Uppity Wisconsin

It's a little anti-climactic at this point, but with 65% of the vote in, it's a pretty clear victory for Obama and McCain in Wisconsin. McCain won with 54% (so far) and Obama with 57%. There's a live blog on the site below, which you can replay if you so choose.

Thanks to everyone in Wisconsin who voted today, no matter who it was for, and thanks to everyone who participated in the live blog and who comes here on a regular basis.

As I'm sure you've noticed from all of the various posts - today is primary day in Wisconsin. We voted several hours ago here at Uppity Ranch.  There wasn't a big turnout, but Downsville, WI isn't exactly a big town (at least we have voting booths now - we used to vote by going behind the snow plow for privacy, which one morning prompted my wife to say that the voting booth was coming down the road.  I never understood how we'd vote if there was  a snow storm at the same time).

Anyway, I'm sure we're going to end up with a great Democratic candidate at the end of the day, all griping on the site aside. If you haven't voted, do so. And we'll be trying to bring you updates later in the day once we actually know something.  Early reports say that the turnout has been pretty high in student areas. 

I know some here, and elsewhere, would poo-poo the idea that the person who holds the title of "Most Powerful Person in the World" should have some relevant experience before getting that job.  Some of those people would even write emotional articles directed at me to shout down my arguments- I'm flattered guys.  They use rhetoric, irrelevant historical blurbs, logical leaps and emotion to promote something that feels good to them.  I think that approach to politics is extremely dangerous.  Frankly, it's not unlike what the neo-cons have done from the other side.  As progressives, we need to have a better approach. 

Back on topic, when we elect a President, we as a people, need to understand what the President's job really is.  First and foremost, it is to keep the nation safe, both from external threats, and internal.  Anybody who seeks that post, in my humble opinion, should have some credentials.  Simply having a vision that feels good isn't enough.  Vision, as wonderful as that is, won't keep me safe.  Would we hire a police chief in our city who has only been a street cop a few years?  Neither should we hire a President that has little or no experience in issues of national security. 

If you're wondering how you can contribute to the presidential contender of your choice, look no further. Contribute to Barack Obama or Hillary Clinton with no problems. Just pick your candidate, and Uppity Wisconsin and Act Blue will do the rest:

Barack Obama

Hillary Clinton

In the wake of John Edwards' withdrawal from the race, Dave Obey today endorsed Barack Obama:

WASHINGTON, D.C. – In response to many questions from private citizens and members of the Press, Wisconsin Seventh District Congressman Dave Obey (D-WI) today issued the following statement:

"For eight long years, in extreme partisanship, George W. Bush has governed this country by dividing it. He has pursued disastrous foreign and domestic policies and has stubbornly refused to listen to anyone’s views except those who march in lockstep with him. America desperately needs a new president who can reach across old barriers to form new alliances that can produce a new era of optimism and a healthier respect for the needs of others. I had originally supported John Edwards for President, but with his withdrawal I am voting for Barack Obama. People will, and should, make their own choices, but I believe that, while both remaining candidates would make outstanding presidents, Senator Obama has the best chance of giving this country the new beginning it so desperately needs."

There has been a recent string of endorsements for Obama in the state, including