By Clyde Noel

Discussing politics after the “Super Tuesday” election, Arianna Huffington and Bill Press, guest speakers at the Foothill College Celebrity Forum, March 10 in Flint Center, agreed we need somebody new or something new; but we’re getting the same old politics with Al Gore and George Bush in the fall.

“John McCain’s campaign to get 1034 delegates crashed and burned on Super Tuesday, but his campaign to shift the ethos of American politics is still very much alive,” Huffington told the audience. “When McCain conceded, his speech ignited a cause for reform.”

Speaking on the same stage, Press said he voted for McCain because “I believe campaign reform is the number one issue in the country. Money has corrupted the system. In these days of cynicism we are living an hypocrisy.”

Huffington, known for her political wit and unconventional wisdom, matched stage comments with Bill Press, co-host of “Crossfire,” CNN’s dynamic political debate program. Throughout the hour and a half debate, they agreed with each other more often than not.

Huffington said we are too conservative in our election procedures. “There is no reason why we can’t register and vote on the same day. It’s also time we voted on Saturday and Sunday, and even online.” she said.

They agreed that selecting a vice-presidential candidate with an opposite personality from the presidential candidate could enliven both tickets.

“We need someone who is alive. A passionate speaker who can liven up the ticket.” Huffington said. “Kathleen Kennedy Townsend, Lt. Governor of Maryland, would make a good VP. George Bush needs an African American. Star from the television program ‘View’ would be great.”

Press agreed the party has to do something to bring excitement to either ticket. “A Latino like Bill Richardson, Secretary of Energy, would be good, or African American, Franklin D. Raines, chairman and CEO of Fanny Mae, would balance the ticket and so would Indiana senator, Evan Bayh.

“Republican New Jersey Governor Christine Todd Whitman would be great, but she is pro-choice and the Republican religious right would not accept her,” Press said.

During the question-and-answer period, a question was submitted asking about Tom Campbell’s chances of unseating Diane Feinstein as senator.

“He doesn’t stand a chance,” Press said. “Feinstein is predictable. She is one of the most independent thinkers in the Senate. She is effective and respected on both sides of the aisle.”

Huffington wouldn’t go that far on Campbell’s chances, but said he shows good leadership and has taken on Clinton at times.

Both speakers voted yes on Proposition 26, which would have allowed a simple majority vote on school bond measures instead of the two-thirds majority required. Voters rejected the proposition.

“I voted for it. I would do anything to change our schools and improve the infrastructure.” Huffington said. “We are writing off millions of children because of our inadequate programs and poor teacher pay.”