# Obama Wins Now What? > The 2008 election results signal a tectonic shift in American power as a historic victory in Chicago meets a looming economic crisis and new digital frontiers. - **Show:** [The No Agenda Show](https://search.noagendashow.net/index.md) - **Episode:** 55 - **Published:** 2008-11-05 - **Length:** 1h 15m - **Topics:** Obama Victory, [Proposition 8](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/proposition-8.md), CNN Hologram, [Market Volatility](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/market-volatility.md), [Internet Censorship](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/internet-censorship.md), Kennedy Pinch - **Web page:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/55-obama-wins-now-what ## About this episode Barack Obama secures the 2008 presidential election as crowds gather at the White House to celebrate the transition of power from George W. Bush. Despite rumors of martial law, the peaceful handover begins in Chicago behind massive bulletproof glass partitions designed to protect the President-elect. The victory is framed as a rejection of the outgoing administration rather than a specific mandate for Democratic spending, while international observers like the BBC face criticism for their technical misunderstanding of the American electoral college. Jesse Jackson was seen in tears during the victory rally as John McCain delivered a concession speech praised for its grace. In California, Proposition 8 appears headed for passage, revealing a demographic shift where high black voter turnout for Obama coincided with support for the gay marriage ban. Meanwhile, CNN debuted a 3D hologram system featuring Wolf Blitzer to maximize election night advertising revenue. Financial analysts including Erin Burnett and Gordon Brown monitor the Dow Jones as it faces volatility comparable to the 1929 market crash, while Australian authorities move to implement a mandatory internet filter similar to the Great Firewall of China. Barack Obama utilized a specific rhetorical style known as the Kennedy pinch to move away from his professorial roots and connect with the electorate. The hosts admit their previous predictions of a McCain-Giuliani victory were wrong, citing the economic collapse as the deciding factor. A $100 bet with John Markoff of the New York Times concludes as the focus shifts to a potential power struggle between Nancy Pelosi and the new executive branch. ## Chapters Each chapter's transcript is at its own link. The whole transcript is at https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/55-obama-wins-now-what/transcript.md. ### 1. Barack Obama Election Victory, Bush Martial Law Rumors (0:01–2:42) The 2008 presidential election results trigger celebrations and protests outside the White House as Barack Obama is declared the winner. Rumors regarding President George W. Bush declaring martial law to stay in power are dismissed as the transition of power begins. Observers note a "hey hey goodbye" sentiment among crowds gathered at the executive mansion. Keywords: [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [george w. bush](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/george-w-bush.md), [white house](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/white-house.md), [martial law](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/martial-law.md), [election night](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/election-night.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/55-obama-wins-now-what/chapter/1.md) ### 2. American Racism Perceptions, British Media Commentary (2:43–4:18) The election of a black president is cited as evidence to counter international perceptions of systemic racism in the United States. Commentary focuses on how the British media portrays the American South and the likelihood of the United Kingdom electing a black Prime Minister in the near future. Keywords: [racism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/racism.md), [united kingdom](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/united-kingdom.md), southern accent, [prime minister](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/prime-minister.md), election impact [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/55-obama-wins-now-what/chapter/2.md) ### 3. Presidential Security, Bulletproof Glass at Acceptance Speech (4:18–7:41) Security concerns for President-elect Barack Obama highlight the use of large bulletproof glass partitions during his acceptance speech in Chicago. Discussions center on the necessity of extreme protection measures and the inherent dangers of large public events. Speculation arises regarding the configuration of the security screens and the potential involvement of organized entities in historical presidential threats. Keywords: [secret service](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/secret-service.md), [bulletproof glass](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bulletproof-glass.md), [assassination](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/assassination.md), [homeland security](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/homeland-security.md), [acceptance speech](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/acceptance-speech.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/55-obama-wins-now-what/chapter/3.md) ### 4. Jesse Jackson Emotions, BBC Election Coverage Critique (7:41–9:10) Jesse Jackson is observed in tears during the election night coverage, leading to speculation about his thoughts on the historic moment. The BBC's coverage of the U.S. election is criticized for a lack of technical understanding regarding the electoral college and the timing of poll closures. Keywords: [jesse jackson](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jesse-jackson.md), [bbc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bbc.md), election coverage, [hillary clinton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hillary-clinton.md), [bill clinton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bill-clinton.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/55-obama-wins-now-what/chapter/4.md) ### 5. Obama Acceptance Speech, McCain Concession Analysis (9:11–12:18) John McCain's concession speech is praised for its uplifting tone, while Barack Obama's acceptance speech receives mixed reviews for sounding like a repetitive campaign stump speech. Analysis focuses on Obama's oratorical style, his professional cadence, and the moral tone he sets for the country as a motivational speaker. Keywords: [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [john mccain](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-mccain.md), [concession speech](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/concession-speech.md), [acceptance speech](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/acceptance-speech.md), [oratory](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/oratory.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/55-obama-wins-now-what/chapter/5.md) ### 6. Democratic Mandate, Congressional Election Results (12:20–15:00) The election results are characterized as a rejection of the Bush administration rather than a clear mandate for Democratic spending. With the Democratic Party holding the Presidency, House, and Senate, the focus shifts to how the unified government will exercise its power. Concerns are raised regarding the leadership style of Nancy Pelosi compared to the President-elect. Keywords: [democratic party](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/democratic-party.md), [republican party](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/republican-party.md), [congress](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/congress.md), [senate](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/senate.md), [nancy pelosi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nancy-pelosi.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/55-obama-wins-now-what/chapter/6.md) ### 7. Public Speaking Techniques, The Kennedy Pinch (15:01–17:30) Barack Obama's distinctive speaking cadence is attributed to professional training designed to move away from a "professorial" style. The discussion explores specific rhetorical gestures, such as the "Kennedy pinch" hand movement, and the difficulty impressionists like Frank Caliendo face when trying to mimic the new President. Keywords: [public speaking](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/public-speaking.md), frank caliendo, [vanity fair](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vanity-fair.md), [john f. kennedy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-f-kennedy.md), [body language](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/body-language.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/55-obama-wins-now-what/chapter/7.md) ### 8. Campaign Finance, Billion Dollar Election Costs (17:32–21:01) Total spending for the 2008 election is estimated to exceed $1 billion, effectively ending the era of campaign finance reform. Discrepancies in reporting from CNN suggest even higher figures, leading to questions about the influence of Wall Street and large corporations on the political process. Keywords: [campaign finance](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/campaign-finance.md), [cnn](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cnn.md), [wall street](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wall-street.md), [corporate donations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/corporate-donations.md), election spending [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/55-obama-wins-now-what/chapter/8.md) ### 9. Media Stalling, Election Night Commercial Revenue (21:02–22:40) Television networks are accused of intentionally stalling the declaration of a winner to maximize advertising revenue and showcase expensive studio technology. The competitive nature of broadcast markets is highlighted, with networks monitoring each other to ensure they do not end the "too close to call" narrative prematurely. Keywords: [television networks](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/television-networks.md), [advertising](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/advertising.md), [fox news](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fox-news.md), [cnn](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cnn.md), [election results](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/election-results.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/55-obama-wins-now-what/chapter/9.md) ### 10. CNN Hologram Technology, Virtual Reporters (22:40–27:50) CNN debuts a "holographic" reporting system using 35 high-definition cameras to beam 3D images of reporters into the studio with Wolf Blitzer. The technology is compared to science fiction concepts from Star Trek, though questions remain about whether the effect is a true hologram or a sophisticated green-screen overlay for viewers. Keywords: [cnn](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cnn.md), [wolf blitzer](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wolf-blitzer.md), [hologram](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hologram.md), 3d imaging, [star trek](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/star-trek.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/55-obama-wins-now-what/chapter/10.md) ### 11. Chicago Victory Celebration, Cabinet Selection Speculation (27:52–30:19) Large crowds in Chicago celebrate the election victory amidst concerns about crowd control and public safety. Speculation begins regarding the new cabinet, with expectations that many former Bill Clinton administration officials and political veterans will be appointed to key positions. Keywords: [chicago](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/chicago.md), [bill clinton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bill-clinton.md), [cabinet](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cabinet.md), [jesse jackson](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jesse-jackson.md), political appointments [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/55-obama-wins-now-what/chapter/11.md) ### 12. Fort Mason 2012 Convention, Doomsday Prophecies (30:19–32:37) An event at Fort Mason in San Francisco focused on 2012 doomsday prophecies and the "Age of Aquarius" is described as having a "creepy" atmosphere. The gathering featured speakers and literature regarding the end of the world, attracting a crowd characterized by eccentric behavior and dress. Keywords: fort mason, [2012](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/2012.md), [david icke](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/david-icke.md), [doomsday](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/doomsday.md), [san francisco](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/san-francisco.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/55-obama-wins-now-what/chapter/12.md) ### 13. Social Dynamics, Amsterdam Immigration Issues (32:37–35:05) A discussion on social perceptions in San Francisco transitions into a commentary on the changing levels of tolerance in Amsterdam. The shift in Dutch culture is attributed to immigration patterns, specifically involving Moroccan populations, which is claimed to have impacted the city's traditional openness. Keywords: [san francisco](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/san-francisco.md), [amsterdam](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/amsterdam.md), [immigration](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/immigration.md), [tolerance](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tolerance.md), social perception [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/55-obama-wins-now-what/chapter/13.md) ### 14. California Proposition 8, Black Voter Demographics (35:05–37:30) California's Proposition 8, a constitutional amendment to ban gay marriage, appears headed for passage. Analysis suggests an ironic link between high black voter turnout for Barack Obama and the success of the ban, noting that a significant portion of the black community holds traditional views on marriage. Keywords: [proposition 8](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/proposition-8.md), [gay marriage](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gay-marriage.md), [california](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/california.md), [black voters](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/black-voters.md), [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/55-obama-wins-now-what/chapter/14.md) ### 15. Gavin Newsom, Political Future of San Francisco Mayor (37:32–40:11) San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom is criticized for his perceived arrogance following the legalization of gay marriage by the courts, which some believe fueled the "Yes on 8" campaign. Newsom is identified as a rising star in the Democratic Party being groomed for higher office, despite a "greasy" public persona. Keywords: [gavin newsom](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gavin-newsom.md), [san francisco](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/san-francisco.md), [gay marriage](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gay-marriage.md), [democratic party](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/democratic-party.md), [california governor](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/california-governor.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/55-obama-wins-now-what/chapter/15.md) ### 16. Stock Market Reaction, Erin Burnett Crush (40:12–42:34) The stock market shows volatility following the election, with Dow futures indicating a potential drop. Amidst the financial analysis, a personal admiration for CNBC anchor Erin Burnett is expressed, highlighting her "nerdy" appeal and her presence during election night coverage. Keywords: [dow jones](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dow-jones.md), [yahoo finance](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/yahoo-finance.md), [erin burnett](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/erin-burnett.md), [cnbc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cnbc.md), stock futures [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/55-obama-wins-now-what/chapter/16.md) ### 17. Economic Outlook, Market Spin on Obama (42:37–44:39) Financial analysts predict a negative spin from the markets as they anticipate the new administration's policies on taxes and borrowing. The discussion covers the need for the market to "build a base" and the uncertainty surrounding how the government will fund the multi-trillion dollar stimulus efforts. Keywords: [wall street](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wall-street.md), [taxes](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/taxes.md), borrowing, market base, economic correction [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/55-obama-wins-now-what/chapter/17.md) ### 18. Green Energy Scams, Gordon Brown Job Claims (44:42–47:04) The push for green energy and cap-and-trade systems is expected to attract fraudulent companies looking to exploit government funding. UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown's claims of creating 100,000 wind energy jobs are scrutinized and dismissed as a significant exaggeration of actual economic potential. Keywords: [green energy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/green-energy.md), [cap and trade](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cap-and-trade.md), [gordon brown](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gordon-brown.md), [wind energy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wind-energy.md), [marketwatch](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/marketwatch.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/55-obama-wins-now-what/chapter/18.md) ### 19. Obama Website Strategy, DNC Fundraising (47:06–49:20) The Barack Obama campaign website is praised for its "slick" operation and immediate transition to post-election fundraising for the DNC. The site utilizes sophisticated splash pages and merchandise offers, such as limited edition t-shirts, to maintain financial momentum following the victory. Keywords: barackobama.com, [dnc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dnc.md), [fundraising](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fundraising.md), [grassroots](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/grassroots.md), [marketing](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/marketing.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/55-obama-wins-now-what/chapter/19.md) ### 20. Digital Campaigning, Social Engineering Technology (49:21–51:24) The Democratic Party's use of technology, including reverse VoIP systems and social engineering to match callers by ethnicity, is cited as being far superior to Republican marketing efforts. Strategists like Joe Trippi are credited with revolutionizing how the internet is used for political mobilization and fundraising. Keywords: joe trippi, [voip](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/voip.md), [social engineering](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/social-engineering.md), [direct mail](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/direct-mail.md), internet marketing [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/55-obama-wins-now-what/chapter/20.md) ### 21. Internet Censorship, Australian Content Filtering (51:25–54:20) Australia's move to implement a mandatory internet filter is compared to the "Great Firewall of China." While the stated goal is to block illegal content and hardcore pornography, critics argue the move is actually about establishing a system for broader content control and political scanning. Keywords: [australia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/australia.md), [censorship](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/censorship.md), [internet filter](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/internet-filter.md), [porn](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/porn.md), [china](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/china.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/55-obama-wins-now-what/chapter/21.md) ### 22. Shadow Government, Terrorism Cycle Predictions (54:21–57:32) Speculation regarding a "shadow government" and the influence of the Zbigniew Brzezinski group follows the election. Predictions are made about a potential eight-year cycle for major terrorist incidents, with warnings to be out of the stock market by September 11, 2009. Keywords: [shadow government](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/shadow-government.md), [al-qaeda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/al-qaeda.md), [september 11](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/september-11.md), [homeland security](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/homeland-security.md), [afghanistan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/afghanistan.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/55-obama-wins-now-what/chapter/22.md) ### 23. Defense Plans, Al-Qaeda Internet Shutdown (57:32–1:00:14) The Obama-Biden defense plan focuses on responsibly ending the war in Iraq while doubling down on efforts in Afghanistan. Reports that the government "shut down" Al-Qaeda's access to the internet are met with skepticism, suggesting the war on terror remains a "farcical" security situation. Keywords: [iraq](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/iraq.md), [afghanistan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/afghanistan.md), [al-qaeda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/al-qaeda.md), [intelligence](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/intelligence.md), [weapons sales](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/weapons-sales.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/55-obama-wins-now-what/chapter/23.md) ### 24. Tom DeLay, Pelosi vs. Obama Power Struggle (1:00:15–1:02:16) Former Congressman Tom DeLay predicts a significant power struggle between House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and President-elect Barack Obama. While media figures like Chris Matthews dismiss the idea, the analysis suggests Pelosi will attempt to assert dominance over the executive branch. Keywords: [tom delay](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tom-delay.md), [nancy pelosi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nancy-pelosi.md), [msnbc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/msnbc.md), [chris matthews](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/chris-matthews.md), [congress](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/congress.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/55-obama-wins-now-what/chapter/24.md) ### 25. Bilderberg Group, Global Control Theories (1:02:18–1:04:35) The discussion touches on the Bilderberg Group and the idea of unified global control through elite "drinking clubs" and lobbyists. Skepticism is expressed regarding whether these groups are truly coordinated or simply competing factions within the political and financial establishment. Keywords: [bilderberg group](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bilderberg-group.md), [lobbyists](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lobbyists.md), [wall street](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wall-street.md), political control, drinking clubs [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/55-obama-wins-now-what/chapter/25.md) ### 26. Election Prediction Failure, Credibility Admission (1:04:35–1:06:52) The hosts admit to being "dead wrong" about their 2008 election predictions, which originally favored a McCain-Giuliani ticket over an Obama-Clinton ticket. The collapse of the economy is cited as the "buzzsaw" that destroyed McCain's chances, leading to a formal admission of failed political forecasting. Keywords: [john mccain](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-mccain.md), [hillary clinton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hillary-clinton.md), [rudy giuliani](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rudy-giuliani.md), election bets, [credibility](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/credibility.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/55-obama-wins-now-what/chapter/26.md) ### 27. New York Times Bet, Dow Jones Bottom Prediction (1:06:53–1:09:24) A $100 bet with John Markoff of the New York Times results in a win for one of the hosts after Markoff reversed his usual betting logic. Additionally, a specific financial prediction is made that the Dow Jones will hit a bottom of 7,286 by February 14th. Keywords: [john markoff](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-markoff.md), [new york times](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/new-york-times.md), [dow jones](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dow-jones.md), [betting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/betting.md), [financial markets](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/financial-markets.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/55-obama-wins-now-what/chapter/27.md) ### 28. Market Volatility, 1929 Crash Comparison (1:09:25–1:12:32) A comparison is drawn between current economic conditions and the 1929 market crash, suggesting the Dow could see a massive "dipsy-do" swing. Predictions include the Dow potentially hitting 25,000 or 30,000 before a catastrophic drop, leading to a full-scale depression by 2013. Keywords: [dow jones](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dow-jones.md), 1929 crash, [depression](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/depression.md), [index funds](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/index-funds.md), [hyperinflation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hyperinflation.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/55-obama-wins-now-what/chapter/28.md) ### 29. Obama-Proofing Portfolios, Show Outro (1:12:32–1:15:05) The episode concludes with a mention of a MarketWatch column on "Obama-proofing" investment portfolios using advice from an anonymous billionaire. The hosts sign off from the UK and Silicon Valley, planning for a follow-up show on Saturday. Keywords: [marketwatch](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/marketwatch.md), [larry ellison](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/larry-ellison.md), [silicon valley](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/silicon-valley.md), [no agenda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/no-agenda.md), [podcast](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/podcast.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/55-obama-wins-now-what/chapter/29.md) - [Previous episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/54-obama-armbands.md) - [Next episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/56-100-billion-dollars.md) --- This is the markdown version of a page on The No Agenda Show for AI agents. 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