Ask the Candidates: Other Topics
Here are the questions submitted by users on other topics, from student loans to presidential signing statements.
2:13 PM ET | 11-20-2007 | permalink
Comments
What would you do as president to restore our Constitutional freedoms that have been negated or compromised by the Bush Administration in the name of security?
We have heard about many specific issues, but being progressives we are concerned about how to move forward as a civilization. What is your vision for America and where do you intend to lead us?
What is your stand on States rights vs Federal responsibility?
Does God want you to be president?
Or, do the people want you to be president?
What is your stand on separation of church and state? And which church?
And Roe V. Wade?
thank you,
fred call
I have a question for all of the candidates except John Edwards, Hillary Clinton, and Barack Obama. It seems a majority of the media coverage for this election is focused on Edwards, Clinton, and Obama. Do you see this as doing a disservice to the voting public in providing information about all of the candidates? Do you think large news corporations have too much power in informing the public to the point of possibly tilting the election in certain candidates favor? What do you think should be done to put more media control in public hands?
WHY is the deepest levels of mathematics missing from the competitivenes science and mathe
bill passed.
Would any preidential candidate support greater supremacy in space
mathematical competitiveness, something
not utilzed by NASA.
Because President Bush has made the precendant that he has the authority to declassify any classified documnents at anytime will you declassify all non-critical documents expediently from his (and both previous Republican Adminstrations as he classifed those when he took office) for the public record. And will you allow the Justice Department to pursue criminal charges against the President and or his administration should they be shown to have violated the law?
To all candidates, and the answer can be one word: Yes or No.
There can be only one nominee for president.
If it is not you, are you willing to run as vice president?
If you are willing to run as vice president, who is your personally preferred running mate?
thank you,
fred call
Traditionally in the United States, public schools have been largely paid for and run at the local level. Since the implementation of the No Child Left Behind act, education has been increasingly controlled at the national level.
Do you agree with this shift? If so, what will you do as president to improve public education? If not, what will you do as president to return control of schools to the state and local governments?
In no particular order, what are the ten most internationally important American cities? (The answer cannot include Des Moines or Manchester.)
Question for Hillary Clinton--Can you guarantee there will be no "bimbo eruptions" in another Clinton presidency?
How should the Supreme court decide the second amendment Heller vs DC case?
Four years ago, John Kerry and John Edwards piled on Howard Dean, just as John Edwards and Barack Obama are doing to Hillary Clinton this year. Kerry and Edwards proved they were adept at running against Democrats; during the campaign they proved inept at running against Republicans. Are Obama and Edwards repeating this?
I make regular campaign contributions to 2 of you.
I am distressed that the Democratic Naitonal Party will not allow any of you to campaign in my state, Michigan, or any other "new" early primary state.
I believe that Michigan's economic, environmental, educational, and health-care problems are emblematic of our nation's most pressing concerns. Our country suffers because the spotlights following you do not illuminate these relevant Michigan issues.
What is your view of the national party's plans to punish the "new" early primary states?
Would you support a primary system that rotates early primary states?
The US has attracted the smartest and the brightest from all around world since the late 80's. With an economy on the verge of a choke and the falling dollar, the US has began discouraging the smart ones to move in.
What would you as a potential candidate do to prevent a brain drain happening in the US?
The framers of the constitution envisioned a system of checks and balances so that no one branch of government would have too much power, but under this administration this system has been abused by assertions of executive power that have gone unchallenged.
Given that Congress is not going to impeach Bush and Cheney in order restore the proper constitutional balance, what will you do to undo the precedent that the current administration has set regarding the "imperial presidency" so that no future president (including yourself) can abuse their power in the same way.
substituting borrowing instead of taxation causes problems when the borrowed money is to be repaid. why does the government borrow money instead of paying the bills through taxation.
WHAT would an presidential hopeful
do if very classified missle silo
launch codes were hacked into and
stolen then soled to terrorist.
WHAT DO YOU PLAN TO DO ABOUT OUR COUNTRY'S EDUCATIONAL SYSTEM? Or will you continue to merely graze the issue by saying "education is very important to me," before moving on to something else?
Questions to the candidates on who votes, who doesn't vote, and how do you reach out to registered and non-registered American citizens of voting age:
It's reported that fifty-five percent of the total voting age population turned out to vote in 2004. According to your research, who are those who did not vote? What are you doing to reach out to the percentage of voting age citizens who did not vote in 2004?
The youth vote demographics, the 18 to 29 year old category, is an illusive category of voters to predict. It is reported there was a spike in the youth vote of 2004. Yet, youth vote statistics point to declines between 1972 and 2004. What are you doing to attract the youth vote?
What are your comments on popular vote compared to electoral college votes?
What are your comments on the redistricting that has transpired over the past two administrations, such as transpired in Texas?
In short, what are your presonal predictions on who will vote in '08 and in what numbers?
thank you,
fred call
If the public or an independent body is not free to examine the code in the electronic voting machines that we vote on before and after elections, and if the companies that make these machines may have their own political preferences or accept contributions from particular candidates or parties, how much confidence do you have that the vote we give is identical to the results we get? And if you ARE confident, what do you have to say to the large percentage of the public that is not?
America's schools are now more segregated than they have been in decades. What is the federal government's role in addressing this issue?
Would people give you good advice, even if their names are publically attached to such advice?
Why do you want to be President?
I am interested in your outlook on vocational education...I have raised 4 sons and still have one at home. Each of them is contributing greatly to their coommunity but not all of them went to college nor should have... it seems that high schools have essentially non existent vocational education available any longer and our society will suffer if this is not changed ~ do you see a need in this area?
A country needs a strong economy to feed and care for its people. But more and more we see the interests of big business--oil, media, defense contractors, lending companies etc.--superseding the interests of lower and middle class Americans. Part of the problem is cost of financing a campaign for public office. What would you do to create more equality?
Are you a happy person?
It is important that the person be happy because unhappy person and an extremely powerful military do not mix.
Does the internet make that much a difference in public opinion during a political election year?
It can be argued that there are more bloggers than stars in the sky, therefor you can't see the sky for the bloggers. For every right wing blogger, there is a left wing blogger. Hence, internet gridlock.
Before the internet, voters made up their minds the old fashioned way: through television, telephone, radio, newspaper and just plain old word of mouth.
When Bill Clinton took office in 1993, the internet was still a relative mystery. By the time George Bush took office eight years later, the internet told the whole story in billion ways.
What, if any in your personal campaign strategies, are the real differences the internet has made? Or, do a good percentage of the voters turn away from the 'internet din'?
Is it possible that the internet can breed apathy created by overexposure of a topic?
Is it possible that the internet can create distrust because anyone can have a blog that can say most anything?
Do you find that Americans who grew up on television and radio still rely on those familiar media outlets?
Does virtual reality threaten to make the office of the presidency more unreal?
thank you,
fred call
With regard to, in my opinion, "Taser-happy" cops, what would you do (and something better be done!!) to reign in the stupidity of these people, and stop the arrogant attitudes of these morons (traffic stop in Utah, Andrew Meyer, etc.) Do we have to start executing cops just so we don't get our civil rights SHREDDED by people who "claim to work for the public"?
What do you do for fun?
We need to know more about the person, not just the policies/plans. I do not want to elect an immoral or untruthful person.
I'm particularly concerned about the seemingly ever-increasing power of the executive branch. Are there times when it is appropriate for a President to invoke "executive privilege" to avoid investigation, Congressional or otherwise?
My question is for all the candidates, but specifically for Sen. Clinton and Edwards. It seems that America is at a crossroads and we face much the same challenge as President Bush did immediately after 9/11: we seem to have the opportunity to unite the nation, or continue with polarizing rhetoric. If elected, how will you bring the nation together?
Would you as president dismantle the office of faith based initiatives?
How would you address and affect the disparity between the rich and the working poor?
As President, one of your first goals will be an attempt to put the country on the right path, and remedy some of the mistakes of your predecessor. To that end, would you CONSIDER issuing pardons to Bush administration officials for crimes against the people of the United States they "committed or may have committed or taken part in" while they were in office?
Saturday (Dec 1st) was World AIDS Day. We recently got news from the UN that the pandemic isn't growing as fast as we thought around the world--meaning the next President might have the chance to take the bold new action that will help turn the tide against the pandemic. What is your plan on AIDS around the world? What about here at home?
Given that much of America's technological edge can be traced directly back to the space program, and that China, with it's questionable human rights record, is now planning on MATCHING our achievements in space, what will you do to assure that NASA, one of smallest government organizations, has the funding it needs to keep the US squarely in the lead? Keep in mind that the current NASA annual budget is roughly the same as what we're spending every two months in Iraq, and that even using the estimates of NASA's critics we could have sent manned missions to Mars for far less than the current price tag of the war.
What would you do to correct the problems of slow determination (up to 3yrs), fraud, and obviously uneducated opinions in the granting of disability? There are people who have paid for years into the program only to face losing their homes while waiting while those who have been in the country a limited time are being granted payments. Why should this be considered fair?
What do you believe the role of government should be?
Ron Paul Has submitted legislation to repeal the 16th Amendment ( IRS & it's tax), as H.J.Res. 23. Yet no one seems interested in giving to the low end workers even 1% of the tax relief that is "granted" to bigger business. Would you endorse this measure and work towards its passage, whether you win what you are seeking here today, or continue in your elected office?
And, if you are the nominee of your party, would you invite the Libertarian & other 3rd party/ non-party, president candidate(s), to debate you and the Republican "winner", of thier primary?
Mrs. Clinton, do you consider the statement attributed to Voltaire -- "I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it" -- to be a cornerstone of western civilization. And if so, would you defend to the death the New York Times, for example, if it were to publish cartoons of Muhammed? As commander in chief, would you pledge our troops to do the same? Please answer without using the word "but." Just a yes or no. Thank you.
What would you do to increase understanding between religions? How would you encourgage inter-faith communication?
Assuming you could not vote for yourself, which candidate would you vote for in the 2008 Presidential Election and WHY would you vote for that candidate?
Given that education is, in my opinion, the most important thing a society can do to preserve and expand its prosperity, what will you do to ensure America doesn't fall any further behind other developed (and even some developing) nations? Furthermore, do you think the federal government can do a better job at this by investing in areas of science, technology, and the arts rather than simply mandating how schools should be?
"With overwhelming bipartisan support, Rep. Jane Harman???s ???Violent Radicalization and Homegrown Terrorism Prevention Act??? passed the House 404-6 late last month and now rests in Sen. Joe Lieberman???s Homeland Security Committee. Swift Senate passage appears certain."
To all the candidates: Any comment will be accepted.
Also, in your opinion, what differences were made in congress after the most recent midterm elections?
thank you,
fred call
Friends, Many millions of Americans, and other millions throughout the world, believe that GW Bush has damaged our domestic framework of checks and balances as well as our international standing. What measures will the Democratic presidential candidates' undertake to reverse and correct the actions (taken place over the past eight years) of Mr. Bush, the vice-president, et. al? Two examples: How will mainstream science be restored to all federal agencies? How will Christian inroads and evangelical thought be purged from the same agencies? Thanks!
thad davis, Kendrick, ID
Politicians (on all levels) spend a lot of their time and the taxpayers' time soliciting campaign funds to stay in office/power. What is your stance comprehensive campaign finance reform, including caps on spending and contributions, at the national and state level; and/or full public financing of elections to remove undue influence in future political campaigns.
The boycott of Hamas and the closing of Gaza's border by Israel has caused severe unemployment, hunger, and other misery to the people of Gaza. The shortage of electricity to pump water is affecting the sewer system and creating a threat to public health. Because Israel bars even ink and paper from entering, school textbooks cannot be printed. As president what steps would you take to alleviate the suffering of the Palestinian people and bring about an end to the occupation -- as called for by U.N. Security Council Resolutions 242 and 338?
In order to comply with the World Trade Organization mandates, the United States of America must comply with legislation that restricts Americans' rights to effective, over-the-counter amounts of supplements and vitamins. This is a violation of our health freedom, or our right to choose what we wish to do with our bodies.
Do you think it's right for the World Trade Organization to impose its laws on a Sovereign Nation and it's will on a free people?
If not, what do you plan on doing about it?
What are your opinions regarding Fair Trade agreements and the outsourcing of US jobs and industry?
What are your opinions on abortion?
What are your opinions regarding laws requiring fair health, wage, and employment standards for workers form countries receiving free trade advantages from the US?
What are your opinions regarding industrial production capabilities in the US?
What is your opinion on US military and financial support for Israel and how it may be impacting attitudes toward the US among Muslims?
What is your opinion on the special interest groups, lobbyists and the ability of political donations to influence the behavior and platforms of political candidates.
WHAT is the next presidents worst
hacker nightmare.
Last year two professors, John Mearsheimer (of the Univ of Chicago) and Stephen Walt (of Harvard) published a book critical of the power the Israel Lobby has in the US. They, along with others contend that our unconditional support of Israel and its policies have done disservice to both us and Israel. One example they gave was the pressure that the lobby put on the US government to invade Iraq. Do you think it's possible that the Israel lobby has too much sway in American politics?
If you were president on 9/11 what would you have done differently?
We are in a world wide economy now. Our products are not world ready unless they are metric and our students must learn both British and metric systems. Do you think it is time that the US seriously start a transition over the the Metric System.
I, like Lou Dobbs, think corporate influence actually control all government policies and functions, and if we can keep them from influencing government, most of the issues that face our nation would be solved. What would do you think of Lou Dobbs, and if he ran for president?
The greatest human rights issue in our nation today is the sexual and physical abuse of children. Child pornography has become a multi-billion dollar global industry. What have you done, and will you do, to protect our most vulnerable and voiceless citizens?
Congress has become increasingly ineffectual at solving the nation's many problems. Attempts at compromise are often thwarted by voter opposition to representatives who might otherwise be willing to seek accomodation with the opposing party. To what degree, if any, do you attribute failures to compromise to gerrymandering and the creation of highly partisan voting districts? Do we need national standards for determining the drawing district boundaries?
What limits should there be on executive power? How constitutional is the use of Bush of signing statements? How do you propose to re-establish habeus corpus? What needs to happen to make FISA work effectively without being a mere formality?
We seem unable to move forward on any issue becuase politics has become more important than issues. Neither party seems able to put aside name calling and postering. What do you think you can do as President to repair this damage and help the us move forward as a nation, regardless of our variety of views?
If your administration finds evidence of illegal activity commited by members of the current and previous administration. Will you work to bring them to justice, yes or no?
If yes, how and to what extent?
If no, why not?
The United States Supreme Court has accepted review of the District of Columbia Circuit Court of Appeals decision holding that the Second Amendment to the United Sates Constitution guarantees citizens a personal right to own firearms. The Circuit Court of Appeals rejected arguments that the right is only a collective one. If you were President, would you, on behalf of the government, weigh in arguing that the right under the Second Amendment is a personal right or a collective right.
If you contend that the right is collective only, how do you distinguish the Second Amendment reference to the right of "the people" from identical references to "the people" in the First and Fourth amendments, both of which have been held to be personal rights.
I would like to hear Hilliary speak on the use of signing statements as a Presidential right to alter legislation without public knowledge. Would she use them as President and why would they be necessary?
Please name one thing you think the federal government does well - besides spending.
When appointing Supreme Court justices, will you favor those who will protect and defend:
1. Precedents from prior decisions?
2. Precedents from other countries?
3. Your personal political opinions?
4. The written Constitution as amended?
5. Other issues?
Do you believe that a monopoly is OK so long as it is a government monopoly for the education and indoctrination of our children?
What, if anything, would you do to reinstate our constitutional republic and get rid of the democracy which our country's founders rejected in Article 4, Section 4?
The Ninth Amendment states, "The enumeration in the Constitution, of certain rights, shall not be construed to deny or disparage others retained by the people." Do you support the use of that authority to allow individual citizens to carry guns regardless of any alleged ambiguity in the Second Amendment?
If you were not running, who would you vote for and why?
Do you have any creative ideas on how to develop/support families in our country? Since stable and healthy family life is THE foundation of of a stable and healthy society, why isn't this (targeting the family) considered an effective way to go about solving so many of our problems, e.g, educational failure, crime, drug use, child abuse, welfare, mental illness, just to name a few! We need a license to drive a car, but to marry and produce children requires absolutely no education, training, or governmental regulation whatsoever. We don't want to take away individual's liberties but there must be ways that could be developed by intelligent people of helping citizens form and maintain healthy family relationships. Is this issue anywhere on your radar screen?
As president, what will you do to correct the wrong-doings of the previous administration to restore the People's faith in their government?
Will your administration relinquish the powers the previous administration has taken for itself in order to restore the checks and balances?
Will your administration demand the previous administration be held accountable for any and all crimes they may have committed?
Will you [candidate] limit the growth of corporate ownership of the media to assure a mainstream media that is truly independent? Or do you support corporations owning a combination of newspapers and radio and TV?
During this Administration's first six years in office, I don't believe the Democratic minority almost never forced the Republican majority to invoke cloture. Now that the Republicans are in the minority, they have practically paralyzed the Democratically led Senate. How would a Democratic majority of five or six allow passage of bills for you to sign?
Question for the debate:
What is abortion; and if you are "personally" opposed to abortion, please state why.
In view of the history of government abuses that led to the formation of our country and the provisions in our "living document" Constitution, why would you even consider trying "to restore the People's faith in [the huge and invasive de-mob-ocracy] government" our republic has degenerated
How do you justify this government's current policy toward Cuba in light of the UN's near unanimous vote against the sanctions?
Knowing that the achievement gap exists at the kindergarten door and that the foundation for learning occurs from birth to three, what will you do as presiden to ensure that each child reaches her/his full potential?
My 30 second question is available on YouTube:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8WYR1qXnO2M
Here is the text:
I want to hear your definition of freedom, because freedom is what we claim to stand for in the world.
It disturbs me that President Bush calls his foreign policy doctrine the Freedom Agenda when it looks like he's doing more to set back the cause than advance it.
Freedom must mean very different things to different people. So, what does freedom mean to you, and how would you promote it?
It used to be said that America was the leader of the free world. What definition of freedom would your Presidency represent? What definition of freedom should endure?
Polls show that the majority of Americans feel that relations with Cuba should be normalized and that travel and trade restrictions should be loosened, if not eliminated. As President, what would your position be with respect to normalizing relations with Cuba and allowing trade and travel?
I'd like to know the criteria that each presidential candidate would use to pick a VP running mate.
I really want to know what pair of candidates on the stage would be an unbeatable combination in Nov 08...but understand that would be hard to get into at this point. Maybe your political commentators could take a shot at that.
This country seems to be more and more divided according to income disparities, and now that seems to be happening in the public transportation system. My question is, "Do you think that there should be special roads or lanes for people who can pay more, while the rest of us are stuck in traffic on public roads? Do you think there should be special lines through airport security for those who travel first class compared to the rest of us? Is it right to have government, e.g. TSA, supporting such a system?
Question for Sen. Clinton,
When 2008 rolls around, we will have had 16 years of polarizing presidents who have managed to divide the nation into red and blue. Given your polling data and your association with one of these past presidents, do you feel that you can avoid continuing that trend? Specifically how can you be a unifying president that brings America back together?
For decades, the war on drugs has drained national coffers, led to the incarceration of millions of nonviolent offenders, and brought havoc to America's inner cities. It seems hardly a day goes by without another innocent American witnessing his or her home invaded by heavily armed police in another botched raid--sometimes resulting in casualties. Should we persist in the war on drugs as it has been waged since the 1970's, or do we need to rethink our approach? How would you change our federal drug policy?
Do you feel the use of signing statements by the president are legal and ethical, and would you continue this practice if you were president?
A METATOPICAL QUESTION FOR THE CANDIDATES:
WHAT DO YOU FEEL IS THE MOST IMPORTANT ISSUE OF THE DAY (AND WHY AND/OR HOW WOULD YOU ADDRESS IT)?
Under your Administration, would US agricultural sales to Cuba from Iowa and other states be expanded by following normal international trade practices or face the same bureaucratic obstacles imposed by the Bush Administration to undermine the intent of Congress?
As the mom of a one year old son I am very concerned about the toxic chemicals that lace many toys and other products sold in America. These chemical agents cause cancer, birth defects and genetic damage. Unlike the European Union, the US does nothing to limit the use of these agents and does not require that the toxic ingredients are listed. If you are elected president, what changes will you make to ensure my son will be able to grow up free from these frightening dangers?
Lately I hear more and more about everyday toxicity and much of what I hear is that the US isn't regulating for consumer safety the way the EU is. Our government has been less able to stand up to big business to protect its citizenry from chemicals we now know are hazardous. What would you do to effect greater consumer protections? How would you deal with corporate interests generally?
How do the candidates view the many topics NPR hosts bring to our attention, such as: having America follow the E. U. and ban toys, plastics and cosmetics that contain harmful; carcinogenic; lead, and any substance known to be a danger to human health?
I don't want to hear any more talk on how or when we will pull out of war zones. I want to hear what they will do quickly to beef up America's protection here at home. what will they do immediately, to help Americans on American soil. Focus on the home land and not overseas where others don't want us.
What will they do to bolster health care and bolster the Gi- Bill so it takes care of those who place their lives in harms way or who die! ?
As a Democratic president, the Republicans in the House and Senate are going to do everything in their power to stop your programs, deadlock the government, and make your presidency fail. They will also seek to impeach you, if they have the votes in Congress to bring a bill of impeachment after the 2008 or 2010 elections. How will you counter this "permanent campaign?"
A tremendous number of socially-conscious voters are lost to the Republicans due to the single issue of gun ownership. Would you eliminate gun control from the Democratic agenda if that was what voters wanted and it meant a solid majority of Americans would then vote Democrat?
Despite claims by the Bush administration that the employment rate is high and constantly growing, many of these new jobs are in the lower echelon of skill set and earning potential. This is partly due to companies deciding to take their offices to other countries where the rate of pay is much lower. Would you seek to lure American companies back State-side so that REAL job growth would be possible? How about initiatives for Americans to BUY AMERICAN?
Women's reproductive freedoms are being threatened across the board, with the appointment of people like Susan Orr to the National Family Planning Office and more and more pharmacies, hospitals and doctors refusing to provide women with Emergency Contraceptives and even basic birth control.
My question is, what will you do to safeguard these rights and provide people with education and access to birth control both for medical and family planning purposes?
Thank you.
The cost of a college education has sky rocketed in the U.S. over the past decade. Would you do anything to help make higher education more affordable to middle and lower class families? Moreover, would you consider making the entire cost of college (tuition, room and board, and books) fully tax deductible?
The Bush administration has shown blatant disregard for the Constitution and has clearly violated the law in several areas.
1 . Why hasn't congress moved forward with impeachment proceedings?
2. If you were to become president, would you actively pursue prosecution of the Bush administration regarding these matters and renounce the horrible precedents set by this administration?
The "E" word (experience) seems to be a very popular concept to discuss among all candidates regardless of political affiliation. As no one other than an incumbent president running for a second term has ANY experience for this most unique job, my question is: Will all candidates refrain from citing experience for the job as a "plus" when in fact no one currently running has any experience for this most unique job, and instead, use this otherwise wasted time to discuss the important issues, such as but not limited to the war, energy, health care, education, social security, medicare, medicaid, the economy and scores of other items infinitely more important than the verbal diarrhea produced by claims of experience?
Should the Constitution be amended to require all states electoral votes to be cast in the same proportion as the popular vote? Why or Why Not.
The Constitution does not give the Supreme Court of the United States the power to declare laws passed by Congress unconstitutional. It was established by the Court itself in the case of Manbury vs Madison. Should this self-assigned power of the Supreme Court be curtailed? Why or Why Not
Do you believe the power of President as Commander in Chief trumps the rule of law, for example Habeus Corpus. If so, at what point do those powers end?
Which approach is most compassionate:
1. Voting for the IRS to force everyone at gunpoint to contribute to the charitable organization of your choice?
2. Voluntarily contributing to the charity of your choice and trying to persuade everyone that it is effective and well-managed?
3. Other?
Article 2 of the Constitution states that the Vice President is part of the Executive Branch of government. The current Vice President has muddied this interpretation. Which branch of government do you feel is the appropriate role for the Vice President?
Some fear that the checks and balances set up by the constitution for the 3 branches of government are in jeopardy. Do you think this is so. Why or Why Not
Under a congressional declaration of war the President traditionally has exercised additional powers deemed critical for the safety and well being of the country. How is this reconciled for a war of ideals and how will you determine when the ???war on terror??? is over?
The Bush/Cheney Administration has ruthlessly pushed the limits in exercising executive power beyond what the framers of our constitution envisioned. It has said it will not enforce or execute provisions of laws Congress has enacted and the president has signed, and it has committed our country to a war while essentially denying Congress's primary role in making that decision. In your view, what is the role of a president in the constitutional order? How will you restore the proper constitutional order of the republic while resisting the temptation to use extra-constitutional means to get your way when thwarted by Congress or the Supreme Court in the exercise of their proper responsibilities?
For candidates currently serving as U.S. Senators. I often hear you commenting on your strong voting records. Why is it that none of you provide a link to your voting record on your websites so that the average American voter can easily view how you have voted on legislation? Thank you.
This election season has seen countless different debates and debate formats. You've gotten your questions from "professionals" and from the popular websites. This question is for each candidate, if you were creating a debate for yourself and your fellow democrats, how would you structure it and why?
George W. Bush...Great president, or greatest president?
Should the constitution be amended to require all state electoral votes be cast in direct proportion to the popular vote? Why or why not?
What are some new innovative ideas in how to positivity engage and empower Americans?
What are your ideas on how to "bring Americans together?"
President Bush has helped to bring about huge expansions to presidential power and privacy, while simultaneously limiting the oversight of these new powers. Would you work to restore more presidential transparency, knowing that it would lessen and limit your own powers; or do you believe as President Bush does that such power and privacy are necessary to winning the War on Terror?
With 1 out of 155 Childern in America diagnosed with Autism, what will you do as president to help the families of these childern. Also what can america do as a country to fight Austism as it becomes more of an issue.
As someone in my early 20s, I don't feel that candidates care very much about reaching out to young voters (though I feel Mr. Obama is a welcome exception to this). Why do you think that so many young voters feel distanced from politics, what can we do better to become more engaged, and why should we vote for you?
Who is your favorite Muppet and why?
Comcast is and other internet providers might stop us from visiting sites we would like to visit and have us see the sites the people who pay them visit.
This is a world without Net Neutrality.
Here's an example close to your hearts. Your opponent pays several Internet Service Providers to not allow subscribers to see your website.
Is this constitutional? If congress said it wasn't, would you sine a bill legalizing it?
The magazines are awash these days in articles about a resurgent evangelical perspective on the left. It seems that more and more Democratic candidates are becoming comfortable with the idea of revealing their faith perspectives. Others would rather keep their faith to themselves and out of public scrutiny. Do you think the American people deserve to know how your faith might influence your actions and policy decisions as president? If so, why? If not, why not?
In view of important advances made in gender equality, would you support a change in Selective Service regulations to require young women to register for the draft as do our young men? Please explain your answer.
Ask each candidate to name one strength of each of his/her opponents.
I think this would show how each candidate can find the positive in others.
FOR EACH CANDIDATE: As a candidate for the DEMOCRATIC Party's nomination, will you commit yourself now to actively campaign for the candidates eventually nominated/chosen to run for President and Vice-President? If so, how do you reconcile it with the attacks you have conducted and are conducting against your fellow democrats?
Given this Administration's expansion of secrecy rules, Presidential privelege, signing statements,and centralization of power through FISA, the Patriot Act and the Military Commissions Act, will you do anything to reverse these precedents and laws?
Will you commit to giving the more than half a million residents of the District of Columbia voting representation in the House of Representatives and eventually full representation by two Senators? If not, why do you think D.C residents are undeserving of full representation in the Congress?
The US has moved to institutionalizing politcally correct speech. Some universities have gone so far as requiring the reporting of incorrect speech and attendance at reconditioning classes for offenders. Do you believe that enforcing politically correct speech is good for a respectful society or does it restrict open and valuable discourse
As a special education teacher who is working hard to teach my students the reading skills they need, I am deeply concerned that their progress is being measured by one test score. What would you do to reform the "No Child Left Behind Act"?
Will you sign the international Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities?
I have a question for Senator Barack Obama. What is your response to those that claim you lack enough experience to be President?
If you are elected, will you ratify the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) on behalf of the US, and if so, what is the timeline we can expect (eg: within 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, etc.)? Thank you.
Given recent DNA evidence vindicating convicts on death row it is evident that with or without DNA, the state has been executing innocent individuals. What is your position on the death penalty?
This is a subject that has not been raised at any previous debate. And yet it is at the heart of all the issues. The question is would the candidate support and encourage legislation that would mandate public financing for congressional elections and support efforts to reform the presidential election public financing system?
Senators and Congressmen don't pay Social Security taxes, have their own medical plan, and have exempted themselves from the property seizure laws they've passed in recent years. If elected President, what will you do to reverse these and similar special treatment plans so that our elected officials are treated the same as other citizens and not as an elected aristocracy?
Do you plan to sign the International Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities? And, if so, how promptly after becoming president?
A question for any and all candidates: Would you continue to use federal power to thwart the will of states that have allowed medical uses of marijuana?
In your current legislative role why have you not been more forceful in exercising the authority and responsibility given to your legislative body by the Constitution? The House continues to fund the war. Congress daintily refuses to accuse or hold responsible current and former executive branch officials. And impeachment is off the table.
On ID theft:
I am consistently asked for my Social Security number for things unrelated to taxes and employment: at doctors' offices, to rent an apartment, to get cable service, and even to rent a video. There are no laws that I know of that will protect me from theft of that information if it is poorly guarded. I even called the Social Security Administration and was told that anyone can require my SS number for any reason, and can refuse to do business with me if I refuse to provide it.
Isn't it time to separate our Social Security information from private business transactions? Why can't I, with proper documentation, obtain a separate credit ID number which could be changed if my ID is stolen, leaving my Social Security information intact? And if you don't think that will work, what do you propose?
This question is for all of the Democratic candidates. Do you believe that the United States of America should change current administration policy and support the the International Criminal Court, why or why not?
The president has signed many laws into being along with a signing statement that basically says he won't enforce the very same law he just signed. Do you agree with this president's expansion of powers and if not, what measures will you take to permanently roll back the precedent he seems to be trying to set for an executory president?
Many people consider large campaign contributions nothing short of legalized bribes. ???Generous??? donors clearly have more access to elected officials than others who don???t have the ability to give thousands of dollars to one ??? or more ??? candidates. That leverage has killed past efforts at health care reform and will make meaningful progress on global warming much more difficult. If the Democratic Party supposedly represents ???the rest of us,??? what are YOU doing NOW to change this system, and what would you do if you are elected?
Would you be willing to end some executive privileges to prevent future presidents from abusing their power in the way that George Bush has done with signing statements and the like, even though this would potentially limit your own power?
Do you think there has been a subtle erosion of American freedoms in the last 7 years, an ignoring of the Constitution, using fear for political purposes, much like what happened in Germany in the past, and what would you do to correct this?
As a canidate do you have a responsibilty to the American people to weigh in on the proposed FCC rule changes of MEDIA CROSS-OWNERSHIP? Is this serving the public interest, I think not.
I can't vote for any candidate who will not say the pledge of allegiance to the United States...loud and proud. Does any of you have reservations to saying it? Explain.
What qualifies you to be Commander-in-Chief?
Is it in the best interest of the nation for members of the same two families to be elected to the most powerful post in our government for two decades (and counting...)?
What constraints should be placed on the federal government's ability to eavesdrop on the communications of US citizens?
All of you have come out staunchly pro-choice. In your view, is there any room for pro-life Democrats in the Democratic Party? If so, what is it? If not, why not?
As President, you will oversee many federal agencies with a wide range of administrative powers. The policies that these agencies make through regulations affect citizens as much as laws made by Congress. As a result, many business and social issue interest groups lobby agencies as well as Congress. As President, you will set the direction for these agencies. In whose interest should agency regulations be made - in the interest of those deemed to be most "affected" by the rule? Or by a determination of a general "public interest'? Or a balance between the two?
Economic Self-Sufficiency ... Of the 93 million American adults identified as being in need of basic skills according to a recent study, over six million work full time but continue to live in poverty. For these workers, limited basic skills or limited English proficiency often keeps them from becoming self-sufficient. What steps will you take to ensure that workers have the opportunity to improve their literacy skills, get a high school diploma, and continue their education?
Foundations are the most significant criteria for selecting a leader. What spiritual basis do you have for your life? What absolute values do you hold? Is there an authority higher than your own intellect that helps you make decisions?
There has been outrage expressed about the current administration's expansion of executive power. Which of these excesses, e.g. signing statements, commander-in-chief rules, would you renounce in your first week of office?
I am an African American 30 year veteran Inner City Public School Teacher.
a recent study done by Dr. James A. Crupi shows the following statistics. Our drop out rate is 51%, 25 % of our population live in households at or below 100 % of the Federal poverty level,( i.e. below $20,650 annually), absenteeism rate is 26%, We have the highest teenage pregnancy rate in the metro area; 74 % of the students receive free or reduced lunch.
I work in a community where all seven community problems involving youth are rated as ???very serious???. These include: Violence on TV, lack of affordable and quality child care, lack of after school supervision, and alcohol and other illegal drug use by children.
I want to know what do you plan to do, if elected, about the educational needs and solving these problems of our inner city school children , How will you bring hope and opportunities to millions of children who seem to have lost all hope and faith in this country?
Sincerely
David L. Franklin
Richmond Virginia
If you could lead any country in the world, other than America, which one would you choose and why?
17 states - including New Hampshire and South Carolina - have passed legislation against complying with the federal Real ID Act, calling it a back-door national ID. Do you support a national ID card and, as President, would you enforce the Real ID Act in the face of so much opposition?
My Question is to Hillary Clinton. Senator Clinton, are you a christian? IF you answer yes, then you are aware of the fact that the bible says " when a man and a woman get married, they become one;" As a christian, therefore...while you were married to former president Clinton, you were one. This means you have been president of the United States of America twice. This makes you ineligible to run for president. My question to you now is " why are you running for president? if you are a christian and believe in christian marriages as being one with the husband?"
Should you not be the successful nominee and sequentially the next President, would you take an executive level position if/when asked within the new Cabinet?
It seems to me that for quite a long time now, we've gone to bed each night a little less free than the night before, and I don't believe that this erosion of liberty and privacy are justified by the need for security or to protect our children from the monsters that may be stalking them. Do you agree, and what would you do to reverse the erosion in our personal freedoms?
The GWBush administration under Karl Rove's direction has gone to unprecedented lengths to control the President's image in the news media. He implemented new techniques to enforce everyone to be "on message." At public events for GWB, only verified supporters were allowed to attend. My question is: would your administration use similar tactics or would your administration be more open?
When elected, what is your intent regarding the use of presidential signing statements? Would you revoke any of the Bush signing statements?
Governor Richardson -
You are the only Democratic candidate that has governed a state, and you were re-elected in a swing state by the largest majority in that state's history;
As a former United States Ambassador to the United Nations and foreign envoy, you are the only Democratic candidate with hands-on foreign policy experience;
As Bill Clinton's Energy Secretary, you are the only Democratic candidate to have run a federal agency;
As a Member of Congress for 14 years, where you rose high in the Democratic leadership, you have almost as much Congressional experience as Senators Clinton and Obama and former Senator Edwards combined;
Given all that, what explanation do you have for why your candidacy appears to be lingering in fourth place?
The human condition is essentially tragic, yes or no, please expand.
How come today's presidents are being elected with only 51% of the vote? Don't we have leaders any more? Are we headed towards a two state solution to our problems?
My family and I live in the District of Columbia. The State of Montana, which has a population smaller than ours, has a full congressional delegation that votes on our future. Wyoming also provided our current vice president. Territories like Puerto Rico have no representation, but they do not pay income taxes as we do. What will you do to rectify this unfair "taxation without representation" situation?
As a middle class American I believe that America's number one problem today is this: We are being held hostage by countries who do not like us because of our dependancy on foreign oil. These countries are buying up large portions of our country. If a president would stand up to big oil and car companies and say that in 5 years we would not be dependant on foreign oil then we would have a chance for survival. If we would invest in technology to make this happen then we would see a different world. Do you place a high priority on solving the energy problem? Do you have guts enough to do this? Do you think that this is important?
Over the last few years, many Democrats have rightfully objected to the unprecedented expansion of executive power committed by the Bush Administration. As president, what do you promise to do to reverse this expansion of power and restore reasonable limits on all subsequent administrations, including your own?
We see too much self-promotion amongst our state and national leaders today. It seems to me that a mark of true leadership has to do with being promoting national interests above personal ambitions. With this in mind, my question is: Which of your fellow candidates on this stage is most qualified to be our next president and why? (please don't insert how you'd be better or how anyone would be better than George Bush or another Republican! I really want to know who you admire in the Democratic field and why!?!)
sacrificial to the point of promoting the good of the nation above personal gain
This is a question for Senator Clinton. During Bush's presidency, his critics, including you and many of the candidates onstage, have denounced his refusal to take responsibilty for his mistakes and errors in judgment. This campaign season, you have refused to apologize for your vote supporting the Iraq war, claiming instead that you were misled by the administration. On a much smaller scale, you shrugged off the claim by a waitress that your campaign did not leave her tip. You also shrugged off evidence that your campaign has been planting individuals in audiences with Clinton-friendly questions. If you are not willing to take responsibility for your big mistakes (Iraq) OR your small mistakes (tips and plants), how are we to believe that you'll be any different than George Bush when it comes to accountability?
There is more and more mention of the Republican Play book, which is, as far as I can see, a personal attack manual pumped up daily and distributed to bloggers, hosts and other media. Many of us are concerned about how each candidate, especially Mrs. Clinton, will be able to deal with the relentless allegations, talk radio attacks, spin and innuendoes. Some say that Mrs. Clinton will be a lightening rod of hostility, and bring more republican voters out, although each candidate will probably attract their own customized playbook strategy.
What is your strategy to defend your campaign against the torrent of hostility and half truths?
Question for all candidates: If, for any reason, you could not be the candidate, which of the other announced candidates do you feel would be the best president? This question is intended to by-pass any consideration of electability. Assume that your choice will serve as President. The question is posed now, but you will not be asked to respond at this time. Sometime later in the program each candidate will be asked to give the answer to this question in the form of a single name, with no discussion.
I've always wished this would get asked:
Many of the candidates are people of faith, in particular the Christian faith.
Question: Does your faith teach that anyone who doesn't accept Christ as the savior will go to "hell." And, if so, do you subscribe to that part of your faith.
Thank you for considering this question.
I am a senior in high school currently applying to colleges. My family makes enough money to be considered in the "middle class", but due to several payments we have to make, we see almost none of it. In the past 5 years tuition rates have exploded, topping $50,000 in many instances. The very rich can pay these costs and the very poor are allotted huge amounts of federal aid via the FAFSA, but millions of middle class citizens can no longer afford to go to college. My question is, under your administration, how will YOU make college an option again for the millions of middle class Americans like me who have been forgotten by our government?
To all candidates: If you were sure you had a lock on the nomination but NOT the election, would you still run or would you give your party the best chance possible to regain the presidency?
look around the stage these are some of the brightest minds in the United States, will you as President ask the others to join your cabinet to listen to the American people and to work with both parties for a better America and a safer world.
There's been a lot of talk of belief and faith in the public statements of candidates from both major parties. People can believe anything, but they may not be in touch with reality. How does your faith guide you in your actions, and how would you distinguish real results from an appeal to fear?
As a teacher in a public middle school, I have seen a growing reliance on state standardized testing. More and more, curriculums in schools are changed to reflect these tests, and teachers have been forced to "teach to the test". Please tell me, in practical terms, how we can fix the ailing system of "No Child Left Behind" and actually reach the goal of making sure every child recieves an adequate if not exemplary education?
Sent by Arrey Ashu: As a christian, therefore...while you were married to former president Clinton, you were one. This means you have been president of the United States of America twice.
I vote this the most imaginative post I've ever read on this blog. This is absolutely a thought that never, ever occured to me.
Maybe it's because I'm Buddhist. I don't know. But this is about as imaginative a thought as any I've seen around here. One that I will pass around to my colleagues with due deliberation and energy.
Thank you, you made my day. And I'm not kidding. That was great!
fred call
I work in health care, where privacy is a big and growing issue, and one that intersects with privacy of financial information. Would you favor enacting a presumptive right to ownership for an individual's own information? Europe seems to be moving in this direction, and it puts the burden of protection on the corporations who hold the information.
Who are your largest 3 campaign contributors? Please include the company/industry they earn their paycheck from.
Thank You
Many Democrats in the South, Midwest, and Rocky Mountain region have expressed distress about how the Democratic nominee might impact races down the ticket in 2008. If you were given proof that your candidacy would actually hurt these state parties and their down-ticket candidates, would you reconsider your decision to run? Why or why not?
Would you consider a first step in bringing much needed relief and respect back to our nation's public school teachers by forgiving all educational loans for those who have served ten years or more in such school systems? What other ideas do you have on ways to retain and attract qualified persons to such careers?
Mr Edwards and Ms Clinton had an exchange about the importance of getting rid of 'no chance' candidates during debates.
Actually, I think that is rather insulting to the voters. What is so horrible about third parties? Is it not true that the Green Party so many democrats reviled in 2000 has basically been co-opted to the point that even Republicans are trying to talk about global warming now?
What are you going to do to open up the political process to fringe candidates?
In the past winning the presidential election has been a popularity contest yet the vast majority of American's didn't vote. The next presidential hopeful must get disenfranchised voters to the polls in mass to win the general election. How do you as the nominee plan to get your constituents to the polls to make their voices heard and more importantly, what previously unrecognized issues will motivate this half of our country to vote in this election?
This question is for Senator Dodd.
You???ve said that, while there are those who say America???s best days are behind her, you remain optimistic that her best days are ahead. I want to agree with you, but I???m scared. This country needs deep- and long-reaching, long-term changes in the figurative infrastructure of our politics, our economy, and our role on the world stage, and those changes will take a long time to complete. If they are not made, I???m scared that we will wake up one day to find that the pessimists were right. Solving the problems of today ??? ending the war, weathering the mortgage crisis ??? is not enough. What will you do, Senator, to begin the process of making these fundamental changes. I believe this is the single most important question of not only this, but the next five or ten presidential elections.
Joseph Avins (pronounced with a long 'A')
Kearneysvillee, WV (pronounced like 'Car-neysville')
In our political system, money grants access and voice, at least in the very powerful form of lobbying. In the last several decades judicial decisions have granted many of the rights and privileges of individuals to corporations but few of the responsibilities. Add the tremendous amounts of money spent by corporations to influence the political process and given that corporations are not people, and so don't operate under the same moral forces at work between people, we have seen significant harms accrue to regular people as a cost of "doing business." What would you do to repair the harmful imbalance that privileges corporate interest above the interests of individuals and even our society as a whole?
to all candidates: How do they feel about banning certain substances in our food and other things that are banned in Europe, such as phthalates, lead in lipstick, etc. Why are we so far behind Europe in our food safety?
What would you do as president to restore the constitutional checks and balances between the three branches or government? What would you do to safeguard and restore our civil liberities?
(this is a simplified version of a question I submitted earlier - in the hopes that it will be better understood and perhaps selected).
Do you believe that it is most important for government decisions to be based on the wishes of those that are the most affected by the specific decision? Or do you believe that decisions should be guided by a general public interest, even if that means not meeting all the needs of specific interests?
The U.S. Constitution puts the majority of power in the hands of Congress, granting presidents only limited powers, such as the powers to veto and to pardon. But over the past century, without any constitutional changes, presidents have come to dominate the American government. Presidents now effectively declare war, declare laws unconstitutional (via signing statements/by refraining from enforcing them) and legislate (via the regulatory power of executive agencies). What actions would you take to restore the checks and balances in the Constitution--for yourself and your successors in the presidency?
To all candidates: What qualities and skill will you be looking for in your selection of a vice president? What role will your vice president play in your administration? Do any of your other democrats running for president have the qualities and skills that you are looking for?
Some people believe the unprecedented use of ???Signing Statements??? by President Bush has subverted the will of Congress and dramatically strengthened the Executive branch beyond what the framers of the Constitution envisioned when they considered the ???checks and balances??? of our federal system.
If you become president, do you plan to continue the use of Singing Statements to further increase presidential power?
OR
Do you agree that this Administration has exceeded its authority with its use of Signing Statements? If so, what would you do restore a proper balance between the Legislative and Executive branches of government?
You are currently seeking the Democratic Party's nomination for President. What vision does the Democratic Party offer for our nation and how will you work to advance that vision if you are not the party's nominee? And, please no talking points!
What would you as president do to unite this country? We are badly divided, and need someone who can bring us (and Congress) together.
It seems like presidential debates spend a lot of time arguing issues that don't matter much once the candidate is sworn in? For example, during Bush Gore we heard endless debate on the lock box and little about terrorism or global warming. What are we spending a lot of time on now that will mean little by next year? What aren't we discussing that will very likely be a key issue in 2009?
Please discuss your understanding of the development of, the structure and function of, and the current impact of the military-industrial complex on the daily lives of American citizens and on the government of the U.S.
If we have learned anything from recent administrations, it is that the tough issues that face the United States of America require bipartisan solutions. We have experienced an ongoing stalemate on the most pressing issues of our day. Though everyone talks about bipartisanship, that typically breaks down when real compromise is necessary. Are you willing to compromise on issues that are dear to your heart (and the hearts of your voters) to get at solutions? Can you give an example of how you have done this in the past?
Who would win in a fight, the Hulk or the Thing?
I would strongly second Nancy Horton's question about checks and balances of Pres. power--I think this would be a great reflection on my sense of what they offer.
What do you believe is flawed in the "No Child Left Behind" Act and how do you propose to remedy these flaws?
- Andrew Miller
Seattle, Washington
Sent by Anton Goldman: Who would win in a fight, the Hulk or the Thing
It went two out of three, thanks to the managerial talents of Don King...and in the third fight, both fighters succumbed to heat exhaustion in the ninth round.
fred call
What is your postion on Impeachment Now of presidents Cheney & Bush for the treasonous outing of a CIA officer, perjury to USA citizens on Iraq, War Crimes, torture and degradation of our Constitution?
It has been argued that the interest in science, technology, and mathematics generated by NASA's Apollo program is strongly correlated to the biotechnology and microcomputer boom of the 1970s-1990s.
Please describe your vision for the nation's space program and how we might inspire current students to pursue degrees in science, engineering, and mathematics.
1. Do you recognize the
nation of Palestine?
2. Would you de-fund Israel's
West Bank "settlements"?
How can you stop the president from being sealed off from the ordinary people of the United States by the sometimes-overzealous security of the Secret Service and other security agencies?
To all the candidates:
While it is understandable that your personal views may be affected by your respective religion, do you think it is constitutional, or simply fair, to push for or pass laws that are based on religiously-driven views?
The current adult education system
serves approximately 3 million of the 93 million individuals a year in
need of adult literacy services, with waiting lists throughout the
United States. If elected, what steps will your administration take to
increase access for new immigrants, the unemployed, underemployed, high
school dropouts and others in need of assistance?
Jill Blair
Normal, IL
This question is for Hilary Clinton, how do you respond to Democratic voters who are hesitant to vote for you because of their fear that the position as President of the United States is becoming a legacy for certain individuals rather than a position attained through hard work for the American people?
American political leaders devalue intellectuals and intellectualism at the same time that the American education system is lagging behind so many other countries and Americans are reading less and less. Do you see these trends as related? What would you do to restore intellectual leadership in this country?
Will you commit to reversing policy toward Cuba, ending the embargo and instituting normal trade and diplomatic relations with Cuba?
What steps would you take to halt the prostelizing activity by and preferential treatment afforded to religious fundamentalists particularly at the Air Force Academy and elswhere in the military?
Are you willing to personally travel to Iran, Syria and other Middle East countries to meet with Islamic leaders to demonstrate a new openess of the US to the problems of that region?
Two questions:
1) Prior to an election, those running for president talk about what they will do when elected. Clearly, this is not an easy task because the other two branches of government also impact the path the nation takes. Speaking specifically and not just referring to non-partisanship, how will you implement your ideas in this complex and often confrontational environment?
2) I believe that one often lacking, but essential skill that we need in our president is that of leadership. Specifically, how will you engage, unite, and lead the American people into the future? Interestingly, this is a task that the president can do without involving the other branches of government.
Would dyou be willing tdo meet with President Hugo Chavez in an attempt to open a dialogue with him and other South American leaders who are critical of current US policies?
93 million adults (and their children) would benefit from adult education and
literacy services. With a combination of federal, state, and local
dollars, only three (3) million adults are currently served. Waiting
lists, in a majority of states, indicate that millions of adults,
are waiting to enter a program. Increasing these adults' basic skills improves their ability to support themselves and their children and increases the chance that their children will be educationally and economically successful. What steps will you take to support, promote, and sustain an increase in funding to insure that services are available for adults who need them?
As president, would you introduce legislation to lift the ban on growing industrial hemp in the U.S.?
As the father of a son with Down Syndrome, I would like to know what each candidate's plans are for supporting individuals with special needs, not just in education but also in the transition to independent living and in securing funding for the necessary research to improve the lives of more than 50 million Americans.
All of you would make a fine President. But, as one who is desperate to end the Republican reign in the White House, I will vote for the one who has the best chance to win in November. Why are you that one? Do you think that Senator Clinton arouses too much negativity to win the general election? Would Senator Obama's race hurt him?
Senator Clinton, I want to ask you about something that bothers many of us. Wasn't your decision to run for the Senate from New York (a place you can't legitimately call home by any common-sense standard) ethically equivalent to gerrymandering? Shouldn't constituents choose their representatives and not vice versa?
Were you a registered Republican, which candidate in this current primary field would you vote for, and why?
If you do not win the presidency, what single piece of advice would you give the new president?
To all candidates:
I once heard a story (on NPR) about a college president who did not hold an inaugural ball (as tradition) after taking office at her college. As I remember, times were tough, the school was in transition and she felt that the money could be better spent in other ways. With the money she created scholarships for low-income students. I was moved by the story and thought it an amazing gesture and a much better use of school money. With so much money being spent on the wars, I was reminded of this story and thought that this was a great lesson for our elected officials. I wonder, if you became president would YOU forgo all the inaugural balls and the millions of dollars spent on these events and put the money to better use helping our country?
How would you address the ad hoc, insidious infiltration of voting, tax-paying American's personal correspondence as an effort toward combating terrorism? Isn't this just a side-blind to the Constitutional Right of Privacy? Terrorism of the American People?
To Sen. Obama & Former Sen, Edwards,
Please comment on the following. I believe one of the greatest threats to democracy is t