The American Spectator : The Cain Train Picks Up Steam

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The Cain Train Picks Up Steam

By Robert Stacy McCain on 5.20.11 @ 6:08AM

The self-described “dark horse” is gaining momentum.

Four years ago at the studios of WSB Radio in Atlanta, I interviewed talk-radio host Herman Cain, who had only recently recovered from cancer. He smiled as he vowed, “Death’s going to have to catch me, and it’s going to have to run fast.”

Cain is smiling more than ever now, and running strong with a Republican presidential campaign that has surged to national prominence since the May 5 debate in Greenville, S.C. In a Fox News focus group of South Carolina GOP voters following that debate, pollster Frank Luntz asked for a show of hands: “How many of you think Herman Cain won the debate?” More than half the participants raised their hands. Luntz was flabbergasted, calling the result “unprecedented.” Luntz then went around the room, asking what it was that made the retired restaurant executive so appealing.

“He’s likeable,” one man said, summarizing a key factor in Cain’s campaign that seems to elude pundits. For the past two weeks, the political intelligentsia has struggled to understand how the former CEO of Godfather’s Pizza, who has never held elective office, could have suddenly emerged as a contender in a crowded Republican 2012 primary field. It’s never been a mystery to Cain’s communication director Ellen Carmichael.

“When people meet Herman, they like Herman,” she explained in a phone interview a few weeks before the Fox News debate in which 2 million viewers met Cain for the first time. And while he had not previously been considered a “first tier” candidate, Cain was already known (and liked) by thousands of Tea Party activists who had cheered him at rallies across the country. He has lately concentrated on meeting Republican voters in early primary states — today he’ll make his 17th visit to Iowa in the past year — and building grassroots support.

“We’re like a family,” Carmichael said of Cain’s tight-knit Atlanta-based organization, which she joined last fall. Since launching a presidential exploratory committee in January, she said, Team Herman has now grown to about 30 paid staffers, a relatively small group for a presidential campaign. Cain’s team is clearly aiming to run a lean-and-mean operation, since they can scarcely expect to match the massive money advantage of GOP rival Mitt Romney, who reportedly raised $10 million in a single day last week. Nevertheless, Cain’s campaign easily topped its initial goal of 1,000 pledges this week for an online “moneybomb” and then immediately raised the goal to 2,500 pledges. This was part of an effort leading up to a noon rally Saturday in Atlanta’s Olympic Centennial Park where the candidate is expected to officially announce his candidacy.

“If you know me, you know what I’m going to announce,” Cain said last night during an interview on KDWN-AM in Las Vegas, where he was one of several guests on the “Defeat Barack Obama” radiothon organized by leading Tea Party activists. Another guest on the show was Minnesota Rep. Michele Bachmann who, like Cain, is a 2012 Republican presidential candidate with strong Tea Party support. As with Cain’s other rivals for the GOP nomination — including Romney, whom he endorsed in 2008 — his campaign has kind words for Bachmann.

“Herman really likes her a lot,” said Carmichael, explaining that the extra media scrutiny Cain gets because he is black translates to “a lot of empathy” for Bachmann, who is currently the only female candidate in the Republican 2012 field. (Former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin continues to say she’s waiting to see how the campaign develops before deciding whether to enter to the race.) Cain has become accustomed to being asked about how race affects his candidacy, although he much prefers to emphasize his business background and “common sense” approach to issues. Yet having a black Republican challenge Obama is an intriguing possibility to pundits, especially considering how often the Democrat incumbent’s supporters have slammed conservative opposition as racist. That led Byron York of the Washington Examiner to speculate that many of Cain’s supporters believe he “could take it to Obama without all that racial baggage.”

That seems to be a factor in Internet news mogul Andrew Breitbart’s enthusiasm for Cain’s campaign. In a speech at the Heritage Foundation last month, Breitbart proposed a GOP ticket of Cain and Florida Rep. Allen West — another black Republican, elected last year with strong Tea Party support — as a direct repudiation of the racism charge. “The only way to defeat political correctness and cultural Marxism and multiculturalism is to aim straight at its head,” Breitbart said.

The odds are still against such a head-on confrontation. Political oddsmakers rate Romney and Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty as front-runners in the current GOP field, and some powerful Republicans are reportedly trying to recruit Indiana Gov. Mitch Daniels into the race. Cain’s impressive showing in the South Carolina debate, however, has clearly given a boost to the Georgia businessman who always smiles when he describes himself as a “dark horse” candidate. He smiles a lot, and if any of the Republican frontrunners expect to beat him — well, they’re going to have to run fast.

About the Author

Robert Stacy McCain is co-author (with Lynn Vincent) of Donkey Cons: Sex, Crime, and Corruption in the Democratic Party (Nelson Current). He blogs at The Other McCain.

Letter to the Editor View all comments (244) | Leave a comment Leave a comment

Bill Hussein O'Stalin| 5.20.11 @ 6:24AM

Herman Cain had better responses than the rest of the field that night.

But the race is just starting.

Alan Brooks| 5.20.11 @ 10:28PM

Yes, and people such as Red Phillips don't much want black guys (or gals) as POTUS- whether they are Republican or not. If Reagan's running mate in 1980 had been a black, the Gipper would have lost.
2012? you tell me, you're the GOP. If you don't fill us in, we can't know the score.

Alan Brooks| 5.20.11 @ 11:12PM

"If you don't fill us in, we can't know the score."

If you don't tell us how many David Dukes there are in America, how can we know if Cain can win?

LEE| 5.22.11 @ 10:00PM

THE HERMINATOR DID NOT, 'SUDDENLY EMERGE'. CONSERVATIVES HAVE ADMIRED CAIN FOR YEARS. HE IS MY CURRENT PICK. I AM CAMPAIGNING FOR HIM.

CAIN/BACHMANN 2012

ANYONE BUT A PHUCKING DEMORAT THUG!

MCCARTHY WAS RIGHT!

IS IT TOO LATE TO PURGE THE COMMUNISTS AND SAVE THE REPUBLIC?

Occam's Tool| 5.22.11 @ 9:25PM

Other than Herman Cain, the following remarks from Ace Of Spades definitely applies to Romney, Gingrich, Paul and Pawlenty:

"Yeah, all campaigns say they are going to tell tough truths. Of course, with Iowa the first stop, I'm guessing "Ethanol subsidies and mandates should go", won't be one of them.

Unless Ryan, Christie or Pence has a sudden and completely improbable change of heart, 2012 is going to involve laying back and thinking of England.

Posted by DrewM. at 06:42 PM New Comments Thingy "

Patrick| 5.21.11 @ 2:58PM

I would have no problem, at this time, in supporting Herman Cain to the exclusion of the current roster. I don't care too much beyond the issues and competence, but the rest looks good too. He has a number of strategic disadvantages to his milquetoast competitors, but he has my vote, so now all he has to do is campaign harder than anyone else...much harder.

Bill A | 5.20.11 @ 6:39AM

The possibility of a Cain candidacy intrigues me.
I first heard Mr. Cain on radio through the Neil Boortz show. I liked the way he spoke, always with respect, and he struck me as having a sharp mind.His lack of political experience may be an asset. There are no other republican candidates that have me overly effusive. The race issue will be played by some. Most people who hear Mr. Cain speak will not like him because of the color of his skin, they will like him for the color of his speech. It is difficult to refute the logic of this man's arguments. As one American to another, go get Herman!

SpiralArchitect| 5.20.11 @ 1:37PM

The operative word used was logic.

Bravo.

Anthony M| 5.20.11 @ 10:20PM

He is very articulate and clean cut and he can really make a pizza, so we should elect him president. There is one primary reason he is finding support and it is the insane affirmative action culture that appears to have taken over a significant portion of the US electorate. This man may be honest, may love his children and get a tear in his eye every time the national anthem is sung, but is that enough? He was an affirmative action junior exec at coke and then stepped into a pizza chain(already established) and made a few bucks, let's make him president. I will make a small prediction, blacks will not vote for a black republican(check Steele's run) and a large number of whites won't go for an affirmative action pick, 4 more years of Obama.

Radioman777| 5.21.11 @ 12:56AM

Your comment ranks as one of the more retarded posted about this article.

Younger Soldier| 5.21.11 @ 4:15AM

I'm not sure about the logic with which you reached that conclusion BUT the bottom line is you're right. I don't think he'll get the party nomination in part because of campaign fundraising and most Republicans won't vote for a Black candidate that doesn't have any political experience. Hell people like Ron Paul but that doesn't mean he's going to be president.

Patrick| 5.21.11 @ 3:02PM

You have little faith in most Republicans then. You are correct about the political experience and fundraising.

As for Ron Paul, he pushed too far on the anti-war theme, at a time when Republicans were at their most defensive.

Thomas Paine| 5.22.11 @ 11:38PM

This is an easy one: If Cain is wise enough to hold sacred the 11th Commandment, he's should be the VP nominee:

- whose campaign job it to attack
- where experience is not as important
- who gets to debate Biden

... and of course his logic, gravitas and skin color will still glaringly contrast with the incumbent President.

Quartermaster| 5.21.11 @ 7:47PM

Godfather's Pizza was on the ropes when Cain took over. He saved it. I'm sure he made a few bucks in the process.

wodiej| 5.23.11 @ 3:46AM

Great comment. Couldn't agree more. He fattened the bottom line of a couple corporations-so what? Does that make him a public servant? Ever won an election? Ever passed or voted on any legislation? Ever done anything in his life of significance that shows servant leadership? The answer to all of this is no.

He supports affirmative action. When 94% of blacks voted for Obama, I have to wonder if he will objectively go after Obama in an election and leave race sympathy out.

He's not been vetted either. Someone makes some great speeches and people go off the rails just like with RINO Christie.

Gov. Sarah Palin has dedicated her life to public service and been very good at it. I'm betting the future of our country on her, not an ex CEO.

Vern Crisler | 5.20.11 @ 6:57AM

I like Cain so far, but don't know much about his policy positions. I wish the writer had gone into that a bit more.

Kevin Cousins| 5.20.11 @ 9:58AM

Vern, the timing of your question could not have been better; go to this link: http://www.wnd.com/?pageId=300741#ixzz1MtlsBCuw

Read, in particular:
* 'The Hermanator' on boosting the economy
* Herman's energy-independent America
* Fix nation's entitlement programs
* Cain's 4-point immigration plan
* Time with the Federal Reserve
* Other important issues
* Will mainstream media vilify Cain?
* Will Republican Party welcome Cain?

Herman Cain's track record for success is quite remarkable, to say the least. He strikes me as one well-endowed with sharp intellect, temperate composure, reasonable common-sense and a resume of incredible accomplishment in the corporate world.

Kevin Cousins| 5.20.11 @ 10:06AM

Cain was also the guy who "sabotaged" Hillarycare back in 1994; see the video here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v.....AF6B28AFE4

cowgirl| 5.20.11 @ 10:24AM

Herman put Bill Clinton into Deer in the Headlights mode during that discussion. Go HERMAN!!!!!!!!!!!

SpiralArchitect| 5.20.11 @ 1:39PM

Cain best be at least as tough as Andrew Jackson if he plans to challenge the FED in any way.

A money making machine accountable to no public entity is very very dangerous.

I like Cain and as of now would certaily vote for him.

Nunya| 5.20.11 @ 5:07PM

Kevin, thanks for the link I hadn't seen it before. Based upon what I read, it looks like Cain is a solid conservative, and being a businessman myself, I LIKE the fact he's not a career politician or a lawyer.

Dai Alanye | 5.20.11 @ 10:49AM

The problem is that Cain has relatively few policy positions at this point. During the debate he often fell back on the "set up a committee" approach, reminiscent of the present occupant of the White House.

I'd vote for him over Obama, of course, as I would almost any Republican except Ron Paul and his mini-me, Gary Johnson. Those two would not only harm the country but the Party as well.

The best place for Cain would be in the VP slot.

Mike Rogers| 5.20.11 @ 11:17AM

Please read his Commonsense Solutions booklet, and you'll see a lot of substance. The only punting was on overseas engagements - most of the insiders get intelligence briefings - he would need to get that input for a firm decision. On the other hand he has a philosophy of "compelling national interest, and only go in to win".
For more policy positions, please see:
http://www.scribd.com/full/547.....0a9wqx7gv4

Occam's Tool| 5.20.11 @ 11:24AM

Thank you, Dai, for putting my position much better than I could. Yup, anyone but Pothead and the Prince of Pork & Archduke of Appeasement.

SpiralArchitect| 5.20.11 @ 1:58PM

True leaders use intel from their appointments and certainly use committees for info to make informed decisions.

Even dictators have sources of information comming to them.

Very thin to say he has no experience.

Example:
One of my dogs could sit in the Senate and vote 'present' repetedly. My other dog would just run around and bark a lot.

Conclusion: Not every dog would make a fine Senator like Obammer.

Thomas Paine| 5.22.11 @ 11:44PM

Tool and Dai -

I think I just heard some RINO's snorting.

If you want to see clear-headed foreign policy non-appeasement, read here:
http://eon.businesswire.com/ne.....9007204/en

Still, I'm confident you'd both pull a Paul/Johnson lever over Obama/Biden....

Mike Rogers| 5.20.11 @ 11:13AM

Please see his "Commonsense Solutions" booklet, here: http://www.scribd.com/full/547.....0a9wqx7gv4

Clint| 5.20.11 @ 7:05AM

There are problems with Herman Cain's positions: For The Bailout Scam, Against Auditing The FED, For Propping Up Big Banking With The "Too Big To Fail" Scam.

Vern Crisler | 5.20.11 @ 7:54AM

Not being a member of the LewRockwell Lune club is probably a good thing for him.

Clint| 5.20.11 @ 10:37AM

Tell Your RINO-CINO Crap to Our Tea Party Sebnator Jim DeMint Of South Carolina, Vern Baby.
Tea Party Senator Jim DeMint is taking the lead on getting an audit of the Federal Reserve in the Senate.
The Senate Democratic leadership has seen fit to block a vote on Jim DeMint adding an amendment to a spending bill that would accomplish an audit of the Fed."

The Tea Party Rebellion Escalates.

Carpe Diem.

Occam's Tool| 5.20.11 @ 11:29AM

Sebnator?

Tim the Enchanter| 5.20.11 @ 11:49AM

Darn right!

Clint| 5.20.11 @ 11:54AM

Ibsreal Firster Asshat, Tool Job !

irish19| 5.20.11 @ 12:07PM

Meds, Timmy. Remember your meds.

Clint| 5.20.11 @ 12:10PM

Shock Treatment, irish 19. Remember You Get Your Shock Treatments on Fridays.

irish19| 5.20.11 @ 12:15PM

Is it beer o'clock already?

Clint| 5.20.11 @ 12:21PM

Get up off The Pub's floor & look for yourself Hops Breath.

irish19| 5.20.11 @ 12:39PM

Timmy, Timmy, Timmy, is "Hops Breath" the best you can do?

Clint| 5.20.11 @ 12:54PM

irish,irish,irish goin' is goin' around fat, drunk & stupid the best ya can do ?

Hmmmmm, Breath Of Ass?

Occam's Tool| 5.20.11 @ 3:32PM

The fabulous Clint has made the rectal reference! He focuses on it so much since proper hygeine of his own is essential in his day job of Terrorist Catamite.

Good to have you on the team, Irish 19.

Clint| 5.20.11 @ 6:12PM

The Israel Firster Neo-Chickenhawk Coward Fanatic Tool Job stays permanently fixated & PMS'y because Our tea Party Senator Dr.Rand Paul & Our tea Party Co-Favorite Dr.Ron Paul & Many of We Tea Party patriots Don't Asskiss Tool Job's personal Israel Firster Fanatic Agenda.

Occam's Tool| 5.21.11 @ 5:17PM

Yeah. terroriist appeasing fecal eating scum do permanently piss me off. Like you, Terrorist Catamite Clint.

Occam's Tool| 5.21.11 @ 5:18PM

See how pissed off I am? I misspelled Terrorist. Got Catamite right, though, since that is well established fact.

irish19| 5.21.11 @ 2:45AM

Thanks. Happy to be here.

irish19| 5.21.11 @ 2:13AM

Sorry to take so long to respond, but I had things to do.
Fat? Regrettably yes, but not so much as previously.
Drunk? From time to time.
Stupid? Sorry Timmy. I confess I'm just the Carolina League to your majors in that respect.

Drunken Sailor| 5.20.11 @ 12:59PM

Don't mind clint, Irish. Apparently he has a thing against different ethnicities and alcohol.

SpiralArchitect| 5.20.11 @ 2:00PM

Audit the FED?

The same group that controls elections in Iran will be in charge, right?

Clint| 5.20.11 @ 6:16PM

Duuuuuuuuhhhhhh !

I'm Part Mick, Swabbie.

Obviously, You Don't Know Me or What The Hell You're Talkin' About.

Occam's Tool| 5.21.11 @ 5:20PM

No, Clint. You are a micropenised cross breed of a neurosyphilitic camel and a leprous armadillo. That's why you are the perfect terrorist catamite.

Quartermaster| 5.21.11 @ 7:54PM

I was not aware of the union required to produce a scrofulous Toad. I have been edumacated.

irish19| 5.21.11 @ 2:14AM

No worries. I know I shouldn't feed the troll, but when he sits up on his haunches like that and begs for it he's just sssssooooooooo cute. And the little flecks of foam around his mouth are positively endearing.

Occam's Tool| 5.20.11 @ 3:30PM

No, Clint. ECT in the US is done thrice weekly, MWF. But it can cause memory loss, which is why you probably forgot.

In all seriousness, it is a superb treatment for people with agonizing, treatment resistant depression, and I have seen it save lives.

Clint| 5.20.11 @ 6:18PM

Then Shock Yourself,You Sad Sack, Pill Pushin' Self Help Sorry Assed Excuse For A Government Shrink.

Michael Tomlinson| 5.21.11 @ 1:03AM

Clint your sad and pathetic person I feel sorry for you and all the self-hate that animates you.

Corey| 5.20.11 @ 10:04AM

You Paulites are trying to spread BS about Cain because he is getting more excitement and support than Ron Paul could ever dream of.

Anyone can do a quite googling of his response, he was against it as soon as the details of the bill were released, he was disgusted like any American would be.... Fear not Paulites, your smears wont derail the Cain Train.

Clint| 5.20.11 @ 10:42AM

Do Your Homework, Sport.

"In 2008 Herman Cain wrote an article in his column about his banking expertise, and how his knowledge in the banking system could help us move in a positive direction. He explained in some detail about nationalizing the banking system. Explaining how taxpayers would all have a piece of the banks, supposedly keeping things more transparent, while collecting dividends etc.."

irish19| 5.20.11 @ 12:08PM

Link, please.

Clint| 5.20.11 @ 12:17PM

Ya Mean, "Drink Please", irish 19.

Do Your Own Homework Ya Lazy Sloth.

Hint: Use Herman's Name & Key Words & Then Google It Yourself, Ya Slovenly Bastard .

irish19| 5.21.11 @ 2:17AM

Actually I meant what I said. You put it out there. It is your responsibility to provide the provenance for the statement.

SpiralArchitect| 5.20.11 @ 2:02PM

Yes, ask for someone else to provide you a link. To copy the first few words & insert into Google would be way out of your league.

LINK, just for you:

http://fromthetrenchesworldrep.....cain-2008-“banks-are-a-good-investment”-–-how-was-that-again-herman/3943

Occam's Tool| 5.20.11 @ 3:34PM

Spiral,

are you supporting Clint here, really? He doesn't do much real reference finding, since he repeats the 1976 Ron quote as his only one on Paul's national defense record. That's because, since 2001, Paul on foreign policy has been indistinguishable from Jimmy Carter.

Occam's Tool| 5.20.11 @ 3:35PM

Irish 19, ask me for a link anytime. I aim to teach when I can, or insult when I must (only Clint and Wisconsin Jack though).

irish19| 5.21.11 @ 2:18AM

Thank you, sir/madam.

Occam's Tool| 5.21.11 @ 5:23PM

I'm a guy, Irish19. Again, you are lots of fun and very polite.

The flecks of foam on Clint's slobbering camel jaws wear thin on me after a while.

Clint| 5.20.11 @ 6:26PM

"Texas Rep. Ron Paul said Tuesday that he was delighted to hear of the death of Osama bin Laden.

The Texas Republican, and potential Republican presidential candidate, discussed the killing of bin Laden on The Diane Rehm Show, saying he is “still looking for more information” concerning the details of the killing.

"Mr. Paul said he supported the killing of bin Laden, adding that he voted for the authority to go after those responsible for 9/11."

"On October 10, 2001, Congressman Ron Paul led the effort in Congress to give President Bush the tools he needed to capture, dead or alive, Osama bin Laden and the other terrorists responsible for September 11th. Dr. Paul introduced on that day H.R. 3076 - The September 11 Marque and Reprisal Act of 2001.

If passed, that legislation would have given President Bush an additional weapon against bin Laden. If Dr. Paul's legislation had passed in 2001, it is likely bin Laden would not have been around until May of 2011."

irish19| 5.21.11 @ 2:22AM

Letters of marque??!! Now that brings a real tingle to my leg and other parts. I would welcome the Congress granting such a thing to say a private security firm that wanted to go after pirates. Although I'm not entirely sure that letters of marque would apply in the case of pirates it still brings pleasant thoughts. Anybody know anything about the legal issues that might be involved here?

Quartermaster| 5.21.11 @ 8:06PM

The specific Language is found in Article 1 Section 8 of the US Constitution which enumerates the powers of Congress. The specific language is,

"To declare War, grant Letters of Marque and Reprisal, and make Rules concerning Captures on Land and Water;"

As with declaring war, only Congress can issue letters of mark and reprisal, but never have to my knowledge. It would make sense in the case of Somali Pirates, and I'm sure Xe/Blackwater, would be glad to receive such. It wouldn't be a bad idea to issue such against Al Qaeda and its minions anywhere they can be found. set teh rewards high enough, and the world would be crawling with people going after them.

For those who do not understand what a Letter of Marque and Reprisal is, it's like a scene in Jerry Pournelle's "High Justice" where a big mouthed idiot tries to force his way into a proceeding and an insurance adjuster offers 500 Francs to the man that cold cocks said loud mouth. Privateers that were commissioned to go after Pirates during the "Golden Age of Piracy" were recipients of such letters. Others were used to augment the Royal Navy during recurrent wars with Spain.

irish19| 5.22.11 @ 3:44PM

"Others were used to augment the Royal Navy during recurrent wars with Spain."
That is the instance I am thinking of. I am not certain whether or not the letters have to be issued against agents/shipping of a particular actual country, or not. In the case of Somali pirates, and also al Quaeda, there really isn't a country involved. Hence the question.
Privateers going after pirates would work, but I was not aware that letters of marque were issued in those cases. If so, then never mind about the first part of the post.
Occam,
Thanks for the kind words.

Len| 5.20.11 @ 11:05AM

I'm sorry, so you believe like Cain that the congress may re-delegate authority to private citizens? That the constitution authorizes the congress to grant monopoly privileges in any business, such as in banking and money?

The federal reserve system, and I include fractional reserve banking, allows bankers to socialize their risks and losses, while privatizing their gains, this is not capitalism, it's not the free market where competition ensures the soundness of money, and I think it's insane to enforce by law fraudulent practices wherein banks "loan" you money they don't even have, as is done through fractional reserve banking.

You may call it a smear to express concerns about Cain, but I frankly believe that you are either naive, or don't understand economics very well, and probably unaware of just how involved bankers have been with our government, how they used the government to force a currency on the Philippines that forced them to give up gold and silver for less than their value, and that we have done the same in other countries.

I am also frankly concerned about a man who potentially will swear an oath to uphold the US constitution, but yet believes that the congress may act as it has in regard to the Federal Reserve, that as the practice of the day when the US constitution was created was that unless specifically authorized fiduciary agents were not free to re-delegate authority.

Has Cain to this point shown some deep grasp of the US constitution, or has it been the typical "limited government, national defense, free market" statement that fails in specifics.

If you have any desire to learn something about money and the FED, or are willing to consider examining something that may make you more informed and capable I offer the following books in PDF. They are both concise and easy reads at the same time.

http://mises.org/books/whathasgovernmentdone.pdf

http://mises.org/books/fed.pdf

Josh2005| 5.20.11 @ 1:39PM

Len, are you one of those Sovereign Citizen, "Redemptionist" people who thinks that money doesn't exist anymore and we all have imaginary "Strawman" accounts at the U.S. Treasury? Because most of the nuts who promote that garbage are in jail. Your mortgage still exists, and you can't get your house for free by sending your bank a "Bonded Promissory Note" that you made yourself on your computer. Thanks.

SpiralArchitect| 5.20.11 @ 2:07PM

We are stuck with the FED. If they are disolved ( never happen as long as the Dollar is the World Currency) the USA would become a fat ZERO.

The evil FED is the reason the Dollar has remained the world currency.

If we had a machine that could simply manufacture gold we would still be on the gold standard. We did the next best thing.

Evil and deceptive, of course. The FED is what has kept the US above the sewer rats of the world with all of our corruption unchecked in our Gov.

Like it or not, there is truth to what I speak.

Len| 5.20.11 @ 2:16PM

If we had a machine that could simply manufacture gold we would still be on the gold standard.

Huh??

There is no need to create more gold, and not even a need to create more money. If gold becomes more of a scarcity, then less of it is needed to be used in exchange, and this can go on ad infinitum, everything else being finite. Or at least until something else comes along that also can serve as money.

This is one of the problems discussing money and the FED, far too many don't properly understand money, and fall for fallacies like there not being enough gold to serve as money.

Thomas Paine| 5.23.11 @ 12:12AM

You are correct on your economics. In grad school, they told us the consensus on gold was it's main problem: Sticky wages. More stuff with same gold is sound money, but requires falling prices -- including the price of labor, wages.

People hate that, so you need to "let out the slack" in money supply in pace with real increases in production, keeping prices even.

Many also advocate the position that "A little inflation is a good thing" because it erodes real wages for those who don't get raises -- thus allowing real wages in some jobs to fall without that nominal cuts.

Out.

Len| 5.20.11 @ 2:08PM

Josh, what mortgage, some us plan better than that and don't allow ourselves to get in a trap paying interest for years on years.

Real money Josh is something that is the result of labor and has value to people. Typically a commodity such as gold or silver that is fungible, divisible, and not quickly perishable (tobacco and salt have both been used as money). It works because people freely choose to value it and use it for exchange, and thus it's value is determined in the free market, just like any other product should be, not by some decree saying it is worth this amount today and that tomorrow.

In a free market there is no need for fiat money, and the coinage power placed in the US constitution was placed there because STATE governments were issuing bills of credit, not private actors, so I would also argue that is constitutionally permissible for the people to choose their own money, and let the federal government do the same, and see what really leads to monetary stability.

Hey maybe now you can go find someone else to mock because of your economic illiteracy or I guess just wait for me to comment again. You might be better served by actually taking a position in regard to money and banking and at least trying to make a cogent argument, rather than sniping at people who know more than you.

loulou| 5.20.11 @ 10:59AM

Cain's main problem is that he is soft on illegal immigration.

Prester John| 5.20.11 @ 11:32AM

That is not true. He has repeatedly said that he would secure the borders, enforce current law, keep the current "path to citizenship", and let states do what the feds cannot or will not do.

Sharon| 5.20.11 @ 12:04PM

Someone has misinformed you. Herman Cain has a very tough illegal immigration policy. He has stated over and over again, "NO new laws." He states that we must secure our borders... that we already have an immigration system and people can use that one if they want to be a citizen... and as for what to do with the ones who are already here? He says leave it up to the states... Allow them to do what the federal govt. won't do... like Arizona. I am not sure how that could be considered squishy.

Kishego| 5.20.11 @ 1:44PM

I beg to differ. I've heard his positions on it during a television interview, and all I could do was cheer because it all made so much common sense.

Bulgaricus| 5.20.11 @ 7:10AM

I'm writing in Cain & Palin. All the rest of the rep. candidates can go pound sand as far as I'm concerned.

mike daniels| 5.20.11 @ 10:04AM

Cain, Palin, Bachman, Gingrich.... get real people- none of them will gain the confidence and vote of middle of the road Americans. Cain is unknown and as inexperienced as Obama in actually running anything, Palin inspires frenzied animosity and sounds like a hick school teacher, besides what exactly are her qualifications?? A couple years as governor of a state with a population the size of Rochester NY? and she didn't even see that out!, Bachman??? attractive, articulate but a light weight and certainly not a leader (and we need a leader), Newt???? come on, he speaks in indecipherable paragraphs, has the charisma of an arm chair and has a personal history that comes tabloid ready. I'm frustrated. There is no one looming that appears electable. Romney- rino rino rino, Daniels... maybe. at least he has executive experience, Ron Paul- wacko, Rick Perry....hmmm nice looking, articulate, great track record, appears to not be afraid to take tough stands.. but not in the race. How about Wisconsin's Scott Walker? He backed down the union mafia and hasn't apologized yet. It's all very depressing...

Drunken Sailor| 5.20.11 @ 10:36AM

Take a anti depressant and get back in the game. You will never find a "Perfect" canidate so look for the one you agree the most with. And enough of the doom and gloom, the we can't win attitude. As my Grandpa used to tell me, "Can't never could do nothing"

elixelx| 5.20.11 @ 12:10PM

So you want a non-RINO, tough as teak social Conservative with the intellectual heft to take barry on in debate: one steeped in foreign, domestic and economic policy nous; one who is versed in all Barry's flim-flam! Clean, respectable, vetted...Hmmm...you must mean VICTOR DAVIS HANSON!
Hanson/Palin 2012

Bob K.| 5.20.11 @ 11:43PM

VDH is a Democrat unless he recently changed over. But if he didn't I'm all for him taking on Obama in the Primary.

irish19| 5.21.11 @ 12:56PM

That would be sweet! Hanson would mop the floor with zero in a debate.

Occam's Tool| 5.21.11 @ 5:24PM

He may be a Dem, but he talks like a Conservative.

Kishego| 5.20.11 @ 1:48PM

I must disagree with you as well. I would love to see Herman Cain in a heads up debate with Obama. Mr. Cain would eat his lunch and it would be so fun to watch. I've been watching this guy speak and I'm telling you he is SHARP.

SpiralArchitect| 5.20.11 @ 2:12PM

Quite sharp.

PhilTheCapitalistPig| 5.20.11 @ 4:37PM

Razor.

OhioGuy| 5.20.11 @ 1:54PM

"Cain is unknown and as inexperienced as Obama in actually running anything,"

You're kidding, right Mike?

Herman Cain graduated from Morehouse College in 1967 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in mathematics and received a Master of Arts degree in computer science from Purdue University in 1971, while he was also working full-time in ballistics for the U.S. Department of the Navy.

After completing his master's degree from Purdue, Cain left the Department of the Navy and began working for The Coca-Cola Company as a business analyst.

In 1977, he joined Pillsbury where he rose to the position of vice president by the early 1980s. He left his executive post to work for Burger King – a Pillsbury subsidiary at the time – managing 400 stores in the Philadelphia area. Under Cain's leadership, his region went from the least profitable for Burger King to the most profitable in three years.

This prompted Pillsbury to appoint him president and CEO of Godfather's Pizza, another of their then-subsidiaries. Within 14 months, Cain had returned Godfather's to profitability. In 1988, Cain and a group of investors bought Godfather's from Pillsbury.

Cain continued as CEO until 1996, when he resigned to become CEO of the National Restaurant Association – a trade group and lobby organization for the restaurant industry – where he had previously been chairman concurrently with his role at Godfather's.

Cain became a member of the board of directors to the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City in 1992 and served as its chairman from January 1995 to August 1996, when he resigned to become active in national politics.

Rossignol| 5.20.11 @ 2:09PM

As far as being "unknown" at this early stage, I really don't see that as necessarily a bad thing. How well known were Obama in May 2007, Clinton in May 1991, Carter in May '75?

What I see as more important is the degree that Herman Cain resonates with the relatively few that do know of him at this point. As 2012 approaches and the Republican field comes into focus, he'll become more well known and most likely will gain serious momentum to his campaign.

At this early stage I won't go so far as to say that he's my only choice in the '12 primary, but he definitely moved into my top tier of current choices in a fairly short period of time.

Patrick| 5.21.11 @ 3:09PM

Actually, for the elites of the Left, Obama was immaculated in '06. Hillary was the favorite of the yeoman level. We all know who wins in that competition in that party...

PhilTheCapitalistPig| 5.20.11 @ 4:28PM

"Cain is unknown and as inexperienced as Obama in actually running anything"

Insert foot in mouth.

Herman, if you took the time to learn anything about him, has worked his way up the ladder like a REAL AMERICAN to becoming CEO of Godfather's pizza. But obviously, you're just a RACIST!!! hahahaha!

"here i am, rock you like a Herman Cain!"

CAIN 2012!!!!

Nunya| 5.20.11 @ 5:18PM

Phil--LOL!! "...rock you like a Herman Cain!"

Hilarious!

Anthony M| 5.20.11 @ 10:27PM

Unless we are willing to vote for Cain we a racists? Worked his way up the ladder? Have you ever heard of "affirmative action"? Maybe you're blind support of a candidate with Negro ancestors makes you a racist.

Radioman777| 5.21.11 @ 1:03AM

You seem to be one of the very few focusing on race around here. It seems your opinions make you an idiot.

Anthony M| 5.21.11 @ 9:19AM

Here you call me an idiot and above you say I'm retarded(which is in inexcusable slur), your rhetorical skills are that of a NYC public school valedictorian and I'm sure you are quite successful in your career at either the DMV or the Justice Dept.

Radioman777| 5.22.11 @ 12:51PM

Your conclusions about me are incorrect, as are most anything else you've written. Furthermore, I don't hold your opinions in much regard. Your statements paint you as a one-dimensional being with a lot of anger, rather than someone able engage in logical analysis. I merely used the same type of rhetoric you used in your postings. As I suspected, you didn't like it much. Your writing style and opinions are more akin to the stuff seen on Daily Kos or HuffPo, as opposed to what should have a passing semblance to reasoned differences of opinion.

Occam's Tool| 5.20.11 @ 3:37PM

Bulgaricus---if Bolton, Bachmann, or West get nominated, do consider them, as their positions are much like the two you've named.

Appleby| 5.20.11 @ 7:16AM

I dont think we can spare the time to train another new guy -- and voting for Cain because he too is Black is just the same song, second verse.

I do not know at this early date for whom I will vote. It will not be any retread such as Romney, and I will not vote for race or gender. I am waiting for a Reagan.

Or Armageddon.

PJ| 5.20.11 @ 8:51AM

How about Gov Rick Perry? I'm not too sure if he's a Reagan but He certainly has lots of executive experience w/ a personality (compared to Daniels & Pawlenty) & he's not too hard on the eyes. He has an electable track record from a huge state.

I haven't heard any major corruption associated with his administration. The Texan economy is booming compared to the rest of the country. He strikes me as a conservative & he's not timid.

I would like to see Perry toss in his hat unless the Texan posters tell me he's a schmuck!

J From Texas | 5.20.11 @ 9:14AM

Perry is a good gov. Prez. I don't think so, too much of the "ol' buddy" network.

David T| 5.20.11 @ 9:15AM

Perry has flat-out said numerous times he won't run, for what that's worth. I agree he'd be a formidable candidate, especially with Herman Cain as his running mate.

Lighthouse4| 5.20.11 @ 9:29AM

I think Perry would be a great President, especially compared to what we currently have in the White House. He has had to (and is still having to) make some tough decisions about budget cuts, which of course is rubbing some people the wrong way. However, Perry continues to take the plunge with no concern for his popularity, knowing he will upset some of his constituents, his main concern seems to be the health of the state. We could certainly use someone like him in the White House. I, for one, think Perry is a strong leader.

sanjuro| 5.20.11 @ 9:45AM

Perry's not a smuck, I like and supported him but he did make some serious errors that'll come back again (as they did in the last Governor election) such as pushing hard for the Trans Texas Corridor. That's water under the bridge but folks here still get p.o.'d if you bring up that subject.
Only Herman Cain stirs my blood, the others are pretty much warmed over country club republicans who'll blow whichever way they think will make them more acceptable to the MSM. Newt's recent little stunt is a perfect example.

Radioman777| 5.20.11 @ 10:03AM

I guess being the CEO of a major corporation doesn't count as "executive experience" in your book. Obviously you're the type that stands around and watches a house burn down because the right kind of fire truck might not show up.

PJ| 5.20.11 @ 10:28AM

Executives of any corporation are not elected by a 1 vote/person electorate. They are answerable only to the Board.

Perry has an election-winning track record in a very large state with a diverse population. As much as I like Herman Cain & his thinking, I want Obama out & I'm not willing to take a chance on an untried individual when there is so much at stake in 2012.

Radioman777| 5.21.11 @ 1:07AM

At the rate Zero is going, a dead dog will beat him in 2012. Perry isn't without flaws -- The Trans-Texas Corridor and mandatory HPV vaccinations come to mind.

Corey| 5.20.11 @ 10:05AM

Cain will be the next Reagan... Reagan had no political experience when he ran for Governor of Cali.

David| 5.20.11 @ 10:23AM

You dont count President of the Screen Actors Guild as political experience?

Drunken Sailor| 5.20.11 @ 10:38AM

Nope, I count that as head zoo keeper.

Occam's Tool| 5.20.11 @ 11:26AM

DS,

no, gotta disagree. Head of radioactive leper colony, more like.

Drunken Sailor| 5.20.11 @ 11:31AM

I stand corrected. Nice mental image.

Occam's Tool| 5.20.11 @ 3:37PM

Thanks! Have a great weekend!

BA Cyclone| 5.20.11 @ 1:06PM

Hmm, that sounds a little bit like being President of the National Restaurant Association.

BA Cyclone| 5.20.11 @ 1:11PM

Comparing Cain's resume as "needing training" to the present occupant of the White House is serious FAIL on your part.

Herman Cain is no "community organizer".

Red Bubba| 5.20.11 @ 7:21AM

I'd like to do a side-by-side comparison of Cain and West.

Corey| 5.20.11 @ 10:06AM

West was just elected to the House, give him time there and he will be ready. Herman has a life time of executive experience, he is ready today.

irish19| 5.20.11 @ 12:14PM

Agreed. We have a very strong bench/farm system.
But we have to hold it together until they're ready. If none of the POTUS candidates excite, we need to concentrate our energies on the House/Senate races. More conservatives there will limit the damage zero and his minions can cause if he is re-elected.

axbucxdu| 5.20.11 @ 1:27PM

The fault tolerant strategy. Congratulations. However, I would recommend voting for zero to keep all that new conservative energy concentrated.

Result? Gridlock, and a return to the halcyon days of do-nothing government. The first step must be to stop digging the hole. In 2016, we'll begin filling it back in.

irish19| 5.22.11 @ 3:49PM

An interesting concept-voting for zero to keep up the skeer so to speak.
We are definitely on the same page in that we need to stop digging before we can start with the backfilling.

Old Soldier| 5.20.11 @ 7:27AM

I like Cain also. I like his background, I like his message, and I like the way he delivers it.

JimH| 5.20.11 @ 8:25AM

If Cain gains traction, one thing he will see from the left are the health Nazis coming after him for pushing unhealthy soda and pizza on America’s youth. Of course if you are on the left you can grow tobacco like Al Gore without a complaint.

Patrick| 5.21.11 @ 3:14PM

All the more reason to support him. Eco-tards, PETA-nuts, and health-Nazis are a triumvirate of irritation and voting the other way out of spite.

Radioman777| 5.22.11 @ 11:18PM

I think it's pretty amusing that the left is dead set against smoking tobacco, but apparently other substances are just fine.

Poetry Man| 5.20.11 @ 8:35AM

Cain has a very funny story he tells about his supporters in black churches. He says very often after he's given a speech, someone will come up to him and whisper, "I think you're absolutely right. I agree with everything you're saying." And he whispers back to them, "Then why are you whispering?"

I think Cain should run with Senator Lamar Alexander of Tennessee. Alexander was great friends with Alex Haley and would feel completely comfortable in the role. Also he would be the experienced and respected Washington hand to go with the neophyte outsider.

Prester John| 5.20.11 @ 8:54AM

Cain's positions:
Pro-life--check
Simplify the tax system--check
Secure the border and enforce current immigration law--check
Strong military--check
Get government out of the way of business--check
Use domestic energy sources--check
Foreign policy--needs to start laying out his goals and how he will achieve them
Will surround himself with experts who know the issues--check
Knows how to make decisions--check
Executive experience--check
Takes the race issue off the table--check
Can speak without a telepromter and not say "uh" 40 times as he arranges his thoughts--check

Herman Cain with one of the the Haleys--Haley Barbour or Nikki Haley

Maxwell| 5.20.11 @ 9:13AM

I just have one question, will he appoint conseratives to the Unites States Supreme Court and the lower courts too? Then your check list is complete!

Patrick| 5.21.11 @ 3:17PM

That's always a crap-shoot on the Right. Lefties have it easier since most lawyers are raging lefties themselves.

Pecos Pete| 5.20.11 @ 9:26AM

Herman Cain--check
Allen West for VP--check

Wayne | 5.20.11 @ 12:10PM

or verse visa

walter| 5.20.11 @ 10:14AM

Uh you forget that Cain is also against gay "marriage"...which is very good and a big CHECK

Louis Jenkins| 5.20.11 @ 9:14AM

Cain, from all aspects of his current political speech line, is a good candidate. Let's continue to listen to what he has to say, and slowly make up our minds.

Corey| 5.20.11 @ 10:07AM

I've been listening to Cain on the radio for years now, I have a pretty good understanding of the man by now.. You go ahead and take your time.

J From Texas | 5.20.11 @ 9:17AM

I've known about Mr. Cain for a least a year now. Everything so far has cleared my high goals as a fiscal conservative. Still, I'll hold until things heat up and the MSM gets thru with their dirt digging.

JimW9| 5.20.11 @ 9:37AM

Cain has the "it" factor that no one else in either the Republican or Democrat field has - including Obama, whose "hope and change" magic is long gone and everyone has pretty much gotten past the "first black president" issue.

Cain's powerful speaking ability, physical presence and his sharp wit dominate the field. As mentioned in the article he also comes across as very likeable.

I will take ANY Republican candidate against Obama but Cain projects in the media age far better than anyone. Did you notice how Michele Bachmann, in her appearance in the New Hampshire presidential candidate forum, kept looking down reading from her notes and did not make much eye contact with either the audience or the camera? Not good. She also did not rehearse her post state of the union address properly and was looking off-camera during that presentation. She needs to straighten out that issue pronto if she wants to do well in debates. Thankfully, she is terrific in front of live audience rallies.

Back to Cain the writer touched upon the critical issue - money! Cain simply may not have enough time to build the financial strength he needs.

The Dems, including the lamestreamers as well as the politicians and Soros and labor activist groups, are already making hay with the Ryan Medicare plan. Dick Morris, after first backing the Ryan plan is now opposed to it. He claims that Ryan is including the $500 billion in Medicare cuts after claiming that he would not do so. Morris believes this is political suicide.

If he is right, Republicans, including Cain, had better reassess their support of the Ryan plan by taking Abraham Lincoln's advice - politicians make a fatal mistake when they get out ahead of public opinion. That is why he waited until he had a Union victory at Antietam to come out in favor of emancipation. And then he carefully crafted and limited his proclamation.

The sad reality is that the left controls the mass media - in spite of talk radio and the internet - and we see with the grandma-over-the-cliff ads that they have no moral compunctions whatsoever to demagogue the issue to the fullest extent possible with complete immunity and cover by the media.

Republicans simply don't have the media voice to shape the issues in this environment and need to be extremely cautious, despite the fiscal soundness of their approach, in navigating public opinion.

Nothing sells like fear and Obama and his party are more than glad to exploit this fact to the max. Hopefully the Republicans can continue their push toward fiscal sanity without giving the demagogues too much ammo.

Bruce| 5.20.11 @ 9:49AM

I really liked what I heard from Cain during the debate. As far as a campaign by Rick Perry, I think it would be doomed due to being so close to the last Texan in office. It would be too easy to paint him as just another Texas "uneducated hick."

OhioGuy| 5.20.11 @ 4:37PM

Don't fall into the trap of how the opposition will paint our nominee. It's doesn't matter and it won't make any difference who is nominated, they will still attempt to portray him/her as stupid, corrupt, heartless etc. That's been their pattern since Stevenson vs. Eisenhower. All Republicans are "dumb" to their POV, by definition, because only Liberals are smart.

Remember, Bush had an MBA from Yale (and a better GPA than Gore) but that didn't stop the charges of him being stupid.

Michael Tomlinson| 5.21.11 @ 1:12AM

Too many conservatives let the MSM media shape their impressions of politicians. Even sadder on some big issues it is frightening to see how quickly they flip. A recent poll had the vast majorit of self-identified Tea Partiers supporting Obama's non-plan for Medicare reform.

The Big E| 5.20.11 @ 9:53AM

I remember posting early on in the "campaign" that I liked Herman Cain, I just wasn't sure whether he could win. Well, the more I hear from him, the more I like what I'm hearing.

I was concerned early on about his complete lack of experience in elective office, but he has almost completely dispelled my concerns. There's certainly a lot of things that he does not know about electoral politics and the job of President, but he appears to me to be smart enough to know that he doesn't know everything. THAT is a refreshing trait in our current climate. The current occupant of the Oval Office certainly isn't that smart. He's so "educated," so certain that he knows everything already, that he he's incapable of learning from mistakes, incapable of listening to anyone who disagrees with him. There are few things in all the world as dangerous as a man who does not know what he doesn't know. Herman Cain appears to me to know what it is he doesn't know, and to have the sense to find people who do. Another refreshing trait.

Since he's smart enough to know what he doesn't know, he's naturally comfortable around people, and confident in the way he presents himself. This makes him an effective - and convincing - communicator. Mitt Romney (for example) is smooth, but in a well trained, can-talk-all-day-without-saying-anything sort of way. If you don't agree with him on an issue, he tries to smooth talk you into believing that his position is actually the same as yours. Herman Cain, on the other hand, is CONVINCING. If you don't agree with him on an issue, he tries to explain to you why you should. Romney communicates like someone applying for (and desperate for) a job, telling you why he's a good fit for your organization, even if he's not. Cain communicates like a leader.

The last President we elected who had no prior elective experience was Ike, and he worked out pretty well. Aside from Reagan, the folks we've had since then, the ones who have all had experience in elective office . . . well, not so much. Everyone knows our country is in a hell of a mess right now, but the fact is that mess cannot be attributed to one President, or even one party. It is a mess that has been brewing for nearly a century. The reality is that, aside from Ike, we've had a century of professional politicians hold the office, and most of those have left things more screwed up then they found them. That's just not a good track record.

My one remaining concern about him is whether he can win the general. I have no doubt he'll up the floor with Obama in any debate, and easily win the war of words and ideas. But the left is going to hammer him of his prior business experience. Their stock in trade is class warfare, and Cain's background is in business. Aside from the color of his skin, he could be a poster boy for all the left's prejudices and petty jealousies, and they will hit him hard in those areas. Also, I wonder whether he will have the support of the RNC. Sure, they'll give lip-service backing, but hey, it's not his turn! And he's not one of them! Will they sincerely back him if he's the nominee? Or will the subtly torpedo his candidacy? Sometimes, it seems to me that the only thing conservative about the RNC is their desire to conserve the power of the ruling class - even if that means keeping Democrats in power. I really hate to say things like that, but based upon their track record, I can draw no other conclusion.

So for right now, Cain's my guy. I'm not saying that there's no one out there who might change my mind later, if they get in, but frankly, he's set a pretty high bar in my mind. He's someone I can vote for, as opposed to being someone who's only qualification is that he is not who I desire to vote against. He's smart, conservative, has tons of executive experience, communicates and defends his positions effectively, and is a leader.

Yep. I can support that.

Nunya| 5.20.11 @ 5:35PM

Well said, E. Nicely put.

mantei | 5.20.11 @ 10:04AM

Herman Cain is the real deal, that focus group was not an isolated incident. When you hear Cain, you love him. Social conservatives, fiscal conservatives, TEA party folks, all fans of common sense can and will unite behind him.

YeloStalyn| 5.20.11 @ 10:12AM

Herman Cain's answer to foreign policy is EXACTLY what we need... someone who says through other speeches and topics, "Here are my morals, my foundations, my guiding principles" and then says to a question in which he (and rightly so along with everyone else NOT privy to info in the WH) has no right to make a delcaritive statement of policy right now BUT knows how to reach the right answer when given all the necissary tools to do so (information).
He said he wants out of the wars in the Middle East. But he isn't going to say something now that he may not truely back later once he gets more info in terms of HOW or WHEN to get out. His answer was EXACTLY what we need to have a leader say: This is how I will reach a conlcusion.

Right now, we have no idea how that schmuck in the WH reaches a conclusion. Dart board? Evil intentions? Flip of a coin? There's no consistancy, no transparency, no method only madness.

As for his experience... George Washington wasn't a politician. Neither was Eisenhower. They may have been involved in politics... but aren't many of you? The American idea is not that our Elites lead, but that the Common Man is just as able. It does not take experience to be a good president. It takes honesty, constitution, fortitude, thick skin, and intelligence. It is these things the current POTUS lacks that makes him a poor choice... not a lack of experience. I am tired of the right using a lack of experience as the reason for Obama's failures. To do so only limits our ability to later choose the best man for the job because he may not have been a govorner prior. If one wants to look at experience... then it must be as a whole, not just political. In that regard a CEO and head of a number of business oganizations has far more experience than a man who's whole working career can be summed up as having worked a "made up" job (community organizer... really? Who was his employer? What credintials did he have to hold that "posititon"?).

Herman Cain does need to explain a few things. Let's be honest. I would like to hear him speak about statements he's made about the Fed and about the bailouts. Both I would wager, if he were asked, would provide a very suffecient answer. Baring those two issues... I am TOTALY in Cains camp.

SpiralArchitect| 5.20.11 @ 2:52PM

Right now, we have no idea how that schmuck in the WH reaches a conclusion.

Obummer has a very precise plan for the decomposition of the USA. As I see, everything goes (mostly, as I do not know his exact plan) as planned.

Look at what he and his minnions repetedly promote and agree on.

The FCC to limit the net and, my personal favorite, Clinton agrees to the UN small arm ban. No saying we will review or we will get back to you or jump in the lake. She just all out agrees to the plan, yea, who needs a legeslative branch of Gov.

Doctor Right| 5.20.11 @ 10:14AM

"Political oddsmakers rate Romney and Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty as front-runners in the current GOP field, and some powerful Republicans are reportedly trying to recruit Indiana Gov. Mitch Daniels into the race."

The same old crap being shoveled by the same old GOP hacks.

Pssssst...GOP elites...Neither Romney, nor Pawlenty, nor Daniels will be the nominee...

cowgirl| 5.20.11 @ 10:23AM

Go HERMAN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! THE NEXT RONALD REAGAN and boy do we need one now more than ever!!! Go HERMAN!!!!

PhilTheCapitalistPig| 5.20.11 @ 4:36PM

Amen, Sister!

irish19| 5.22.11 @ 3:55PM

PREACH IT!! Can I have an AMEN?!

irish19| 5.22.11 @ 3:56PM

"Can I have an AMEN?!" Ooops! I just got one. Sorry, Phil.

Joe R| 5.20.11 @ 10:46AM

So far, Herman Cain is just Steve Forbes for the new millenium even if he does have considerably more charisma. I'm a long way from convinced about his candidacy.

Old Soldier| 5.20.11 @ 2:27PM

Sounds good to me. Imagine if we had nominated Forbes instead of Bob Dole or George Bush...

Clint| 5.20.11 @ 10:49AM

Be Careful.

"Herman Cain believed, and still does, that the Fed can take care of all Americas problems. Look around you people, how’s it working out for you so far? The tax payers are on the hook for all of America’s debt. Why, because of the unconstitutional Federal Reserve printed $trillions that didn’t exist, sticking us with the bill."

Wayne | 5.20.11 @ 12:08PM

It is something that needs to come out in the debates. At least he needs to accept the need for transparency and audits.

Drunken Sailor| 5.20.11 @ 1:02PM

Actually he wants the Fed to go back the way it was in the 90's before they started all this intervention crap. In no way, shape or form did he imply that the fed is the answer to all our problems.

Clint| 5.20.11 @ 6:31PM

Do Your Homework .

"He ( Herman Cain) went on to explain his expertise with the Federal Reserve and how eventually printing $billions and later $trillions of dollars in TARP money was a good deal for taxpayers."

irish19| 5.22.11 @ 3:58PM

Link? Before you start frothing at the mouth again at a simple request, why not just say where the quote came from? You put it in there. Tell us where you got it.

Cindy| 5.20.11 @ 10:57AM

It is so refreshing to hear so many people discuss Herman Cain. I have been for him as a candidate for quite awhile but am tired of people around me not knowing who he is.
I too think that he could be our next Reagan and a clear shot across the bow of our current so called POTUS.

Wayne | 5.20.11 @ 12:07PM

Too often his name is not even mentioned by those who discuss the candidates. But he is moving up the field and though Romney is in front right now, it is a long campaign and I think either he or Bachmann or Palin will emerge as the candidate. Just my opinion.

Oldefarte| 5.20.11 @ 11:10AM

Cain will have the overwhelming support of this country if he succeeds in securing the Republican nomination. Call it common sense or whatever, he simply as a businessperson knows exactly what needs to be accompolished within this country in order to financially right our economic ship. He's had to balance books, to hire/fire employees, to prepare budgets, etc. He no community organizer, hippie freedom rider liberal moron that we're faced with today. He's simply got both feet on the ground, and the taxpayer-voters of this country will crawl to the polls to pull the voting levers for him if he becomes the Republican nominee. Same for Pawlenty, Daniels, Palin, Bachmann or even Romney. Ther're all mainstreat, level-headed non-radicals, and any/all would make excellent alternatives to our current fiasco at 1600!!!!!!!!!!!

Wayne | 5.20.11 @ 12:05PM

Pretty much agree. I especially agree on your take on Cain. I am just not seeing the former CEO of Big Pharma as Main Street. But i would have no trouble voting for any you mentioned in 2012. Not with what I know at this point in time.

Oldefarte| 5.20.11 @ 2:03PM

Remember that even a vote for a candidate [Republican] that is not entirely proclaiming ideas that are 100% in-line with your personal ones, still would be a far better choice than the radical extremist that currently holds office. Personally, I can't think of any declared or potential Republican that I would not gladly vote for in leau of El Chosen One being allowed to have foru more years of destruction for this country!!!!!!!!

Wayne | 5.20.11 @ 2:59PM

But now we are picking the best candidate, and that means vetting him. We see what happens when a political party does not vet its candidates. So when I compare Daniels to other candidates, he comes off as dull, boring, in bed with the FDA, an establishment candidate and one who would only serve to make Obama look better.

JimH| 5.20.11 @ 11:20AM

Another important question is will supporters of other candidates refer to his boosters as Hermanistas or Cainiacs?

Prester John| 5.20.11 @ 1:57PM

Many of us have been using the term Cainiacs.

YeloStalyn| 5.20.11 @ 3:01PM

Not necissarily a name of his followers, but a nickname I have heard for him that I really like (all the current baggage this may bring, ie, love child and cheating scoundral aside) is The Hermanator.

Occam's Tool| 5.20.11 @ 11:28AM

Hey, I just want a Fully Black Candidate or a Woman to be my nominee (Bolton has not thrown hat into ring).

irish19| 5.22.11 @ 4:00PM

Bolton for SecState, and watch the heads explode. I don't think he'd be captured by the bureaucracy the way Powell and Rice were.

Melvin| 5.20.11 @ 11:29AM

Let me bring something to the forefront. Yes, Herman Cain is a Black man. Some of you may have noticed that and some of you didn't.
Let me tell you, Psst, just between us white folks, I was literally agahst when I learned that this voice that I was hearing on the radio, preaching the values of smaller government, lower taxes, and less government regulation. When I hear the, "B" word, heavens for pity sakes, I had such a case of the vapors, I thought I would never recover. Imagine that, a Black man extolling the virtues of Conservatism.
Surely he must be a Progressive trying to put one over on the Tea Party. The Tea Party that bunch Neanderthals who continues to cling to God and Guns as if it an American right or something. Can you believe the unmitigated gall?
There are those of us, who absolutely feel that it just wouldn't be right proper to have another one those, people in the White House again. Being that the last, "one" screwed things ups so miserably. It just wouldn't be proper. After all, they already had they're chance.
Of Course I am being quite the smart ass with the above parody of the way some finicky Conservatives are sounding when going through the mental anguish of selecting a Conservative Candidate to carry the Conservative banner.
First off, I have listened to Herman Cain since his bout with Cancer. Just because Herman Cain shares the same Color as Barrack Obama doesn't mean they are from the same bolt of cloth. Comparing Herman Cain to Barrack Obama is like comparing Ronald Reagan to Johnny Knoxville.
Barrack Obama cannot even begin to hold a candle to Herman Cain intellectually. Herman's first debate proved that point.
I emailed Herman Cain a number of years ago, when he was going through his treatment for cancer, and I wished him well, and a speedy recovery. It took some time, but Herman personally emailed me back and thanked me for my concerns.
Herman is sincere and forthright. I am sorry to say I have never personally met the man, and I hope one day I do, because I want to shake his hand, and thank him for all that he has done for the Conservative movement.
But when a person listens to Herman speak, you feel an immense wellspring of sincerity emanating from this man. This is why so many people first meet him they immediately like him. Herman Cain can be at home in the White House, board room or any one our living rooms. He doesn't present himself any bigger than he really is. He is just unpretentious plain old Herman.
Herman Cain has the skills, and the fortitude to get this Country's fiscal house in order. If we as a Nation can get a hold of that, many of the problems that we are experiencing will begin to correct themselves.
Herman Cain is not everything to everybody. He is a passionate Conservative, he has been a successful CEO of Godfathers Pizza, he has been a successful host and has his own talk show.
Herman Cain is not perfect, nor will he try to be. So you finicky Conservatives can stop this mental anguish of, "Well, is Herman a Social, Fiscal, pop culture Conservative?" This is exactly why we keep getting the squishy Conservatives running as Conservatives and their not.
Because the base Conservatives cannot decide what in the hell they want, Social, Fiscal, or whatever. This is exactly why the Socialist Democrats keep Conservatives divided with each other.
Right damn now, this Country needs a Conservative to get our fiscal house in order, because if we don't, we better get damn used to eating fish heads and rice, because that is all the Chinese Communists will allow us to eat.
Herman ain't pretty, he has a receding hairline, he has a mustache, but there is one thing that he sure is, and that is, Herman Cain is a Conservative period. And if you have any doubts email the man and ask him.

Clint| 5.20.11 @ 11:57AM

" Herman ain't pretty"

Neither is The FED.

Occam's Tool| 5.20.11 @ 4:18PM

Neither is Ron Paul's foreign policy.

Len| 5.20.11 @ 4:47PM

Do you have ever have a cogent, well thought out, substantive comment to make? Some proof that you actually understand any position and are willing or capable of refuting something you disagree with?

Occam's Tool| 5.21.11 @ 5:28PM

Sorry, Len---is that me or the Leprous Neurosyphilitic camel from Valley Forge you are referring to?

Clint| 5.20.11 @ 6:33PM

Neither Is Your Traitor Bastard Israel Firster Foreign Policy Neo-Chickenhawk Coward Tool Job.

Occam's Tool| 5.21.11 @ 5:29PM

Wow, Clint. All those Capitals! You must be a really gud and dep tinker.

Patrick| 5.21.11 @ 3:22PM

Oooh, you got him riled up now.

Ron Paul, as much as I like a large portion of his domestic policy, destroyed any chance of gaining widespread popularity due to his foreign policy. His ship is sunk.

Deal with it. He is a non-contender. Now find somebody else to support.

blackwatch| 5.21.11 @ 11:40PM

Ron Paul = Newt Gingrich.... has beens who won't beat Obama.

Next!!!

Patrick| 5.22.11 @ 4:12AM

Ron Paul may be a has-been, but it's just plain rude to lump him in with that whore.

Wayne | 5.20.11 @ 12:01PM

In my heart I want to see either a woman or a minority run against Obama. They will add a dimension to the campaign that will disarm the left. More importantly those who may run just seem to get how we conservatives in main street america feel. Cain impressed me by showing up in Madison and supporting Walker with the Tea Party. Palin later arrived also. It was needed support. Meanwhile we have a Daniels passively accepting fleabagging Democrats in Indiana. We will remember.

I have concerns about Cain, and I count on the campaign to erase some of those concerns. I have fewer concerns about West who I would love to see run. I am concerned about Cain's federal reserve past and his role in NAFTA. I am concerned with the so-called fairtax he champions.
But none of these are at the top of my list of candidate qualifications. Cain did a great job at the debate. I did not get any sense of what his foreign policy would be however. He needs to establish what he sees as the US role in the world. I am also leery of seeing us getting even more entangled in things we cannot control.

YeloStalyn| 5.20.11 @ 3:05PM

The Fair Tax is a FANTASTIC idea because it is a tax policy based on giving the people control rather than letting the gov. use taxes to control the people. On principle alone it is far superior to any other tax system. It is the only one that embraces the idea that men ought to be free and without control from the govt. The govt. ought to only restrict actions that interfere with the fundamental rights (life, liberty, property) of another. But with our current system, the govt. interferes and picks winners and losers with things like subsidies, loop-holes, credits, etc.

On pragmatism, the only thing wrong with the Fair Tax is potentially the numbers... but they can all be tweaked to make the system work. Besides... there's no reason the fed. govt. needs as much in revenue as it curretly takes in. By letting the people directly control how much they wish to pay in taxes (by limiting or increasing their spending) they can force the govt. to work within a much tighter restraint on the federal budget. What's wrong with that?

Wayne | 5.20.11 @ 10:55PM

So tell me, if a person is retired, has saved money for his retired for some 40 years and is now receiving some social security, under the FairTax will that person have to pay taxes?

If not it is not a fair tax.

Wayne | 5.20.11 @ 10:56PM

excuse me, if so, then it is not a fair tax, since he would have already been taxed on this money.

YeloStalyn| 5.23.11 @ 11:10AM

I don't know all the details of how we would transfer from one tax code to another. There are two books out about the Fair Tax by Congressman John Lender and Neal Boortz. You can also call the Neal Boortz radio show and ask him... he takes questions like this all the time and would have the answer. You could also submit a question, I would guess, at fairtax.org.

In the end, though, as a younger American, I pray that we all accept the lumps of getting out from under our current, corrupt system so that my golden years, and the lives of the generations after me, can live in a more free and truely fair world.
After all... I'm paying for that SS you'll recieve because your money is long gone. And I'll never see what I put in... and that's OK with me as long as we work to end that corrupt ponzi scheme.

Steve In Tulsa| 5.20.11 @ 12:05PM

I am already sending checks to Cain. I support him. I do not trust the GOP establishment that forced the liberal McCain on us. I want Herman Cain and the party better get behind him because none of my money will fund the party this go round. I only give money to Cain and Palin.

Torchwielding Peasant| 5.20.11 @ 4:51PM

I'M WITH YOU

Scott| 5.20.11 @ 12:40PM

Didn't this guy used to work for the Federal Reserve?

Len| 5.20.11 @ 12:58PM

Yes, and he supports is as being constitutional (this alone is a problem, not understanding that the congress may not re-delegate power or grant monopoly privileges) and having done it's "job" until only recently. However, a good number (Rothbard, Robert Murphy, Tom Woods) have shown that it has been one the main factors in our economic problems, and had much to do with the Great Depression.

I also post some links above to help better understand money and why the Federal Reserve system is bad.

BA Cyclone| 5.20.11 @ 1:18PM

Herman Cain was appointed as a citizen electee to the KC Fed board in 1992, and his performance and respect vaulted him to be elected Chairman from Jan 1995 to Aug 1996, when he resigned.

He has stated ad nauseam that "the Fed" of today resembles nothing of what it did back then, and he does not support today's rendition.

Further, he fully supports a return to the gold standard. That should be indicative enough for anyone regarding his stance on monetary and fiscal policy.

Len| 5.20.11 @ 1:38PM

BA, this is to say the FED did nothing wrong prior to today. The FED was an abomination from the beginning and nothing more than a tool designed by the bankers to expand their ability to gain wealth, but do so through cartelization and privileges , and not the free market. As far as I'm concerned, nothing less than a complete disavowal of this foul creation and central banking will suffice.

Nunya| 5.20.11 @ 5:46PM

Len, I agree with your point that the "...FED was an abomination from the beginning ...", it was designed to make the bankers rich at the expense of the masses. Anyone who has done some study of the Fed would likely agree. However, it's not going to go away overnight. While I think it needs to be dissolved, I think moving to a gold standard would put us "back on track", and would facilitate a complete elimination of the Fed. One step at a time...

Patrick| 5.21.11 @ 3:24PM

Real action upon the FED won't come from a presidential pen. You need Congress to get that ball rolling.

John| 5.20.11 @ 1:20PM

There are problems with Herman Cain's positions: For The Bailout Scam, Against Auditing The FED, For Propping Up Big Banking With The "Too Big To Fail" Scam.

If this poster is correct Cain is no conservative. He probably is also for the NAFTA scam and sending our vital industry to Red China.

He needs to be vetted and not by Frank Luntz.

Melvin| 5.20.11 @ 1:27PM

Hmm, many new names today, not the usual cast of characters here in American Spectator. Hmm, every single one of them have deep...deep....deep.....deep reservations about Herman Cain.
The deepness overwhelms, might be as deep as bull squeeze.

YeloStalyn| 5.20.11 @ 3:10PM

If I had to guess... I would guess that many of them are Paulites. Which is sad. I like a lot of what Paul says (although he is a HORRIBLE articulator of libertarian ideas in a public forum such as a debate or interview) but sadly, many of his followers are very rude and often times I find them to be just as blind and norrow minded as many liberals. They believe in Paul and therefore anyone else MUST be evil and wrong.

And before any of you Paulites freak out... the before mentioned statements do not necissarily apply to ALL of his supporters. But you can tell which ones if any respond to this, lol.

shipley130| 5.20.11 @ 1:29PM

My Cain Train interest is off the rails. When he was verbally attacking Trump, I decided he is not grown up enough to be president. We have learned what damage can be done when a child occupies the White House.

Drunken Sailor| 5.20.11 @ 3:56PM

"I was never threatened or concerned about Donald Trump in the first place, to be perfectly honest, because bullying, being a bully is not a leadership strategy, not if you want to lead the United States of America."

You call that a verbal attack?

Patrick| 5.21.11 @ 3:27PM

Ah, let me see...when was the last time someone was elected to POTUS without attacking his opponents at all? Ike?

John| 5.20.11 @ 1:42PM

Cain was probably attacking Trump because of his America-first views, including cracking down on rebuilding Communist China and OPEC. Trump was pro-American.

Cain is a smooth talking talk-radio guy and wants committees to find answers -- I do not trust him.

Patrick| 5.21.11 @ 3:29PM

Trump is a gasbag and we all know it. His America First proclamations were canned and calculated.

Robes| 5.20.11 @ 1:45PM

Cain looks like a winner so far. I hope to see a lot more on him in the near future.

Len| 5.20.11 @ 1:45PM

Herman Cain on owning stock in banks, not as private investors, but by the government.

http://004eeb5.netsolhost.com/hc133.htm

somnolence| 5.20.11 @ 1:59PM

Rush Limbaugh played Mitch Daniels's speech in 2009 to the Ripon Society on his radio show today. It proves Daniels is an appeaser with the Dems. (1) Palin (2) Bachmann (3) Cain (4) Santorum= my only choices, bar none, until Election Day 2012.

somnolence| 5.20.11 @ 2:01PM

I'm happy Cain trumped the chump, Trump, a liberal in sheep's clothing, a four time bankruptcy case, and somone who doesn't respect eminent domain. To hell with Donald Trump!

Oldefarte| 5.20.11 @ 2:19PM

Even though I applaud everyone's discussion of Cain's etc possible abilities or lack thereof [along with his connections to the Federal Reserve which many here dislike]; please remember and contemplate the fact that if El Chosen One is allowed another four years of running this country into the ground, there will simply be no more USA as we know it today. The Fed issue is a lesser important side issue, and the one and only critical one is will this country survive or not? If we allow these Democrats to keep governmental welfare spending [along with all other governmental spending] to feed their indigent constituents, the USA will become bankrupt, and its financial institutions and economy will completely fail and default, period [including the Fed]. So focus, please!!!!!!!!!!!

John| 5.20.11 @ 2:30PM

Looks like Cain is punting to the states on immigration enforcement – sounds like a weasel politician. It is a federal responsibility and he is running for CIC. California for sure and maybe Texas would give amnesty to illegals.

Maybe Cain agrees with McCain and Sarah on immigration.

Making E-verify mandatory for all employers is one solution.

YeloStalyn| 5.20.11 @ 3:12PM

Do you have any links/references to Cain's stance on immigration?

I'm not doubting... just wanting to go read up for myself.

loulou| 5.20.11 @ 3:35PM

If I'm not mistaken, Numbers USA gives Cain a poor grade. Check it out.

victor| 5.21.11 @ 6:28PM

Herman Cain got a D+ for not being vocal, or as they put it: "has said nothing"

On the other hand Ron Paul got an F!,
mostly from his position that businesses should not be punished or even trying to keep track of violators.
E-verify gets the back of his hand and businesses should not be prevented from hiring illegals.

Drunken Sailor| 5.20.11 @ 4:01PM

Actually here is what Herman Cain says about Imigration.

Cain's 4-point immigration plan

Cain outlined his four-part plan to deal with the nation's illegal immigration crisis:

1) "Secure the border.
2) "Enforce the laws that are already there, and make it easy for companies to hire legal workers.

3) "Promote the path to citizenship that's already there. We don't need a new one. We just need to clean up the bureaucracy that slows the current one down.
4) "This is one I haven't heard any candidate talk about: Deal with illegals who are already here and empower the states to do what the federal government won't do, can't do and has not done. It's very simple: Take the federal immigration laws and just add a line in there that says, 'or the state,' and they will get it done. Empower the states. That's not one you hear everybody talking about.

"What program have we micromanaged out of Washington, D.C., that actually has worked? I trust the states. I believe 45 of them are going to get it right. If the other five don't get it right, they're going to learn from the other 45. I would rather trust the 45 getting it right than trust the federal government because it has demonstrated that it cannot get it right."

Read more: Obama's 'worst nightmare' seeks showdown with prez http://www.wnd.com/?pageId=300741#ixzz1MvOOutvN

A.M. Mallett| 5.20.11 @ 2:57PM

The Paulheads are not going to support Cain in the Primaries but when push comes to shove, do they want Oba Jihad Mao for another 4 years?

Len| 5.20.11 @ 4:20PM

Despite your disparaging implication of cultism (Paulheads), do you know of any libertarians or minarchists that actually support Obama?

Is there something wrong with wanting the one man who has shown fidelity and an understanding of the US constitution to be president? If you deny this then you are constitutionally illiterate. Most supporters of Ron Paul have actually made an effort to understand economics, peer deeper into our history and go beyond propaganda and spin, and gain an understanding of the US constitution. Having done so myself, I can see that what most consider to be allowed in regard to foreign policy and the use of the military by the president is not, and is indeed contrary to the understanding of those who ratified the US constitution.

victor| 5.21.11 @ 6:18PM

Len:
"Despite your disparaging implication of cultism (Paulheads),"

Perhaps, PaulParrotHeads sounds better?

"do you know of any libertarians or minarchists that actually support Obama?"

By shunning all Republicans that are not racially or ideologically pure enough or writing in your brother-in-law's name on the ballot, are you not de facto supporting Obama?

blackwatch| 5.21.11 @ 11:52PM

Hi Len,

Paul is an outlier. As such he is not electable as POTUS. The squishy center independants who we need to win will find him way too radical. The MSM will paint him broadly as a loony kook.

So let's pick a candidate who matches 80% of your views for POTUS and then concentrate on increasing our Conservative base in the House. The House is where the real power is if you have the balls to Govern. Want to tear up the FED? That will come from the House or it won't happen.

Look to the House. Build a base there.

Hope you have a great weekend!

Mike 3/505| 5.20.11 @ 4:25PM

Why do folks keep decrying "lack of ELECTIVE experience." It's (successful) EXECUTIVE experience we need!

PhilTheCapitalistPig| 5.20.11 @ 4:31PM

After reading through these comments, its pretty obvious some of you will never be satisfied with ANY candidate. Personally, I like Herman A LOT. And if you've noticed, the LSM is already beginning their race-baiting (ex. Newt and the food-stamp president). But beyond that, I just like herman's ideas. He talks about free markets. I can dig it.

PhilTheCapitalistPig| 5.20.11 @ 4:32PM

CEO = Executive Experience

Why does everyone think being a politician is the best Executive experience you can get?

I don't get it with some of YOU people.

PhilTheCapitalistPig| 5.20.11 @ 4:34PM

I haven't been here in a while. Kinda pisses me off to see all of you bashing Herman. I thought this would be one place he might get a little respect. I've obviously overestimated many of you. Some of you need a little more schooling on what being a conservative means.

PhilTheCapitalistPig| 5.20.11 @ 4:47PM

You guys need to get over the federal reserve for now. Seriously. Let's get the economy booming and get rid of that boondoggle that is Obamacare first.

Len| 5.20.11 @ 4:55PM

Phil, it is because we want the economy to boom that we are concerned about the federal reserve. It is the FED's practices going back to the Great Depression that have hurt us the most. It is also due to the collaboration between the FED and the federal government that are able to continue deficit spending. If the federal government actually had to go out and tax us for what it does there would likely be blood in the streets, but through accounting tricks and currency debasement that is all the easier because of printing presses or electronic pencil pushing what is being done is a little easier to hide.

This is why someone like Herman Cain who was a FED member and sees nothing wrong with it has me concerned. It's not some fringe issue if you truly understand economics.

Len| 5.20.11 @ 4:58PM

And for a capitalist pig, you seem particularly unconcerned about the federal reserve system, which is hardly capitalist, but relies on government privileges to gain wealth. If banks were actually forced to hold capital or real money to operate we would all be better off.

Oldefarte| 5.21.11 @ 1:15PM

Your points are most probably partially accurate, but again, please do not PUT THE CART BEFORE THE HORSE. The immediate threat/issue is the current president and his Democrat collegues, period. If he/they are allowed to remain in office, your Fed wish may come true in that he/they may politically take over the Fed etc and thereafter renovate same into a Venisuela[sp] run by a Hugo Chavez type administration, confiscating businesses for political purposes!!!!!

blackwatch| 5.21.11 @ 11:56PM

Well said OF!!

Conservatives need to win in 2012 and put America to work building an energy independent nation.

the FED will have to be dismantled over time and that will only happen in the House. The Senate will need to follow along but they will come when the House leads. Time to elect a leader with balls to make a stand and mix it up.

John| 5.20.11 @ 5:11PM

There already are federal immigration laws that the states just ignore -- need a strong law & order CIC to demand that they do. Looks like Cain is doing a Pontius Pilate on immigration, which will dilute federal responsibility and cause chaos & confusion -- bad idea.

Occam's Tool| 5.20.11 @ 5:11PM

Personally, I think many of the Paulites would stay home rather than vote for anyone not ideologically pure.

Len| 5.20.11 @ 5:16PM

The question is why would you not vote for someone ideologically pure??

Occam's Tool| 5.21.11 @ 5:33PM

Because sometimes life gives you a choice between bad and horrible, not merely bad and good.

For example, take Clint's girlfriend. She may be 30 years older than him, and a retired hooker, but surely that's better than ramming his micropenis into a squirrelhole in the dying elm tree out back, isn't it? I mean, as a retired hooker, she knows how to deal with severely deformed and inadequate men.

That's what I'm getting at, Len. Is that clearer, now?

Drunken Sailor| 5.23.11 @ 10:47AM

Nice!

victor| 5.21.11 @ 6:10PM

Purity of all sorts is very important to the Lens of the world:
Ethic
Religious
Social
Racial

Remember How I loved the Bomb?

Len et al would have made great General Jack D. Rippers, eh?

Purity
Of
Essence

Redstateboy| 5.20.11 @ 5:25PM

I believe Cain scares the Bee-g-zus out of the Liberals.. a Genuine Clean, articulate Black guy who's actually accomplished something with his life! Can you imagine Cain wooing Black Voters away from the Slave Party with a Positive Message!!!?!? A Message of Real Hope and Change... Not that Cynical garbage Das Messiah bloviates about.

simon templar| 5.23.11 @ 5:52PM

No. sorry. He apparently is scarier to conservatives and the talking heads. No, go.

Nite| 5.20.11 @ 8:29PM

I like Herman Cain and will certainly vote for him. The other confirmed GOP candidates do NOT interest me at all. Herman is real, and so what if he has never held elected office. He has real business experience and that is what we truly need. I expect lots of voters will agree with me.

Will| 5.20.11 @ 10:06PM

As an OIF III veteran it saddens me to see so many people being swept up by another smooth talker rather than actually looking into the candidates' past. Mr. Cain is a big government central bank insider. He still defends his position on TARP. He just doesn't like the way it was implemented. That's like saying socialism will work, we only need the right people pulling the strings. Wake up folks the whole thing was/is UNCONSTITUTIONAL. I will not support a progressive in either party. I would have thought the GOP had learned their lesson after so many abandoned the party over the nomination of McCain. No more liars, no more progressives. Restore the Constitution and our republic. Take your civil duty seriously, too many people are dying so that you might have the right to vote.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ol45PnAIFRU&feature=player_embedded

Pastor emeritus Nathan Bickel | 5.20.11 @ 11:52PM

At first, when I heard of Herman Cain, I thought that he would not stand a chance of moving ahead in the primaries, simply and sadly because Obama's very poor performance has spoiled the near future possibility for any other blacks to successfully run and appeal to the voting public - being, that, Obama's White House occupation has botched everything.

Mr. Cain makes a grand point. By him running - and, if he should be the GOP nominee, he can take out of the equation, the nasty racist politically correct card the liberals used in Obama's first campaign for president.

Cain could be our first [genuinely] black US president, as Obama really didn't qualify, since he is a mulatto. [Obama, hasn't been legally certified due to his unconstitutional non natural born citizen status. That is why I don't refer to him as "president," - only alleged president.]

Finally, Cain's biggest strength is that he is well spoken; a straight talker; conservative - and that he is not a politician! I've said it before and I'll say it again. The GOP needs to nominate someone as far opposite of Obama as they can. No milk toast Romney or Gingrich who will end up as RHINOS and / or, Country Club, Republicans, kowtowing to the liberal's politically correct agenda.......

BackToBasics| 5.21.11 @ 12:10AM

I liked Cain the first time I heard him speak which was on the radio. But I don't know enough about him yet. My biggest litmus test for any candidate is where they stand on immigration. It is not the only issue for sure but if a candiate wants to secure our borders then chances are good that most of the rest of what I would look for in the same person would be present as well.

I do not have solid facts on where he stands on immigration yet, just some "rumors" from some sites.

But if he's strong on fighting illegal immigration, I'll vote for him in the primaries for sure.

simon templar| 5.23.11 @ 5:49PM

Nope. Sorry. He is toast..its over. The talking heads said so. You do not get to choose. Whatever gave you that idea. Want a choice? Want a voice? Want a candidate that can get elected claiming 57 state support? Vote democratic.

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Chris Pedersen| 5.21.11 @ 7:37AM

Cain is my man here in SW Missouri, he has already gained name reconition as early as March, in a yearly local event for small businesses, a young fellow approached and stated to me the Cain was his man and he was going to work to get him elected. He was a tag along with our newly elected Conservative County Commissioner.

Following Cain and Neal Boortz for years on talk radio, I was surprised the young man knew who he was, but it is a pleasure to know that he is smart enough to know the difference between the politics of Herman Cain and Obama the Marxist.

I will be on board soon.

Dee See| 5.21.11 @ 11:52AM

---To get beyond 'controversy as usual'
Tavistock psy op status he'll have to step
forward and start talking fearlessly, unflinchingly
and resolutely about the Globalist TREASON
issue.

-----That's the wolverine in the kitchen of our current situation
no one's daring to talk about.

Clint| 5.22.11 @ 9:17AM

Chris Wallace just " Stumped" Cain on " The Right Of Return". Then Wallace explained his question.

If this were Sarah Palin, The Anti-Palin Smear Merchants would be jumpin' all over the lack of preparation.
One standard to marginalize Sarah, another for others.

simon templar| 5.23.11 @ 5:45PM

Don't fret Clint, Kaminski has risen to the challenge. Cain is now toast, done, finished..shit, what a ten second hesitation can cost you. If the opposition can not kill off all our candidates, do not fret, the conservative media will be glad to help.

bobbymike| 5.22.11 @ 11:41AM

Herman Cain is awesome. Love him will vote for and support him.

Dr. Kibble| 5.22.11 @ 3:06PM

Herman Cain's business experience and the fact that he is a political outsider are good points, IMHO. However, with emphasis, the fact that he was a former chairman of the KC Federal Reserve bank, and that he doesn't think the Fed should be audited, are BIG deal breakers for this Tea Partier.

I also think the fact that he had absolutely no position on the war in Afghanistan during the first GOP debate speaks to an utter lack of preparation. "I need more info" might work on some obscure topic, but not a war that we've been in for over 10 years and is bankrupting our nation.

John Greene| 5.23.11 @ 2:10PM

My wife and I like Herman Cain a great deal. He is imminently competent in problem solving and he is a man who has always risen to the challenge and performed BETTER than well.

Herman just made a bit of a mistep when being interviewed when he was questioned about the "right of return". It's a minor point, but he's a quick study. We're rooting right now for him.

Speedypete| 5.23.11 @ 8:52PM

We would vote for Herman Cain before we would vote for a political hack. He supports representative government by private citizens instead of professionals that know all the best junkets and the lobbyists to take them there. I knew nothing about him until I saw the debate excerpts and then Yahoo news had an article on him. I was unaware that Godfather's Pizza was doing so poorly now because of him. At least that is what the Yahoo critics say. But he left 15 years ago when I read the bio. Just throw it against the wall and see if it sticks. Thank goodness Obama has Bush to blame for what happened 3 years ago.

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Ross Kaminsky|2 comments

Enough With the Bipartisanship

Matt Purple|3 comments

The United States of El Norte

Larry Thornberry|5 comments

Vodka = Vodka = Vodka

Daniel J. Flynn

We Will Remember

Roger Kaplan|2 comments

Tornado Chasers

Claire Healey|4 comments

The Chinese Waltz

George H. Wittman

The Devils Koch

Marta H. Mossburg

The Spectacle Blog

Muslim, Er, Youth Riots in Sweden

Aaron Goldstein | 12:41AM

Good Luck Quin

Aaron Goldstein | 12:13AM

One of The London Soldier Beheading Suspects British Born

Aaron Goldstein | 5.23.13

Lois Lerner Now on Administrative Leave

Kaylin Bugos | 5.23.13

Crisis Looms, and Kevin Williamson Can Hardly Wait

Luca Gattoni-Celli | 5.23.13

Dismantling Networks, Preventing Footholds

Ross Kaminsky | 5.23.13

Bill Would Ban All Abortions After 20 Weeks

Jordan Gonzalez | 5.23.13

Harry Reid Pushes for the Nuclear Option

Claire Healey | 5.23.13

FLASHBACK TO: 1995

Pope Culture

By George Sim Johnston

A man of faith in a godless age is hitting Americans where it hurts.
Why the GOP Does Not, Like, Totally Suck

By P.J. O'Rourke

Mr. and Mrs. American Spectator Reader, let P.J. O’Rourke talk sense to your kids.
Dames at Sea

By John Corry
In the Absence of Guns

By Mark Steyn

In Britain, defending your property can get you life.
The Metaphysical Martini

By Werner J. Dannhauser
Counting the Costs of Clintonism

By Robert H. Bork

The debacle of this president’s administration is both a cause and a symptom of the decline of American values. Unless Congress impeaches him, that decline will go on unchecked. An eminent jurist surveys the damage and assesses the chances for the recovery of our culture.
Chuck McHagel

By George Neumayr

It won’t take long for conservatives to scratch this presidential wannabe off their 2008 scorecard.
The Legacy of Old John and Mother Fresh-Roasted

By Douglas Bartholomew
It’s the Best Time of the Year

By Mark Steyn

The American Christmas, like the songs that celebrate it, makes room for everybody under the rainbow. Is that why so many people seem to be hostile to it?
The Bush Crack-Up

By Brit Hume

Was the President done in by the economy, or by the politics of the economy?

The American Spectator

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