Al Gore still to be considered

[DeadEyeDyck]

Just heard on Hannity Radio (it is the only station I can get from my country office). He has John Zogby and Scott Rasmussen and are discussing what strategies it would take for the Dems to win the GE.

John Zogby says there is talk about handing the Presidential nomination to Al Gore, the VP to Obama Barack and offer Hillary Clinton the majority leadership.

The belief is that this would please more democrate voters then any other combination.

Both pollsters say that this is a serious discussion taking place in inner circles.

No links available.

[nonconformist]

1. As much as I love Gore, I don't see that happening at all. nt

[Name removed]

39. Deleted message

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

[Andrea]

78. Seriously?

What do you mean by that?

[proud2BlibKansan]

94. His source is Hannity

:rofl:

[Andrea]

96. No, his source is Zogby, appearing on Hannity. n/t

[Hieronymus]

110. Yes, and I respect Mr. Zogby. It would be a winning ticket.

[WillYourVoteBCounted]

140. Aint gonna happen. Gore won't do it and it would be wrong to do it this way

anyhow.

[musicblind]

148. personally, I think Gore WOULD do it if he saw it as the only way to

heal the party. Of course I'd rather Clinton or Edwards as Gore's VP in that situation, but over all this strategy Gore/Obama and Clinton as Majority Leader might be the best way out of this very tight spot.

[democrattotheend]

2. I wouldn't mind a Gore/Obama ticket

Although I do kind of have a problem with someone who has not campaigned or gotten any votes from primary voters coming in and getting the nomination. That seems even more undemocratic than Clinton getting it. That being said, a lot of people did want him to run this year, and it might be the only acceptable solution.

[LSparkle]

5. Al Gore was the last fairly elected president, so I could go for that

Great ticket!

[AX10]

19. I will settle for VP Obama if it means President Gore.

[calimary]

152. I could, too. Man, would THAT be a dream ticket!

'Cause all this time, I must admit - as much as I DO like Obama and will vote for him eagerly if he's the nominee, my heart still belongs to Al Gore.

And it would be a nice consolation prize to throw at Hillary - giving her another glass ceiling to break. It's not THE glass ceiling, mind you, but it is A glass ceiling, and one of the few remaining in politics. Senate Majority Leader? I wouldn't turn my nose up at that one.

[DeadEyeDyck]

10. I think that he is still pure is the ticket.

this has been a really ugly primary season. Al is above the fray. I guess that is the thinking. All I heard was a sound-byte but I bet this story will have legs before the end of the day.

[snappyturtle]

74. LOOK at this!

http://www.algore.org/blog/earthmother/waiting_0#comments

Watching and waiting . . .
Posted March 18th, 2008 by earthmother
In November of 2007, AlGore.org suspended its active campaign to get Al Gore to be a candidate iin the 2008 race for the White House. At that time, we informed all of our organizers that we were going into a dormant mode. Publicly, we remain dormant, but we are carefully watching the race between Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton. As of this writing, Obama is ahead in delegates, but both candidates continue to split the available delegates in such a way that neither may have enough to be nominated on the first ballot at the convention in August. The next (and last) major state as far as delegates go is Pennsylvania. Depending on what happens there in April, we may decide that it's time to swing into action again.

snip................

We're not the only ones entertaining this notion. There continue to be many articles written about Gore as the unity or compromise candidate. Here are a few of the more recent ones:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/paul-abrams/al-de-gore_b_90064.html
http://www.nypost.com/seven/03062008/news/columnists/only_gore_can_stop_...
http://www.newsweek.com/id/119851
http://www.southernledger.com/blogs/stevegill/?m=200803
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/marvin-kitman/al-gore-for-president_b_9033...

more...........

Edit:
The New York Post article is not free...I didn't read it. The Newsweek article is by Eleanor Cliff...it hints that a Clinton advisor says the Gore option could happen at the convention!
Southern Ledger...scroll down to second article on page. Last Huffington link...pg. not found!

[lildreamer316]

82. Ahem.

I do believe I have most, if not all of these sourced over at our Al Gore '08 forum. Please stop by!!

[Andrea]

84. Yes, you do a great job

Lildreamer keeps us all up to date on Gore news. Anyone interested should stop over and check out the goings on.

[snappyturtle]

90. Sorry....didn't know that...yes, I will drop in!! Thanks....look at it this

way....now even more people know!? :blush:

[Andrea]

98. Right, and that's great! n/t

[lildreamer316]

112. OH don't apologize!! I just want to make sure you

knew about us,because sometimes it's easier to re-find the articles there if you're in a hurry.
The more the merrier!!

[Andrea]

79. I think you are right.

Al is above the fray. Things have degenerated everywhere. He hasn't been involved. A lot of us are really worried by all this in-fighting, and more will be as it goes on.

[polichick]

11. Actually, he already won the presidency. :)

[Andrea]

81. Yes, he won once and he can win again.

The most recent polling I saw showed both Obama and Clinton trailing McCain. THAT is a frightening thought.

[oviedodem]

3. If that is true then that means they are really displeased with Hillary

[leftynyc]

7. I don't think so

I find it rather odd that Al Gore, John Edwards and some other heavy hitter in the dem party have declined to endorse in this race. Can someone come up with a plausible reason other than they don't think either candidate is very good.

[Window]

49. This primary has been playing out so ugly, I believe the party leaders have

asked that the SD's hold off any more endorsements until they have some idea of where this is all heading. Just my opinion.

[leftynyc]

52. I was under the impression that

the superdelegates were the party leaders.

[roguevalley]

64. they are also elected officials generally and probably quaking in

their boots over this.

[Window]

80. Not all SD's are party leaders. I'm thinking more of Pelosi, Reid, et al.

I have a friend who is a SD, not in any leadership capacity.

[Andrea]

83. Makes sense to me n/t

[leftynyc]

4. I can live with that

Either Senate majority leader or supreme court seat for Hillary.

[Alhena]

12. Same here- I fear 2008 isn't the year for Obama and if he loses

he almost certainly won't get another chance. He's too talented to allow that to happen.

[leftynyc]

45. Nah - tricky Dick came back

and he didn't have any of the brains or the charm (or the good looks) that Sen Obama has.

I'm going to be very honest here - I like Sen Obama and will vote for him enthusiastically in November but I will admit to being uncomfortable with his association with Rev Wright. Not because of the out of context remarks that are being played in a loop on TV for a week now - it's because of Rev Wright's embrace of Farrakhan who I despise. I don't think Sen Obama has a racist bone in his body but his association with someone who I believe has real anger issues and who embraces a hate monger like Farrakhan makes me uneasy. That said, I'd eat glass before I'd vote for McCain or any other republican for president.

[gabeana]

6. This couldn't happen until the convention right

[Alhena]

14. Yes- specifically the second vote at the convention.

[DeadEyeDyck]

23. Here is how it was explained...

and it sounds risky. Obama throws all his delegates to Gore and Gore, in turn offers him the VP. Hillary is offered the majority leader. I think they are looking for a winning ticket. No one said this was the rubblings of the DNC so I don't know whom they are referring too.

This radio station is WABC out of New York.

[Window]

54. Hillary desperately wants to be POTUS.

I just can't see her settling for anything less. Hell, just before Mississippi she was offering the VP slot to Senator Obama, even though he was leading. Nah. Can't see it.

Girlfriend is not going to go quitely into the good night. (Or whatever the hell that expression is. LOL!)


Edited to say, it sounds like a great idea though.

[Andrea]

88. Strictly speaking, she doesn't need to agree

for this to happen. Also, I could see her settling under certain circumstances, with the right pressure from the right people and the right inducement. Specifically, I think offering her the first available Supreme Court seat is something she would find hard to resist. I also think that Supreme Court Justice is a better fit with her skills.

[Window]

89. I agree. I've always said the SC would be perfect for her.

[Andrea]

86. Right, that's one way it could happen.

It could also be Clinton plus the super delegates going for Gore. The thing is, neither Obama nor Clinton will have enough delegates without the super delegates. It could also happen with both Obama and Clinton both throwing their delegates to Gore. I'd prefer that, for more unity. There are many kinds of deals that could be made. My favorite at this point is Obama for VP and Clinton for Supreme Court Justice. I think that positions the party and the nation to benefit from both of their extreme talents for at least a generation to come. I'd be happy with any deal they want to make, though. And don't forget, John Edwards still has delegates.

[LakeSamish706]

8. And I guess it begs the question; Why would we want to see an Al Gore as the nominee...

at this stage of the game, since he has had no desire to get bloody in the ring as the two candidates are doing now? At this point, I don't see that being very fair to Obama for sure.

Edited to say:

I guess however that Gore would be the candidate that would kick the crap outta McCain and thus save our country.... So, yep I would be ok with it as well for that reason.

[LSparkle]

18. Gore is practically teflon at this point ... they could try to bloody him

but it'd be seen as a cheap shot. They could continue to run the race Obama has
tried to run, and let the wingers take the low road ...

I was thinking that the only way Gore would get involved is if the frontrunners
had beaten each other to a bloody pulp. I didn't see that happening (nor did I
want it to) but at this point, I wonder if that isn't what we're facing.

RE-ELECT PRESIDENT GORE!

[LakeSamish706]

21. Yep, I edited my post (after some thought) and do agree with the logic. n/t

[DeadEyeDyck]

29. I mean, damn, the guy's got the Noble Peace Prize N/T

[Road Scholar]

36. That has to be a plus in world respect and diplomacy nt

[LakeSamish706]

37. Yep, he would absolutely kick the crap out of McCain... (even with possible

attempts to steal the election again).

And now you guys are probably getting me excited on a new and different level that won't come to pass.. grrr...

[proud2BlibKansan]

41. So does Henry Kissinger

[brentspeak]

71. That would probably work against him among many American voters

You mean 'Nobel'.

[mmonk]

9. On Hannity?

[DeadEyeDyck]

13. I work in a metal building in an industrial park

I can only get one station.

[mmonk]

15. That's fine. I wasn't dissing you.

I guess we have to wait to see if it hits any MSM outlet.

[InAbLuEsTaTe]

16. Wouldn't be thrilled to see Obama denied the nomination, but I could live w/ it (so long as he's VP)

[snappyturtle]

40. I, too, wouldn't be happy to see Obama denied but if this combo

could hold the party together,it would be fantastic. Gore has global recognition and is loved. Might work out great for the Dems too....Gore/Obama in 2008 and Obama/? in 2012 figuring Gore might only want one term. If Gore went for two terms and Obama for two after that...wow! 16 years of Democrats in the executive and well, the legislative would surely follow along. I'm just thinking and postulating out loud..but maybe it could work. What's going on is very damaging and I don't want to lose Obama.

[brentspeak]

70. If Obama has fallen so much that he couldn't be elected President

then he wouldn't be a good VP candidate.

[knight_of_the_star]

17. If this is true

This likely would only happen if we reach the convention and there still is no clear winner. If that were to happen then that could probably save the party and the country.

[Andrea]

91. Exactly what I'm concerned about now.

We have to save the party. If we don't save the party, we can't save the country.

[Texas Hill Country]

20. i would be friggin shocked if Gore even wanted the job tbh

[Andrea]

92. I don't think he does want it, BUT

I believe he would accept it if drafted, because his sense of duty would win out.

[musicblind]

149. I do not think that Al Gore wants the job, but think that he would take the job if it were the only

way to salvage the country.

Of course I'd love Hillary to be president. Would love her to at least be VP. But Gore would be an amazing candidate, and better than Obama at this point because he has not been through the ringer in the way Obama and Clinton have.

[Andrea]

154. that's what I think

The way things are going, it probably will be the only way to salvage the country.

[musicblind]

155. And if it does then it will be a good solution.

I said in another post ... we really missed the boat in 2000. I mean we REALLY missed the boat. We could have been sailing on a Royal Caribbean Freedom of the Seas Fun-Ship headed towards an island of Nobel Peace Prizes, with Academy Awards fun slides, and a world-wide-recognition-and-respect stage show. Instead we choose to hitch a ride on the Titanic ... Driven by captian McBushwacked


Yeah ... we REALLY missed the boat in 2000.





I just hope we don't freeze beneath an iceberg of lies, torture, and a hundred years of war in Iraq. Because if we don't find a live perserver this November our hearts will NOT go on.









Sorry, the metaphor gets a little played out... but still... we SOOOOO missed that boat :(

[Andrea]

161. An apt metaphor

and really well put.

[Political Heretic]

22. Um...... I would be behind that.

[calico1]

24. Well I heard on the all news CBS radio staion

on the way to work earlier this week that Gore has lost a lot of weight. Don't know if that is of any significance.

:shrug:

[DeadEyeDyck]

27. Hmmmmmmmmm N/T

[Turn CO Blue]

121. These images are from five days ago...he does look great.

His face IS leaner...but I always thought that it's his brain that makes him so attractive.

[SharonRB]

25. I'll believe it when I see it

My dream ticket would be Gore/Obama, but I'm not holding my breath for this one to come true. I'd like to know just who is really talking about this.

[proud2BlibKansan]

43. It was Hannity

:rofl:

[musicblind]

150. No it wasn't

it was Zogby ON Hannity. If you were citing the source in a paper, you would have to quote it as being said by Zogby, not Hannity, because Zogby is the one who said it.

[Fresh_Start]

26. I could get behind that ticket

I believe that Gore would win hands down

[DJ13]

28. Dont see it

Theres already polls showing that many Democrats wont support the nominee if Hillary was to win by having the super delegates overruling the pledged delegate winner in the convention (20% of Dems said they wouldnt vote for her).

I cant see a person (even if its Gore) stepping in and essentially stealing the nomination without even running as being a candidate who could hold the party together.

Gores best chance to put our party back together would be to throw his support behind the delegate leader as soon as possible, and to forget his ambitions.

[Andrea]

95. It wouldn't happen like that

This would be a consensus nomination with support from at least one of Clinton or Obama, and more likely both. He wouldn't be stealing anything, he would be agreeing to a mass request. If it comes to this, it will be because Obama and/or Clinton see that this is better for the party than their own candidacy.

[MattBaggins]

118. Consensus?

What consensus are you talking about? Al Gore was not any ballots that I know of. How will the democratic voters of this country reached a consensus if none of us got to vote for him? Having a bunch of people in Denver just pick a name out of the air would be worse than what we have now.

Come on, Al Gore isn't going to come swooshing in with a cape and save us all. He is way too busy fighting ManBearPig.

[Andrea]

122. A consensus of those we voted for, including

Obama and/or Clinton. That's the rules of the party.

[musicblind]

151. It wouldn't be like that. This wouldn't be Gore's ambitions

He didn't even want the job. He would be doing it in response to a mass request because it is what everyone else wants him to do. He'd basically be giving up 4 or more years of his life as a favor to us Dems who have made such a mess at this point.

[VolcanoJen]

30. If the "inner circles" are going to nominate a candidate who did not run...

... what was the point in voting? Why did I drive people to polls? Why did I spend weeks registering people to vote? Why even go through such an exercise if "insiders" come along afterward and do whatever the hell they please, or deem "best" for us?

Hey, I love Al, but that idea is absolutely freaking ridiculous.

[joshcryer]

34. Party unity, and actually *winning* the white house.

[VolcanoJen]

53. Having the nominee "chosen" for me isn't going to make me feel very "unified"

This idea is, seriously, one of the dumbest things I've ever heard about it elected politics.

It's MARCH. What are we all freaking out about? We'll be fine, we'll have a nominee by June, and we're going to beat McSame.

When did everyone get so damned skittish about this thing?

[brentspeak]

63. Well, if Michigan and Florida aren't going to count

it's not as if democracy would be thwarted by choosing a different candidate at the convention anyway.

[Demobrat]

31. What on earth?

How can they hand the nomination to somebody who isn't running? I'd be delighted to death if this were to happen,but that's me. How would it not make a complete mockery of the process?

[Andrea]

97. It's within the rules of the convention

Neither Obama nor Clinton is going to have enough delegates to win without the super delegates. If the super delegates sit out the first ballot, then deals can be made. Either Clinton or Obama or both can direct their delegates to vote for Gore. They would do this in response to a deal that they feel would get the best outcome for the party and the country. They can bargain about positions for themselves and planks in the party platform.

[IdClaire]

32. sounds too far fetched to me..

I don't know how many people would go for that, nothing against Gore. Does anyone think Obama or Clinton will cede the way for him if they won't for each other?

[Andrea]

99. Actually, I think they'd be more likely to endorse him than

to cede the way for each other. There is so much animosity between the two, and it's so fresh.

[Mabus]

33. I would love that

and I've never made a secret about it. I would be really surprised if it happened.

[Bullet1987]

35. Gore/Obama was my original dream ticket way back when

I wouldn't think it fair, but it goes to show you how destructive this primary season has become when we need to bring in someone totally new at the last minute to not go into the General all bloodied up.

[snappyturtle]

46. I agree that the damage being done is so very damaging to the party.

I don't know enough about the rules to know if this sort of arrangement can happen. Do you? I suppose if the party put the pressure on Hillary & Obama to 'turn over' their delegates, it could happen. Anyone out there who knows the rules?

[Andrea]

100. Yep. It can most definitely happen.

It hasn't happened since, I believe, 1952, but it is still within the rules of the party.

[Cali_Democrat]

38. Hogwash

http://www.picturethisgallery.com/Artists/Bullas,%20Will/Porcelains/Hogwash.jpg

[nsd]

42. Not a chance.

I admire Al Gore a great deal. If he had run, I would have supported him. If he had run, I think he would be our nominee right now. But he didn't run and that's not an option any longer. Too much has happened.

In the last 40 years, neither major party has given its presidential nomination to a candidate who didn't win it by running in the primaries and caucuses. To do so now would be an absolute disaster. That person, even if he were as well respected in the party as Gore, would lack legitimacy and would face scorn from loyalists of the candidates who did run.

Either Obama or Clinton is going to be the nominee. Barring some far-fetched event (e.g. they both die in a plane crash) no one else is even conceivable.

[RememberWellstone]

44. Wow! Awesome!

Gore would tear Mclame apart!!! Run Al, run!!

[The Traveler]

47. Great plan

It will never happen, but it would be a great plan.

[andym]

48. Perhaps there would even be a deal to resign before the end of his first term.

If you want to make a real splash and stir the waters :)

[RamboLiberal]

50. I'd back this ticket - I've been thinking about Gore coming in

Since the damn Wright video is going to haunt Obama to the election and if the SD's handed it to Clinton this would split the party besides her high negatives. Seems like a fair solution to me.

[Andrea]

107. I agree with you

I think the scenario you have laid out here could very well happen.

[KaryninMiami]

51. Fine with me- more then fine in fact but anything on Hannity Radio

is not exactly something I would take all that seriously. Anywhere else this is being discussed?

[Andrea]

103. See snappyturtles post above for many links

Also, check in over at the Al Gore '08 forum here at DU. Yes, it's being talked about a lot. and, even though it was on Hannity, it was John Zogby that said it.

[CTyankee]

55. Unbelievable. After all of these primaries, do you think Dems would stand for this?

As popular as he is, Al Gore won no primaries this time. The people voted on their picks. To just throw all of them overboard and "appoint" Al Gore is a ridiculous notion. Besides which, it would look so awful that we'd lose really badly in the GE.

Hannity is messin' with our heads here...

[brentspeak]

67. Why would people not vote for Al Gore just because he's chosen at the convention?

And without Michigan and Florida's votes counting, the People's votes aren't exactly being counted anyway.

[CTyankee]

119. Well, I think that Dem voters would feel like their votes were whisked away

from underneath their feet and by whom, exactly? I am not so cavalier about dismissing the votes cast by all those thousands and thousands of Dem voters in all of the primaries so far. It would be an astounding act of arrogance on the part of the Democratic Party, IMO. The people spoke, in good conscious and good faith. Doesn't that count?

[Andrea]

125. Sure, it counts, to the extent that it's true,

But look at what has happened. Look at all the Republicans that voted in our open primaries at the behest of Rush Limbaugh in order to distort the outcome. Look at all the Democrats who didn't get to vote for their candidate because he was knocked out so early on. Look at all the people who can't participate in caucuses because they have to work or have other responsibilities or have health issues that prevent them getting to the caucus. Look at FL and MI. This primary process stinks and led to this outcome: Two fairly evenly matched frontrunners, neither of whom can win the nomination without super delegates and neither of whom can beat McCain.

If those frontrunners put the interests of the party and the nation first, they may very well decide that going with a fair deal is the best solution.

[kster]

135. Actually they would

be getting the man who they voted for in 2000.

If this was to play out, I'd say the people who already voted would not have a problem supporting the idea.

Al Gore was attacked on two fronts, electronic vote counting and the supreme court who had to step in to deliver the election to * after the electronic vote/counting machines failed to do the job.

If this happens I want to know where these little pr*cks plan to show up.

[IDemo]

56. Sorry, no

The idea of Al being carried to the podium on the heads of supporters of both candidates who have invested sweat, tears, and maybe a bit of blood to get this far is insulting. I thought this place let go of the Al Gore fantasia months ago, guess not.

[CTyankee]

120. No kidding! How crazy is this?

This would be the ultimate insult to rank and file Dem voters who trudged to the polls to vote their choice of candidate. And who appointed anyone to elevate Al Gore.

And why on earth would Al even consent to doing this? I love Al but this is just nuts...

[Orsino]

160. Were al Gore to die before the convention, some would still write in his name. n/t

[snappyturtle]

57. OK..you're officially driving me nuts...happy nuts! Back when a lot

of us were excited to imagine Al Gore as a candidate, we figured he'd enter the race late to avoid a lot of the campaigning associated with the public's learning curve of a lesser known candidate. However,I'm wondering now that he didn't enter to give Hillary "her" chance....inner circle Democratic party politics...whatever. But, NOW, that this race has been bludgeoned by its own candidates Gore could enter. I think the country would unite like we can't even imagine! (Can you tell that I'm excited by the thought of it?)

[K Gardner]

58. I could get behind Gore/Obama. Gore WAS the last truly ELECTED President. It would

certainly get the Clintons out of the picture for the next 16 years. Eight years of Gore = Heaven. Another 8 years of Obama = hell, how could we lose with that?

[Road Scholar]

59. ROTFLAFAO Wanna know something funny...

You can spot some of the Clinton supporters in this by their reaction to it.

[rodbailey]

60. Folks that are getting excited about this

should swing on over to the Gore thread here at DU. We are getting people in various states to start compiling contact information for super delegates in their states, and lists of interested folks in their states to write letters/contact, etc. if it looks like the super delegates are going to be critical in this kind of "negotiation." Also, any interested Goreniacs should shuffle on over to the two, recently re-energized draft Gore web sites (www.algore.org and www.draftgore.com) and keep track of what's going on in this effort through those portals.

[RestoreGore]

131. I think this is totally disrespectful to the man who has expressed his wishes to end this

I'll make sure to contact his office about this however, to find out where they stand.

[quantass]

61. Obama is too much a Leader to want to be Gore's bitch ... and Hillary is just a mess.

but i see the logic in your assumption but i just doubt Obama and Hillary would like to take lesser positions when there is still a chance they could go all the way. And Gore certainly doesnt want to be in the bitch position again after being one for 8 years.

[OPERATIONMINDCRIME]

62. As Unlikely As That Is, It Would Have My 100% Backing.

It's actually a brilliant plan, when ya think about it.

But the reality is that it's a longshot of longshots.

[progressoid]

65. What the F...? Dumbest post today.

A. Don't care what Hannity's pal's insider's think.

2. There is a small issue of delegates and the convention.

III. Al's not running!!

D. I need a drink.

[Andrea]

109. I can't dispute your point D.

But as to the others:

A. John Zogby is not Hannity's pal.

2. This would occur within the rules of the convention with the participation of the delegates.

III. He's not running. This is about a DRAFT.

[progressoid]

113. Riiiight.

So, tens of thousands of people that spent their hard earned money and time trying to get Obama or Clinton the nom are suddenly going to give up and sign on to the draft Gore bandwagon. And hundreds of delegates that have pledged their support to their candidate are going to chuck it out the window for a man that has shown absolutely no interest in the presidency. And the Clinton and Obama camps are going to just step aside and let it happen. And this is going to happen within a party that still can't figure out what to do about the FL/MI debacle.

Riiiight.

Here's what this really is: Sean Hannity poking the bee-hive to rile up all the worker bees.

[Andrea]

116. No real basis for discussion here

Obviously, we disagree. I'm not sure you understand the process. If people worked hard for those candidates and those candidates decided another course was better for the good of the party, yeah those people would probably agree. John Zogby is not a mouthpiece for Sean Hannity. You've got that way wrong.

But, by all means, have another drink!

[progressoid]

143. Hey, after a couple glasses of shiraz with dinner

and a good night sleep, I return to this thread and it is still stupid.

[Andrea]

145. Well,

something is stupid. At least you are rested.

[crankychatter]

66. Somebody is Smokin' Crack

Get off

After spending hundreds of millions of dollars, Al Gore gets to step up and lose again?

[msallied]

68. From the beginning of this whole mess, I saw this as a possibility

There is nothing unconstitutional about this scenario. It would just be undemocratic. But this primary is pretty much going to be that way anyway.

The thing that worries me, though, is the fact that if Gore is "installed" regardless of his popularity among core Dems, it's going to infuriate the independents and swing voters who voted for Obama when they might otherwise have voted more conservatively. And we can pretty much kiss the GE goodbye at this people.

The people will settle for no less than the person who got the most delegates and popular votes. I would definitely vote for Gore over Hillary any day, but it would destroy the party if this is how he was nominated.

[girl_interrupted]

72. Oh please let this be true about Gore!

I have heard the same rumor, keeping my fingers crossed! I don't think it would destroy the party at all..if anything, it's being destroyed right now by Hillary & Obama and their supporters. If anything Gore would be a uniter. And let's face it, he won the 2000 election, it's way past time he took his rightful place.

[JSK]

69. Why don't you stream AAR?

www.airamericaradio.com

[DeadEyeDyck]

114. Sonic Wall N/T

[mopinko]

73. wow, i can't believe the people in this thread who would accept that.

just amazing. and sickening.

[cottonseed]

75. The Rapture - Hannity saves DU : GDP for a day!

It's nice to see DU : GDP come together for a much needed Kumbaya moment today. Never thought I'd be saying this, but "Thank you Hannity".

For the record: if this thing keeps on its ugly path, I'd definitely back this plan.

[Ysabel]

76. this is bullshit...

obama is the front runner and to suggest anything else is fucking insulting...

- typo...

[tinrobot]

77. I don't think Gore would accept.

The next president will spend 4-8 years cleaning up a huge pile of crap. Why would Gore volunteer for that?

[DerekJ]

85. How about an Obama/Al Gore ticket?

[mattclearing]

87. Of course, because Hannity radio is so on the pulse of the Democratic leadership.

GTFO.

[usrbs]

93. Gore / Obama

I'm a Hillary fan, but I see no other way out of this mess.

[HuffleClaw]

101. sounds like wishful thinking to me

but not a bad idea at all. hillary would have kittens though. i'm not sure she'd be so easily bought off.

[Lochloosa]

102. "democrate voters"

Go back to the basement.

[SnowGoose]

104. If he had wanted it, he'd already be the nominee.

The primaries would have been more of a victory lap than a contest.

I didn't take my "Re-elect Gore in 08" button off my book bag (practically part of my body by now) until last week (I'm a stubborn SOB). So understand, there is nobody here who would be happier than me to see this happen, but at this time, even thinking about it is a distraction.

Make your peace with it and keep your eye on the prize.

[mzmolly]

105. Color me enthused!

I'd LOVE that combination. ;)

[Citizen Kang]

106. That is a true Unity ticket

And my dream ticket as well.

I hope after all this mess, something good like this can prevail.

[high density]

108. Gore doesn't seem to want the job now

And that little NAFTA dustup in Ohio would be nothing compared to the archives with VP Gore vs. Perot.

[Andrea]

111. Great post, DeadEyeDyck

I congratulate you, not just for the great content, but for doing what few others have been able to do: Start a civil discussion in GD-Primaries.

For those interested in an Al Gore nomination, please come by the Al Gore '08 forum here at DU. Click "Lobby" at the top of any page. Scroll down to the DU Groups section. It's the first listing in the left column under "Democrats".

Thanks everybody for the good discussion.

[DeadEyeDyck]

117. Thanks

I am not the source but only the messanger. I wish I had cable TV and I would probably watch H&C tonight. I also wish someone else would chime in and say, "yeah I heard it too." I feel a little vulnerable being the only one.

Kind of like being the only one to see a shooting star. I must admit as a newcomer I am a little sensitive to being challenged or attacked about something I post. Everytime I open the browser, I squint my eyes and open them slowly to see if I am being torched in flames. I guess I'll earn some callouses, soon enough.

[KoKo]

115. Sounds good to this PROGRESSIVE DEMOCRAT! Bring it on!!!!

:applause:

[Pastiche423]

123. I've been...

wishing and hoping and thinking and praying, planning and dreaming that Al Gore will take his rightful place in the Oval Office.

That he would be taking Obama along w/him is a dream that could happen!

P. S. I LOVE your user name.

[JuniperLea]

124. We need someone to unite us!

Neither of the two we have now can do that.

[Andrea]

126. Great drawing

in your sig line. that does seem to be about the way it is now!

[JuniperLea]

127. Yep...

I lifted that from the Intertubes the other day... looked like DU to me!

:silly:

[Samantha]

128. If there's any truth to this, the best case scenario would be

for Al Gore to offer Barack Obama a co-presidency, in the same framework as that offered by Bill Clinton to Al Gore (to convince him to join the ticket). Bill Clinton gave Al Gore complete control over 8 spheres of interest. Likewise, there could be specific spheres of interest over which Barack Obama would reign.

One obvious advantage Barack would have in this arrangement that Al did not have is that Tipper would not be cutting Barack off at the pass for political advantage!

Since there obviously is no room in the Constitution for a co-presidency, there could not be a formal agreement, only an informal agreement such as the one Bill Clinton and Al Gore had. However, following the swearing in, Gore could publicly announce the "delegation" of issues he names, reached in agreement with Barack, to the Office of the Vice President.

This would only be fair if Barack does in fact end up with the most pledged delegates that he does not pull up short in reward. A co-presidency would ensure he would not. Further, it would virtually ensure that the Dems could completely control the Oval Office for the next 16 years. That would only serve the Republicans well in payback inasmuch as they have already "usurped" two presidential elections.

It has never been absolutely clear to me that Barack Obama has not been a stalking horse for a Gore Presidency (scoff if you will). Al Gore made a casual remark when he requested DraftGore to cease and desist that always stayed with me. It was words to the effect that his reasons for making the request would be made clear "down the road." I have stood "down the road" waiting for the reason to crystallize until this day. Barack Obama has said they talk every couple of weeks or so, so obviously there is some sort of rapport there. While it remains unclear whether Barack could take the GE (don't get me wrong, I am a true fan of his but Hillary has outdone herself in her efforts to diminish the man and his campaign), there is little doubt Al Gore could take it. And there is little doubt, Barack Obama would receive that which he so richly deserves, just a little later.

There is an unexplained question why Barack jumped in earlier than planned. There now might be a very legitimate reason that prompted him.

I totally believe Al Gore can obliterate John McCain in the General Election, assuming, of course, complete and thorough monitoring of the final election results are in place election day. And although he has repeatedly said he had no plans to run, he never said he's lost his desire to govern.

Sam

[Andrea]

129. Well put

you present an interesting scenario here. I wonder if we would ever find out if this is true. As far as the co-presidency idea, I think it makes a lot of sense, for many reasons.

[RestoreGore]

130. After Pelosi saying superdelegates won't go against the voters?

Sorry, but I do not believe Al Gore would want to be seen as taking anything the way Bush did. And after the way he was treated by the Democratic party and still now is only seen as the last resort choice to "winning," I find this all to be total bull. People only give a damn about him when they can discuss him in terms of using him for their own political ends while totally dismissing his good work. How absolutely selfish. To force this man into doing this is something I would never forgive the Democratic party for.

[rosesaylavee]

132. This is certainly the most interesting Primary I have ever witnessed.

I will wait and see what happens in the next round of primaries before I count Obama out. I would love to see a Gore/Obama ticket - especially if Hillary gets something out of it too. SCOTUS would suit her considerable talents if that is part of it.

Just a very interesting primary. A very long, bloody primary with a few more breakneck curves coming up just ahead.

[Andrea]

134. It's like nothing I've ever seen before. n/t

[RBInMaine]

133. Pipe dream. Fantasy. Ain't gonna happen. WASTED POST !

[RestoreGore]

136. And why are there no links available? A bit too convenient

[JustinL]

137. this would be my dream ticket

As long as Obama supported it.

Gore would be where he should have been 8 years ago.

Obama would be in the White House for 12 or 16 years instead of 8.

The misgivings about Obama's relative lack of experience would be gone in both this election and in 2012 or 2016, when he runs for the top spot.

We'd have a unified message of opposition to the Iraq War and support for increased international cooperation put forth by two brilliant thinkers.

And, of course, Obama would give a stirring, convincing speech to make the case for the ticket.;)

[autorank]

138. The first two parts are excellent...

[saltpoint]

139. Well, who knows what will happen, but I wouldn't bet the farm on

that scenario.

I'm not convinced that Al Gore could out-poll Barack Obama in a general election at this point. Gore is a great man but Obama is riding History's strong steed into battle.

Obama would more likely accept the VP spot under Gore than under HClinton but is in a position where the point is moot. He's the one in the lead, and will arrive in Denver with an even larger lead, barring some completely unforeseen turn of events.

Last, I think Hillary Clinton is a lot less interested in the grind of legislation in the 111th Congress than she is with the political celebrity of being president. I'd prefer a boatload of other Senators to take Reid's place, including Chris Dodd and Dick Durbin, to name just two.

It may be a serious discussion because the players are all serious folks. But my money's on an Obama White House.

[A-Schwarzenegger]

141. I cant believe anybody took this hogwash seriously for one second.

But that's entertainment.

[rodbailey]

142. Here's a link

to the Zogby site where there is a brief discussion of the Hannity show. So, DeadEye, you didn't really dream this and you actually didn't have to have you aluminum hat on to get that reception - it was real.

http://www.redstate.com/blogs/sickofobama/2008/mar/20/john_zogby_on_hannity_radio_show_talked_of_rumors_that_al_gore_will_take_obamas_delegates

[shellinaya]

164. Nah

This is just talk. There isn't any truth to it, it comes from a far-right blogger! Al Gore does not want to be president. And Obama isn't ready for VP.

[Jamastiene]

144. Will never happen. n/t

[greyghost]

146. This could happen. TPTB are concerned with winning the GE,

NOTHING ELSE. Gore/Obama would give us the WH on a platter.

[LaRaven]

147. Gore/Obama together can heal our country...

After the presidency was stolen from Gore (and Kerry) we have slid into this nightmare. I have been ashamed of my country (and party) since -- including these nasty primaries (which was about who had the most money to stick it out -- hardly democracy!) I am afraid for my son and his generation whcih has been screwed up already by watching this administration lie over and over again -- taking us into this war of greed.

I have been hoping for a Gore presidency -- he has the respect to take Washington from the repugs and lead our country (with Obama) out of shame.

Can you envision a partnership of Gore, PRES; Obama. VP; HIllary. SC. Edwards. AG. Biden; Secy of State; Kucinich, Czar Dept of Peace...?

[knixphan]

153. Right now I'm pro-Biden...

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=132x5193407

BUT!!!

If Al wanted in, he would shoot up to first place in a heartbeat.

[mythyc]

156. Devil's advocate for those who think drafting Gore would be unfair to BO/HRC,, or their voters.....

Is it just about single, one-time votes, or about an awakened political consciousness such as we have never seen before and which could and should be woven into all the fabric of American life, enterprise, responsibility, ingenuity, progress, ideology, hope, faith and creed? Has that money been "wasted", if the party is more energized than it's been in generations, if more people across the board are politically conscious, ethically conscientious, and humanely optimistic for the kind of change the Democratic party is calling for, invested and engaged in this no less? Furthermore, have our primary season efforts really been wasted if these numbers are already galvanized organized and mobilized to bring this into effect, not simply by casting a ballot but by getting involved and helping the cause? Just think, Obama has won more primary votes than any Democratic candidate in U.S. history ever has ----- not just in raw #s, but in proportion to the overall population as well (the youth vote alone, if not disheartened, affords great promise for this nation's future). and guess what: Hillary has too in the hair's breadth behind him. I'd say this is something we should capitalize on through unity, rather than risk losing through internal warfare and strife. This may very well be the most achievable opportunity we have to form the united front that is so vital to this moment in our history and its call that we reinvent ourselves as both a nation and as individuals. --- if concord could be achieved of course.

Yes, those questions of votes, money, candidacies, and "investments" remain to be answered, but they don't strike me as absolutely far-fetched if seen as parts of the greater picture and good the contribute to. Quick point before I go on though, I see good reason for having the doubts of many of the posters on this thread over whether drafting Gore would happen in actuality. I don't see it as so effortlessly simple, though not as so weird unfair or unusual either.

To extend the devil's advocacy though, I've been a staunch Obama supporter ever since Iowa, have donated, have energetically campaigned not on an official level but among all my friends family and acquaintances, and the more I follow the campaign and consider his ideas, and what to me is an authenticity in conceiving and enacting them, I have developed deep loyalty to him and his cause, a loyalty I've never had for another candidate. -- My loyalty to Gore as a humanitarian, as a public servant, as a man of integrity, as voice of reason, and as more respected envoy and representative to the rest of the world than we have had in decades, that would receive due consideration from me should necessity, good sense, and opportunity present themselves, as I think they are.

So, if the party were unanimous on drafting Gore, and if the proposed arrangement were a compromise by which party unity could be achieved, that great a cause and that greater of a good would be something I wouldn't just accept, I'd give it my enthusiastic, full support. Not just because of how profoundly I also believe in Gore's character and integrity, but also because I think he and Obama would make one hell of a team; because I believe Obama would benefit more from Gore's vast experience and expertise than some of us too-sensitively focused on the change-experience meme would like to admit; because Gore I think would be more than receptive--he'd be supportive and energetic about Obama's ideas (grassroots, transparency, ethics reform, social consciousness etc etc) and would very well help build the foundation to make them more secure and integral. And on top of all that, the party would have one hell of a chance to hold power in Washington long enough not only to realize, actualize, and advance all these principles and policies, but also to heal the country, turn the tide of our economic social and individual welfares, secure a SC looking ahead to the 21st century rather than mired in stuffy 20th century ideologies, make a lasting effect on how Washington works, stop the corporate corruption that threatened not simply our personal livelihoods but the environment and humanity's very soul as well, the list goes on, but this is where I get wide-eyed and should remind myself that the purpose of this discussion is devil's advocacy ;).

The more I think about it, the more I LOVE the idea, though again, I see plenty to consider in the posts of other DUers above who doubt this actually coming about.

...

Great thread all-in-all --- This is the most unified spirit I've seen in GDP in the short time I've been at DU, and that, if anything, is enough to indicate that the idea is worth entertaining at least. True, there has been disagreement, but none of the infighting or name-calling or mania that can, despite many of our better natures, rear its ugly head in just about any other context (beside McBush scorn), and this also is a good sign of how the mere thought of Gore can have a good effect. Go from the possible to the real, and from the micro to the macroscosm, and consider how lasting and comprehensive Gore's positive and constructive influence *could* be ....

Final note: though a passionate Obama supporter, & despite my faith in his character and leadership abilities, I really truly do worry about party unity on the one hand and the right wing attack machine on the other. As we speak, we are experiencing the greatest threats yet of this election cycle from both ends. Gore could very well neutralize each in one fell swoop, and that's something we should all consider. Let's not fool ourselves, Gore's so radically and determinately re-invented himself -- a person who was already a great man, leader, and figure -- that he could offer us the same, all while continuing to evolve himself in partnership with Obama's own acumen and vision.

[lildreamer316]

159. Could not have said it better.

Very well put; especially about how well Gore and Obama could work together. Thank you!

[Uncle Joe]

165. Excellent post, mythc.

I totally agree.:thumbsup:

[Andrea]

172. Beautiful post!

You've nailed it! I've been thinking about this for days, but couldn't figure out how best to say it - that we need to turn this groundswell of new interest and activity into something lasting. What good will it do us if all these enthusiastic new voters and activists come out and work their hearts out and we end up with McCain? What a waste and a tragedy!

I hadn't thought of this before, but you are so right: Gore and Obama would complement each other so well. This would be a good partnership which is very rare betweee Presidents and Vice-Presidents. Gore recognizes the need to get young people involved and active. That is what Current TV is all about. Surely he respects what Obama has done in this regard.

Thanks for presenting this well-thought essay!

[mythyc]

176. you're welcome =)

i've spent a long time thinking about this. the more I think about it the simpler the concept seems but the more complex its actuation feels. At the very least, even if Gore is never drafted, or if the party's various warring factions do not end up supporting such a petition were it raised, Obama is going to need to do something MAJOR to bring true unity to the Dems. I can't think of what that would be top of my head, which is why I like the Gore option, because it would bring about both unity and an a strategic, organizational, and coalitional juggernaut that the right wing would not be able to stop. It could dramatically alter the course of history, whereas Obama going at it alone could very well meet resistance not just from the conservatives, but from groups within his own party. Unity is only achievable by consensus, and if everyone (ok, a healthy majority) agrees, is contributing, and has a voice in effecting change.

[progressoid]

179. The grass is always greener...

Imagine this scenario... June 2007: Al Gore decides to run for president, Obama does not. Fast forward to March 2008: A constant bombardment by RW media of Gore's missteps and mistakes have become daily headlines. Now some of his supporters are wavering. They wonder, "Wouldn't it have been great if Obama had run. Remember that great speech he gave at the convention. Maybe we could draft him!"

I think a lot of people have a utopian dream for our party and our potential president. So, in spite of the impracticality of a Gore draft, we grasp onto this romantic idea of some sort of new JFK. Instead of accepting the reality of the nominee, we second guess and some even consider dumping the front runner at the last minute.

Neither Obama and Clinton were my first choices. Gore was. Followed by Edwards. But they all have flaws. And given enough time we would find those flaws and have second thoughts about that choice.

Also, it's true that we have had an enormous turn out this year. But to assume that a majority of those that have been pouring their heart and soul into their respective campaigns (in many cases for the first time in their lives) would suddenly decide to chuck it all for some other guy is delusional. It's like cheering you basketball team all the way to the final four and then changing sides at the end.

[cali]

157. I will not vote for Albert Gore

I will not vote for Albert Gore
not if I'm rich or if I'm poor
not in the shade or in the sun
He did not take the chance and run
I will not vote for anyone
who did not step into the fray
and fight to win it everyday.
I will not vote
not on a boat
not on the shore
I will not vote for Mr. Gore.

[npincus]

158. he missed his moment, and I was all for Gore. It's Obama's nomination.

[shellinaya]

162. Please NO

Why does Al Gore deserve anything handed to him? He hasn't been campaigninng, and he needs to go back to work on climate change where he's needed.

He had his chance and he didn't want it, so forget it. I used to support him, but there would be too much resentment if he stepped in and took it away from Hillary.

And Barack needs to go back to the Senate and get a few more years under his belt, he doesn't deserve the VP either. He's not ready.

[Seabiscuit]

163. The only hope for a Dem landslide victory is Gore/Edwards. And it's not going to happen.

The way things are going, we're going to lose the GE.

[sunnystarr]

166. I can't believe this BULL

Is this a thread of HRC supporters?? Yeah I can see this now ... Obama takes over 18 months campaigning, raises countless of millions of dollars to run the best campaign in Dem history, inspires supporters and doubles the Dem turnout... sacrifices time with his wife and children ... is ahead in delegates and states ... and then says ....

"I'll be happy to step aside and let Al Gore be the presidential candidate. Guess I wanted the VP slot all along."

And Gore, without putting in one minute of his time campaigning, fundraising, and sacrificing .l.. just steps right in to the top of the ticket.

Oh and all the BO supporters and voters will stand up and cheer his chance in history to be the first black VP.

What fantasy land are you all living in?????

[LWolf]

167. Well, one scenario is a postive, although

why you'd spoil a good nominee by adding Obama to the ticket is beyond me. I'd like to see both Senators go back to the Senate and demonstrate their commitment to change there.

[LordJFT]

168. I'd be ok with this, but I don't think it's going to happen

[LTR]

169. That's been posted here quite a few times over the last few days

And it's bullshit.

If Gore wanted it, he would have run. And he would probably be the nominee by now.

The DNC often makes some pretty boneheaded moves, but switching horses like this in midstream is political suicide. They'll rally around the strongest current candidate and that will be that. No smoke-filled rooms this time around ala Warren Harding in 1920. Those days are over.

[Sensitivity]

170. Gore/Obama is probably the best "back room" ticket for Nov. That's a Country First decision

and I think Obama would go along if the convention is deadlocked.

[biggerfishsmallpond]

171. if it is unacceptable for the superdelegates to over rule the voters

I can't see this being a viable option.
The winner wins.
period.

Therefore, by the numbers it will be Obama.

In terms of party unity, I do believe that the vast majority of Dems will get behind the nominated candidate. If there are hold outs or corporatist monkey wrenchers, then there may be trouble.

If a convention deal happened, then it would send a message that the millions of dollars, thousands of volunteer hours,severed friendships, time, blood, sweat and countless animated debates were all for naught. It sends the message to the voters that despite that process, the winner wasn't 'good enough'. (and the is 'good enough to beat McCain). It sends the message that we are a bunch of suckers. I see this setting a really dangerous precedent. The only way it would be remotely successful would be long and public dialogue leading up to the convention - not a surprise, smoky back room deal.

I believe that the primary process needs to be tweaked, but right now it is the only process we got.

that said. I do have almost an involuntary, positive emotional response with the idea of President Gore. But that response is sentimental. Obama is about the future.

[Andrea]

173. The thing is, it's not unacceptable

It's according to the party rules. When we take part in the primary process, we need to realize that we are playing by the rules that are in place. If people don't like the process, they need to get active in the party and work to change the rules. As it stands now, this is completely acceptable.

Furthermore, there is no likely scenario by which either Obama or Clinton will have enough pledged delegates to win the nomination.

The only way this will come to pass is with the agreement of one or both of Obama and Clinton. I think the one more likely to simply refuse to agree to any deal is Clinton, but I think the party leaders will work very hard to come up with a deal that is agreeable to both. When they speak to their delegates and followers and explain their reasoning, people will be okay with it. They respect their candidate's judgment.

This will unify the party and make us unbeatable in November. Nobody wants the alternative: President McCain and the Democratic party in shambles. And it will most definitely be in shambles. After these last eight years, if we don't win, there will be a massive defection. People won't become Republicans, but they will most definitely give up on Democrats.

This isn't about sending a message that either candidate isn't "good enough" to beat McCain. That's simply the apparent reality. The polls show that and the trend is increasing.

We can move on to a wonderful future where we control the White House for the next 16 years, with very long coattails to control Congress, and where we can finally make the real change we all long for. Or, we can disintegrate and hand this country permanently to the Bushes of this world.

[Bake]

174. Al, are you listening???

That would be a ticket I could support wholeheartedly, contribute to, and work for!!

DO IT, AL!!

Bake

[I Vote In Pittsburgh]

175. Wow...

I'm surprised at all the people supporting this idea. Obama has a clear, large lead in pledged delegates, so he is clearly the frontrunner. Do you have any idea how many people (including myself) this would piss the fuck off? I didn't donate money, register my college friends in Pittsburgh, and argue with people for GORE. I did it for OBAMA because he is the first president in my lifetime that I would be proud of.

You talk about MI/FL and superdelegates being undemocratic... and then you suggest Gore being drafted into the presidency by party insiders? What a farce! And this would unite us? :spray:
By accepting this idea, you are indirectly accepting the media fairy tale that Obama somehow has a good chance of losing the nomination.

[ozone_man]

177. Gore/Obama would make a fine ticket.

Gore has the experience and environmental leadership, and Obama has the inspiration and will still be young in 2016. It makes perfect sense to me.

[Kahuna]

178. Yeah right. Stop yanking my chain..

whatever that means... :shrug: