Has Having Harold Jr. In congress been a benefit to black Memphians?
What improvements have been made in the the 9th congressional District because of Jr.?
When was the last town hall meeting?
Should blacks support him just because he's black?
What has he done for the black community?
Are you disappointed in his service?
Why is it he never involves himself in what goes on in Memphis
Will you vote for him for the U.S.Senate? If yes why?
Friday, December 30, 2005
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
39 comments:
Thad,
Why do you feel that Harold Ford, jr. should do something "special" for the black community? It sounds as if you think he's obligated to a select group of people because of his race. Don't you think that's absurd? Public officials represent all people, and should not be partial to one select group. Most of your posts are derogatory to black people. You make it sound as if black people need some sort of special treatment because they're black and can't get ahead because of the white man. Debased minds like that can't and shouldn't lead or run for public office.
Congressman Ford's weapon against his opponents will be the fact that he's a well-disciplined steadfast contender who's in it for the long haul. Those are some attributes perhaps you'd like to develop before considering a run for any public office.
Thad,
Remember, alpha males (such as Congressman Ford), lead while the other's have to go along with the plan.
Jayla is half right with that one Thaddeus. You do take a local approach to a job that has national exposure. Plus, you play the race card entirely too much.
Well, I just stumbled upon this blog and I must say there is a wealth of info on here. I did not realize the Ford family was so full of drama, but whose family isn't? I personally think that Ford will be our next Senator but not without controversy. It is unfortunate for him that his family's indiscretions will be displayed for all the world to see. It makes since now why his first engagement ended; there have been several post about his personal life being nobody's business, but that is the price one pays for being in the public eye; privacy is gone. My only hope is that Ford is not like his father and will be faithful and honest to his wife and he will also strive to be as honest as he can in a field that is deeply infested with crooked and dishonest people.
I agree with the previous post that have been made. One big drawback for blacks is a sense of entitlement. When Tiger Woods came on the scene the black community wanted to claim him and became outraged that he celebrated his asian ethnicity. As Jayla stated earlier, public officals represent the public; I believe it is up to us to do for ourseleves, thanks to our ancestors we do not have barriers anymore.
Harold Jr, is just like his daddy. He is a USER. That may have several connotations. As a congressman, he is supposed to do things for his constituents. However, take a look at his track record and what do you have?
As for John Ford, take a look at district 29 and you see one of the most impoverished in the state, if not the country.
I believe there is more to come on the Ford family investigation and wouldn't be surprised if Harold Sr gets charged with obstructing justice in this latest episode of the Ford family at work.
Thaddeus is correct in raising this issue. Ford is going to need every black vote come next November if he hopes to have any chance. When white candidates run and seek the black vote, blacks customarily ask 'what have you done for blacks lately' or 'where do you stand on issues concerning blacks'? Why should it be any different for a black candidate? I realize that Ford does not solely represent blacks but he already panders to whites and therefore the 'Question of the Day' is on point.
Ford lost touch with the black community years ago; he did not grow up in Memphis. He comes back every now and then making appearances before black audiences just to keep them pacified. You've heard about him gushing over his "white grandmother". Funny he never mentioned that during his congressional campaigns. However, it makes sense as he doesn't like black women. If he could trade his Mother in for a white woman he would.
Bottom line, Ford inherited his seat. Therefore, it is to be expected that he wouldn't have much respect for it. Ford's practice of voting against the interests of most 9th district residents provides much insight into his character. How many people in Memphis supported the War from day one? If 9th district residents were self-respecting and genuine, Ford would have lost his congressional seat as a result of his Iraq War vote. San Francisco told him where to go when he tried to hold a fundraiser. That is what you call non-hypocrites in action.
As for the last question, my vote will be as follows: 1) Rosalind Kurita (a letter to the editor in Thursday's CA is excellent in terms of why Kurita should be supported) or 2) the GOP nominee.
I concur.
Not sure that most of the people voting will really care. But, they will be interested in his record. Another career politician from the priviledge crowd. Just like Frist. And, what benefit has this brought to Tennessee? None that I can see. But, plenty to the politicians themselves. We deserve better.
I too think that it is a valid question to ask..Thad's post did not say that
Harold Ford had to ONLY serve the needs of the black community..but let's be
real here...it is the strong electoral support that he receives from the
African American community that sent him to congress in the first place.
That strong support he inherited from his Father and uncle..etc who each
hold a sentimental spot in the hearts of many African American voters. At
the time when they came to prominence the political landscape of the city
was different and the Ford family reaped the benefits of a Black electorate
hungry to see leaders that represented their interests and did not kow tow to
Whites as well as the Watergate backlash among progressives. Now the
landscape has changed, but many people in the Black community will vote for
Ford..any Ford, in any election...period.The problem and NOT just in the
case of the Ford question is that the loyalty of the African American voter
has been taken for granted for a long time. I have been very critical of
Congressman Ford's voting record on issues that effect the poor, and the
working class.as well as the War in Iraq. issues that effect mostly Blacks
but also a great many whites and Hispanics as well.
If Joe Liberman voted
against Israeli interest, people would ask if he has lost touch with the
jewish community..why..because it is his core base of support. If George W.
Bush began to speak out against "intelligent Design"..people would question
if he had lost touch with his base too.
Now many would argue that Ford had to vote certain ways to appeal to a
larger base of supporters for a statewide race. Thus his base should help
him get to the Senate, because once there, he WILL vote the right way.
I respectfully ask that Ford supporters should stop saying those things
publicly.
One, It makes his campaign sound dishonest.
Two, many feel that if he is not voting the right way now, then how can
progressives trust him to vote the right way in the Senate.
I hear it alot...and it does not play well to those unconvinced to cast
their votes in his favor.
I think Congressman Ford still has a chance to reach out to Progressives
and disillusioned urban blacks voters...I am not sure if his Campaign will.
The real question should be... Will Ford be able to bridge the disconnect
with the base in order to win the nomination and the Senate. It will take something innovative, and clever, but hey anything is possible.
Harold Jr will not enter the race. He will drop and run for his old seat. Book it.
Harold Jr. is not an alpha.
Is Harold Jr even a male?
Ouch!...where is Chris Jackson when you need him?
Ok, I understand your dislike for Sr., but what has caused the dislike for Jr. I am not a resident of Memphis, but I was born and raised here in TN. Someone stated on another post that He grew up in Washington so how do you know that he is a dishonest, womanizing, hypocritical individual like his relatives? Yes, I am playing devil's advocate here simply b/c everyone whether they admit to it or not loves to get the scoop (including myself) BUT where is your proof that Jr. will not make a good Senator? I also think it's a little harsh to say he would trade his mother in, and if Sr. treated her so badly why did she stay married to him for so long? Personally I am more attracted to White men, but it is not b/c my father was a bad example; I grew up in a predominately white environment and it has laways been difficult for me to make black friends b/c race has never benn an issue for me.
I do agree that everyone has made some very valid posts whether I agree with them or not. It's a good thing to be able to have a hotbutton discussions about issues b/c it causes you to think.
Ford Jr.'s priority at this time is the Senate.
Please note Ford Jr.'s upbringing in relation to his father's. Ford Sr. grew up in modest means compared to Jr. who spent most of his childhood and young adulthood as the son of a Congressman and attended some of the best schools in the country (prep,college,and professional school).
This means that he does may relate to some in his District. Many who happen to be working poor and with little education. This is because of his background and the way he was raised. It's unfortunate but reality is that the first time around he was elected on name and name alone, not on his personal ablitiy to relate to the community. Legacy ruled. The machine was in place.
The machine is not what it once was. This can be a challenge for Jr. who does not have legacy playing in his favor in the race and only has his record and personal reputation to rely on.
OK, point well taken; I understand where you are coming from now. To be really honest, I have lived in TN all of my life and this is the first time I have heard anything about the Ford family. Every once in a while the news would show an occasional outburst my John Ford when the House was in session, but that is it. HOwever, it appears he is gaining popularity in the TN area. Despite the scrutiny, I think he is going to win; I have yet to hear anything from the other candidates. Did he start to early with his campaign? I am asking simply b/c I don't know alot about politics and I have found these political blogs to be very informative.
artsytn:
I have some info for you. Learn how to spell you dumn ass fucker.
oops! Sometimes my fingers move faster than my brain; I don't always catch everything. By the way, take your own advice.
WTF.... What did Artsytn do to piss you off? This is a forum for discussion and debate. Artsytn was just asking questions and doing it in a polite way.
We all have political view that may be at odds at times...but there is no need for all these childish attacks.
Get a life.
Thanks Brad... I have no idea what I have done to tick you guys off; I apologize if I have offended anyone, but I was just asking questions. Need I remind you, I am the one who is getting cussed out for misspelled words!
Thad, I can assure you that you don't know me or my mother, she died seven years ago from a brain aneurysm that was at the base of her skull and her name is not Betty. Don't worry about banning me from your blog, this is my last post; I will never post here again.
That ass hole is not the real Thaddeus Matthews. He is a little bitch who use Thaddeus name to piss people off.
You are a very sick and evil person. You need help.
Look.
I am not going to waste my time getting angry at some moron who has so little going on in his on life that he has to attack people on a Blog...a local one at that.
If you want to be something other than a pathetic joke, post your garbage without hiding behind false names.
Otherwise you are just another two bit coward with a big mouth and nothing to back it up.
Anybody can be a tough guy online, anybody can post nasty comments anonymously.
It does not make you cool, or tough, it just makes you a jackass.
You want to bait me by making comments about my mother..lol what grade are you in?...How about you chime in on the topic in question. How about you be a man and stand behind your comments.
If you do not like it..do something about it.
What Plan is that?....being a cowardly little boy. A sad person who is so weak in real life that you have to pick fights with people on the internet?..using a false name no less.
I proved my point coward.
The fact is the only reason I can see for doing this is to disrupt the discussion about Ford.
Ignore him everyone...this piece of trash is not worth it.
Hide who you are..run and hide.
Sad.
And you talk about hiding brad is not your name!
Brad:
Do you live around Carnes St.
LMAO!....no sorry, I do not live on Carnes st. and I do not post under any other name except my own.
I have read some crazy stuff on here, but this is a new one...lol.
Artsytn,I'm glad to have you post. There are those who try to keep us off focus with their foolishiness.Whenever I post my pic shows up besides my name.and no one is able to do that but me. There is no personal dislike for harold Jr. but it is my feeling that he can not relate to us (blacks) because he's not one of us. Jr.seat in congress was not something he worked for but was passed on to him by his father. Jr.has yet to call a town hall meeting to get the views of the people he 's suppose to represent. he's never involve in local issues, he wants to be a political star Jr. is self serving and not a public servant. FROM THIS POINT ON ALL VULGAR COMMENTS WHETHER ABOUT ME OR ANYONE ELSE WILL BE DELETED
Thaddues,
I just wanted to "stop in" for a moment. I came here from CAMP4. I, like Stacey, about fell out of my chair at your humor. Howard Baker said that humor in politics is good. I agree with him. It seems you are a voice in the wilderness.
There is only one thing worth standing for, and that is the truth.
Campaign Staff
Mark Albertini for Governor
www.markalbertini.com
He has lost touch with reality. Thad you may not remember me. I know you from the days at United MB Church. Bro Phillips middle son. I have been away from Memphis for 19 years now in the military in Virginia. I am really ashamed of the state of our city now. I will be returning to Memphis as a resident in November mad as hell and hungry to make a change. What you stand for makes sense. The question I pose to black Memphis is, What has the democratic party done to make your life better? Think about it.... It is not the governments responsibility to take care of us. The govenment officials we elect manage the areas we assign to them. Such as city funds, schools, laws, etc. Once we make the elected people responsible for the jobs we elected them for, stop relying on them as our savior, and do for ourselves life will be wonderful. Vote for the right person not just the popular party.
He has lost touch with reality. Thad you may not remember me. I know you from the days at United MB Church. Bro Phillips middle son. I have been away from Memphis for 19 years now in the military in Virginia. I am really ashamed of the state of our city now. I will be returning to Memphis as a resident in November mad as hell and hungry to make a change. What you stand for makes sense. The question I pose to black Memphis is, What has the democratic party done to make your life better? Think about it.... It is not the governments responsibility to take care of us. The govenment officials we elect manage the areas we assign to them. Such as city funds, schools, laws, etc. Once we make the elected people responsible for the jobs we elected them for, stop relying on them as our savior, and do for ourselves life will be wonderful. Vote for the right person not just the popular party.
"Politics without economics is a symbol without substance"
One must not only vote for his/her candidate, he/she must be a financier of his/her campaign. Otherwise, voting only is like shooting a gun with blanks.
Why do we has black people think somebody or everybody owe us something. Yes Harold Ford JR can be our next senate if we judge him by his action not the actions of his family members. Remeber if we were jodged by our family members actions. would we hold the position in life we now hold?
Post a Comment