As the Supreme Court considers challenges to same sex marriages, parallels have been made to the Supreme Court case in 1967 that ruled that states could not prohibit two people from different racial backgrounds from marrying. Interracial marriages still only represent about 8% of all the marriages in 2012.Another poll from last year revealed that 29% of respondents in Mississippi still believe that interracial marriage should be illegal.

My question this week is two-fold.Do you think the comparison of interracial marriage and same sex marriage is a legitimate one and how do you really feel about interracial relationships?

A recent poll revealed that Americans have lost confidence in the President’s ability to get things done. Two third of those surveyed believe the President is fighting hard to get things done but twice as many blame the Republicans for the lack of compromise in Washington.

What’s your take? If you had the opportunity to sit down with President Obama, what advice would you give him to help “get some things done” despite the opposition?

NBA veteran Jason Collins has been front and center in the media over the past few days after announcing that he is gay. President Obama and fellow NBA players Kobe Bryant and Dwayne Wade are among the many that have offered support and applauded his decision. Some  journalists have even equated  this “first” with  Jackie Robinson’s “first” of breaking of the color barrier in professional baseball back in 1947.

How do you feel about the comparison? Should Jason Collins be considered the “Jackie Robinson” of 2013?

U.S. officials have reported that the Syrian government has “probably” used chemical weapons. President Obama said that any use of chemical weapons by Syria would be a "game changer," but cautioned that the United States needs more evidence that President Assad has used the deadly agents against his people.

What’s your take? How should the United States respond if in fact chemical weapons were used?

The second suspect apprehended in the Boston Marathon bombing, who reportedly became an American citizen in 2012, will not be read his Miranda rights initially because the government will be invoking a public safety exception, according to an anonymous Justice official.  The public safety exception permits law enforcement officials to engage in a limited and focused unwarned interrogation of a suspect and allows the government to introduce the statement as evidence in court.

How do you feel about law enforcement officers being able to interrogate an American suspect without first providing a warning of rights and legal representation?

Threats by North Korea over the past few weeks were mostly regarded without merit and dismissed as rhetoric and posturing by the world’s youngest head of state. A new assessment by the Pentagon’s intelligence arm has concluded for the first time, with “moderate confidence,” that North Korea has learned how to make a nuclear weapon small enough to be delivered by a ballistic missile.
Director of National Intelligence, James R. Clapper Jr., released a somewhat contradictory statement saying that “North Korea has not yet demonstrated the full range of capabilities necessary for a nuclear armed missile.”

What’s your take? Considering the mixed messages from the intelligence community, do you believe North Korea is a serious threat? How do you think the US should proceed at this point with North Korea?

Nationwide, 88 percent of Americans surveyed said they favored universal background checks while only 10 percent said they were opposed including 85 percent of gun owners. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid has stated that any bill that passes the Senate on gun control must include broader background checks, but will not include a controversial ban on assault weapons. Reid said he would allow amendments limiting high-capacity magazines and a ban on assault weapons, though their chances on the floor are grim.

Why do you think Congress seems to be so out of step with the majority of Americans?

A New York City campaign targeting teenage pregnancy has drawn criticism that the ads reinforce negative stereotypes about teenage mothers without offering any information to help girls prevent unplanned pregnancies. Haydee Morales, vice president for education and training at Planned Parenthood of New York City, said the organization was “shocked and taken aback” by the tone of the new campaign. “It’s not teen pregnancies that cause poverty, but poverty that causes teen pregnancy,” she said.

What’s your take? Does teen pregnancy cause poverty or is poverty at the root of teen pregnancy as the research indicates? Take a look at the research  and share your opinions about this campaign and whether you think it will reduce teen pregnancy.

Check out the other ads HERE

 

Basketball is in the air and on the airwaves. TV ad revenue alone for the 2012 NCAA Basketball tournament reportedly surpassed the $1 billion mark second only to the NFL in terms of ad sales for a postseason sporting event. With millions made in ads and seven figure salaries for top tier coaches, has the time come for student athletes to be compensated for their efforts and receive what many perceive as their fair share of the pie?

Congressional Black Caucus Chairwomen Rep. Marcia Fudge has raised concerns about the absence of diversity in President Obama’s cabinet. NY Representative Charlie Rangel has described the lack of diversity as “embarrassing as hell”. The President has reportedly filled ten vacancies over the past three months and has yet to appoint an African American. Three top level positions remain open. What’s your take?

Why do you think as he enters his second term, President Obama is  behind both Presidents’ Clinton and  GW Bush when it comes to the numbers of African Americans in his cabinet?

Kentucky Republican Senator Rand Paul spoke for 13 hours last week in a filibuster of John Brennan’s confirmation as CIA Director. He stated “I wanted everybody to know that our Constitution is precious and that no American should be killed by a drone without first being charged with a crime." Attorney General Eric Holder didn’t entirely rule out a scenario under which a drone strike would be ordered against Americans on U.S. soil, but he could only see it being considered in an extraordinary circumstance. White House spokesman Jay Carney said Thursday that “the President has not and would not use drone strikes against American citizens on American soil.”

How do you feel about the use of drone strikes against American citizens? Could you ever envision a situation that would justify the killing of an American not yet charged with a crime?

A recent report has revealed that despite the fact that President Obama won a higher percentage of the White vote than any Democratic nominee since 1976, racial resentment has in fact increased during his first term. My question this week is two-fold. What do you think is at the root of this increasing  racial divide and  is the notion of a post racial America realistic?

The NRA has launched a national program that they claim will help protect schools from future incidents of violence by utilizing armed resource officers in every single school in the city. Missing from their plan is any reference to any restrictions on gun sales or expanding background checks or how these armed resource officers would be paid. In contrast, a recent poll revealed that a majority of Americans favor stricter gun control laws and a nationwide ban on semi-automatic weapons as part of a strategy to reduce gun violence. This same poll indicated that Americans believe controlling gun ownership is more important than protecting the right to own guns.
What’s your take? What is the answer to protecting schools and reducing gun violence in America?

NY Congressman Charlie Rangel believes for real equality, the US should reinstate the draft and open it up to women. He further states that the draft would force America to think twice about involvement in wars. Those who did not want to perform military service could instead apply to serve in the Peace Corps or AmeriCorps. Unlike the last time the draft was implemented in the United States, there would be no exception for students in college or universities.

What’s your take? Should America reinstate the draft?

A Justice Department memo, given to select members of Congress last year, says the U.S. government can use lethal force against American citizens overseas who are operational leaders of al Qaeda or its affiliates. The Supreme Court has also held that the military may use force against an American who is part of enemy forces.
Do you think drone strikes on U.S. citizens abroad should have some sort of judicial oversight?

The theme of Black History Month 2013 is “At the crossroads of Freedom and Equality” marking two important anniversaries in the history of African Americans; the 150th anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation and the 50th anniversary of the March on Washington. While we reflect on these and other milestones this February, the question of how we celebrate our history and prepare for our future is a question that has been reverberating in our communities for years. The question of whether Black History Month is still necessary and viable is the subject of my question this week. Does Black History Month need a second look? Is Black History Month relevant in 2013?

Outgoing Defense Secretary Leon Panetta lifted the military ban on women in combat last week. The shift in policy comes on the heels of calls for a fully inclusive military and the President’s inaugural address promising expanded opportunities to women. This decision could open more than 230,000 jobs, many in Army and Marine infantry units, to women. Some have raised questions of strength and performance and suggestions that the American public would not tolerate large numbers of women being killed in war.

What’s your take? How do you feel about women on the front lines in combat?  

It is official; the President has been sworn into office for his second term. A recent poll revealed Americans want the President to focus on jobs, reducing corruption in federal government and reducing the budget as priorities. What do you think should be at the top of the list? What will be the legacy of the Obama administration and who will be positioned to carry the torch?

More often than not, Black on Black violence has been reduced to a headline on the six o’clock news featuring interviews with devastated family members and friends of the victim along with the obligatory candlelight vigils. Just like the recent attention and extensive coverage of the Sandy Hook tragedy, the record number of murders in Black communities of Chicago and other urban cities should warrant the same media attention and concern.  The number of murders in Chicago is predicted to surpass 2012 with 12 homicides already reported this year.

Why is the discussion of Black on Black crime almost nonexistent even in our own community?

How should the issue of violence in our communities across the country be addressed?         

The Sandy Hook tragedy and recent mass shootings and incidents of gun violence have kept the issue of gun control and reform on the front burner. The President has promised to support renewal of an assault weapons ban, restrictions on the size of ammunition clips, and improved background checks on gun owners.

What do you think needs to happen to keep our schools and community safe? Do you agree with the NRA that placing armed guards in our schools will make our kids safer?

Gridlock continues to be the name of the game in Washington. What have our elected officials done for us lately? Democrats and Republicans have both failed the American people. Is it partisan gridlock or incompetence bordering on malfeasance? The end result is the same.

The real question is how long will we allow our elected officials to operate in their  Congressional Bubble that affords them government backed health care, financial security and a lifetime pension while many working Americans are struggling without a safety net trying not to go over their own fiscal cliffs?

How do we pop the Congressional Bubble and clean up this mess in 2013?

The recent mass shootings at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Connecticut and the mall in Oregon have renewed the national debate over gun control. The United States has the highest rate of gun ownership in the world, with 88.8 guns per 100 people.
 
Why do you think even the discussion of limiting access to assault weapons is met with such opposition? Do you support the reinstatement of a federal ban on assault weapons?



 

The Supreme Court has agreed to consider challenges to same sex marriage on two fronts next year. The first questions the constitutionality of the Defense of Marriage Act, testing whether the federal government can deny federal benefits to legally married same-sex couples--- benefits automatically granted to heterosexual couples. The court will also hear challenges to Proposition 8, the ballot measure approved by California's voters in 2008 that defined marriage as between a man and a woman, overturning a state high-court ruling earlier that year that had permitted gays and lesbians to wed.

Regardless of your opinions of same sex marriage, do you think benefits should be denied to legally married couples? Should a state proposition overturn a court ruling? How do you think the Supreme Court will rule?  

A Florida gun collector has pleaded not guilty and is considering invoking Florida’s “Stand Your Ground” law to a murder charge alleging that he opened fire on a car full of unarmed teenagers, killing 17 year old Jordan Davis, in an altercation that police say stemmed from loud music. The fact that shooter drove off after the shooting has been labeled as "unconscionable" by Jordan’s mother. The shooter, 45 year old Michael Dunn was reportedly arrested a day later 173 miles away from the shooting. His lawyer stated that Dunn felt “threatened” by the kids who were blasting loud music, blaming his fear on the lyrics of the music.

How do you view this case? Do you think these laws are perceived by some as a license to kill?

Speculation that President Obama may tap Ambassador Susan Rice as Secretary of State has raised the ire of 97 members of the House of Representatives and Senators Lindsey Graham and John McCain who stated that Ambassador Rice is “not qualified.” McCain states that he will do everything in his power to block her from the cabinet position due to her role in the administration’s response to the deadly attack on the US consulate in Benghazi, Libya.

What do you think? Is this really about qualifications or could it be that  race and gender are playing a role in what some have described as a bizarre and unfounded attack on this UN Ambassador who was confirmed in 2009 by unanimous consent?

Colorado and Washington have become the first states in the nation to approve the use of marijuana for recreational purposes. It will now be legal under Colorado and Washington law for adults 21 years and older to possess up to an ounce of marijuana. In Colorado, people will be able to grow as many as six plants. In Washington, users will have to buy their marijuana from state-licensed providers. But here is a big problem, the federal government still views marijuana as a Schedule I prohibited substance.

What do you think? How do you feel about the voter’s wishes versus the federal government’s position? Should the federal government allow these states to have a regulated marijuana market?

Campaign 2012 has finally come to an end. The endless negative TV ads will soon be replaced by endless Christmas commercials and the obligatory Black Friday all night once in a lifetime specials. The cable TV political pundits and prognosticators will soon turn their thoughts to 2016 and we will be lulled back into our respective cocoons for another four years waiting for another round of incessant negative ads. My question this week, before all of the campaign promises become a distant memory, is what one issue do you want the President to tackle on day one?

A Florida judge has ruled that defense attorneys for admitted killer George Zimmerman have the right to subpoena the social media accounts and school records of Trayvon Martin. Martin’s parents feel that school records are not relevant and Martin family attorney Martin Crump called what Zimmerman’s lawyers were doing as “the old classic method of attacking the victim.”

How do you feel about the judge’s ruling?

The Supreme Court heard arguments last week on the constitutionality of the consideration of race in college admissions. A white female alleges in the case of Fisher vs. University of Texas that she was denied admission to the university because of her race. Fisher wants college admissions to be “completely race neutral”. This case has renewed the debate over whether affirmation action is necessary in 2012.

What do you think? Is this a case of reverse discrimination? How would you define race neutral? Have we reached the point that affirmation action programs are no longer needed?   

 

President Obama’s less than stellar debate appearance last week has been the buzz of the political pundits the past few days. The spin doctors have offered a litany of excuses; the latest excuse blamed his lackluster performance on the altitude. What does the President need to do to rebuild the momentum lost?

Mitt Romney has been hailed the victor despite the fact that the fact checkers reveal that a lot of what he espoused was untrue. He seemed to contradict most of what he had built his “conservative” platform around. Many have hailed his shift back to the middle as a brilliant campaign strategy.

Who is the real Mitt Romney? The self described conservative from the Republican Primaries or the moderate New England Governor known for working with Democrats and RomneyCare? 
 

The first Presidential Debate of this campaign season is Wednesday October 3rd. What hot button topics are you expecting to be addressed?

What is the one question that you would you ask if you had the opportunity?

 An American University professor is facing backlash for her decision to not only bring her infant child to the first day of her “Sex, Gender Culture” class but to openly breastfeed the child  in front of the 40 or so students in attendance. Responding to criticism from students and the University, the professor has since published an essay complaining of a hostile environment. 

Mitt Romney’s recent comments attacking the Obama administration for what he described as “apologizing” instead of condemning recent attacks on Libya and Egypt have left Republican and Democrats condemning the politicizing of a tragedy that left an American Ambassador and three others dead. President Obama says Mitt Romney didn’t have the facts right and “seems to have a tendency to shoot first and aim later.” Mr. Obama said that as president, he has learned it’s important to — in his words— “make sure that the statements that you make are backed up by the facts.”

What's your take? What do you think about the comments?

The Department of Agriculture reports that nearly 1 in 7 Americans participate in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, the food stamp program known as SNAP. Some health care advocates and politicians are pushing to discontinue food stamp purchases for items high in salt, fat or sugar. SNAP reform bills are pending in nine states that would restrict the purchase of soda, potato chips and chewing gum.
What’s your take? Should the government limit consumer decisions in the grocery store?

Will excluding unhealthy choices make participants healthier?

“Are you better off now than you were four years ago” - a question the Romney campaign is touting as a referendum on the President. In his own defense, the President raises the question with a wider perspective, “Are you better off now than you were prior to him taking office?” Regardless of political affiliation, the question at hand, in my opinion is which candidate is best equipped to put the country in a better position four years from now.

My question this week is two-fold. Are you personally better off now than you were when President Obama took office in 2009 and which presidential candidate do you think is best equipped to put the country in better shape four years from now?

In another of a string of outlandish and in this case ,racist comments this campaign season, a Texas judge, yes a Republican elected judge, is under fire for suggesting that the nation could experience civil unrest, civil disobedience, possibly civil war if President Barack Obama is re-elected. He also called for a well-equipped force to battle the United Nations troops that he said the President might bring in.
Texas Democrats and sane people everywhere are calling for his resignation. Believe it or not, the county's Republican Party chief has accused the Democrats of "opportunism" and said he called the judge and left him a message offering "moral support."
How much is too much? Should the Republican Party insist that this judge step down?

The national unemployment reportedly continues to hover around 8% while the rate of unemployed African Americans rose nearly a full percentage point to 14.4% in June. The report revealed that “this trend is not a new one, as the black unemployment rate has been roughly double that of whites since the government started tracking the figures in 1972.” The last time a Democratic incumbent President faced a Republican challenger with the Black unemployment rate this high was 1980. The unemployment rate was then 14.5% and contributed to Ronald Reagan receiving 14% of the African American vote, defeating Jimmy Carter.

We have had some heated debates over the past weeks regarding whether issues affecting the African American community are being largely ignored by both parties so far this campaign season. Some have predicted that President Obama can be expected to lose between 400,000 and 500,000 African American votes. My question this week is - How do you think rising African American unemployment will affect the President’s support from African Americans this November?

Black voter participation peaked in 2008 driven by increased participation among Black women and younger voters “Overall, among all racial, ethnic and gender groups, black women had the highest voter turnout rate in November’s election -- a first.”  An African American State Senator from Wisconsin made national news last week when she told supporters “to vote for someone who looks like you.” How do you feel about the comment?

Is it OK for a Black person to only vote for other Blacks? Would you vote for or against a candidate solely on the basis of race? What about religious beliefs or sexual orientation?

 

The issue of perceived racist comments by African Americans has caused many to question whether so called political correctness has gotten out of control. Politico’s Joe Williams lost his job a few weeks ago for inferring that Mitt Romney is more comfortable with “White Folks”. Was that a racist statement? Closer to home, one of my panelists was labeled a racist last week for statements about White people and their conquests around the globe. This self described brother accused me of being a racist simply for my silence and for refusing to ban my panelist for life. (see comments posted Wed July 25) Give me a break, aren’t these the same right wing nut jobs that conveniently invoke the first amendment to justify throwing every slur and epithet at our first African American President?

My question this week is what is YOUR definition of racism and does a Black person really have the ability and power to be racist?

One of the weapons used in last week’s horrific Colorado massacre was banned in the United States from 1994 until 2004 under the Federal Assault weapons ban .The military style semi automatic AR-15 assault rifle can carry a magazine with more than 30 rounds. Politicians including former PA Governor Ed Rendell and NY mayor Michael Bloomberg are urging legislators to revisit the gun-control debate.

What do you think? What possible rationale would justify the continued sale of these deadly high power assault rifles?

A Florida lifeguard made the news last week when he was fired for saving a life. That’s right, saving a life! He admittedly disregarded rules and policy by leaving his zone to save the life of a man drowning in unprotected waters. Six of his fellow lifeguards were also fired for saying they would have done the same thing.

What do you think? Did he do the right thing? Given the company’s policy, what does this say about the state of our society and moral values? 

Attorney General Eric Holder has testified eight times on Capitol Hill and provided over 7500 pages of documents related to Fast and Furious, a Mexican drug war operation that began in 2009,that he admits went terribly wrong resulting in the lost of illegal firearms ,two of which have been connected to the death of a federal agent.
Now, he has been cited for contempt by a congressional panel, thanks to Republicans, for failing to release materials related to an on-going investigation and court sealed wiretap applications.

Is this really contempt or simply political theater in an election year?

President Obama has given major attention to the agendas of the LGBT and Latino communities over the past weeks.

Do you think the agenda of the African American community will receive similar attention considering the vast majority of African Americans are likely to support the President anyway? If so, what issues specific to the African American community do you think the President should address with the same sense of urgency and boldness?  

The 2012 Presidential campaign is heating up with attention grabbing TV and radio ads. According to the Washington Post,TV ad buys are typically the single largest expenditure of a presidential campaign. A reported 162 million dollars has been spent so far just on television with 63% of those ads defined as negative.

How much of an influence will the ads have on your vote? 

Bond has been revoked for George Zimmerman, admitted killer of unarmed 17 year old Trayvon Martin. Zimmerman and his wife have been accused of lying to the court about how much money they had available when bond was set at $150,000 in April. Prosecutors say they had $135,000 available and that Zimmerman also failed to surrender a second passport.
The defense says the finances are an innocent misunderstanding.
What do you think? Is this a misunderstanding or a true reflection of his lack of credibility?

GOP operatives have evidently decided on a campaign strategy that includes the contention that President Obama was never fully vetted prior to his election. Stories of old girlfriends, clips of Jeremiah Wright and birther conspiracies are all being thrown in the pot to muddy the waters to distract from the real issues facing America today.

What do you think about this strategy and do you agree with some pundits that this may end up being one of the nastiest Presidential campaigns in history?

President Obama’s endorsement of the right of same sex couples to marry has dominated the news cycle for days. A recent poll has revealed that 53% of Americans agree that same sex marriages should be recognized by law is valid.
How do you think this polarizing issue will affect the 2012 presidential election?

How will the President’s stance affect your decision at the ballot box?

What does it say about our society when elementary school children as young as kindergarten age are arrested and/or handcuffed by law enforcement? Just recently a first grader was suspended for alleged sexual harassment.

How do you feel about the disciplinary action taken at such an early age? How would you have handled the situations?  

Recent reports of seafood deformities including eyeless shrimp and fish with lesions in the Gulf have raised questions from scientists and fisherman about poisoning of the food chain and the overall safety of the seafood.

BP and the government maintain that Gulf seafood is safe.   
What do you think? How comfortable are you eating seafood from the Gulf?

Ted Nugent, who has endorsed Mitt Romney is standing by his inflammatory comments to the NRA that included that he would ”either be dead or in jail” by next year if President Obama is reelected. He accused the government of “wiping its ass with the constitution” and that “we need to ride into that battlefield and chop their heads off in November.Considering the media frenzy during the 2008 campaign that forced then Senator Obama to disavow and repudiate his minister of 20 years due to what was perceived as Anti-American comments, should Mitt Romney follow suit and repudiate these comments from his friend and supporter Ted Nugent?
 

George Zimmerman has been charged with second degree murder, a criminal act demonstrating a depraved mind and disregard  for human life in the death of Trayvon Martin. Zimmerman has claimed self defense under the Florida Stand Your Ground Law which has been labeled by some as the “License to Murder Statute”.

What do you think are the chances that Zimmerman will be convicted of second degree murder?

President Obama has been labeled a thug by some right wing conservatives after his statement that he is confident that the Supreme Court will not take what “would be an unprecedented, extraordinary step of overturning a law that was passed by a strong majority of a democratically elected Congress.”

What does it say about our society or our country when the President of the United States is referred to as a “thug”?

Oprah Winfrey has expressed an interest in interviewing George Zimmerman, the killer of Trayvon Martin.

What do you think about her giving him the platform? Would you watch the interview?

The death of Trayvon Martin has sparked national attention and outrage. Florida’s “Stand Your Ground” Law that permits residents to use deadly force if they believe it necessary to prevent death or great bodily harm has allowed admitted killer George Zimmerman to remain free.

How do you feel about this law and do you think “Stand Your Ground” applies in this case?
 

Given the recent debate over birth control, contraceptive is now a dirty word. A bill proposed in Arizona would allow employers to deny health insurance for contraceptives based on religious objections. Women who wish to have their contraceptives covered would have to prove that they are using the pills for non reproductive reasons. Employers would have the right to fire women that wish to exercise their right to be sexually responsible with the use of contraceptives.

What do you think? How comfortable would you feel sharing your medical records with your employer?

A Montana federal judge’s racist email that included a joke involving bestiality and President Obama’s mother has drawn outrage and calls for him to step down amid questions of judgment, credibility and impartiality as a judge. He has apologized to the President and accepted responsibility.
Is his apology enough? Should he be allowed to remain on the bench? What consequences do you think should be levied?

Judge Richard Cebull 

New voter ID laws in Virginia have been described as a throwback to Jim Crow era politics. Voters who fail to bring required ID will receive a provisional ballot that will be vetted AFTER the election.  Democrats have challenged the evidence of substantial voter fraud. What do you think?

Preventing voter fraud or suppressing the minority vote?

Should the US engage militarily to support an Israeli attack or should America continue on a course of diplomatic sanctions?

An ongoing conversation since my January 18th post  has raised an interesting question. The term racist, according to referral sources, is a belief that a particular race is superior and equates racism with the practice and advocacy of discrimination. What do you think? Can Black people be racist?

Do people of color really have the power to discriminate and ability to be racist?

U.S. Marines joking and urinating on the bloody dead bodies of Taliban soldiers, “What were they thinking?”  Obviously, not about any sense of core values, respect and how these actions could jeopardize US –Afghan relations.  

What disciplinary actions do you think should be levied?

The National Transportation Safety Board recently recommended a nationwide ban on the use of cell phones while driving. According to the safety board, distracted driving is becoming the new DUI.   
What do you think? Should talking on cell phone while driving be prohibited?     

Two thirds of State legislatures have introduced new voter ID laws and elimination of early voting and same day registration. A 2006 Brennan Center Study revealed that 25% of African Americans are without an ID. What do you think?
Are the new voter ID laws and restrictions an effort to suppress the African American vote?

The National Defense Authorization Act has come under fire from the White House for provisions that would allow the indefinite detention of Americans suspected of terrorism arrested within the US.

How do you feel about the Act? Are we sacrificing too much in the name of national security?

The Occupy Wall Street Movement continues to raise questions and add to the public debate over whether 24/7 camps in public spaces is protected freedom of assembly. Recent rulings in New York and other cities have resulted in restrictions and evictions.

How do you feel about the evictions and do you think they are an infringement of the protesters’ First Amendment rights?

Thanksgiving Day, celebrated in America since 1863, is a time for reflection and giving thanks for our many gifts and blessings, even in these times of strained resources and economic uncertainty.
 What are you grateful for this Thanksgiving?

Thousands of supporters of Penn State Head Coach Joe Paterno have protested his firing, despite the fact that he  failed to report allegations of the rape of a young boy to police in 2002.The State Police Commissioner has described Paterno’s actions as a lapse in “moral responsibility”.

How do you feel about the University’s response to the scandal so far?

Who would have thought GOP presidential hopeful Herman Cain would take the lead over the much ballyhooed Rick Perry and would wind up in a dead heat in the polls with Mitt Romney despite allegations of sexual misconduct?

How do you feel about Herman Cain and do you think he will be the eventual nominee? 

Despite the number of American jobs lost as a result of previous U.S. trade agreements, Congress has recently passed free trade agreements with South Korea, Colombia and Panama in what Washington believes will stimulate the economy and have a favorable impact on the job market.  
What do you think? How do you feel about these free trade agreements?  

On the heels of the demise Muammar Qaddafi, President Obama announced the planned withdrawal of troops from Iraq by year’s end. Republican Senator Lindsay Graham has stated that the decision to pull out of Iraq is a serious mistake.

What do you think?  Is it time to bring the troops home?

President Obama conceded that “American people are not better off  than they were four years ago.”  The President’s transparency may be a day late and a dollar short.

What does the President need to do to turn the economy around?   

The “Occupy Wall Street" movement against corporate greed and social inequality continues to grow and has garnered support from a diverse group including celebrities and demonstrators from across the political spectrum.

Why do you think this movement has been ignored for the most part by the mainstream media?

The President’s recent deficit reduction plan proposes a tax hike on those earning over $250K.  While most Republicans oppose any tax increases, several Democrats have expressed reservations about the $250K threshold.
 
What do you think? Do you agree that tax increases  are needed and if so, should the threshold be at $250K or  $1M as suggested by Democrats.
 

Hundreds of thousands have signed petitions and rallied in support of Troy Davis who was convicted in Georgia twenty years ago for the murder of a police officer. Seven of nine witnesses have since recanted their testimony alleging police coercion and intimidation. With significant doubt, and a lack of physical evidence, how is it that there are still those in our midst that continue to call for and even cheer the execution of Mr. Davis?

Let your voice be heard! Sign the Petition!

The State of Arizona has passed a law that allows the Department of Corrections to charge each family member a $25 one-time fee to visit an incarcerated relative. Some are calling the law unconstitutional.

What do you think? Should there be a visitation fee and is it constitutional?

President Obama will address the nation Thursday to detail his vision for job creation and growth. Many supporters are demanding a bold job plan that includes middle class tax cuts and new stimulus spending.

What does the President need to say to show that he is serious about putting Americans back to work?

How do you feel about the fact that no American sculptors or construction workers were deemed worthy of the privilege to design and erect a statue of Dr. King?

President Obama’s approval ratings have hit an all time low according to a recent poll. With a steep decline in economic confidence, a few members within his own party are calling for a Democratic Primary Challenge.

Should President Obama face a primary challenge? If yes, what challenger (s) would you support?

The flash mob phenomenon that started out as an outlet for creative expression through spontaneous performances has now turned into violent riots and looting in cities spanning the globe from London to Philadelphia.

These incidents have been described as everything from political unrest to race riots.  What do you think is really behind the surge in violence and what needs to happen?

Minimal national media attention has been given to the historic recall elections in Wisconsin. Several State Senators on both sides of the aisle are at risk due to outrage over the repeal of collective bargaining rights of public employee unions, signed into law by Governor Walker.

Why do you think these elections have been largely ignored by much of the media outside of the State of Wisconsin, especially considering the reported $30 million dollars that has poured from the outside to influence the outcome?  

Sweltering triple digit temperatures coupled with the heated debt ceiling debate in Washington have put the country on edge. It is now August 1st and speculation of financial Armageddon still looms in the minds of some economists.

 How do you feel about Washington’s ability or inability to govern and their handling of the debt ceiling debacle?

A federal appeals court recently ruled that a California man’s racist post suggesting that then Presidential Candidate Obama be shot and that "He will have a 50 cal in the head soon" is constitutionally protected free speech, even though he was found to be in possession of several weapons including a .50 caliber rifle when arrested.

Do you agree? Free Speech or Criminal Hate Speech?

Fundraising has surpassed the $35 million dollar mark among  2012 GOP presidential hopefuls and a whopping $86 million dollars are already in the coffers for President Obama.

How do you feel about the increasingly obscene amount of money needed to fund campaigns, especially now in the midst of an economic downturn and budget crisis?

On again, off again deficit reduction negotiations on Capitol Hill have included possible cuts in Medicare and Social Security to offset proposed revenue increases. Advocacy groups including the AARP are urging lawmakers to reject any proposal that would cut the benefits seniors have earned through a lifetime of hard work.

What do you think? Should Social Security and Medicare be on the table?

The recent arrest of a 20 year old University of New Mexico football player for refusing to pull up his sagging pants on a US Airlines flight in San Francisco has been labeled as a clear case of racism by the NAACP. An airline employee said that his pants were below his butt and his boxers were showing. Ironically, the airline had no problem allowing a man wearing a woman’s bathing suit, thigh high stockings and high heels to fly just days prior to the arrest of the football player.

How do you define indecent exposure?

Sagging pants or a scantily clad man in a woman’s bathing suit and heels? 

New York is the latest state to move toward legalization of same sex marriages. President Obama stated “I believe that gay and lesbian couples deserve the same legal rights as every other couple in this country” but stopped short of endorsing gay marriages.

How do you feel about same sex marriages?            
 

President Obama recently stated that “we are on the path of a recovery…”,but with unemployment on the rise, a housing market reportedly worst than the Great Depression along with a sputtering economy, there is speculation that we are headed toward a double dip recession.

What do you think?

Where do you think the economy is headed? 

New York Congressman Anthony Weiner is now off to treatment after confessing that he sent explicit photos of himself on Twitter, after days of denial. The congressman has to date ignored calls from both sides of the aisle to step down.

While sex and lies are nothing new to politics, how do you feel this scandal will affect Weiner’s ability to govern?

Presidential Hopeful Mitt Romney has joined the GOP chorus asserting that “President Obama has failed America” Political campaign rhetoric or fair assessment?

How would you grade the Obama administration and why?

A federal judge in Virginia has overturned the ban on corporate political campaign contributions. Corporations now have the same rights to donate as you or I have as citizens.

What do you think of the judge’s ruling? How do you think it will affect the political playing field?

President Obama’s plan to invest billions of dollars to spur democracy in the Middle East has received mixed reviews considering the escalating economic concerns here in the US.

Is the cost of democracy in the Middle East more than we can afford at this time?

The close proximity of Osama bin Laden’s compound and Pakistani military facilities has led to speculation that the Pakistani military or its government was either complicit or incompetent.

Considering the billions of U.S. dollars to Pakistan to fight counter-terrorism, some lawmakers have suggested suspending aid. Should the US rethink its relationship with Pakistan or are they too valuable an asset to risk?

The Paul Ryan GOP 2012 budget resolution has come under fire for plans to end Medicare as we know it by turning it into some type of voucher system for Americans under the age of 55, all while slashing taxes for corporations and individuals in the highest tax brackets.

How do you feel about this plan that the GOP has labeled a “Path to Prosperity”?

How does $ 5.69 for a gallon of regular gasoline strike you? Reportedly, that’s what one gas station in Florida is charging.  Gas prices have reportedly soared above the national average in 22 other states. Have we reached the breaking point?

How high will gas prices have to rise before America gets serious about alternative energy of sources?

Low job approval ratings have plagued President Obama over recent weeks, triggering speculation of a possible Presidential nomination challenge from within the Democratic Party.

What do you think is behind the speculation and how do you feel about a challenge to this sitting President from within his own party?

Arizona Senator Jon Kyl recently claimed that 90% of Planned Parenthood’s resources were spent on abortions. The actual number is closer to 3%. He later stated that his remarks were “not intended to be factual.” 

Why do you think Planned Parenthood and abortions are dominating the budget discussions when current law prevents any federal money from being used on abortions?

The birther movement has received rejuvenation from Presidential hopeful Donald Trump.  According to a recent poll, 51% of likely GOP voters believe that President Obama was born in another country and another 21% are not sure.

Why do you think this issue is still drawing traction, long after the Obama campaign released a birth certificate in 2008 indicating he was born in Hawaii?

Arizona’s flat tax proposal has triggered debate of whether a single tax rate would stimulate economic growth or whether it would hurt the poor and working poor, who now in many cases pay little or no taxes.

How do you feel about a single flat tax rate for all working Americans?

President Obama has been criticized by both Democrats and Republicans for his unilateral authorization of engaging U.S. military forces against Libya. Some are calling the President’s decision unconstitutional.

How do you feel about the President’s decision? Should he have consulted with Congress prior to engaging US forces?

Questions of the safety of nuclear plants have surfaced after the recent crisis in Japan. The US has reportedly set aside $18 billion dollars for new nuclear plants and several facilities have applied to extend their licenses.

How do you feel about nuclear energy and how safe would you feel living near a nuclear plant?

Republican Senator John McCain has called for the imposition of a no-fly zone over Libya which would require the bombing of Libyan air defenses. A recent poll has revealed that support for the U.S. having a leading or major role in solving international problems has diminished.

In light of escalating unrest in Libya and throughout the Middle East, should the U.S. get involved militarily in Libya?

College basketball junkies are gearing up for March Madness, the NCAA tournament that generates billions of dollars for the NCAA and member schools.

Should student athletes be compensated for their efforts and receive what many perceive as their fair share of the pie?

Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker’s budget measure that would eliminate collective bargaining rights for most public employee unions has outraged the thousands that continue to protest at the statehouse.

Does the Governor’s measure go too far? Could budget concessions be accomplished without the elimination of collective bargaining?

Leftist, right winger, liberal, conservative, progressive? The list of political labels and their evolving definitions continue to grow with each political season.

How do you define yourself politically and why?

Egyptian Protesters crowded the streets by the thousands bound and determined for political change. Mission accomplished, Mubarak’s thirty year reign is over.

What would it take for Americans to organize and demand real political and economic change here in this country?

Key members of the ruling party of Egypt, including President Mubarak’s once heir apparent son have now resigned. Secretary of State Clinton has warned of a perfect storm in the Middle East, if Egypt fails to institute democratic reforms swiftly.

Should Mubarak remain in place during the transition or should he step down immediately?

The call for political reform and the resignation of long time U.S. ally Egyptian President Mubarak by protesters has placed the United States in a difficult and sensitive position in light of the turbulent civil unrest.

How should the U.S. respond to the present state of turmoil in Egypt?

President Obama, in the aftermath of the Tucson massacre, has urged us all to “pause for a moment and make sure that we are talking with each other in a way that heals, not a way that wounds.”

How do you think the tone of political discourse will be affected by this horrific event?

Get ready, experts have put us on notice that the cost of gas is expected to increase and could reach as high as $5.00 a gallon. Ouch!

How will higher gas prices affect your travel plans this year?

Gas prices heading up from 3 dollars: wwlp.com

Unemployment benefits have just been extended to 2 million out of work Americans. With the total number of unemployed at an all time high and the clock ticking on continued extended benefits, jobs should be priority one for America in 2011.

How should we go about the task of creating jobs?

President Obama’s recent compromise with Republicans that would extend the Bush tax cuts for all Americans in exchange for an extension of the unemployment benefits has resulted in rejection from Democrats. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi indicated that Democrats will fight to alter the proposed plan.

How do you feel about the Tax Cut Deal?

WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange has outraged the U. S. and foreign leaders again after his recent release of State Department classified documents.

Should the Obama administration pursue prosecution of Assange under an obscure 1917 Espionage Act as suggested by some or should it instead focus its efforts on improving security measures to decrease the possibility of any future breaches? 
 

The situation on the Korean peninsula has reportedly escalated to the brink of war. President Obama has stated that US support for South Korea is unshakable.

Should the State Department’s pledge of a “measured and unified response” include US military engagement in Korea?

Airline passengers have become increasingly frustrated and in some cases have refused the new full body scans and enhanced pat downs due to privacy and health concerns.

How do you feel about the use of body scanners versus pat downs in airports and do you feel more secure with these procedures in place?

Federal Emergency Unemployment Compensation benefits are scheduled to expire November 30th, which can provide up to a total of 53 weeks of benefits for qualified individuals.
 
How do you feel about the need for Congress to extend these benefits to the millions of unemployed workers? 

Republicans brought home major victories in the 2010 midterm elections. Exit polling revealed low Democratic turnout, especially among young voters that supported the President in 2008.

What do you think was the cause of the low turnout and what message do you think voters are sending to Washington?

The issue of jobs is of great concern, especially to the approximately 15 million unemployed Americans. The ratio of the unemployed seeking work to jobs available is roughly 5 to 1.

What do you think needs to happen to put the vast majority of these Americans back to work?

This year’s negative political ads are often not just misleading but in some cases vicious and personal, now account for 60% of all campaign ads according to watchdog and industry estimates.

How do you feel about this increased use of political attack ads?

Recently the “Too Big to Fail” financial institutions made headlines with questionable foreclosure procedures. While the White House is opposed to a nationwide moratorium on home foreclosures, Attorney Generals in all 50 states have launched an investigation.

What actions do you think should be taken to deal with this foreclosure crisis?

Mayor Bloomberg and Governor Paterson are proposing a ban of the purchase of sugary drinks with food stamps in the city of New York in an attempt to fight obesity.

Does this proposal unfairly single out low income residents? Has government gone too far? What do you think?

Social Security reform has come to the forefront of the midterm elections as some Republicans have expressed support of some sort of privatization. President Obama has vowed to fight any efforts to privatize Social Security.

How do you feel about privatizing Social Security?

President Obama condemned Iranian President Ahmadinejad’s comments alleging that some segments within the US Government played a part in the 9/11 attacks.

What do you think? Should this latest barrage of inflammatory comments affect the U.N. Security Council’s offer to enter into negotiations with Tehran?

Tea Party backed candidates have garnered a lot of attention recently with major primary victories in New York, Delaware, Nevada, Alaska and Kentucky.

How do you think these successes will affect the direction of the Republican Party and upcoming midterm elections?

Religious tensions continue to escalate over the on again, off again threats of Quran burnings associated with the proposed Islamic Center near Ground Zero that have now triggered violent protests worldwide.

What do you think is the root of this resurgence of Islamophobia nine years after the attacks of 9/11?

President Obama recently declared an end to combat missions in Iraq.

Considering the loss of more than 4400 lives along with approximately $700 billion spent over seven years and the fact that there were no weapons of mass destruction, in hindsight, was the war in Iraq worth the cost?

Tensions are mounting between the Democrats and Republicans over the Bush tax cuts.  

How do you feel about allowing the Bush tax cuts to expire at the end of the year, and will raising taxes on the rich slow down the economy even more as some have suggested?

Recent comments by President Obama defending and then somewhat retracting his support of a proposed Islamic Center and Mosque in New York has drawn the ire of critics from both the right and left.

How do you feel about the prolonged controversy surrounding the center?

Less than three months away from the midterm elections, Former Virginia Governor Doug Wilder has shifted the focus to 2012 by suggesting that President Obama dump Joe Biden in favor of Hillary Clinton?

How do you feel about a VP shake-up in 2012?

Leading Republicans have called for a review and possible repeal of the 14th amendment in an effort to deny birthright citizenship to children of undocumented immigrants.

How do you feel about proceedings to review the 14th amendment?

A day before the Arizona immigration law was scheduled to take effect – a federal judge granted an injunction against some of the most controversial parts of the law.

What do you think? Do you agree with the judge’s decision?
 

Virginia Democratic Senator Webb has called for an end to affirmative action diversity programs suggesting that these programs have marginalized and disadvantaged struggling whites.

How do you feel about the need for continued affirmative action programs in America?

According to a recent poll, only 45% of voters approve of the President’s performance. 
 
Do you think President Obama has been effective as a leader and will the midterm elections be a referendum on the President?    

RNC Chairman Michael Steele has taken a lot of heat for suggesting that the war in Afghanistan cannot be won.

Do you agree with his contention? How would you define success in Afghanistan?

House Minority Leader John Boehner recently suggested raising the Social Security retirement age to 70 years old.

What do you think about increasing the Social Security retirement age by five years? 

Utah Senator Orrin Hatch recently proposed legislation that would require people receiving unemployment benefits to be tested for drug use.

What do you think?  Should those seeking unemployment benefits be subjected to drug testing?

There has been a lot of discussion surrounding the viability of a boycott of British Petroleum.

How do you feel about a boycott of BP?    

California has joined an increasing number of states that now have some form of open primaries that do not require voters to be affiliated with a political party to vote for partisan candidates.

Do you favor the open primary system or should voters have to declare an affiliation in order to vote in a primary? 

Recent polls indicate that President Obama’s approval rating has declined in the midst of the BP Gulf oil crisis.

How would you rate the President’s overall job performance?

A proposal to build a Mosque and Muslim cultural center near Ground Zero has sparked opposition from a September 11th victims’ group and the Tea Party.

What do you think? Is the opposition justified? 

The Obama administration has faced a flurry of criticism regarding BP’s handling of the spillage in the Gulf.

Who do you think should be held accountable, BP or the President?   

Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan is receiving a mix of criticism and praise from both Republicans and Democrats.  

What do you think? How do you feel about a nominee that lacks judicial experience?

The Obama administration recently expressed support of a repeal of the moratorium on offshore drilling along the East Coast.

In light of the horrific Gulf Coast oil spill, should we permanently ban the expansion of offshore drilling?

One year removed from consideration for the Olympics, Chicago leaders are divided over suggestions to bring in the National Guard to combat the city’s growing violence.

Should the National Guard be used to fight crime on city streets? 

The Governor of Arizona signed an immigration reform bill that has sparked much controversy and characterized by the President as being “misguided.”

Do you agree with the Governor’s decision? What do you think about the bill? 

A recent Gallup Poll revealed that 50% of registered voters feel that President Obama does not deserve re-election.

Based on performance, do you think President Obama deserves a second term?

Virginia Governor Bob McDonnell recently acknowledged that the omission of slavery from his proclamation declaring Confederate History Month was a mistake.  

Does his amendment to include slavery give credence to the celebration of the Confederacy?

Allegations of sexual abuse and cover up continue to plague the Roman Catholic Church.

Do you think the Church’s response was adequate? If not, what actions should be taken by the Church?

Sarah Palin recently proclaimed the Republican Party as the party of “Hell No.”
     
Do you think this strategy of opposition and obstruction will benefit the Republicans in the November elections?

Health care reform has been a long and drawn out process. 

What do you think of the outcome? What will it mean for the President and the country? 

Discussions in Washington concerning immigration reform have sparked controversy on the proposal of a national worker ID card.  

What do you think about a mandate that would require all American workers to have a biometric identification card? 
 

In today’s record unemployment, finding a job is no easy feat. Several states may ease the process with a ban against credit checks on job applicants. 
Should a job seeker’s credit history or credit score be used to determine their eligibility for hire?    

In addition to body scanners, TSA screeners will be allowed to randomly swab airport passengers’ hands for detection of explosives.

Do you think this procedure can be implemented without discrimination or profiling?

Questions are being raised on whether the census should include those that are incarcerated. 

Should inmates be counted in the census? If counted, should the census register them under their prison address or their home community? 

Toyota, the world’s largest automaker is facing multiple lawsuits due to massive recalls for acceleration and braking problems.

What will Toyota have to do to regain consumer confidence?

There is mounting opposition to Attorney General Eric Holder’s decision to try the 9/11 terror suspects in civilian court opposed to a military tribunal.

Should the trial of the 9/11 terror suspects be held in a civilian court or in a military tribunal?

Partisan politics and bickering have nearly brought Capitol Hill to a screeching halt.

What needs to happen to get Democrats and Republicans to govern in a bipartisan manner?

The question of providing merit pay and added incentives for effective classroom teachers has many lawmakers and teacher unions on opposing ends. 

Do you think performance based incentives for teachers will improve student achievement?  

We just celebrated the birthday of Dr. King and it's obvious that we have a long way to go in race relations, with racially insensitive comments coming from both the right and left.
 
What actions do you think should be taken in an effort to improve race relations and unite our country?

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid stated during the 2008 presidential campaign that Barack Obama could win because of his “light-skinned” appearance and speaking “with no Negro dialect, unless he wanted to have one,” according to sources. 

How do you feel about this comment and what exactly is a Negro dialect?

New Hampshire became the fifth state in the U.S. to allow same sex marriage with the District of Columbia expected to be next.

Do you believe marriage is a civil right for gays and lesbians?

Federal officials imposed new restrictions and heightened screenings that will likely lengthen lines at airports and change the routine of air travel after the recent failed terror attack on a US airliner.

Will these changes affect your plans and willingness to fly aboard US commercial airlines?

During an interview, President Obama gave himself “a good solid B- plus” for his first year in office.

Do you agree? How would you grade the President?  

Five college age students from Northern Virginia were arrested last week in Pakistan, suspected of seeking training in jihad from an al-Qaeda linked terrorist group.

Do you think the threat of homegrown terrorism is on the rise in the United States?

President Obama has announced his decision to deploy 30,000 additional troops to Afghanistan.

Should we be sending more troops? Is the President’s timetable for withdrawal of troops by 2011 realistic?  

A Virginia couple crashed the first State Dinner of the Obama administration and actually shook hands and took pictures with the President. 

Should the failure to follow basic security procedures by the Secret Service cause us to question our homeland security as a whole?

A county in central Virginia plans to offer high school students an elective class on the Bible next year. The issue has sparked controversy on both sides of the matter. The question has been raised whether the course can be taught free of religious indoctrination and bias.   
 
Should the Bible be taught in public schools? What do you think?

The Fort Hood shootings were a horrible tragedy. Although it remains unclear how this could have happened, there is growing speculation that the incident was a terrorist attack.

Do you think the incident was an act of terrorism or the act of a deranged gunman? 
 

Gubernatorial elections were held last week in NJ and VA along with a congressional race in New York. Both parties declared victory even in the midst of significant losses.

What message do you think was being sent to both the Republican and Democratic Parties?

A recent Gallup poll reveals that only 56% of Americans believe that a solution to America’s race problems will be worked out, roughly the same as reported in 1964.

Do you think race relations will always be an issue in the United States and why?

Reportedly, after months of taking incoming fire from Fox News, the White House fired back with negative criticism.

Do you think the White House crossed the line?

There is growing support calling for a moratorium on executions in the state of Texas, sparked by recent reports that an innocent man may have been executed.    

What do you think about a moratorium on the death penalty?

The State of Arizona recently passed a law that allows taking a concealed weapon into a bar, providing it’s not prohibited by the establishment.   

Would you patronize a bar that allows guns?

In the state of New York there is a mandate for all health care workers to take the H1N1 flu vaccine. There are other states considering the same requirement.   

How would you react if your employer mandated that you to take the flu vaccine? 

Recently at the G-20 Summit in Pittsburgh, protesters were reportedly dispersed by officers using pepper spray and sonic weapons known to be used in US military operations. 

Should local law enforcement be allowed to use military weaponry against protesters?

Rep. Joe Wilson refuses to render an apology on the House floor for his comment during the President’s address to Congress last week.

What action do you think should be taken for not publicly apologizing to Congress?

The CEO of Richmond Virginia’s SPCA accidentally left her dog in a hot car, where the dog later died after several hours. Emotions are mixed with some feeling that the CEO should resign.

What action, if any, do you think should be taken?    

During several of the Town Hall meetings for health care reform, those wishing to exercise their Second Amendment right to bear arms have been in attendance with handguns and  assault rifles.

 
While no incidents were reported, does possession of weapons in this type of setting post a potential threat?          
 

An Australian court ruled that a 49-year old quadriplegic should not be administered food and water against his wishes. The patient is fed though a tube in his stomach. The ruling set a legal precedent in Australia.  
Should a patient be given the legal choice to administer their own treatment even if it includes death?     

President Obama has been in office for 200 days. Based on the country’s present global and economic conditions, how would you rate his performance?

A 2004 Gallup Poll revealed that 67% of  African Americans and 63% of Hispanic Americans feel racial profiling is widespread in traffic stops compared to 50% of White Americans.  

Have you ever been a victim of racial profiling? Share your experiences here with the Tanya Free community.

Last week the FBI busted an organ trafficking ring; an alleged 10 year scheme involved in the buying and selling of kidneys for transplants. While it is illegal under federal law for anyone to buy or sell organs for transplant, there is support to change the law to permit a system of regulated compensation for donor kidneys. What do you think?

Should a person be allowed to buy or sell their organs for a transplant? 

First the students, now there is a growing trend requiring teachers to abide by a dress code.  

Should teachers be required to adhere to a dress code?

Airlines are doing it - now ambulance providers.  A provider in Kansas is charging more for its services to patients that are overweight. 

Should companies be allowed to charge extra because of weight?         
 

Alaska Governor Sarah Palin announced her resignation. The eighteen month early departure has sparked much speculation and many questions.

What do you think about Governor Palin’s decision to step down from office?    

Health care reform is a complex issue that has the current administration seeking support to make it happen. While many agree that reform is necessary, there is much disagreement on how to revamp the system.

How would you design the health care system to make it fair to everyone?     

The civil unrest in Iran has been in the media since the country’s recent presidential election.  President Obama has refrained from taking a stance with either side despite the fact some US congressional leaders would like the President to lend support to the Iranian protesters.

Should the President intervene in support of the protesters?
 

Late night host David Letterman made controversial jokes about Sarah Palin and a member of her family. Palin found the jokes to be offensive and inappropriate. Letterman later apologized, but protesters are calling for Letterman to be fired.  What do you think?

Should Letterman be given a pink slip?

Supreme Court Nominee Judge Sonia Sotomayor has been quoted as saying “I would hope that a wise Latina woman with the richness of her experiences would, more often than not, reach a better conclusion,” and added "than a white male who hasn't lived that life." This comment has sparked accusations of racism from critics.

 Do you find this comment to be racist?

Last week, the California Supreme Court upheld Prop 8 that bans same sex marriages.The ruling comes on the heels of several states that recently allowed same sex marriages. The controversial issue is being challenged on a state by state basis. What do you think?

Should same sex couples have the right to get married?           

A 13-year old cancer patient and his parents elected to discontinue conventional medical care and opted for holistic treatment until a court order intervened.

Should a court be allowed to override a parent’s plan of care for their child?
 

President Obama delivered the commencement address at Arizona State University followed by him giving one at Notre Dame. The President received an honorary degree from Notre Dame but his achievement failed to merit an honorary degree from Arizona State University. 

Should Arizona State University have honored the President with a meritorious degree?  

New York has resurrected a twelve year old law that allows public homeless shelters to charge those staying at the shelter a portion of their income.

Do you think a person should have to pay to stay at a shelter?

A legislative hearing was held recently to address the reform of the current federal cocaine sentencing structure that fails to appropriately reflect the differences and  similarites between crack and powder cocaine. Reports indicate that it takes 100 times more powder cocaine to cause the same harsh mandatory minimum sentence as crack cocaine.

Do you think the law should be reformed?

The American auto industry is on the verge of collapse. GM announced it will no longer manufacture its Pontiac brand.Do you think this is the beginning of the demise of the American automobile industry?

President Obama has been in office for three months. Has he kept his campaign promises? How do you think the President is doing so far?

Purchasing a gun, depending on the state, can be as easy as buying a cup of coffee. Should there be universal requirements such as background checks, psychological testing or a waiting period prior to purchase?

President Obama requested support from NATO allies for the U.S. led war in Afghanistan during the recent G20 summit in London. European leaders offered limited aid for civilians and training for Afghan police and soldiers but would not commit to significant combat troops.     

Should the U.S. commit more troops for combat in Afghanistan?

Should marijuana be decriminalized?

After public outrage over the $165 million in AIG bonuses, CEO Edward Liddy asked bonus recipients to return at least half of what they received. Voluntarily, some actually agreed to return 100 percent of the money. During an investigation, New York Attorney General Andrew Cuomo reports 9 of the top 10 bonus recipients returned the money – a recovery of about $50 million. A drop in the bucket considering $115 million remains outstanding.     

Should AIG request the bonuses be returned? Would you return the money?

AIG awarding $165 million in bonuses has ignited public outrage. How can the failing Wall Street giant - AIG and others like Citigroup and Bank of America award bonuses and other perks, and continuously, at the expense of the American taxpayers?

The President accepts responsibility stating "the buck stops with [him]." And in essence, it's his job to fix it.

What should the President do to fix it?  

During a joint address to Congress a few weeks ago, the President announced that "...95 percent of working households in America will receive a tax cut, a tax cut that you will see in your paychecks beginning on April 1." Good news for 95 percent of us and hopefully good for the economy.

How do you plan to stimulate the economy with your cut?

On Tuesday, the President gave a joint session address to members of Congress speaking on a host of issues - jobs,tax relief, the financial system, healthcare reform and education to name a few. After the President's speech, Republican Governor Bobby Jindal, of Louisiana, gave the GOP response,keeping with party principles. Assessment by the media and pundits are in, but what the American people think is what really counts.

So, good or bad what do you think of the President's speech and that of the GOP's response?

A cartoon that appeared in the Wednesday February 18th edition of theNew York Post has sparked a lot of controversy. The caption makes reference to a stimulus bill with a caricature of violent imagery along with questionable racial undertones. Civil rights groups have called for an apology and are planning a protest.

Do you think the cartoon is inappropriate?

Brett Favre announced Wednesday, yes-you guessed it, his retirement. A call or play, depending on how you look at it, the quarterback made eleven months ago that led to a long and drawn out Brett Favre saga.

Will Favre really retire this time or will the saga continue? 

Wednesday, President Obama placed a $500,000 salary limit for corporate executives of companies that receive government bailout funds. On average, the executive's compensation range well in the millions.

Do you think the $500,000 cap is to low, or too high?

The maker of the Beanie Babies is promoting two dolls with name likeness of the First Daughters Malia and Sasha. The company denies the dolls are modeled after the First Family's two daughters though the dolls bear the names Marvelous Malia and Sweet Sasha. A spokesperson for Mrs. Obama stated "it is inappropriate to use young private citizens for marketing purposes."

Do you think the company crossed the line? 

Timothy Geithner, President Obama's pick for Treasury Secretary, appeared before the Senate Finance Committee on Wednesday. Geithner faced questions regarding his failure to pay $34,000 in self-employment taxes between 2001 and 2004. Geithner apologized for what he called "careless, avoidable and unintentional errors." 

Do you think Geithner should be confirmed as Treasury Secretary, which includes oversight of the IRS?   

President Bush gave his final press conference on Monday - summing up the last eight years of his presidency.  For a president who seldom held press conferences and interviews, he is suddenly all over the TV.  Larry King on Tuesday night and a farewell address to the nation at 8pm tonight on network TV. 

Will you be watching? Whether you do or not, what do you think the President should say to the American people?  

Having a job in this troubled economy is a blessing. Across the country, companies are struggling to stay afloat. In Fayette County, Georgia there is a prosposal to cut salaries in exchange for additional time off.

How much of a pay cut would you be willing to accept in order to keep your job?

Former NFL quarterback Michael Vick, who is currently serving a 23 month prison sentence for his role in a dog fighting operation, could be moved to a halfway house in January.  He is scheduled to be released from federal custody by the summer of 2009.

Should the once football star be given a second chance to play in the NFL?

The Twilight Zone!

On Tuesday the Governor of Illinois,Rod Blagojevich,was arrested for federal corruption charges. Charges that allleged the Governor attempted to sell the President elect's former Senate seat. The scandal, according to U.S. Attorney Patrick Fitzgerald "...has taken us to a new low" one that "...would make Lincoln roll over in his grave."  Without skipping a beat, the Governor returned to work with full governing authority with the power to name a replacement or appoint himself to the vacant Senate seat if he desires. 

Are we in the Twilight Zone- where corruption in our government is rampant and it is business as usual? 

The uncertainty of our economy is officially being labeled a recession and has been since last year.The current condition of our financial institutions,auto industry  and hundreds of layoffs each week,compared to economic conditions last year are far more devastating.

Are we on the brink of a Depression?

There is a lot of media buzz about President Elect Barack Obama's cabinet selections, which includes many familiar faces that served in President Clinton's administration. Somewhat of a fresh pick, Senator Hillary Clinton is being considered for Secretary of State and is receiving a lot of media attention. Although it appears the hatchet has been buried between the two,everyone is not convinced.

What do you think about Hillary being selected for Secretary of State?

America has spoken and the next president of the United States - President Elect Barack Obama. Congratulations America, for turning the page and making history that unites us as one people. And,together we stand with President Elect Barack Obama to restore opportunity and prosperity in America for all Americans.

How Do You Feel About It? 

Republican vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin appeared out of nowhere and onto the national scene, drawing larger crowds than running mate John McCain. After several interviews and her apparent inability to clearly define the duties of the vice president on at least four different occasions, it is crystal clear to me that Sarah Palin does not possess the skills,qualifications or experience necessary to be second or first in command if the circumstance arises. In my opinion, this is a direct reflection of John McCain's judgment and what we could expect if he is elected.

What was John McCain thinking? Was he simply picking a female for the "wow factor" or was it designed to appeal to the Hillary faithful,or to recruit the bubba vote?  

After three debates and less then 19 days before one of the most critical elections ever, there are still many undecided voters.

Why are there so many undecided voters? 

 The presidential election has gotten very ugly, adding to the already high tensions over our failing economy and financial crisis. 

What does it say about a candidate that engages in such cheap despicable attacks? 

Check out  this week's Tanya's Tips at the left entitled CHANGE !

Many tuned in for the presidential and vice presidential debates.

Which presidential candidate is ready to fix the mess our country is in, if elected?

The President outlined a plan to bail out Wall Street from all of its financial bad debt.  

Should the government be in the business of bailing out Wall Street with our taxpayer dollars?

Sarah Palin’s pregnant teenage daughter has sparked discussion about the teen pregnancy epidemic.

Which approach is most effective in addressing the issue, sex education curriculums or abstinence programs?    

Now that the Democratic and Republican conventions are over and each of the presidential candidates has had an opportunity to speak to the American people - the question which candidate addressed the real issues that the American people really care about and which candidate as president will make those issues a top priority in January 2009?

We have watched the historic democratic convention and this week John McCain, Sarah Palin and the republicans get their turn. Each party expects a double digit bump in the polls wooing the undecided.

 Undecided voters, what do you need to hear to make a decision?

This past Saturday, Senator Obama chose Senator Joe Biden to be his running mate. There are mixed views on whether the choice is a plus.

What do you think?    

Controversy is brewing around lowering the drinking age from 21 to 18. One side thinks the current law encourages binge drinking and the other side feels it will increase the number of driving fatalities.

What do you think?     

Do you believe John Edwards has a future in politics?