US election: live
Written By:
- Date published:
1:58 pm, November 7th, 2012 - 64 comments
Categories: us politics -
Tags: barack obama, mitt romney
17:12: Obama wins
As I’m stuck in a hotel room in the US, with cable TV, fast internet and not a lot else, I might as well keep you up to date with what’s happening. It’s been an incredibly negative campaign – $2.5 billion spent on the presidential race at last count, mostly on deriding the other guy. I’ve spent most of the last month here, and at all levels (state auditor, attorney general, governor, senator, president etc) the ads on TV have been about how the other guy has no judgement, people hate him, and he wants higher taxes. I’ve seen a sum total of 1 positive ad. The ads from the billionaires downing Obama continue today; I’m in a very Democratic state and Obama doesn’t seem to have bought ads here to compare… With unemployment at 7.9%, and the relentless running down he’s received, you can see why Hope shriveled.
Still, the Oracle, Nate Silver has Obama at 91% odds to win. I’ll try and keep an eye on all the close races – because who controls the Senate and the House matter very much too.
——–
State of the Race: (what counts are 538 electoral college votes – largely allocated per state)
Actual: Obama – 303 Romney – 206 just Florida to come
(270 electoral college votes to win) Vote Share so far: Obama 50% Romney 49%
Predicted: Obama – 237 Romney – 191 Tossup – 110
Senate: Democrats – 52 (+2 Ind) Republicans – 44
(previously 53-47, predict 53-47 or 49D-44R-7 Toss up) [currently D+2]
House: Democrats – 170 Republicans – 226 (218 to win)
(previously 193-242, predict 178D-224R-33 Toss up) [currently D+3]
——–
13:56 (NZ time): CNN’s various political sections have been sponsored by the Coal Industry and the Oil Industry (“my name’s x, and I’m an Energy Voter”), with Natural Gas Industry ads sandwiched inbetween – at least we don’t have that in Aotearoa. I’m flicking between all the major channels to see how they’re calling it.
14:00: Vermont in for Obama; Kentucky, Indiana, West Virginia, South Carolina for Romney
Virginia dead heat in exit polls. ABC’s projected additional states put race at 57 Obama : 40 Romney. Still thousands lined up to vote in Virginia – if you’re there before voting closes, you get your chance…
14:05: NBC project Senate up to 37D : 39R so far. 64 Obama : 82 Romney on their projected states
Florida early vote has 50% Obama, 49% Romney, up by 50,000 votes
14:24: Obama still ahead in Florida with 53% counted, but it’s basically dead-heat. Virginia less vote, but also still dead heat. Ohio vote in teens, Obama with lead but early days… Fox is projecting Obama 78 Romney 82
14:31: 20% of Ohio vote in 59% Obama to 40% Romney; 51% Obama to 48% in Florida after 56% of vote; 57% Romney 42% Obama in Virginia after 26% (ABC)
14:50: Florida 62% in, Obama up by 100,000, 50% – 49%; Virginia 32% of vote 55% Romney, Obama 44% – still queues there. Voting massively up in both Republican & Democratic areas…
14 states about to finish voting.
15:02: And the networks immediately project a whole bunch more. Because Arkansas and Texas aren’t really in doubt…
15:12: NBC Project a House of 194 to 241 – a net gain of 1 seat to the Democrats… (+/-11). Currently D+1 in Senate.
15:30: Obama currently 80,000 behind in Virginia and North Carolina, 160,000 in Ohio, and 636 behind in Florida – quite close…
15:31: Obama ahead by 1,200 in Florida now… 82% reported.
Democrats currently looking like picking up Massachusetts and Indiana in the Senate.
15:35: Obama leading Colorado (51%-47%; 47% counted) and New Hampshire (55%-44%; 16% counted). Although they appear to still the odd vote being cast there.
15:40: Big call – Pennsylvania (where Romney was still campaigning today) with its 20 votes goes Obama’s way.
15:44: Florida 83% in, Obama 29,000 votes up.
Forgot to say – exit polls gave it to Obama a couple of hours ago… but actual votes are what matters. NBC has Obama on 158, but I’m still working out what their extra 15 are… (Minnesota & New Mexico?)
15:50: Massachusetts legalise medical marijuana. Washington, Oregon & Colorado are looking at outright legalisation for-over 21s (plus taxed etc). No results on those yet, but it’d still be illegal at federal level. ie the FBI could arrest you but state and local police couldn’t…
NBC – New Hampshire to Obama. Up to 162.
15:55: 4 more states about to close. Obama team confident about Florida, as they think they’ve got more of their counties to come in.
15:58: Still 51%-47% to Romney in Virginia. Romney just ahead in Wisconsin after 11% of vote.
16:00: Utah to Romney. CNN exit polls for Iowa & Nevada put Obama ahead by 6%
Obama still ahead by 40,000 votes in Florida with 86% in.
16:03: CNN are about the last to give New Hampshire to Obama. Still only 22% in there, but Obama leads by 11%. It was where Romney started and finished his campaign and where his holiday home is…
16:05: Half the vote in in Ohio – Obama still 51% to 47%. We’re all about Ohio tonight. Romney really needs to win it to have a chance.
Florida getting a lot of attention because it’s so close – and if Romney loses that he’s really struggling.
Virginia 65% in – Romney leading 51% to 48%
16:15: Ohio and Missouri have stayed with the Democrats in the Senate. Missouri – like Indiana – had Republicans who should have won, but made horrific comments about rape – and have lost. The Democrats will now keep the Senate. There are a couple of other very tight races they’re waiting on.
16:18: Florida looks like it will go Democrat. The Democrat & Republican commentator both can’t see how Romney will pull Florida back with Democrat areas to come in. And with Florida goes Romney’s chances. The Republican is sounding quite depressed.
16:25: Ohio 50% Obama – 48% Romney; 58% in
Colorado 51% Obama – 47% Romney; 58% in
Virginia 48% Obama – 51% Romney; 68% in
North Carolina 49% Obama – 50% Romney; 94% in
Florida 50% Obama – 49% Romney; 87% in
Wisconsin 48% Obama – 51% Romney; 23% in
Iowa Obama well ahead.
16:30: Despite his being behind in Wisconsin – Romney’s running mate’s home state – ABC call Wisconsin for Obama.
16:40: Massive gender gap – Obama leads among women by 11%
Obama still leads by 16,000 votes in Florida; 88% in. Still people queuing to vote in Miami where most votes to count remain – a massively Democratic area. (That’s 16,000 out of nearly 8 million votes)
16:44: Romney is doing better than Bush 04 for white men, white women, old men, old women… and losing.
Obama only getting 38% of whites in Florida – but looks like he’ll make it. Republican coalition is dying out.
16:46: Obama ticks over the extra Maine vote to go to 173. 5 States still awaiting the end of voting.
ABC call Arizona for Romney. Neck-and-neck, but the West Coast is about to come in for Obama…
16:55: Elizabeth Warren doing her Senate victory speech in Massachusetts.
And NBC are projecting Virginia’s very tight Senate race to go to the Democrats – does that bode well for Obama there?
Their House projection is now up to 196 Democrats (still losing it though…)
17:00: Next wave of states close: 55 votes from California, 12 from Washington, 4 from Hawaii all going to Obama. Idaho’s 4 go to Romney. Too early to call Oregon.
90% in, Obama still ahead in Florida by 50,000.
17:03: Democrats have 51 in the Senate.
98% in in North Carolina – apparent win to Romney.
17:09: Obama keeps Iowa. Only Ohio or Florida needed.
In fact once Nevada & Oregon come in for Ohio, he only needs Colorado.
17:12: Ohio comes in for Obama – he’s won. The auto-bailout wins it for Obama according to NBC.
17:15: Oregon in for Obama.
17:20: ABC still haven’t called it. CNN & Fox have it.
Obama tweets: we’re all in this together. thank you.
17:29: Romney camp waiting to be more sure about Ohio (only 73% in) before they make the call…
Obama now ahead in Virginia.
17:32: ABC’s called it. Even BBC’s called it…
17:40: Interesting Ballot measures across the States. Looks like Washington State will legalise marijuana and same-sex marriage. Colorado legalise marijuana, Maryland and Maine legalise same-sex marriage. Some states limiting Obamacare, others rejecting such measures.
17:43: Nevada comes in for Obama. Along with some nasty Republican messages about how he doesn’t have a mandate, as half the country doesn’t want or trust him… $300 million spent by Republican “Super PACs” on Senate races alone – and they look to have lost seats there.
17:45: Obama has 56 days to get Congress to agree measures to avoid the fiscal cliff of the Government running out of money… Easy start to his second term then.
Obama and team not talking to media – want to have speech be the supporters moment.
17:50: Romney currently ahead in Ohio… (by 2,000, but behind in Florida by 50,000 and Virginia by 20,000)
17:59: Obama looks to have Colorado, but they’re not calling it yet.
Ohio – 750,000 votes to come from Democrat counties, 140,000 votes from Republican counties, Romney ahead by 6,000 currently
Florida – Obama ahead by almost 50,000 and all 150,000 votes left are from Miami, where he leads by 25%
Virginia – Obama ahead by 50,000 with not too many more to count.
18:06: Romney still slightly ahead on popular vote, but a lot of California to count – projected to win by about 1%
Latino vote 69% to 29% to Obama
18:09: Looks like Republicans will pick up 1 Governorship (up to 30 states)
Colorado to Obama – another 9 electoral college votes.
18:18: Obama back up by 23,000 in Ohio, with still lots of his votes to come in. Similar stories in Florida & Virginia, but a while before they’re all counted.
Alaska still voting… Romney still waiting before conceding…
18:34: We’re petering out now. General chat about gay marriage being supported now (with a change in short time) – but big red state blue state difference. Similarly on women’s issues and how that affects the red-blue divide…
Actually not sure what Romney’s waiting for – Obama’s won with or without Ohio, Virginia & Florida (and probably has all 3)
18:38: Obama finally ahead on popular vote.
18:41: CNN call Virginia for Obama.
Still very quiet at Romney headquarters. Has been for a while now, although apparently crowd’s been increasing. Still nobody’s heard from Romney. Ryan is in the hotel next door. Romney had apparently only written a victory speech so he’s probably quickly writing a new one…
18:42: Obama first over 50,000,000 votes.
Medical Marijuana yes in Massachusetts, no in Arkansas
Full legalisation yes in Colorado, no in Oregon
Same-sex Marriage – having been banned in 33 previous state votes – looks like going 4 from 4 in the ballot initiatives tonight.
18:52: Hoping for Romney’s speech soon apparently.
Short polite phone call between Romney & Obama apparently, prepared to concede.
A minute or so away now – he’s with his wife, 5 sons and 18 grandchildren…
Here he comes…
18:55: Wishes Obama, his wife and daughters well. Hopes & prays they are successful in guiding the USA.
Thanks Paul Ryan, his wife, sons, campaign team, volunteers, …
“Ann would have been a great first lady; she’s been a great first lady to me through my life” Aw, shucks, Mitt.
Leaders must reach across the aisle apparently – be good to see if the Republicans in Congress follow that advice…
“Thank-you and God Bless America.” Short & sweet.
Obama ahead by 260,000 in popular vote now.
19:04: Still no Republican winning president since 1928 without a Bush or Richard Nixon on the ticket…
Obama voters – White in 2008: 43%; 2012: 40%
Non-White 2008: 80%; 2012: 80%
2012 Women: 55% (43% Romney); Men: 45% (52% Romney)
19:08: Crowd trying to call Obama to the podium in Chicago. It’s a party!
Obama won Washington DC by 91% to 7%…
19:15: Obama coming up (brought to you by Red Lobster restaurants apparently…)
Michelle Bachmann’s Congress seat is on a knife-edge apparently.
CNN’s called Florida for Obama – oop, no they haven’t, just talking as though they have… but not officially called
Still impressed with the Rhode Island Senator’s name – Whitehouse. he has to make a run for president.
Wisconsin has elected the first openly gay senator. There will now be 19 or 20 female senators – also a high.
Wisconsin’s senator and Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts will be far to the left of the current Senate.
Hispanics hit 10% of voters for first time – 71% voted for Obama.
19:30: Republicans tick past the 218 needed to control the House, unsurprisingly.
Big call on ABC – with the changing demographics, this may be last election that we have 2 white guys running against each other for president…
Ah… umm… Barack Obama…
19:35: Obama on stage… Here he comes… (Crowd goes wild, Signed Sealed Delivered playing..)
Whole photogenic family out (man his daughters have got tall!)
Thanking the American people. Whether they held Obama signs or Romney signs.
And Mitt’s getting some kudos.
Joe Biden’s getting lots of love.
Michelle, I’ve never loved you more…
Sasha & Malia aren’t getting another dog.
Lovely speech of a wonderful world (no need for specifics 😉 )
Climate Change got a mention – and a cheer.
Tolerance, moving on from war to peace, education for all…
A decade war of is over…
Whether I earned your vote or not, I listened and you’ve made me a better president…
I go back into office more energised and more determined than ever.
The role of citizen doesn’t end with your vote
It’s not what can be done for us, but what can be done by us
We have more wealth than any other country, but that’s not what makes us rich; we have the mightiest military the world has seen, but that’s not what makes us strong… He’s at his rhetorical best.
It’s not short, but it is inspirational, this America place sounds amazing…
Speech streamed live on mittromney.com apparently.
20:03: Looks like Heidi Heitkamp might win North Dakota against the odds (92.5% she wouldn’t according Nate Silver – no polls has picked her since the start of June). That’s a really good night in the Senate for the Dems, and 20 women in the Senate.
20:07: Very optimistic Obama, very different from 4 years ago. More like 2004 Democratic Conference Obama from when he first made the national stage.
CNN pundit: Barack may mean ‘blessed’, but he had the economy collapse in his first week, a hurricane in his last week, and not a lot of easy days inbetween…
Romney-Ryan hall is empty.
20:12: Obama up by more than 1,000,000 votes in popular vote. Only lost 2 incredibly Republican states from his wins last time.
Up by 65,000 votes in Florida, with 3% left. They’re not counting them tonight, so we won’t get a call on it tonight.
So presidential map looks pretty much exactly as Nate Silver called it with his maths. Everything called right, including Florida being too close to call, with slight advantage Obama (he had 50.3% chance of Obama winning…)
Could well be a couple of misses on his Senate map.
Previous high of 17 Senate women is shattered as they will have 20 or 21 – still somewhat off parity obviously…
New Hampshire’s 2 women Senators weren’t up for election, but their 2 Congress reps and their Governor are all newly (Democrat) women tonight.
Virginia had a ballot measure to require a vaginal probe(!) before any chance of an abortion – soundly defeated, as were a number of other anti-abortion and similar measures across the states. Looks like the conservative right over-played their hand and ended up activating their opposition – may have helped Virginia go Democrat for both President and Senate.
20:39: Righty, not much more to come, so I’m going to sign off and enjoy the Colbert Report live special.
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- More tax for lessEle Ludemann writes – New Zealanders had the OECD’s second highest tax increase last year: New Zealanders faced the second-biggest tax raises in the developed world last year, the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) says. The intergovernmental agency said the average change in personal income tax ...4 days ago
- Real News vs Fake News.
We all know something’s not right with our elections. The spread of misinformation, people being targeted with soundbites and emotional triggers that ignore the facts, even the truth, and influence their votes.The use of technology to produce deep fakes. How can you tell if something is real or not? Can ...4 days ago - Another way to roll
Hello! Here comes the Saturday edition of More Than A Feilding, catching you up on the past week’s editions.Share ...4 days ago - Simon Clark: The climate lies you'll hear this yearThis video includes conclusions of the creator climate scientist Dr. Simon Clark. It is presented to our readers as an informed perspective. Please see video description for references (if any). This year you will be lied to! Simon Clark helps prebunk some misleading statements you'll hear about climate. The video includes ...5 days ago
- Cutting the Public Service
It is all very well cutting the backrooms of public agencies but it may compromise the frontlines. One of the frustrations of the Productivity Commission’s 2017 review of universities is that while it observed that their non-academic staff were increasing faster than their academic staff, it did not bother to ...5 days ago - Luxon’s demoted ministers might take comfort from the British politician who bounced back after th...Buzz from the Beehive Two speeches delivered by Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters at Anzac Day ceremonies in Turkey are the only new posts on the government’s official website since the PM announced his Cabinet shake-up. In one of the speeches, Peters stated the obvious: we live in a troubled ...5 days ago
- This is how I roll over
1. Which of these would you not expect to read in The Waikato Invader?a. Luxon is here to do business, don’t you worry about thatb. Mr KPI expects results, and you better believe itc. This decisive man of action is getting me all hot and excitedd. Melissa Lee is how ...5 days ago - The Waitangi Tribunal is not “a roving Commission”……it has a restricted jurisdiction which must not be abused: it is not an inquisition NOTE – this article was published before the High Court ruled that Karen Chhour does not have to appear before the Waitangi Tribunal Gary Judd writes – The High Court ...5 days ago
- Is Oranga Tamariki guilty of neglect?Lindsay Mitchell writes – One of reasons Oranga Tamariki exists is to prevent child neglect. But could the organisation itself be guilty of the same? Oranga Tamariki’s statistics show a decrease in the number and age of children in care. “There are less children ...5 days ago
- Three Strikes saw lower reoffendingDavid Farrar writes: Graeme Edgeler wrote in 2017: In the first five years after three strikes came into effect 5248 offenders received a ‘first strike’ (that is, a “stage-1 conviction” under the three strikes sentencing regime), and 68 offenders received a ‘second strike’. In the five years prior to ...5 days ago
- Luxon’s ruthless show of strength is perfect for our angry eraBryce Edwards writes – Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has surprised everyone with his ruthlessness in sacking two of his ministers from their crucial portfolios. Removing ministers for poor performance after only five months in the job just doesn’t normally happen in politics. That’s refreshing and will be extremely ...5 days ago
- 'Lacks attention to detail and is creating double-standards.'TL;DR: These are the six things that stood out to me in news and commentary on Aotearoa-NZ’s political economy in the two days to 6:06am on Thursday, April 25:Politics: PM Christopher Luxon has set up a dual standard for ministerial competence by demoting two National Cabinet ministers while leaving also-struggling ...6 days ago
- One Night Only!Hi,Today I mainly want to share some of your thoughts about the recent piece I wrote about success and failure, and the forces that seemingly guide our lives. But first, a quick bit of housekeeping: I am doing a Webworm popup in Los Angeles on Saturday May 11 at 2pm. ...6 days ago
- What did Melissa Lee do?It is hard to see what Melissa Lee might have done to “save” the media. National went into the election with no public media policy and appears not to have developed one subsequently. Lee claimed that she had prepared a policy paper before the election but it had been decided ...6 days ago
- Skeptical Science New Research for Week #17 2024Open access notables Ice acceleration and rotation in the Greenland Ice Sheet interior in recent decades, Løkkegaard et al., Communications Earth & Environment: In the past two decades, mass loss from the Greenland ice sheet has accelerated, partly due to the speedup of glaciers. However, uncertainty in speed derived from satellite products ...6 days ago
- Maori Party (with “disgust”) draws attention to Chhour’s race after the High Court rules on Wa...Buzz from the Beehive A statement from Children’s Minister Karen Chhour – yet to be posted on the Government’s official website – arrived in Point of Order’s email in-tray last night. It welcomes the High Court ruling on whether the Waitangi Tribunal can demand she appear before it. It does ...6 days ago
- Who’s Going Up The Media Mountain?Mr Bombastic: Ironically, the media the academic experts wanted is, in many ways, the media they got. In place of the tyrannical editors of yesteryear, advancing without fear or favour the interests of the ruling class; the New Zealand news media of today boasts a troop of enlightened journalists dedicated to ...6 days ago
- “That's how I roll”
It's hard times try to make a livingYou wake up every morning in the unforgivingOut there somewhere in the cityThere's people living lives without mercy or pityI feel good, yeah I'm feeling fineI feel better then I have for the longest timeI think these pills have been good for meI ...6 days ago - “Comity” versus the rule of lawIn 1974, the US Supreme Court issued its decision in United States v. Nixon, finding that the President was not a King, but was subject to the law and was required to turn over the evidence of his wrongdoing to the courts. It was a landmark decision for the rule ...7 days ago
- Aotearoa: a live lab for failed Right-wing socio-economic zombie experiments once more…
Every day now just seems to bring in more fresh meat for the grinder. In their relentlessly ideological drive to cut back on the “excessive bloat” (as they see it) of the previous Labour-led government, on the mountains of evidence accumulated in such a short period of time do not ...7 days ago - Water is at the heart of farmers’ struggle to survive in BeninThis is a re-post from Yale Climate Connections by Megan Valére Sosou Market gardening site of the Itchèléré de Itagui agricultural cooperative in Dassa-Zoumè (Image credit: Megan Valère Sossou) For the residents of Dassa-Zoumè, a city in the West African country of Benin, choosing between drinking water and having enough ...1 week ago
- At a time of media turmoil, Melissa had nothing to proclaim as Minister – and now she has been dem...Buzz from the Beehive
Melissa Lee – as may be discerned from the screenshot above – has not been demoted for doing something seriously wrong as Minister of ... 1 week ago - These people are not our friends
Morning in London Mother hugs beloved daughter outside the converted shoe factory in which she is living.Afternoon in London Travelling writer takes himself and his wrist down to A&E, just to be sure. Read more ...1 week ago
- Release: 130,000 cattle saved from live export
Labour is calling for the Government to urgently rethink its coalition commitment to restart live animal exports, Labour animal welfare spokesperson Rachel Boyack said. ...4 hours ago - Central Bank makes clear Government is pouring fuel on housing crisis fire
Today’s Financial Stability Report has once again highlighted that poverty and deep inequality are political choices - and this Government is choosing to make them worse. ...5 hours ago - New unemployment figures paint bleak pictureThe Green Party is calling on the Government to do more for our households in most need as unemployment rises and the cost of living crisis endures. ...6 hours ago
- Release: National’s job cuts already starting to bite as unemployment risesUnemployment is on the rise and it’s only going to get worse under this Government, Labour finance spokesperson Barbara Edmonds said. Stats NZ figures show the unemployment rate grew to 4.3 percent in the March quarter from 4 percent in the December quarter. “This is the second rise in unemployment ...6 hours ago
- Release: National hiking transport costs for families and young New ZealandersWeekly expenses will grow for more than 1.6 million New Zealanders as the Government ends free and half price public transport fares tomorrow. ...1 day ago
- Release: Labour welcomes EU free trade agreementThe New Zealand Labour Party welcomes the entering into force of the European Union and New Zealand free trade agreement. This agreement opens the door for a huge increase in trade opportunities with a market of 450 million people who are high value discerning consumers of New Zealand goods and ...1 day ago
- Surprise: Landlord tax cuts don’t trickle downThe Green Party is renewing its call for rent controls following reports of rental prices hitting an all-time high. ...1 day ago
- Release: $1.7b for no increase in access to medicineThe National-led Government continues its fiscal jiggery pokery with its Pharmac announcement today, Labour Health spokesperson Ayesha Verrall says. “The government has increased Pharmac funding but conceded it will only make minimal increases in access to medicine”, said Ayesha Verrall “This is far from the bold promises made to fund ...1 day ago
- Release: National should heed Tribunal warning and scrap coalition commitment with ACTThis afternoon’s interim Waitangi Tribunal report must be taken seriously as it affects our most vulnerable children, Labour children’s spokesperson Willow-Jean Prime. ...2 days ago
- Release: More accountability for preventable workplace deaths this Workers’ Memorial DayLabour is calling for more accountability for preventable workplace deaths because everybody who goes to work deserves to come home safely. ...2 days ago
- Gaza: Aotearoa Must Support Independent Investigation into Mass GravesTe Pāti Māori are demanding the New Zealand Government support an international independent investigation into mass graves that have been uncovered at two hospitals on the Gaza strip, following weeks of assault by Israeli troops. Among the 392 bodies that have been recovered, are children and elderly civilians. Many of ...5 days ago
- Release: Working together on consistent support for veterans this Anzac DayOur two-tiered system for veterans’ support is out of step with our closest partners, and all parties in Parliament should work together to fix it, Labour veterans’ affairs spokesperson Greg O’Connor said. ...1 week ago
- Release: Penny drops – but what about Seymour and Peters?Stripping two Ministers of their portfolios just six months into the job shows Christopher Luxon’s management style is lacking, Labour Leader Chris Hipkins said. ...1 week ago
- Another ‘Stolen Generation’ enabled by court ruling on Waitangi Tribunal summonsTonight’s court decision to overturn the summons of the Children’s Minister has enabled the Crown to continue making decisions about Māori without evidence, says Te Pāti Māori spokesperson for Children, Mariameno Kapa-Kingi. “The judicial system has this evening told the nation that this government can do whatever they want when ...1 week ago
- Release: Budget blunder shows Nicola Willis could cut recovery fundingIt appears Nicola Willis is about to pull the rug out from under the feet of local communities still dealing with the aftermath of last year’s severe weather, and local councils relying on funding to build back from these disasters. ...1 week ago
- Further environmental mismanagement on the cardsThe Government’s resource management reforms will add to the heavy and ever-growing burden this Government is loading on to our environment. ...1 week ago
- Release: RMA changes will be a disaster for environmentThe Government is making short-sighted changes to the Resource Management Act (RMA) that will take away environmental protection in favour of short-term profits, Labour’s environment spokesperson Rachel Brooking said today. ...1 week ago
- Release: Labour supports urgent changes to emergency management systemLabour welcomes the release of the report into the North Island weather events and looks forward to working with the Government to ensure that New Zealand is as prepared as it can be for the next natural disaster. ...1 week ago
- Release: Labour calls for New Zealand to recognise PalestineThe Labour Party has called for the New Zealand Government to recognise Palestine, as a material step towards progressing the two-State solution needed to achieve a lasting peace in the region. ...1 week ago
- Release: Three strikes law political posturing of worst kindThe Government is bringing back a law that has little evidential backing just to look tough, Labour justice spokesperson Duncan Webb said. ...1 week ago
- Release: Government cuts unbelievably target child exploitation, violent extremism, ports and airpor...Some of our country’s most important work, stopping the sexual exploitation of children and violent extremism could go along with staff on the frontline at ports and airports. ...1 week ago
- Three strikes has failed before and will fail againResurrecting the archaic three-strikes legislation is an unwelcome return to a failed American-style approach to justice. ...1 week ago
- Release: Environmental protection vital, not ‘onerous’The Government’s Fast Track Approvals Bill will give projects such as new coal mines a ‘get out of jail free’ card to wreak havoc on the environment, Labour Leader Chris Hipkins said today. ...1 week ago
- Ferris – Three Strikes targets those ‘too brown to be white’The government's decision to reintroduce Three Strikes is a destructive and ineffective piece of law-making that will only exacerbate an inherently biased and racist criminal justice system, said Te Pāti Māori Justice Spokesperson, Tākuta Ferris, today. During the time Three Strikes was in place in Aotearoa, Māori and Pasifika received ...1 week ago
- Release: Govt cuts doctors and nurses in hiring freezeCuts to frontline hospital staff are not only a broken election promise, it shows the reckless tax cuts have well and truly hit the frontline of the health system, says Labour Health spokesperson Ayesha Verrall. ...2 weeks ago
- Fast-track submissions period must be extendedThe Green Party has joined the call for public submissions on the fast-track legislation to be extended after the Ombudsman forced the Government to release the list of organisations invited to apply just hours before submissions close. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Progress on climate will be undone by GovtNew Zealand’s good work at reducing climate emissions for three years in a row will be undone by the National government’s lack of ambition and scrapping programmes that were making a difference, Labour Party climate spokesperson Megan Woods said today. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Dark day for Kiwi kids as a third of Govt cuts affect themNews that 1000 jobs at the Ministry of Education and Oranga Tamariki could go is devastating for future generations of New Zealanders. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Alarm as Government signals further blow to school lunchesMore essential jobs could be on the chopping block, this time Ministry of Education staff on the school lunches team are set to find out whether they're in line to lose their jobs. ...2 weeks ago
- Oranga Tamariki cuts commit tamariki to state abuseTe Pāti Māori is disgusted at the confirmation that hundreds are set to lose their jobs at Oranga Tamariki, and the disestablishment of the Treaty Response Unit. “This act of absolute carelessness and out of touch decision making is committing tamariki to state abuse.” Said Te Pāti Māori Oranga Tamariki ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Quick, submit – stop Govt’s dodgy approvals billThe Government is trying to bring in a law that will allow Ministers to cut corners and kill off native species, Labour environment spokesperson Rachel Brooking said. ...2 weeks ago
- Government throws coal on the climate crisis fireThe Government’s policy announced today to ease consenting for coal mining will have a lasting impact across generations. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Public transport costs to double as National looks at unaffordable roading project insteadCancelling urgently needed new Cook Strait ferries and hiking the cost of public transport for many Kiwis so that National can announce the prospect of another tunnel for Wellington is not making good choices, Labour Transport Spokesperson Tangi Utikere said. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Cost of living in Auckland still not a priorityA laundry list of additional costs for Tāmaki Makarau Auckland shows the Minister for the city is not delivering for the people who live there, says Labour Auckland Issues spokesperson Shanan Halbert. ...2 weeks ago
- Te Pāti Māori to visit Queensland to strengthen ties with Māori in AustraliaTe Pāti Māori co-leader Rawiri Waititi, and Mema Paremata mō Tāmaki-Makaurau, Takutai Tarsh Kemp, will travel to the Gold Coast to strengthen ties with Māori in Australia next week (15-21 April). The visit, in the lead-up to the 9th Australian National Kapa haka Festival, will be an opportunity for both ...2 weeks ago
- Greens look to fast-track submissions on harmful lawThe Green Party has today launched a step-by-step guide to help New Zealanders make their voice heard on the Government’s democracy dodging and anti-environment fast track legislation. ...3 weeks ago
- Minister acknowledges passing of Sir Robert Martin (KNZM)
New Zealand lost a true legend when internationally renowned disability advocate Sir Robert Martin (KNZM) passed away at his home in Whanganui last night, Disabilities Issues Minister Louise Upston says. “Our Government’s thoughts are with his wife Lynda, family and community, those he has worked with, the disability community in ...39 mins ago - Speech to New Zealand Institute of International Affairs, Parliament – Annual Lecture: Challenges ...Good evening – Before discussing the challenges and opportunities facing New Zealand’s foreign policy, we’d like to first acknowledge the New Zealand Institute of International Affairs. You have contributed to debates about New Zealand foreign policy over a long period of time, and we thank you for hosting us. ...50 mins ago
- Accelerating airport security linesFrom today, passengers travelling internationally from Auckland Airport will be able to keep laptops and liquids in their carry-on bags for security screening thanks to new technology, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. “Creating a more efficient and seamless travel experience is important for holidaymakers and businesses, enabling faster movement through ...3 hours ago
- Community hui to talk about kina barrensPeople with an interest in the health of Northland’s marine ecosystems are invited to a public meeting to discuss how to deal with kina barrens, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones says. Mr Jones will lead the discussion, which will take place on Friday, 10 May, at Awanui Hotel in ...9 hours ago
- Kiwi exporters win as NZ-EU FTA enters into forceKiwi exporters are $100 million better off today with the NZ EU FTA entering into force says Trade Minister Todd McClay. “This is all part of our plan to grow the economy. New Zealand's prosperity depends on international trade, making up 60 per cent of the country’s total economic activity. ...9 hours ago
- Mining resurgence a welcome signThere are heartening signs that the extractive sector is once again becoming an attractive prospect for investors and a source of economic prosperity for New Zealand, Resources Minister Shane Jones says. “The beginnings of a resurgence in extractive industries are apparent in media reports of the sector in the past ...11 hours ago
- Ō-Rākau Remembrance Bill passes first readingThe return of the historic Ō-Rākau battle site to the descendants of those who fought there moved one step closer today with the first reading of Te Pire mō Ō-Rākau, Te Pae o Maumahara / The Ō-Rākau Remembrance Bill. The Bill will entrust the 9.7-hectare battle site, five kilometres west ...1 day ago
- Government to boost public EV charging networkEnergy Minister Simeon Brown has announced 25 new high-speed EV charging hubs along key routes between major urban centres and outlined the Government’s plan to supercharge New Zealand’s EV infrastructure. The hubs will each have several chargers and be capable of charging at least four – and up to 10 ...1 day ago
- Residential Property Managers Bill to not progressThe coalition Government will not proceed with the previous Government’s plans to regulate residential property managers, Housing Minister Chris Bishop says. “I have written to the Chairperson of the Social Services and Community Committee to inform him that the Government does not intend to support the Residential Property Managers Bill ...1 day ago
- Independent review into disability support servicesThe Government has announced an independent review into the disability support system funded by the Ministry of Disabled People – Whaikaha. Disability Issues Minister Louise Upston says the review will look at what can be done to strengthen the long-term sustainability of Disability Support Services to provide disabled people and ...1 day ago
- Justice Minister updates UN on law & order planJustice Minister Paul Goldsmith has attended the Universal Periodic Review in Geneva and outlined the Government’s plan to restore law and order. “Speaking to the United Nations Human Rights Council provided us with an opportunity to present New Zealand’s human rights progress, priorities, and challenges, while responding to issues and ...1 day ago
- Ending emergency housing motels in RotoruaThe Government and Rotorua Lakes Council are committed to working closely together to end the use of contracted emergency housing motels in Rotorua. Associate Minister of Housing (Social Housing) Tama Potaka says the Government remains committed to ending the long-term use of contracted emergency housing motels in Rotorua by the ...1 day ago
- Trade Minister travels to Riyadh, OECD, and DubaiTrade Minister Todd McClay heads overseas today for high-level trade talks in the Gulf region, and a key OECD meeting in Paris. Mr McClay will travel to Riyadh to meet with counterparts from Saudi Arabia and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). “New Zealand’s goods and services exports to the Gulf region ...2 days ago
- Education priorities focused on lifting achievementEducation Minister Erica Stanford has outlined six education priorities to deliver a world-leading education system that sets Kiwi kids up for future success. “I’m putting ambition, achievement and outcomes at the heart of our education system. I want every child to be inspired and engaged in their learning so they ...2 days ago
- NZTA App first step towards digital driver licenceThe new NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) App is a secure ‘one stop shop’ to provide the services drivers need, Transport Minister Simeon Brown and Digitising Government Minister Judith Collins say. “The NZTA App will enable an easier way for Kiwis to pay for Vehicle Registration and Road User Charges (RUC). ...2 days ago
- Supporting whānau out of emergency housingWhānau with tamariki growing up in emergency housing motels will be prioritised for social housing starting this week, says Associate Housing Minister Tama Potaka. “Giving these whānau a better opportunity to build healthy stable lives for themselves and future generations is an essential part of the Government’s goal of reducing ...2 days ago
- Tribute to Dave O'SullivanRacing Minister Winston Peters has paid tribute to an icon of the industry with the recent passing of Dave O’Sullivan (OBE). “Our sympathies are with the O’Sullivan family with the sad news of Dave O’Sullivan’s recent passing,” Mr Peters says. “His contribution to racing, initially as a jockey and then ...2 days ago
- Speech – Eid al-FitrAssalaamu alaikum, greetings to you all. Eid Mubarak, everyone! I want to extend my warmest wishes to you and everyone celebrating this joyous occasion. It is a pleasure to be here. I have enjoyed Eid celebrations at Parliament before, but this is my first time joining you as the Minister ...2 days ago
- Government saves access to medicinesAssociate Health Minister David Seymour has announced Pharmac’s largest ever budget of $6.294 billion over four years, fixing a $1.774 billion fiscal cliff. “Access to medicines is a crucial part of many Kiwis’ lives. We’ve committed to a budget allocation of $1.774 billion over four years so Kiwis are ...2 days ago
- Pharmac Chair appointedHon Paula Bennett has been appointed as member and chair of the Pharmac board, Associate Health Minister David Seymour announced today. "Pharmac is a critical part of New Zealand's health system and plays a significant role in ensuring that Kiwis have the best possible access to medicines,” says Mr Seymour. ...3 days ago
- Taking action on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum DisorderHundreds of New Zealand families affected by Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) will benefit from a new Government focus on prevention and treatment, says Health Minister Dr Shane Reti. “We know FASD is a leading cause of preventable intellectual and neurodevelopmental disability in New Zealand,” Dr Reti says. “Every day, ...4 days ago
- New sports complex opens in KaikoheRegional Development Minister Shane Jones today attended the official opening of Kaikohe’s new $14.7 million sports complex. “The completion of the Kaikohe Multi Sports Complex is a fantastic achievement for the Far North,” Mr Jones says. “This facility not only fulfils a long-held dream for local athletes, but also creates ...4 days ago
- Diplomacy needed more than everForeign Minister Winston Peters’ engagements in Türkiye this week underlined the importance of diplomacy to meet growing global challenges. “Returning to the Gallipoli Peninsula to represent New Zealand at Anzac commemorations was a sombre reminder of the critical importance of diplomacy for de-escalating conflicts and easing tensions,” Mr Peters ...5 days ago
- Anzac Commemorative Address, Buttes New British Cemetery BelgiumAmbassador Millar, Burgemeester, Vandepitte, Excellencies, military representatives, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen – good morning and welcome to this sacred Anzac Day dawn service. It is an honour to be here on behalf of the Government and people of New Zealand at Buttes New British Cemetery, Polygon Wood – a deeply ...5 days ago
- Anzac Commemorative Address – NZ National Service, Chunuk BairDistinguished guests - It is an honour to return once again to this site which, as the resting place for so many of our war-dead, has become a sacred place for generations of New Zealanders. Our presence here and at the other special spaces of Gallipoli is made ...6 days ago
- Anzac Commemorative Address – Dawn Service, Gallipoli, TürkiyeMai ia tawhiti pamamao, te moana nui a Kiwa, kua tae whakaiti mai matou, ki to koutou papa whenua. No koutou te tapuwae, no matou te tapuwae, kua honoa pumautia. Ko nga toa kua hinga nei, o te Waipounamu, o te Ika a Maui, he okioki tahi me o ...6 days ago
- PM announces changes to portfoliosPaul Goldsmith will take on responsibility for the Media and Communications portfolio, while Louise Upston will pick up the Disability Issues portfolio, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon announced today. “Our Government is relentlessly focused on getting New Zealand back on track. As issues change in prominence, I plan to adjust Ministerial ...1 week ago
- New catch limits for unique fishery areasRecreational catch limits will be reduced in areas of Fiordland and the Chatham Islands to help keep those fisheries healthy and sustainable, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones says. The lower recreational daily catch limits for a range of finfish and shellfish species caught in the Fiordland Marine Area and ...1 week ago
- Minister welcomes hydrogen milestoneEnergy Minister Simeon Brown has welcomed an important milestone in New Zealand’s hydrogen future, with the opening of the country’s first network of hydrogen refuelling stations in Wiri. “I want to congratulate the team at Hiringa Energy and its partners K one W one (K1W1), Mitsui & Co New Zealand ...1 week ago
- Urgent changes to system through first RMA Amendment BillThe coalition Government is delivering on its commitment to improve resource management laws and give greater certainty to consent applicants, with a Bill to amend the Resource Management Act (RMA) expected to be introduced to Parliament next month. RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop has today outlined the first RMA Amendment ...1 week ago
- Overseas decommissioning models consideredOverseas models for regulating the oil and gas sector, including their decommissioning regimes, are being carefully scrutinised as a potential template for New Zealand’s own sector, Resources Minister Shane Jones says. The Coalition Government is focused on rebuilding investor confidence in New Zealand’s energy sector as it looks to strengthen ...1 week ago
- Release of North Island Severe Weather Event InquiryEmergency Management and Recovery Minister Mark Mitchell has today released the Report of the Government Inquiry into the response to the North Island Severe Weather Events. “The report shows that New Zealand’s emergency management system is not fit-for-purpose and there are some significant gaps we need to address,” Mr Mitchell ...1 week ago
- Justice Minister to attend Human Rights CouncilJustice Minister Paul Goldsmith is today travelling to Europe where he’ll update the United Nations Human Rights Council on the Government’s work to restore law and order. “Attending the Universal Periodic Review in Geneva provides us with an opportunity to present New Zealand’s human rights progress, priorities, and challenges, while ...1 week ago
- Patterson reopens world’s largest wool scouring facilityAssociate Agriculture Minister, Mark Patterson, formally reopened the world’s largest wool processing facility today in Awatoto, Napier, following a $50 million rebuild and refurbishment project. “The reopening of this facility will significantly lift the economic opportunities available to New Zealand’s wool sector, which already accounts for 20 per cent of ...1 week ago
- Speech to the Southland Otago Regional Engineering Collective Summit, 18 April 2024Hon Andrew Bayly, Minister for Small Business and Manufacturing At the Southland Otago Regional Engineering Collective (SOREC) Summit, 18 April, Dunedin Ngā mihi nui, Ko Andrew Bayly aho, Ko Whanganui aho Good Afternoon and thank you for inviting me to open your summit today. I am delighted ...1 week ago
- Government to introduce revised Three Strikes lawThe Government is delivering on its commitment to bring back the Three Strikes legislation, Associate Justice Minister Nicole McKee announced today. “Our Government is committed to restoring law and order and enforcing appropriate consequences on criminals. We are making it clear that repeat serious violent or sexual offending is not ...1 week ago
- New diplomatic appointmentsForeign Minister Winston Peters has today announced four new diplomatic appointments for New Zealand’s overseas missions. “Our diplomats have a vital role in maintaining and protecting New Zealand’s interests around the world,” Mr Peters says. “I am pleased to announce the appointment of these senior diplomats from the ...1 week ago
- Humanitarian support for Ethiopia and SomaliaNew Zealand is contributing NZ$7 million to support communities affected by severe food insecurity and other urgent humanitarian needs in Ethiopia and Somalia, Foreign Minister Rt Hon Winston Peters announced today. “Over 21 million people are in need of humanitarian assistance across Ethiopia, with a further 6.9 million people ...1 week ago
- Arts Minister congratulates Mataaho CollectiveMinister for Arts, Culture and Heritage Paul Goldsmith is congratulating Mataaho Collective for winning the Golden Lion for best participant in the main exhibition at the Venice Biennale. "Congratulations to the Mataaho Collective for winning one of the world's most prestigious art prizes at the Venice Biennale. “It is good ...1 week ago
- Supporting better financial outcomes for KiwisThe Government is reforming financial services to improve access to home loans and other lending, and strengthen customer protections, Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Andrew Bayly and Housing Minister Chris Bishop announced today. “Our coalition Government is committed to rebuilding the economy and making life simpler by cutting red tape. We are ...1 week ago
- James Shaw's valedictory – and his new role
Shaw has bowed out of Parliament, and has already revealed details of what he is doing next. ...11 mins ago - AUKUS: Winston Peters says NZ 'long way' from deciding on Pillar 2Peters spoke about the military pact in an annual 'scene setter' speech at Parliament on Wednesday evening. ...20 mins ago
- National Cabinet has committed to a range of strategies to stop violence against women, but has it d...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Anastasia Powell, Professor, Family and Sexual Violence, RMIT University Violence against women is not a women’s problem to solve, it is a whole of society problem to solve; and men in particular have to take responsibility. Those were the ...27 mins ago - Is bioenergy ever truly green? It depends on 5 key questionsSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jessica Allen, Senior Lecturer in Chemical and Renewable Energy Engineering, University of Newcastle Snapshot freddy/Shutterstock Plans to revive an old coal-fired power station using bioenergy are being considered in the Hunter region of New South Wales. Similar plans for the station ...58 mins ago
- Free school lunches scheme to get temporary funding until review is completeFunding for the scheme is set to continue for the "immediate few years" while officials work out what the alternative programme will look like. ...1 hour ago
- Taxpayers’ Union Slams Secret List Of Judges’ Perks
Responding to the long-awaited release of judges’ special allowances, including free air travel and hotels for spouses, generous sabbaticals, and access to limousines, Taxpayers’ Union spokesman Alex Murphy said: “In what world does your employer ...1 hour ago - Winston Peters expected to give update on AUKUS talks in speechAnalysis - The United States has unveiled plans to boost the weapons trade with Australia and the UK, on the same day that Winston Peters is expected to sketch NZ's position on AUKUS. ...1 hour ago
- Why did the Voice referendum fail? We crunched the data and found 6 reasonsSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Andrea Carson, Professor of Political Communication, Department of Politics, Media and Philosophy, La Trobe University Since Australia’s First Nations Voice to Parliament referendum in October 2023, diverse commentaries have sought to explain why it failed. But what does an analysis of media ...1 hour ago
- Court hears appeal of Waitangi Tribunal summons decision
Lawyers representing two iwi as well as the Māori Women’s Welfare League on Wednesday asked the Court of Appeal to overturn last week’s High Court decision on the Waitangi Tribunal’s decision to summons Children’s Minister Karen Chhour. The Tribunal is currently investigating the Government’s decision to repeal section 7AA of ...2 hours ago - Former MPs Louisa Wall, Simon O'Connor claim to be targets of China-backed cyber attackThe spy agencies are being questioned after two former MPs claim they were never informed they were victims of a China-backed cyber-attack. ...2 hours ago
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This is more tense than the world cup final.
Via Guardian coverage, encouraging tweet re perhaps the most closely watched state of the election, Ohio, from political analyst Larry Sabato:
It will also be worth keeping an eye on Nate Silver’s live blog tonight…
These are the two links you want to have open in your browser:
CNN results (Or any other results service you like)
NY Times paths to the White House
Reading Slate this morning on the iPad app there was an interesting post with someone repeating readers comments about access to different polling stations. Virginia sounded like it had some bad queues (which it doesn’t usually).
Glad the intimidators in Ohio got booted by both the parties.
Apparently Americans are moving to New Zealand if the other guy wins.
Just what we need, extremists from both sides of the US political spectrum.
*cackles madly* Seriously, they’re going to be in for a bit of a rude awakening …
Good lord. I don’t want any of those people coming here. Except this one:
Almost makes you wish Romney had won just to keep the Religious nut-job Republicans out of our back yard!
Fingers crossed they are just empty threats!!!
Go on standardistas – spoil yourselves just this once with a delicious drop of shadenfreude and take a peek at Fox News and the kiwibog…..might be the only chance ever to enjoy them.
They do seem to be a trivial depressed.
Fux News is already “reporting” a poster of Obama in or nearby a polling place and other “irregularities”.
So we’re right into “he wasn’t legitimately elected……”. Can’t believe it.
Anyway, if only for tonight, Hurt You Bastards, Hurt !
From Slate – Which State’s Voters Had To Wait the Longest, According to Their Tweets?
Waiting an average of 90 minutes in Florida to get to vote! Crazy.
Waiting 10 minutes seems too long to me. I can’t recall ever having to wait. But I guess I deliberately select small polling places.
The Nov 2011 election, I went early on my way to work, expecting it to be uncrowded – had to wait in a queue – not more than 10 minutes as I recall.
What the hell is Obama (assuming he wins) going to be able to achieve with a loony Republican dominated Congress?
Thanks for your efforts Bunji – I’m seeing stuff here that I don’t see on other live coverage!
CNN is remarkably more forward on TV than on their website…
BBC news running a very good live stream with updates
My son was watching that, while talking on the phone to me, and I was keeping an ear on BBC WS radio at the same time!
18.20, and it looks good, though not as good as it did, according to L., he says that Ohio now looks shaky…
The best cover IMHO is at Fox News. Watching their commentators try and deny that Obama is going to win is as funny as their attempts at denying that climate change is happening.
I laughed at their front page line a little while earlier: FOUR MORE YEARS.
It really was portrayed as a prison sentence.
And Fox calls Ohio for Obama through gritted teeth …
Fox calls it for the Nigerian. World ends.
Whoops, he’s Kenyan, of course. Or Filipino, I forget which.
Having a good laugh at the commentator on Fox who reckons it was because Mittens was too moderate!
Actually TRP he is none of those but you may have started a new Tea Party rumour …
Hawaiian. That’s why Key thinks they’re so alike.
Break the habit of a lifetime and tune in to Leighton Smith on Newstalk ZB tomorrow morning.
He announced – not hoped, not predicted, but reported as fact – that Romney would win. Seriously.
You don’t have to be an Obama groupie to be enjoying a good dollop of Schadenfreude right now … tastes good!
Left wing commy conspiracy!
Obama’s claiming it on twitter. Sweet photo!
https://twitter.com/BarackObama/status/266031293945503744/photo/1
Way sweet trp. Actually loving.
Cool. Traffic has been light here today. Between coding I have been jumping around. But I like this coverage. shorter and more interesting.
I see that the rape gaffers got done…
Karl Rove is in denial. He is claiming that Fox’s call of Ohio is premature …
And one of their commentators is saying that campaign funding should be stopped and the candidates only be judged on the debates …
Colorado has freed the collie weed!
The first comment on the Kiwiblog thread is hilarious! Read it and weep (with tears of laughter) …
“KiwiInAmerica”, Fox News salutes you!
Awesome, Go Barack Obama! 😀
Thank Christ for that!
A Romney presidency would have been a very bad and dangerous thing for the world.
Note to NZ neo-cons – you’re next to be flushed.
Where have all the rich right wing nutters gone!
They’ve buried their heads in their pillows. 😀
While biting down on a leather bit.
As an atheist I say ‘thank alll the imaginary gods’ for Obama’s win. JK won’t be able to puppy follow the republican warmongers into Iran or wherever.
Nah, the simpering little batshit’ll be on the phone obseqiuously gushing his congratulations and begging for an appearance at 1600. Sick, narcissistic puppy.
Who cares, they’re both tools of capitalism.
Interesting difference between TV3 and Al Jazeera’s coverage right now. I am curious to hear Obama’s speech.
TV3 has an Obama fan gushing about all the wonderful things about Obama and his supporters.
Al Jazeera: they are talking about how a large number of Americans are PO’ed because the presidential election just focuses on a small number of swing states. Many of the rest feel their vote doesn’t matter.
That would be about right. Like being a Labour voter in Ilam or National voter in Mangere during FPP days.
Unproportional, low turnout, unrepresentative voting is exactly how the US powers that be like it.
They could immediately improve turnout by 5% by scheduling elections on a weekend instead of a weekday for instance. But you can’t have the working class turning up to vote no sireeee.
There’s only 9 states your vote for president matters. But there’s a huge number of other things to vote for at the same time… like massive. They vote for everything here: judge, sheriff, trash collector, auditor, …
Great job Bunji. And a goodish day because it looks like the tea-party (and Mitt) have been resoundingly rejected
BTW: I presume the hotel is work related, but now you know why I don’t have a passport. There is no way that I am ever going to get stuck in a hotel room. Bad enough doing that in the 80’s when I was young. These days if I can’t work it over the comms then we designed it wrong and the product or process needs a rebuild.
Oh I could have fixed it remotely, but customers like to have someone physically there…
Although to be fair you do solve a lot of extra things on site – usually because the customers description of what’s happening bears little relation to reality 😈
I have 2 passports, so I guess I get what I asked for…
They do. I gave up being professionally nice to people when I left the army medics. Stopped going to sites after 3 years doing a onsite tech.
US elections tend to be over-rated for their significance in regards to what a president can and will actually be able to do and achieve.
So while some may get excited to see Obama win a second term (yes, I also rather see him in the White House than Romney), the big question will be, what will he be able to do and change.
The realities are: Comgress (the main “House”) will be Republican dominated, while the Senate appears to be controlled by Democrats (likely to support Obama).
A US president has a lot of power, but without the agreement of Congress, there is a heck of a lot he will not be able to do. So I will see a “waking up to reality” set in after all these “celebrations” by Obama’s supporters and voters.
Only because the US is the number 1 world economic and military power, is so much attention given to this election. Otherwise, nothing much at all will change, as the US economy is largely dominated by corporate interests and strong business lobby groups.
Obama gave up some “green”, environmental policies and consented to expanding oil drilling offshore in the US, and apart from “Obama Care”, allowing quantitative easing and promoting certain US business interests and ensuring minimum care for less fortunate is maintained, there is not all that much he achieved.
He took his time with the withdrawal from Iraq, still has troops in Afghanistan, allowed a hit commando to kill “enemy number one” (Bin Laden), rather than have him face justice before a court, he did not get the Guantanamo Camp for suspected terrorists, classed as a special kind of “combatants”, closed, he could not get a solution to reduce or contain deficit and debt, and otherwise, “business as usual” in the largest capitalist power on the planet.
So without bipartisan solutions not much will be achieved, and a slow “recovery” is on fragile foundations, and in danger from being reversed into recession again, once the money printing stops.
Not an easy solution, well NO solution at all. You cannot please everyone, and like NZ, the US is totally divided, and without unity the path to prospective disaster is there.
Oratory skills are good, but to bring real change, more is needed. Good luck Barack Obama!
“Allowed a hit commando to kill “enemy number one”; More like actually fully authorized it and intended the outcome.
What a bloody “wasted” and “wasteful” system and society the US have.
So 2.5 billion to promote two heavily lobbied candidates (others given no chance from the start!) with BIG money, endless advertising, show effects, automated phone nuisance calls, placards, videos, sound bites, speeches telling half truths and lies, and the people fall for it and pay for it (through products and services the very promoters charge them).
One thing the US could learn from NZ is: Stop this free donation madness, giving the advantage to the corporations and powerful lobbyists, to influence and indeed determine, who will become president!
How many jobs could be created with 2.5 billion US dollars? How many meals could be cooked and served for needy for that amount? How many homeless could be housed? How many veterans and others could get medical and other care they need?
Also the privatised health care system in the US is the most expensive in the world (per capita), yet not that efficient to deliver value for money to all needing it. How much care could be given to those in need with low or no income, if the rich and wealthy there stop paying enormous amounts for first class care and cosmetic surgery and that kind of crap?
Indeed, many questions, few answers and solutions. I consider the US electoral system one of the biggest jokes and most dishonest and undemocratic ones in the world.
“God Bless America”, yeah, right!
The major focus on the election of president does strangley marginalise the really important Congress and (partial) Senate elections.
It seems to me the presidential election is partly about elevating the status of president. To some extent I can see that’s necessary to unite such a vast population across all those states. But it’s also about promoting the status of the US. I always find it strange in movies the way US-ians tend to talk with reverence when mentioning, not just the president, but “The President of the United States”.
Obama is an extraordinary orator. It was amazing how he raised the intensity and pitch of his speech at a certain point, mentioning a whole string of thing, barely taking a breath – definitely the victory note. Then he wound the speech down to a more regular level. But the content was as much propaganda as reality.
Well mostly propaganda. When you listen to it again pay attention to how the detail is worded such that it lets you draw your own (preferred) conclusions as to the meaning.
He is an awesome orator.
Awesome, well done President Obama.
None of it will affect the ongoing foreign policy of interference, promoting brinkmanship in the Middle East. Romney might have had better credentials with the Zionists, but I think the outcome will be the same. 4 more years of scratching their heads as global capitalism presides over their economy going down the gurgler, in the same breath promoting economic sanctions to cripple their enemies in Iran and North Korea.
What a dark time we live in.
The Koch Brothers and all those Mr Burns style tycoons who threw all that money at Romney can have a big big helping of my delightful schadenfreude. I am stoked with the win. Now, if only we could get rid of that douchebag Key…
Well, having had some experience with “Mormons” (I do not mean “morons”, for sure!), I am relieved at least, that the biggest power on this planet will NOT be run by a “Latter Day Saint”, as “Mormons” usually refer to themselves. They have their following, but it would not serve the interests of intelligent, fair minded and reasonable people, to have a guy like Romney (who I suspect to be a “jack Mormon” anyway) run the show. His “biblical” views must have made him take a strong pro Israel stand, and that would do more damage than anything else in that region.
At least there is a vague option to apply a more disciplined approach, both towards Israel and Iran.
Nothing too wrong with Mitt’s Mormonism; it’s his Millionairism which really sucked shit.
Meanwhile – Donald Trump calls for revolution what a hissy fit!
So for all of Romney’s faith and prayers, seems his intermediaries didn’t do as good a job as Obama’s. Time for him to reassess his belief system perhaps.
At least the Bible-belt fundamentalism has taken another bath – wonder how many hours of self righteousness and hallelujahs were offered up to the heavens, and all to no avail.
Have to say that a Republican Afro-American guest on the BBC presentation was a breath of fresh air and if he is an example of the voice of the future Republican party, then things are not so desperate for the world (provided they remain in opposition though).
Logie97: When a “Latter Day Saint” or commonly “Mormon” says to you: “I will pray for you”, as done publicly in the resignation speech of Romney re Obama as chosen president, then you must be worried!
That is what LDS people always say, if they resolutely disagree with the views and conduct of a person. It may sound “christian” and “sympathetic” or even “supportive”, but amongst “Mormons” it usually signals total disapproval, that the person to be “prayed about” is so out of kilter and “God’s tolerance”, she or he “needs” a prayer, at least to find “forgiveness” before all hell breaks loose.
Believe, me, I know what I am talking about. That is what goes down, and that is how it must be viewed and understood, what Romney said in his defeat speech. He actually expressed hidden criticism, not support or sympathy. He is ARROGANT as can be, and he will go back to make BIG money, whether in business, or in holding speeches around the US and the world. That is AMERICA!
This is where I must point out that Mormons are not standard Christians, and not really a part of Bible Belt fundamentalism…
Vicky32
I am well aware that the LDS faction is probably a small part of the electorate outside Utah (though they can still be classed fundamentalists.) They are small in number compared with the Bible belt fundamentalist Christians who were also kept in check by this vote. For which we should all be thankful …
Lessons for Labour? – Take note of demographic change and the women’s vote (imo)