Political Punch

Dr. Dobson -
Your theocratic agenda and power mongering goal has been thwarted by the good and wise voters of the USA. By a system put in place by the Founding Fathers who looked forward and backward through time and saw bigots like yourself trying to control people via strong-arming fear, propaganda and the most vile exploitation of religion. There are so many glaring ironies and hypocrisies we've all witnessed, such as your prayer warriors being ignored... may your "ministry" proceed to the wilderness of Fred Phelps and Westboro Church where you can share TULIP petals... and "God Hates America" signs... so we can make sure to bring them up in the next election. Your "manifest destiny" is being realized for what it is... while Providence has taken up a Bob Dylan tune.

I listened to audio of a conversation between Palin and Dobson that was very disconcerting. In my opinion Dobson twists everything around to make himself out to be a man oozing with love and sincerity, milking every type of small emotion that will make him look angelic or something. Palin has a worldview that she is ordained by God to win at politics. People like this alienate a lot of people because they are so full of themselves and see themselves as walking around with halos.

Everyone is tip-toeing around the issue of Alaska Governor Palin’s 17 year old daughter Bristol becoming pregnant by her 18 year old boyfriend. We are being told “it’s a family matter that shouldn’t be in the press and that the couple plans to be married”.

Well, let me bring this issue to the fore front.

The majority of states in America today have laws / statues where consensual sex with a minor result in a statutory rape conviction, usually by that states Attorney General. A conviction is followed by a minimum of ten years living as a registered sex offender.

Is this not the law in Alaska? If so, how has Alaska avoided making it so?

If it is the law in Alaska then why hasn’t the Alaska Attorney General filed charges against Bristol’s boyfriend? Perhaps, it’s because it’s the governor’s daughter who’s pregnant?

I’ll ask the same question in regards to Britney Spears little sister, Jamie Lynn Spears. Why was her boyfriend not charged with rape resulting in prison time and the requirement that he register as a sex-offender for the next ten years?

There is a double standard that celebrities and political families get special legal treatment but regular Americans are being stigmatized and persecuted for the rest of their lives for the very same acts.

Americans need to take a close look at the current sex-offender qualifications. Should an 18 year old who has consensual sex with their 17, 16 or 15 year old partner face the stigma of being a registered sex-offender?

In America the majority of people believe if you are a registered sex-offender then you are a child molester, a pedophile and a pervert.

There are thousands of innocent people who are being forced to become a registered sex-offender every year.

Public urination and “mooning” are both convictions that will also land you on the registry for a minimum of ten years.

When you are a registered sex-offender, you struggle to find and keep housing, employment and your family because of the stress and humiliation that the registry creates within yourself, your neighbors, your co-workers and vigilantes looking for justice for a victim they don’t even know.

In some states like Virginia the accusation of being “touched” is sufficient for prosecution with a sentence of life plus 20 years in prison. The state does not require physical evidence, a witness or that the accuser be mentally evaluated and it doesn’t matter if the accuser has a history of lying, that’s “inadmissible” Virginia even enters the “accusation” as evidence in court!

In Virginia, they prosecute every accusation which means a conviction every time and jail time is highly likely unless you plead “guilty”.

I am not supporting these current laws, statues or the existence of the sex-offender registry,

I want all Americans to know what laws are in existence today, how unfair and appalling they are and stand up and say “No more”.

Maybe if a few celebrities and political families have to endure the demonization of being a registered sex-offender, these ridiculous laws would be eliminated.

Everyone is tip-toeing around the issue of Alaska Governor Palin’s 17 year old daughter Bristol becoming pregnant by her 18 year old boyfriend. We are being told “it’s a family matter that shouldn’t be in the press and that the couple plans to be married”.

Well, let me bring this issue to the fore front.

The majority of states in America today have laws / statues where consensual sex with a minor result in a statutory rape conviction, usually by that states Attorney General. A conviction is followed by a minimum of ten years living as a registered sex offender.

Is this not the law in Alaska? If so, how has Alaska avoided making it so?

If it is the law in Alaska then why hasn’t the Alaska Attorney General filed charges against Bristol’s boyfriend? Perhaps, it’s because it’s the governor’s daughter who’s pregnant?

I’ll ask the same question in regards to Britney Spears little sister, Jamie Lynn Spears. Why was her boyfriend not charged with rape resulting in prison time and the requirement that he register as a sex-offender for the next ten years?

There is a double standard that celebrities and political families get special legal treatment but regular Americans are being stigmatized and persecuted for the rest of their lives for the very same acts.

Americans need to take a close look at the current sex-offender qualifications. Should an 18 year old who has consensual sex with their 17, 16 or 15 year old partner face the stigma of being a registered sex-offender?

In America the majority of people believe if you are a registered sex-offender then you are a child molester, a pedophile and a pervert.

There are thousands of innocent people who are being forced to become a registered sex-offender every year.

Public urination and “mooning” are both convictions that will also land you on the registry for a minimum of ten years.

When you are a registered sex-offender, you struggle to find and keep housing, employment and your family because of the stress and humiliation that the registry creates within yourself, your neighbors, your co-workers and vigilantes looking for justice for a victim they don’t even know.

In some states like Virginia the accusation of being “touched” is sufficient for prosecution with a sentence of life plus 20 years in prison. The state does not require physical evidence, a witness or that the accuser be mentally evaluated and it doesn’t matter if the accuser has a history of lying, that’s “inadmissible” Virginia even enters the “accusation” as evidence in court!

In Virginia, they prosecute every accusation which means a conviction every time and jail time is highly likely unless you plead “guilty”.

I am not supporting these current laws, statues or the existence of the sex-offender registry,

I want all Americans to know what laws are in existence today, how unfair and appalling they are and stand up and say “No more”.

Maybe if a few celebrities and political families have to endure the demonization of being a registered sex-offender, these ridiculous laws would be eliminated.

I was a 17 year old pregnant teenager and my mother didn't hide me away. It is possible to have a child and still have a life. I am now 27 with a beautiful 8 year old.

Raising a child isn't the only option here people, unborn babies should have rights too. Although it is challenging, teen pregnancy does not mean life is over, it also does not make Mrs. Palin any less ready for running for VP. I would be so proud of my mother if she were in this historic position.

I would also be very proud knowing my mother was sticking to her beliefs and values and not being swayed by those around her. At least she is open about where she stands.

The minute we take God out of this country completely is when God will stop looking out for our country. We will have completely shut ourselves off to receiving any Blessing He has for us.

If you don't take your beliefs into the voting booth what else do you take with you? Your values should absolutely be your guide for who to vote for.

I am not a mud slinger, all I can say is I don't trust Obama or his "rhetoric" I haven't heard one real response from him on one side of any issue, he plays the fence so much and I can not pull the lever for someone who I have no idea what they stand for or against.

I know what I am getting with McCain.

And to be more honest I don't like John McCain, I don't fully agree with him either and I felt the same way Mr Dobson did when I knew John McCain was the Republican nominee, that is until I found out who the Democratic Nominee was.

Shame on everyone here who is being judgemental of their family situation.

Vote your conscience and stick to the issues.

I am so glad to see some christians speaking out about this Sarah Palin VP choice. I am a chrisitian but I don't bring my belief in Christ into the voting booth. I am so tired of James Dobson and his mind-less, one issue, hypocrites ruining the direction of this nation. We cannot and should not attempt to legislate morality in this nation. People are generally good and don't just walk around vaccuming babies out of wombs!! I believe that the church should spend it's time trying to help pregnant woman who don't want their child carry to term and give up for adoption. That should be it's role. That should be a christian's role. Instead, because of one issue, (well, 2 if you count gay marriage, another misguided position held by christians) albeit important, these christians align themselves with a political party who continue to destroy the middle class and it's ability to raise children in a fair society. Why don't christians fight to make poverty illegal, thal might help eliminate abortions, ya think. it is time for christians to stop this stifling, devisive behavior. who do you think you are. Was this the message of christ? align with the romans and persecute the sinners? absolutely not!!! the religious leaders of the time were condemned for doing just that. I am ashamed to call myself a christian and am looking for another term to asoc myself with christ and disassoc with you psychos.

I think Obama said it well...judging others is above our pay grades. I believe God is the only one who can judge what is in a persons heart and soul.
Something in the bible about judge not least you be judged.

Those who have been throwing stones from their glass houses for years cannot expect the folks who have been pelted with the stones to sit on their hands when one of the glass houses has shattered.

One last comment:

Insistence on absitnence followed with parental absence is nonsense- and ineffective, as well.

The issue is simple: Sarah Palin was offered to the Christian Right to mollify and pander to those values held dearest. But instead of bolstering sacred beliefs, the GOP put forth a candidate that has those who once championed traditional values now sounding like free-thinking Liberals.

Shame on anyone who falls for this. Mrs. Palin is nothing like the real mothers of the movment who sacrifice everything for their family in the quest for healthy children.

Bristol's decision making is being extolled by those who should at least question it-out loud and in a forum that would hope to TEACH our children.

I really do not quite understand just what Palins pro family values are.

As a mother I find it very problematic to cast your own daughter into the national spotlight for scrutiny over your own political aspirations.

She has slashed funding in her home state for teen moms and special needs children.

There are too many mixed messages here.

what ever happened to the separation of religion and politics? more importantly, i truly feel bad for the christian conservatives of this nation. i respect them living the way they choose as this freedom is what makes america a great nation. however, it is laughable at what feeble minds they can possess. (granted, to follow a god requires an innate ability to be allowed to be told what to think.)

back to topic, i'm not posting to poke fun at those who believe in organized religion. i'm posting my sincere sympathy for being sold off to the republican party by their preaching leaders like dobson and co. Republicans use this vote as a pawn - they pander to you every 4 years so you and your 37 children will vote republican as god wills. Then, they do nothing but make themselves richer and maybe throw you a supreme court justice along the way. Your TURNOUT is what wins elections, not that you have the prevalent societal beliefs and values.

Truth be told, the evengelical christian right wing conservative vote is actually a small, tiny, fraction of the true values and beliefs of the united states of america. The republicans have chosen wisely to court a group who already shows a propensity to mindlessly believe and STAND UP FOR biblical rhetoric - they knew you'd show up on tuesday. It's like choosing the fastest runner to play running back or the best writer to work at a newspaper. The republicans have made you their army because you will do anything they tell you (as long as they cite god) and will do it with relentless vigor. They got the whole concept from this Darwin guy - it's call survival of the fittest.

The thing is, nothing ever gets done to support your causes because they are just too out of touch with modern society. If the GOP actually started pushing these initiatives (rather than promise them campaigning) then the other lazy assed 85% of the country would start voting them out of office.

And i'll throw this in just so my opinion will be totally disregarded: I'm an aetheist, pro choice, environmentalist, feminist, evolutionist, left winger. I'm sure you gauged that. But, as I've said before, christian conservatives are totally free to live and think as they might - it makes our country great. Just please realize that politics needs you to use your brain a little better! Stay independent - it opens you up to support who ACTUALLY meets some of your beliefs.

Already!!! Already!!!! One day after the RNC, Sarah has to take a few days off to see her son off to Iraq, while everyone else in the running will be out giving interviews on the campaign trail. My son went to Iraq too, and I completley understand that is a #1 priority. However, it only lends credence to those of us who are concerned about taking on a job as demanding as that of VP, and possibly the President of these United States, with so much on her plate. I am a woman with a degree who could be making close to six figures right now. But with a son of four years old I put my career on the back burner. There is no such thing as doing it all. You can not be in two places at one time. Sorry ladies but you know it as truth. You have either your career and everyone else raises your kids, or you raise your kids. Working a 40 hour week is one thing but I would think that being second in command of the most powerful nation on earth would require more than 40 hours per week. I can beleive that conservitives are so desparate to see a rep. in office that we are willing to be so hypocrytical on the values that we have stood for, for so long.

I applaud Bristol for her decision to have her baby. However; I have voted Repulican since I could vote based on the family values platform. Now that I have grown in maturity a little, my eyes have been opened to the hypocracy. I too find it ironic that the "family values" ticket consists of a man who had an affair on his first wife and left her for a much younger and richer millionaire. And now the VP choice is under investigation for abuse of power, and yes, made a choice of career over family, including a five month old baby with special needs. And sorry folks, because of the family values platform I think the fact that her teenage daughter is pregnant should come under scrutiny. Dr. Dobson I have listened to you for years, but I have seen you play out your own agenda during this election and will not be supporting you or listening to your program any longer. If this same situation was happening in Obama's family you would be all over it. WHAT A HYPORCRITE YOU ARE!!!! It is time for Christian conservitives to stand up and make our chosen leaders accountable or get out of the world of politics all together. Wow, let me see, Obama has a solid family, wife, no infidelity within their relationship and two well grounded and beautiful daughters and you all have made him out to be a monster. Wow!, while an adultrous man's camp is made out to be forgiven saints. Wow

How can anybody put the blame on Sarah? If you do, you must have never been a parent. I'm sure she did teach abstinence or maybe even birth control. But what we teach our children isn't always what they do. People are human and make mistakes. That doesn't mean that they'te hypocrites if they don't always "practice what they preach". I don't think any of us can say we've always done the right thing. That's why we all need the forgiveness of God that only comes by trusting his Son Jesus. And one other thing-- Why does everyone think that Sarah is parading her daughter and embarassing her? Maybe Bristol wanted to be a part of the family on their night of celebration. Maybe she's mature enough to just face the music and go on. Since her mother's already been in politics, I'm sure she know it's like living in a glass house-- everybody knows your business especially in a small town.

Great point!! So we can now assume that since Dr Dobson and his team have constantly spoken out against the "Hollywood" lifesyle of pregnancies before marriage, both he and his team are also sinless.

The Bible says let him that is without sin cast the first stone. So I am assuming all the people that posted on this sight are sinless..........

I am concerned about two things: First, the display of Bristol Palin and her boyfriend at the convention. Abstinence education needs to be reinforced with more practical means of birth control. So Mrs. Palin, in her capacity as governor, bears some of the responsibility for her daughter's pregnancy.

My second, and biggest concern is the baby with Downs Syndrome. A special needs child requires special attention. Many are highly sesceptible to infections, etc. These children should not be put on display and passed around like a cute toy.

If God has blessed a family with children, the children are the FIRST priority and should be properly parented. This is especially true of a special needs child. I know.

Will Dr Dobson or someone in leadership positions PLEASE send out an e-mail or SOMETHING to help prevent the explosion of teenage pregnancies that we will now be seeing. Bristol is being put up as a role model for Pro-life causes, but this is being confused with being a role model FOR teen pregnancies. Someone have some COURAGE!!

Personally, I love that the Palins came together as a family and Bristol was able to make the choice to have this baby. What concerns me is that if Sarah Palin is given the opportunity she will take that choice away from millions of other pregnant teenagers. Would the Palins have made the same decision if they lived in the Bronx and had no money? I'm not pro-abortion by any stretch of the imagination, but I'm also not for forcing women to give birth to children they are unwilling or unable to care for.

Valerie... I take it you work for the high school where Bristol and Levi attend? That is how you know so much about what they were taught and their level of maturity.

I know a few people that are in their 40's who are not YET mature or responsible enough to have children... yet they did.

SO... unless YOU KNOW THESE PEOPLE AND HAVE A PERSONAL RELATIONSHIP WITH THEM TO KNOW WHAT THEY WERE TAUGHT... TOLD.... AND WHAT THEY THINK...

Get off your high "school" horse.

GO SARAH.... We love you even more today after your speech last night. But be prepared.... "they" don't like to be TRUMPED... which is exactly what you did and they just can't HANDLE IT....

Today, as I stood in the halls of the high school where I work, I could not help but think of Palin's irresponsible position on reproductive education. Bristol and Levi are too young to understand either marriage or parenthood. Both of them stand to compromise their educational goals. I would consider Bristol's pregnancy to be off limits if Governor Palin were not taking a public policy stand on both sex education and a woman's right to choose. How dare Palin impose her beliefs on others when her own daughter has proven that abstinence education is ineffective, even in homes where it is empahsized.

Having been a teenager and the parent of a teenage boy I can honestly say that even if you are taught abstinence and have been in the church learning that pre-marital sex is wrong it doesn't mean that you will refrain from having pre-marital sex. I think that if this was Senator Obama's daughter that Dr. Dobson would make the same comments. I have sat under numerous Pastor's and they all preach about the mother staying home with their children. They should be your priority, I agree with that, but only if it is possible. Most families today can not survive on two incomes let alone one. Should we use welfare to pay for our children? Is that a good message to send to our children? Mom can work and help support the family, but she doesn't so that she can stay home with you and you can suffer without being able to go on field trips and getting shoes when you grow out of them. I think those of you who are taking aim at this woman are being self-righteous and double minded. Why aren't you questioning "how much time will Obama be able to give to his wife and children", "will he be there when his girls need Daddy's attention?" "Did Chelsea Clinton get enough attention from her mom when they were campaingin and once Bill was President?"
Sarah Palin is supporting her daughter's decicion to marry and bring a life into this world instead of aborting it. You don't know what went on in their household, or the conversations that were held in regard to this situation. Speak only on what you personally know about and in this you know nothing other than a 17 year-old girl made an error in judgement and is doing what she must to deal with the consequences.

guys, are you all aware that no matter how much sarah palin is criticised for putting politics before family, or as the rumours say, forcing Bristol and Levi to marry, it's going to happen okay? she's going to remain active in politics, Bristol will marry Levi, and they'll just have their own sappy happily ever after. teens will keep having sex, and we will keep blaming it on lack-of-sex ed.

Did we attack Hillary when she was a working mother with Chelsea? Quit trying to pin us with the scarlet letter.

I challenge Dr. James Dobson to defend his support of Sarah Palin as the VP candidate in light of the years he has spent heaping guilt on mothers who work. His hypocrisy is astounding, disgusting, and further evidence that the altar at which he worships is that of his own political agenda.

I would be willing to bet a very large amount of money that, were we talking about a democratic candidate, Dobson would decry her lack of family values.

I am not a fan of Sarah Palin's politics. However, I would not presume to judge her decisions as a mother. We do now know her; we do not know her children; and we should all stop talking about that part of her life. Let's educate ourselves on the issues and make our choices, and our comments, accordingly.

I am an abstinence instructor in Ohio. I think there are a lot of misconseptions about these programs. What we teach them are the risks involved in sex outside of marriage - such as STDs, damaged relationships, pregnancies, broken hearts, etc. These kids already know what condoms are... what they need to learn is that it is okay to say NO, in spite of what the media teaches, in spite of peer pressure. We have seen a reduction in teen pregnancies and abortions in schools where such programs are offered. But, just because we teach teens about abstinence, does not mean they are going to go along with it. As with any direction you give a child, ultimately they will make their own decisions. All we can do is give them positive direction and love them no matter what they do. I believe we can see that in Dobson's comments as well as Palin's response to her daughter. Why is it that liberals love to put the scarlet letter on conservatives but get angry if we tell them they've done something wrong?

I am an abstinence instructor in Ohio. I think there are a lot of misconseptions about these programs. What we teach them are the risks involved in sex outside of marriage - such as STDs, damaged relationships, pregnancies, broken hearts, etc. These kids already know what condoms are... what they need to learn is that it is okay to say NO, in spite of what the media teaches, in spite of peer pressure. We have seen a reduction in teen pregnancies and abortions in schools where such programs are offered. But, just because we teach teens about abstinence, does not mean they are going to go along with it. As with any direction you give a child, ultimately they will make their own decisions. All we can do is give them positive direction and love them no matter what they do. I believe we can see that in Dobson's comments as well as Palin's response to her daughter. Why is it that liberals love to put the scarlet letter on conservatives but get angry if we tell them they've done something wrong?

Funny that Dobson didn't offer the same forgiveness to Bill Clinton or John Edwards.

Maybe if Sarah Palin wasn't so busy ignoring her family, she would've used the family shotgun to scare off the amorous advances of the high-school jock on her fifteen-year old daughter before things went too far, rather than using the shotgun to force a wedding after-the-fact.

RE:

BJ - Real Concern | Sep 2, 2008 9:23:43 PM

AMEN!!!!!

Bristol has been a casualty of her mother's political ambition and failure of wisdom...

Although I am a Christian conservative myself, I find Palin's decision to run for VP astounding. I am shocked that so many conservative Christians are backing her. Aren't these (and I'm one of them) the same people that say God and family come first? How much time will she possibly be able to devote to her 5 children (and one is an infant) if McCain is elected? I'm surprised more people aren't voicing this opinion.

"There's nothing glamorous or fun about being an unwed teen mother."

--Bill Maier. Vice President of Focus On The Family, regarding Jamie-Lynn Spears' pregnancy.

Suddenly seems pretty glamorous to the evangelicals. I wonder why.

I am appalled that Dr. Dobson did not speak out about the Palin daughter being made a national spectacle for the sake of the Republican Party. Essentially, her mother and John McCain (because he knew before hand of her pregnancy) are causing her to sacrifice her privacy, dignity and self-respect just to have Governor Palin run on the Republican ticket. This does not show Christian concern for, or sensitivity to, the situation the young lady is in. It would have shown far more concern and support if Governor Palin would have declined the VP offer because of her daughter’s condition. Real honest to God support and concern would have been to say no to the VP offer. All the talk about family support and that we all make mistakes appear to be an attempt to justify the decision to accept the VP offer.
I am writing these comments because no one else seems to have the young lady’s well being at heart. I am also writing to you Dr. Dobson because you are in a position to address this issue from a true “Focus- On- The- Family” position. I realize that some time we can get so caught up in all the drama that we loose our bearing. My purpose here is to bring us back to the real issue.

Doesn't it seem a bit ironic that the liberal candidate has the stay-at-home mother who home schools, and the family values candidate has the VP who works, has a child out of wedlock and a daughter with one too????

Thankfully, the pregnancy issue will surely pass from our consciousness as quickly as it arrived. The debate can then return to the more pressing issues of oil independence, the economy, and our role as leaders in the Twenty-first Century.

What would Dobson have said if Palin had been a Democrat and had been Obama's choice for VP?

I under no means think that the Palin's daughters pregnancy should be taken into consideration when one is determing whom they will vote for.

I do think that she it is great that she is keeping the baby. I am glad her parents are supporting her.

If we are not to have the family involved then why is the situation being used to further the agenda of the pro-life. I don't think that they should have all the praise and adoration that is being released, but I don't think the family should be hung out to dry for a personal matter.

This leads me to the next statement even if we try to strip the the family from the picture it is not going to happen the information is already out and it is fair game.

Who cares what James Dobson thinks or says?

Let's get some real news from someone that matters. That right there scratches Dobson off the list.

i absolutly LOVE what Dr Dobson had to say about this! He said exactly what i have been trying to put into words! i think this is a perfect example of the fact that palin is not just going to talk the talk. she is going to walk the walk. i do not feel like this is going to interfere with her having the responsibility of VP. and i certainly do not feel like her daughters bad choices reflect her values. you can teach your children all the good you can but you can not force them. im proud of her!
McCain/Palin 08!

The right wing nuts can't control unwanted or out of wedlock pregnancies they will rewrite family values i.e it's ok to have premarital sex and get pregnant as long as you keep the baby .

I usually do not write on blogs, but the comments here truly astound me. Where do you people come from? This young girl made a mistake - get over it, her parents are handling it just fine. Don't bother commenting about abstinence or birth control - it doesn't matter which programs - kids make mistakes. I've worked with kids so I know.

Then we have Hollywood putting out violence, sex and drugs! That's what you should be complaining about and loudly. Some people have things happen and everyone sees, however, there are "sins" of the heart that people don't see, but God does. I for one will not attack Sarah Palin or her daughter. Some of the comments here are so distasteful and ugly. I have a friend (actually of a friend) who lives in Alaska in the same area as Sarah Palin and knows her. She tells my friend that Sarah Palin is an outstanding woman including being a mother. I'm sure all those crooks she got rid of are now after her 'hook line and sinker' - think about it. The media falls for just about anything that makes headlines. They should be ashamed of what they are doing to Palin's daughter and her boy friend. LEAVE THE KIDS ALONE!

I think I will vote for McCain/Pallin. I would have preferred Hillary to Obama. I just can't get past those 20 years going to that church with his family and listening to all that hate.

Of course when they believe one of their own is running for VP, all their ideas about family do not apply. Sarah Palin has 5 children... youngest with Downs and an unwed teenage daughter. We may learn much more about this family!!So why wouldn't Dobson think she should abandon her family and run for office??

Dobson recommends that married women with children under the age of 18 focus on mothering, rather than work for income outside the home. He believes this provides a stable environment for growing children.

If the objective is to not get pregnant, all the prayers in the world aren't worth one latex condom.

What would happen if this was Biden's 17 year old daughter? Don't you think the Dobson headline would be Obama Promotes Teen Pregnancy? Isn't that how they have been responding to every teen pregnancy in the last 20 years, including Jamie Spears? And how is this story any different than Jamie Spears, there is just as much publicity. Haven't they been talking about how the Democrats destroyed American's values? When is a Rebulican going to stand up and say how ridiculous this is? I feel very sorry for Palin's daughter. She did not ask for this.

Who better to stand on a ballot (Republican or Democrat or other) than the matriarch of a family in turmoil? A family experiencing many of the crises, dilemnas, stressors, etc., which daily challenge millions of American families and households. God bless ALL Americans in our pursuit of happiness and our personal American dreams?

Why should I believe that Gov. Palin is some great mother? A real mother would not put her teenage daughter through this public ordeal but would want to be around to raise her own newborn. I don't mean this in a sexist way. I don't a father with a new-born should be elected to such a high office either. As a father of two little ones, I couldn't imagine putting my young children through the ordeal of the White House. I think her acceptance of this nomination is completely irresponsible and speaks very poorly of her. Family values--wrong--apparantly her own aspirations come first. I had thought that the first and foremost reason that Sen. Obama should not be elected is those two daughters of his. At least they are not newborns in need of constant care of their parents.
Shame of Gov. Palin--shame, shame.

Personally, I admire people who RAISE their children as opposed to just give birth to him. Bristol hasn't been living with her parents if you want to know. And as an Alaskan I know that Ms. Palin is not the real thing anyway. You all might want to investigate the things she does admire, like:

Aerial wolf hunting and the killing of cubs in dens

There's no such thing as global warming.

We don't need a clean water initiative in Bristol Bay but we really need that huge open pit mine the most beautiful country I've ever laid eyes on. We can creat more birth defects in all the unborn kids there.

You all need to read up about our next "girl prez"

jo in alaska

Enforced marriage at seventeen for the sake of Bristol's... what... reputation? To prevent he baby being thought of as illegitimate? Well, it's a bit late for THAT in the eyes of America. Very sad. Responsible teen parents can and often do raise wonderful and unexpected children without marrying at the most changeable time of life. We continue as a nation to ignore the divorce rate when we talk about the trend of teen pregnancy and parental response, and certainly McCain wants that compassionate female vote... but we should seriously consider what compelled McCain to put this overextended woman in such a public position, one of pending President, at this vulnerable time in her life and that of her large family. Is it so she can live out the series of patriotic examples and judgments he has placed on the American public, a catch-all display of all the country's woes and issues? Women having to choose between family and career... check. Children in need of parenting... check. Children with special needs ...check. A son off to war... check. Arousing everyone's sympathies has become a campaign in "clean up your own yard before judging another's". And to "S.Jull"...( who says "At least you can bet that Palin's daughter will not be on public aid and will marry the father as opposed to the "democrats" who have friends and relatives that use the system that the rest of us pay for with our taxes. I HOPE the nasty Obama supporters keep using this.") THE REST OF US? Just to clarify... do you REALLY believe that only those "nasty" democrats are on public assistance, and only those that refuse to marry a man they don't love "get" welfare? Whoa. If there were a new checkbox on the application for public assistance for young mothers who are either abused or abandoned by fathers too young or inexperienced to wed and raise families, do you think "Baby's political party" should be a consideration?

The facts are the facts. This story has not created by a bunch of keyboards typing away to spin a story. This young person is 17 and everyone has really strong emotions regarding this topic. However, why would McCain put this family through this and better yet why did her mother decide this was best for her daughter? I am amazed.

Dobson use to teach that a woman's place was in the home raising her children. Maybe if Gov. Palin had been at home giving guidance to her daughter, Bristol wouldn't be having these babies. What is a Dobson use to teach "Thou shalt not commit adultery" Why is he support a candidate who divorce his first wife Carol and married his mistress Cindy?

How about women in the military???? Do they not answer the call of their country and give themselves to that cause because of their convictions???

They sacrifice their time with their children and husbands and parents.... because they answer a higher calling

WHO are YOU to say that Sarah Palin was NOT called by GOD to be VP? Maybe she IS answering to the HIGHER power by making the sacrifice of being with her family to SERVE her COUNTRY...

OR do YOU also KNOW GOD's thoughts and mind as well as McCain's and the rest of the world?????

This is what Lyn posted and I agree 100%! The issue is not about a young girl's pregnancy - the issue is when does a responsible parent realize that this is not the right time to pursue their own ambitions. Family values means puting family first. With a new baby, especially one with problems, and a daughter who needs her..I think she should take advantage of the family leave act and stay home with her family. This was a very poor decision on McCain's part and I question why she would accept.

I NEVER said the I KNOW the Palins..... "well enough"... or PERSONALLY!!!!! THE REST OF YOU.... who are making STUPID remarks about how the daughter didn't or should have used birth control are the ones acting like YOU are their best friends and know the details of very private things THAT ARE STILL PRIVATE.... within that very public family.

Asking questions and trying to research is ONE THING.... BLINDLY and STUPIDLY assuming YOU KNOW what is in another person's mind... making accusations and assumptions that YOU KNOW what is going on.... is ANOTHER....

Do you KNOW for a FACT the McCain didn't KNOW about this???? Do YOU know for a FACT that McCain didn't do "proper research" and if you do KNOW that for a FACT.... HOW did YOU come to THAT information???

Palin is a politician.... what makes her children any more perfect than yours or mine.... or for that matter any "PK"
(That's "Preacher's Kid" for those who may not know the term)

Where was Dobson when Clinton "had no sex with that woman?" The crying, pious faces of these Republican congressmen, parading their disgust as they tried to politically kill Clinton...to impeach him during those time keeps coming back to my mind makes me puke. "Being a Christian does not mean you're perfect. Nor does it mean your children are perfect. But it does mean there is forgiveness and restoration when we confess our imperfections to the Lord. I've been the beneficiary of that forgiveness and restoration in my own life countless times, as I'm sure the Palins have." Dobson.

The Republicans' hypocrisy stench is rising up to heaven...again.

The Republican spin machine is an amazing thing to watch, although anyone with a little common sense can readily discern the BS and lies pouring out of this propaganda device. Watching the pious G.O.P. Delegates on TV talking about prayer and respect for the Hurricane Victims and reading the stories about the behind the door parties being thrown by lobbyist and big corporations for the Delegates, one quickly gets a sense of the magnitude of the deranged thinking that fills their minds. Of course, the truth eventually comes out, but it doesn't seem to bother them as they effortlessly move on to the next bigger and better lie. These people are so hypocritical and stupid that they begin to believe their own lies. And, so it goes from day-to-day that bright and cheerful gathering known as the G.O.P. convention. Obama/Biden 08!!!

This isn't about 'teenage pregnancies'--it's about the audacious public appearance of a person claiming 'truth', 'honesty', Selfless Motherhood, Family Values, morality, upright Christian Conservative values--but really is just another Political Wolf in Sheep's Clothing--looking for Public Trust!!!! Are we to 'forgive' her 'deception'--for the sake of John McCain's bid for the Presidency? Why, any other 'male' we'd pounce on as being untrustworthy!

Let's not fool ourselves and be too hasty in believing the Republican Party has finally taken on the mantle of 'compassionate' Conservative Christian Values. It's NOT GOING TO HAPPEN.

Should Christians allow themselves to be deceived by flattering PROMISES from the lips of beautiful women in politics who want to proclaim they're really representing Christian values?! Oh, don't we Christians pray and pray that the Republican Party will choose Upright and Just Christian LEADERS! It's not going to happen!

John McCain has publically SHAMED Mrs. Palin and her family (Motherhood)--encouraged her to proclaim she was a Reformer with conservative values--then forced her to 'cover up' the truth about her daughter--having her and Motherhood humiliated in the press!

Should Christians follow the leadership of McCain's 'ideal' candidate? Does he want us to support her audacious stance--joining with the hypocrites in the Republican Party--the ole ways of 'hiding' the truth about unmarried teenage pregnant women!??? Wanting to appear 'righteous' for sake of Political Gain!!

SINCE WHEN DO WE LOOK FOR 'TRUTH' COMING FROM ANY POLITICAL PARTY SEEKING ELECTION! These are Men-of-this-World! These are Idolaters! These men are self-seeking Power and Might in the FLESH!

This disclosure was in response to the "baby isn't really hers but a cover up that the baby is really her daughter's." At least you can bet that Palin's daughter will not be on public aid and will marry the father as opposed to the "democrats" who have friends and relatives that use the system that the rest of us pay for with our taxes. I HOPE the nasty Obama supporters keep using this. This 50+ female Hillary supporter is moving closer to McCain.

Jesus said it best: "Those without SIN cast the first stone."

So much for the efficacy of abstinence training.

The issue is not about a young girl's pregnancy - the issue is when does a responsible parent realize that this is not the right time to pursue their own ambitions. Family values means puting family first. With a new baby, especially one with problems, and a daughter who needs her..I think she should take advantage of the family leave act and stay home with her family. This was a very poor decision on McCain's part and I question why she would accept.

The point is: Sarah Palin has a lot on her plate, now (or should realize she has a lot on her plate) and the vice-presidency does not come with "Flexible Work Hours."
But...oh, she's perfectly happy to utilize "women's rights" to go ahead and take a great opportunity...no matter that she has an infant at home and a teenage daughter who needs a lot of support, right now.

insight_garbage:

Maybe you know the Palins well enough. The rest of the public doesn't. Blame John McCain for bringing her forth without proper vetting. Blame her for accepting the nod and knowing that her family would be cast into the light. But don't blame the public for being concerned and having questions about a person that may possibly become VP or P of our country in these disastrous and serious times.

WOW.... ALL of you people.... EVERY last ONE of you who have commented here have just IMPRESSED me so much.

It is just so INCREDIBLE how you ALL know the Palin family so intimately. I'm sure you ALL have been to their home for dinner or gone to school with them or their children or even attend their church. I must be the ONLY PERSON in the USA that doesn't know them. I feel so left out!!!!!!!

While I admit all of you are entitled to your OPINION.... and as long as we have the freedom of speech we can each prove to the whole world our intelligence.... or lack there of.... by openly expressing our OPINION... at least be bright enough to know that it is YOUR OPINION....

So get off your soap box and do the CHRISTIAN thing and PRAY for this family, their children, include ALL the families and Children in the world... and PRAY for our country.... there may not be much time left of the USA as we know it.

Of course.... that IS only MY OPINION...

I do not profess or pretend to be perfect... just to have a right to my OPINION. As the rest of you who left comments are perfect and always correct in what you do and say....

And YOU never had sex before marriage or the way some of you talk maybe you didn't have it AFTER marriage either....

ANYWAY....

I feel very honored to be allowed the freedom to post my OPINION with the rest of your PERFECT and TRUE statements. It must be wonderful for all of you to be so "god-like".

I was always taught there was only ONE GOD... and I thought HE hadn't come back yet..... Hummmm.... WELL, As for me I'm just a human.... very flawed and imperfect.... not the brightest but not the least intelligent either. AND I admit I am a sinner and don't know EVERYTHING but I do know that I AM FORGIVEN for those sins, for being imperfect and for being human.

BUT.... I am still feeling hurt that you all know the intimate details of the Palin family... right down to the method of birth control or lack of birth control used by the women and men in this family. You all must be very close to know those kinds of details....

I hope my invitation to their home for dinner didn't get lost in the mail. I'm so upset.... If the ticket does win in Nov....

I will be the only person NOT to be invited to the white house.... that hurts.... it really does!!!

GROW UP AMERICA.... BEFORE IT'S TOO LATE

The Palins will be fine. This just isn't the time in our country for serious personal issues in a family for someone to be concerned with protecting this country from the enemies that are looking on with smiles on their faces. Let's get real about this because it's about our all our children's futures and this country's well being. We have evil enemies out there that could care less about niceties of a mother supporting her teenager's pregnancy. We all haven't lost our minds or our focus.

"Well said. Dems should be ashamed of themselves if they try to use this. It's repulsive and there should be a massive backlash against the Dem party for attacking this loving family."

--- You mean if they attack in like the Rove machine attacks other people?

Heck, I see at least one L3 sex offender here, but when Mum-in-law is the Governor special rules apply to you.
A good compromise would be L3 for both of the offenders, but with probation instead of 25-life.
Live by the rules you make for others.

"Well said. Dems should be ashamed of themselves if they try to use this. It's repulsive and there should be a massive backlash against the Dem party for attacking this loving family."

--- You mean if they attack in like the Rove machine attacks other people?

Heck, I see at least one L3 sex offender here, but when Mum-in-law is the Governor special rules apply to you.
A good compromise would be L3 for both of the offenders, but with probation instead of 25-life.
Live by the rules you make for others.