Left In Alabama

Dear Dr. Reed: Who are "Bubba and Cooter, Big Man and June Bug?"

by: mooncat

Mon Dec 07, 2009 at 13:55:29 PM CST


People in power hardly ever give it up gracefully, and Dr. Joe Reed is no exception.  Reed, Associate Executive Secretary of the AEA and head of the Alabama Democratic Conference, has wielded great political power in his lifetime, but in recent years he's been on the losing side more  and more often. 

Dr. Reed backed incumbent Earl Hilliard against Artur Davis in the AL-07 Democratic primary back in 2002.  Davis won convincingly in a runoff.  Reed tried to get Rep. Patricia Todd's 2006 primary win overturned, largely because she was a white Democrat in a majority black district.  Reed also famously backed Hillary Clinton over Barack Obama in 2008 and it's almost certain he will support Ron Sparks over Artur Davis in the Democratic gubernatorial primary next spring.  He also expressed surprise that James Fields (also black) could win in overwhelmingly white Cullman County.  I'm beginning to wonder if Reed subconsciously believes black politicians can't or shouldn't win outside minority districts.  

Dr. Reed certainly won't be going quietly into the twilight years of his political relevancy either.  Jesse Jackson had his turn  at Davis over the HR 3962 vote a couple of weeks ago, saying "You can't vote against health care and call yourself a black man."  He quickly backed off that statement, but Jackson's retreat hasn't deterred Reed who takes a considerably less coherent swing at Davis in a column entitled Alabama congressman attacks the poor in the Alabama School Journal.

Jennifer Foster's piece was the first one I saw on Dr. Reed's "Bubba and Cooter, Big Man and June Bug" remarks.  She's putting forth some right wing arguments about health reform, but it's worth a read in spite of that.  I have no idea what Reed was trying to say with that particular characterization -- whether it was a thinly disguised appeal to class, race, or both -- but the use of those stereotypes calls to mind an Alabama that existed years ago, one that doesn't necessarily exist today.

Artur Davis' response to Dr. Reed's remarks appears below the fold, side by side with an excerpt from Reed's ASJ column.  Emphasis is mine, in both cases.  You tell me which shows more class.

 
mooncat :: Dear Dr. Reed: Who are "Bubba and Cooter, Big Man and June Bug?"

Artur Davis 2010

Congressman Artur Davis:

Dr. Joe Reed

Dr. Joe Reed:

Joe Reed and I have a policy-based difference over whether HR 3962 is the best way to mend our country’s inequitable and costly healthcare system. Unlike Dr. Reed, I believe we can do better than an approach that could cause numerous Alabama employers to reduce their payroll or walk away from offering coverage to their employees.

We have a much more profound difference over race and leadership. Reed believes that a public official’s race matters more than his capacity for independent judgment. He believes that a black American who holds elected office must follow a certain path or be inauthentic.  Dr. Reed also believes in a shameless double standard: when his candidate for Governor, Ron Sparks, denounced the House health care bill in August and refused to say whether he would even enforce a public option as Governor as recently as October, Reed’s response was not outrage but silence.

On all of this, Joe Reed is wrong. Just as he was wrong to fight to overturn the results of a legislative race in 2006 because the winner was white, and in Reed’s opinion, the wrong color for her district; just as he was wrong to stand on the floor of the Democratic convention in Denver to oppose Barack Obama even though the race was over and Hillary Clinton had graciously conceded. Just as he was wrong to urge black Alabamians to reject Barack Obama during the 2008 primary on the flimsy ground that they should appreciate America was not ready for a black President.

I said on the night I won my congressional seat in 2002 that I would not determine my viewpoints and obligations based on race.  I also vigorously reject the insinuation that there is a uniquely “black” way of understanding an issue, and I strongly suspect that most Alabamians will as well.

Joe Reed’s forty-two year career of public service contains much good.  But his injection of race into a serious debate over public policy should offend black and white Alabamians alike, and I hope Ron Sparks will join me in denouncing such a divisive approach.		 In Alabama, all seven congressmen, four Republicans and three Democrats opposed the Obama health care plan. No explanation, no justification can be given to make us believe that they had a good reason to do so.
...

They should hang their heads in shame. If the voters treated them like they treated the voters, they would all be defeated next year. I don’t know how they can fix their mouths, wag their tongues, and stare voters like June Bug, Big Man, Bubba, and Cooter in the face and ask them to vote for them. When you look back at their records for the most part, they mirror the Republican agenda.

...

Artur Davis is now running for governor. His Congressional district is blacker than any Congressional district in the state and poorer than any Congressional district in the state, yet he was the only black congressman in the nation to oppose Obama’s health care plan. Every other member in the Congressional Black Caucus voted for it.

But, because he is now running for governor he is looking out for himself and not the people. There is a message in that. That message is, if he got to be governor, what kind of governor would he be?
He is not likely to get a profiles and courage award when any political issue makes him uncomfortable. You cannot curse Bubba and Cooter, Big Man, and June Bug in the daytime and beg them at night. Davis is not going to be able to hoodwink the voters of Alabama in voting for him for governor when at the same time when the voters of Alabama needed him most he joined with the Republicans.

I say now what I have said many years ago. Politics is a noble profession and there is nothing wrong with politics, but my problem is with politricks.

The Democratic congressman and all other congressmen are playing politricks with the people of Alabama and they expect those same people to vote to have them re-elected.
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Dear Dr. Reed: Who are "Bubba and Cooter, Big Man and June Bug?" | 95 comments
I AGREE W/Joe Reed (0.00 / 0)

Let me say again, I agree with Joe Reed on THIS issue!

He echoed the sentiment that many posters in this forum expressed after Davis's vote. I'm less concerned about how he said it, but rather what he said. I actually read the full article and I'm glad he didn't let the other so-called Democratic congressmen off the hook either.

As to your question of who has class...I guess it depends on your perspective. My definition of class nor leadership includes throwing the voiceless under the bus out of poltical expedience.

 Finally, where will Davis' power reside when he TANKS the entire Democratic ticket and loses his congressional seat (WHICH HE HAS DONE NOTHING WITH!)? Oh, a plush job in the White House or lobbying firm in DC....while the poor people in his district continue to suffer.

 


The state Democratic ticket will tank itself (4.00 / 1)

if it continues to run on the same issues, ignore ethics reform, ignore Constitutional reform, and depend almost solely on AEA and ADC to turn out the vote.

I'm not dissing either organization.  I have many friends and family members who are AEA members and they don't march in lockstep to what the leadership says.  I also know and respect many rank and file ADC members and they too aren't monolithic.

Unfortunately, the state's Democratic power structure is in some ways a victim of its own success over the past decades. They're supposed to be the good guys, but they've grown complacent.

They're the beneficiaries of system that allows lobbyists spend up to $250 per day (up to $90,000/per year) to bribe entertain a legislator without it being reported.  They benefit from a lack of transparency in how state grants are passed out by state agencies and in legislators' home districts.

It's not that they're all corrupt by any means.  But the system we have now encourages corruption and makes the Democratic Party an easy target for Republican "reformers."  Not that I in any way think that all the people pushing reform are actually interested in it.  I'm sure lots of GOP legislators would love their turn at the public trough.

One problem is that both Paul Hubbert and Joe Reed have been influential in state politics for decades.  They've both done a lot of good for the people of this state.  But that doesn't mean that either is always right or that either man is always looking out for the best interests of the state as a whole.

Joe Reed's statement shows where his priorities lay and those for whom race is a primary concern in elections or political issues may agree with him.  But personally, I think it damages his credibility far more than it hurts Davis or helps Ron Sparks.

 



I'm not short.  I'm fun size!!
[ Parent ]
Interesting (4.00 / 1)
I can see you aren't familiar or are ignorant of Davis' voting record over 7 years.  Thats ok, you still have time to learn and be better informed.
[ Parent ]
Of course Artur Davis has more "class". (0.00 / 0)

He was educated at Harvard after all. :)

What VIP, Joe Reed and Jesse Jackson said.



The work goes on, the cause endures, the hope still lives and the dreams shall never die.~Senator Edward M. Kennedy (D. MA)


I don't think "class" has anything to do with your alma mater (0.00 / 0)

Certainly the kind of "class" I'm talking about doesn't.  It's more about how you treat other people ... we see again and again as Davis is attacked he responds with grace, facts and an emphasis on issues, not cheap shots.  That's class, in my opinion. 

One of my favorite Alabama authors often used the phrase "common as pig's tracks" in her novels and the "Bubba and Cooter" thing is getting close -- not to mention "Big Man and June Bug."



Work harder and work smarter!
[ Parent ]
Exactly (0.00 / 0)
I would take a highly trained Harvard graduate with skills to do a job over parasites like Reed and Jackson any day of the year without question.  So yes Davis has had more classes and has more class than Reed. 
[ Parent ]
Oh goodie! I've been waiting for this backhanded foolishness for awhile (0.00 / 0)

The chief negro has spoken and he is telling the world that us blacks should have collective mindset on politics and if any of us step out of line by thinking differently then there is hell to pay, LMAO!

This is the same fool that thought Hillary Clinton was going to win Alabama last February, LOL.  I do remember how he did cause a stir at the Denver last year over the Democratic nomination.  In addition, to his opposition to Patricia Todd, a white out-of-the-closet lesbian because she beat black and anti-gay Gaynell Hendrick in District 54 race in 2006.  He just has ZERO CREDIBILITY in my book. 

He is just another black face in the Establishment crowd that I laugh at profusely because he is about as principled as Larry Langford when it comes to helping black folks politically.  He does believe the only way blacks can get ahead is when a black person prostitute themselves to the whatever the Black Establishment says and never get in the way of a white Democratic politician they like.  He's as much anti-progressive politics as he claims Davis is, so it is what it is in my book.

Reed: anti-LGBT, anti-charter schools, anti-Constitutional reform, and anti-black independent thinker, but pro-tokenism, pro-status quo, and pro-racial politics.  

Let the foolishness began!  



"Hypocrites are those whom pick and choose prejudices while giving accolades for their own..."

"It is what it is."  

http://blkindependent.blogspot...

The debates continue (4.00 / 3)

Three thoughts...

1)  There are policy reasons to oppose legislation.  A variety of aricles have come out to mention that regarding HR 3962, particularly pointing out the fact that this bill does address cost.   Recently, David Leonhardt of the NewYork Times raised these concerns.  Davis's vote was based on policy, especially items such as the employer mandate which could result in companies paying the penalty to drop coverage.  This is the similar to the response Kristopher over at The World Around You brought up by summarizing this regarding the Senate bill in a statement from disparate think tanks.  Cost containment is an important issue that needs to be addressed with this, and a vote agaisnt based on those grounds does not signify one opposes heatlh care reform but the way it is done.

2)  The Joe Reed/Artur Davis fight goes in line with the fact that Davis has been the most successful in challenging Reed's role in Alabama politics, especially among minorities in this state.  It is no longer necessary to seek Reed's belssing to run and win.  This story is well known among followers of Alabama politics (and if you aren't familiar with it, look at Gwen Ifill's chapter on Artur Davis in The Breakthrough).  Davis right believes that one who feels like the can win should run, and he has not sought ought endorsements from groups like ADC (In Ifill's work, he states, "Honestly if I was seen as being the ADC candidate, I would not be electable....If I was seen as being the candidate of the black political leadership, I wouldn't be electable."  Reed's column this week helps to reinforce this view.

(An aside, Ifill's book should be required reading for those following this governor's race).

3)  Reed has played an important role in getting minorities elected in this state.  He has been the strongest advocate for creating districts for minoriy respresentation and has done so.  However, I raise the same question that I heard Former Congressman Glen Browder raise--has that been the most helpful item to minorities and Democrats in this state?  I would argue no for a couple of reasons.  One, majority minority districts also create extremely safe Republican districts.  For every district in west Birmingham that goes to a Democrat, there is one Over the Mountain that goes to a Republican.  For the success of Democrats in the U.S. House District 7, House District 6 will be Republican.  In contrast, creating districts with some more balance provide opportunities for Democrats to pick off more seats with the right campaign.  For example, if all of Birmingham was in House District 6, Democrats could win that seat.  And, more than likely, Republicans will keep similar district lines becuse it boosts their numbers--it places a minimum ont he number of competative districts there are than can flip parties.


Your third point (4.00 / 1)

reminded me of this American Prospect column from 2002:

And yet, there are occasions when sampling could help Republicans. For example, a larger black or Hispanic count could trigger the creation of a new majority-minority district. That means taking a district that would have already elected a Democrat and concentrating enough minority voters there so it is virtually certain to elect a Democrat the color the district is designed for. Meanwhile, adjoining districts are bleached of minority Democrats and made riper for Republicans.

This is precisely what happened across the South in the last redistricting: Blacks and Republicans worked together, with a crucial assist from the Justice Department, to create new black districts. The result: In 1992, 12 new black members of Congress were elected from the South, even as in 1992 and 1994, for that reason among others, southern white Democrats suffered a net loss of 23 seats in Congress.



I'm not short.  I'm fun size!!
[ Parent ]
Policy concerns with HR3962 (4.00 / 1)

A mandate that everyone purchase insurance without adequate cost containment is going to be very unfair to working class Americans, particularly if employers start dropping their coverage so everyone has to buy it in whatever marketplace we end up with.  Some of Davis' concerns with the legislation are real -- why does he get bashed and Kucinich gets a pass for voting against it?

And on gerrymandered "safe" districts:  I think they're killing our democracy by fostering extremists on both sides who have no incentive to compromise.  Yes, I think we need to make sure minority voters have a chance for representation, but we also need to get rid of these crazy district lines that look like a jigsaw puzzle on crack. 



Work harder and work smarter!
[ Parent ]
Comparing Davis to Kucinich - you're kidding! (0.00 / 0)

As far as the “left” goes, Kucinich is the real deal – check the voting record.

http://www.issues2000.org/OH/Dennis_Kucinich.htm 

It’s one thing to ask us to accept Davis as a moderate who sometimes sells out women, gays, the teachers union, and the uninsured for conservative votes, but it’s damned insulting when his supporters keep trying to pass off his B.O. as perfume.



"When you talk about the law discriminating, the law granting a privilege here, and a right here and denying it there, that's a civil rights issue. And I can't take that away from anybody." - Rev. Joseph Lowery

[ Parent ]
And there's the answer! (4.00 / 2)

to Mooncat's question of why does one Congressman get bashed while another gets a pass:

it’s damned insulting when his supporters keep trying to pass off his B.O. as perfume.

Because it's not about issues with some people.  It's personal, so the debate gets nasty with name-calling and ad hominem insults.

I like Kucinich, but I also like people who can actually pass legislation.  Dennis K. is a great guy.  I've met him and heard him speak.  But unfortunately, he's way in the minority and hasn't been very effective in getting his priorities passed.

Certainly, that's not entirely his fault.  There are powerful forces against him.  But it's also true that you do have to compromise to get legislation passed and he hasn't so far been effective at building a winning coalition. (but I have my fingers crossed)

I admire him so much as a person and a leader, but as a legislator, he's not the most effective.

I haven't criticized his vote because I understand why he voted that way.  I also understand why Davis voted the way he did. Although I don't agree with his reasoning, his explanation was WAY better than the standard GOP talking points of "just because... SOCIALISM.... Gubment run health care will kill you with death panels" nonsense.

I accept that both men voted on principle.  I can disagree, but still respect them.



I'm not short.  I'm fun size!!
[ Parent ]
I submit (0.00 / 0)

The reason Kuchinich isn't "very effective in getting his priorities passed" is becase we (collective) pander to the Congress Critters who don't share our values and give them a free pass in order to get the "elected" so they can work ON us and not FOR us.

Dennis Kuchinich is right (pun intended) about every issue, but he is marginalized and minimized by the status quo in favor of those who will go along to get along like Artur Davis.

Is it compromise or capitulation?  And why are we (collective) always the ones reaching across the aisle and getting our hands slapped at every turn when are RIGHT (pun inteneded) and they are wrong?

I don't understand why Davis voted against the health care reform bill or the Hate Crimes bill, or why he voted for the Stupak Amendment.  I also don't understand why he's getting a free pass from some progressives on these issues, but I respect your right not to criticize Davis.  I just wish you could respect my right to criticize Davis.

Because it's not about issues with some people.  It's personal, so the debate gets nasty with name-calling and ad hominem insults.

I've only criticized Davis's policies, political philosophy, votes and stances on issues. I've never criticized Davis personally, yet I've become the victim of personal ad homien attacks and insults.  Davis supporters seem to take criticism of him as a personal attack on them and resort to attacking the person making the criticism instead of the criticism.  That's not fair, nor is it progressive.  I'm nor criticizing you, I'm criticizing his stance on the issues.

Now I'm sure I'll get the "victimhood doesn't become your" bash, or the "stop whining" bash, or the "stop griping" bash or the "stop bashing Davis" bash, but that's fine.  Our sons and daughters are fighting, dying and being maimed and wounded in Iraq so we (collective) have the right to gripe, whine, complain, and criticize about our elected public officials, regardless of race, creed,gender or PARTY.



The work goes on, the cause endures, the hope still lives and the dreams shall never die.~Senator Edward M. Kennedy (D. MA)


[ Parent ]
Kucinich, Right (0.00 / 0)

You are completely lost on all fronts if Kucinich or Joe Reed are your heroes.  Sure Kucinich is entertaining but I know he will never be relevant.  The President won and the Congressional wins were based on moderate Independents.  American politics has been and will always revolve around the middle not to the extreme Left or Right like Kucinich so of course you agree with him.  Reality is that Joe Reed might be losing his ability to reason and generate a normal level of coherence.  As a Davis supporter PLEASE encourge rambling Joe to flap his gums.  Every time he speaks I would guess Davis' polling will improve dramatically.

It is time for Joe to cash in his bribery chips from AEA and go home.  Wake us up when he has something improtant to say.

Also, read legislation before parroting what other websites tell you is truth.  Maybe independent thinking might reveal truth instead. 

 Maybe June 2010 can come a little sooner than usual.  Who cares what other State elected Dems have to say if they are producing nothing.  They hide for 4 years and come out in the sun only to fumble throught what they say the would do.

Also, Redeye, it is very interesting that Josh Segall stated without question that he would have voted against the House version of the healthcare bill.  Unlike you, maybe another progressive that can think for himself and have the intelligence and balls to tell the truth to his constituents without a printed page of bullet points.


[ Parent ]
Takenoprisoners, (0.00 / 0)
please tune me out.

The work goes on, the cause endures, the hope still lives and the dreams shall never die.~Senator Edward M. Kennedy (D. MA)


[ Parent ]
Dear Redeye (0.00 / 0)
Please try to avoid calling other commenters out by name.  Yeah, if you have something really good to tell somebody, it's OK, but lately there's been more of it that isn't for positive purposes.  That's one of the ways the discourse gets personal and sometimes mean and headed to that slippery slope we call a flame war.  You do it pretty often, so here's your chance to start setting a good example for everyone else ...

Work harder and work smarter!
[ Parent ]
I hate to sound like a whiny kid but.... (0.00 / 0)
Why did you "admonish" me "not to call commentors out by name", but you never "admonish certian commentors" when they "call me out" by name or worse?  As the young people say, What's up with that?  

The work goes on, the cause endures, the hope still lives and the dreams shall never die.~Senator Edward M. Kennedy (D. MA)


[ Parent ]
I think you were the first to do it on this thread (0.00 / 0)
It's annoying behavior, usually considered poor practice and I'd like to see less of it.  You do it more than most and you were the first one I saw on this thread.

Work harder and work smarter!
[ Parent ]
Don't Worry About That (4.00 / 1)

We ALL have.  Grownups would like to have adult conversations so the attic, basement or "field" await your return.......

June 2010


[ Parent ]
Kucinich isn't very effective because he WON'T compromise (0.00 / 0)

He won't accept whatever incremental progress he can get today and come back and try to get more next year.  The perfect is the enemy of the good where Dennis Kucinich is concerned.

Sure, he's in the right place on many issues, but he isn't making the kind of difference he could if he was more effective as a coalition builder instead of being an army of one.  And like it or not, both men voted against HR3962.  Apparently some give Kucinich a pass, but he voted the same way Davis and 36 other Democrats did.



Work harder and work smarter!
[ Parent ]
Why should we "accept incremental progress"? (0.00 / 0)

Maybe the reason he isn't making a difference because some people marginalize and minimize him instead of backing him.  Once agains, those that speak the truth get tuned out and those who go along to get along get tuned in.  And we wonder why the bad guys always win and why we don't make progress? 

I respect Kuchinich's reason for voting against HR3962.  I don't respect Davis' non reason.  I'd vote for Kuchinich without hesitation anytime, anyplace, because he has earned my respect and admiration.  He's the kind of Congressman I wish I had instead of the Congressman I have.



The work goes on, the cause endures, the hope still lives and the dreams shall never die.~Senator Edward M. Kennedy (D. MA)


[ Parent ]
PSSST! (4.00 / 1)

Redeye, the attic is waiting for ya!

At the end of the day regardless of what juju beaded, half-witted bullcrap they delivered, both Davis and Kuchinich voted against the House bill, so IT IS WHAT IS.  You just prejudice against Davis because he's not a "field negro" in your eyes, but I have a little news for ya.  Joe Reed is anti-gay, so he's not a "field negro" either because he didn't want Patricia Todd, you know the white lesbian state legislator from Birmingham, to win over Gaynell Hendricks, the black, anti-gay Democrat in District 54. 

You gotta call a spade a spade and let your ship sail, YOU DON'T LIKE DAVIS, WE GET IT!  



"Hypocrites are those whom pick and choose prejudices while giving accolades for their own..."

"It is what it is."  

http://blkindependent.blogspot...

[ Parent ]
You do recognize Davis also supported Gaynell Hendricks, right? (0.00 / 0)
Just wanted to clear up any notion that Artur Davis and Joe Reed were on different sides of that issue.  Joe Reed has conducted himself like a jackass many times, and- while I agree with the content of his message this time - I believe the time has passed for him to be the person delivering it.  But there should be no doubt that Artur Davis is far, far, far from progressive when it comes to gay rights.
[ Parent ]
If you agree with Reed's statement... (0.00 / 0)

Then you have already defeated your own argument.  Reed basically focus his entire tirade at Davis because he is a black politico that goes against the grain.  Reed pretty much said that racial politics should be first and foremost.  Reed is a walking contradiction who is for black politicians in totally black areas, and white politicians in majority white areas, but complains about how blacks are being held down while at the helm at the AEA.

Honestly, however the assumption that Davis is as you quote "far, far, far from progressive when it comes to gay rights" is an overreaching misnomer.  He has voted for some LGBT legislation as much has he voted against some so far in his time in Congress.  Ironically, he voted for the Sheppard/Byrd Hate Crimes Act after he voted against it nearly 2 years earlier.  The same can be said about his vote on ENDA (1 against, 1 for it).  The best description of him when it come to it is "middle-of-the-road" or moderate when it comes to LGBT issues. 



"Hypocrites are those whom pick and choose prejudices while giving accolades for their own..."

"It is what it is."  

http://blkindependent.blogspot...

[ Parent ]
So NOT true (0.00 / 0)

Reed focused his entire tirade at 7th district Congressman Davis for voting against the affordable health care reform bill.  If you call that going against the grain, because the old grain is certainly in favor of all Alabamains having access to quality, affordable health care. IMHO, Reed pretty much said that voting for personal political gain should NOT be first and foremost.  If Reed is a walking contradiction what pray tell is Davis?

As my Daddy says the only thing in the middle of the road is a yellow line.  I don't know about you, but I'm tired of "middle of the road" elected officials.



The work goes on, the cause endures, the hope still lives and the dreams shall never die.~Senator Edward M. Kennedy (D. MA)


[ Parent ]
Uh wrong again... (0.00 / 0)

We can debate on HR3962 that all night long, but it is pointless.

Racial politics is my biggest pet-peeve with Reed when we need to be trying to look at candidates' platforms instead.  Reed is what is exactly what is wrong with black politics these days, it's all about the color of one's face rather than the content of their platform.  When one always racialize things when it's about something else they ALWAYS wind up on the wrong side of history...

Go look up black egalitarianism and you will know what I'm talking about... 



"Hypocrites are those whom pick and choose prejudices while giving accolades for their own..."

"It is what it is."  

http://blkindependent.blogspot...

[ Parent ]
Did he support her in the primary, or did he support overturning the primary? (0.00 / 0)

The first time Joe Reed showed up on my radar was when he was trying to get the SDEC to overturn the primary vote in favor of Hendricks.  I was stunned to hear of his statements and behavior at that meeting and just couldn't believe a Democratic leader could possibly behave that way or think overturning an election is a good idea.

So, I don't begrudge either Reed or Davis supporting Hendricks in a primary, but I do think trying to overturn the vote in favor of a black person -- and that's the argument I heard that Reed made back then, not the gay thing -- is indicative of bad judgement and misplaced priorities. 



Work harder and work smarter!
[ Parent ]
whine, whine... (4.00 / 2)

yet I've become the victim of personal ad homien attacks and insults.  Davis supporters seem to take criticism of him as a personal attack on them and resort to attacking the person making the criticism instead of the criticism.

Winston Churchill:  "A fanatic is the person who can't change his mind and won't change the subject."

Sure your problem is issues-oriented and all the criticism is personal attacks.  Keep telling yourself that....  Someone, somewhere may actually believe it.



I'm not short.  I'm fun size!!
[ Parent ]
Davis is not Kuchinich (0.00 / 0)

For one thing Kuchinich is not running for Governor of the reddest of the red states.  Nor has Kuchinich thrown women, minorities, LBGT's, labor and educators under the bus for political gain.  Kuchinich is offering an alternative (medicare for all) and his stand is rooted in principle not politics.  Everyone knows Davis voted against the health care reform bill in order to try and appear moderate and to appeal to conservatives.

Race has nothing to do with why Davis is going to get hammered. Davis is pro-TRAP and pro-Stimulis. He only voted against the Healthcare plan as a transparent bid to get false moderate cover. The vote will not impress the voters. Davis is for Obama’s agenda and a personal buddy of Obama.

Now I don't agree there is an anti Democrat/anti Obama/anti Washington wave any where other than the red, republican, confederate, slave states(rrcss).  For some reason the rrcss would RATHER bite off their noses to spite their faces and continue to vote against their self interest. 

 



The work goes on, the cause endures, the hope still lives and the dreams shall never die.~Senator Edward M. Kennedy (D. MA)


[ Parent ]
Need to tighten up your argument (4.00 / 1)

You're quoting an anonymous commenter (who appears to be a Republican) from another website.  Why is that supposed to convince anyone at all? 

And I disagree that Davis has "thrown women, minorities, LBGT's, labor and educators under the bus for political gain"  and will continue to disagree until you provide supporting data.  I suspect his LGBT votes (sadly) are not far from the prevailing sentiment in his district.  The AFL-CIO voting record tool says his lifetime voting record is 89% "R" as in "right" so I just don't get the anti-union accusation.  Here is Davis' Progressive Punch score by issue -- he's 189th out of the 435 House members:

Progressive Punch score for Artur Davis 

Kucinich's overall score is 149 out of 435 and Davis scores better on Education, Housing and War and Peace.  I understand you don't like 2 or 3 recent votes, but you don't get to rewrite history to make fit some narrative you happen to like. 



Work harder and work smarter!
[ Parent ]
On LGBT issues... (4.00 / 2)
AL-7 isn't very pro-LGBT at as a whole.  Only the portions around Birmingham's City Center (Downtown, Midtown, and Southside areas) along with other areas like Crestwood, East Lake, Roebuck, Red Mountain, and Crestline areas are the only portions that is very LGBT-friendly when it comes to elections.  Those areas only make up barely 1/4th of the District's overall population.   Whereas, the other 3/4ths of the district have made it known loud and clear, HELL NO, to LGBT issues. 

"Hypocrites are those whom pick and choose prejudices while giving accolades for their own..."

"It is what it is."  

http://blkindependent.blogspot...

[ Parent ]
"HELL NO, to LGBT issues" (0.00 / 0)

Interesting, we're supposed to believe Davis always votes on principle  - except when he's catering to the bigotry of his contuents.

 



"When you talk about the law discriminating, the law granting a privilege here, and a right here and denying it there, that's a civil rights issue. And I can't take that away from anybody." - Rev. Joseph Lowery

[ Parent ]
Regardless of (0.00 / 0)

Who represents AL-7, my point is the district is majority anti-LGBT.  If you think for a minute that any candidate could get elected by openly saying their pro-LGBT in this district then I have a bridge to sell you for a dollar. 

 



"Hypocrites are those whom pick and choose prejudices while giving accolades for their own..."

"It is what it is."  

http://blkindependent.blogspot...

[ Parent ]
Keep your bridge (0.00 / 0)

From what you said, it sounds like you'd have better luck selling one in District 7.



"When you talk about the law discriminating, the law granting a privilege here, and a right here and denying it there, that's a civil rights issue. And I can't take that away from anybody." - Rev. Joseph Lowery

[ Parent ]
That is very true (4.00 / 2)
Minority-majority districts are Catch-22 for Democrats, minority, and some progressive candidates.  They offer a "safe district" for them, but does the same for social conservatives, whites, and Republicans.  I've always been pro-competitive, diversified districts where it forces both parties to place moderates on the ballot who have to gain votes from progressives and minorities to win.  This is the type of politics that allows things to get done because the candidates are beholden to the entire electorate, but must remember who placed them in office once they are there.

"Hypocrites are those whom pick and choose prejudices while giving accolades for their own..."

"It is what it is."  

http://blkindependent.blogspot...

[ Parent ]
Let Me Say... (0.00 / 0)

...that Joe Reed's use of Bubba, Cooter, June Bug, is no different than what what then Senator Obama did when he was camapaigning in Selma in 2007 when he called on Cousin Pookie & Jethro to "get off the couch...and go vote."

That being said, after re-reading the press release by Davis, it seemed to be an overreaction to Reed's comments about ALL the Democratic Congressmen who voted against the Healthcare Bill. Reed did the same thing in the AEA Journal when Bright & Griffith voted against the Lilly Ledbetter act. I don't remember that making the front page of this blog, nor do I remember either of the Congressmen responding in such a personal and vindictive manner. Say what you will about Reed, but without him there there might not be a black congressional district in Alabama.  

Is Davis pandering so much to the RIGHT that he's willing to throw ALL the traditional backers of Democrats in this state under the bus? Plus, I find it hypocritical for a black man who ran in a majority black district to act as if he doesn't agree w/the poltics of race. If not, why didn't he run in another congressional district? If he doesn't believe in that why did he nominate a black lawyer to replace a black federal judge? Oh, I know, that's just coincidence. Riiiiiiigggghhhhhtttt.

Joe Reed is just voicing what ALOT of politicos are whispering. He's just isn't and never has been afraid to say it.

 


Uh sorry, but (4.00 / 1)

Joe Reed is an old fool, plain and simple.  The only people that are saying that about Davis are the same ones that wouldn't have voted for him regardless of his vote on HR3962 because he is a black, independent-thinking, Democrat that doesn't kiss Reed's or the Black Establishment's narcissistic asses.  They have hated and had an axe to grind against Davis since he defeated Hilliard in 2002. 

From my understanding in the letter I received from the Davis Congressional office the other day, Davis was against that stipulation that HR3962 required because it would force people that wouldn't be covered by the gov't.-coverage would be forced to get insurance or face a fine.  By voting against a HR plan with an individual mandate for health insurance, it could be argued that Davis was protecting his constituents from undue financial burdens the mandate would establish. This is important because, as Reed points out, Davis’s constituents are the poorest in the state and are the least able to meet those expanded obligations to Uncle Sam. 

Yeah, I'm so thankful for a district that is so gerrymandered that it is very embarrassing for me to look at on a map.  You can literally see the city limit boundaries of Birmingham on a US Congressional map.  Yet, another progressive city in Greater Birmingham, Homewood, is left out because it doesn't majority black populous.  Sorry, but I'm not a fan of minority-majority districts because they create "super-safe" white Republican districts elsewhere at our expense statewide.  Also AL-7 maybe the only black and Democratic district, but it's still quite socially conservative regardless of who represents us.  Most of the folks there where in the PRO column for the state ban on same-sex unions/domestic partnerships/civil unions in 2004.  Jefferson County was the only exception, by default due to size and population composition.  All of us Birmingham progressives need other progressives (regardless of race) in Greater Birmingham if we want to get somewhere here in Alabama and in Congress.   REALITY CHECK, most of the progressives doesn't reside in Birmingham proper and their voices are left null-and-voided thanks to Reed and other's gerrymandering and manipulation of district boundaries.

Sorry, but this black, openly bisexual male isn't a fan of this bullcrap at all!



"Hypocrites are those whom pick and choose prejudices while giving accolades for their own..."

"It is what it is."  

http://blkindependent.blogspot...

[ Parent ]
ummmm.. this is a problem for me (4.00 / 2)

I find it hypocritical for a black man who ran in a majority black district to act as if he doesn't agree w/the poltics of race. If not, why didn't he run in another congressional district?

Maybe because he didn't LIVE in another Congressional district?  And, does that mean if he were Hispanic and ran in a majority Hispanic district then he should only be concerned about immigration, language, etc?

Please explain what your reaction would be to someone who moved into the district only to run for office because he's a black guy.  Is that ok?  If not, why?  If I undertand your comment, then the guy or gal with the right color and genetic makeup should just run in whatever district suits the skin color or language, right? 

So only black Congressmen can represent Black people and only women Congresspeople can represent females?  Holy cow... our system is truly broken according to your guidelines!

Are you really saying that because Parker Griffith ran in a majority white district then he should only be concerned about "white" issues? 

If so, please explain what those are because - as a white voter - I'm confused about what my priorities should be. 

If not, explain please explain why Davis should only be concerned about "the politics of race" instead of the needs of all his voters.

I gave money to, campaigned for, and voted for President Obama.  Should I expect HIM to only be concerned about the "politics of race" or should I expect him to represent the entire country as a leader?

I know what my answer is.  What's yours?



I'm not short.  I'm fun size!!
[ Parent ]
Wow (0.00 / 0)

Thank you countrycat!  I missed this on the first reading:

I find it hypocritical for a black man who ran in a majority black district to act as if he doesn't agree w/the poltics of race. If not, why didn't he run in another congressional district?

My first reaction is that such a ridiculous statement is obviously an unfortunate misstatement, perhaps due to failure to PREVIEW and PROOFREAD.  However, it's a little bit like the pattern I noted in the body of the post.  Joe Reed has a history of backing candidates who represent the racial majority of whatever district they're running in:

President of the United States (majority white) - Hillary Clinton (white)

State Rep. in House District 54 (majority black) - Gaynell Hendricks (black)

Governor of Alabama (majority white) - not the black candidate

Maybe I'm missing something, but if the goal is a color blind society, why does the race of the candidate need to match the race of the district?  It seems to me that an intelligent, competent person of good faith can adequately represent a district without regard to his or her skin color.  Of course, if politics no longer turns on race, then the people who hold the keys to racial politics suddenly have a lot less power ... 



Work harder and work smarter!
[ Parent ]
Keep It In Context (0.00 / 0)

Please don't cut and splice part of my comments without examining them in full. I never said that Davis should only be concerned with the politcs of race. I said he need not insult my intelligence by acting like he doesn't engage in that when it's politically expedient for him to do so. As for Parker Griffin and Bobby Bright: I haven't seen them vote for one frickin' thing that's a priority to most African-Americans that I know so you tell me who they're lookin' out for.  

Don't be so naive as to think that Davis just accidentally chose that Congressional district. He's too smart to do ANYTHING by accident. He chose that district because it's where he thought he had the best chance to win! Why? Because the voters are majority black. The Justice Department created several of majority-minority districts across the South in the early 90s because blacks couldn't get elected to Congress in majority white districts. Don't let your idealism blind you because most whites won't vote for people who don't look like them in this state. One need only look at local, county, and state election patterns for evidence of this. Not saying it's right, but rather just how it is. Therefore Davis is a direct beneficiary of the type of politics that he condemns Reed for advocating. It's that outright hypocrisy that fosters my comments.

Finally, the bigger point is that Davis' vote should've reflected the will of his constituents who are poor, Black, and pro-healthcare reform. This is no different than Mike Rodgers vote who probably accurately reflects the will of the majority of his district. Davis just chose to focus on himself instead of the people he was SUPPOSED to be representing on platform issue of the Democratic party.

Don't call yourself my friend and then stab me in the back while hugging me!


[ Parent ]
Fist dap VIP (0.00 / 0)
Well said.

The work goes on, the cause endures, the hope still lives and the dreams shall never die.~Senator Edward M. Kennedy (D. MA)


[ Parent ]
Thanks Redeye (0.00 / 0)
Back atcha!
[ Parent ]
sorry, but it kind of stood on its own (4.00 / 1)

Please don't cut and splice part of my comments without examining them in full.

If you're not willing to stand behind it, don't write it.



I'm not short.  I'm fun size!!
[ Parent ]
I Stand Behind EVERYTHING I've written (0.00 / 0)
Just be sure to you reprint everything I say not just part of a sentence to try and make a point. I'm secure in my thoughts, reasoning, and actions.
[ Parent ]
Actually (4.00 / 1)

Who are you to speak on who whites will vote for or not.  That sounds like silly Repug talk.  Are you mind melding with the entire Caucasian population to know exactly how they would respond to an African American candidate that reflects their positions?  Of course not and you speak of Davis district as if it is monlithic in nature.  Davis has areas like Tuscaloosa, McCalla parts of Mountain Brook and Homewood to name a few.  If you are not familiar with his district please research. 

Davis has said numerous times even before healthcare reform was cool that change needed to happen.  So allot of Johnny Come Lately's are just now realizing there is an actual debate.  Just vote for anything anytime seems to be the thought pattern of a few individuals but thankfully not the majority.  The bill needs to be better than good so we don't have another crisis in 15 years.  Do you have any polling to bak up your assertions related to CD 7? 

Even the President understood there will be differnces in opion and respected those differences.  That's what really matters because he wants a healthcare bill that works operionally as well as politically.  Cant be simpler than that.

June 2010 


[ Parent ]
Numbers Don't Lie (0.00 / 0)

I'm not speaking to who whites will vote for. The statistics of past elections do that for me. Go to the Secretary of State website if you doubt that. I wish things were different here, but they aren't yet. Period.

I'm well aware of what areas are in CD-7. I travel it often. I have family and friends in Jefferson, Perry, Dallas, Tuscaloosa, and Hale Counties. I have also spoken to elected officials in that area who've told me what they've heard as well.

As for polling...check the Capital Survey Research poll on the subject.

 


[ Parent ]
Not an overreaction (4.00 / 1)

VIP, I disagree with your assertion that this is an overreaction.  First, Reed's article spent about half of its content on Davis.  It did criticize both Bright and Griffith for their votes, but the focus of Reed's piece is upon Davis.   

Next, I refer back to my comment earlier--this is another salvo in the struggle between Reed and Congressman Davis for the future of the Democratic party, and especially African-American politicians within the party.  I see it as representative of the struggles between the oldest generation of African-American politicians and younger generations.  Davis is not dependent upon the bloc vote for his election.  He did not need ADC's support in 2002 to win.  And the equation for Davis to win involves running a race that is not dependent upon ADC.  


[ Parent ]
Sooo Correct csduke (0.00 / 0)

A very astute observation.  Just like Spring cleaning, out with the old and in with the new, politically.  It cant be any worse than what we have right now.

 June 2010


[ Parent ]
That's Fine (0.00 / 0)

I don't mind you disagreeing with me, but trust me Davis has no future in the Democratic party. Davis's response was overtly personal. Do you want me to go down the list of issues Artur has been wrong about in his illustrious seven year career? Do you want me to talk about the people he endorsed (behind the scenes so he wouldn't be exposed) that LOST?! He'll be the Edward Brooke of Alabama. A loner who got elected and did nothing for the people who instilled hope in him. No landmark bills. No transformational appropriations to change a forgotten region of this state. Nothing, but media headlines based on potential and promise instead of results.

When he loses the Governor's race he'll take a cush job in DC while this state tries to rebound from his self-centered political philosphy.

As for Reed, well he's on his way out. Imprint set. Legacy left. When most of you were talkin' about change, Reed was gettin it done. Focus on the things you don't like if you will. I'll instead focus on a man who got blacks their fair share when the system barely acknowledged my existence. Idealism sounds good, but action gets things done.


[ Parent ]
Wow, You Aren't Serious (0.00 / 0)

And you can't say Reed and legacy in the same sentence.  Like adding a negative to a negative.  You must not know much about Edward Brooke so I will refrain from assailing your statement as a friend of his family.  However I will only state that Dems should thank the Gods for Davis and the awakening that will occur in the near future. 

You have no polling data on the Govs race so your statement is easliy dismissed.  Davis is far from a "loner" as you and Joe Reeed will soon discover.  Davis has done more to bring the plight of the Black Belt to the forefront than anyone before him and certainly anyone after him if the current field of replacements are any indication.

And unlike a parasitic leach like Reed, even if Davis does not prevail he will move forward in an even bigger role to continue down the path of change.  The office needs Davis not the other way around.  I know it is hard for poverty pimps, racists and garden variety thiefs to understand Davis and what makes him tick.  Bottom line, he cant be bought, he cant be outhtought and certainly cant be outmaneuvered by amatures like Sparks and Reed.  They better get ready for 2010.

 June 2010


[ Parent ]
Tell Me Sir (0.00 / 0)

Just what has Davis done for his congressional district since he got elected?

Name me the landmark legislation or show me the transformational appropriations that changed the Black Belt.

I'm waiting... 


[ Parent ]
Are you thinking of a 2002 redux? (0.00 / 0)

I believe Artur Davis successfully used incumbent Earl Hilliard's lack of successful legislation during his 10 years in office to undermine Hilliard's support.

Davis was able to hang around Hilliard's neck the accusation that, in his 10 years in Congress, Hilliard had been paid $1.5 million but delivered almost nothing. "He didn't have one thing he could hang his hat on," noted Natalie Davis, a professor at Birmingham Southern College. Hilliard had not introduced legislation to improve his constituents' lives, said Prof. Davis. Instead, Hilliard introduced a failed bill called the Rabbit Inspection Act of 1999 -- a measure to require inspection of rabbit meat for human consumption. Naturally, the comical-sounding bill played right into the hands of Davis' campaign, which ran a TV ad that ended with a rabbit's face and the question: "Send Earl Hilliard back to Washington: Why?"

I rather doubt that dog will hunt against Davis, but I'm not surprised it's being trotted out.



Work harder and work smarter!
[ Parent ]
This list is by no means exhaustive (4.00 / 1)

Here are some accomplishments of Davis in Congress worth highlighting:

  1. Working to create, expand, and preserve empowerment zones for economic development in distressed areas.  These tax breaks encourage businesses to form in areas that need jobs, provided that the local community utilizes them.  Davis has been a vocal leader on this issue throughout his time in Congress.
  2. Fight for the rights of black farmers to have their day in court by crafting and passing legislation to reopen the Pigford suit.
  3. Won floor fights to restore funding to HOPE VI.
  4. Worked to restore funding to historically black colleges.
  5. Through both his role in Congress and on Alabama's Black Belt Regional Commission, Davis has worked to increase access to health care in across his district, using both public and private resources.

[ Parent ]
Another Note (0.00 / 0)
I call your bluff, what candidates did he support behind the scenes that lost?  You wont name one because if he did he would have done so openly.  Cowards like Joe Reed and AEA, ALFA etc do that kind of BS.  Who does Davis have to fear????  He doesn't owe anyone bt the folks that elected him. 
[ Parent ]
I Never Said He Should Fear Anything (0.00 / 0)
I have never known Joe Reed to hide his support or endorsements regardless how popular or unpopular they may be. I also have never known AEA to hide theirs. As a matter of fact they normally print their endorsement in their Journal. Alfa also publishes theirs as does BCA.
[ Parent ]
The Correct Observation..... (0.00 / 0)

Is that you have no clue as to who has a future in the Democratic party.  Since you are one person with limited viewpoints I am not sure you would be considered an authority on this and other matters.  The question is do you have a place in the party.  Like Redeye, your mypic view of the party and its members show a unique lack of vision.  The true questions is can the majority of the party tolerate outliers like you?  We will see...

June 2010


[ Parent ]
Redeye has Logic Twin (0.00 / 0)

"Traditional backers of Democrats". does anyone else find this to be a completely strange observation.  If you do research, just a little, you will notice that Joe Reed only rises from the cess pool of his existence to champion anything that benifits him.  He wets himself as other dying power borkers do when they think of Davis.  Their days grow short and they know they wont be able to steal and lie to good Dems for much longer.

Davis could win a Congressional seat in any Distgrict so take that ot the bank.  Who cares what politicos are whispering and they whisper because Davis and other non beholding Dems will politically beat the crap out of them.  Reed should know this by now but maybe he has some kind of comprehension disorder and and cant get his mind to do what his gut tells him.  No matter, the clock ticks for him and the old guard.


[ Parent ]
Yeah, It's All About Him.. (4.00 / 1)

From the Tuscaloosa News 12 Most Powerful People in Alabama.

It's not necessarily Reed's affiliation with the AEA that earns him a spot on the list. Instead, his chairmanship of the Alabama Democratic Conference, the predominantly black political wing of the Democratic Party, puts him in a position of influence. Reed, 70, uses his group's base, the court systems and legislative reapportionment apparatus to draw legislative, state school board and congressional district lines.

His reapportionment efforts keep the Legislature majority Democrat even though Alabama votes Republican in statewide and national races.

LETS READ THAT AGAIN:His reapportionment efforts keep the Legislature majority Democrat even though Alabama votes Republican in statewide and national races.

Reed drafted legislative district plans in 1982 and 1992, which increased black representation in the House from 13 to 27 and in the state Senate from 3 to 8. Since then, he has drawn and successfully help pass reapportionment and redistricting plans that favor blacks and Democrats. Reed's efforts have resulted in Alabama's Legislature reflecting the state's black population percentage. As a result of Reed's efforts, Alabama also has a congressional district that has elected two blacks since 1992 and two blacks to the state school board.

"We're the only state in the nation that has black elected legislative representation equal to black population," he said.

Yeah, you know what, it's ALL ABOUT HIM, right?


[ Parent ]
If You Ever Met Reed (0.00 / 0)
You would immediately realize that he is incable of drafting anyhting especially a piece of legislation.  Someone did it for him only after the Justice Department took ip the issue not before.  He is unable to move unless someone pulls a string or two. 
[ Parent ]
Your Animosity (0.00 / 0)

blinds what little intelligence you supposedly have. Have you ever TALKED to Reed? Of course you haven't. So how do you know what he didn't do? I guess all the reporters, politicians, and activists who were actually there while you were Monday Morning Quarterbacking were lying, huh.  

Here's what I do know for sure...YOU haven't done anything to change the political opportunities in this state or help the people in my community with your sweat equity, much less your pointless rhetoric so it really doesn't matter what you think.  

 

 


[ Parent ]
Ha!!! (4.00 / 1)

Yes I have had a great number of conversations with Reed who I consider to be weak both mentally and politically.  He can't see the wall that he is approaching and he obviously is not a student of the Art of War or tactician in any way.

Mt record is complete and filled with community work I have done for 12 years.  Unlike you I feed the poor, hungrey and dissadvantaged.  Unlike you, I mentor and tutor other Africna American males like myself. Also, along the way I bult a very successful aircraft supply distribution company, make payroll and can retire now that I am 33. 

And you.......By the way learn to use words in proper context such as rhetoric.  It is a sign that you did not pay attention in class when you should have.


[ Parent ]
There is obviously so much background that we will never know (4.00 / 1)
about why Reed was adamantly against Obama and now Davis. This kind of talk and tearing apart the party is what will keep Democrats from winning the governors race.
It May Be Time.... (4.00 / 1)

to tear it apart an build it anew.  What we have is not working especially when more than half the elected Dems in the Legislature are considering switching parties if they could and the rest are scared of their own shadows.

 


[ Parent ]
Educated guesses are possible (0.00 / 0)

Reed and Earl Hilliard, Sr. were contemporaries and friends and Hilliard was ADC. 

As for Clinton, it was the same reason many, many established Democrats backed Clinton: ''I'm known for keeping my word and a long time ago I gave my word I'd support Hillary,'' Reed said. ''I thought she was the most qualified candidate and the only real argument for supporting Barack was that he's black. That wasn't enough.''  That's what he told Chuck Dean. 

Translation for the politically naive: "I'm a friend of the Clintons and if they get back in the White House I'll have some pull." 

The article is part of the archive and behind a fee wall now, but Dean also included this quote from Reed: "My theory is that nothing politically right is morally wrong."  When you start thinking that way, you're on a slippery slope, for sure.



Work harder and work smarter!
[ Parent ]
FRICKIN' AMAZING (0.00 / 0)

First you call the guy a race man, but when he gets behind a white candidate it's only because he wants juice? C'mon....at least ACT like you're objective. I thought being able to take someone at their word was a good thing. He gambled early and based on the conventional wisdom at that time, he was right to do so. His candidate lost. Not the first time that's happened to Reed nor ADC (He was a Herbert Hoover delegate way back when and we know how that went). 

BTW, Mooncat, I've heard his quote as just the opposite: "Nothing that is morally wrong is politically right." Makes a big difference when you read it like that doesn't it. Let's get the facts straight next time, chief...


[ Parent ]
Joe Reed is no spring chicken (4.00 / 1)

But it's physically impossible for him to have been a Herbert Hoover delegate.  Hoover last ran for president in 1932 when Joe Reed was approximately -7 years old.  I'm not sure which facts you think I got wrong, but the quote I presented is a direct cut and paste from Chuck Dean's 2008 article to which I provided a link.  Here's the longer snippet:

'I'm in politics for one reason: to use government as an instrument to do good. My theory is that nothing politically right is morally wrong. I know some want to see me get off the stage, but as long as I think I have something to contribute, I'll be around.''



Work harder and work smarter!
[ Parent ]
The Perfect Storm? (4.00 / 1)

Like him or not, Davis is the overwhelming frontrunner and the likely Democratic nominee for governor. Reed was, and is, a powerbroker who can affect a certain percentage of the black vote. Reed has shown a willingness to defeat a Democratic nominee, if that nominee offends him (see John Tyson in the 2006 AG race).

If this keeps up, the danger is that those black voters who follow Reed's leadership will not vote for Davis in November. Guess who benefits from that?

As to the majority minority districts. Wonder why Republicans, of all people, were so supportive of the creation of such districts?

A little math. The standard for a majority minority district is that it must contain 70% black voters to ensure the election of a black candidate. Now each of Alabama's 7 CDs contain roughly 15% of the total population. If CD-7 is 70% black that means roughly 11% of all black voters statewide are in that district. Since blacks make up 25% of all voters statewide that leaves the remaining 14% scattered among the remaining 6 districts.



All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing.
Edmund Burke

Do Not Fear (4.00 / 1)

Davis will make up any losses that Joe Reed could produce by picking up overwhelming numbers of Independents across the spectrum and moderate Republicans.  Rambling Joe wont be able to match that and he knows it.  Every word that man utters makes Davis stronger and stronger. 

June 2010


[ Parent ]
I tend to agree (0.00 / 0)

Every time Joe Reed or Jesse Jackson criticizes Artur Davis, he picks up a few more votes.  Ditto every time the rift between Davis and AEA makes the news.  Dr. Hubbert is a really smart guy and I think he knows this and maybe figures it's a way he can help a Democrat get back in the governor's office without lifting a finger or raising a dime.   That's pure speculation on my part, btw, but I have no doubt the animosity between Reed and Davis is real and personal. 



Work harder and work smarter!
[ Parent ]
John Tyson Thought The Same Thing (0.00 / 0)

I'd rather have Reed in my tent peeing out, than outside my tent peeing in. Swim at your own risk Congressman.


[ Parent ]
The Simple Reality Is (0.00 / 0)

John Tyson is no Artur Davis.  Apples and plums comparison.  Reed's support makes Davis enelectable so to hell with it.  I know if Davis got Reed's endorsement I would not be comfortable with him at all.

A vote of confidence from Reed is all but an indictement.  Thanks but no thanks.


[ Parent ]
I'm Sure (0.00 / 0)

...that's what Davis's consultants told him as well. Run to the Right. Throw your base under the bus. Teachers...who needs 'em. Blacks, they'll blindly vote for you. Union members....they'll understand. Don't worry go after the "moderates". Go after the "independents". That's how you win.

Well, time will tell if his logic is right and I'm not talking about the primary. I expect him to win that. I'll say it again, I expect him to win that. I just want to see him win in the general when there won't be a dime's worth of difference between he and the Republican nominee....without the support of many in the Democratic establishment not named Reed.


[ Parent ]
Please explain ... (0.00 / 0)

What is this throwing of teachers and union members and blacks under the bus? 

And I agree, Davis appears to have a lock on the primary.  However, I can see lots more than a dime's worth of difference between him and any of the Republican field. 



Work harder and work smarter!
[ Parent ]
How Artur Davis threw blacks, teachers and unions under the bus. (0.00 / 0)

1.  Voting against the affordable health care reform bill when the majority of his constitutents who don't have access to affordable health care are African American in order to appeal to white moderates/oonservatives.

I am a supporter of health care reform who believes that the House leadership’s approach is not the best we can do. Because we risk a disaster if we get this wrong, I will vote no on the House legislation and continue to root for a final bill that fixes the holes in our health care system and contains soaring costs in both the private and public sectors.

2.  The Azaela Trails Maids.  Instead of suggesting there be more than one official representative from Alabama in the inaugeration of the first African American President, Congressmen Davis sided with Jefferson Beauregaurd Sessions and helped spin it in the media as an indictment of the girls themseleves.  Again, this was done to appease white moderates/conservatives.

No other details from the network were immediately available, but a spokeswoman for Rep. Artur Davis, D-Birmingham, said he was being interviewed for the segment. In a statement, Davis, the only black member of the Alabama congressional delegation, said he is disappointed that "a multi-racial group which represents the entire community of Mobile has unfairly been criticized."

Reverend Jerimiah Wright and the Selma Bridge Crossing.  For some reason, Artur Davis thought the organizers should uninvite Reverend Jerimiah Wright to the annual Selma Bridge Crossing commeration.  Strike that, we know the reason...

Davis said in a letter to organizers that the pastor's divisive rhetoric is inconsistent with the theme of the event and President Obama's message of unity. Obama left Wright's Chicago church last year.

The Auburn Confederate Flag flap, once again Artur Davis trots out to tell black folks to STFU and STFD.

U.S. Rep. Artur Davis, D-Birmingham, said Saturday he did not condone Auburn Councilman Arthur L. Dowdell removing Confederate flags from the graves in Pine Hill Cemetery. The flags were placed on the graves as part of today’s Confederate Memorial Day observance.

Blacks/Teachers/ Union are a trifecta.  Bashing and smashing the Associate Executive Secretary of the Alabama Education Association who happens to be a African American counts as throwing the teachers the union represents under the bus.  For those who are tired of Joe Reed and have decided it's time for him not to be the messenger you might want to examine his history and how he became the Executive Secretary of AEA.

Joe Reed is known as a “fighter for fairness” for black representation. In 1975, Joe Reed led the efforts to get equitable representation for blacks on the Montgomery City Council. His efforts resulted in four (4) blacks of nine (9) being elected. He served on the Montgomery City Council for 24 years. In the Democratic Party today, Alabama’s black representation exceeds all other states in the nation. For over 40 years he has led the effort to get more blacks elected and appointed to public office, including federal marshals, federal and state judges, members of the boards of registrars, legislators, county commissioners, city councils, and school boards. Due largely to his leadership, today Alabama has more black elected officials than any state in the nation. He drafted two (2) plans that increased black representation in the Alabama House of Representatives from 13 to 27; and in the Senate from 3 to 8 in 1982, and 1992, respectively. He also drew a reapportionment plan that provided for 25% (two of eight) majority black districts on the State Board of Education. Alabama is the only state in the nation where the Legislature reflects the state’s population of blacks and whites. Dr. Reed’s congressional plan also led to Alabama’s gaining a black congressional seat.

Dr. Reed has done nothing to deserve contempt or condemnation.  Wait, maybe he has....

Joe Reed is known as a “fighter for fairness” for black representation.

So now we know.  There is a movement to replace Joe Reed, someone who is know as a fighter for fairness" for black representation, with someone who isn't known as a fighter for fairness for black representation. In other words, replace Field Negro behavior with House Negro Behavior.  

It remains to be seen if Davis' gamble pays off and that white moderates/conservatives will make up  the difference in the African American vote.  If Davis wins the primary it will be without my vote.

 

 



The work goes on, the cause endures, the hope still lives and the dreams shall never die.~Senator Edward M. Kennedy (D. MA)


[ Parent ]
Tell Us Something New (4.00 / 1)

Joe Reed is past his prime and becoming an embarrasment to himself just like Wright and the Council member from Auburn.  Time to move forward and evolve like it or not.

I am sure Davis will not loose sleep over you not supporting him but thankfully there will be thousands more that will. Perhaps your logic is aybe if I keep throwing the same tired arguments against the wall maybe one will stick.  Your time wasted not ours.

 June 2010


[ Parent ]
Get over the Trail Maids, for pity's sake! (0.00 / 0)

Not one person was actually harmed* by any of the examples you named.  Those are all straw men -- you don't like certain behaviors and your reaction is to claim someone is being harmed.  It just isn't so. 

The House vote was just Act II for the health care bill -- the objective is to survive.  Act III is the Senate.  Act IV will be the compromise bill and that's when we'll be in make or break territory.  The Azalea Maids and Rev. Wright are of no importance whatsoever, except as weapons of mass distraction.  The City Councilman who took the flags (and it doesn't matter one whit what kind of flags they are) off graves is certainly morally and probably legally in the wrong.  You'd be better off to drop the last three from your repertoire altogether, and wait for the final outcome before claiming harm from the first item.

*OK, I will admit your obsession over the Azalea Trail Maids last January did raise my blood pressure somewhat, but fortunately there was no lasting damage.



Work harder and work smarter!
[ Parent ]
Get over ethics reform, PAC to PAC abuse, Constiution reform and Artur Davis for pities sake! (2.00 / 1)

See how that sounds?  Sounds a lot like, get over the 2000 election for pities sake.  Get over we were lied to about WMD in Iraq for pities sake.  Get over we torturted people.  Get over FISA and the Patriot Act for pities sake.  Just STFU and STFU Down. Quit your whining and griping for pities sake.

Sorry no can do.  The Azeala Trail maids and others may be a weapon of mass distraction to you, but they are important to me.  I can't and don't expect you to understand why, all I continue to ask is you respect my right (no pun) to freedom of speech about what ever issue I choose. 

As far as the Councilman taking the flags off the graves being morally (huh?) and probably legally wrong (double huh?) that's your opinion.  It's my opinion the people who put the flags on the graves did something morally and probabloy legally wrong.  Morally, because they know how offensive massive Confederate flag displays are to African Americans especially right after the inaugeration of President Obama, http://leftinalabama.com/showDiary.do?diaryId=4191 and legally, because we don't know if they had survivors permission to place confederate flags on their loved ones graves.  But that's not the point.  The point is Artur Davis's position, strike that, it's about Artur Davis trotting out and telling black folks what to get over for pities sake.  Artur Davis, nor anyone else has the right (pun intended) to tell me what to get over or when to get it over it. 

OK, I'll admit your obsession with Artur Davis http://leftinalabama.com/showDiary.do?diaryId=4450 is raising my blood pressure, but I fear is doing lasting damage to what I thought was a friendship.  Friends don't tell friends what to say and how to say it, or what to get over for pities sake.  That's like telling a rape victim to just get over get over being raped.

What ever happened to Left in Alabama, http://leftinalabama.com/diary/3335/, the placefor progressive voices discuss progressives politics in Alabama?  And what happened to our standards?  http://leftinalabama.com/diary/2364/.  Remember this? http://leftinalabama.com/diary/2907/

 



The work goes on, the cause endures, the hope still lives and the dreams shall never die.~Senator Edward M. Kennedy (D. MA)


[ Parent ]
Okay, that does it (4.00 / 1)
That's like telling a rape victim to just get over get over being raped.

I strongly suggest you take a trip over to Shakesville or perhaps some other feminist blogs and read up on how offensive it is to trivialize rape, for God's sake, by comparing it to being asked to tone down your rhetoric.

...all I continue to ask is you respect my right (no pun) to freedom of speech about what ever issue I choose.

Redeye, the right to free speech refers to government regulation of your speech.  Left in Alabama is not a government entity, and the person who pays the hosting costs has every right to set any rules she sees fit.  As mooncat has told you before, there is plenty of free blogging software available to anyone who wants to set up a site and rant at will.  You can avail yourself of it anytime you like.

And, by the way, mooncat is not obsessed with Artur Davis.  You are.


[ Parent ]
I feel the strain on our friendship and it truly distresses me (0.00 / 0)

Seriously.  But I'm tired of hearing all this crap.  It would be far healthier to get over these things that are in the past and move on to making a difference in the future.  One of your links was to the reasons Dale Jackson was banned and one of those reasons was that he distracted people from the important business of pushing a progressive agenda.  Look in the mirror on that one -- to date all you are doing is looking backwards and complaining -- complaining about fellow Democrats to boot, not even doing us the grace of venting your anger on the real opposition.

And let's be clear about this -- I think you need to get over the Trail Maids, the stealing of flags off graves (still can't believe you think that's a good plan) and a whole bunch of other stuff that's in the past.  If Artur Davis told you to get over it, I missed it, so don't blame him for this one.  It's my opinion that you need to get over it, but even if you don't, I wish you would quit sharing your anger with the rest of us because I am sick of it and I don't think I'm the only one.  It drags us down instead of lifting us up.  All this living in the past distracts from the important business of making the future better.

Which is where ethics reform, constitutional reform, a ban on PAC to PAC transfers and so forth come in.  Those are all concrete things that need to get done so we have more open, more accountable, and better state government.  That's progressive!  Life is too damned short to waste it crying over split milk

May I respectfully suggest that you empower yourself: 

Blogger.com

Wordpress.com

Livejournal.com

Thoughts.com

 

 



Work harder and work smarter!
[ Parent ]
The battles you pick (4.00 / 1)

You might take it as Davis is throwing people under the bus by regularly citing these three instances, but I'll present a countering opinion.  Davis's words on each of the three occasions you cite (Azalea Trail Maids, Jeremiah Wright in Selma, Confederate flag on graves) refers to what I will term "cosmetic battles."  Davis's words are to not focus upon these as they detract from other, more important battles, especially those we face in race relations.  Not only that, fighting these battles brings out fringe conservative voices and empowers them, both because they respond and the media gives them space to respond. 

 For example, bringing Jeremiah Wright to Selma makes him the focus rather than the bridge crossing, and it gives space for fringe groups to bring up Wright again.  The Confederate flag issue brougth the KKK out, which points to the fact that the flag has different meanings to different people,and that meaning even varies depending upon the location of the flag(s) in question (the Confederate battle flag on a grave raises a different issue than it on the statehouse, at a football game, or on the side of I-65). 

Davis's comments that you bring out follows this line of advice--be wise about which battles you pick.


[ Parent ]
Very well said (0.00 / 0)

... to not focus upon these as they detract from other, more important battles, especially those we face in race relations.  Not only that, fighting these battles brings out fringe conservative voices and empowers them, both because they respond and the media gives them space to respond.

I couldn't agree more.  That accurately captures something I've been trying to convey for months.  Thank you for finding the words.



Work harder and work smarter!
[ Parent ]
That worked out really well for Alabama, didn't it (4.00 / 1)

Oh, yeah, man!  I'm so glad to have 4 years of Troy King as Attorney General instead of John Tyson -- who is a competent prosecutor and actually knows something about the law!  Gawd, we really dodged a bullet by sending John Tyson down to defeat in 2006!  Thank you, Joe Reed!

Not!



Work harder and work smarter!
[ Parent ]
Then Tyson (0.00 / 0)

Should've picked his battles better. He should've stood down when asked too in Mobile. You don't see Troy King going after any Repubs...why because he understands politics. He knows you don't go after your own. Maybe if John Tyson appreciated that he would've made better decisions.

That being said, Tyson didn't win JUST because ADC didn't endorse him. They didn't cost him the 80,000 plus votes he lost by. You know that. He wasn't a great candidate and he couldn't raise enough money.


[ Parent ]
Make up your mind (0.00 / 0)

First John Tyson's an example of what happens when you don't bow to Joe Reed, then Reed had nothing to do with his loss.  Which is it?  Can't be both.

And asking a prosecutor to "stand down" (which I read to mean "back off") from some cases to get political support is a rather barefaced assertion that politics plays a part in who does and does not get prosecuted in this state.  I reject the notion that the system should work that way. 



Work harder and work smarter!
[ Parent ]
Yes indeed! (0.00 / 0)
The Republicans can do math too and that's exactly why they are happy to corral all the minorities into a few districts -- more left over for them!

Work harder and work smarter!
[ Parent ]
As I have said before (0.00 / 0)

Then White Democrats/Progressives need to do more work changing the hearts and minds of their neighbors, people in their churches,  and organizations.

Maybe if you were less concerned about the Joe Reeds, Hank Sanders, and Bobby Singleton's you'd do a better job of that.  


[ Parent ]
It's Been Fun Guys (0.00 / 0)

Gotta get some shuteye.

Until we meet again...stay classy.


[ Parent ]
Feel free to pitch in (4.00 / 1)

Bad stuff about the opposition and good stuff about Dems and progressive policy is always welcome.

I know who Joe Reed is and have written less than a dozen posts about him in two and a half years -- largely because he isn't relevant to progressive issues except when he gets in the way.  I also know who Hank Sanders is and have written a handful of posts mentioning him, as many positive as not.  Bobby Singleton is in the State Senate and I have rarely, if ever, written about him.

In case you've missed it, I've suggested to some diarists here -- over and over and over, ad nauseum -- that we're focussing a little too much on the politics of race.  Some folks only have a hammer, apparently. 



Work harder and work smarter!
[ Parent ]
Maybe YOU would be more effective (4.00 / 1)

in making your case if you were less obsessed with the supposed perfidy of Artur Davis.

I checked your comment history. Of your 30 total comments (including the 17 on this thread),  only 3 are NOT about Davis.  And one of those is the "good night" comment up thread.

There are a lot of issues facing Alabama and a LOT of candidates to write about.  

Surely you can find something positive to say about at least one Democratic candidate?  Who are you supporting and why?  Make the case and help the candidate get more attention from progressives.

The unending negativity and single focus on just one candidate makes you look more like a drive by blogger than a community member and makes it harder for others to take you seriously.



I'm not short.  I'm fun size!!
[ Parent ]
Oh, and by the way... (4.00 / 1)

I was extremely complimentary towards Bobby Singleton during the past legislative session.  He was one of the good guys during the phone deregulation debate:

Sadly, it was Democratic Senators who sold out the rural residents of Alabama.  President Pro Tem, Roger Smitherman, introduced the bill.  Rules Committee Chair, Lowell Barron, allowed it to come to the floor for a vote - multiple times because Bobby Singleton filibustered for several days.

 



I'm not short.  I'm fun size!!
[ Parent ]
The perfect storm is right (pun intended) OP (0.00 / 0)

Davis may or may not be the front runner and the likely democratic nominee, but IF he is the nominee it will be because white conservadems and crossover moderate/progressive republican voters make him the nominee.  Conservadems and moderate/progressive dems are desperate to change the perception of Alabama's image.  For some reason they believe white folks electing a black governor will change Alabama history but I digress.

Who benefits from blak voters not voting for Davis in November?  Not we progressives/liberals that's fer sure.  As a matter of fact IF black voters vote for Davis is November who benefits?  Not black voters that's fer sure.  So it's a damned if we do, damned if we don't.  What to do and where to go?

After reading this thread My mother, (who is a Joe Reed supporter btw) said whites talk about Joe Reed the same way they used to talk about Martin Luther King, Jr.  She said white folks didn't love Martin Luther King, Jr. until he was dead and buried.  Prior to his death King was called Martin Luther Coon, an outside agitator, rabble rouser, trouble maker, marxist, socialist, communist, powerbroker, etc.   J.Edgar Hoover called him a pervert (isn't that ironic?).

We shall over come ONE day.

*Sigh*



The work goes on, the cause endures, the hope still lives and the dreams shall never die.~Senator Edward M. Kennedy (D. MA)


[ Parent ]
Laughing (0.00 / 0)

I was planning to read all the comments but when I came across one that said Davis was progressive on LGBT issues, I started laughing and couldn't read any more.

Anyway, Davis may have more class, but Reed is right.   

 


Regarding LGBT issues (4.00 / 1)
I don't think anyone said Davis is progressive on LGBT issues, but several people seem to have construed this comment that way.  Note I crossed out the LGBT because his voting record does (sadly) support Redeye's statement there.  It wasn't as clear as it should have been and I apologise for creating confusion.

Work harder and work smarter!
[ Parent ]
Yikes, I misread it. (4.00 / 2)
The comment by kayman said "But there should be no doubt that Artur Davis is far, far, far from progressive when it comes to gay rights," and I read it as far "more."  That kind of mistake can get me in trouble.  Sorry.
[ Parent ]
Very Well Stated from Artur Davis (4.00 / 1)
Congressman Davis did a great job stating the facts on the issue.  His statement resonates well with many in the Democratic Party, AEA, and both "black AND white" Alabamians.
 
There is no room for Dr. Reed to deny ANY of the items listed.
 
Its a new day for Alabama, even though we deal with many of the same issues.  We must determine effective ways to solve these issues. 
 
Artur Davis is definitely what Alabama needs to move forward as he demonstrated in the release.

Dear Dr. Reed: Who are "Bubba and Cooter, Big Man and June Bug?" | 95 comments
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