Political Nanny

Political Nanny is Moving Out ... But Not Away

Madeline Holler — Mon, 07 Apr 2008 10:18:00 GMT

Political Nanny has packed up the candidates' clothes, toys and night-night blankets, loaded the moving van with their position papers, teleprompters and weighty political baggage, and sent change of address notices to their aides, managers, proxies and the press pool. In other words: Political Nanny has moved!

The good news is, she hasn't gone far. Just up and over to Strollerderby, where she'll still be keeping an eye on the last three candidates in her charge and everybody else around them. Political Nanny will still be there to give out cookies, put rule-breakers in the Naughty Chair and bulk up the babes with a little formula supplement on the issues.

The new digs won't change a thing! Political Nanny is still the one who stays awake to answer the phone at 3 a.m., she's fired up and ready to go, she wants change, too. It's too soon for nanny withdrawal, this surge into Strollerderby will work -- it's already working, my friends. She's staying in this race until November! Yes she can!

So reconfigure your RSS feeds and meet her upstairs at Strollerderby. See you there!

And a sidenote to all those who wrote her with concerns: smooch! Now wipe the lipstick off your cheek and go play.

Photo: sandiegohomeblog.com

Clinton Smackdown Chelsea-Style

Madeline Holler — Wed, 26 Mar 2008 18:17:00 GMT

Ohhhhh, if Chelsea Clinton isn't the whole package. Political Nanny can't wait to take care of the youngest Clinton when she's running for president.

While out campaigning for her mom at a college campus, Chelsea responds to a question about the Monica Lewinsky scandal. Watch. Mama must be proud. (Daddy is probably under his desk rocking himself in shame.)

Clinton and Obama Long Lost Cousins of the Jolie-Pitts

Madeline Holler — Tue, 25 Mar 2008 23:36:00 GMT

Just one big happy family, right? It turns out, Hillary Clinton is related to Angelina Jolie. And Barack Obama is Brad Pitt's distant cousin. Could this be why we're reading about fights between America's favorite global-adoption couple? (The Jolie-Pitts, not the Democratic candidates!)

Researchers at the New England Geneological Society hunted down family connections for all three of the presidential candidates. Let's see who else is in the family.

Clinton, who is French-Canadian on her mother's side, is also related to Madonna (score!), Celine Dion (oh.), and Alanis Morissette (huh. Ironic.) She also gets Jack Kerouac and Camilla Parker-Bowles.

Obama is related to at least six American presidents, including (ahem!) George W. Bush (gonna use that Hillary?). Also, George H.W. Bush, Gerald Ford, Lyndon Johnson, Harry S. Truman and James Madison. Other Obama cousins include Vice President Dick Cheney, British Prime Minister Sir Winston Churchill and Civil War General Robert E. Lee.

John McCain is related to Laura Bush (booooring!). Researchers have a hard time filling out the family tree of McCain, but Political Nanny thinks it could shed some light on the whole nasty teeth thing.

On the Pitt and Jolie lineage, from the AP:

Pitt and Obama are ninth cousins, linked by Edwin Hickman, who died in Virginia in 1769. Ben LaBolt, a spokesman for the Obama campaign, declined to comment on the senator's ancestry.

Clinton and Jolie are ninth cousins, twice removed, both related to Jean Cusson who died in St. Sulpice, Quebec, in 1718.

The 1700s? Well, Political Nanny is probably related to all of them too!

Ugly Teeth on the Campaign Trail

Madeline Holler — Tue, 25 Mar 2008 17:13:00 GMT

The votes are in. Dentists are not impressed with the Republican nominee's smile.

A recent poll of 400 dentists found John McCain's smile the worst of all the candidates. Only six percent found McCain's smile the best of the lot (Mitt Romney got 45 percent of the vote.) Barack and the other John (Edwards) were nearly tied at 38 and 36 percent.

Mike Huckabee got 10 percent of the vote. While Political Nanny discourages her candidates from competing in the superficial, she can't help but feel that when your smile is judged worse than Mike Huckabee's, it's time to make an appointment with a Beverly Hills cosmetic dentist.

In fact, John McCain's yellowed, aging teeth are attracting attention (and comments) for what they are not: whitened, straight, youthful, lovely.

Alas, some kids, no matter how much their caregivers encourage brushing after meals and regular flossing, develop cavities and a surface patina. Still, we clearly have more work to do at the sink. John, sit please. Political Nanny's getting out a chisel and the Crest Whitestrips.

Thanks Buzzfeed for the tip!

Hollywood Happy Ending

Madeline Holler — Mon, 24 Mar 2008 19:42:00 GMT

Sure, the candidates come and go (most of them having already gone). But as a nanny, you still care. Which is why Political Nanny is happy to report that one of her charges has found work in the day job that he ill-advisedly quit to run for president.

Fred Thompson is back in Hollywood.

Sure, even if the 65-year-old were to reprise a role as enjoyable as that of the forceful, determined, hardworking Arthur Branch on "Law & Order," any viewing of the masterful thespian will be tainted by still-fresh memories of his lackluster performance as a presidential hopeful.

But he's back where he belongs: surrounded by liberals, agents, scripts, outlandish riders and long periods of time off. Break a leg, Freddy, break a leg!

Photo: Reuters

Equality Now! McCain Gets a Music Video

Madeline Holler — Thu, 20 Mar 2008 17:05:00 GMT

Justice! Political Nanny has finally uncovered a music video for precious Johnny. Sure, he's a little uptight, but Obama shouldn't be the only one with a campaign set to catchy tunes.

Hallelujah, indeed! It's raining McCain.

The Story of a Little Dick

Madeline Holler — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 10:44:00 GMT

We're going to step outside the scope of presidential candidate care today and talk about a little Dick named Cheney.

A pair of satirists, political mannies if you will, have published Young Dick Cheney: A Great American, a book about the adventures of their rascally charge, vice president Dick Cheney. The authors, frequently heard on NPR, recount in meticulous detail (plus footnotes!) the story of a secretive yet sensitive boy from Wyoming with a shoot-from-the-hip, shoot-in-the-face style all his own.

From the promo:

A wickedly funny faux-children's biography recounts Young Dick Cheney’s youthful lust for guns, oil, and the girl of his dreams.

He was born among the big skies and cow pies of the Great American West. And yet from these humble beginnings, he would grow to become the most famous, most powerful Dick ever to inhabit the Vice Presidency. In this often shocking, frequently touching, clearly unauthorized biography, faux journalists Bruce Kluger and David Slavin (National Public Radio) reveal the inspiring and sometimes even true story of Richard B. Cheney—frontiersman, freedom fighter, fatty.

The book is not quite ready for circletime reading (publication date April 1, 2008, of course!). But you can pre-order a copy today.

Photo: Alternet.org

Barack's Big Boy Speech

Madeline Holler — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 21:12:00 GMT

Barack should thank his controversial preacher.

The fiery sermons of Rev. Jeremiah Wright, which were widely played and criticized this past week, set the very stage in Philadelphia today for Obama to make this very important, very moving, very intelligent speech, "A More Perfect Union." Race is officially out on the table.

By now we all know Obama is a fabulous speaker, but this is the first time Political Nanny has heard him speak like the big boy he's getting to be. For emotional family background highlights, skip ahead to minutes 3:20. Around minute 6:00, he gets to his pastor. Minute 10:00, he's describing the church. And by 13:11, we get how Obama can reconcile the contradictions he says the Rev. Wright embodies. Obama has lived with and been loved by the embodiment of these contradictions his whole life.

"I can no more disown him than I can disown my white grandmother ... a woman who sacrificed again and again for me ... a woman who loves me as much as she loves anything in this world, but a woman who once confessed her fear of black men who passed by in the street. A woman who on more than one occasion uttered racial or ethnic stereotypes that made me cringe. These people are part of me and they are part of America, this country that I love."

He argues Wright was wrong. But that doesn't mean America has put the issues of race behind it. Obama shows he understands what's behind the Rev. Wright's words, and also that he has a deep understanding of the white/sanctimonious America's reaction to it. Neither are off the hook; he lists the consequences of both. Obama relates Wright's anger to the anger of lower and middle class Americans (including whites), who have been called on exclusively to sacrifice for all the injustice without their problems also being heard. He calls out the media for how it as exploited all of it.

The final four minutes tie up his message of unity in a pretty bow -- a demonstration of how we're all in it together, we've all got the same goals. Those goals don't include mustard and relish sandwiches. No, not in America, not for anybody.

Political speeches, especially 30+-minute ones, are often something only a political nanny could love. But not this time. This speech is brilliant -- universally brilliant.

And if you're going to accuse Political Nanny of playing favorites, please note: Charles Murray (yes, the very conservative "some folks are genetically inferior" The Bell Curve guy), thinks it's brilliant too.

What did you think? Does Obama get it? Do McCain or Clinton have enough credibility to deal with race issues? Do you think they get it?

Video: Obama08/YouTube

Bipartisan Dog House: Treats for Conservative, Liberal Pets

Madeline Holler — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 10:17:00 GMT

There you are, pumping your fists at footage from an Obama rally on YouTube, tears gathering in your eyes as you mouth "yes, we can!" Your dog, though -- your best damn friend! -- won't stop slobbering all over himself as he barks "the surge is working, the surge is working!"

You sleep in the same bed, you and your conservative pooch. Yet yours is a house divided.

Reach across the aisle and give your four-legged, small government, flat-tax, butt-sniffing Karl Rover a hand-out. Petlane makes tasty peanut butter-flavored biscuits that come in the shape of any conservative canine's favorite political beast -- an Elephant.

Wait, what did you just say? You're giving comfort to some Bobo, tax-and-spend, weak on defense, baby killing mutt? Well, she's sitting there with her paw out (as usual!). Better give her Petlane's donkey treats, which she'll love just as much as she loves taking away your right to keep and bear arms.

Not sure of your pet's political leanings? The maker of these bipartisan dog biscuits has a list of the signs.

Republican Pets

• They bark at passing neighbors and traffic; home security is very important to them.

• Their ears perk up when Fox News comes on.

• They are a big spender at the local pet store.

• Strongly believe pet matrimony should occur only between two cats or two dogs.

• Believe in the second-amendment right to bare teeth and claws.

• Are for electric border fences around the yard.

• Want national ID tags for all pets.

• They advocate for the pet-tracking chip -- you can never have too much surveillance.

Democratic pets

• They want universal veterinary care for all.

• They want their treats for free.

• They socialize with all breeds at the dog park.

• They prefer their owner uses biodegradable poop bags.

• Are very concerned with the rising cost of pet food.

• Have the young puppy and kitten vote locked.

• Want to end the war of dogs vs. cats once and for all.

• Think of Ralph Nader as the dog catcher.

Photo: Petlane.com

St. Paddy's Day Formula: How Green is Your Candidate?

Madeline Holler — Mon, 17 Mar 2008 11:37:00 GMT

On St. Patrick's Day, everybody's Irish, right? That includes the candidates, two-thirds of whom have traceable Irish roots. (The other married Bill Clinton, who descends from the Irish, too.) But as Political Nanny likes to tell her charges, it doesn't matter where you came from as much as where you plan to take the rest of us. So on this day of shamrocks and parades and beer tinged with food-coloring, let's see which candidate's platform is the greenest of all.

The Grist distilled candidates' positions into a handy table. In summary:

As with most issues, it's difficult to differentiate the Democrats. They both would make polluters pay for the right to pollute, and aim to get nationwide carbon emissions down to 1990 levels by 2050. They both want to raise fuel emission standards to 35 mpg by 2020. They both have multi-billion dollar plans for investment in renewable energy -- Obama aiming to get 30 percent of the federal government's energy from renewable sources within the next two decades. The Dems both want to require 60 billion gallons of biofuels produced by 2030. Neither loves nuclear energy, considering the water and storage problems. But Obama said it should be a part of the energy mix. Clinton doesn't want it emphasized as an option until those problems are addressed.

On coal they differ a bit. They both support clean coal, but Obama says he'll keep new dirty coal facilities from being built. He had some making up to do to environmentalists when, a few years ago, he sang the praises of liquified coal, which he now supports only with the above-described qualifications. Greenies also cast a suspicious eye on Obama, fearing his reach across the aisle could mean watering down tough but necessary environmental action.

Like the Dems, McCain also supports selling off pollution rights, but calls for much less aggressive reduction in carbon emissions around the country. He supports better fuel efficiency for cars, but hasn't laid out a specfic number like the Dems. He did introduce legislation in the Senate that would require all cars to get 36 mpg by 2016. McCain has no specific targets on renewable energy. He likes biofuels but opposes subsidies for ethanol. He's fine with coal but wants to find cleaner ways to use it -- no mandates or plans, though. He supports nuclear energy and has submitted bills which contain significant support for the nuclear energy industry. Back when other Republicans were putting quote marks around global warming, McCain was calling for action.

Now, campaigning has got to be one of the most unenviromentally friendly endeavors around. All those plane trips, all those buses, disposable everything -- not just for the candidates but for their entire entourage (and the press!). Clinton's campaign purchased carbon offsets, among other "green" strategies. Neither of the other two candidates mentions greening their campaigns. But environmentalism starts at home, and here's what they've done:

Clinton says: we have switched not only lamps to compact fluorescent light bulbs, but also downlights, track lights, and vanity lights. We've installed motion-sensor light switches so lights automatically turn off when there is no one moving in the room, and switched to buying our power from ConEdison's green power program. We're also reducing our demand for energy by replacing windows and doors to keep more heat and cold in. This has taken our total [kilowatt-hour consumption per year] from about 14,000 to about 4,300. We're currently working with the Rocky Mountain Institute to determine how we can best incorporate solar energy into our home.

Obama says: We just bought a Ford Escape, so I traded in a non-hybrid for a hybrid. We are in the process of replacing our light bulbs in our house and trying to limit the use of our air conditioning, trying to make sure that we unplug and turn off all of our appliances when we're not using them. It's a fun project to work on with my 9-year-old and my 6-year-old.

McCain says: We just moved from a very large house with swimming pool and grounds into a condominium, so we made a dramatic change. My daughter has a Prius. And we have a place up north where we have solar panels in some of the buildings. But we haven't done enough, and we intend to do more.

Formula Supplement: Which Candidates are in a Family(-Friendly) Way?

Madeline Holler — Fri, 14 Mar 2008 10:37:00 GMT

In an effort to keep the campaign's thighs cute and chubby, Political Nanny is stirring some more substance into the election formula.

Today's supplement: Paid Family Leave

All three candidates support the Family Medical Leave Act. For John McCain, the law that allows workers up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave for family medical emergencies, is working out just fine, as is. He also supports flex-time.

Democrats, on the other hand, appear to want more.

Hillary Clinton has set a goal for all 50 states to have a paid family leave plan by 2016. According to her website, she would propose spending $1 billion every year in grants to encourage states to develop their plans. She wants to expand FMLA to include 13 million more workers. And she would also like to see every American worker guaranteed seven paid sick days annually. She wants to start with federal employees, who now must use sick days and vacation days for paid maternity leave (they can have the 12 weeks of the FMLA, but it's unpaid for them too). Clinton also said she wants to promote businesses that have family-friendly work environments, including flex-time and tele-commuting.

Barack Obama matches Clinton with proposing all workers have at least seven paid sick days per year. He wants to expand FMLA by covering employees of businesses with as few as 25 workers (currently, the act covers businesses with more than 50 workers). He also wants the act to cover workers taking care of old parents or sick members of their household. He wants the act to guarantee qualifying employees 24 hours of leave each year to attend kids' activities. He also wants leave guaranteed for employees to take care of matters involving sexual assault or domestic violence. Obama, too, wants the federal government to encourage states to adopt paid leave for all workers. He proposes $1.5 billion to help the states get started. He wants to see better enforcement of the law guaranteeing people with families will not be discriminated against in the workplace. Obama proposes doubling the spending on afterschool programs and reform the Child Care Tax Credit so that low-income families get as much as 50 percent of their childcare expenses credited. He wants to promote flextime and telecommuting and proposes the federal government act as a model for how other employers can make this work.

Which of these plans would be the best for your family? Remember, only the U.S., Papua New Guinea and Swaziland don't guarantee some type of maternity leave for all working women.

Supplemental reading on issues:

Candidates on Education

Hillary Clinton

John McCain

Barack Obama

Obama's Minister has a Potty Mouth

Madeline Holler — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 21:05:00 GMT

Let's see ... which candidate is at the front of the line to denounce and/or distance him/herself from a supporter/associate/campaign proxy? Yesterday was Hillary's turn. Today it must be Barack's.

Before we get to the daily outrageous Democrat gaffe and/or unearthed quote from a candidate's associate, a recap:

Last week after Little Super Tuesday, Hillary's communications director Howard Wolfson called Barack Obama a dirty name: Ken Starr. Later that day, a newspaper in the U.K. ran an interview with Samantha Power, Barack's foreign policy advisor, who called Clinton "monstrous." Power tried to retract the statement, set off a firestorm of indignance and resigned immediately the next day.

A few days later, Hillary's financial advisor, former VP candidate Geraldine Ferraro said (and didn't retract) that Barack would not be doing so well in the race were he not black. Hillary said she regretted Ferraro's statement. Her level of remorse was scrutinized. Ferraro announced her resignation (but never really said she was sorry).

Which brings us to today (pant, pant)! ABC has "uncovered" (actually, they orderered online) footage of Barack Obama's minister, The Rev. Jeremiah Wright of The Trinity United Church of Christ in Chicago. The outspoken and activist Reverend has all kinds of juicy turns of phrase, like, "God Bless America ... no, no, no, God damn America," and refers to the country in one clip the "U.S. of KKK."

Rev. Wright also says that the U.S. brought on 9-11 with "our own terrorism," and lists bombing Hiroshima and Nagasaki, etc. "America's chickens are coming ... home ... to roost."

Obama didn't comment to ABC for the story, but they quote him from another time he had to answer for his association with Rev. Wright. "He's like an old uncle who sometimes says things I don't agree with." Amen!

Who started it? Who knows. This back-and-forth stuff is the consequence of too much free time for the press -- and, in Political Nanny's rigid opinion, too little supervision! All of which means Political Nanny will be watching Hillary's camp closely to ensure they're not working their way toward yet another controversy. It's comes as really surprising to Political Nanny that John McCain hasn't stepped up recently for a turn.

Photo: Trinity Church of Christ

Mitt to Campaign: Can Johnny Come Out to Play? With Me?

Madeline Holler — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 00:31:00 GMT

Oh, Mitt. You're such a fighter. Such an ambitious, clueless, big-spending fighter. You'll do just about anything to get into the White House. Like, offering, unbidden, to be McCain's VP!

"Hey, I have an idea," says Mitt to McCain, who's ignoring him. "How 'bout YOU be president and I'LL be vice president and we can take turns!"

Mitt's suggestion doesn't have a lot of traction, it seems. Neither is exactly loved by the all important Christian evangelical base. Plus, McCain doesn't even like Mitt. But dang it if that li'l bugger isn't persistent. That's gotta count for something.

So what do you think, John? Care to take back all those nasty things you said about Mr. Mitt? We didn't think so.

Obama Campaign Meets 'Fame: The Musical'

Madeline Holler — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 19:51:00 GMT

Earnest and musically talented Obama supporters, turn that crap down! The voters are napping! You're giving Political Nanny a headache!

Please?

via HuffPo via The Atlantic

Readers Tell McCain's Daughter to Lose Weight

Madeline Holler — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 03:21:00 GMT

Let's take a break from the candidates this evening, and the fact that Barack Obama won Mississippi big, and talk about Political Nanny's little Republican charge, John McCain. Or, more specifically, we're going to talk about his daughter, Meghan.

She keeps a great blog of her daddy's campaign -- it has pictures, light insider gossip, song playlists, pictures of her mom in PJs, political cameos, everything. It's a fun campaign blog even if you're the deepest, darkest blue-state Republican-hating voter out there. Or very cynical like Political Nanny, who reads it in weak moments when she should be paying more substantial attention to her three candidates. The blog avoids crazy criticisms of her Dad's rivals. She sticks to BBQs, fun with the press, and mostly wants the public to know that her mother has a great sense of humor.

In a recent post, she strikes back (kindly) at readers who have sent in diet tips, or mentioned that she might consider shedding a few pounds. Seriously? People recommended she diet? A surgeon even looked to her as a potential client.

From McCainblogette.com

I've been surprised by critical comments regarding my weight and body shape. It recently reached a ridiculous level when someone handed me a business card for a plastic surgeon and suggested I needed liposuction.

First, she's a total looker, really Plus, she's smart, educated, goofy. She's not rail thin (refreshing). She says she likes her curves. Hell, she even puts those curves in horizontal stripes -- the daring! She says she wants to be a role model for her younger sister and wants to maintain a healthy weight.

Second, ugh. Sure, the blogging is for her own personal interests -- a designated bedroom in the White House and her own Secret Service detail. Bagging on Meghan McCain is fair game. She even expects that. But for her looks? Why is that always a risk women have to take when they put themselves out there in the public?

Political Nanny does not approve. Can't the daughter of an aged presidential hopeful take a shot at attracting the youth vote without worrying about the size of her ass?

Photo: McCainblogette.com

Naughty Chair: Feminist Race-Baiter

Madeline Holler — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 10:15:00 GMT

Candidates, candidates, candidates, what was Political Nanny just telling you?!

When you or your proxies call names, it makes voters feel like hating you -- not the intended consequence, right? The latest transgression comes from Geraldine Ferraro (yes, that Geraldine Ferraro!) in an interview with a small Southern California newspaper.

In trying to decry what she sees as sexism against her BFF Hillary, Ferraro comes off as unhinged and a wee bit racist (or, at least, race-baiting) . And that hardly does any favors for the campaign she's working on.

From the Daily Breeze:

"I think what America feels about a woman becoming president takes a very secondary place to Obama's campaign - to a kind of campaign that it would be hard for anyone to run against," she said. "For one thing, you have the press, which has been uniquely hard on her. It's been a very sexist media. Some just don't like her. The others have gotten caught up in the Obama campaign.

"If Obama was a white man, he would not be in this position," she continued. "And if he was a woman (of any color) he would not be in this position. He happens to be very lucky to be who he is. And the country is caught up in the concept." Ferraro does not buy the notion of Obama as the great reconciler.

Now, Geraldine. Stick with the sexism. Talk media bias. Share your feelings. But don't start making his success solely about his race. That's so 1980s of you. Remember what conservatives used to say about affirmative action? Remember why you were selected to run as Walter Mondale's vice president? Remember?

So that's two minutes in the naughty chair, Gerry -- a bit of quiet time to go over talking points and to reflect on appropriate use of negativity in a campaign and inappropriate use. Because let's say Obama WERE a white guy and Hillary were winning. Would that be only because she's a woman?

via Daily Kos

Formula Supplement: Adding Substance to Campaign Diet

Madeline Holler — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 21:07:00 GMT

Coverage of the presidential campaign is increasingly anemic, coming down to, as usual, thin descriptions of polls and attacks.

In areas of substance, where the Democrats are concerned, we only seem to hear about health care plans. Mix in the Republicans, and we're talking about Iraq. Both important issues for sure. But what about the other stuff important to parents -- education, college costs, the mortgage mess, the environment, taxes, Supreme Court judges, etc.

Political Nanny is supplementing the candidates' campaign messages with some iron-fortified formula supplements. Let's see if we can squeeze a bit more substance out of all this hope, change and honor to country.

Today's Formula Supplement: Education

All three candidates -- John McCain, Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama -- plan to leave behind Bush's unfunded federal mandate, No Child Left Behind.

McCain wants to scrap the program, which emphasized testing and punished schools that didn't achieve certain benchmarks, and, according to McCain's website, set low standards. He doesn't say what standards he'll change. He wants schools and teachers to be more competitive and rewarded for good outcomes. He also wants federal money to fund school voucher programs, so parents can send their children to private schools. Vouchers wouldn't cover the entire cost of tuition and fees for some private schools. This free-market idea is that failing schools would have to close down, since enough parents would pull their kids out which would affect the amount of funding each school received. McCain isn't at all specific on funding, but in 2000, when he was running for president, he proposed spending $5.4 billion on a voucher experiment, and $1 billion on tax breaks for teachers who were rated "excellent" in their district. On science curriculum, McCain has said Darwin's theory of evolution is "valid" but that students should be exposed to "every point of view."

Clinton also wants to end NCLB, although she voted for it in 2001. Her plan calls for universal Pre-K for all four-year-olds. She also proposes parenting classes for new parents and wants to improve Head Start and childcare programs. She wants better special-needs and at-risk programs in public schools and has plans to create "green" schools, which would be model environmental facilities. She wants to simplify college financial aid applications, increase Pell Grant amounts and improve community colleges. Her plans include earmarking funds to help increase college graduation rates, double the college tax credit to $3,500 and increase AmeriCorps scholarships. Clinton opposes school vouchers, arguing they would tear apart communities. Daughter Chelsea attended public schools in Arkansas, but went to a private school while living at the White House.

Obama doesn't want to completely get rid of NCLB; rather, he wants to use the testing as a way to help schools guage their progress and improve -- without threats and punishment. He also wants to fund it. The candidate wants testing to also guage high-order thinking, data interpretation and logic. Obama has also proposed universal pre-K programs and looked for ways to meet the needs of all students in public schools. He wants to create the American Opportunity Tax Credit, which would grant the first $4,000 of college costs for low income students and cover two-thirds of the cost of tuition at the average public college or university. He wants to provide grants to high school students whose schools do not have AP courses, so that they can take college classes. Obama also wants to help fund teachers' educations and create mentoring programs for new recruits. His plans would also allow teachers to be rewarded for mentoring, and the time they spend in planning and collaboration. He, too, has been criticized for sending his daughters to a private school in Chicago. He also says he doesn't like vouchers, but if an experiment with them proved to be beneficial, he's willing to change his mind.

Which plan do you like best? Looks like the Democrats have really thought about this. McCain? Well, maybe now that he has some down time he can give it a little more thought.

Links to websites with more details:

Edin08.com

Education Week

The Pew Forum

Photos: FitPregnancy.com; ABC13.com

Obama on Being VP: In Your Dream (Ticket), Hillary!

Madeline Holler — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 10:40:00 GMT

If there's a happy ending for Democrats in this election year fairy tale, it won't be with President Hillary Clinton and Vice President Barack Obama leading their kingdom together happily ever after in Washington, D.C.

The so-called Dream Team ticket, which Hillary had hinted at all last week, ain't gonna happen, Barack Obama insisted after he gathered up 12 more delegates following his big win in the Wyoming caucus.

From Top of the Ticket at LATimes.com:

"... You won’t see me as a vice presidential candidate. You know, I’m running for president. We have won twice as many states as Senator Clinton, and have a higher popular vote, and I think we can maintain our delegate count."

Bill Clinton is also pressing the idea, perhaps to convince Obama, perhaps to plant the idea in voters' minds.

In the past, Political Nanny enthused about the Clinton/Obama dream ticket. But, unless they do an uncomfortable amount of kissing and making up -- perhaps even campaign couples' therapy -- the whole idea feels awkward.

It's 3 a.m. But the Kids are Up Laughing at Hillary

Madeline Holler — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 03:57:00 GMT

There's good news and bad news for Hillary Clinton regarding her now infamous 3 a.m. campaign ad, which some credit for her big wins in Ohio, Texas and Rhode Island on Super Tuesday-Lite last week.

Let's start with the bad news:

One of the nation's precious angels, whose slumbering face represented all that is vulnerable and at stake for the future leader of the U.S. in the ad, actually likes Barack Obama. She's 17-year-old Casey Knowles of Washington state. Instead of losing sleep over who will protect her night and day from terrorists, she's working the media. She has offered to do an ad for Obama's campaign that would call attention to this crazy twist in Hillary's narrative.

From ABCNews.com

"What I don't like about the ad is it's fear-mongering. I think it's a cheap hit to take. I really prefer Obama's message of looking forward to a bright future," Knowles said. "I think that's a much stronger message."

Awwww. Knowles was watching a spoof of the Hillary ad on John Stewart when her brother recognized her sister's pre-tween face. They laughed. Her image was originally used for a railroad company advertisement (they advertise?), but the Clinton camp bought it fair and square from the owners, Getty Images.

Now, the good news for Hillary:

The look of this 3 a.m. appears incredibly outdated -- all those floral sheets and ruffled nighties -- it just calls attention to the feeling that Hillary is old school, and not in the best way. However, it turns out this stock footage was shot almost 10 years ago (which is how the snoozing darling could now be a nearly legal Obama voter). So, whew! That floral crap is all in the past. Because if we go back to ugly kids' bedrooms and Laura Ingalls Wilder nightdresses, the terrorists win. No matter who picks up the phone.

Photo: ABCNews.com

Nanny Cam: Saturday Cartoons and the New Messiah

Madeline Holler — Sat, 08 Mar 2008 11:15:00 GMT

Is Barack Obama the new Messiah? Not if Hillary can help it. This Saturday morning cartoon might settle matters. And, in any case, we find out which candidate God voted for.

Eeny, Meeny, Miny, Moe: Sure S/He's Your Favorite?

Madeline Holler — Fri, 07 Mar 2008 21:32:00 GMT

Some kids you love, others you hate. Others you think you love but actually, you hate. Same goes for candidates.

So how do you know if your love for Obama is true? Do you really think John McCain is as moral and trustworthy as you say he is. What about Hillary? Evil? Are you sure?

If you want to be sure your head is where your heart is -- or is it your heart where your head is? -- take this test. It's not a quiz, there are no issues. It's a psychological test that requires rapid responses to pictures of the candidates and a series of negative and positive words.

Do you know your mind? Speak it! Who do you like best?

Naughty Chair: Name Callers!

Madeline Holler — Fri, 07 Mar 2008 12:15:00 GMT

Political Nanny will pull out the double-wide Naughty Chair this morning to make room for an aide from each of the Democratic campaigns. They're calling names. And that's not nice. Now, who started it?

Clinton communications director Howard Wolfson compared Obama and his campaign staff to Ken Starr, the prosectuor with an agenda back in the Bill Clinton never-ending-investigations years. Specifically, in a memo called "No Answers, Just Attacks":

"Apparently, the Obama campaign’s idea of new politics is to recycle the same old Republican attacks on Senator Clinton that have failed for years. Imitating Ken Starr is not the way to win the Democratic nomination."

But Obama advisor Samantha Power, who Political Nanny admires greatly, called Hillary Clinton a "monster." Ugh! Power is the woman who wrote "A Problem From Hell: American and the Age of Genocide." When she says monster, well, people take note! Now, Power apparently tried to retract the statement just after she said it, but that's not really how it works. Annnnnnnd, she probably knows that.

From The Scotsman:

"We f***** up in Ohio," she admitted. "In Ohio, they are obsessed and Hillary is going to town on it, because she knows Ohio's the only place they can win.

"She is a monster, too -- that is off the record -- she is stooping to anything," Ms Power said, hastily trying to withdraw her remark.

Remember, Samantha, "new kind of politics." And, Wolfson -- by bringing in Starr you're playing the victim/gender/Bill Clinton card. Remember, Hillary supporters prefer to IGNORE all that.

Candidates, sit down with your friends and speak from your hearts. Remind them they can go negative -- but go negative where it counts. Don't be mean.

So Wolfson and Power, that's two minutes in the naughty chair to think of better strategies and subtler ways to undermine the opponent. You guys look so ridiculous with your tongues sticking out!

We All Scream for Baracky Road Ice Cream!

Madeline Holler — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 22:20:00 GMT

Vermont voters' overwhelming endorsement of Barack Obama inspired Slate's Trailhead blogger Chadwick Matlin to connect the Illinois senator with one of the (if not THE) northeastern state's great institutions: Ben & Jerry's ice cream.

What ensues is a naming contest extravaganza that has somehow imitated the campaigns themselves -- accusations of plagiarism, not to mention an outpouring of support and enthusiasm for the project.

Hillary Clinton couldn't possibly have this many ice-cream name possibilities (though some might argue she's cold and cranky enough to churn out some of the high-fat stuff on her own behalf). As for John McCain, he's nowhere close to getting his own ice-cream.

But Political Nanny tries to ensure her candidates will be treated fairly. So how about it? Let's work together on a plan for ice-cream naming that covers every candidate. The rich, delicious treat should be available, on Day 1, and maintain a certain sense of duty and honor. While also inspiring hope. And bringing ice-cream eaters together, no matter what flavor they identify with.

Come on, submit your ideas. You know you can!

PS: Chubby Hubby is already taken. And, anyway, Bill's not so chubby anymore.

Dennis Sticks Around

Madeline Holler — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 18:12:00 GMT

Great news, Dennis Kucinich playmates (and one-time caregivers who loved him so). Voters in Cleveland didn't kick him out of the politics club!

Kucinich won handily in his congressional district's Democratic primary Tuesday night, beating out a challenger who claimed Dennis was neglecting the folks of Cleveland in his bid for the presidency. Neglect! Not our little Dennis!

From The Hill:

The former Democratic presidential hopeful received criticism from Cimperman and his hometown paper, the Cleveland Plain Dealer, for failing to tend to his home district’s concerns. Kucinich, who led Cimperman by about 22 points with a fifth of the vote reported, will be a heavy favorite to win a 7th term due to the Cleveland-area district’s Democratic tilt.

Now, where are we at with impeaching Dick Cheney ... ?

Surprise! We Don't Say Bye-Bye to Hillary

Madeline Holler — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 05:53:00 GMT

Voters in Ohio and Texas didn't want to kick Hillary out of the Democrat's sandbox just yet. As of late Tuesday night, it appears she won primaries in both states. (She won clearly in Rhode Island and lost resoundingly in Vermont.)

Political Nanny, and likely the Clinton campaign, are somewhat surprised with the two big wins. It's true, Political Nanny had Hillary's bag half-packed, ready to see her off in a quick and quiet goodbye. How could she forget -- Hillary does nothing, not even exits, quietly. We're glad to still have her around. (Political Nanny loves all the record-breaking voter turnouts this tightly contested race is motivating.)

We'll all be back for more fun times and strong words (the negative seems to have worked) with the Democrats. And John McCain is officially King of the Mountain for Republicans.

So many elections. So few answers. So terribly exciting.