October 10, 2004

I WAS WRONG

Never again will I doubt the wisdom of Australians. I called this election all wrong, essentially because I couldn’t believe -- despite a powerful economy, correct views on the war, and a lame opposition campaign -- that John Howard could win four elections in a row.

I love this country for proving me wrong. I love Australia.

Posted by Tim Blair at October 10, 2004 02:28 AM
Comments

Congratulations!!!!!!
On picking a winner. Up here in Santas outhouse all we got was more socialist, failed communist, sharia crap spreaders who call themselves Lieberals. Oh well, there is sanity left in the world. Now lets see what Americas imbeciles do with their vote.

Posted by: conjob at October 10, 2004 at 02:37 AM

Thanks, Australians. From a pro-Bush, pro-war, Hobbesian libertarian Yank.

Posted by: Tom at October 10, 2004 at 02:37 AM

God bless the people of Australia!

The Bribed and Coerced live to fight on.

And on behalf of all the Yanks, we're sorry about John Forbes Kerry's sister. We'll try to send better representation next election.

Posted by: John at October 10, 2004 at 02:39 AM

We ALL love Australia.

Posted by: m at October 10, 2004 at 02:41 AM

I only know one native Australian. He's a mathematician (a very good one) and a helluva down-to-earth, unpretentious guy. If I had to try to find a home outside of my beloved America, I'd head for Australia first thing—that "put another shrimp on the barby" thing notwithstanding! (Or is it "put another shrimp on the Barbie", which suggests a whole other thing entirely?!)

Anyway, congratulations, Tim and all Aussies!

--fooltomery

Posted by: fooltomery at October 10, 2004 at 02:44 AM

"Never again will I doubt the wisdom of Australians."

FUCKING OATH TIM!

Posted by: Jamie at October 10, 2004 at 02:44 AM

Heartiest Congratulations to Mark Latham on his stupendous and against-all-odds win.

Of a Meat raffle.

Posted by: Alan E Brain at October 10, 2004 at 02:44 AM

Me too, Tim, me too.

Posted by: Blackfive at October 10, 2004 at 02:46 AM

There is hope burning yet! Congrats to John Howard and the majority of Australians on voting with common sense.

Posted by: Wallace-Midland, Texas at October 10, 2004 at 02:47 AM

Good on ya, mates! Thanks for not letting us down. Now it's up to us Americans to re-elect Bush and not let you down!

Posted by: BarCodeKing, Florida, USA at October 10, 2004 at 02:48 AM

Well, now I know which country to threaten to move to.

Posted by: meep at October 10, 2004 at 02:50 AM

Do I detect a bit simplisme in this patriotic outburst, Tim?

Posted by: John Tabin at October 10, 2004 at 02:53 AM

The bombers went after the Spanish and they proved the price of changing Spain's policy is a few packs of explosives. (Ohter people won't forget this lesson. Soon I expect Spain will hear from the Front for the Liberation of Islamic Andalus.) Then the bombers went after the Aussies. Different result.

Posted by: Jim Bennett at October 10, 2004 at 02:54 AM

Yes, I was wrong too. Glad to be wrong too.

Not to, like, nit-pick, but now that Howard has seen off the ALP hordes, can we get back to having a Liberal government that does cool tax cuts and free markets instead of spending and pork-barrelling?

Yeah, ingrate I am.

Latham beaten, and McGrath back to his best form. Not a bad day at all, really.

Posted by: Scott Wickstein at October 10, 2004 at 02:54 AM

I called it right.! Though my numbers were way off.....

Posted by: Tex at October 10, 2004 at 02:57 AM

It has just been posted on Arts and Letters Daily that Jacques Derrida has died. The perfect end to a pertfect day.

Posted by: Sue at October 10, 2004 at 02:57 AM

Congratulations. I wish I could love Canada the same way. Maybe I should move down under...

Posted by: The Monger at October 10, 2004 at 03:00 AM

Warmest congratulations from a friend in New York. God Bless Australia. May the people of America have as much common sense as you folks. I view this as a preliminary defeat for John Kerry. May it be a harbinger of bigger things.

Posted by: Freedom's Slave at October 10, 2004 at 03:01 AM

I am an American and I love Australia too! Congratulations to Howard and all freedom loving Aussies.

Posted by: Latino at October 10, 2004 at 03:02 AM

Margo: "Can Latham survive? 2004 was certainly not a re-run of 1969, when Gough led Labor to the brink of victory before truiumphing in 1975."

Gough "truiumphed" in 1972, not 75.

Posted by: Latest from Margo at October 10, 2004 at 03:02 AM

Warmest congratulations from a friend in New York. God Bless Australia. May the people of America have as much common sense as you folks. I view this as a mini-defeat for John Kerry. May it be a harbinger of bigger things.

Posted by: Freedom's Slave at October 10, 2004 at 03:02 AM

Gawd, what great news! We who are about to vote salute you!

Posted by: Instapilot at October 10, 2004 at 03:05 AM

Your voters have done your soldiers a great honor by showing them support for their job at a time when it would have been easier (not better, just easier) to just have them come home, where the surely want to be.
Thanks to the honorable people of Australia, from a US soldier proud to stand by true allies in hard times.
Diggs

Posted by: Diggs at October 10, 2004 at 03:06 AM

Some questions on the Senate result (as an European bystander very sympathetic to Premier Howard's record)..

1) did the Coalition win control ? How close is it regarding minor parties and who holds the balance

2) in what areas does the Senate matter so much - I heard it's about taxation. Could a Coalition win mean MEANINGFUL MARGINAL TAX RATE REDUCTIONS on the income tax front - or even a flattax ??

all the best
CROSSY
Vienna/Austria

Posted by: Crossy at October 10, 2004 at 03:08 AM

(Wheeze.) What a relief! That Latham dude didn't sound very stable sane reliable.

Posted by: Andrea Harris at October 10, 2004 at 03:09 AM

Tim I love your love for this country
Has Margot Kingston's head exploded yet,
is Alan Ramsey in deep melancholy, is Philip Adams going into permanent silence ?

Posted by: klein at October 10, 2004 at 03:12 AM

What did it? The coercion or the bribery? Something tells me that you fellahs aren't the kind to respond meekly to threats, so I'm assuming that each liberal voter can expect a big fat Halliburton check in the post come Monday.

God Bless Australia!

Posted by: DrZin at October 10, 2004 at 03:16 AM

"I love this country for proving me wrong. I love Australia."

You might Tim, but then your not a hateful lefty.
This from the comments in Backpages election thread.

"I hope the next couple of years are lean times for those who have mortaged their homes to the hilt and bought investment properties. I hope all those f**ers out there who voted Liberal to "keep interest rates down" lose their houses when interest rates, eventually, go up. Stupid, short sighted idiots."

Posted by: James at October 10, 2004 at 03:16 AM

God Bless Australia and her people.

You folks show the wisdom and strength to pick the Right man, at the Right time and the Right place in history.

The scare tactics of the Kerry sister didn't work in Australia just as the doom and gloom from John Forged Kerry won't work in America.

Lastly, best wishes to all the brave Aussies serving along side with our yanks around the world.

Posted by: Teresa at October 10, 2004 at 03:18 AM

I'm so relieved! Hurray for Australia!

And what a good omen this is for us here in the U.S. as well. It gives me hope.

Posted by: Cara Remal at October 10, 2004 at 03:22 AM

Excellent result. Even sweeter reading Mad Margo's snivelling in the SMH.

Even if Bush loses, at least I can console myself with seeing Oz moonbats crying into their beer.

Posted by: David Gillies at October 10, 2004 at 03:22 AM

Not much to say but: Bless you, Ozzies! You had our back. I hope we can return the favor November 2 and get back to the ugly business at hand.

Posted by: russell at October 10, 2004 at 03:22 AM

From a very happy and slightly confused Yank,

Congrats guys. I really loved the Aussie hospitality the last time I visited and am justly proud of y'all in this election.

By the way, could somebody explain what your Senate does beyond drawing a salary?

And who are the independents and the other very small parties (just how they align is enough).

Thanks in advance

Posted by: David at October 10, 2004 at 03:24 AM

Proud to call Australia a former home. Lets not underestimate in the least bit what this means. This was round 2 in the WoT. Spain GAVE the terrorists round 1, Australia came out with a virtual TKO and now it is left to us here in the US to deliver the knockout punch on Nov. 2.

As well, we should not misunderstand who the terrorists fear. It was not Aznar, it is not Howard and it is not W. - they fear the resolve of the voters. They just got b***hslapped, today.

Posted by: Editor at October 10, 2004 at 03:26 AM

I'm raising several for you all tonight.

Good on ya.

Posted by: charles austin at October 10, 2004 at 03:28 AM

Well done, Oz.

Bush, Blair, and Howard, will together see Iraq through to democracy and freedom.
Bringing democracy to the arab world will change everything.
Arabs now see a dead end everywhere they look. Why not become suicide bombers, their choices are so bleak? But give them better choices and they will behave more like humans everywhere would behave.

Posted by: Mellifluous at October 10, 2004 at 03:30 AM

What a happy, happy result. Way to go, Australia. You guys rock and we sure appreciate it! 'Mates' indeed. {:^)

Posted by: tree hugging sister at October 10, 2004 at 03:34 AM

Whodathunkit? My view of Australia has always been that it was the model for the country Ann Rand decribed in Atlas Shrugged. Maybe I will have to re-evaluate.

Posted by: moptop at October 10, 2004 at 03:37 AM

Beaut!

Now we'll see if the US media reports it. I loved Margo Kingston's snotty closing remark...one can only hope Mo Dowd joins her in Nov....maybe they can get group rates on the Media De Nile cruise.

Posted by: feste at October 10, 2004 at 03:38 AM

Way to go, Aussies! Was it the coercion, or the bribery, that swung the outcome? Please recommend some Aussie companies with whom I can do some business as a sign of my gratitude (either companies who export to the States or from whom I can order consumer goods online).

I will gladly pour some money into your fine country via its business class. I don't patronize Spanish, French, or German companies, so there's some money burning a hole in my pocket.

And I get the warm, patriotic fuzzies just thinking that I am assisting in the bribery process!

Posted by: Pablo at October 10, 2004 at 03:40 AM

Australia Australia Australia we love you amen.

Posted by: Bruce at October 10, 2004 at 03:40 AM

Congratulations for not pulling a Spain, Aussies!

(boy I'm jealous)

Posted by: Franco Alemán (from Barcelona, Spain, the proud new member of the Axis of Weasels) at October 10, 2004 at 03:40 AM

Deepest congratulations from another Yank. Here's to a healthy partnership in the war on terror!
Daniel Day

Posted by: Morenuancedthanyou at October 10, 2004 at 03:41 AM

Crossy: The senate will take a while to finalise but it's looking like the government might have it won too - though maybe a seat short so they'll need the christian fundamentalist's support (which shouldn't be a problem given their policies). Every piece of legislation has to pass the Senate, so a government that wins it can pass anything it wants.

But no way is Howard going to do anything about taxation (aside from minor tweaks). He's had a long time to do so and hasn't shown any indication of it (he had his chance with GST but didn't go far enough) - in fact his increases to government hand outs via welfare probably means he couldn't do anything anyway. He's Big Government to the core.

Posted by: sam at October 10, 2004 at 03:43 AM

Yes, thanks to the Aussies, true allies and friends.

Posted by: Reid at October 10, 2004 at 03:44 AM

John Howard called the election early so that he would not be caught up in the first anniversery of Plastic Turkeygate. Latham should'nt have let him off the hook on that.

Posted by: Ross at October 10, 2004 at 03:53 AM

Not that this is news to any one here, but without blogs we in the US would hardly know there was an election going on down under. Not even on Fox was it front page news!

Well done to all the right thinking Aussies.

Posted by: Retread at October 10, 2004 at 03:55 AM

Oh, by the way, EVERY American Bush supporter needs to buy a bottle (case)of Aussie Wine. They have alot of really good stuff. I am leaving shortly to get mine.

Posted by: David at October 10, 2004 at 03:55 AM

Somewhere in heaven I like to think of an Aussie I knew, sitting around knocking back some beer, goosing angels, laughing about the election results. I'll always remember fondly how he used to great me. He'd give me a big smile, flip me the bird and say, "F*** you Dougy!"

Posted by: toad at October 10, 2004 at 03:55 AM

Thank you and God bless Australia,
Since the Egyptians won't let Madonna visit because of her ties to Judaism, I vote we take the 2 billion dollars the United States sends them per year and split it 50/50 with the people of Australia.

Posted by: Tyree at October 10, 2004 at 03:56 AM

Many, many heartfelt thanks from America to the voters of Australia. Your willingness to stand consistently shoulder-to-shoulder with us in the darkest hours throughout the past 65+ years deserves our utmost gratitude and respect. Please understand that the completely tactless and grossly inappropriate words that Mr. Kerry has spoken about your country and its sacrifices do not reflect the views of America towards our friend, our ally, the people of Australia.

Posted by: An American in Britain at October 10, 2004 at 03:56 AM

That you have numerous U.S. congratulations goes without saying. More importantly, you've also got our respect. We’ve just learned, again, how Australia stands in this world . . . tall.

Posted by: Jim C at October 10, 2004 at 03:56 AM

Pablo,
Australian wines are among the finest, if not thee finest, in the world. Buying them is a double mitzvah.

Posted by: moptop at October 10, 2004 at 03:58 AM

What happened to the truck Alan Ramsey did it hit a bollard

Posted by: geoffo at October 10, 2004 at 03:58 AM

This is a relief.

Good work, Aussies.

Just keep Margo down there, will you?

Posted by: Percy Dovetonsils at October 10, 2004 at 03:58 AM

all of you badasses in australia rule! aussies don't take shit from anyone, did anybody really believe they'd abandon the US and the UK in favor of france, germany and china? i don't think so...

Posted by: sanjay at October 10, 2004 at 04:00 AM

Thanks, Australia. Some damn good Aussie troops fought next to me in Vietnam, and now you've given your fellow convicts a hand when the chips were down. We won't forget.

Posted by: Helian at October 10, 2004 at 04:00 AM

I love Australia, too.

It's a very minor gesture, but I just bought my third "Buffalo Squashy" Barmah hat.

I recommend this headgear to all my Yank friends.

And by the way, buy lots of Aussie wine! It's an amazing bargain.

Jamie Irons (Napa Valley Paul Hogan wannabe)

Posted by: Jamie Irons at October 10, 2004 at 04:02 AM

I am humbled and shamed that it is so easy for us Americans to forget just how stalwart you Aussies are. Australia is America's most reliable friend and has stood shoulder to shoulder in every major battle for a hundred years. Thank you.

Posted by: Dan at October 10, 2004 at 04:13 AM

God Bless Australia! And God Bless the people of that great and glorious nation. John Howard's triumph restores my faith that, however it may sometimes seem, all is well.

Have a drink on me!

Posted by: Bill Spencer at October 10, 2004 at 04:18 AM

I almost feel sorry for Margo and her merry band of fellow woodducks almost.

Posted by: geoffo at October 10, 2004 at 04:19 AM

Thanks to the majority of Austrailia...no matter how small!. You send a message to those who saw Spain as a victory that countries who support freedom and liberty still will not be swayed by propaganda campaigns....

Posted by: Rich at October 10, 2004 at 04:20 AM

Tim, to you and your fellow countrymen: Thanks for staying "coerced and bribed," mates! Here's one U.S. Marine in Iraq who'll sleep more soundly tonight knowing you're still aboard with us. Semper Fidelis!

Posted by: LeatherneckRJL at October 10, 2004 at 04:20 AM

Hooray Australia! The US, Britain, Australia (and a few others) should withdraw from the UN and start our own world community: only letting in democracies (but not France).

After last nights debates I am very confident that our President will be re-elected as well. What a wonderful day!

Posted by: Dennis Castle at October 10, 2004 at 04:25 AM

Greetings From The United States!

Congratulations to all our Australian allies on the re-election of your Prime Minister John Howard!

Our enemies around the world now know the resolve of the Australian people to remain firm in their committment to fighting global terror and keeping our mutual economic ties strong!

Terror that seeks to harm not just our bodies, but our will, as well.

Despite the tripe and blather you see and hear in most of world's media, whose business it is to stir up controversy and conflict. (funded, I suspect perhaps by stolen Oil for Food money) it's a battle we're winning!

Special thanks and prayers go out to all our Australian Allied forces, and their families, fighting and sacrificing with us for freedom around the world!

Tim

Posted by: Tim Bair at October 10, 2004 at 04:27 AM

Congrats, Tim, on your good fortune in sensible countrymen!

Keep your fingers crossed for me and mine in the US!

CBK

Posted by: cbk at October 10, 2004 at 04:28 AM

Just got back from looking around Shiel's place. Ye Gods. Should we warn New Zealand that a bunch of lefties with their panties in a twist are about to move there?

Or do we give a shit?

Posted by: A Bruce at random at October 10, 2004 at 04:30 AM

Great news, and praise be to the wisdom of Australians. Would that we here in the Diminished Dominion of the North had such good sense and vision. Sadly ....

Posted by: Cable at October 10, 2004 at 04:31 AM

God bless the Aussies. One of the few countries in the world that I as an American would actually fight for.

Posted by: Joel at October 10, 2004 at 04:32 AM

This news has just made my day! I can't tell you how great it feels to have Howard win, and I am from the US. Really, congrats to all of us winners. The tide is advancing.

Posted by: brianO at October 10, 2004 at 04:38 AM

Yes! This is great news, I'm very happy to hear Howard won. Tim you had me nervous for a bit there....

I'm the same way though. I always think my team is gonna lose somehow.

Posted by: Dash at October 10, 2004 at 04:43 AM

Thank you and congratulations to the Aussies, truly great friends of the USA. From a greatful American in Nashville, TN.

Posted by: Jim F at October 10, 2004 at 04:44 AM

Aussies...you have stepped up to the plate with us every time..you did not let us down this time either..we will NOT let you down either...you have sent your message to the world..now it is our turn!!!

Art
California USA

Posted by: Art at October 10, 2004 at 04:50 AM

Congrats to the Aussies! You're the best! Go celebrate your victory! From an American friend and ally!

Posted by: Brian at October 10, 2004 at 04:50 AM

Great Job Australia.
Man, you guys are awesome!!!
I love Australia!!

Posted by: An American at October 10, 2004 at 04:54 AM

Thanks for sending us Rupert Murdoch, this Howard election, and Ac/Dc !

Posted by: Papertiger at October 10, 2004 at 04:54 AM

God bless Australia! For the last hundred years you've been America's most reliable ally. Here's to another century as drinking buddies, and, when necessary, companions in arms!

Posted by: Dissillusionist at October 10, 2004 at 04:56 AM

Congratulations and heartfelt thanks form this American to all Australians. Now let's go find some Jihadist ass to kick.

Posted by: DaveP. at October 10, 2004 at 04:57 AM

Yes! Congratulations Australia! I hope we Americans fare as well in a few weeks.

And I'm with the above posters who recommended Australian wines. They have some fantastic reds (I'm sure they have fantastic whites too, but I don't drink white wine much). Great way to indulge your taste buds, support Australia, and tie one on all at the same time.

Posted by: Joe R. the Unabrewer at October 10, 2004 at 05:07 AM

thank you, thank you, thanks a bunch to all Aussies. I am taking the advice of many Americans and buying some aussie wine. Hubby says it is great!!! As was posted above, we shall see if America has the courage of you Aussies and elect Bush!!!! Go coalition of the bribed!!!

Posted by: Janet Campbell at October 10, 2004 at 05:11 AM

By the way, when I was in Australia I visited a medium sized winery near Alice Springs that had an amazingly dry white. But over the years I couldn't find them on this side of the ocean and eventually forgot the vinyards name. Anybody over there give a hand on the whites (and maybe this one in particular).

Posted by: David at October 10, 2004 at 05:18 AM

From an American in Mexico, THANK YOU THANK YOU!!

I worked with your B-57 Canberras in Viet Nam. It is good to know the troops in Iraq will have the same kind of help.

Your wine is fine but would it be OK if I stick with the GREAT Aussie beers??

Posted by: JReid at October 10, 2004 at 05:23 AM

Got some Black Swan shiraz this morning to celebrate.
Do you Aussies let any good port out of the country? Do ya? Please?

Posted by: Richard Aubrey at October 10, 2004 at 05:29 AM

Congratulations to the coalition of the bribed and the coerced! We are so proud to have you with us. (from San Francisco, USA)

Posted by: Scott at October 10, 2004 at 05:31 AM

Thanks for the show of solidarity, mates. But you know, even if Howard had lost, we still woulda loved ya Aussies! (from the former shadow of the World Trade Center)

Posted by: steven at October 10, 2004 at 05:35 AM

You guys are awesome congratulations on holding onto your wonderful leader, and know that most Americans loathe what that fool Kerry is saying about our friends - Australians being the best among them.

Susan Dale
Washington, D.C.

Posted by: Susan Dale at October 10, 2004 at 05:36 AM

Should auld acquaintance be forgot?

NO! NO! NO!

Australia will be there!

Congratulations from Washington for demonstrating something we knew all along: you're the same people your grandparents and greatgrandparents were.

Posted by: Rob at October 10, 2004 at 05:39 AM

Loved reading these comments. What a hoot. Yay OZ.

Tip to my fellow yank wine-lovers. You can't go wrong with any of the reds OR whites from the Rosemount Estate label (a winery in New South Wales).

http://www.rosemountestates.com/

Posted by: oz-loving wine-o at October 10, 2004 at 05:46 AM

Thank you Australia!
Being a member of the "bribed & coerced" is a badge of honor as far as I and many other Americans are concerned. Thank you so much for standing by us.

Bribed & Coerced > Axis of Weasels

Posted by: BMC at October 10, 2004 at 05:48 AM

What a relief

For a while there I thought you were going to get all gutless and spineless a la Spain.

What the British press would have made of a Latham win doesn't bear thinking about.

All this and you're sticking it to the Indians

Fair dinkum

Posted by: London boy at October 10, 2004 at 05:52 AM

Congrats!

Posted by: Jan Haugland at October 10, 2004 at 05:55 AM

Great news Aussie Ladies and Gents!!

Reason has yet again triumphed.

This Yank appreciates PM Howard. As an aside, I wrote an online letter to him thanking him for his and your support in Iraq. Realizing it was a form letter, your government didn't have to spend the money on postage mailing me a response signed by PM Howard thanking me for my support, but it did.

Black Swan Chardonnay is way good, by the way.

Posted by: joe at October 10, 2004 at 05:56 AM

Well done Bruce and Sheila. You made the right decision. Fair dinkum!

Posted by: Joseph at October 10, 2004 at 05:57 AM

Congratulations, and effusive American thanks, to the people of Australia. Notwithstanding most of my fellow New Yorkers, the US has enough common sense to reject the McGovernite, dovish Kerry. An earlier post from Freedom's Slave was absolutely right on this point.

(Thanks also for the Go-Betweens and Radio Birdman, two musical gifts that never stop giving...)

Posted by: garyatlarge at October 10, 2004 at 05:59 AM

Thanks, mates. Although I know you did it for yourselves, still, thanks. We'll hold up our end of the bargain in the States soon enough. For today, though, I am an Australian. I have never doubted that you true Aussies have balls as big as the Outback -- I'm glad to look on 'em.

Posted by: Eric at October 10, 2004 at 06:03 AM

Yes the Aussies are really Gutsy and not a nation of wimps, I thought they might have done a Spain

Posted by: Paul Johnson at October 10, 2004 at 06:05 AM

I had the wonderful experience of spending a week on R&R in Sydney in 1969. I can't remember how many Aussies went out of their way to be kind to us, while pointing out that if it weren't for our fathers, they would be speaking Japanese. Now it is our turn to thank Australia for helping to keep us from having to speak French.

Posted by: Jim at October 10, 2004 at 06:06 AM

This is great news. Congratulations to Howard, God Bless Australia, and I'm so happy I could kiss a diseased wombat.

Posted by: Glen Wishard at October 10, 2004 at 06:09 AM

A Town Like Alice sang loud, clear and right on key! What a wonderful statement by the great Aussies to a world of navel gazers perched atop a picket fence.

Posted by: Terry Mann at October 10, 2004 at 06:11 AM

Thank you, Australia. Once more into the breach, eh?

Posted by: Brian J. Dunn (The Dignified Rant) at October 10, 2004 at 06:14 AM

Great round-up, Tim. Congratulations, stalwart Aussies! One admiring Texan's salute is here.

Posted by: Beldar at October 10, 2004 at 06:25 AM

America loves Australia! You are the exact opposite of Canada, and I mean that in the best possible way.

Posted by: Dennis Castle at October 10, 2004 at 06:26 AM

I'm a registered Democrat and New Yorker and I will be at the voting booth on election day to cast my vote for George Bush. I just hope that we here in the US can show the kind of courage and determination to fight this war on terrorism that Australia has shown.

Posted by: Kathy at October 10, 2004 at 06:29 AM

Aussies got balls!

Great to hear, made my Saturday morning.

Tucson, AZ

Posted by: Squatch at October 10, 2004 at 06:29 AM

All stand for the national anthem:

Aussie Aussie Aussie!
Oi! Oi! Oi!
Aussie Aussie Aussie!
Oi! Oi! Oi!
Aussie! Oi!
Aussie! Oi!
Aussie Aussie Aussie!
Oi! Oi! Oi!

Posted by: Jorge at October 10, 2004 at 06:32 AM

Nice going, fellers! Now y'all can celebrate by heaving Kerry's sister into the sea for us.

Posted by: Snake Eyes Jon Slim at October 10, 2004 at 06:34 AM

Warmest conratulations to Prime Minister Howard and all Australians. God Bless and keep up the good work. Nice to see there really are brave, stouthearted people left in this world (not Canada, I'm afraid). May the sun continue to shine bightly on your fair land.
May I never buy a bottle of French wine again!
Rawson's Retreat forever.

Posted by: Andrew Sandilands at October 10, 2004 at 06:35 AM

Congratulations Aussies, great friends, and brave people. Not only have you stood solidly behind your own troops, you've showed the world that you stand behind ours and the Brits, Italians and Poles as well. Truly a coalition of nations on the right side of history!

Posted by: EddieP at October 10, 2004 at 06:36 AM

What's all this blather about interest rates? Don't you all have fixed mortgages over there?

Posted by: Susan at October 10, 2004 at 06:37 AM

PS congrats on the victory. And I drink Rosemount Shiraz and Shiraz/Cab practically every evening. Great value for the money!

Posted by: Susan at October 10, 2004 at 06:39 AM

Congratulation to Aussies on their steadfast stand against militant Muslims in these days of global conflict between world ideologies: the ongoing wars between Western civilization and militant, fundamentalist Islam. Here's hoping indeed that we Yanks will prove as steadfast in our upcoming vote against militant Islam, against John Kerry and FOR George Bush, Jr.

Dr. Charles LaChance, libertarian & naturalist

Posted by: Dr. Charles LaChance at October 10, 2004 at 06:45 AM

Proves once and for all the aussie convicts really are clinically stupid.

Posted by: Davie Ellison at October 10, 2004 at 06:48 AM

One of the reasons I believe that the UN should never be trusted with any powers of governance (besides the corruption that was uncovered this week) is because I think we need independent, rights-respecting nations we can run to if our own governments ever go bad.

I don't plan on running out of the USA anytime soon, but I am glad that there is an Australia that I can run to ... a nation that once again demonstrates its committment to not only those inalienable rights that belong to Aussies, Americans, and "all men" -- but common sense over Utopian idealism.

Thank you!

Posted by: Rich Casebolt at October 10, 2004 at 06:49 AM

I love Australia! Congratulations on your wisdom! And thank you for being such a great FRIEND. Which is much more than an ally!

Oh, and fair dinkum!

(What does that mean? I don't know, but it looks kinda neat.)

Posted by: Syl at October 10, 2004 at 06:54 AM

Australia Rocks! How do you guys WALK with balls that size?

Posted by: Jim at October 10, 2004 at 06:58 AM

Good news from great friends. I only hope that here in the US we'll have the sense to follow your lead. I'll open a bottle of Rosemount Shiraz tonight in your honor. (No great effort, that. I drink wine every evening, and there's always a good Australian bottle in the rack.)

Posted by: Ossian at October 10, 2004 at 07:12 AM

Let Feedom Reign! With friends like the Aussies who needs the French or the Germans. Thanks for standing up with us!

Posted by: Dorothy Lampkin at October 10, 2004 at 07:15 AM

Congratulations, that is great news and I hope we can say the same thing in 24 days. The wife and I will celebrate with some Aussie wine tonight.

Posted by: Brett from Texas at October 10, 2004 at 07:45 AM

Thank you, Australia! May the US/Australia alliance continue to grow and strengthen. I'm on my way to go buy a bottle of Australian Shiraz.

Posted by: James at October 10, 2004 at 08:09 AM

Hey, I realize that Aussies often fairly complain about the lack of coverage of things Australian in the US media. And, sadly, I don't see enough coverage of this latest election in the US media. However, I find it rather interesting to note that both Reuters and the BBC seem to have this rather big news story rather obscured. I wonder if those two agencies would have reported things differently had Latham won. . .

Posted by: James at October 10, 2004 at 08:17 AM

I'm telling ya, it's all about the anglosphere, baby.

Posted by: Sean at October 10, 2004 at 08:17 AM

My favorite part of Howard's victory is how clearly it demonstrates the incompetence of the Australian left and the general good sense of the Australian people.

Posted by: Sean at October 10, 2004 at 08:22 AM

We just got back from the store with a Coonwarra Shiraz to celebrate-- yummy, yummy. I am so proud that my country has such a wise and steadfast friend. God Bless Australia!

Posted by: Shiloh Bucher at October 10, 2004 at 08:24 AM

Woo-hoo! Congratulations, Mr. Howard!

Congratulations, Australia!

Keep your fingers crossed for us.

Posted by: Barbara Skolaut at October 10, 2004 at 08:25 AM

Editor said:

As well, we should not misunderstand who the terrorists fear. It was not Aznar, it is not Howard and it is not W. - they fear the resolve of the voters. They just got b***hslapped, today.
Well said, Editor!

That statement needs to be on the front page of EVERY American paper before our election. It is the most essential truth in this world-wide war that we did not start, but we must - and will - END.

Posted by: Barbara Skolaut at October 10, 2004 at 08:30 AM

Thank God. I knew the Aussies wouldn't let us down.

Posted by: Dave at October 10, 2004 at 08:40 AM

Such great news! Hopefully it's a good omen for our upcoming elections. Rock on Aussies!

Posted by: zulubaby at October 10, 2004 at 08:51 AM

Howard wins in October, Bush in November.

How about next year, we get the Brits, Poles and Italians and go invade Iran together.

And after that, finally mop up Castro in Cuba.

LET FREEDOM REIGN!

Posted by: steve at October 10, 2004 at 09:03 AM

What can this Texan add that hasn't already been expressed? From my first meeting with some Aussie when my squadron hosted some RAAF P3C crews (learned ankle biting and how to wear pineapple hats) to my two visits to Oz (I never had to buy a drink). Any Aussie visitors to Houston I will gladly host (the wife would like to hear if some of the stories could possibly be true). We will be coming to Australia in 2006 to hopefully show our appreciation.

Posted by: bc at October 10, 2004 at 09:22 AM

What can this Texan add that hasn't already been expressed? From my first meeting with some Aussie when my squadron hosted some RAAF P3C crews (learned ankle biting and how to wear pineapple hats) to my two visits to Oz (I never had to buy a drink). Any Aussie visitors to Houston I will gladly host (the wife would like to hear if some of the stories could possibly be true). We will be coming to Australia in 2006 to hopefully show our appreciation.

Posted by: bc at October 10, 2004 at 09:23 AM

Tim,

Congratulations to your best Prime Minister since Sir Robert Menzies.

All is not so bad in the world, despite what naysayers would have you believe.

Congratulations, sir. You Aussies; you guys really are the toughest, best, and the greatest!

Good on ya!

Posted by: Aaron at October 10, 2004 at 09:23 AM

What can this Texan add that hasn't already been expressed? From my first meeting with some Aussie when my squadron hosted some RAAF P3C crews (learned ankle biting and how to wear pineapple hats) to my two visits to Oz (I never had to buy a drink). Any Aussie visitors to Houston I will gladly host (the wife would like to hear if some of the stories could possibly be true). We will be coming to Australia in 2006 to hopefully show our appreciation.

Posted by: bc at October 10, 2004 at 09:24 AM

What can this Texan add that hasn't already been expressed? From my first meeting with some Aussies when my squadron hosted some RAAF P3C crews (learned ankle biting and how to wear pineapple hats) to my two visits to Oz (I never had to buy a drink). Any Aussie visitors to Houston I will gladly host (the wife would like to hear if some of the stories could possibly be true). We will be coming to Australia in 2006 to hopefully show our appreciation.

Posted by: bc at October 10, 2004 at 09:25 AM

I WAS (MOSTLY) RIGHT

Howard is the strongest supporter of the US-AUS alliance in the past generation of AUS history.

His committment of the ADF to Op Iraqi Freedom, ostensibly based on the (false) WMD premise, was actually pay-back for USMC help in TIMOR and pay-forward for US help against INDON. Non-neurotic Australians are grateful for the alliance and mateship with former members of the British Empire.

Please note that the bulk of ADF troops were committed during the safe invasion period and were withdrawn during the dangerous occupation period. Howard is a canny fellow.

The AUS housing boom was the biggest reason that the LN/P maintained its existing electoral advantage. The statist bribes that both parties handed out to the electorate in the campaign period would have largely cancelled each other out.

But the LN/P's significant electoral gains - which I predicted - has been a resounding popular vindication of Howards cultural conservatism and political nationalism.

Howards AUS border-protecting and US alliance-promoting actions caused the Cultural Left to undergo a frenzy of Howard-hating. I (wrongly) thought that the LN/P would go backwards in the luvvie-infested Senate, paying a nominal price for various scandals.

The gains made by Cultural Conservatives, and the abandonment of Economic Rationalism by Howard, mark the most significant sea-change in political opinion in a generation. The Cultural Progressives, and Economic Rationalists, must be devastated beyond words.

Posted by: Jack Strocchi at October 10, 2004 at 09:28 AM

Good on ya, Tim!
We love Australia, too, and we love John Howard!
Today was a good day for the human race with Howard's reelection and a free (if somewhat wild) election in Afghanistan.
I celebrate this as a fellow blogger wearing my pajamas and my excellent UGG Aussie slippers!

Posted by: Jennie Taliaferro at October 10, 2004 at 09:33 AM

By the way, I've just broken open a bottle of Aussie wine in your honor. :-p

Posted by: Barbara Skolaut at October 10, 2004 at 09:37 AM

My apologies. Out of town and having to use dial up instead of cable modem is no fun.

Posted by: bc at October 10, 2004 at 09:40 AM

Hurray for Australia!! God bless you all!! Please keep the US in your thoughts/prayers/good wishes on November 2!! We'll need it!

Posted by: Sharon Ferguson at October 10, 2004 at 09:45 AM

Thank you Australia!

Posted by: John Lanius at October 10, 2004 at 10:00 AM

Good on ya from California! Here's hoping my countrymen have the same good sense come November 2nd!

Posted by: Sean M. at October 10, 2004 at 10:06 AM

I agree that we should probably shoot Kerry's sister. It seems necessary! What do you think?

Great news from and for Australia! Thanks, Mate.

Posted by: Texas at October 10, 2004 at 10:12 AM

Stout-hearted Australia! Heartfelt thanks from this American. I'd want an Australian in my foxhole any time, any where, fighting shoulder to shoulder.

Posted by: Steve Weingartner at October 10, 2004 at 10:24 AM

David,

I visited a medium sized winery near Alice Springs that had an amazingly dry white

That would be Chateau Hornsby . "Australia’s furthest winery from anywhere!"

Posted by: Janice at October 10, 2004 at 10:44 AM

Congratulations Australia! Thank you for standing with us in the war on terror and thanks for re-upping John Howard. I love you.

Another Yank.

Posted by: don at October 10, 2004 at 11:10 AM

I would like to thank you all for standing by us in this war on terror. Now, onto the big question... can Bush win reelection? Pray for us in the U.S. Hopefully, we will have enough of the wisdom that the Australians just demonstrated to keep Bush in office. Congratulations Australia!!!!

Posted by: Matt at October 10, 2004 at 11:16 AM

In spite of mike carlton, many of those on 2UE and 2GB have been more down to earth. and whilst I admit to watching the US news more on cable recently, I have listened a fair bit in the past to talk back response. People in Australia are down to earth. John Laws had a radio poll with about 10,000 callers (from memory) before going into iraq. About 97% of callers voted to take Saddam out.

As you point out Tim, theres a section of the media here that is as biased against the war on terror and the involved in it as the seen in the US in the NY Times, but this is a vote to the overwhelming practicality and down to earth nature of Australia.

After all, whether or not president bush was awol 30 years ago has very little to do with the great job hes doing now. I dont for a minute believe he was, as it happens. But we can see from the demeanour of the man today that his character is very upright. Therefore seeing his character today this does not fit the picture.

Confucious said. "to predict the future, look at the past", take a look at Lathams past and Kerrys past. Very bad, on record, and not in dispute.

Even the WMD issue. yes, saddam intended to develop them. IF he had any he had hidden them and we cannot find any trace. He did have some, and he was intending to re develop them and he was bribing France.

He killed his own people in large numbers. Now if our intelligence had a few errors here and there that does not really change the overall picture.

I am glad we as Australians are able to see through all the crap the US liberal media, aka the Associated Press which has recently had numerous articles on the internet of its mis-doings, including suing Canadian newspapers for changing the word 'freedom fighters' to what they really are 'terrorists'.

For their twisted articles villianizing President Bush.

Now Howard has not made this a election issue. Howard is a clever politician no doubt.

But had Howard lost, we would see Australia isolated in this region of the world without allies. I cannot imagine France ever giving a damn. Maybe they will test some more nukes here.

Very bad move.

This is great for our country..... Yes labour had a few points regarding looking after medicare and the poor, but the best way is to provide everyone jobs.

No one had faith that Latham would build up an economy that would increase jobs.

So I now hope that we will see the neck and neck poll results in the USA translate into an overwhelming Bush win.

CONGRATULATIONS JOHN HOWARD !!!!!!!

Posted by: dawn at October 10, 2004 at 11:24 AM

Very happy John, very happy indeed.

Margo - please go away; just go away.

All those Australian "journalists" like Megalegonis, Steketee, McGeough who have backed Labor so strongly in this and past campaigns - please go away; just go away.

Posted by: johnn at October 10, 2004 at 11:38 AM

Yeh, yippee, great, terrific, woo-hoo, Australia's great, love you mate, etc etc etc (if you can't tell I am being sarcastic).

Yes, please all enjoy the pain of this sad little Aussie today who.

Posted by: Darlene at October 10, 2004 at 11:41 AM

Ozzie Ozzie Ozzie Oi Oi OI!!!

I just hope we Americans follow your lead.

Posted by: monkeyboy at October 10, 2004 at 11:42 AM

I meant to say "who sure as heck didn't vote for the Liberals/Nationals/Family First or any other associated grouping. See I am so sad I can't even finish my sentences.

Posted by: Darlene at October 10, 2004 at 11:43 AM

As I hold my imaginary Castlemain XXXX in my hand and toast our valiant ally and his stunning good news over a delightful plate of spaghetti with Polish sausage, I contemplate that truly marvelous Australian word, 'bludger' Kerry truly bludged on his mates in Vietnam and for that he must go down to defeat - You'll see! God Bless Australia! Advance, Australia Fair!

Posted by: cottus at October 10, 2004 at 11:45 AM

Richard Aubrey: Try to get your hands on some port from the Bethany or St Hallett wineries in SA's Barossa Valley. Yum yum. Or even better, a Campbell's Tokay from Rutherglen. "Liquid dessert", I call it.

Besides the Coalition retaining power, the best part of the night was watching Kerry O'Brien's face become progressively glummer as the night went on. By the end of coverage he looked like he was about to cry. Heh.

Posted by: Sasha Castel at October 10, 2004 at 12:11 PM

I have whoopeed myself sensless- so thrilled that that John Howard won- and it really was his election-no doubt.
He may not have the 'Glamour or Charisma'!!! some would ascribe to the 'Clintons' but I want our leaders to be stout of heart, have the courage of their convictions and be able to tell right from wrong, and be responsible with MY money- and yes a 'father figure' but one that shows a that he can ride the storm and still retain his dignity & humour.
It has been such a tough 3 years since 9/11 and this Aussie will never lose sight off nor forget that day - when I am about to grumble, I flick on the Images I saved of the World Trade Centre collapsing in flames.
We accepted that day, was war on us all, and we do not give in to bullies and dictators.
We older ones remember what the Americans did for us in WW1 in Britain, The Pacific/Coral Sea and Asia. We may be only 20 million but we give of the best we have to our friends and we do not stand by and see your great leader insulted and not take action. All jokes aside when time are calm we love to take the mickey or is it 'piss' out of ourselves and you.
George Bush has shown such courage as has John Howard these past 3 years and NO one insults our good friend. We choose our friends but cannot pick our family so forgive us our brats!
We have ceased buying French Brandy and Cognac now become 'Hopelessly addicted to (YOU) Wild Turkey and Jack Daniels Bourbon- FAIR EXCHANGE FOR YOU GETTING TO KNOW OUR GREAT WINES AND BEER-and cheeses-beef etc etc No more Spanish oil/olives/ Sherry/ wines or ham
No French perfume/wine or cheese-
where possible support Israel- I am not a Jew but she needs friends and the EU-France and Germany have imposed sanctions on Israel- whilst they want them lifted on Libya and Sudan. and MADE BIG MONEY FROM SADDAM.
Please God - that Bush returns and then we can really'kick ass' as you say so well.
America on our holiday destination and bugger the terrorists

Posted by: Rose at October 10, 2004 at 12:22 PM

Good news! You folks have always known how to fight, and what's worth fighting for. We'd have hated to lose you.

Congratulations to Australia, man-for-man one of the countries that you *least* want to be on the bad side of. . .

Posted by: Derek Lowe at October 10, 2004 at 12:31 PM

I plan to buy a lot of Fosters and Yellowtail Shiraz in celebration.

Posted by: Mike at October 10, 2004 at 12:46 PM

Whew, this was the best news all day. It's great when a true friend comes through, even though I knew you would.

Posted by: Matt in Denver at October 10, 2004 at 12:51 PM

Here's an American that LOVES Australia and Australians today. Thanks for being our best allies and having the courage to support an unpopular but correct policy on the most important battle of our times. I am encouraged by your election (maybe our voters aren't stupid either) and hope that we can stand with you after November.

Posted by: Tom Heywood at October 10, 2004 at 12:58 PM

Not since WWII has Australia stood so tall.

Well... except for all the other times...

God bless down under!

;)

Posted by: DANEgerus at October 10, 2004 at 01:30 PM

God bless the Aussies! Way to go!

Posted by: Eric at October 10, 2004 at 01:52 PM

Sue was saying that her joy at the news pf Howard's victory was doubled by the news that Jacques Derrida had died.

But it all depends what you mean by "died", doesn't it? I mean, one person's "death" is another person's ... um ... aaah ... "text", or "discourse", or something.

TFK

Posted by: TFK at October 10, 2004 at 02:04 PM

I am so happy to hear the common Aussie stand and tell the terrorists of the world, "WE WILL FIGHT YOU AND YOU SHALL NOT STAND!"

And at the same time shame the Europe's of the world by declaring, "WE WILL WAR TO DEFEND OURSELVES AND OUR WAY OF LIFE!"

BTW some one wrote and thanked the US for not letting the Aussies speak Japanese, I was reminded that France would also be speaking German if not for the USA...but then again in the current world, I guess they're working that one out today. I wonder if the Romance languages of Spain and France will work together with German as a common language—no doubt soon to be the lingua franca of the EU (Oh God, I didn’t say that did I?)

HOWEVER, the Aussies, they bought paid for their victory with their own blood and sacrifice!

Finally I would salute My Aussie friends:

YOU have fought beside us in the same foxholes over 100 years and have sent a greater percentage of your young men into those battles than we, the USA. So, I raise my glass and drink, “TO AUSTRALIA, WHO FORTHRIGHTLY STANDS TALL AND PROUD. THANK YOU FOR YOUR ENDURING FRIENDSHIP!”


Posted by: Michael in SC at October 10, 2004 at 02:55 PM

Aussies ROCK!

Posted by: Melanie in NC at October 10, 2004 at 03:05 PM

Not that i got all the bombastic and flowery speech out of my head...

Must be Aussie somewhere...

Well I won't back down
No I won't back down
You can stand me up at the gates of hell
But I won't back down

No I'll stand my ground, won't be turned around
And I'll keep this world from draggin me down
gonna stand my ground
... and I won't back down

(I won't back down...)
Hey baby, there ain't no easy way out
(and I won't back down...)
hey I will stand my ground
and I won't back down

Well I know what's right, I got just one life
in a world that keeps on pushin me around
but I'll stand my ground
...and I won't back down
— Tom Petty

Posted by: Michael in SC at October 10, 2004 at 03:11 PM

Thanks U.S. people for all the kind words; we thought it was going to be close.
DAVIE ELLISON , double dare you to say that to a Tasmanian timber worker.

Posted by: Paulm at October 10, 2004 at 03:45 PM

Thank you, our Australian Brothers and Sisters. Thank you for standing with us shoulder to shoulder; as you have for a century. And most especially, for standing with us in this war, which began for both of us earlier than most people realize. During the Iranian Hostage Crisis in the late 70's, I remember your government sending your aircraft carrier MELBOURNE to join our fleet on "Gonzo Station" off of Iran without being asked. When they radioed asking where to take station on our fleet, someone asked why they were there. Your battle group commander answered, "Because this is where free men should be.". When we were attacked on 9/11, I remember that it was YOU who invoked the ANZUS treaty that very day to stand with us, before we asked. At the same time the New Zealanders cravenly abrogated the treaty and turned their backs on us. One of the best definitions of a friend is, "someone who runs towards you while the rest of the world is running away". You are truly our friends [and more], and we owe you. Just ask, and it's yours.

Posted by: Subotai Bahadur at October 10, 2004 at 03:57 PM

"I love this country for proving me wrong. I love Australia."

I'd say "we're all Australians today", but then I'd have to kick my own ass for paraphrasing a French paper. So I'll just say that this is one yank who's feeling funny in the pants about Australia today too.

Posted by: Dan at October 10, 2004 at 04:22 PM

'Gough "truiumphed" in 1972, not 75.'

Margo: Quite right; it was common sense that "truiumphed" in '75.

;)

Posted by: Ted Seay at October 10, 2004 at 04:30 PM

You all know you are going to get kicked of the Socialist Republic of Bloggers with talk like this.

Posted by: Zach at October 10, 2004 at 04:49 PM

"I love Australia."

Yep. So do we Yanks, pal. So do we.

Congrats from the (still) Left Coast (CA) of the US!

Posted by: kobekko at October 10, 2004 at 05:29 PM

Congrats to John Howard and all those who voted for his reelection. Please be sure you have our support and gratitude for standing with us in this ugly business. We in Wyoming will not forget!

Posted by: Bill Erickson at October 10, 2004 at 05:41 PM

Some one mentioned splitting the money you give Egypt with us 50/50- Na we don't want your money-just fair trade- we Aussies like to pay our own way as far as possible but you can discount some of our Military Hardware and keep supporting Israel-She is doing a mighty job holding back those Terrorist Fanatics and if she goes under we all pay the price.
I have been carefuly reading the history of the Middle East since 9/11 and Israel does not have to aplogise or give one cm of land to Palestine.
I was so shocked to learn the history of the Jews-
feel great shame for all our societies have subjected them to.
All hatred of them comes from Muslims, Fascists and communists, Princes of the Realms and Church who wished to divert attention from their own corruption by transfering their guilt onto the Jews.
I am not a Jew- just a Aussie Farmer's wife- but we certainly are Zionists now. We are all family whatever creed or colour as long as we believe in the same ideals-the right to freedom, work and justice not just for ourselves but all who hope and look to us and join with us at heart.
Bless us all and Israel- her soldiers are truly brave young people as well as the Aussies and American heros
and of course all those in the coalition

Posted by: Rose at October 10, 2004 at 05:44 PM

Australia- that is one hard-ass, no bullsh*t country.

Much love from NYC to the folks down under.

Posted by: new yorker at October 10, 2004 at 06:41 PM

Thanks Aussies. Your US cousins needed that! Now let's keep at the task and finish this job. It's clear the Euros don't want any part of being responsible and free citizens of the world, so we'll have to stand together. No one we'd rather be next to than you guys from Down Under.

Posted by: Jerry at October 10, 2004 at 07:52 PM

We Americans have not been shy about praising Tony Blair over the last couple of years, and rightfully so. He has stood with us despite enormous pressure from within and without his own party.

That said, I think we have largely been remiss in expressing our gratitude to John Howard and Australia. As touching as it was to hear Bush proclaim that America has no truer friend than Great Britain, I don't think that's entirely accurate. I hope he corrects that (as much as he can, diplomatically and all) in his next State of The Union Address.

People of Australia, please accept the congratulations and thanks of an extremely grateful United States of America.

Posted by: Doug Ferguson at October 10, 2004 at 09:01 PM

To tell you the truth, I'd love Australia even if you'd elected Latham, but I'm glad you chose Howard!

Better friends the US could not have asked for.

Posted by: tom beta 2 at October 10, 2004 at 09:51 PM

The 'squeeze has been eased' - on the Labor backbenches!

Posted by: Graeme at October 10, 2004 at 10:59 PM

Good for Australia.

Had I to choose one nation other than America to live in, it would be Australia.

Posted by: addison at October 10, 2004 at 11:06 PM

"Howard wins in October, Bush in November.

How about next year, we get the Brits, Poles and Italians and go invade Iran together.

And after that, finally mop up Castro in Cuba."

Fuck Cuba. First we take out Canada.

JLC from Montreal

Posted by: jlchydro at October 10, 2004 at 11:24 PM

Sasha.
Thanks. I've started my Christmas list with Aussie port.
But I got one of my presents in your election and look forward to another in November.
Win or lose, it's good to have your friends with you.
Ancient saying: "Bare is brotherless back."

Posted by: Richard Aubrey at October 11, 2004 at 12:13 AM

"I love Australia."

So do I, Tim. So does just about everybody.

Jay Lewis
Seattle

Posted by: Jay Lewis at October 11, 2004 at 12:23 AM

Farewell CABBYWHACKER! A great day.

Posted by: Roger_D at October 11, 2004 at 12:36 AM

Tim, is there any chance we can get you to endorse Kerry? Just in case.

Posted by: Richard McEnroe at October 11, 2004 at 02:20 AM

Thank you for not going "Spain" on us. Thank you for ignoring Senator Kerry's sister, she is a disgrace to our country. The Austalian-American alliance stands! Congratulations from many here in sunny Colorado!

Posted by: Jeff Miller-Denver, CO at October 11, 2004 at 02:46 AM

Congratulations Australia!!! After reading this long list of congrats, I was thinking that maybe some of you guys should get a room! ha ha

I do like that idea of Aussie wine....I'm gonna get some today and drink it with my junk food while I watch my NFL team kick ass! Go Bush!

Posted by: dickd at October 11, 2004 at 03:34 AM

Our gravest Thanks to the Ozzy People for choosing to stand with America when so many here would fight to have you run...but, all things have caveats.

I've been involved in Constitutional issues for most of my life, and, it has not escaped me that the People of Australia have been under assault from all sides, since Port Arthur. Quite often, Mr. Howard was leading the charge.

Stand we now, on the Beach of another Gallipoli, Bayonets fixed, Magazines empty, nothing up the Spout. To our left stands a tall, slender, dour-faced figure, thoughtfully stroking th' Bugle in hand, ignoring his past, pondering his future, and, planning victory speeches.

War is Hell, but, enemies within are often more dangerous than Turks on th' Hill. We thank Mr. Howard from the bottom of our hearts for standing with us, but, like Mr. Kerry, he has a past...of standing with the UN to the detriment of "The People.

A Bayonet is little comfort when the Magazine is empty and there's nothing up the Spout...especially when the dour-faced figure has been heard questioning the need for Bayonets.

Ponder that.

(With Reservation of All Constitutional Rights)
Gordon Arthur DeSpain
Pasadena, Texas
ex-King of the Punching Bag, at Gilley's

Posted by: Warsong at October 11, 2004 at 06:12 AM

Kudos to Australia, a nation and people worthy of the highest respect and admiration! I'm so PROUD you are our allies, we must be doing something right. And I'm equally proud France, Germany and Spain, along with the rest of the mujahadeen, hates our guts, and for the same reason!

Posted by: Pam at October 11, 2004 at 07:38 AM

Just for everyone's info - the Iraq war was pretty much a non issue in the Australian election. It was about the (very healthy) economy.

Posted by: guyc at October 11, 2004 at 09:12 AM

Sorry to burst your bubble folks, but Howard's win on Saturday had NOTHING to do with Australia's participation in the Iraqi Coalition. I'm a Yank that his lived in Australia for the last ten years or so. Howard did all he could to not even mention the war in Iraq. His whole campaign was based on sound economic management (Australia has suffered no recession, has relatively low unemployment, the govt budget is in comfortable surplus, interest rates are low, etc.) and the inexperience of his ALP opponent Mark Latham (only 43 yrs old, been the opposition leader for just 10 months, can't be trusted to run the economy, etc.).
The centrepiece of his campaign, repeated ad nauseam in campaign events and ads, was that interest rates (and thus the mortgage payments of Australia's heavily indebted homeowners) would go up under a Labor govt. They were even so helpful as to provide estimates of the increases in the average mortgage payment if rates started to rise.
On the other side, Latham and the ALP did not make opposition to the war Iraq central to their opposition campaign (they supported the original deployment after all). The ALP tried to run on its traditional strengths of education and health and Howard effectively countered that with generous spending promises of his own. Howard ran a decidedly UNconservative campaign.
Not to mention the fact that Howard has already pulled just about all of Australia's troops out of Iraq - down to about 300 from a high of 2000 or so.

Posted by: jccaust at October 11, 2004 at 11:10 AM

jccaust — How long could you live in Australia without reading a newspaper or watching television? Labor and Labor's supporters tried to make Iraq part of the election and failed. Labor tried to back off from it but their howling dogs at the SMH and the Age and ABC couldn't be called to heel and continued to throw it in the voters' faces.

Posted by: richard mcenroe at October 11, 2004 at 11:49 AM

ROSE
thanks for your heartfelt comments - very warm and touching.
Hopefully Israel wil no longer be alone in its fight against Islamofascism and eurabian antisemetism.

Posted by: davo at October 11, 2004 at 12:08 PM

With friends like you, we'll kick the terrorist's a**es! Congratulations Australia! We Love You!

Posted by: Kathianne at October 11, 2004 at 12:31 PM

Rose,
You might be "just a Aussie Farmer's wife" but your post just about sums up what, I believe, a lot of us think.

Subotai Bahadur,
you're embarassing me with what you said. We'd do the same for anyone that is a friend, just as you would.

I remember when the Argentinians invaded the Falklands. One of our destroyer escorts was in the U.S. at the time and they immediately began topping their fuel tanks and ammo as they expected to sail to that region. The point I'd like to get to is that though our participation was not required by the Brits, it was the support of the U.S. in providing the fuel and ammo unhesitatingly to us that says it all about how you feel about your allies, even when you don't need to involve yourself. Brits, Aussies, Yanks, will the three ever be really separated when the chips are down?

Posted by: Lofty at October 11, 2004 at 01:05 PM

Congratulations to John Howard and all Aussies! We Americans are deeply grateful for your stalwart support and are proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with such brave and loyal friends.
When the chips are down, we know we can count on you. One down and two to go. With thanks and great respect, an American admirer

Posted by: elizabeth fradkin at October 11, 2004 at 01:37 PM

Congratulations Prime Minister Howard,

I had the honor of serving with Aussies in Viet Nam and now they are beside us fighting in Iraq.
Thank you Australians.

My son was recently at the Octoberfest in Munich and met some Aussie veterans of Iraq. He thanked them for their service. They responded; "Its no big thing. You Yanks are our mates and when you're in a fight, we're in it with you."

Thank God for Australia!

MG Schober

Posted by: MG (ret) Frank J Schober at October 11, 2004 at 01:37 PM

Congratulations to John Howard and all Aussies! We Americans are deeply grateful for your stalwart support and are proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with such brave and loyal friends.
When the chips are down, we know we can count on you. One down and two to go. With thanks and great respect, an American admirer

Posted by: elizabeth fradkin at October 11, 2004 at 01:38 PM

Congratulations to John Howard and all Aussies! We Americans are deeply grateful for your stalwart support and are proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with such brave and loyal friends.
When the chips are down, we know we can count on you. One down and two to go. With thanks and great respect, an American admirer

Posted by: elizabeth fradkin at October 11, 2004 at 01:38 PM

Some people call George W. Bush 'cowboy' as an insult. My heroes are cowboys (Gary Cooper in "High Noon", Tom Selleck in "Monte Walsh", Paul Hogan in "Crocodile Dundee", George W. Bush in "Either you are with us, or you are with the terrorists.") Australia is a hell of a cowboy. Thanks, mate.

Posted by: Larry Jordan at October 11, 2004 at 01:40 PM

There are only four countries in which I could bear to live: America, England, Australia and New Zealand. If I weren't too old to be much use to the Aussies and Kiwis, I'd think about migrating threre. I tell my kid to go all the time. Your people have grit, character, self-pride, a sense of homor, and Americans love you genetically. that's right. We have a gene which turns on at 14 and makes us love all the Aussies. It wasn't our business to tell you who to vote for although I understand Kerry's sister tried. We trusted you to do what was right for Australia which is exactly what you're supposed to do. To hell what Kerry's horse-faced sister tells you to do.

E. K. Gregory

Posted by: Elizabeth Gregory at October 11, 2004 at 02:15 PM

There are only four countries in which I could bear to live: America, England, Australia and New Zealand. If I weren't too old to be much use to the Aussies and Kiwis, I'd think about migrating threre. I tell my kid to go all the time. Your people have grit, character, self-pride, a sense of homor, and Americans love you genetically. that's right. We have a gene which turns on at 14 and makes us love all the Aussies. It wasn't our business to tell you who to vote for although I understand Kerry's sister tried. We trusted you to do what was right for Australia which is exactly what you're supposed to do. To hell what Kerry's horse-faced sister tells you to do.

E. K. Gregory

Posted by: Elizabeth Gregory at October 11, 2004 at 02:20 PM

I think the libs masterstroke was their slogan-
"MORE POOLS FOR PRIVATE SCHOOLS"

Posted by: marklatham at October 11, 2004 at 08:45 PM

Nah, it was

"Latham's a fuckhead".

Posted by: Quentin George at October 11, 2004 at 09:58 PM

two elizabeths

two beautiful messages

lovin' you both

Posted by: ilibcc at October 11, 2004 at 10:26 PM

The only country to side with the U.S. in every
war for the last 100 years!!

It's a day of extreme pride for me>and ex Vietnam
Vet who remembers those Aussies in that theater
as well! Big as trees they were and dressed like
they knew they could kick anyone's -ss!

God, I'm as proud of you now as I was in awe of
you back then!

Posted by: Tim Gordon at October 12, 2004 at 03:06 AM

Congratulations and sincerest thanks to the people of Australia.

Posted by: mbrazeal at October 12, 2004 at 03:08 AM

I had a good laugh out of the comments posted above.You Yanks really think you are the center of the world, don't you, and that your concerns are necessarily ours as well. If you had followed the campaign here you would have known that Iraq and the alliance with the US had very little to do with it.The issue played a minor role in the debate between the main contenders (which allegedly Latham 'won') and after that virtually disappeared out of sight.

Howard mainly campaigned on the economy and the claim that under Labour interest rates would inevitably rise (a palpable nonsense seeing that interest rates have global rather than local causes). Labour campaigned on issues of social welfare (public education, medicare etc.). My guess is that Howard's claim on interest rates won the day. Many Australians are mortgaged to the hilt and are far more worried about interest rates than about Al Queda which so far has operated far from their beds. Also, the number of Australian troops in Iraq is negligible (800-odd)and they have taken no casualties.

A poll last year seemed to show that 70 % of Australians were against the country's involvement in Iraq but both candidates seemed to have understood that the issue provided no 'traction' for them and that domestic concerns weighed far more heavily with the electorate.

Aram

Posted by: aram at October 12, 2004 at 05:19 PM

Aram - Agreed, they're hilarious! Most of the people commenting above seem to think Australians voted on whether or not to support America. Were Americans always so clueless when it came to the knowing what went on in the rest of the world?

Posted by: guyc at October 13, 2004 at 09:02 AM

he only won three elections you retard and and only because he took a tip from bush and rigged it

Posted by: angry commie pinko at October 14, 2004 at 01:46 AM

Hmmm, no, actually commie, you are definently wrong... let me count it out so your poor head doesn't hurt so bad -

1996,1998,2001,2004... I do believe that's four.. so sad that you never passed basic Yr. 7 Mathematics.

As for the other coments, well, the Iraqi war was mentioned fairly commonly by Latham and the leftist counterparts known as the Greens (or watermelon party). The electorate, however, made it clear that no amount of braying and whinging about the war would make them vote out a man who knows what he's doing and to install a man who is more likely to punch foreign heads of state in the mouth than to shake their hand.

You lefties make me sick! Especially when you protest about giving other people the right to free speech, which is what you are doing then... hypocrites!

Thanks for the comments by the rest of you - at least this world is not going to fall into a Communist-Socialist toilet anytime in the near future....

Posted by: TwistedEar at October 14, 2004 at 02:55 AM

What a disgusting thread. "Latham's a fuckhead"? I suppose this is the 'intelligence' of Australian voters, Tim? I am ashamed to live in a country full of such self-serving and self-righteous people. I went to one of Australia's leading private schools (on a scholarship I might add, I am not rich) and they have recently built a performance arts centre with a fucking recording studio! That's to go with 6 ovals, a swimming pool and some boatsheds right on the river! How can people condemn a funding system which takes money from these schools and diverts it into schools which barely have enough classrooms?!

I'm tired of stressing about this, but I have learned over the past few days that generally people who voted for Howard are utterly self-interested and most don't actually understand politics enough to discuss it properly. I am NOT defending Latham, but I AM condemning the proven liar that is our re-elected Prime Minister. Call me a communist if you want, it will only confirm your total lack of maturity.

Posted by: TommyGunnz at October 14, 2004 at 10:23 AM

Also, I would like to remind any Americans who read this thread that US intereference in the Middle East is EXACTLY what caused September 11 in the first place. That is all.

Posted by: TommyGunnz at October 14, 2004 at 10:26 AM