Hey, remember that war? You know, the one with death tolls over 600,000? (washingtonpost.com) The War, which is very much still raging, has seemingly slipped from America’s list of pressing issues. Why is this? What it all comes down to is the fact that the war is being fought in another part of the world. Here in America, we are separated from the real ugliness of it. Also, the truth is that after 9/11 there was an outburst of patriotism. By now, it has sadly seemed to fade. People have replaced their thoughts of the war with the issues that are affecting them on a daily basis.
According to City-Data.com, the most important issue on Americans’ minds is the economy. The bad economy is a problem that is caused by many different factors. The outsourcing of jobs to foreign countries and the lack of jobs available to our college graduates are two examples of problems contributing to the current state of the economy. However, what many people fail to notice is that there is a very strong link between the issues with the economy and the War in Iraq. According to nationalpriorities.org the war is costing us $275 million per day!
For thousands of wives, children, parents, and siblings, the War is still very real and a horror that is impossible to rid from the mind. My brother, a United States Marine, spent a year in Iraq and it is impossible to describe the fear that was present in the minds of my family each and every day until he returned. I know it is impossible to really understand the relevance of this war unless you have some personal stake in it, but for the benefit of the troops still in Iraq and their families, we really need to. As Americans we need to band together and keep supporting our brothers and sisters who are literally risking their lives every day. They at least deserved to be kept in our thoughts, even if the media doesn’t remind us anymore.
Katie Marzzacco '09
Wilkes University
Communication Studies
Monday, March 10, 2008
I'm Young and I Vote
My decision to vote is not a result of MTV’s Rock the Vote, P Diddy’s Vote or Die Campaign, or the fact that the opportunity is present to vote for the first African American or female president…I am voting because I am of age and have peace of mind to do so. For too long I heard from older generations that “young people are not well informed enough to vote.” Youth in itself brings a sense of purity of mind along with an overall good natured outlook towards the world. For this reason, elders may argue that our “happy-go-lucky” mindsets will cause us to overlook serious issues addressed by the candidates which would result in the election of a bad president.
On the other hand, our mindsets give us a great advantage over any other demographic of voters because we have yet to fully develop our opinions on a broad spectrum of political subjects. This open way of thinking allows us to view candidates’ plans and policies with a high level of objectivity. Because our untainted political views, we therefore, are even better evaluators of potential presidents and their policies.
The young voters have a fresh set of issues to contemplate for the future of this country. Voters who have endured elections for the past thirty years or so already have their minds made up on what kind of policies they want to see run this country. It is the perfect time for the young people of this nation to step up and combat the issues which are plaguing us, by voting for the right candidate who will recognize our needs.
David Lewis '10
Wilkes University
Communication Studies/English
On the other hand, our mindsets give us a great advantage over any other demographic of voters because we have yet to fully develop our opinions on a broad spectrum of political subjects. This open way of thinking allows us to view candidates’ plans and policies with a high level of objectivity. Because our untainted political views, we therefore, are even better evaluators of potential presidents and their policies.
The young voters have a fresh set of issues to contemplate for the future of this country. Voters who have endured elections for the past thirty years or so already have their minds made up on what kind of policies they want to see run this country. It is the perfect time for the young people of this nation to step up and combat the issues which are plaguing us, by voting for the right candidate who will recognize our needs.
David Lewis '10
Wilkes University
Communication Studies/English
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Gendered Discourse and Clinton’s Unfortunate Use of Sarcasm in Recent Debates
I write this entry with some sadness. I am a 57 year-old woman who is trained in the practice and analysis of public debate. I also fully appreciate the historic nature of the 2008 presidential campaign, with Hillary Clinton winning a number of Democratic presidential primaries‑something no other woman has done. What makes me sad is witnessing the strategic demise of Senator Clinton’s presidential bid.
Anyone who uses sarcasm and ridicule in the political arena runs the risk of being seen as defensive, harsh and rude. Not surprisingly, when Senator Hillary Clinton used sarcasm in the two February debates against Senator Obama, her rhetorical tone became the meat of media stories and not the substance of her arguments.
In everyday conversation when a person uses ridicule about another’s character, onlookers jump to the defense of the person they see as being unfairly attacked. When Senator Hillary Clinton used sarcasm in the February debates against Senator Barack Obama, she cut away at her own lead, not his. These snide comments may have been intended to show strength; instead they made her appear petty. Senator Hillary Clinton must learn (or be reminded) that both sarcasm and ridicule, as rhetorical tactics in debates, have very sharp edges.
During the February 26th debate from Ohio, she also pushed back at the moderator when asked a tough lead question. She said she always got the tough questions first, and repeated her displeasure about the order of questioning. Most debaters would welcome the opportunity to get lead questions. That’s when she can define the key terms and frame a response to the question that casts the other candidate in the diminished role of a “Me, too” follow-up speaker. Senator Clinton has proven that she can handle tough questions and accusations. So, what was with the little fit about order of questioning? Again, pettiness made her appear defensive and sharp edged, rather than confident about her arguments.
Much has been written and said about her rhetorical “style” and gender in the 2008 campaign. Much will be written in the years ahead. As the sole woman running for a major party nomination, gender is an ever-present constraint for the Clinton campaign. But, constraints are wonderful rhetorical opportunities. For every instance of awkwardness, there is a chance to transform past practices into new traditions. Her closing statement in the Texas debate was wonderful. It was political rhetoric so well crafted that most people listening were moved by her words. In that closing, Senator Clinton seemed comfortable telling a life story that drew people to her as a candidate, as a leader, and as a woman.
Senator Clinton often refers to her 35 years of experience in positions that required advocating on behalf of others in some of the most demanding chambers imaginable. Throughout her career in public service, her rhetorical skills have been refined. She is smart, eloquent, analytical and capable of putting together an argument better than the other candidates. She is a varsity political debater. But underlying every campaign performance is the gender factor. How will SHE perform? How will SHE respond to tough questions and pressure? How will SHE manage her campaign? And, how will SHE convince the American public that she should be President of the U.S.?
She has said she is very mindful of being the sole woman in this presidential race. Yes, the Hillary Clinton campaign is historic because it is plausible. She is close enough to the Democratic nomination and possibly the Presidency that voters like me are sad to see her slipping into the “she ran a strong, but losing campaign” category. If there is another Clinton-Obama debate, I hope Senator Clinton shows up without the sharp edges.
Dr. Jane Elmes-Crahall
Wilkes University
Communication Studies
Anyone who uses sarcasm and ridicule in the political arena runs the risk of being seen as defensive, harsh and rude. Not surprisingly, when Senator Hillary Clinton used sarcasm in the two February debates against Senator Obama, her rhetorical tone became the meat of media stories and not the substance of her arguments.
In everyday conversation when a person uses ridicule about another’s character, onlookers jump to the defense of the person they see as being unfairly attacked. When Senator Hillary Clinton used sarcasm in the February debates against Senator Barack Obama, she cut away at her own lead, not his. These snide comments may have been intended to show strength; instead they made her appear petty. Senator Hillary Clinton must learn (or be reminded) that both sarcasm and ridicule, as rhetorical tactics in debates, have very sharp edges.
During the February 26th debate from Ohio, she also pushed back at the moderator when asked a tough lead question. She said she always got the tough questions first, and repeated her displeasure about the order of questioning. Most debaters would welcome the opportunity to get lead questions. That’s when she can define the key terms and frame a response to the question that casts the other candidate in the diminished role of a “Me, too” follow-up speaker. Senator Clinton has proven that she can handle tough questions and accusations. So, what was with the little fit about order of questioning? Again, pettiness made her appear defensive and sharp edged, rather than confident about her arguments.
Much has been written and said about her rhetorical “style” and gender in the 2008 campaign. Much will be written in the years ahead. As the sole woman running for a major party nomination, gender is an ever-present constraint for the Clinton campaign. But, constraints are wonderful rhetorical opportunities. For every instance of awkwardness, there is a chance to transform past practices into new traditions. Her closing statement in the Texas debate was wonderful. It was political rhetoric so well crafted that most people listening were moved by her words. In that closing, Senator Clinton seemed comfortable telling a life story that drew people to her as a candidate, as a leader, and as a woman.
Senator Clinton often refers to her 35 years of experience in positions that required advocating on behalf of others in some of the most demanding chambers imaginable. Throughout her career in public service, her rhetorical skills have been refined. She is smart, eloquent, analytical and capable of putting together an argument better than the other candidates. She is a varsity political debater. But underlying every campaign performance is the gender factor. How will SHE perform? How will SHE respond to tough questions and pressure? How will SHE manage her campaign? And, how will SHE convince the American public that she should be President of the U.S.?
She has said she is very mindful of being the sole woman in this presidential race. Yes, the Hillary Clinton campaign is historic because it is plausible. She is close enough to the Democratic nomination and possibly the Presidency that voters like me are sad to see her slipping into the “she ran a strong, but losing campaign” category. If there is another Clinton-Obama debate, I hope Senator Clinton shows up without the sharp edges.
Dr. Jane Elmes-Crahall
Wilkes University
Communication Studies
Senators Clinton and Obama Get High Marks for Policies on HIV/AIDS; Republicans Offer Very Little
The War in Iraq, the environment, the economy, and health care are all controversial issues the candidates in the 2008 presidential election are addressing. Thousands have died in Iraq, the economy is steadily declining, and the number of people without health care in this country is staggering. While these are major problems the country faces, these numbers pale in comparison to those affected and infected by the AIDS virus.
After looking at the top two Democratic and top two Republican candidates I was shocked to find out that only the two Democratic candidates have made a substantial effort in the fight against AIDS. Senator Hillary Clinton and Senator Barack Obama are the only two to mention AIDS as one of their issues on their campaign websites. Both Clinton and Obama should be praised for their efforts in the fight against AIDS.
In 2006, Clinton moved to provide better funding for the Ryan White Care Act, which helps lower class families pay for medical care. She also recognized that young people (who are one of the most at risk groups to becoming infected) need to get access to scientific information about HIV and the prevention of AIDS. This would also include educating those people already infected so they can learn how to prevent infecting others. Clinton also stresses the need for testing and lessening the stigma young people have associated with getting tested.
In a statement made at the U.N. Meeting on AIDS, Clinton mentioned her concerns about the global spread of AIDS and the lack of AIDS education. According to the U.N. children in low to middle income countries have little to no knowledge about how to prevent the spread of HIV. She also expressed her concerns on the lack of medical care in these countries, especially dealing with pregnant women who would benefit from treatments that could limit mother-to child transmission.
At the June 2007 debate at Howard University, Clinton expressed her outrage with the White House’s response to the increase in HIV cases in Black Americans, saying. “If HIV/AIDS were the leading cause of death of White women between the ages of 25-34, there would be an outraged outcry in this country.”
Senator Obama has also taken many steps in the fight against AIDS. He has traveled to Kenya to take a public HIV test to encourage testing and to help clear up any negative stereotypes that might linger about testing. He has also pushed for better prevention methods in the global fight against AIDS, which include condom distribution and the introduction of the Microbiade Development Act, which will be used to produce and develop products to help women battle HIV and AIDS.
At the Howard University debate in June, Obama pushed for greater AIDS education for young people saying, “We don’t talk about it in the schools. Sometimes we don’t talk about it in the churches.”
John McCain really surprised me by his lack of knowledge about anything dealing with AIDS. In March 2007, when asked by a reporter what he thought about using taxpayer money to distribute condoms in Africa to help fight HIV, McCain responded by saying he didn’t know the subject well. He also added that he relied on the advice of Senator Tom Coburn, a physician and Republican from Oklahoma. He then went on to say, “I haven’t thought about it. Before I give you an answer, let me think about it. Let me think about it a little bit, because I never got a question about it before. I don’t know if I would use the taxpayer’s money for it.”
In late 2007, Mike Huckabee refused to retract statements he made in 1992 about quarantining AIDS patients to prevent the spread of the disease. He also said “It is the first time in the history of civilization in which the carriers of a genuine plague have not been isolated from the general population, and in which this deadly disease for which there is no cure is being treated as a civil rights issue instead of the true health crises it represents.” Apparently Governor Huckabee failed to get the message that health officials have been saying for years— casual contact is not a way AIDS could be spread.
After carefully examining the top four candidates in this election I would continue to praise Senators Clinton and Obama for not only their efforts in raising awareness and their ideas for combating this deadly disease both in the United States and globally. As for the two Republican candidates, they seem to act as if AIDS isn’t one of the major crises we face in this world. Their lack of knowledge and in the case of Huckabee, compassion, is alarming. How can you make a decision on an issue if you’re not informed on it? How can you be a successful leader if you rely on someone else’s opinions when making decisions on an issue?
Jamie Gibson '08Wilkes University
Communication Studies
Thursday, February 21, 2008
To My Students Who Asked, Why Should I Vote?
It’s a fair question. And, it is a very timely one. My answer will be a direct one, no begging this question.
It is a matter of empowerment, as well as collective power. Empowerment means giving individuals the tools needed to have a positive affect in society. Empowerment can also be cumulative. When one individual feels certain about their knowledge, abilities or actions their behavior spills over and influences others. Voting will empower you, and have a cumulative affect on all of the people around you. But just deciding to register to vote involves some education and analysis. I teach, so I’m all in favor of you educating yourself before taking action.
First, begin following the 2008 campaigns at the national, state and local levels. While the presidential campaigns may capture your interest, you may have more direct political power at the local level. More than any previous generation, you can educate yourself about political campaigns using online social media or traditional media. And, most importantly, you can be part of what is being called the first presidential election that features citizen-generated content. Voter registrations are becoming the best attended events—complete with music— on many college campuses. Why? Because in this election, young voters care and are actively participating. Let your passion about events and problems in society guide you. If you care very deeply about the War in Iraq, saving the environment, making college more affordable, or reforming immigration you can easily find out where the candidates stand on these issues and comment on their web sites or You Tube. And, you can discuss it with your friends. Millions of 18-24 year olds have already voted in the 2008 election and they have made a difference in the outcome and momentum of various campaigns. They can be proud of their role in shaping this election. And, when they vote in November they will be helping shape the future of the nation. When votes become a collective, they can be very powerful.
While the Pennsylvania primary isn’t until April 22, our voters could still play a significant role in determining who the presidential nominees will be. Consider the fact that there are over 1 million state residents in the 18-24 age bracket. Do you realize how much power over 1 million voters could have in the primary?
Sometimes I am asked if one vote matters. The greatest impact of voting may be at the local levels. In the mid-1990’s I had the privilege of serving on the Luzerne County’s Election Board. If you don’t think that one vote matters, consider that we had to toss a coin to settle several local elections—one for the City’s school board. That is a fairly common scenario across the country—a single vote determining the outcome of an election. Direct decision-making at the local level or representative decision-making in a presidential election—democracy only works when you vote.
I know that you have strong, very perceptive opinions on a lot of issues. And, I know you speak up. If you do not vote you will have no voice in the national conversation about who should govern, no voice to advocate for change, no voice to question and probe policy, and no voice to complain when things do not go the way you think they should. Here is your chance to bring your distinctive voice to the 2008 election. Join with millions of other young voters and send a really clear message about how this nation should be governed.
One final thought. Does it concern you that in only 15 years your generation will be leading this nation? Empower yourself. Get ready to lead and vote.
Dr. Jane Elmes-Crahall
Wilkes University
Communication Studies
It is a matter of empowerment, as well as collective power. Empowerment means giving individuals the tools needed to have a positive affect in society. Empowerment can also be cumulative. When one individual feels certain about their knowledge, abilities or actions their behavior spills over and influences others. Voting will empower you, and have a cumulative affect on all of the people around you. But just deciding to register to vote involves some education and analysis. I teach, so I’m all in favor of you educating yourself before taking action.
First, begin following the 2008 campaigns at the national, state and local levels. While the presidential campaigns may capture your interest, you may have more direct political power at the local level. More than any previous generation, you can educate yourself about political campaigns using online social media or traditional media. And, most importantly, you can be part of what is being called the first presidential election that features citizen-generated content. Voter registrations are becoming the best attended events—complete with music— on many college campuses. Why? Because in this election, young voters care and are actively participating. Let your passion about events and problems in society guide you. If you care very deeply about the War in Iraq, saving the environment, making college more affordable, or reforming immigration you can easily find out where the candidates stand on these issues and comment on their web sites or You Tube. And, you can discuss it with your friends. Millions of 18-24 year olds have already voted in the 2008 election and they have made a difference in the outcome and momentum of various campaigns. They can be proud of their role in shaping this election. And, when they vote in November they will be helping shape the future of the nation. When votes become a collective, they can be very powerful.
While the Pennsylvania primary isn’t until April 22, our voters could still play a significant role in determining who the presidential nominees will be. Consider the fact that there are over 1 million state residents in the 18-24 age bracket. Do you realize how much power over 1 million voters could have in the primary?
Sometimes I am asked if one vote matters. The greatest impact of voting may be at the local levels. In the mid-1990’s I had the privilege of serving on the Luzerne County’s Election Board. If you don’t think that one vote matters, consider that we had to toss a coin to settle several local elections—one for the City’s school board. That is a fairly common scenario across the country—a single vote determining the outcome of an election. Direct decision-making at the local level or representative decision-making in a presidential election—democracy only works when you vote.
I know that you have strong, very perceptive opinions on a lot of issues. And, I know you speak up. If you do not vote you will have no voice in the national conversation about who should govern, no voice to advocate for change, no voice to question and probe policy, and no voice to complain when things do not go the way you think they should. Here is your chance to bring your distinctive voice to the 2008 election. Join with millions of other young voters and send a really clear message about how this nation should be governed.
One final thought. Does it concern you that in only 15 years your generation will be leading this nation? Empower yourself. Get ready to lead and vote.
Dr. Jane Elmes-Crahall
Wilkes University
Communication Studies
My Experience as a First Time Voter
The American electorate is now one person stronger. Consider me part of the “youth-quake”, rocking the 2008 Campaign. I am a first time voter. There, I said it. But getting to this point required introspection. I had to ask questions and research in order to choose which party I wanted to register as.
Where can I pick up a registration form? How do I know which Party to be in? Which candidate am I most likely to vote for? These are just a few of the many questions I asked myself when deciding to register to vote for the first time. I felt overwhelmed with all the questions I had in my head about the registering process.
I decided to vote this year because it is the first time in my life I am following the presidential campaign. I am attending a Controlling Spin class which focuses on politics and the media. This sparked my interest in our nation’s government and the president’s role in all of it. I became more aware of my country in less than two months than I have in the past nineteen years.
As a first time voter, I am expecting to face a few challenges of my own. I have to catch up on the key issues of our country’s concern and create my own opinions about them. After creating my own opinions, which I’m still in the process of doing, I will then explore the candidates’ opinions and their plans of action to enhance our nation.
Another challenge I had to face when registering to vote for the first time was deciding on which Party to choose. I consider myself an Independent, but I really want to vote in the Pennsylvania Primary, so I had to select a Party. I called my Dad because I was having trouble deciding. He is a registered Republican and my Mom is a registered Independent. I never considered myself a hardcore liberal or a hardcore conservative, so I chose the one I felt I best fit under.
As a first time voter, I am excited to be a part of something much larger than I am used to. I feel that I can make a difference in the world by being able to follow politics and voice my opinions about issues. Furthermore, I can influence who will be the next president, which can change America. Although it is a small difference, it will mean something for future generations.
Amy Fusco '10
Wilkes University
Communications Studies
Where can I pick up a registration form? How do I know which Party to be in? Which candidate am I most likely to vote for? These are just a few of the many questions I asked myself when deciding to register to vote for the first time. I felt overwhelmed with all the questions I had in my head about the registering process.
I decided to vote this year because it is the first time in my life I am following the presidential campaign. I am attending a Controlling Spin class which focuses on politics and the media. This sparked my interest in our nation’s government and the president’s role in all of it. I became more aware of my country in less than two months than I have in the past nineteen years.
As a first time voter, I am expecting to face a few challenges of my own. I have to catch up on the key issues of our country’s concern and create my own opinions about them. After creating my own opinions, which I’m still in the process of doing, I will then explore the candidates’ opinions and their plans of action to enhance our nation.
Another challenge I had to face when registering to vote for the first time was deciding on which Party to choose. I consider myself an Independent, but I really want to vote in the Pennsylvania Primary, so I had to select a Party. I called my Dad because I was having trouble deciding. He is a registered Republican and my Mom is a registered Independent. I never considered myself a hardcore liberal or a hardcore conservative, so I chose the one I felt I best fit under.
As a first time voter, I am excited to be a part of something much larger than I am used to. I feel that I can make a difference in the world by being able to follow politics and voice my opinions about issues. Furthermore, I can influence who will be the next president, which can change America. Although it is a small difference, it will mean something for future generations.
Amy Fusco '10
Wilkes University
Communications Studies
Help for Veterans of Iraqi War
I’m pretty sure if you’re the typical movie going American citizen, you have seen the award winning film, Forrest Gump. Lieutenant Dan, an unforgettable character, gets wounded from a battle deep within the jungles of Vietnam. Eventually it resulted in the loss of his legs. Over the course of the movie’s 142 minutes you saw the dramatic rise and fall of this character as he accepted and then refused a fate he didn’t deserve. What’s particularly sad is that Lt. Dan was a foreshadowing of a harsh reality facing returning troops from Iraq.
More and more, I hear stories of young adults around my age, 22, returning home from Iraq without limbs, with dependencies, suffering from PTS and the worst fate—death. We live in a country that claims to be #1, but we haven’t accepted responsibility for providing help to our modern day veterans.
In 2005, The Washington Post ran an article about a wounded veteran, Robert Loria, who returned from Iraq to find out that the government turned its back on him.
Loria had his hand blown off and could not walk as well. As pain increased significantly throughout his body the last thing that entered his mind was him owing money to the U.S. Army. He was hit with a $6,200 debt after putting his life on the line that would eventually alter his bodily functions forever. When The Washington Post looked into this situation, they found 331 soldiers also dealt with this problem. When military authority higher-ups were questioned, the only response they gave was a computer malfunction was messing up the debts (George, A01).
Along with financial problems and physical complications that arise from this war, some of the worse are long term psychological effects that remain untreated. Since the Vietnam conflict, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) has been a main concern and those who suffer from PTSD experience anxiety, depression, sleeplessness, flashbacks, wariness, and in extreme cases, suicide. One of these extreme cases is Marine Lance Cpl. James Jenkins.
Jenkins was a Marine who survived a fifty-five hour battle with the Mahdi militia in Najaf which would eventually mess him up. After returning home he couldn’t sleep for some time because of the hyper sensitive activity of the war and took up gambling which turned into a major problem and even bigger debts. Soon after Jenkins couldn’t function and would eventually take his life. The reason behind this terrible incident was the lack of medical assistance with PTSD (Dobie).
Everyday the news is awash with political jargon and pseudo promises of a better future for America. We’ve heard “change” and “hope” repeated like an old style vinyl record that’s been overplayed too many times. Yet one topic that hasn’t been touched upon enough in presidential debates is treatment of returning veterans. Why is it that these soldiers who are putting there lives on the line for a better world are being pushed aside?
Shouldn’t the current administration be concerned about offering assistance to men and women, to mothers and fathers, and most of all, to these kids? Maybe they should make sure that all returning veterans get the assistance they need whether it is mental, physical or financial.
Citations:
St. George, Donna. “For Injured U.S. Troops, ‘Financial Friendly Fire’.
Washington Post 14 Oct. 20005:A01.
Dobie, Kathy. “Denial in the Corps.” The Nation. 2008. Truthout Issues. 18 Feb. 2008
Matthew Gobbler '08
Wilkes University
Communications Studies
More and more, I hear stories of young adults around my age, 22, returning home from Iraq without limbs, with dependencies, suffering from PTS and the worst fate—death. We live in a country that claims to be #1, but we haven’t accepted responsibility for providing help to our modern day veterans.
In 2005, The Washington Post ran an article about a wounded veteran, Robert Loria, who returned from Iraq to find out that the government turned its back on him.
Loria had his hand blown off and could not walk as well. As pain increased significantly throughout his body the last thing that entered his mind was him owing money to the U.S. Army. He was hit with a $6,200 debt after putting his life on the line that would eventually alter his bodily functions forever. When The Washington Post looked into this situation, they found 331 soldiers also dealt with this problem. When military authority higher-ups were questioned, the only response they gave was a computer malfunction was messing up the debts (George, A01).
Along with financial problems and physical complications that arise from this war, some of the worse are long term psychological effects that remain untreated. Since the Vietnam conflict, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) has been a main concern and those who suffer from PTSD experience anxiety, depression, sleeplessness, flashbacks, wariness, and in extreme cases, suicide. One of these extreme cases is Marine Lance Cpl. James Jenkins.
Jenkins was a Marine who survived a fifty-five hour battle with the Mahdi militia in Najaf which would eventually mess him up. After returning home he couldn’t sleep for some time because of the hyper sensitive activity of the war and took up gambling which turned into a major problem and even bigger debts. Soon after Jenkins couldn’t function and would eventually take his life. The reason behind this terrible incident was the lack of medical assistance with PTSD (Dobie).
Everyday the news is awash with political jargon and pseudo promises of a better future for America. We’ve heard “change” and “hope” repeated like an old style vinyl record that’s been overplayed too many times. Yet one topic that hasn’t been touched upon enough in presidential debates is treatment of returning veterans. Why is it that these soldiers who are putting there lives on the line for a better world are being pushed aside?
Shouldn’t the current administration be concerned about offering assistance to men and women, to mothers and fathers, and most of all, to these kids? Maybe they should make sure that all returning veterans get the assistance they need whether it is mental, physical or financial.
Citations:
St. George, Donna. “For Injured U.S. Troops, ‘Financial Friendly Fire’.
Washington Post 14 Oct. 20005:A01.
Dobie, Kathy. “Denial in the Corps.” The Nation. 2008. Truthout Issues. 18 Feb. 2008
Matthew Gobbler '08
Wilkes University
Communications Studies
Edwards: Forgotten, but Not Gone
In a Presidential primary season that is overly rich with celebrity endorsements ranging from Oprah Winfrey to Chuck Norris, endorsements have begun to lack any meaning or influence on the campaigns. Even Ted Kennedy’s endorsement of Barack Obama, which was played up by the media for days, was not able to pull a win for Obama in the Massachusetts primary. However, I think there is at least one endorsement left to be given that might have a significant impact in pulling the Democratic Candidates out of the tie they have been stuck in for weeks.
John Edwards left the Presidential race on January 30, 2008 without making an endorsement of either Obama or Clinton. Throughout his campaign, Edwards had a substantial following, which even enabled him to beat out Clinton for a second place finish in Iowa. He received14% of the vote in Florida,18% in South Carolina,17% in New Hampshire, 4% in Nevada, and 30% in Iowa according to cnn.com. Although these percentages are relatively small, in the close race between Obama and Clinton if one candidate were to receive a significant amount of those votes, it would make a difference.
I think it is highly possible that if Edwards did make an endorsement, many of his supporters would follow his decision. The reason is that unlike actors and other political figures, Edwards was actually in the race and had a clear following who wanted to see him as the next President. As a result they have a logical reason to trust his opinion on which remaining candidate will be the best for the job. Also, there is the good chance that if whoever he endorses wins, Edwards will be at the top of the list of possible running mates for that candidate. For Edwards supporters, seeing their candidate as Vice President is better than nothing, so of course they will want to vote the way Edwards suggests they do.
This week it was reported that both Clinton and Obama had secret meetings with with Edwards at his home. This seems to indicate that an Edwards endorsement could come in the very near future. However, as each day goes by the significance of an Edwards endorsement fades. Soon enough the primaries will be over and all Edwards supporters will be committed to a different candidate. Only time will tell what Edwards chooses to do, but I think it is safe to say that he is the most likely choice for either Clinton or Obama as a Vice President. As for what the media has dubbed the “Dream Ticket,” with Clinton and Obama as running mates, it really is just a dream.
Christine Zavaskas '09
Wilkes University
Communcation Studies
John Edwards left the Presidential race on January 30, 2008 without making an endorsement of either Obama or Clinton. Throughout his campaign, Edwards had a substantial following, which even enabled him to beat out Clinton for a second place finish in Iowa. He received14% of the vote in Florida,18% in South Carolina,17% in New Hampshire, 4% in Nevada, and 30% in Iowa according to cnn.com. Although these percentages are relatively small, in the close race between Obama and Clinton if one candidate were to receive a significant amount of those votes, it would make a difference.
I think it is highly possible that if Edwards did make an endorsement, many of his supporters would follow his decision. The reason is that unlike actors and other political figures, Edwards was actually in the race and had a clear following who wanted to see him as the next President. As a result they have a logical reason to trust his opinion on which remaining candidate will be the best for the job. Also, there is the good chance that if whoever he endorses wins, Edwards will be at the top of the list of possible running mates for that candidate. For Edwards supporters, seeing their candidate as Vice President is better than nothing, so of course they will want to vote the way Edwards suggests they do.
This week it was reported that both Clinton and Obama had secret meetings with with Edwards at his home. This seems to indicate that an Edwards endorsement could come in the very near future. However, as each day goes by the significance of an Edwards endorsement fades. Soon enough the primaries will be over and all Edwards supporters will be committed to a different candidate. Only time will tell what Edwards chooses to do, but I think it is safe to say that he is the most likely choice for either Clinton or Obama as a Vice President. As for what the media has dubbed the “Dream Ticket,” with Clinton and Obama as running mates, it really is just a dream.
Christine Zavaskas '09
Wilkes University
Communcation Studies
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