Anti-war Cindy Sheehan files to take on Pelosi

[Newsjock]

Source: San Francisco Chronicle

Peace activist Cindy Sheehan wants to snatch House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's congressional seat from her in November, but first she's going to need the help - and signatures - of 10,198 friends and supporters.

Sheehan was at San Francisco City Hall on Friday to take out papers for her independent run for Congress, but without those signatures from voters in the district, her name won't show up on the ballot.

"It's an uphill battle," said Sheehan, who vowed to run against Pelosi in July after the speaker refused to start impeachment proceedings against President Bush. "But I'm excited about the signature-gathering process. It's going to be an opportunity to talk to people about our campaign."

... "In this political environment, the speaker has to work for those things that are possible," said Brendan Daly, a spokesman for Pelosi. An impeachment effort "would be divisive, we couldn't get the votes, and we would have to spend all our time on it."

Read more: http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2008/04/25/BAU310AJJ9.DTL&tsp=1

---

Mods: This story neither advocates for nor opposes Sheehan's run for office; it's just news of the day.

[napi21]

1. I like and respect Cindy for the tough battle she's fought, and her

refusal to back down from all those who opposed her, BUT, she's really no politician. She doesn't stand a chance against Nancy.

[AlCzervik]

4. totally agree and no one should ever have to walk in her shoes, not one more

parent/wife/husband/brother or sister should have to lose their loved one the way she did.

[ladjf]

36. Maybe she doesn't. But, I'm glad she is trying. I would vote

for her in a heart beat.

[IsItJustMe]

43. Maybe she isn't, but it would be great to see someone like Cindy up their in congress giving them

hell and telling the truth to these bastards.

[GodlessBiker]

45. We need people who aren't "politicians."

[Torn_Scorned_Ignored]

155. ...it is, We The People

and I would vote for Cindy in a New York minute. :patriot:

[pokercat999]

183. Serious term limits like one term and you are out

forever, never to hold any federal office would eliminate the "professional" pol.

[4waterfalls]

184. exactly

;)

[LynneSin]

69. If she wanted to take on Nancy - RUN AS A DEMOCRAT

if not, this shouldn't be on the front page of DU

[derby378]

82. My thoughts exactly - but Dems on the Hill drove her away by voting to fund Iraq

Then there was this one DUer who referred to Cindy as an "attention whore" when she announced she was stepping down from her high-visibility role. Cindy got wind of it and assumed that the Democratic Party had forsaken her. Some of us really fucked up in that regard. Even if all of the Dems on the Hill collectively wised up, would that be enough to bring Cindy back into the party? I wish I knew.

[cstanleytech]

106. Well if you want to see it like that ok

however I take a more pragmatic view, the Dems on the hill had little choice and still do to be honest as far as funding the war goes. I know it sucks and all but the fact is there are enough people who would look down upon the Dems if they cut the money because they would view it as not supporting the troops and the republicans would use that fact as a hammer to gain even more seats, do you really want them to hold onto power another 20 years or more?
The Dems still have a tenuous hold over congress and the senate can go either way so yeah, by all means push for them not to fund the war and then watch the republicans chuckle and laugh as they regain control over the congress and senate while the Dems ability to keep them in check is lessened if thats what you want.

[derby378]

107. Tell me, how deep in debt is America because of the lies that took us into Iraq?

Not to mention that gas is $3.50 a gallon, groceries are skyrocketing partially because of the ethanol boondoggle, and we're no safer as a nation than we were before invading Iraq.

I personally think we should pull out troops out starting on January 21, 2009, and defund the whole damn thing. Our tax money isn't doing us any favors supporting this sham.

[wpelb]

179. Unfortunately, that would destabilize the Middle East

U.S. presence in Iraq provides some stability (such as it is) to the area. A quick U.S. withdrawal would embolden Sunnis, Shiites, Kurds and who knows what else to try to fill the power vacuum at the expense of everyone else.

Since the Middle East, unlike Vietnam and other parts of Indochina, has a natural resource (i.e., oil) that is demanded by much of the wealthy industrialized world, (more) political turmoil there is not desirable.

As much as most Democrats would like to get out of Iraq (so would some Republicans), it's not going to happen anytime soon. Getting the troops out of there in an orderly fashion (without it looking a surrender or retreat) is going to be enough of a chore. As proof, look at what has happened to Democrats (like Rep. Kucinich) who made an end to the war in Iraq a central plank in their respective platforms.

No matter who wins in November, either in the presidential race or in your local Congressional or U.S. Senate contest, things will not change dramatically in January.

[4waterfalls]

185. status quo bug

you've got the status quo bug,my friend
things won't change because not enough of us are demanding it.

[proud2BlibKansan]

192. It is NOT OUR RESPONSIBILITY to stabilize the middle east

We need to get the fuck OUT. We wouldn't have been attacked on 9/11 if we had kept out of the middle east.

Would you rather we keep spending $720 million a day on an illegal war (actually we are borrowing the money from China) or have universal health care and fully funded schools? We can't afford to throw money at Iraq and tend to our domestic needs too.

[cstanleytech]

201. Deep but thats not what

I was talking about either nor was I discussing the price of gas, food or that we are or are not more safe though in my opinion its neither since there will always be terrorists and other atrocities commited as long as a sentient species willing kills other sentients.

[truedelphi]

177. Cindy and anyone else who is a "nobody' cannot get

The needed Di Feinstein approval. The Democratic Party forces people to run as indies.

California is a very DLC controlled area of the country. If you wanna run for office, unless you have been throwing tens of thousands of dollars into the coffers of Feinstein or Pelosi, or unless you have very staid, status quo opinions (For isntance, your thinking is along the lines of: maybe there is some truth to the election machinery concerns, but when there is, the media will lay it out for us) you are not going to get the nod to run anywhere in San Francisco Area.

[Preston120]

96. Tell Me the difference between a Republican who funds an "Unjust and Immoral War"

and a Democrat who funds an Unjust and Immoral War.

[LynneSin]

151. This is a democratic website that supports democrats

this has been the policy for the 8 years I've been here.

Cindy is not a democrat and btw, not all democrats are evil. Nancy Pelosi is a democrat no matter what you say but if you don't like her then you have Shirley Golub, a democrat running an almost identical platform to Cindy Sheehan

[ogsbee]

168. So anyone calling herself a Democrat is one?

It doesn't matter how they vote or whose interests they espouse? What about actual moles like Leiberman - the Republicans actually defunded their named candidate when it was apparent Leiberman might be in trouble. Is he a Democrat?

I'm sure Cindy will caucus with the Democrats if she wins.

[LynneSin]

194. If you read the rules to DU - this is what they've always followed for the last 8 years

DU does not officially 'endorse candidates' but they do not allow their site for promotion of non-democrat canidates. When Joe Lieberman lost the primary, he was not supported here and the few Joe fans who started threads saw them locked.

Perhaps you could visit the posting policy section to see that I'm basically sharing the information that has been set by the folks who monitor this website.

And unlike many short-sited folks here at DU, I still believe in the big tent. We start tossing out every democrat that doesn't agree 100% with ones own platform, well it's a damn lonely tent of people being ruled by Republicans.

And personally, I think that's bullshit!

People publically opposed Bob Casey Jr when he ran against Rick Santorum. Here's a guy who could probably easily beat Santorum and did so by 20pts. But the Casey family (his dad was governor of PA) has a long stance of pro-life policies. (I call Bob pro-life because first, he's not some hardcore anti-choice like Santorum, the guy does believe in EC, family planning, real sex education and birth control. But he also cares about the fetus after it's born too).

But the thing is, Casey has proven to be one of the more liberal democrats in DC this term. Everytime a vote like FISA or war funding came thru you could bet Casey was on our side and he was. Just proof once again that some people have very narrow tents that allow nobody else in it. I'm glad Casey is elected, I support Shirley Golub, but I"m not so short-sighted to support an independant candidate especially when there is a democrat running on the same platform.

What really saddens me is if we all got behind Shirley Golub we could get a democrat elected in this position who opposes the war, one with a similiar platform to Sheehan. But instead we pretty much just gave Pelosi another 2 years.

[ptolle]

103. but maybe

What you say about her political skills may be true,but maybe just the possibility of action against Pelosi might be enough to stir Nancy to greater action.Besides there's no shortage of political skills available on a volunteer basis or for sale to the highest bidder.Basically I'm just happy to see someone poking Mrs. Pelosi's posterior with a sharp stick.

[bluestateguy]

2. She probably thinks she'll be Speaker of the House too, if she wins

I bet she doesn't get 20% of the vote.

[proud2BlibKansan]

9. And Obama is a Muslim!

Love those idiotic talking points.

[shadowknows69]

41. I doubt she assumes that

Cindy is a very intelligent woman and I'm sure she's done her homework.

[stimbox]

56. I know YOU think that she thinks that. You say that in every thread about Pelosi opponents.

:crazy:

where has she ever said that?

[lonestarnot]

101. at least she has a pair. Are you running for office?

[H8fascistcons]

111. Confused?

I'm not sure why DUers have such contempt for Cindy, all she did was lose her son in an illegal war. Could you please enlighten me as to your disgust for her?? Thanks, Regards........

[Yukari Yakumo]

132. Easy...

She's an idiot.

[Moochy]

178. So Says Aya Reiko an Internet Celebrity!

It found a cute graphic too, awww....

[4waterfalls]

186. Sheehan is right

Maybe America isnt ready for the truth,as weve seen what happened to every other candidate who dared to upset the status quo.When will we be?

[David__77]

3. I have no problem with this.

Indeed, if anything it applies some pressure on Pelosi to strengthen an anti-war stance.

[proud2BlibKansan]

11. We need 100 more people willing to do what Cindy is doing

Congress won't change until we change Congress.

[Name removed]

37. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[razors edge]

33. What "anti-war stance" are you refering to?

The only war she is against is the war against W.

[saltpoint]

5. Love Cindy the citizen. But would vote to retain the incumbent.

[AlCzervik]

6. i wish she'd come up here and run against one of the asshole republicans we have in this

part of California.

[saltpoint]

7. There ya go. Right on the money as usual.

:toast:

[northzax]

14. that wouldn't be nearly as good publicity

as running against the Speaker from the generally anti-war party, now would it?

[orleans]

13. why wouldn't you vote for the dem running against pelosi?

do you really want pelosi back in office? after everything she didn't do?

[saltpoint]

15. Nancy Pelosi represented my district when I lived in California.

I love her.

You're goddam right I'd support her again if I lived there.

[orleans]

17. alright then. i never heard of her until...2006.

so i don't have the history you do w/her. i don't know how wonderful she was.

all i know is that ... well--you know.

[saltpoint]

18. Got ya. but I do go back with her a ways. She is singulrly

impressive in many ways.

Again -- I respect Cindy Sheehan the citizen. Have gone to hear her speak. But see no call to support an independent in that district against Speaker Pelosi.

There was exciting talk on DU very recently about Obama possibly including Pelosi on a shortlist for the vice presidential nomination.

[orleans]

21. i missed the obama/pelosi talk. (thank goodness) n/t

[dixiegrrrrl]

72. You are joking, right?

:wtf:

Pelosi picked by Obama for VP????? :puke:


editted to say I was replying to #17..not to 18.

[saltpoint]

81. Hi, dixiegrrrl. It is a consideration.

I haven't heard any hardcore, can't-take-it-back predictions on this, no, but as there are many Democrats out there who would happily serve on our ticket, and many I'd support, I think Pelosi is not out of the question at all and would bring many positives.

One positive is a strong liberal voting record over many decades.

Another positive is strategic: if some women voters and some Clinton voters "won't vote for anybody but Clinton," they might reconsider if a woman is on our ticket, even if it is not their first-choice woman. If you can't vote for the one you love, love the one who's on the ticket.

[dixiegrrrrl]

88. I can also see another pro arguement for her

in that she has experience and alliances in Congress, not a bad thing for Obama.
But...
however...
on the other hand....
She's given us a lot of disappointment and frustration
and
is part of the "good ole boy" network which makes it difficult to see any difference between the parties.

EOM

[saltpoint]

90. Always a legitimate concern, although in Obama's administration, I think

you are insightful to say that the Congressional alliance is vital.

It might be argued that it will be the key to his presidency. He has to first undo the damage Bush has done, and then initiatie new, meaningful reforms as well, and he's going to have to go through the 111th Congress to do either.

I think she would be a loyal and fierce ally for him in that arena, and if we voters give Democrats stronger, larger majorities in both chambers, those reforms can more likely be shepherded through.

[jeanruss]

93. WWIII

WWIII is being enabled by Nancy Pelosi. If she had done her job, Impeachment would be well on its way by now. Her protection has allowed the War against Iran to proceed unimpeded. It doesn't matter what she has done in the past. She has the power to stop them and won't use it. Actions speak louder than words. I think she would be fine with the impending Iran attack apparently. As a woman I am ashamed at her lack of courage in these dangerous days. It doesn't appear that we really have a two-party system. We just have one WARMONGER PARTY, and ahe is a participant. She is a part of the top 1% that is profiting from this perpetual war.

[H8fascistcons]

114. Well Said.........

My thoughts exactly.......

[saltpoint]

171. Well, you're occupying the far, far left, which is an admirable adventure

but a doomed political commitment.

U.S. elections and their attendant issues are invariably decided on the floors of the chambers of the Congress, of which Ms. Pelosi is a prominent official.

[H8fascistcons]

113. Shocked!

Wow! takes real "guts" to openly support a criminal Fascist enabler, sure you wouldn't be more comfortable blogging on the "Sludge" report?

[saltpoint]

172. Thanks for your observations.

Such as they are.

[Baby Snooks]

20. Despite her table?

You would vote for Pelosi despite her "table" that guaranteed two more years of the Bush Administration going unchecked and unaddressed?

Just because she is the Democratic candidate?

What has Pelosi done that deserves partisan loyalty except act to protect the other party's interests and their agenda?

[saltpoint]

22. She's the daughter of an influential Baltimore political family and

a very astute representative of her district's constituents.

Watch on election night how many of those very-alert voters in her district return her to represent them -- and America -- in the 111th Congress.

I give Cindy Sheehan all the credit she is due for her independent run but were still a Pelosi constituent she would still have my respectful support.

[Baby Snooks]

25. So was Tom De Lay....

Tom De Lay was also a "very astute representative of his district's constituents." There were Democrats in his district who voted for him. Because he served them well.

What led to his downfall was that he was NOT a very astute representative of the American people. Representatives serve two constituencies. Those in their district. And the American people.

What does her coming from "an influential Baltimore political family" have to do with her actions as Speaker of the House?

[saltpoint]

58. As a progressive, I'm not getting your model of Delay and his

constits and Pelosi and hers, of whom I was one.

No sale.

[proud2BlibKansan]

61. There's a movie: THE BIG BUY

It is the story of Tom DeLay's rise to power. Yes, he was supported by Dems as well as Republicans. That's how he got to the position of power he once had.

[saltpoint]

62. Pre-Nixon, many Southern Dems -- I'm throwing Texas into that

demographic here -- were pro-segregation. That did not recommend them to progressives.

Post-Nixon, it was the Republican Party who umbrella'd segregation and racist politics, witness the high number of public officials who switched parties -- Thurmond, Shelby, etc. Johnson called it correctly, bitter and sad though it was.

There certainly are progressive in Texas. Bill Moyers is one, although he no longer lives there as a day-to-day citizen, he is a Texan, a Baptist minister, and a true blue progressive. So it can be done.

I see the point you are making but am far away from Mr. Delay's take on the social fabric.

[Yukari Yakumo]

134. This is dated but...

And copied from someone else's post ages ago...

The House has done a lot, but the slim majority in the Senate and Bush's veto threats have prevented most of it from being coming law.

From Speaker Pelosi:

The 110th Congress is making progress for the American people on the toughest challenges we face?working together to defend our country, restore accountability, grow our economy, strengthen our families, and preserve our planet.

Since January, more than 50 key measures have passed the House, 72 percent with significant bipartisan support. In critical instances, the President and his Republican allies in Congress have stubbornly stood in the way of progress with more than 30 veto threats, obstruction and delay.

The New Direction Congress is working to change course in Iraq. This war, now into its fifth year, has not made America safer, even as our troops have bravely performed their duties. This Congress continues to demand that President Bush and the Administration be held accountable, that the Iraqi government take responsibility for its own country, and that we responsibly bring this war to an end.

The New Direction Congress is protecting America?acting to finally make the work of the independent 9/11 Commission the law of the land. We are rebuilding our military readiness and requiring that we re-engage our diplomatic allies. We are honoring our troops and veterans with pay, services, and care they deserve. We are declaring our energy independence and working to reverse global warming.

The New Direction Congress is providing the keys to the American dream?investing in American ingenuity and innovation. We are working to bring quality health care to every American child, and every child to school ready to learn. We are making America’s rural heartland a key to America’s future economic and energy security. We have changed the way we do business in Washington by restoring fiscal responsibility, government transparency, and the highest ethical standards to Congress.

These are the first of many steps in a New Direction for a stronger and more secure America.

DEFEND OUR COUNTRY

require benchmarks and progress report requirements for the war in Iraq?SIGNED INTO LAW
support timetables to bring our troops home from Iraq?VETOED BY THE PRESIDENT OVER THE WILL OF THE PEOPLE
provide critical support for veterans, military health care and military readiness?SIGNED INTO LAW
provide the largest increase in support for veterans’ services in history?PASSED THE HOUSE
require quality care for our wounded warriors?PASSED THE HOUSE
i finally implement 9-11 Commission recommendations, three years later?PASSED THE HOUSE AND SENATE
provide 3,000 new border patrol agents and tougher aviation and port security?PASSED THE HOUSE
provide emergency wildfire funding?SIGNED INTO LAW

RESTORE ACCOUNTABILITY


restore pay-as-you-go budget discipline for the first time in six years?DONE
pass a budget that balances by 2012 with no tax increase?DONE
impose rules for the highest ethical standards in Congressional history?DONE
pass the most sweeping lobby reform effort in a generation?PASSED THE HOUSE AND SENATE
restore strong Congressional oversight, saving billions, exposing corruption and incompetence?ONGOING
clean up government contracting with reforms to end waste, fraud, and abuse?PASSED THE HOUSE
provide more protections for whistleblowers who save tax dollars?PASSED THE HOUSE
bring overdue assistance to Gulf Coast communities?SIGNED INTO LAW
remove politics from influencing the appointment of U.S. Attorneys in the wake of White House scandal?SIGNED INTO LAW

GROW OUR ECONOMY


increase the minimum wage for the first time in a decade?SIGNED INTO LAW
send overdue disaster aid to American farmers and ranchers?SIGNED INTO LAW
create innovation scholarships for 100,000 math and science students and 25,000 highly trained math and science teachers?PASSED THE HOUSE
double basic research and development funding?PASSED THE HOUSE AND SENATE
create incentives for small business innovation investments?PASSED THE HOUSE

STRENGTHEN OUR FAMILIES

provide emergency assistance to ensure children receive quality health care through SCHIP (State Children’s Health Insurance Plan)?SIGNED INTO LAW
require Medicare to negotiate cheaper prescription drugs?PASSED THE HOUSE
prevent health care discrimination based on inherited conditions?PASSED THE HOUSE AND SENATE
expand medical science through stem cell research?VETOED BY THE PRESIDENT OVER THE WILL OF THE PEOPLE
cut student loan interest rates in half and crack down on lending abuses?PASSED THE HOUSE
improve and expand Head Start preschool?PASSED THE HOUSE AND SENATE
convene the National Summit on America’s Children?aligning policies with cutting-edge science?DONE
put 50,000 new police officers on the street?PASSED THE HOUSE
facilitate states in reporting criminal and mental health data for gun purchase background checks?PASSED THE HOUSE

PRESERVE OUR PLANET


by July 4th, deliver a wide-ranging Energy Independence Day initiative to strengthen our national security, create new American jobs, and reduce global warming?REPORTED TO HOUSE
repeal $14 billion in taxpayer subsidies to Big Oil to be reinvested into clean alternative energy and energy efficiency?PASSED THE HOUSE
fight gas price gouging and OPEC price fixing?PASSED THE HOUSE AND SENATE
direct $3 billion to curb global warming and spur renewable energy?PASSED THE HOUSE
develop a plan to Green the Capitol, reducing the carbon footprint 50%?DONE
expand our efforts to ensure safe drinking water?PASSED THE HOUSE

- - - - -

If you don't like that, please leave.

[puebloknot]

174. Try running that laundry list by the many people who have lost loved ones...

...in an illegal war, and see how impressed they are over those items, which are *trivial* when held up against the fact that we are losing our democratic republic. That list is a hallmark of a total failure of courage on the part of Nancy Pelosi and the Democrats she "shepherds" into doing what she wishes.

Being in favor of an increased minimum wage, and other items on that list, is simply a given in any rational society. But that PR list is simply an indication of the "fiddling while Rome burns" that Pelosi and the Dems have been offering up since they "took back the House."

Your ultimatum about leaving reminds me of an evening when I was walking in downtown Santa Fe with a Moveon group, holding a candlelight vigil for the end of the occupation of Iraq," and a rotund middle-aged woman with a heavy Texas drawl looked me squarely in the eye and said, "If you don't like George Bush, then leave."

At least you used the word "please" in your suggestion that anyone who does not agree with the premise of your post *leave*.

Here in Santa Fe, there is an upscale area where people with enough money make their homes. That area is the former location of one of the camps into which Japanese people were herded and held during WWII. It's a stark reminder of what happens when divisiveness takes hold and intolerance becomes the order of the day.

"Those who forget the past are doomed to repeat it."

[Yukari Yakumo]

195. I was counting on the "But she lost he son" argument...

Having a relative killed in combat does not one an expert in anything. It's an excuse. A sad, pathetic one at that. It denegrates the honorable dead who cannot speak for themselves. Anyone who uses the dead as a crutch for their own agenda is beyond shameless.

The question was, "What has Pelosi done?" I answered with "A whole fucking lot."

Bear in mind when the Repukes the minimum wage was never raised, and they did their damnedest to keep it from being raised in '07.

If you don't want to support Democrats and Progressive causes, then leave. This includes supporting Pelosi, who, despite Chimpy and Senate Repukes attempts to obstruct at every turn, has managed to accomplish a lot.

If you don't like it, get out.

[midnight]

30. Why is the incombent following the law?

[crimsonblue]

32. Vote to retain the weakest Speaker in modern times?

No thanks. I prefer politicians that don't toss out chunks of the Constitution because they are afraid of the backlash. Make no mistake, Pelosi is a coward. By refusing to exercise any meaningful checks on the Executive, she is giving her tacit approval. We need BETTER leaders, irregardless of party. People who will fight for American civil liberties.

[saltpoint]

60. I strongly disagree. I prefer Pelosi to Gephardt and either to Gingrich, etc.

[stimbox]

68. Thankfully you don't live here anymore. Pelosi has been a miserable failure since becoming Speaker.

She ignores her constituents.

We also have a REAL progressive Democrat running against Pelosi in the primary.

Shirley Golub

http://www.shirley08.com

So now there are two opportunities to unseat Pelosi.

[proud2BlibKansan]

8. That note to the mods -

should say "BEST news of the day"

K and R

[JohnnyCougar]

10. There's a lot better uses of her time.

I think Pelosi has done a very good job. She's not perfect, but she's also trying to maintain a Democratic majority in Congress. Why don't we attack more corporatist Democrats first rather than trying to bring down our leader?

[orleans]

16. "our leader?" you can keep her. she's no leader of mine. my leader

would have stood up and done the right thing.
my leader wouldn't have gone on a cozy little dinner date at the white house with his/her spouse.
my leader would have spoken up against the injustice.

[JohnnyCougar]

19. It will be much easier to deal with the Bush Administration after they leave office

It's just my opinion, but once they are out of power, you're going to see a lot of countries and politicians try them for war crimes. But if they are still an administration of a sitting president, it makes those kinds of cases a LOT more difficult, both from a legal and a PR perspective.

[JeanGrey]

49. Look this idea they Bush and co will be "tried" after the leave

office is simply foolish. It is never going to happen and you should know that.

[Baby Snooks]

23. Blind loyalty...

Apparently some really believe because she is the Democratic candidate, she must be supported. Blind loyalty. To a party is fine but to someone who has acted against the best interests of her own party as well as the American people?

I hope Jeb Bush doesn't decide to run for president in 2012 and runs as a Democrat. All the Republicans would vote in the primaries to make sure he became the nominee. And then all the Democrats who believe in this type of blind loyalty would join them in voting for him for president.

Sorry but Nancy Pelosi doesn't deserve the vote of anyone who still believes in the Constitution or the rights of the people.

[orleans]

24. there is a dem running against her.

http://www.shirley08.com/issues.php

[Baby Snooks]

26. Who cares?

Cindy Sheehan stood up to George W Bush and then to her own party which turned its back on her simply because she had become too "politically incorrect" with regard to Nancy Pelosi. What it came down to.

Nancy Pelosi stood up to whom? To the American people. And said "I am the decider also and impeachment is off the table."

And she did so despite the American people having given the Democrats control of the Congress and despite having given her, as Speaker of the House, a mandate to at least file for impeachment against a president who has destroyed this country in every sense of the word.

The opposing Democratic candidate is as bad as Nancy Pelosi. She talks of impeachment of a president when he will have left office as she takes office. As if she would have the power to do so even if he hadn't left office as she took office. Only the Speaker of the House has that power. Perhaps she believes that she would automatically succeed Nancy Pelosi as Speaker of the House?

Cindy Sheehan spoke for the American people. Nancy Pelosi did not.

Perhaps she should have opposed Nancy Pelosi as a Democratic candidate. But she knew and knows that the party itself would not support her against Nancy Pelosi and knew and knows that the Democratic Party itself is as corrupted at this point as the Republican Party. Neither party serves the people at this point. They serve themselves - to the exclusion of the best interests of the American people.

[clixtox]

34. I completely agree with you...

Her Royal Princess Nancy Pelosi has lost touch with the common people, although that is implying that she, at least once (or possibly twice), was sympathetic with the struggles of the working class and the poor. I don't think that was ever where she was coming from. She inherited her seat from the Burtons, John and Sala, who were truly "of and for the people".

Princess Pelosi is one of the wealthiest politicians in the House of Representatives, that and her conservative, corporate coddling, credentials are what catapulted her into the Whip and Speakership positions. She is a consummate fund raiser and cash is the "mother's milk" of USA politics. It's interesting that she comes from a dynastic political family from that bastion of selfless government, Baltimore, MD.

Princess Pelosi is aligned in many fundamental ways with the "neo-libs" and "neo-cons", those who are sanguine with our countries criminal and exploitive foreign policies, including funding illegal occupations and brutal aggression to intimidate the civilized world. These politicians are all corporate minions who do the bidding of those same fascists who have basically stolen the USA from the people and handed it over to our reigning super-rich and mega-rich over-lords and their corporate front men.

Believe it or not...

[proud2BlibKansan]

59. My leader would listen to the people

My leader would put impeachment on the table.

My leader would end the war.

Pelosi is NOT my leader. No freakin way.

[JohnnyCougar]

85. I guess it's just a matter of practicality.

I feel like impeachment proceedings would make it harder for the Dems to pick up Senate seats and the presidency this fall. I'd rather have a solid Dem majority and a Dem president then have them try to impeach Bush right now.

My guess is that after they leave office, you're going to see quite a few countries put these guys on trial for war crimes.

[proud2BlibKansan]

95. Oh I sure hope they do put them on trial

But I think we should act here in the USA. We cannot continue to ignore the crimes.

[Zachstar]

98. Because she betrayed us in my view

She was voted as speaker mainly in my view because she was a tough democrat that was supposedly the best chance for the end of war (Many in congress were voted in to end the war) and impeachment in my view.

No instead she likely accepted the flood of money that lined her pockets to say impeachment is off the table.

I want Pelosi out of congress! We can afford the loss of one democratic number in exchange for a POWERFUL indie.

[orleans]

12. well, if they had tried to do this when she first said it was off the table

then we all could have said: at least they tried. they gave it their best shot. and so much dirty shit would have come out about bush that the people would have cried out to impeach the motherfucker

instead? what do we have?

oh, fuck it. why bother talking about impeachment at all.

[guyanakoolaid]

27. Let's see... will vote to get us out of Iraq, check... will vote for impeachment, check...

Pelosi is not bulletproof because she is Speaker. Lesser centrist appeasers have already been voted out and replaced by people who value life and law, I would love to see it happen here.

[JeanGrey]

51. I never try to forget that ALL POLITICANS are politcians first,

no matter what party they are in. When has anyone ever made promises the kept? Oh you might get on or two, but in 90% of the cases, it is just talk to get elected. Have we NOT learned this?

[Name removed]

28. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[Name removed]

31. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[midnight]

29. I will say a pray for Cindy to find over ten thousand people

who want to Bring Them Home, and are willing to sign a piece of paper.

[UALRBSofL]

35. Are you crazy, you prefer spineless Pelosi??

Blind loyalty is all it is. I haven't seen "NOT ONE PERSON" in the past 7 years as vocal or willing to speak up against Bush43's war machine then I have Shehan. Not one politician or private citizen has done more to fight this megalomaniac then Shehan. How many people would go all the way to Crawford, Tx and purchase a lot right next to Bush just to be able to protest for months to speak out against the unwarranted attacks and occupation in Iraq? When Pelosi wouldn't budge on impeachment proceedings against Bush43 I lost respect for her. Pelosi has a way or a trend of backing down to Bush. Personally, I would like Kucinich as the house speaker. Talk about clean house and remove the war machine, he would be the one. Bush/Cheney/Rove et al should be held for genocide and crimes against humanity. Lock them up in the Hague. BTW, you can add Harry Reid to the Pelosi list because he's on my shit list also.

[creeksneakers2]

38. Fortunately, Cindy will likely fail

to get enough signatures to get on the ballot.

[stimbox]

71. I seriously doubt that. She'll get plenty of sigs. n/t

[Zachstar]

99. Yes anything to keep another (D) in congress right?

Sickening!

[creeksneakers2]

152. Pelosi is a great asset for the left

Cindy Sheehan is a kook. She harms the left, partly by looking so kooky.

[proud2BlibKansan]

166. LOL Just what has Pelosi done for the left?

Let's see, as a proud leftist, I know the issues we care most deeply about. And what has Pelosi done to win us over?

End the war? Not unless she did it this morning and the news hasn't come out yet.

Universal health care? Not yet. Too busy funding the war.

Impeachment? No she put that off the table right away.

Sorry, Pelosi is most certainly NOT an asset for the left. :rofl:

[dana_b]

176. oh please, think before you speak.

Pelosi refuses to hear about impeachment or hold her friend Bush accountable for anything. Cindy fights to bring the troops home AND to hold impeachment hearings. I'm on the left and I really dislike Pelosi. She's a politician through and through. Say one thing, do anohter. Cindy may be "kooky" at times, but I'd be too of I'd lost a child in this utterly disgusting farce of a war and NOONE in D.C. would take you seriously or listen to you.

[stimbox]

181. Pelosi is a great asset for the left?

Bwahhahahahahahahaha!!!!!!

Don't you mean for the center?

[onehandle]

39. Like Nader, she could have run against a lower profile person and made a difference.

Like Nader, she's using her fame to create more fame and nothing more.

Unlike Nader, she won't be a spoiler because she doesn't have a chance.

[shadowknows69]

40. I know we can't technically support Cindy's run on this board

But I'm applauding the woman for walking like she talks. May the best candidate win.

[Orsino]

42. I will.

Every damned incumbent deserves a challenge, and even if Sheehan has no chance, perhaps she can still shame Pelosi into working for actual voters instead of the president.

[shadowknows69]

44. Oh, I agree, I'm just abiding by DU rules. I wish Cindy had run as a Democrat

[Orsino]

54. The Dems won't have her.

That's a shame, as Sheehan has shown more leadership than nearly all Democrats combined.

[lunatica]

55. ditto nt

[ohio2007]

46. Pelosi will crush Cindy without using any negative ad campaign money

Sheehan is a non factor

jmo

[OzarkDem]

63. and Pelosi needs to be replaced

the current Democratic leadership in Congress has to be one of the worst in history.

Sucking up to Newt Gingrich on national tv is the last straw. She should just turn GOP for the money and get it over with.

[ohio2007]

77. But they hold the majority. Who paid to put them there ? Small buisness ?

nothing inside the beltway changes except the hot button talking points.

Proof;
start a "third party" discussion and watch how flamed you get.


http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=102&topic_id=3284885&mesg_id=3285163

[OzarkDem]

86. Not talking third party

I'm talking about my own party cleaning the incompetent, corrupt and lazy leaders out of Congress, Pronto.

[proud2BlibKansan]

64. Cindy will force Nancy to spend money and EARN votes

So will Shirley Gollub.

I applaud Cindy and Shirley for what they are doing. We need many more to stand up and challenge the Democrats who are not listening to the people. Why in the world should Democrats like Nancy Pelosi just slide back into office every two years with no opposition?

[ohio2007]

76. Just where is Cindy's war chest getting its funds from? Concerned citizens?

mark my words, save this thread;
Cindy is a non factor.

[proud2BlibKansan]

78. Mark my words

Cindy is indeed raising money. And yes she is a factor. So is Shirley. Anyone who forces a candidate to spend money is a factor.

[ohio2007]

80. I'll save the thread Jayhawk

the bets on ;)

We'll watch "the poll" #s if Cindy indeed remains in the race come late october

[proud2BlibKansan]

97. If remaining in the race means she stays on the ticket, then yes, she will remain

I can't imagine anything that would cause her to drop out.

[LynneSin]

129. Shirley might, Cindy won't

Nancy can live with the 10-20% she'll lose in votes from Cindy.

[proud2BlibKansan]

137. What makes you say that?

Have you seen poll numbers? Are you in touch with the people in Nancy's district?

[Senator]

47. Hey, Brendan! One Rationalization For Enabling Torture Ought To Be Enough.

Listing two reveals that you have no actual reason. But your answer confirms that Madame Squeaker has been reduced to impeachophobic babbling.

And FWIW, impeachment may well be the ONLY NON-divisive option.

It's certainly the only moral, patriotic one.

----

[Peggy Day]

48. I was just thinking about Iran and martial law in the US

If either one of those happen, doesn't Pelosi have blood on her hands for not doing A THING to stop him? She is definitely an enabler if nothing else.
I have never understood her position not to impeach. I'm not so sure Sheehan will be able to overtake her, but I applaud her effort. That's what we stand for.
Isn't there another lady trying to run against Pelosi too?

[OneAngryDemocrat]

50. I STAND WITH CINDY

www.shockedandawful.com

[joeybee12]

52. A few months ago I'd be against her running, as I assumed Nancy was against

the war...she might still be, but she's for Nancy first. She's been a major disappointment. Maybe this will send her a message.

[BlueCaliDem]

Exactly! Nancy buckled far too quickly under the attacks by right-wingers...

...calling her 'San Francisco Liberal".

I like Pelosi just like I like Hillary Clinton {although a little less since her Karl Rove tactics against Obama whom she is forcing to get down in the gutter in order to respond to her level of attacks} but it's time a message is sent to Congress that they work for US, NOT for the corporations and robbin barons of this country.

[Yukari Yakumo]

138. You do realize she also has to put up with the Blue Dog Dems... do you? {nt}

uguu

[BlueCaliDem]

156. Yes, I do but they're in the minority while the more progressive Dems...

...are in the majority.

Being that it's the Democratic Party, it's democratic that the majority wins. Why must the few decide the policy over the many especially when it's detrimental to our Party and the country? That's not democratic, is it?

As Housespeaker, her position is powerful and she needs to whip those blue dogs into line and punish them if they keep leaning towards the Republicans - which they have been with impunity.

You can't be all things to all people, but democratic rule means, the majority has the say-so while listening to, but not necessarily having to buckle for Blue Dems that ran on platforms of "anti-Iraq occupation" only to side with the Rep on just about everything. They need to be put on notice and if Pelosi can't do it, then it's time someone else takes the reins from her.

[Yukari Yakumo]

157. Unfortunately...

Progressive Dems do not comprise an overall majority. If we want anything passed, we must gather support from enough BDD's to ensure its passage.

[BlueCaliDem]

160. In the Senate, certainly not, but in the House they do.

There are confused, somewhat wishy-washy Dems in the House that seem close to being BDDs but their votes clearly show a more progressive nature once they know they'll at least be backed by the leaders.

If they feel they won't be, they'll take the most politically expedient way out - buckling to Republican demands even though they're in the minority.

[Yukari Yakumo]

164. No they don't.

Dem have 233 seats.
Repukes have 202 seats.
Number of Dems who identify themselves as "Blue Dog" is 48.
That leaves us with 185 Dems who don't identify themselves as a "Blue Dog". And, if you notice, that's less then the number of Repukes in office.

[BlueCaliDem]

175. I go by their votes, not by what clique they choose to identify themselves by...

...for the benefit of their normally somewhat ignorant constituency that would normally vote Republican.

Like I said, there are 'wishy-washy' Dems, but their votes are what I'm interested in, not their self-proclaimed titles, and the real Blue Dogs are in the minority.

Votes not rhetoric define who really is a Blue Dog Dem (Repub-lite) and with the Republicans being the most unpopular party for such a long time, Pelosi has leverage. It's sad she won't use it.

[Yukari Yakumo]

196. You mean to force everyone to walk lock-step like a Repuke?

You are far more ignorant than I originally thought.

Though the reality is that you're willfully ignorant. You clearly don't like the idea that Pelosi will have to orchestrate some compromises to get things done. In which case, your opinion isn't worth that much at all.

[ckramer]

53. Yes! Go Cindy!

Replace anyone who is not performing well in the leadership position.

[mcollier]

57. What could be more divisive than the current

divide we have in Washington today??? Impeachment is appropriate...

[OzarkDem]

66. Agree, we need to get Pelosi out of leadership

and if defeating her makes it happen, so be it.

[LynneSin]

74. Good - support the democrat Shirley Golub

Not the independant.

I think this is so lame of Cindy to not even attempt to get after Nancy. Cindy will get 10% of the vote and do nothing but waste our time. At least if she went after her in the primaries I'd give her respect, credit and perhaps a few dollars

[Zachstar]

100. The dems betrayed Cindy in my view WTF does she owe the party?

[LynneSin]

128. Then this is not the website to do it

DU has always been and always will be a website to support democrats. The ones with a "D" next to their name. Why not support Shirley Golub, who has pretty much the identical platform but the balls to go up against Nancy in the primaries

www.shirley08.com/

[DaDooRonRon]

65. Simply put

Cindy Sheehan has more courage and honesty in her little fingers than the enbler Pelosi has in her entire body.

I sent Cindy money once, and I will gladly do it again.

The fact that some here say that x has "no chance" against y is the same pile of horseshit that gets us the same two party I'm really bad but not as bad as the other guy so vote for me! rubbish that some here spout as gospel.

You want this war to end? You want Bush prosecuted?

Here's your choice - either walk the walk or continue with your pretend progressive politics.

Ooooh, do you think Obama playing basketball will help him in Indiana?

Ooooh, do you think Clinton will get more donations now after her win in PA?


(Quick, look over there - coffins of dead soldiers.)

[man4allcats]

84. Well said.

The more I read this board, the more I understand why Dems lose elections. To put it bluntly, whatever might be said - good or bad - about Americans of any stripe, the fact is that there is an element of John Wayne in all of them. Americans simply don't respect anyone that won't walk the walk. I used to think the charges of Dems being soft was all neocon spin, but after what I've seen during the last seven or eight years and particularly since November 2006, I realize now that there is something to it after all. In this country you can get more votes by being a hard-nosed asshole like Bush even though your policies stink of corruption only because Americans will vote for a hard ass before they'll vote for someone who's all talk and no walk. It's true that Bush's numbers are in the tank, but don't assume that means the American electorate won't vote for McNutjob in November. For the average voter, issues have less to do with it than perception, and Pelosi, Reid and the rest of the DINOs in the 110th Congress have done a great job of fostering the image of the Democratic Party as being nothing more than feckless enablers of a corrupt system. I tip my hat to anyone with the guts to stand up to these people.

[stimbox]

67. There are two chances to unseat Pelosi!!!!

In the primary on June 3rd.

Vote for Shirley Golub, she's the PROGRESSIVE candidate with a D next to her name.

http://www.shirley08.com

[LynneSin]

70. Then why isn't Shirley Golub on the front page of DU? She's the democrat

Cindy is not

[stimbox]

75. Shirley should be.

It seems too many Democrats are against her running against Pelosi.
Sad but true.

[proud2BlibKansan]

141. There have been a lot of threads about Shirley posted on DU

I would imagine they didn't get enough votes to make the front page.

[DaDooRonRon]

79. I just visited her website

All the right things are said there, but I fear that she will be compromised/crushed/made inconsequential by the Democratic party machine that wants NOTHING to do with any of her issues (see Kucinich, Dennis).

My money (in this case) goes to the lady I met in the ditches of Crawford.

I KNOW where her courage is.

[stimbox]

83. Shirley will be one more progressive in the house. Kucinich needs all the support he can get!

Shirley is running in the primary and Cindy in the general, no reason you can't support both, I do. :)

[DaDooRonRon]

112. Running under the hammer of the Democratic Party is the problem

For me, anyway.

I believe that Kucinich would be of far greater help to the country in general if he were running under an Independent banner.

Right now, he is considered by most mainstream party pols as the gnat that perpetually bothers, but is no threat to injure. I fear the same thing would happen to any progressive who hitches on to this established wagon.

The belief that one can "change" the Democratic Party by working within in it incorrect. A major party that relies on heavy corporate fund raising and is literally told by these contributors to not rock the (money and influence) boat will only allow dissension within its ranks if that dissension is of no threat whatsoever to it. If it should EVER reach the danger point it will be quashed.

One can not change an institution from the inside when the inside has no desire to be changed.

[stimbox]

180. i see you points, but i think it's better to use whatever avenues are available.

We need progressives working inside and outside of the Democratic Party to get things done.

Look how the neo-cons and the fundies changed the repuke party from the inside.

It can be done.

[DaDooRonRon]

187. The problem is that the Democratic Party does not allow progressive input

The neo-cons and fundies laid the groundwork for their "takeover" years ago, and it was done not by political will but by monetary will.

Imagine, if you will, that progressives REFUSED to back (read $$) the Democratic candidates unless they ran on a platform of true change, and not just one of "we're not them." Instead, we have fake progressives running under the Democratic banner knowing full well that a) corporate America (who bankrolls them) will not stand for anything getting in the way of the bottom line and b) they have an almost unlimited line of lemmings who will pull the lever for them simply because of the (D).

The only way to get the Democratic Party to behave as a true opposition party is to throw selected members out on their selected asses in favor of independent/third party candidates. This is the message they need to see - otherwise every vote they get, no matter how pitiful their performance, looks to them like a validation for their efforts. As far as I know, the "hold your nose" vote looks exactly like every other one, and of course the whole hold their feet to the fire line of reasoning is utter bullshit.

Once they get elected they never even get close to the matches.

[ckramer]

92. I have bookmarked your link

Wait until I have some extra money to give.

I agree on all ISSUES SHIRLEY IS ON THE TABLE FOR:

Accountability in government (impeachment)
Our House of Representatives was given the right (and obligation) in our Constitution created by our Founding Fathers to investigate and take action when improprieties have been brought to its attention. Whole books have been written on the actions of the current administration and George Bush has admitted in public that he has acted in ways inconsistent with his duties to uphold our Constitution. So Congress must act and do so expediently. To answer the question of "why bother?" - First, the world is watching what we the people do here. We no longer have allies in the world community and if we continue to be sheep we will no longer be welcome as meaningful participants. Second, if we allow lawlessness of our supposed elected officials, what kind of precedent does that set for future administrations? Even this past year, Blackwater and Halliburton have been constructing 200 "detention centers" here on American soil for the "growing domestic insurgency." And just recently, the FBI has granted permission for small businesses with security guards, under martial law, to be able to shoot at American citizens (google "infragard"). What next? - this madness must be stopped.

Bringing home the troops from Iraq (within 90 days)
There is adequate evidence that we were given flagrantly wrong information that caused many members of Congress to believe that it was necessary to invade Iraq. As a result, not only have many of our brave soldiers given the ultimate sacrifice, but many more have returned home to an inadequate care system. Plus millions of Iraqi citizens have been killed, their infrastructure destroyed and their environment polluted with depleted uranium. Is it any wonder that the remaining people are in an uproar? The longer we stay, the more we are hated. Congress has the power of the purse strings-yet, every time, this administration asks for billions more for the occupation of Iraq, our House and Senate agrees. No more! A clear plan has been set forth by Congressman Dennis Kucinich in the House to transfer authority to UN peacekeeping forces and, upon approval, bring our troops home within 90 days.

Single-payer healthcare (HR676)
Here in California, many concerned citizens have been working on sharing information on SB 840, a bill for single-payer universal health care. It is not enough to say that one is in favor of universal health care-that keeps dollars that Americans need to live on, going to the administration of insurance companies, sometimes as much as 30% of premiums. Again, Congress is sitting on a plan, (HR 676-the Conyers-Kucinich bill), that would reduce those costs down to 3-4% and provide the kind of healthcare that all the other "rich" nations of the world already have. It was recently reported that Americans rank 27th in their "healthiness" compared with the rest of the world, yet guess who spends the most?

Ending NAFTA & the WTO
What sounded like a clever idea to some, "let's employ the under-employed of the world" and lift other countries� economies, has had a devastating effect on our employment and economy here at home. And these principles are not only being applied to manufacturing jobs, in places where workers� rights and protective environmental principles are often ignored, but in the field of technology as well. Let's institute "fair" trade policies that give all countries and all workers what they deserve.

Abolishing the electoral college
When our country was founded, it was felt that this type of representation would be most helpful in having the election finished and confirmed quickly because of the great distance between voting areas. But with such a large population currently, all very well connected, it seems so much more appropriate that we simply tally the popular� vote, i.e. one voter=one vote. This prevents campaigning for our Presidential election to be focused in certain states, while virtually ignoring others. At the same time, all citizens� right to vote must be protected, from the registration process through to the tallying and transmission process, ensuring that there is no corruptible software or administrative personnel processes.

Stopping human-induced climate disruption
Our energy policies need to be examined with a fine-tooth comb. And besides our government and corporations taking responsibility for making sure we have a healthy planet, individuals will want to be more participatory in learning what habits they can change. Education at a very young age will be crucial!

[LynneSin]

73. This is bullshit this is on the front page of DU - I thought we only support Dems here

Sure, whom you vote for is your own business, but the policy is that DU supports the democratic candidates, which Cindy is NOT. There is a democrat running against Nancy, why isn't Shirley Golub on the front page.

Personally I have way more respect for Shirley because she's going directly against Cindy. I think this is a lame manuever and a total waste of time. More than likely Nancy will win but running as an independant is like "I really don't want to actually compete against Nancy, just gather up my 10% protest vote"

I hope that the moderators and/or the admins remove this post from the DU home page. I'm here to get Democrats elected and I hope that Shirley Golub gets the support of DUers here!

[Cal Carpenter]

87. There is a well-known challenger to the Dem Speaker of the House

Why wouldn't this be a major story on a Democratic website? Regardless of who it is running against her, this seems like big news to me. I don't think Sheehan has a chance to win or anything but it's still very significant. She'll certainly get her 10,000 signatures and be on the ballot.

:shrug:

[ckramer]

94. Cindy is more democratic than someone with a democrat sheepskin

Impeach the Bush sucker!

[LynneSin]

127. Then support Shirley Golub

www.shirley08.com/

This woman has the balls to go head first against Nancy. Cindy is nothing more than a coward looking for a bit of reassurance from the 10-20% votes she might get in the primaries.

[Name removed]

133. Deleted sub-thread

Sub-thread removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[proud2BlibKansan]

140. WTF?

Cindy is coward?!?!?

That's just an outrageous accusation. Completely outrageous.

I take it you were asleep in August of 2005.

[DaDooRonRon]

148. Thank you

She (Cindy) is probably one of the most courageous people I have ever met, and for someone to call her a coward simply because she doesn't march in lockstep (goosestep?) is, as you rightly put it, completely outrageous.

[proud2BlibKansan]

149. I was blessed to be with her when she announced she was running against Pelosi

It's one of my proudest moments. Talk about courage! First she challenged Bush, now she is challenging Pelosi. Just one of these actions proves she has courage. Far more than I have, that's for sure.

[LynneSin]

150. I know what's she done but I know what she's doing now

She isn't going after Nancy, she's going after validation in an election she can't win and probably won't alter the way that Nancy campaigns.

Go after her in the primary - tell the world you want to change the democratic party by being a democrat. Clearly Cindy doesn't want to do that but would prefer nothing more than an ego run for a small percentage of votes that won't affect the final outcome.

But let's say the district IS ready for change. At least with Shirley you bring someone in who is a democrat that can work with democrats to help change the party. Cindy would be nothing more than a throwaway vote for that district, something that folks in the district wouldn't want. This isn't Bernie Sanders who has spent decades building his career and probably took some lumps in the begining of it.

But sure - go chasing after windmills. But I will alert on any and all threads supporting Cindy's campaign. This website has always supported democrat candidates. Cindy is not that and should not be glorified in this website in regards to this campaign.

[proud2BlibKansan]

153. I am not supporting her campaign here

If you see posts where DUers are promoting her candidacy, then alert on them. Frankly I am surprised they have let this thread stay up.

And like I said, you need to do your homework before automatically assuming she didn't try to run as a Democrat before deciding to run as an independent. Surely you realize you can't run for office without the support of your party. If they say no and you still want to run, what do you do?

Cindy also isn't doing this to boost her ego. That is so completely out in left field. It shows you don't know her at all. Believe it or not, she just wants to hold Nancy accountable. Nothing more than that.

[Yukari Yakumo]

159. Accountable? For what?

Impeachment? That ain't gonna fly. Not only will Chimpy be almost out of office when the next session is sworn in, but also there is no hope of accomplishing anything beforehand.

End the war? How is Pelosi is going to do that? Chimpy makes the decision to keep his futile war going. Funding or no funding, he is definitely keeping us in Iraq as long as he occupies the WH.

There are plenty of hawkish Repukes in CA. Yet she decides to challenge a Dem who is the biggest fish in the pond. Why? It's clearly all for petty spite and ego. Anyone who doesn't see that needs to put the Kool-Aid down.

[LynneSin]

163. I don't know - what did Ned Lamont do when he ran against Lieberman

And NO ONE in the party wanted him to run against Joe but he did.

Of course the end didn't turn out the way we wanted it to but we were able to get Lieberman halfway out the door. Perhaps a few more democrats in the senate and we can give Jomentum the boot.

And I'm glad you see what my anger is about. I am not here to dismiss the work that Cindy has done - just pointing out that this website has never supported independant candidates.

[proud2BlibKansan]

169. But you also called Cindy a coward

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=102&topic_id=3284885&mesg_id=3285338

That, in essence, is dismissing the work she has done, since it takes great courage to challenge the establishment, as Cindy has. She is most certainly NOT a coward. You are free to choose to not support her or her candidacy. But I will call you on it when you call her a coward.

[LynneSin]

189. I said she's a coward in this race

Perhaps it was worded wrong and I can't change that.

She doesn't need the approval of the dem party to run as a dem - Ned Lamont showed us that. This race is here way of looking for a bit of an ego boost with no real payout in the end.

[proud2BlibKansan]

191. I already told you she isn't in it because of her ego.

Cindy is a friend of mine and I was there when she announced she was running. So I know exactly why she is doing this. It also takes COURAGE to challenge the speaker so both Cindy and Shirley are brave women, NOT cowards.

If you could take your party blinders off and remember we have soldiers dying every day then maybe you would get it. I know if I lived in Pelosi's district I would proudly vote against Pelosi in both the primary AND the general election. Yes, I realize she probably won't lose but it is way past time to send her a message. Human lives transcend party politics for me. They always will.

[LynneSin]

193. Whatever you believe

:D

[Zachstar]

104. Take a dump elseware LynneSin! Cindy is a hero you and Pelosi are not in my view

[LynneSin]

125. Then she should have run as a democrat

Enough said.

Read the rules - posters who support Cindy on DU will probably see their threads locked. She is not a democrat - ths place supports democrats.

You want to replace Nancy? Support Shirley Golub

www.shirley08.com/

Perhaps you should take a dump at "Independants too chickenshit to actually run against Nancy Pelosi in the democratic primary Underground". This website has never once supported an independant candidate no matter how much it was perceived as being 'more democratic' than the actual candidate.

[proud2BlibKansan]

142. SHE TRIED

The Dems rejected her.

Do your homework before you keep posting that bullshit.

[Yukari Yakumo]

161. No she didn't

Cindy never ran as a Democrat.

And the Dems rejected her when it became clear she went off the deep end.

[LynneSin]

165. The dems also rejected Ned Lamont

One doesn't need the party to come out and endorse. Or perhaps they just found Shirley Golub to be a better choice to run against Nancy.

But point taken, thanks for the info

[stimbox]

173. Bernie Sanders? n/t

[David__77]

123. I agree Sheehan should have run in the primary.

I think it would have been better on so many levels.

[proud2BlibKansan]

143. Tell that to our Democratic party.

They are the reason Cindy is running as an independent.

[proud2BlibKansan]

135. It's on the front page because it is news and it is getting votes

It's not all that hard to discuss Cindy's candidacy without promoting it.

[fascisthunter]

206. lol...

Some people just care about good people being in government and can see beyond party affiliation.

As for who I support..... Shirley Golub, but I do support Cindy's effort as well.

[LynneSin]

207. Some people don't read the policy of the Democratic Underground

This is a site that supports Democrats.

DU has supported Cindy in her cause for years but she's running as an independant which means this site won't be used to support her.

Perhaps you can find an Independant Underground if that's what you want. I'm here to work with democrats to rebuild our party. If Cindy wants to be a part of that then have the balls to run against Nancy in the primaries

[fascisthunter]

208. Perhaps You can Keep Your Advice to Yourself

since it isn't your web site. Also, I am a registered dem and I do what I want.

[LynneSin]

209. I wasn't giving you advise.......

Just stating the policy that has existed for years on this website. Thread supporting Cindy's candidacy here at DU will probably be locked. It's not 100%, a few Pro-Lieberman threads made it thru after he lost his primary, but that is the policy. Support whomever you want but the owners of DU set the policy.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

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[H8fascistcons]

89. Hey Brenden Daly!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I have news for you, Pelosi works for us and she is NOT following the will of the people, she is noting more than a criminal Fascist enabler and has to go. Start looking for another job you lackey, get the hell out of our government, GO Cindy GO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!. The ilk of Pelosi and her fellow criminal Fascist enablers, Harry Reid, Rahm Emanuel, Ted Kennedy, Steny Hoyer are just as big an enemy to America as the criminal Fascist republicans... They all have to go. NOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Sam Ervin jret]

91. We have too many "politicians" in congress. It was meant for the citizens

Go get that seat CINDY!!!!

[iamthebandfanman]

102. i still think its a bad idea.

she really should wait and get some more experience in running for office n take her on next election cycle.

i really dont think now is very good timing.

[Zachstar]

105. It is great timing because it sends a message that idiots that enable the destruction of America

Get challenged for their seats their presidency etc...

Time to STOP saying whatever means a (D) next to them. Democrats have had hard lesson taught to them by giving congress a speaker of the house that is next to completely owned by the neocons.

[iamthebandfanman]

122. im just trying to be practical, thats all.

[Cant trust em]

108. Thanks, Cindy. Let's keep the pressure on.

She might not win, but I hope she gets at least a significant percentage of the vote.

[Zachstar]

126. Amen!

If anything it would atleast put lots of pressure on our so called speaker so that once Obama is sworn in she will be less likely to stonewall his change efforts!

[lunatica]

109. I would vote for her

Even if it's just to send Nancy Pelosi a message

[davidwparker]

110. I thought she was running officially already. Good for her. I'm interested

seeing how may Bay-area "liberals" approve of illegal wars of aggression, torture, and abusing the Constitution. If you're a Dem and you vote for Pelosi, you are just as guilty as your vote expresses your approval.

If you cannot bring yourself to vote for Cindy and unseat Pelosi, then leave the choice blank. That sends a message to Pelosi as well.

[Better Believe It]

115. Good For Cindy!

Would vote for her but don't live in district.

[davidwparker]

144. same here. This is why I'm so interested in the 2008 elections. What will

the left accept from its leaders and will it hold the source of the problems accountable.

[raystorm7]

116. Where do I donate?

[Zachstar]

124. Looks like you can do so here

http://www.cindyforcongress.org/

[jeff30997]

117. If they both invited me to dinner I would go with Cindy Sheehan .

At least with her there would be something on the table.

[lunatica]

118. Here's her campaign website

http://www.cindyforcongress.org/

[NJSecularist]

119. California's 8th Congressional district is one of the most liberal districts in America.

Yet Sheehan will be lucky to break 20% against Pelosi. Pelosi has the seat for life if she wants it. Nobody, not even Sheehan, will give her a tough fight.

[tomp]

120. as i understand it golub has an excellent platform.

why would cindy not get behind shirley instead of splitting the vote? it seems strategically quite foolish. am i missing something?

[proud2BlibKansan]

145. Cindy announced first; that's why

Shirley just joined the race a few months ago. Cindy announced last July.

[tomp]

205. and?...first come, first served is a good strategy...

...for defeating the incumbent speaker of the house? are you suggesting golub should withdraw and support the independent? i'm a big supporter of cindy but i want pelosi out, period. what's the best way to accomplish that?

[defendandprotect]

121. Hope Cindy is in and Pelosi out --- we need less Dem elitism in Congress .... and more Cindy's ....

And who should the next Dem speaker be?

And anyone want to see Reid carry on in the Senate as Majority leader?

Haven't those two been, let's say . . . less than successful at what we elected them to do?

[Clintonista2]

130. Where can I donate to Cindy?

[Senator]

131. Cindy's Run Could Boost Shirley Golub Just Enough

Cindy will likely garner a good bit of media there. And many will feel the duty to make mention of the primary that's ongoing.

Something like this can be all a primary challenger needs. For just enough people to notice and lodge that protest vote -- when it's safest.

---

[LWolf]

136. That's an interesting take.

I wish I could vote for Golub.

I've wondered if Sheehan and Golub have talked at all.

[Maineman]

139. Yes for Cindy !

Sorry I am not in her district. It is my understanding that Pelosi is a big money, oil company involved politician. She took impeachment off the table in advance. She has not defended the Constitution. I guess she forgot her oath of office, right?

[ooglymoogly]

146. Go Cindy

I hope she can win...but even if she does not it will shake Pelosi up and that is what is badly needed. Pelosi has lost touch with reality.

[Yukari Yakumo]

147. Cindy, please go away...

You're an idiot. It's become obvious you're no longer work for the message, but for yourself. Instead of working to end the war, you do things out of petty revenge and spite. Thankfully, the only ones who still support you are the radical fringe who live in a Fantasyland and are too ignorant to notice what has been accomplished in Congress and how Congress really is run. And worse, you, Cindy, are an attention whore. Riddle me this, if you're not doing this for the attention, then why are you going after the highest profile Dem in the House? You don't even live in her district, and there are plenty of other Rethugs ripe for a challenge. My only hope is that your pathetic run will financially bankrupt you.

Why has impeachment not been moved forward? Easy. The 50 Rethug jackasses in the Senate. If, by some miracle, impeachment passes the House, the Rethugs in the Senate will never vote to convict. And then what would we have accomplished? Nothing, save for re-energizing the Rethug voting base.

[stimbox]

170. Cindy does live here now! It's good to have her here in SF and running in the election. n/t

[bushesass]

199. And who does Pelosi work for?

She has done nothing, nada,zip to end this war or impeach this disaster of administration. It sounds like you are blaming the wrong one my friend. At least Cindy has stood up which is more than some have done. Nancy talks tough but when it come down to brass tacks kisses the Bush admin ass!

[Lydia Leftcoast]

154. Pelosi has been a weak Speaker and needs someone to prod her into

taking stronger positions. (And yes. I KNOW that Cindy wouldn't get the Speakership...)

But Sheehan will force Pelosi to face some pressure from the Left instead of just being able to count on the Left vote, and that is a good thing.

[Timothy Gatto]

158. Cindy Should re-think this

Shirley Golub is trying to mount a challenge for Pelosi's spot on the Dem Ticket. if she pulls it off, Sheehan should think twice about the Congressional seat. If Pelosi wins, then Cindy should run full speed!

[proud2BlibKansan]

162. Cindy announced first and months before Shirley.

Shirley is the one who should have thought twice.

[Zachstar]

167. That is possible.

Cindy is running a protest campaign against Pelosi so if Pelosi is defeated I agree she ought to consider another way.


Obama needs to give her a job helping the troops as they return.

[4waterfalls]

182. "impeachment is off the table"

Pelosi " impeachment is off the table"

To chip away at the status quo,people need to be willing to let go of old habits..like believing only insiders like Pelosi can lead.Alot of good she has done ,eh? Just say no..to the status quo!!!
:think:
Go Sheehan

[muryan]

188. Impeachment hearings would guarentee

a republican congress and republican white house for the next 8 years. Most democratic politicians realize this, and as such are choosing to work towards victory in 08

[ogsbee]

190. In what universe?

Does the good name of America mean anything to you?

[Yukari Yakumo]

198. In this one.

Impeachment would likely fail in the House. So, what good does a failed attempt at impeachment bring? Aside from revitalizing a demoralized Repuke voting base just in time for the '08 elections...

[dflprincess]

197. Having a little competition may be good for Pelosi

Even if she knows she'll still win, it might shake her up a bit if some of her past support goes over to Cindy. It might make her realize that she could be vulnerable if the right Democrat came along and perhaps it will make her more responsive to the people.

[unkachuck]

200. in a democracy....

....don't you think it's everyone's patriotic duty to run for public office, to help improve our country when our country needs improving?....and Cindy being the true patriot, has to run....

....at heart, Cindy is as much a real Democrat as you or I, maybe even more so....the question is, 'Would a Cindy candidacy ever be welcome in the Party by the trans-party corporatists who would do everything in their power to cripple her chances?'....the answer is: no.

....so why play their game?....just, Go Cindy Go!

[alittlelark]

202. Shirley Golub has been doing a great job so far.

http://www.shirley08.com/

Sheehan is not in the district.

I understand the sentiment - But I go to Shirleys 'table'.

[candice]

203. She may not have an opponent if rumors about Nancy being Obama's VP are true.

Pelosi has been such an Obama fanatic (without bothering to vet him) that she may just go down with him.

[LynneSin]

204. wait, you didn't read this thread did you?

Shirley Golub is running against Nancy. If Nancy were to be a VP candidate then I'm sure the dem party will either run Golub (who has an almost identical platform to Cindy) or find another candidate.