ThinkProgress has been documenting conservative efforts to shift the burden of record budget shortfalls, many of them artificially created by the Governors to begin with, onto the backs of the middle-class Americans for sometime now. Yesterday they released a new report on just 12 of those States. http://thinkprogress.org/2011/03/16/gop-state-corporate-tax-cuts/ For example:

MICHIGAN: “Gov. Rick Snyder’s (R) budget would make Michigan’s already regressive tax system even more unfair for the state’s poorest residents. The plan cuts taxes on business by more than 86 percent while slashing $1.2 billion in funding for “schools, universities, local governments and other areas.” Snyder also wants to raise personal taxes by 30 percent — an increase that will fall disproportionately on Michigan’s lowest income residents”.

This from the same governor that has declared “Fiscal Martial Law” on his people, whereby his own discretion he can declare any municipality in the State as “Fiscally Insolvent” and then send in a civilian despot that has complete and total power over that Municipality firing all elected officials, like the Mayor, cancel contracts, like Union Contracts with teachers, fire fighters and police etc. with total and reckless abandon.

What do most of these States have in common? They are cutting things like the Earned Income Tax Credit, Homestead Rebates, Education, Medicaid, Pension and Health Care Benefits for public Workers, Heating Programs for Seniors, laying off Public Workers, closing Community Health Centers etc.

What else are they cutting? Property and Income Taxes for Corporations, Income and Estate Taxes for the Wealthy.

What is increasing? Property taxes for the Middle Class and Poor, State Sales Taxes.

Now these do demonstrate the trickle down economics. For example the lost jobs will result in lower revenues for the state, more people on unemployment and submitted claims for UI, more people on food stamps, welfare and Medicaid (if it exists at all) or they will just go to Emergency Rooms for care. And this will trickle down into the private sector as well as fewer people working means less money into the economy which means fewer and fewer customers for small business to sell their products and services to, and hence layoffs in the private sector as well and the cycle repeats. This is exactly like the old fable of the snake eating its own tail until it devours itself.

To make matters worse you will see the same the same trickle down effect in Education, Health Care etc. There will be less college grads meaning more people in lower paying jobs, fewer teachers, scientist, technicians, teachers, health care providers and on and on. What you will be left with is a “poor” state that will be under educated and have a higher ratio of sick people. Just read the article on what they want to do.

All this from the GOP/TP party that every day claims they are afraid for our children and grandchildren. This is a big pile of crap. They are only worried about their bonus checks that they receive from the outside influence peddlers that have destroyed our political system with money, money and more money. Groups like the US Chamber of Commerce, Karl Rove, The Koch Brothers and other Special Interest Groups that are buying off our politicians in the name of Greed and Power and the Middle Class and the Poor are paying the price.

Then you have the 22 States that want to take away one of our most basic rights granted to us by the Constitution of the United States, the right to vote and elect our own political officials in a free and open society without any outside influence either Domestic or Foreign.

22 GOP/TP Controlled States Disenfranchise Millions of Voters across the Country

http://thinkprogress.org/2011/03/05/state-disenfranchisement-schemes/

As reported this AM the claims for Jobless Benefits drop below 400,000 again for the last 3 out of 4 weeks. Congress is debating the Small Business Bill today and the GOP/TP threatens to hold it hostage again. What else is new from the GOP/TP Party? It is all about them and the he!! with everybody else.

Great post Louis

Dem disarray provides Republican’s with the votes to pass stopgap spending bill despite tea party opposition:

If I recall correctly, some of the FR lefty liberal usual suspects were recently gleefully enjoying the possibility of a split between establishment and freshmen tea party Republicans. Looks like the “big tent” Dems saved the day!!!

I love the “big tent” line. What it makes me think of is the circus, which also has a “big tent” filled with clowns.

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

From Politico:

Democrats wonder: What's our plan?
By: Jonathan Allen
March 17, 2011 04:39 AM EDT

Democrats in Congress are grappling with a question as they negotiate a spending deal: Who's in charge?

The top two Democratic leaders in the House have twice split on whether to approve short-term government funding bills that cut billions from federal accounts. Senate Democrats haven’t put forward a long-term spending plan that can move through their chamber, and Democrats on both sides of the Capitol say they have no idea where the White House stands or who’s running the show.

The result is a rank and file that is confused about its direction and unhappy with the leadership — or lack of it — on when to go along with the Republican-controlled House on budget matters and when to stand and fight.

“The sum and substance of our strategy can’t be waiting for the other side to [mess] up,” Rep. Anthony Weiner (D-N.Y.) told bloggers Wednesday.

But for many Democrats, that’s exactly what their leaders’ short-term strategy amounts to.

In a follow-up interview with POLITICO, the Brooklyn liberal said if there is a more elegant Democratic plan, “it’s such a Jedi mind-meld going on that it hasn’t filtered down to my level.”

On Tuesday, Democratic disarray allowed House Speaker John Boehner (R-Ohio) to push through a three-week spending bill cutting $6 billion from federal programs despite 54 of his own members breaking ranks. Democrats missed an opportunity to either leverage their votes for concessions or simply sink Boehner’s bill and show more clearly the depth of his problem with the right wing of his caucus. Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi of California and 103 of her colleagues voted no, while Minority Whip Steny Hoyer of Maryland and 84 other Democrats voted yes. The numbers were the exact reverse of the last short-term spending bill.

Happy St. Paddy’s Day!

I must confess, my proclivity to kick up my Irish heels has been overshadowed by the events that continue to unfold in Japan…

Watching the military choppers dump water sea water on those reactors, gives me a VERY ‘sick’ feeling in the pit of my stomach!

Let the bashing of President Obama’s handling of this crisis commence…

In the meantime, I would like to suggest to the loyal First Readers, that those of you who haven’t already done so, to go to the Red Cross web site and donate what you can:

https://american.redcross.org/site/Donation2?5052.donation=form1&df_id=5052&idb=0

The Japanese people desperately need our help!

In full disclosure – I am in NO way affiliated with the Red Cross, other than being a donor!

The Obama Diary: Historians have unearthed records showing Obama’s maternal ancestors lived, worked, married and had children in the Moneygall area more than 150 years ago. Fulmuth Kearney, who is Obama’s third great-grandfather, left Moneygall for New York in 1850 to eventually settle in Ohio.

Dane County District Attorney Ismael Ozanne charged Wisconsin state Senate Republicans Wednesday with open meetings law violations in connection with a controversial move they made to pass legislation to curtail public sector union bargaining rights.

Faces Behind the Budget Cuts - Millions of Texans stand to suffer from devastating cuts to proven state programs.

Texas Observer:

Don’t expect to hear the governor talk about folks like the Evanses or their Medicaid clients. Despite the unprecedented shortfall, Gov. Rick Perry has argued that the Legislature shouldn’t raise taxes or use the Rainy Day Fund, the state’s $9 billion savings account. Instead, Perry contends the state should balance its budget through spending cuts.

The approach isn’t new—on the campaign trail, Perry and many conservative legislative candidates argued budget cuts were a way to trim fat. Evans liked the rhetoric then. “I think people were against wasteful spending,” he says. “I don’t think spending money to care for somebody in a nursing facility is wasteful spending. ... I’m not in favor of taxes. But I think if you ask most people, ‘Would you rather pay a little more in taxes or have your mom kicked out of the nursing home,’ I think I know what the answer would be.”

Ronnie Evans is a self-described conservative. “I’ll say that I was backing some of the Tea Party stuff,” he says. But he never imagined the Tea Party victories last November would result in the Texas Legislature proposing budget cuts that would kick elderly people out of nursing homes—especially his nursing home.

_________________

Let’s blame President Obama for Texas. Let’s blame President Obama for the GOP members we put into office. Texas. GWB's state. Where invading Iraq was all the rage. Look how THAT catastrophe has cost this country in lives and money.

Texas. The utopia state. Riiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiight. Don't raise my taxes, unless it affects me personally state.

OK, for those of us who would never advance very far in Jeopardy, from Wikepedia:

The words Taoiseach and Tánaiste (the title of the deputy prime minister) are both from the Irish languageand of ancient origin. Though the Taoiseach is described in the Constitution of Ireland as "the head of the Government or Prime Minister",^[6] its literal translation is "Chieftain" or "Leader".^[13] Some historians^[who?] suggest that in ancient Ireland (where these terms originate), a taoiseach was a minor king, while a tánaiste was a governor placed in a kingdom whose king had been deposed or, more usually, his heir-apparent.^{[citation needed]}

” Snyder also wants to raise personal taxes by 30 percent — an increase that will fall disproportionately on Michigan’s lowest income residents”.

Now that's fiscal responsibility. Pay for tax cuts for the rich with tax increases on the poor. The current crop of scoundrels the GOP has spewed forth is almost cartoonishly villainous. I'm waiting for one of these teabag governors to enact a law called the "Tie Young Ladies to the Railroad Tracks If They Can't Pay Their Rent Act". Maybe Snidely Whiplash will get the GOP presidential nomination this time.

Louis, Obama has reverted to Zelig- in an attempt to regain his campaign advantage of 2008 which allowed people to infer what they would from his vacuous speeches.

That works in a campaign from a half term freshman senator, with a complicit media waving pom pons, but falls short when the country and the world are in crisis, and the President of the United States seems to be inhabiting some alternate universe where all is peaceful and prosperous.

Yesterday, more bad news for the economy was announced: inflation is back, and it is set to take off like a rocket. Food prices increased by 3.9%, and there is no reason to assume that will moderate.

So, I. Response to this, high unemployment, the deficit crisis, the budget crisis, the Japan crisis, the Middle East crisis, the Libyan rebel crisis, and the high oil price crisis, what is Obama talking about?

Spending more money on education. And his brackets.

What is he doing? Having a party tonight- and packing for his next trip to South America. I guess he does not fully understand the meaning of the old saying that, " when the going gets tough, the tough get going". He seems to take it literally.

On the other hand, that seems to be the Democratic mantra. Run and hide, run and hide. Makes it much easier to be completely detached from reality.

Feisty:

Japan is in trouble and needs all the help we can muster. If indeed those spent fuel rods are now uncovered it no longer becomes if a major problem will happen, it is reduced to when.

In my opinion this cold have been avoided to some extent. The reactor itself did not fail. The cooling systems failed 1) When the tiddle wave wiped out power and 2) When the backup generator was damaged by the tiddle wave. If the generator had been put on the roof, this problem would not be happening now.

What happened to the power line that was suppossed to be connected. If they can get power to those pumps they may be able to regain control but the info from Japan is less than helpful.

I was reading my Military Web Site, and the Navy does have a plan to pull one of the Nuclear Ships close to the reactor and run power lines and tie them into our reactors to at least get power to the pumps. Kinda like a big floating portable generator. I think the radiation levels are now too high to do that, my guess which would indicate the problem is worse than Japan is claiming at this point.

Thank you, Feisty

"In the meantime, I would like to suggest to the loyal First Readers, that those of you who haven’t already done so, to go to the Red Cross web site and donate what you can:"

"The Japanese people desperately need our help!"

Great posts to start the day. Honestly I don't even know anymore why we continue to use the term "trickle down economics." It's gone to such extremes now that it couldn't be more clear. This isn't ANY form of "economics", it's plainly and simply redistribution of wealth from the middle to the top.

The original name for this approach was "horse and sparrow." The horse eats the grain. Guess where the sparrow tries to pick its grain from?

Audacity of Hoops and Conservatives NOT HELPING

I know we conservatives seem a little critical of Obama from time to time. Some say we have nothing positive to say. Yesterday - Economic disaster, global unrest, gas prices, Japan's triple disaster, etc. and and we say Obama has the audacity to think we want him working on his brackets.

I might even wrongly mock - what kind of basketball expert is Obama? He was the tallest, biggest, none "pale" player on his little private prep school team in the basketball bastion of Hawaii. His coach described him as a free spirit and independent on the court (What does she look like? - She has the sweetest personality!). His brother-in-law says he is left dominate for a left handed player.

So.... the great prognosticator was a scrub, wasn't a team player, couldn't dribble with his right and couldn't hit anything except the bench with his butt. Darn it there I go again - not being nice.

Here is the positive that we conservatives ignore. Obama has been very busy. He has discovered a new emerging crisis in America and fixed it with out one ounce of acknowledgement. Obama studied, collected data and found that American children have been pushing and shoving each other. Others have been tripped and there are credible, but unconfirmed reports that some victims have been "noogie" tortured. Obama has quietly come out and fixed the bullying problem that threatened our way of life. Thank you Mr. President.

And let me add that he accomplished this while conducting Mo Town interventions, Smokey Robinson, Sheryl Crow, Jamie Foxx. He helped the poor like Stevie Wonder, Paul Simon, Tony Bennett, Bod Dylan, Joan Baez and even a cavalcade of Broadway people put food on the table. Some guy named Paul McCartney was flown in to sing to his wife a while back and now the guy is a millionaire!

And conservatives mock his bracket picks? We need to help Mr. President.

Here is an idea. Since he is so over worked, let us at least help him by making it fun. He likes brackets, liberals like imaginary things, so lets imagine the world is a big bracket.

Obama could then pick teams. In the Big Mid East - Gadahfi Tech Killers vs. University of East Libya Freedom Fighters; From the American Mid West Conference - the Wisconsin Tax Payer vs. SEIU - DC Union Goons; The University of Sanity vs. Reid Mental State Power Puppets; Justice Dept at Louisiana vs. EPA Boa Constrictors.......

So there it is.......Conservatives being positive and helping our country work together.

my guess which would indicate the problem is worse than Japan is claiming at this point.

That makes two of us Navy!

I've noticed with each passing day that, the experts from the NRC have gone from moderate analysis to almost a full blown panic!

One was asked last night what he would do if he were in Japan, and his response was "I wouldn't be in Japan'...

From blackwaterdog's site:

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of the Treasury announced that today six financial institutions have repurchased Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP) Capital Purchase Program (CPP) investments, delivering a total of $475 million in proceeds for taxpayers.

Treasury currently expects that TARP investment programs taken as a whole – including financial support for banks, AIG and the domestic auto industry, as well as targeted initiatives to restart the credit markets – will result in little or no cost to taxpayers.

Another group that does excellent medical work in devastated areas is Doctors Without Borders.

This is very unfortunate as first indications were that this plant had withstood multiple earthquakes and a tsunami and yet the public was safe. I would hope that the industry will rethink tsunami safety in the wake of this. Today I heard nuclear reactors described as being like toddlers--they need constant attention and you can't leave them alone for an instant. Right now it's all about finding SOME way to get water to the cooling system.

Amy, I liked that little bit of info on Ireland. Happy St Patrick's Day to all.

To those of you of Irish ancestry, remember your forefathers today. When they came to America, in many cases penniless, they helped build this country, the railroads across to the West, building the great cities we now have, working in the mines in Montanta and out west. Many were instumental in founding labor unions for better working condititons and today their ancestors are still proud union members and leaders having help build a strong middle class, that unfortunately is now threatened.

The first ST. Patricks'Day Parade in the US took place in 1762 in NYC long before we became independent.

Pat, Boston, MA

The Obama Diary: Historians have unearthed records showing Obama’s maternal ancestors lived, worked, married and had children in the Moneygall area more than 150 years ago. Fulmuth Kearney, who is Obama’s third great-grandfather, left Moneygall for New York in 1850 to eventually settle in Ohio.

I'm glad you had time to visit the Obama Diary. I plan to latter. As I said before it so refreshing to be on a site that is positive. It's like an oasis. I like the way they don't invite negative comments left or right.

Did you know the President is a distant cousin of both Dick Cheney and George Bush.

Also, the President is related to none other than former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin. According to the Associated Press, Anastasia Tyler, a genealogist at Ancestry.com, says the president and the hockey mom are 10th cousins by way of common ancestor Pastor John Smith, who settled in Massachusetts in the 17th centur

http://www.nypost.com/p/news/regional/item_KJXdKMwZqBgHPdXXdGWnEP

=============================================

The right will blame everything on the President look at how Fox skews this...

It Begins ... The Left Blames Earthquake, Tsunami on Global Warming

Read more: http://nation.foxnews.com/climate-change/2011/03/11/it-begins-left-blames-earthquake-tsunami-global-warming#ixzz1GO8PPK7W

This morning FOX was bashing him for receiving the Transparencycy Award. They bashed not getting the Olympic site and the Nobel Prize.

Next it will be the Tsunami since they think he is the Anti-Christ.

Boy, what a bunch of haters!!!!

John B.

How true. Thanks for the follow up. My point is how these cuts or whatever we want to call them have a far reaching impact that is not always positive and flows (trickles) downhill like something else we know that is brown and smells.

I loved the horse and sparrow. You are 100% correct this is nothing more than a scheme to redistribute power and wealth to the top 2%. No doubt about it now, none. Currently the economic divide is at record levels and growing. The rich are getting richer and the poor are getting poorer. This is heading toward a class based society of those that have and those that never will.

Thnaks, Happy St. Patty's day all.

Feisty,

What handling of the crisis?

Obama comes out of the Oval after exhaustive hours of due diligence work on his brackets and reassures our great friend Japan that our bond is "unshakable." (Is it just me - was that the best word to use?)

Anyway, after selling out Poland, the Czech Republic; throwing our previous best bud - the UK under the bus, etc., etc. ...... my thought was that saying this to Japan was like Sports Illustrated putting them on the next cover......Yep.

Anyway, other than that - What have we missed about Obama's handling of the crisis. Does he need to place a phone call to the Emperor and tell the Emperor he should have said he was figuring whose ass to kick?

Obama has voted present. He will get back to us when everyone else has figured out what to do and the polls tell him what to say.

While Congress is primarily focused on cutting spending in the debate over reducing the federal budget deficit, some progressive lawmakers say it's time to start collecting more revenues from the wealthiest Americans.

Democratic Rep. Jan Schakowsky of Illinois unveiled a bill today to create new, higher tax brackets for Americans making more than $1 million a year.

"This isn't about punishment or revenge. It's about fairness," Schakowsky said. "It's about avoiding budget cuts that harm middle class families and those who aspire to it. We can choose to cut education, job creation and health care, or we can choose to ask those who can contribute more to do so."

Currently, the top tax bracket begins at an income of $373,000 per year; income above that level is taxed at 35 percent. Schakowsky contends this fails to distinguish between the "well off" and the superrich, such as a group of hedge fund managers whose average income last year topped $1 billion.

Schakowsky's bill, called the Fairness in Taxation Act, would tax income between $1 million and $10 million at a rate of 45 percent. Income between $10 and $20 million would be taxed at a rate of 46 percent, and income between $20 and $100 million would be taxed at 47 percent.

Income between $100 million and $1 billion would be taxed at a rate of 48 percent, and income over $1 billion would be taxed at 49 percent. For those making over $1 million a year, capital gains and dividends would also be taxed as income.

Schakowsky claims the bill could raise more than $78 billion for the government.

http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-503544_162-20043928-503544.html

For all those being very critical of every move the president makes...I would like to ask where you were when Bush wrecked the country and now we are paying for it.

And for the dumb ones on here...it's pretty sad that you can't see past the your disdain for the president; some of you will even complain when you have a hard sh!t - after all the president was not monitoring the levels of fiber in your diet. We've become a bunch of pansies crying out lout when the president or the government does anything - good or bad - someone will complain.

- Michelle Obama speaks out about proper diet - oh no
- Michelle Obama hates the country because she wa never proud of it. oh no
- Barack Obama talks about bullying - how dare he
- Barack Obama requests money from BP - Chicago thug extortionist
- Barack Obama - insert whatever you want here

Hey...even though I hate what's going on in Libya, I'm sure glad we didn't put ourselves in the middle of another Civil War... some say "the world is waiting for the US to lead"... I say, it's time for the US to relax a little, let the rest of the world lead this time around... we are over stretched in Iraq and Afganistan, not to mention that our economy is still barely recovering and we cant even pass our own budget, lol... .those idiots make me laugh not know which side of they face they want to slap.

My criticism aint just for republicans, and goes to both Ds and Rs.... but more for the Rs.

US Navy Disabled Veteran - Retired

ThinkProgress has been documenting conservative efforts to shift the burden of record budget shortfalls, many of them artificially created by the Governors to begin with, onto the backs of the middle-class Americans for sometime now. Yesterday they released a new report on just 12 of those States. http://thinkprogress.org/2011/03/16/gop-state-corporate-tax-cuts/ For example:

MICHIGAN: “Gov. Rick Snyder’s (R) budget would make Michigan’s already regressive tax system even more unfair for the state’s poorest residents.

I find it amazing you and I are constantly on the same page. Although I didn't talk about Gov. Rick Snyder’s unfair tax; I'm glad you did.

Keep up the good work so the blind shall see; Pal.

Pat, Boston: Schakowsky claims the bill could raise more than $78 billion for the government.

Well, that's real nice of Jan, seeing her increased tax scheme would be more than enough to pay for the federal governments deficit spending from yesterday.

News Item: U.S. Debt Jumped $72 Billion Same Day U.S. House Voted to Cut Spending $6 Billion

Source: http://www.cnsnews.com/news/article/debt-jumped-72-billion-same-day-house-vo#

If we collected $1.00 for everytime the word 'brackets' has appeared so far this week from the right, we'd be very wealthy! LOL

If nothing else, they are predictable... *yawn*

Beverly, thanks kindly for the link. What a wonder it is for all of us to go back to our ancestors and visit what their lives were like as they built our country.

Chris Matthews mentioned a few nights ago that today's GOP are not going to be judged too kindly in the future. They have no desire to continuing the hard work it takes to keep our large country going. They had it all handed to them, and they think the work is done.

They are not investing either in our children's future nor our country's future. What a difference from 100 years ago. We had Germans and Italians here during WWII. But there was never ever a moment when they didn't consider themselves Americans first.

They worked hard, brutal hours in their labor. They fought for us in WWII. Came home and raised a family and worked worked worked worked, with no complaints.

Today's GOP don't seem too interested in continuing what made our country great. Donald Trump. Does he just build for the ultra rich? Does he do work in Harlem, does anyone know?

Or is he just into multi million dollar "apartments"? I've been told that his father when he was in real estate, would move out the poor to make room for the wealthy.

"I find it amazing you and I are constantly on the same page."

____________________________________

Bev, you and all the FR lefty liberals are always on the same page: the thinkprogess home page.

What exactly do you find "amazing" about that??

JoAnnaSmith1

Pat, Boston: Schakowsky claims the bill could raise more than $78 billion for the government.

Which would be more than enough to pay for the federal governments deficit spending from yesterday.

News Item: U.S. Debt Jumped $72 Billion Same Day U.S. House Voted to Cut Spending $6 Billion

Source: http://www.cnsnews.com/news/article/debt-jumped-72-billion-same-day-house-vo#

JoAnnaSmith1

Are you aware your link is affiliated with Andrew Breibert that fat tub of lard who...

a) used audio from a secretly recorded conference call to accuse the National Endowment of the Arts of encouraging artists to create work in support of Barack Obama's domestic policy agenda?

b)photo shopped a lie to smear Shirley Sherrod?

c) is the boss of James O'Keefe the goonie pimp with his hoe who lied on ACORN?

d) James O'Keefe taped Planned Parenthood in an attack video amongst others?

How can you believe a thing he says?

Tunde

Obama hasn’t made any moves lately for anyone to be critical of.

Except for his bracket picks and since I don’t follow sports I could care less. The last couple days I keep thinking how sad, as it is almost like our country is without a president….he’s absent, unengaged. By the time he gets around to Libya the rebel forces will be dead. Brackets and procrastination have consequences too. Our VP is absent too.. they announced he was to personally oversee the establishment of a budget and he hasn’t been heard from since. Just like when they announced he was in charge of overseeing the stimulus money. This administration is always “a day late and dollar short”….(or a few trillion short).

RVZ: Nothing would make me happier than to see The DREAM Act passed.

Happy St. Patrick's Day. The day we celebrate the Irish. Ireland. Most of us celebrate St. Patrick's Day, whether we are Irish or not.

btw, I remember as a child meeting and knowing many Italians, Polish, Germans, etc., who spoke little, if any, English. But that was okay, cuz they were our grandparents.

I ate Italian food all the time as a child. All the time. My grandfather cooked it. My grandfather, who spoke little English. Now I love Mexican food. I eat it all the time.

The DREAM Act. I hope it gets the light of day.

Except for his bracket picks and since I don’t follow sports I could care less. The last couple days I keep thinking how sad, as it is almost like our country is without a president….he’s absent, unengaged. By the time he gets around to Libya the rebel forces will be dead.

I really find it fascinating that people like Paul here want to always stick their noses into other people's business. In this case, its Lybia. Just because the President has NOT sent troops over to Lybia in support of SOMETHING, he is disengaged?

Have we forgotten about the last time we 'stuck our noses' into someone else's business? Does the name CURVEBALL (Iraq) mean anything to anyone?

I think that this President is being pragmatic. If there is a civil war in Lybia, let the people fighting that war settle their differences. Why is it that the United States have to ALWAYS be the world's policeman??

The President was criticised about Egypt for not stepping in and sending troops. What happened there is more of a testament to the power of our President. There were signs that the people carried that had a simple phrase - 'YES WE CAN TOO'. The inspiration that got President Obama elected is the SAME inspiration that caused a major change in the Government of Egypt. And guess what - not a shot was fired by a US Serviceman.

Now THAT is change I can believe in.

I know where the vice president is....Joe Biden has found Dick Cheney's bunker.

Thanks John, Feisty, Navy and everyone else

GF

The right wing trolls are busy today.

The low bellies came out of their caves and from under their rocks to chase that elusive Koch money. LOL

http://i41.tinypic.com/245k41l.gif

http://tinyurl.com/4d6rhzn

It's a good thing St. Patrick drives them away.

Pietro,

Freedom fighters that Obama came out and encouraged, that had been told by Obama that "Gadhafi had to go" have been shouting into the cameras of the world - "Where is Obama?" "Where is the help?" ....... before being slaughtered by hundreds / thousands.

Why did Obama run out in front of the cameras then disappear? Why not just keep his mouth shut if he wasn't going to support with action those he supported with words?

Is this a leader?

bob-1805084

Yea, Happy St. Patrick's Day ....

BTW - What is Barry O'Bama doing to day?

Yesterday - brackets to show our All American President was a regular guy.

Today? - Irish line dancing on the View? He and Michelle going to have a green beer with their lobster?

http://i41.tinypic.com/245k41l.gif

http://tinyurl.com/4d6rhzn

HA HAHA I know; you're green with envy. Eat your heart out troll!!!

@Pietro

"Have we forgotten about the last time we 'stuck our noses' into someone else's business? Does the name CURVEBALL (Iraq) mean anything to anyone?

I think that this President is being pragmatic. If there is a civil war in Lybia, let the people fighting that war settle their differences. Why is it that the United States have to ALWAYS be the world's policeman??"

Didn't he already stick his nose in?

www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2011/02/23/president-obama-speaks-turmoil-libya-violence-must-stop

Bev, are you saying JS1's numbers are not correct? Put aside the source, and I know you do struggle with the math but, number are numbers.

How much debt was created yesterday? You can go to about a million sources, but it'll be consistent.

You see my dear, figures don't lie, but liars can figure. So all you got to do is stick with the actual numbers. MMMMMKAy?

Please Insult Me!

Tunde Akins

some of you will even complain when you have a hard sh!t - after all the president was not monitoring the levels of fiber in your diet.

Don't worry. Michelle has plan for that. And you'd better go along with it. Or else.

By the way. You did her no favors by including this little gem:

- Michelle Obama hates the country because she wa never proud of it. oh no

Thanks for reminding me.

"What first lady Michelle Obama actually said was...

I am proud in how Americans are engaging in the political process. I mean everyone has said what I said, in that we haven't seen these record numbers of turnouts, people who are paying attention, going to rallies, watching debates."

"For the first time in my lifetime I am seeing people rolling up their sleeves in way that I haven't seen and really trying to figure this out, and that's the source of pride I was talking about," she continued.

http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2010/10/15/palin-takes-jab-at-first-lady/

Your britches are on fire; Please Insult Me!

@Spanky-

Bev, are you saying JS1's numbers are not correct? Put aside the source, and I know you do struggle with the math but, number are numbers.

I only struggle with right wing imaginary numbers.

Alan, NJ: Didn't he already stick his nose in?

He did the same thing with Wisconsin and the unions. Obama called what Governor Walker was doing an "assault on unions", and after that, Obama disappeared.

Words generally have consequences, but not when Obama says them. How do you trust a guy that doesn't back up what he says? The answer is easy, you don't.

Spanky: Bev, are you saying JS1's numbers are not correct?

And Bev impugning sources. Now that is humor.

From Bob (numbers):

Freedom fighters that Obama came out and encouraged, that had been told by Obama that "Gadhafi had to go" have been shouting into the cameras of the world - "Where is Obama?" "Where is the help?" ....... before being slaughtered by hundreds / thousands.

From Alan, NJ:

Didn't he already stick his nose in?

Gentlemen - let's be clear on this. WEIGHING IN and STICKING OUR NOSE IN are two COMPLETELY different things. Does the President have to WEIGH IN on what is going on around the world? Of course. STICKING OUR NOSE IN is when we are sending US TROOPS to help one side or another.

The President's plan is to go through the United Nations to voice an opinion in these areas. It does NOT mean that we HAVE to send troops to quell the violence.

My post's thrust was that in the Egyptian situation, we did not send any troops to help the Egyptian Army. We offered our support for a PEACEFUL resolution, and we got it.

In the case of Lybia, the rebels there decided to go against Gadaffi and they are not succeeding. Note that the President has NOT sent one US Troop into that Civil War, nor has he committed any troops.

Again, THAT is the change I can believe in.

Let the combatants work out their own solutions. Use the United Nations to support (or not support) whichever side. The bottom line - we should NOT be sending in troops for ANY political reason where there is a conflict. Our Troops are for OUR protection, not for the 'despot of the month whom we support today'.

We really have enough problems here in America to worry about than to continually 'aid' countries that have their own conflicts.

STAY OUT OF IT and let those people who have conficts resolve their own problems.

It's to the point that the media can't even get any information out of the newest White House spokes-liar Jay Carney. The media (ABCs Jake Tapper) asked what the US government knows about what is really is going on in Japan, and Carney tells Tapper to "Ask his reporters on the ground in Japan". What?!

How disconnected is this administration from reality?

Obama - The Invisible Man

Bev - what amount of debt was added YESTERDAY?

Now be a dear and compare and contrast to to the amount Obama's proposed budget seeks to cut for the entire next year.

Go ahead, give it a shot. Again the numbers are the numbers. I know math can be hard.

Pietro - good post.

The Unied States actually has very shallow roots in Libya, while Italy, France and Britain have much at stake in that country. The U.S. for multiple reasons finds direct intervention in Libyan fighting a truly difficult problem - other nations around the Middle East might well read such intervention in the wrong way, it is absolutely certain that the jihadist movement will reap important propaganda returns, and still more issues complicate matters.

However, by making the public statements he did, the President also signaled our European allies that the U.S. supports the proposals they have made. By sending Hillary Clinton to Egypt to meet with the rebellion's leaders, the President makes a low-key but vital endorsement. By positioning U.S. naval assets near the Libyan coast, the President not only takes appropriate precautions to protect Americans if needed, but also to back up any other forces that may decide to make direct actions in Libya.

Some people see all problems as nails, and see all solutions as hammers. Libya is not such a situation. Nor are Yemen, Bahrain, Jordan, Syria, Tunisia and Morocco.

Pietro:

Great responses. It has always been the GOP/TP way to bomb first ask questions later. And if you do not like the answer make up some of your own like they did for Iraq. And if we did get involved in Lybia, where are we going to get the troops? Pull them out of Afghan (again)?

President Obama is the only adult in the room and I trust his judgement a lot more than the right wingers as he has all the information and he is thinking three, four, five steps ahead. It is the same old same old. The right is never going to give President Obama any credit at all. If he could walk on water they would try and criticize him for not being able to swim (even if he can, which he can). It is because their positions are so weak, the few they have. Wisconsin has opened up Pandora's box and people are starting to look at what is in their Bills and they are not happy. Same complaint over and over, that is not what I thought I voted for

I can't believe how far out you guys will go to justify the inaction by President Obama. If it's none of our business then he shouldn't opine on the matter. What happened to such great comments as "Ghadaffi should leave" and "The noose is tightening". This is the President who made a speech in Cairo calling for change in the Arab/Muslim world. Did he think it would be ignored? Why did he tell Murbarak to go and not the Royal family of Bahrain? No consistancy at all.

Right now they are reconsidering a no-fly zone plus air attacks. I mean can anybody tell me what this guy stands for?

I'm no fan of Bush but least you knew where you stood. This guy shifts like sand. Is he an ally or will he throw you under the bus? So far if you are no longer an asset it looks like he will drop you as fast as possible. You say Americas standing in the world has improved? Where? Think the UK is enamored any more? Germany, France, Israel, Jordan, Egypt? All this President is proving is how irrelevant he is. But he got the Peace Prize....I hope those Norwegians are impressed by his actions now.

Pietro and John A.,

So you are saying Obama's foreign policy is to follow the Useless Nations - the organization that had Libya on their Human Rights Committee?

Yep, you guys "nailed" that one.

Thanks for the laugh, guys.

Alan - good comments.

Great reference to Curveball, Pietro. Did you see the televised info with him over the weekend? Amazing stuff. He lied repeatedly and unashamedly. When asked to tell the truth he announced that he couldn't promise to do that and ended the interview!

So now the same Neocons who believed an ADMITTED and OPEN LIAR want to be critical that we don't have Marines on the beach in Tripoli. Seems to me with their demonstrated level of credibility a more appropriate level of participation would be for them to go try to find a job they can handle....WalMart Greeter comes to mind.

Alan, NJ - the President - or anyone, for that matter - can say whatever they want about a situation in a foreigh country. I personally don't care about that. What I do care about is this - are we going to get sucked into ANOTHER conflict - which is NONE OF OUR BUSINESS in the FIRST place - by sending troops to 'defend our honour'?

That's a canard and even YOU don't believe that.

Besides, Alan, you are the Budget wonk on here. How are you going to pay for this 'action'??

US Armed forced are for OUR protection. OURS. Not Libya's, not Egypt's. OURS.

You were ok with President Bush because you knew where we stood. Well, that is all well and good, but President Bush was IRRESPONSIBLE with OUR Troops and Armed Forces. President Obama, so far, is NOT irresponsible.

Backchannel negotiations are usually a lot more effective that showing up trying to foister Democracy using bullets. That kind of 'cowboy diplomacy' is hopefilly LONG GONE.

And for Bob (numbers) - Laugh away. At least there are no US Troops getting shot at in a conflict that we have no business in.

@Pietro

What I said

"I'm no fan of Bush but least you knew where you stood."

What you saw

"You were ok with President Bush because you knew where we stood."

To your other comments. If you actually look past your hero worship of President Obama, substantially there is very little difference between their actions in foreign policy. Bush invaded Iraq, Obama escalated Afghanistan. Bush opened Gitmo and allowed indefinite detention; Obama uses Bahgram for indefinite detention. Bush supported rendition and secret wire-tapping, so does Obama. Bush used drones in Pakistan, Obama has increased drone use in Pakistan.

So what do you hang your hat on? Obama doesn't waterboard? What I find amusing is that if Bush is war criminal why is Obama a peace Prize winner?

Some people just dont realize that inaction is sometime's whats needed...

if you feel like Johnny Rambo... you can pick up your free plane ticket and go fight with the rebels in Libya.

The president is allowed to say "Gadhafi must go", but he is not allowed to do anything else; afterall, he's not their president or the leader of the rebels. And he can not send in troops.

Something has to be done about Gadhafi, but let the UN take care of this one... we can not support it, financially or militarily. Once you guys get that, you'll shut-up.

Looks like the Obama administrated is ramped up, online, and ready for some decisive action in Libya. Just in time to greet Qaddafi's troops as they murder, ehh, evict the rebel forces from their last stronghold, Benghazi. 31 days into the conflict, the Obama administration has asked for a UN resolution on the matter! Glory be!

Qaddafi, look out! That noose is tightening!

The money quote: The move comes as Qaddafi forces have made "significant strides" against the rebels in Libya. Qaddafi forces said it would cease military operations on Sunday to give rebels a chance to surrender, without giving further details about the offer, Reuters reported.

What a compassionate guy that Qaddafi, allowing the rebels to surrender. I'm certain they'll be treated well.

Source: http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2011/03/17/seeks-resolution-authorizing-wide-range-strikes-libya/#

Alan,

So what do you hang your hat on? Obama doesn't waterboard? What I find amusing is that if Bush is war criminal why is Obama a peace Prize winner?

You are forgetting the little fact that Bush started the war in Iraq (hundreds of thousands of Iraqis slaughtered)...and took his eye of Afghanistan - justifies the definition of a war criminal to me, if not, then please what is?

Alan.... also Obama doesn't run around the world using the repubs new found term "American Exceptionalism" to deride and demean everyone else, like Bush did... naming his axis of evil... with his stupid cowboy mentality. Don't get me wrong, I like about 50% of Bush's domestic policies... but I found his foreign policy appalling at best.

So there's a clear difference between Obama and Bush... Obama respected other countries, while Bush only respect America.

The White House this afternoon issued a statement calling for action in Libya, including not only the no-fly zone, but also strikes on Ghadafi's armor and artillery. Significantly, the statement insisted that such actions include participation by neighboring Arab states. The statement comes as the United Nations debates a complex resolution endorsing at least a no-fly zone over Libya.

This more aggressive position indicates that there may be some movement towards action by France and Britain, with U.S. support of some kind, but that the sensitivities in the region must be recognized by including neighbor states' services or forces. It is possible that as a consequence of Secretary of State Clinton's visit with Libyan rebel leaders in Egypt, further information has reached the White House on the subject.

It does not appear that the U.S. is calling for troops to enter Libya.

Throughout the Libyan crisis, the U.S. has taken measured positions that reflect a thoughtful assessment of relationships in North Africa, encouraged the rebellion in Libya, and sought to strengthen the positions of other states with more interest in that country. Today's development certainly is a move considerably farther forward - and must be encouraging to the Libyan rebels. The statement apparently is also a signal to the U.N. to take action.

One of the key issues at the U.N. has been support from Russia and China; the more aggressive U.S. posture may signal that diplomatic discussions with those countries have made progress.

Why is it that it's okay for Bush to have taken off for 69 days a year on vacation but Obama is not allowed to come up with a few NCAA brackets? Always the double standard, both ways...

@Tunde

And what do you call Obama's escalation in Afghanistan. How many Afghanis have died since January 2009? What do you call collateral damage to civilians caused by drones? What do you call indefinite detention in Gitmo and/or Bagram. How about rendition? How does 43 and 44 differ?

I am not trying to defend Bush. I think he was a dufus at best. What I find ridiculous is the defense of Obama when he's doing 99% of what Bush did. (...I accept he doesn't waterboard)

...and I'll ask again ... What exactly does Obama stand for?

To your other comments. If you actually look past your hero worship of President Obama, substantially there is very little difference between their actions in foreign policy. Bush invaded Iraq, Obama escalated Afghanistan. Bush opened Gitmo and allowed indefinite detention; Obama uses Bahgram for indefinite detention. Bush supported rendition and secret wire-tapping, so does Obama. Bush used drones in Pakistan, Obama has increased drone use in Pakistan.

So what do you hang your hat on? Obama doesn't waterboard? What I find amusing is that if Bush is war criminal why is Obama a peace Prize winner?

Alan, NJ - what I am 'hanging my hat on' is that we are NOT GETTING INVOLVED MILITARILY in conflicts that really do not pertain to us.

It's really simple.

Besides, you never even acknowledged my question. Let's say that we follow YOUR plan(s) and get involved. How are we going to PAY FOR OUR INVOLVMENT?

Aren't YOU the one on here that is constantly whining about the deficit? Do you think that an escalation of a 'military action' will NOT increase or explode the deficit?

I find it amusing that you are the FIRST one to advocate cuts for just about everything and then in the same breath you want to 'step into' a conflict that is not ours to step into.

Leave these people alone. Let them solve their OWN problems. We have enough of our OWN problems to worry about.

STAY OUT OF IT.

By the way, Navy, Feisty, Bev, Pat, et al ...

Did you notice more mousie tracks here? I did, I did, I sawed 'em wit' my own two eyses!

I hoid it, too: Yes, the stamping of little mousie feet, and voiding on the carpet! Such bad manners, the mousies have.

We can talk all about later at the DDI, I really think tonight's a Scotch-on-the-rocks kind of evening, I'll bring a bottle of Islay 12-year-old to share around.

"Besides, you never even acknowledged my question. Let's say that we follow YOUR plan(s) and get involved. How are we going to PAY FOR OUR INVOLVMENT?"

Same way George H.W. Bush did it. Get the Saudi's and the rest of the Arab League to pony up.

...and by looks of it we are going to get involved. Can't wait for your defense of the latest W.H. move

"I'll bring a bottle of Islay 12-year-old to share around."

A fine peaty malt. Try some Taliskar as well.

Alan, NJ

@Tunde

And what do you call Obama's escalation in Afghanistan. How many Afghanis have died since January 2009? What do you call collateral damage to civilians caused by drones? What do you call indefinite detention in Gitmo and/or Bagram. How about rendition? How does 43 and 44 differ?

Iraq had nothing to do with 9/11....but on the other hand Afghanistan did (by housing both the Taliban and Al-qaeda)... so I say Bush led us into a useless in Iraq, while Obama is trying to clean up the mess Afghan was left in... we all heard that the Taliban and Alqaeda were re-grouping.... and ready to strike the US again, so I say that war is justified to a point - now that it seems that we are winning the war in Afghan again, I would say its time for our boys to head home.

Bush started Gitmo, while Obama is trying to close it (although not yet successful, but it's a stark change). He actually tried to prosecute terrorist in America courts, but the US were against it; why? for the life of me, I don't know.

Obama stayed out of Libya and Egypt.... that's a change, do you doubt that Bush would have went in there?

Obama is by far different from bush, but when you are dealt a bad hand - you progress with what you've got, and thats what Obama's doing.

I was never for the escalation in Afghanistan, nor the war in Iraq for that matter, but your statement "now that it seems that we are winning the war in Afghan again, I would say its time for our boys to head home." makes no sense to me.

"Bush started Gitmo, while Obama is trying to close it" - why does he not close Bagram?

"In May 2010, the BBC reported about nine prisoners who "told consistent stories of being held in isolation in cold cells where a light is on all day and night. The men said they had been deprived of sleep by US military personnel there." When the BBC inquired with the International Committee of the Red Cross about this, the ICRC revealed that since August 2009 it was informed by US authorities about inmated of a second prison where detainees are held in isolation and without access to the International Red Cross that is usually guaranteed to all prisoners"

"Obama stayed out of Libya and Egypt." - care to reconsider this statement?

www.msnbc.msn.com/id/42124388/ns/world_news-mideastn_africa/

Joe in Albany

On Tuesday, Democratic disarray allowed House Speaker John Boehner (R-Ohio) to push through a three-week spending bill cutting $6 billion from federal programs despite 54 of his own members breaking ranks. Democrats missed an opportunity to either leverage their votes for concessions or simply sink Boehner’s bill and show more clearly the depth of his problem with the right wing of his caucus.

So, rather than applaud the Democrats for compromising, they are criticized for not sinking Boehners bill, just because.

Everyone else is so upset that the President can walk and chew gum. Rather than do the right thing, he should collect the rest of our armed forces and send them to Lybia and Egypt or any other middle eastern country that has problems. That way everyone will have something legitimate to criticize.

Because, unlike Bush, he choose to take care of the US and spend his time focusing on taking care of home, he is criticized for not going to war. Because he does his job without fanfare, he is accused of not being narcissistic or arrogant enough. It's ok for everyone to enjoy things they like to do, but not this President, he should take time off and stay in the basement and do nothing to relax. When he goes on tv you want him to go away, "we don't want to see or hear him". Now it's "why isn't he on tv, why is he so quiet". Maybe, we can always hope, that you are looking very hard for something to legitimate to criticize, since your lies are obviously not working.

JoAnnaSmith1

It's to the point that the media can't even get any information out of the newest White House spokes-liar Jay Carney. The media (ABCs Jake Tapper) asked what the US government knows about what is really is going on in Japan, and Carney tells Tapper to "Ask his reporters on the ground in Japan". What?!How disconnected is this administration from reality?....Obama - The Invisible Man......

He did the same thing with Wisconsin and the unions. Obama called what Governor Walker was doing an "assault on unions", and after that, Obama disappeared..........Words generally have consequences, but not when Obama says them. How do you trust a guy that doesn't back up what he says? The answer is easy, you don't.

I know you are really petty. But, is he a liar because he did not give the answer everyone wanted?

What is it that proves the disconnection? Weren't you the one that complained that you did not want to see or hear him, now he is invisible? Next thing you are going to complain that he is too thin and healthy and should go back to smoking.

How and when did he not back up what he said? How should he back up calling what Walker was doing "an assault on unions"?

NOW is when words have consequences. When Gabby was shot, they did not.

JS1. You are such a brainiac, I am sure you can come up with answers.

JS1. You are such a brainiac, I am sure you can come up with answers.

She's a maniac alright... ooops! You said 'brainiac' didn't ya? Good to see you this afternoon Fletch!

PS: Thanks for the assist over on the Angle thread - those posters were even crazier than Angle herself! ;o)

John A:

I will bring that 14 year old GL bottled under bond that the Army Ranger gave me at the American Legion Post last Veteran's day when I did my live broadcast from there to you guys on Newsvine. They still talk about the support they got from you guys.

Navy, NOW you're talkin' good sittin' and sippin'!

I like the Islay because it's a fine single-malt, rich and smooth, and I can afford the 10-year-old stuff.

By the way, did you notice? Another mousie tantrum! Pay no mind to that mousie behind the curtain, it's just looking for fresh diapers.

fletch2: How and when did he not back up what he said?

"Understand this: If American workers are being denied their right to organize and collectively bargain, when I'm in the White House, I'll put on a comfortable pair of shoes myself. I'll walk on that picket line with you, as president of the United States of America. Because workers deserve to know that someone's standing in their corner," - Barack Obama Spartansburg, S.C. - November of 2007

Source: http://thehill.com/blogs/blog-briefing-room/news/146091-obama-in-2007-ill-walk-on-that-picket-line-if-bargaining-rights-threatened

One thing to agree with Fiesty, we need donations to flow into Japan. Why even the big bad evil corporations are doing it. My company just donated $1M and will match employee contributions up to $500k.

Nice try. This is what you said.......He did the same thing with Wisconsin and the unions. Obama called what Governor Walker was doing an "assault on unions", and after that, Obama disappeared....I asked ....How and when did he not back up what he said? How should he back up calling what Walker was doing "an assault on unions"?..

I am well aware Of his comments regarding walking with the union. Considering the comments that you all have made regarding him filling out brackets, while Japan and the middle east have all this crisis. You wouldn't just be accusing him of being invisible, it would now be, rather than concentrating on national security, he is out there marching with union thugs. I am sure the union understands.

I suppose you couldn't answer the first question.

Thanks Feisty, nice seeing you. :>)...As for the Angle thing, all in a days work.....lol.

To reiterate my agreement with Pietro and others.

My thoughts and prayers go to the people of Japan who are struggling against the potential nuclear crisis after the devastating earthquake and tsunami. The US should continue to provide humanitarian and food aid during this time of crisis. The Japanese people will thank us today and tomorrow.

On the other hand, we should be wary of participating in the UN led no-fly zone in Libya. I would hope we have learned enough to stay out of other country’s civil wars. There is no need to get involved in a third conflict in a muslim nation. The Libyan rebels may thank us today for airstrikes but they nor the Arab world will thank us tomorrow. Even with the best of intentions, the course of our actions will be used against us and be a rallying point by our foes as another western intervention.

Regarding Obama filling out his brackets, give me a break. I'm going out for a bit of Green beer. I guess that means both of us don't care about what is going on in the world.

Very well said, Bev. It's an amazing and massive power grab by Conservatives at all levels of government. The breadth and scope of their attack on the middle class, their attack on democracy, and their agenda to enrich the wealthy elites is breathtaking.

Bev:

This is what it is all about. It has nothing to do with lowering spending or what hey call "Fiscal Responsibility". They give huge tax cuts to corporations and the rich and then cut programs to pay for it, which in turn puts all the sacrifice on the backs of the middle class. The old bait and switch just like used car salesmen. It is all part of their plan to rig the elections by disenfranchising millions of people to be able to vote, bust unions trying to hit he Democrats in their campaign pocket book. It is about the GOP/TP paying their bill to the US Chamber of Commerce, Karl Rove, The Kotch Brothers and the other Special Interest Groups. The problem is they are using our money to pay their bills while they get all the benefits.

Good Morning GF!

Nice '3 pointer' to start the day with! ;o)

Yea, Happy St. Patrick's Day ....

BTW - What is Barry O'Bama doing to day?

Yesterday - brackets to show our All American President was a regular guy.

Today? - Irish line dancing on the View? He and Michelle going to have a green beer with their lobster?

Hey Bev. - speaking of the great city of Chicago, how many murders have taken place so far this month?

And as always, thanks for the MoveOn cut and pastes. My computer is broken and would allow me to go there. Now what would we all do without you?

Spanky-

Hey Bev. - speaking of the great city of Chicago, how many murders have taken place so far this month?

And as always, thanks for the MoveOn cut and pastes. My computer is broken and would allow me to go there. Now what would we all do without you?

If I were you I'd be more concerned about being swept up in a tusmani or falling through the crack of the earth.

FYI: Chicago is not the murder capitol.

What's the matter Bev. don't want to answer the question?

Sure I would have a better chance falling off the earth - I'm not a black inter-city Chicago dweller.

How many this month?

Some folks seem to be reluctant to stay on topic. Particularly when the topic is an unprecedented assault on the American way of life by Conservative power brokers and their bought and paid for political flunkies.

Pat in Boston, I hope her husband didn't help her write the legislation. Since he served jail time for bank fraud.

Bev, that was a terrific post.

John B, yeah, I noticed the same things. That's why I just drop us all a little reminder about the connectedness of everything and significance of events a millenium from now in a galaxy far, far away:

More mousie tracks and uncontrolled bladders! When they stamp they little mousie feet, it splashes! Ugh!

Have a Scotch on my tab tonight at the DDI!

Spanky: How many this month?

52. Up from 44 same time last year. Regular shoot'n gallery.

Source: http://chicago.cbslocal.com/2011/03/11/uptick-reported-in-chicago-murders-sexual-assaults-this-year/

In an article on CNN money today, many economists believe that the dramatic cost cutting in state, local, and the federal governments is the 2nd biggest threat to the US economy. The first is the high price of oil. Many conservative economists believe at this time, a tax increase is preferable to these drastic cuts. They don't believe that the economy is strong enough to survive all of this cost cutting. They know that these deficits have to addressed, but it should wait until after the economy improves.

Mixed,

He put the fy2011 budget out over a year ago. It is and has been the duty of Congress to approve it or modify it.

The President can offer ideas but Congress always has the last word.

Former Speaker Pelosi never passed a budget for FY 2011 in the House, Dennis...despite her large majority.

That's how we got here.

Congressional Democrats were unable to produce an agreement to extend the Bush tax cuts...President Obama did.

Time to lead...again.

The 2011 budget wasn't passed last year because the GOP Senate refused to play legislator and instead planned to do their usual delay, deny, amend to kingdom come, block and otherwise obstruct. Senator Reid, Speaker Pelosi, President Obama said fine, table it, we'll get the rest of our agenda passed and if there's time in the lame duck, talk budget. What the GOP failed to recognize was this: by playing the delay and obstruct game, the newly elected House GOPTP majority would be required to do the hard work this year and what has happened, the republican party has split itself into the GOP and the TP proving how ineffective republicans are at leadership. Think about it. Was this a mistake by Congressional democratic leadership and the White House or was it an organized plan to undermine the GOPTP?

Sorry, Jody...

For the two years after President Obama was elected, Speaker Pelosi and Congressional Democrats passed whatever they liked over the objections of the Republican House minority...whatever they liked.

Please...don't tell me Pelosi couldn't have passed a budget for FY 2011.

Dennis - no matter how many times you put out the truth about the budget, Mixed bag is going to insist that it is the President that needs to lead on this issue. Mixed Bag discounts the fact that it is the HOUSE that writes budget legislation, NOT the President. Mixed bag conviently FORGETS that it is the JOB of the Speaker of the House to get the HOUSE in order and get that legislation debated and written.

But, as it has been his meme for the past week or so, it is the President's fault we don't have a budget. Expect that we will continue to see posts from Mixed Bag trying to foist this fallacy daily, if not hourly.

So, Speaker Boehner, where is the budget? Where are the JOBS?

Republicans claimed to have a plan.

Republicans have run the House of Representatives for months already.

All budgetary action originates in the House.

Where is the Republican plan?

The large Democratic majority in the House should have dealt with the expiring Bush tax cuts long before the expiration date...they failed to, although it was their responsibilty.

President Obama stepped in and negotiated an extension of the tax cuts.

Congressional Democrats are suggesting he needs to act again.

They are correct.

Pay attention, John B.-

The House Republicans passed a bill with $61 billion in tax cuts for FY 2011, and sent it along to the Senate where it essentially became the Republican Senate budget proposal.

Senate Democrats countered with a bill cutting $6.5 billion from the 2011 budget.

Both proposals were voted on and failed to pass.

The two sides are so far apart that someone must bridge the gap.

That "someone" is President Obama.

By the way...excellent thread, people!

Pietro:

Dennis - no matter how many times you put out the truth about the budget, Mixed bag is going to insist that it is the President that needs to lead on this issue. Mixed Bag discounts the fact that it is the HOUSE that writes budget legislation, NOT the President.

There can be no progress on cutting the budget deficit unless the Republicans get serious about it and start going along with tax increases, which they successfully blocked in the Senate even before they won control of the House. The fact that they've wasted their time and the salaries the taxpayers pay them on vindictive moves like their futile attempt to defund NPR and Planned Parenthood shows they just aren't serious.

Obama has already gone too far to accommodate these people, whose only serious goal is to destroy his presidency. They intend to wreck the US economy if that what it will take. And it probably is what it will take since presidents almost always win reelection if the economy is good or is perceived to be recovering.

Mixed,

The President has already stated what cuts he would not accept. What more does Congress want? After all they are the ones that said they didn’t like the budget he submitted a year ago.

It is time for some leadership in Congress. If they can’t do their job then why do we pay them?

OK, First Readers-

Who is betting against President Obama stepping in to resolve the Senate's budget impasse?

Who's betting against him putting his own number on the table?

Who's betting against him acting to prevent a federal government shutdown, the same way he acted to prevent a general tax increase for every American taxpayer?

When members of his own party are pleading for an intervention?

Let's get everyone on the record, shall we?

Mixed: For the two years after President Obama was elected, Speaker Pelosi and Congressional Democrats passed whatever they liked over the objections of the Republican House minority...whatever they liked.

No. If that's true, then why is there a backlog of appointments and bills, hundreds of them, still waiting for approval from congressional Republicans? Republicans have repeatedly stated their intention to block progress to make the President look bad. That's why things don't get done.

Same old crap. Boehner is sitting on his hands, doing nothing and somehow it is President Obama's fault that Boehner cannot even lead his own troops. 54 of his so called people did not back him on the last bill.

The ball on this is now in Boehner's court and he keeps fumbling it, President Obama told him what he would accept and what he would not, the GOP/TP still will not compromise.

Answer my question, Navy.

Go on the record.

Will President Obama put a number on the table to resolve the Senate budget impasse, or not?

No one's willing to answer?

MB: Who is betting against President Obama stepping in to resolve the Senate's budget impasse?

It's not clear it matters much anymore. Face it, the GOP and Obama are arguing over $60 billion dollars. The national debt increased in February by $223 billion, and yesterday alone by $72 billion. Obama has submitted a 2012 budget with $1.65 trillion in defiict spending. The deficit spending averages about $4.5 billion a day, every day, including weekends and holidays. It's pretty much a waste of time to even talk about a minuscule $60 billion the way Obama is spending it.

It's getting to the the point where it's not clear anyone can control this spending. It's going to fall to the bondholders to not buy the bonds anymore before the government addresses the problem.

The House Republicans passed a bill with $61 billion in tax cuts for FY 2011

They also insisted on $70B/yr in extended tax breaks for the wealthy. That would mean they've made the deficit $131B WORSE.

When do they come up with a plan to make it better?

How about you, John B.-

Want to bet against President Obama stepping in to resolve the Senate budget impasse?

Correction:

The House Republicans passed a bill with $61 billion in SPENDING cuts for FY 2011; not tax cuts.

Thanks, John B.

Really...?

Not a single liberal/progressive First Read blogger is willing to go on the record with an answer?

Mixed - Again, I admire your determination to engage the Left on the budget crisis, but you're just not going to get anything out them, I don't think they even understand the issue. It's just not clear to them that the government is broke. We had the debate yesterday where some on the Left say we just need "minor corrections" to maintain the solvency of Social Security. For the federal budget, the entitlements alone consume every dime of tax revenue that is taken in. Say you tweak SS to the tune of $500 billion in savings per year by raising the income limit and raising the age of eligibility (which would not even come close to saving $500 billion/year, again this is just an example), you'd still be at $1 trillion in deficit spending every year.

The entire federal government budget needs to be reworked, from tax policy to entitlement spending. It's an absolute mess. And Obama won't lead. That's not what he does. It's up to Congress to lead, and Boehner has shown some leadership skills while Reid stands there with that deer-in-the-headlights look of his.

The country needed a hero, but we ended up with Obama.

Oh just come on Mixed - they are following their "leader" by voting present.

Again John, Peitro and everyone else those horrible terrible disastrous tax "cuts" were signed into law by Obama. So was he stupid, or are you all going to give him credit? It sure seems like he thinks they are a good idea, so why do you all disagree? Are you saying 1. he doesn't know what he's doing, or 2. he did it solely for political reasons?

And just for giggles, which is worse?

And don't worry, I don't expect any actual responses from you libbies.

There can be no progress on cutting the budget deficit unless the Republicans get serious about it and start going along with tax increases, which they successfully blocked in the Senate even before they won control of the House. The fact that they've wasted their time and the salaries the taxpayers pay them on vindictive moves like their futile attempt to defund NPR and Planned Parenthood shows they just aren't serious.

Houston - you are correct in your assessment. The Republicans are concentrating on the 12% of DISCRETIONARY spending as a place to cut. They are not even attempting to look at the Defense spending whoud could be trimmed by at least $200 BILLION. This whole exercise is Kabuki theatre, and with the flurry of Continuing Resolutions, the GOPers are kicking the deficit issue down the road - again - in hopes that a bad economy will gain them the White House, which is their 'prize'.

I am all for cutting redundancies in Government, which would save at least $100 BILLION, and MAYBE that could be a place where the Republicans and the President can START.

How about you, Pietro?

Are you willing to go on the record betting that President Obama won't intervene in the Senate budget impasse?

You can be the first one, Pietro...

Pietro - and where shall Reid start?

I know, I know, Cowboy Poetry.

Say did the dems do any kicking of that can at all in the last say 2 years? I have not heard about an alternative plan from Pelosi, what's she up to these days?

Spanky-

Excellent article by Politico's Jonathan Allen today entitled "Democrats wonder: Where's our plan?".

It tells you exactly what Pelosi and the rest of the House Democratic leadership has been up to...it appears to add up to being in a state of confusion.

Mixed,

It is a trick question. If anyone’s answer is “yes” or “no” you will frame it a failure for the President’s leadership.

How about a statement from you about what level of spending would be appropriate to both reduce spending and not stall the fragile economy like was done in 1937.

Then tell us what programs (not departments) and how much to cut. Tell us also what programs should be left alone.

No trick at all, Dennis.

President Obama either will or he won't.

The last sentence of my first post tells you what I think.

I'm already on the record.

So...jump in, Dennis!

The water's fine!

As for my cuts...well, I'll just go along with the President's debt commission's recommendations for across-the-board cuts (including defense) and their recommended tax increases.

Mixed,

The debt commission said that cuts should not be put in place until the economy is in a sustained recovery – we are a couple years from that mark.

I say he has said enough on the matter and it is time for the congressional members and leaders (Boehner & Reid) to work out a plan given the President’s guidelines of a few weeks ago.

Pietro:

You are correct. Until the politicians start looking at everything we cannot take any proposals now are even being remotely serious. The call a crisis meeting yesterday to discuss defunding NPR. Come on, give us a break.

They have to look at the fraud, waste, mismanagement, programs that no longer work or give any valid benefit and the redundancy that is rabid in the DOD, Federal Government, Medicare/Medicaid. As you said, there are hundreds of Billions that we can save there. They also need to close the tax loopholes that allow corporations to stash their money in oversea accounts and avoid taxes and reward them for farming jobs overseas. They need to stop subsidies to those corporations that do not need them. The Income Tax Cuts and Estate Tax cuts need to go, that is a 150 Billion PER YEAR right there alone. Then we can start looking at the discretionary spending and weed out those that do not have an real value in moving this country forward.

Also is must be noted that these spending cuts alone will not work, we have to increase revenues and the easiest way to do that is create jobs, you know those things that the GOP/TP campaign on but now have abandoned. We have almost 3 Trillion Dollars in infrastructure repairs that are need. A work program for those alone would create a lot of primary jobs and secondary support jobs as well. Hundreds and hundreds of thousands of jobs according to most leading economists. This would increase revenues at the State and Federal levels, more money in the economy, small businesses would have more customers to sell their products and services to, etc.

Dennis-

I would urge you to make a careful examination of the document issued by the debt commission. From its Preamble through its Plan, it consistently stresses the urgent need for action. It's a remarkably comprehensive proposal. I recommend that you take some time to wade through it. I haven't seen where they've counseled delay. Can you point me to that section?

Now...

You can post as many responses as you like, but I'll keep asking:

Will President Obama put a proposal on the table in an effort to resolve the Senate budget impasse?

You can still be the first liberal to answer, Dennis.

Congratulations, Republicans only made the deficit $9B worse. Is that a victory for the "party of fiscal responsibility?" They were going to fix this, it was their mantra during the campaign. Now you want to know what President Obama is going to do?

No such luck, Conservatives. You wanted this job, it's yours.

I still don't see a plan to balance the budget while cutting taxes.

BTW, the commission didn't issue a report. Alan Simpson and Erskine Bowles issued a report over the objections of the commission. As a group they never approved anything. You know that because it's been pointed out repeatedly, but facts don't matter, do they?

Actually, John B.-

They went so far as to issue a Plan to address the debt crisis, and 11 of the debt commission's 18 members (including sitting Democratic U.S. Senators Dick Durbin and Kent Conrad) signed off on The Plan. You should read it, John.

Will President Obama put a number on the table to bridge the gap between the Democratic and Republican spending cut proposals in the Senate?

John B, Des Moines, IA: BTW, the commission didn't issue a report. Alan Simpson and Erskine Bowles issued a report over the objections of the commission. As a group they never approved anything. You know that because it's been pointed out repeatedly, but facts don't matter, do they?

Yes the Debt Commission issued a report. It can be found at: http://www.fiscalcommission.gov/sites/fiscalcommission.gov/files/documents/TheMomentofTruth12_1_2010.pdf

There were no objections to issuing the report.

As a group, the Commission members voted 11-7 against formally endorsement of the Commissions plan. The purpose of a formal endorsement would have been to require an up/down vote of the plan without amendment in Congress.

The President thanked his Commissions members for their time and efforts, has since ignored everything they recommended, and submitted a 2012 budget with $1.65 trillion in deficit spending.

Those are the facts.

And John, if you don't like the Commissions plan, what plan do you endorse?

MIxed Bag,

Nope and Nope. You've forgotten that Republicans in the Senate filibuster at three times the pace ever seen before in American history, and especially bills that might create jobs.

All of the noisy, Koch/Rove orchestrated power-grabbing agendas from the right to crush unions and balance budgets on the backs of the middle class in favor of tax cuts for the rich, has been long, long planned. Of course strategicaly, it distracts from the Republican preMidterm election big game/lie/pretence about job creation. Creating jobs is nowhere in their equation. Sadly, GOP does not have the creative will/capacity to create jobs for a successful future America.

Hundreds of pieces of legislation were passed by the Pelosi-led House in the last Congress. I thought it was 400, but now I have learned it is closer to 700. The record is unprecedented. All of that legislation was summarily docked on the head and trashed by Republicans in the Senate. If you don't know this, why not? Ask why you do not know.

I cannot and do not believe that you are not aware of the dismantle and privatize agenda from the right. And the inherent chaos which they revel in creating. Destructiveness and negative action just like bad movies, is easypeasy to do. Democrats care about common sense and it is clear that they alone will create a 21st century future of innovation which includes all of us.

There is a misconception in the US that other countries will not compete for the future with great and giant gusto. If we fall any lower in Ed, and Science and Tech. we'll end up serving the greedy masters here while floating capsized in the global economic waters. Mixed Bag be willing to see what is right now under your nose.

Thanks, Backhouse.

We have one "nay" vote.

Anyone else?

Actually, JoAnna-

I believe they voted 11-7 in favor of formally endorsing their Plan.

14 votes were needed to move their Plan to an up or down vote in Congress.

Meaning?

Mixed,

“You can post as many responses as you like, but I'll keep asking:

Will President Obama put a proposal on the table in an effort to resolve the Senate budget impasse?”

Must I repeat? “I say he has said enough on the matter and it is time for the congressional members and leaders (Boehner & Reid) to work out a plan given the President’s guidelines of a few weeks ago.”

In case you don’t understand what I said it means NO.

Meaning you answered "nope" to the question I posed:

Will President Obama broker a deal between Senate Democrats and Republicans to resolve the current impasse in cutting spending for the current FY 2011 budget...the same way he brokered a deal to extend all of the Bush tax cuts?

Did you read the thread, Backhouse?

Thanks for the clarification, Dennis.

You appear to be the only liberal, so far, capable of answering, one way or the other.

I thought it was a pretty easy question to answer, actually.

14 votes were needed to move their Plan to an up or down vote in Congress.

Then you are aware of the facts...you just don't care.

Mixed you are correct, the vote was 11-7 in favor of the plan, but a super majority of 14 votes was required for the up/down vote to take place in Congress.

The debt commission said that cuts should not be put in place until the economy is in a sustained recovery

Not exactly. The Commissions plan said "We need a comprehensive plan now to reduce the debt over the long term. But budget cuts should start gradually so they don't interfere with the ongoing economic recovery."

That means you start cutting now, like, maybe $60 billion from a $3.7 trillion dollar budget. That's gradual.

Blackhouse; I continued to be amazed by those on the left on constantly use the 'Kock Brothers' as a reference for 'bad people'. My question is, in order to be objective, why don't the liberals EVER bring up the Soros involvement with the Dem Party; his billions funding MoveOn, ect. I guess the reason is that liberals are OK with multimillioairs spending their money on political campaigns/goals 'as long as it meets a progressive-liberal agenda'. By the way, 'who' do you think is the real money power behind Obama other than Soros and the unions in the country?

NJJ, we're talking about the difference between people who are working on behalf of a strong middle class and those who are working to destroy the middle class. It isn't just money from rich people, it's their vision for America.

C'mon, John B.-

Dennis did it.

Are you sure you can't answer?

Up or down...

Yes or no.

Will President Obama broker a deal on the budget impasse as he did with the extension of the Bush tax cuts?

Backhouse:

Great posts today. Keep posting you have a lot to say.

MB

There are a couple of basic fallacies with your Option A or Option B scenario; but what I find so completely laughable right now is that it appears you are harkening back to a 'better' time in our country when a Republican Congress passed Budgets that they KNEW were false and then later passed SUPPLEMENTARY Funding Bills to continue gorging themselves at the buffet.

So, while I admire your tenacity at continuing to beat the DRUM of President Obama's leadership (or lack thereof, according to you); why doesn't the House with the responsibility for doing it NOW step up to the plate? Back during their summer of WOE they came up with a healthcare plan, if I recall - and it didn't have any numbers. I imagine their budget attempts look pretty similar.

The problem with the buffet approach - is that the items that WERE approved weren't paid for either. So the supplementals were truly additional burdens.

It isn't a priority for Boehner and Company - AND they don't have the faintest idea how to approach it. I assure you, defunding and reinstating the Culture Wars isn't wise politically or financially. They prove every day that they aren't serious because they refuse to go where the money is:

Tax Increases (or VAT) AND Defense cuts

Hi, Clara-

Glad you decided to weigh in too!

The longer this thread lasts...the better it gets.

But...

Before we move on...

Only Dennis was willing to answer my question.

Will you?

Honestly, First Read liberal/progressives...

You know who you are...

Navy, John B., Jody, fielden, Clara, newcomer Backhouse, Houston, Pietro (yes..he's far too high on the list), et al...

If only Dennis has the courage to respond to the question of whether (or not) President Obama will put a number on the table to resolve the Senate impasse over cuts in spending for current FY 2011 spending...

After more than five hours...

Aren't we done here?

It doesn't matter, MB. If he does he'll be criticized by the Right for it. If he doesn't he'll be criticized by the Right.

That's the real issue. Conservatives would rather blame Barack Obama than take charge of the process they promised to fix if elected.

Dang, John B.-

This is worse than pulling teeth...!

Got an answer?

Will he bridge the gap between Senate Democrats and Republicans?

Will he try?

By the way, John B.

I think we have a first here...

When you say it doesnt matter...

I believe you're agreeing with JoAnnaSmith1.

Will wonders never cease, John?

MB

My son had a tooth surgically removed today - and I dispute your assertion that this is worse than that.

Perhaps what has happened here is that no one is interested in playing the ole bait and switch? Just a theory I'm kicking around.

"Who is betting against President Obama stepping in to resolve the Senate's budget impasse?

Who's betting against him putting his own number on the table?"

Well...I guess that's it.

You're the man, Dennis...I disagree with you, but at least you know what you believe and are willing to say it.

Only one of you could answer or offer an opinion...one way or the other.

At First Read...an MSNBC website.

Amazing.

I answered you Bag...it's a nontroversy, an insignificant point, something that doesn't matter. The President will play his cards in whatever way seems best, and whatever he does Conservatives will scream about how it was wrong. At this point I literally don't care.

drive by,

Amen to that. We would be in deep do-do, if those two were in charge.

Please Insult Me!

"What if" scenarios?

Weak argument.

Even a weak argument is better than none at all, which is what you have justifying any Republican being in the White House, let alone Bomb Bomb McCain and his sidekick Sarah Death Panel.

At the very least, we can infer that the banks would have been permitted to crash along with Wall Street, and the U.S. would no longer be making cars. The states would all be in much worse financial shape, and taxes for the rich would be even lower than they are now.

Beyond that, we can only speculate about what all that would have done to the world.

Wisconsin, Indiana, Ohio, Iowa, and a group of other states taking collective bargaining rights away from unions.

Michigan's GOPTP governor gaining the ability to take over smaller governmental bodies by decree, turn out elected representatives and appoint his own administrators.

Efforts to restrict reproductive rights, worker rights, voting rights, and route money to the wealthy elites.

Quibble if you like at the word "Communist", but these measures are certainly authoritarian.

You know when you are a little crazy and you know it, you probably are not dangerous to anyone. But, when you are crazy and don't know it, you are dangerous to those around you. Seems you are very dangerous.

And here are more states where it is happening 22 of them:

22 GOP/TP Controlled States Disenfranchise Millions of Voters across the Country

http://thinkprogress.org/2011/03/05/state-disenfranchisement-schemes/

All of them trying to take away one of our most fundamental rights: TO VOTE. Communism/fascism here we come.

These Republicans-Tea People have pulled the biggest con in American history on the American People who voted them in. Hopefully, we will soon see a massive recall on these con artist.

I don't see any Conservatives on the board making an effort to disprove anything said above. When the shoe fits...

Navy, It is really pathetic that you draw such a conclusion from actions that are taken in an effort to solve financial problems that just cannot continue. Greed catches up to everybody. Now it has caught up to private sector unions. You continue to spread hate and misinformation. Interesting that your ideas are more communistic than any of the public figures you rant about and label everyday. You are a coward and a fraud.

If the shoe fits where it. So far none of the the right wingers have been able to disprove the fact that they are on an ideology that has an disturbing similarity to fascism/despotism or whatever. Trying to deny Americans, many who have voted all their lives, their right to vote, as 22 states are currently trying to do is repugnant and in no way American. This is one of the most despicable attacks on the American people I have seen in a long time and it is for one purpose only. Power and Greed, the 2 GODS of the GOP/TP Party. It is that simple.

Look at Michigan, the Governor there is trying to gain "King/DESPOT" status as are others. Complete and total control of 98% of the people is their only goal. PERIOD!! And they will do anything to eliminate what or who they perceive to be in the way.

Please PROVE this not to be true. Show us what you are doing to create jobs like you said you would, Show us the plan for improving the economy like you said you would. You guys/gals are nothing more than stale hot air and the people are wising up. PROVE US WRONG. Show us the proof your ideology is not similar to fascism/nazism/communism/despotism. SHOW US!!!!!!

You are a very hateful person. You have chosen to live your life as a victim. You have zero respect for anyone with a different view. That is your choice to make. You keep ranting about proving one thing or another. What you present is opinion not fact. Quoting from sources that have the same opinoin. You are welcome to your opinoin and your self serving views. Maybe you are just so narrow minded that you are unaware of what you sound like. Once again, you are a very shallow person and more than likely a fraud. I bet you blamed your teachers in school when you failed.

Looks to me, Tony C and RVZ555, like US Navy just called you out. Now are you going to provide some proof, like he asks, or are you just going to continue to bore us with your 'commentary'?

Oh, so lets use the same thinking. Can Navy prove me wrong about my opinion of him? Can the coward speak for himself? Wow, who's commentary is boring? What a laugh. I am not hiding behind a fake "handle".

You can distort the facts all day and start to believe yourself. Obama does it all day long.

I think you're all losing your minds. If you'd like to make those types of statements, and then expect conservatives to rebut them, then try this one on for size:

How many "czars" have been appointed by the Obama administration, and which one has the most power to impact the entire nation? Keep in mind, that none of these individuals have been elected, unlike the govenors and state representatives that are currently in power in the four states that John B mentions, and that several others have chimed in on.

I'll go with my favorite, "Global Warming Czar", Carol Browner, a brand new "czar", created by President Obama, and not confirmed by the Senate. There are a number of these folks, and all many presidents have had some of them, but the argument put forth in many of the comments posted above remind me of the old saw:

"When did you stop beating your spouse?"

Those of you above that are complaining about elected officials (apparently for most of you they aren't even in your state, and they hold state offices), acting in a pre-emptive manner on an item that may or may not occur, is tantamount to being a nazi, a communist, a dictator etc. I don't live in Michigan, but if California's Governor had acted to better monitor cities, I believe that we wouldn't have folks like Robert Rizzo in the City of Bell making millions of dollars at the taxpayers expense. We also wouldn't have had cities with school districts that failed miserably at educating our children, because the city had run out of money, or had entered into obligations that made it impossible to manage their finances. And, just as in Michigan, Wisconsin, Ohio, et al, if the voting public doesn't like the actions of their elected officals, there is the opportunity of a recall election in certain circumstances, and if not a recall, then a general election is usually less than four years away.

If you truly believe that all member of the party that you don't belong to have nefarious motives, then you should probably make arrangements to get some help. I'm a Republican, and I don't believe that all Democrats are nazis, communists, dictators, or evil. There may be some that fit that bill, but by and large, I even give Jerry Brown a pass on those descriptors. By the same token, all Republicans are not deserving of my support, not on the basis of party affiliation, and not on the basis of actions taken. You all should really step outside of the little boxes you live in, get a breath of fresh air, try something new, because it appears that you are becoming unhinged.

And after all that RVZ555 and Tony C have posted, we are STILL looking for some definitive proof that US Navy is wrong in his assertions.

Where's the PROOF??

Living in LA, seems you see things the way they really are which is refreshing. The "who is to blame" and "how we got here" crowd just keeping bringing up the past over and over again. The previous admnistration made plenty of mistakes. However, this nation has real issues that need attention. Least of which is the financial mess. The Congress and the President have done a poor job in terms of really being serious when it comes to this nations financial security. The economy will not improve until we address the debt in a responsible way. The President has not shown leadership. You can be blind to this fact if you wish. But it is a fact. If his motive is political, and it may be, he really is just another politican.

Old Navy--If our ideology was similar to the evils you have listed above, righties all over the nation (and on this board) would be advocating that you and everyone who thinks like you, be rounded up, put in concentration camps, then exterminated

Why not let Conservatives speak for themselves?

Liberals are traitors – at least the self-conscious ones are. And it is not because they hate Bush or disagree with the Iraq war. Their treason stems from their behavior – from the way they go around telling everyone that they hate Bush and disagree with the war – even to the extent that they sympathize with and give material aid to the enemy.

Like Goldberg, I use to think that liberals are just saying these "stupid" and "loony" things because they like defending the "underdog" – after all, that's what liberals are supposed to do.

The only problem is the context doesn't fit the bill. Terrorist aren't underdogs. They are enemies.

Read more: Liberal traitors http://www.wnd.com/news/article.asp?ARTICLE_ID=57279#ixzz1GsZdeotA

Tomorrow for once in your pathetic sinful and meaningless liberal lives could you resist burning an American flag? Just for one day could you pretend you actually care about this country just a little bit? I realize this is as likely as one of you liberals actually reading the Bible, but I have to ask for America’s sake.

http://cfav.blogspot.com/2006/07/liberal-traitors-stop-burning-american.html

Adkisson targeted the church, Still wrote in the document obtained by WBIR-TV, Channel 10, "because of its liberal teachings and his belief that all liberals should be killed because they were ruining the country, and that he felt that the Democrats had tied his country’s hands in the war on terror and they had ruined every institution in America with the aid of media outlets."

Adkisson told Still that "he could not get to the leaders of the liberal movement that he would then target those that had voted them in to office."

http://firedoglake.com/2008/07/28/knoxville-update-all-liberals-should-be-killed/

Get off your high horses and admit it...Conservatives have been painting Liberals as treasonous individuals devoted to overthrowing the United States for years. You can't pretend otherwise.

Sorry, I do not respond to mushrooms. Their rhetoric is irrelevant and dripping in hate and lies. They have been exposed for what they really are. They are the true cowards (because their positions are so weak) just trying to BS their way through. Well they just keep proving my point with their hate speech. Their current ideology that they are following cannot be disputed if one looks at what the GOP/TP is proposing.

Disenfranchisement of voters trying to deny millions their right to vote (22 States all GOP controlled) trying to rig the voting laws

Attacks on the rights of women, gays, immigrants and religious intolerance (Muslim Hearing)

Union Busting to again try and rig elections

Governors trying to put themselves in the position of "Kings/Despots" so they can fire elected officials and cancel contracts like for teachers, fire fighters, law enforcement, community health clinics, etc

The redistribution of Power and Wealth to the richest 2% - They have to pay back the Special Interest Groups that bought them

And the list goes on and on

I do not have to prove to anybody who or what I am. But for the right the cat is out of the bag and what you stand for is not American, not by a long shot. There are many in the GOP/TP who are not supporting this far right ideology. Even those that voted in some of these people are now signing petitions to recall them.

Pietro, I answered his rant. It is his opinoin. Proof of what? That he has an opinion. I know one thing. The coward doesn't speak for himself. Where is the proof that I am wrong about my belief that he is a fraud. What is the we? Do you have a mouse in your pocket called Navy?

Tony C

You are the coward and a fraud. You have no idea of what you are talking about. Navy has forgotten more than you will ever know. First of all, it’s these elected Republican-Tea people who spread all of these lies to the people who were fools enough to vote for them, that are causing the overall problems in government.

Please stop trying to serve the corporate masters who want to drive down the poor and the middle class.

Pietro, I answered his rant. It is his opinoin. Proof of what? That he has an opinion. I know one thing. The coward doesn't speak for himself. Where is the proof that I am wrong about my belief that he is a fraud. What is the we? Do you have a mouse in your pocket called Navy?

You see, Tony C, if you had come back with SOMETHING of SOME probative value, then we could discuss the merits. Now, all I see is that you are interested in what is in my pocket, like you could really handle what is in there in the first place.

More character assasinations, innunedoes, and hyperbole. Trying to 'prove' your manhood.

Please.

Is that REALLY what you are all about?

Where is the PROOF that US Navy is wrong?

Do some homework, for goodness sake. Find some citations that bolster your argument.

All of the rest of what you have posted is hot, steaming hyperbole. Get back to me when you actually have something to discuss.

You are welcome to your opinoin also. Navy is a fraud. Where is the proof that I am wrong? You can vote the way you like. I respect that point. Unfortunately you seem to not respect someone else's right to vote differently than you. Your opinoin is just that an opinoin. You are right, this country is full of evil corporations and the people that serve them driving down the poor and the middle class. You call people communists? Look in the mirror.

My opinion is that this so called Navy is a coward and a fraud. Prove me wrong? He seems to believe he is right about his opinion unless I can prove him wrong. Same goes for me. He plays the victim quite well and has you fooled. He just rants about how he doesn't need to prove anything. Interesting from someone who rants about everybody else needing to provide proof. What a fraud.

Navy, now I see how it works with you. You are the only one entitled to the proof. As you say, you have nothing to prove to anyone. Interesting. Not really, can you say double standard? The only person being exposed here is you. You sure like the sympathy vote. Keep demanding proof from those that disagree with your misinformation. But you do not need to provide proof. What a double standard and a fraud.

OK, Tony C, what citations and/or links do you have to bolster your position? US Navy provided his... where are yours?

Again, get back to me when you have something of probative value that we can discuss.

I put my proof up for all to see. Look at the proposals being offered by the GOP/TP. Look at what is going on in States like Wisconsin, Ohio and 20 others. Your argument has no meat other than your personal attacks that I have responded to in kind. You are pissed because you cannot not me follow the ideology you support. I never will it is unamerican at best. I could care less about your opinion. That is yours and you have a right to it just like I have a right to mind. I offered proof on why I believe that the GOP/TP is following an ideology that is unamerican. You have yet to prove that this is no so. You can't because the Bills have already been passed, the Spending cuts have been documented along with the tax cuts for corporations and the rich. The GOP/TP is on record in trying to deny women's reproductive rights, opposing equal pay for equal work, DODT, and a bevy of others I have documented as well. You disagree and call me the coward first and I responded in kind.

If the shoe fit wear it. If you do not like it then you better start letting your party know, because this is the path that they are on and you are following them around like a little lap dog and you are mad because you cannot make me do the same. The gig is up and I am not buying the GOP/TP BS. You can follow them blindly all you want, that is your right, but do not try and force that carp on me.

The facts are that this nation has a 14 trillion dollar debt. No budget was passed for 2011. We will have a deficit in excess of a trillion dollars. If cuts are not make across the board, there will be a deficit for 2012. We are borrowing money at an alarming rate. The debt now equals our GDP. This is not sustainable. The answer is not more of the same. The interest rate on the borrowing will increase at some point. Obama has said over and over again the federal government must learn to live within it means. Obama keeps saying we cannot and should not burden future generations with this debt. This talk is not good enough for me. He is no different than any other politican. Where is all the promised transparency? The White House had secret meetings with lobbists during the healthcare reform process and won't release the notes, why? These are facts you seem to deny. There are a lot more that I could quote. The scare tactics about the impact of entitlement cuts are just that scare tactics. Raise taxes, yes. But with the provision that the increased revenue go toward reducing the debt along with a balanced budget admendment. Both parties have been playing games. Yes, both parties. Democrats share in the blame for the financial mess. You want to ignore th facts concerning the CDO mess. The root of the problem was due to Barney Frank and his power. You are the one who is following blindly. Everything you post is one sided.

Tony C - now this is a more reasonable post where we can discuss issues.

I TOTALLY agree with you that if we do raise taxes (and we must, there is no way aorund that), the surplus revenue should be used to pay down the deficit. This, in conjunction with eliminating redundancies, some spending cuts, and INVESTMENT in AMERICA in projects that generate jobs, will be the solution we need to get rid of the deficit. Remember - we have $3 TRILLION in infrastructure repair that NEEDS to be done. Why not make that investment and take the surplus from that investment and pay down the deficit?

I am also in favour of drafting legislation that will specifically state that the surplus revenue generated will be used to pay down the deficit.

Now, I also agree with you that BOTH parties have been kicking the can down the road for too long of a time. Unfortunately for the GOPers, NOW is THEIR time when they control the pursestrings. NOW is the time for them to put up or shut up.

The best thing for the GOPers and the Tea Partyers to do would be to go after the redundancies in Government and use that as a platform to 'prove' that they are doing something to help get rid of the deficit. That way they can claim they have 'reduced' wasteful Government spending (which they would have done) and, believe it or not, they may even get some traction with the electorate that SOMETHING was done to reduce the spending.

Going after NPR, Planned Parenthood, women's vaginas is a STUPID strategy, in my opinion. Let's see them do something substantial first. Right now, the GOPers/Tea Partyers have NO legislative achievements that they can claim credit for.

Navy and john, I have a wonderful daughter-in-law who grew up in the Soviet Union. If you want to talk with someone who lived under a communist regime and compare to two country's I'll ask her to speak with you. You can ask her for yourself what happens to the average citizen when a currency collapses. She's got a great story .

All well and good, but nothing says we're on the verge of a currency collapse. Our debt load was far higher as a proportion of GDP after WWII and we can still borrow at the best rates of any nation in the world.

Yeah, we have to deal with our debt, but we have options. At least we have options as llong as Conservatives stop deluding people that we can balance the budget by making cuts in a small portion of the budget while giving massive tax cuts to the wealthy elites. Conservatives aren't prepared to do that, though, are they?

Oh yeah. Didn't Hitler get involved in making the Volkswagen back in the 30s?

You're joking... right?

RVZ555

Japan is going thru the worst natural disaster in it's history and Feisty and Old Navy want to talk about Nazis? What kind of sickos are you? Really shows you what the left views as significant. (Does that sound familiar?)

• #2.12 - Tue Mar 15, 2011 9:18 AM CDT

Seriously, do you EVER think before you open your pie hole?

Your own words prove you to be a rambling idiot!

Good Lord!

Fesity:

Touche' - They are floundering again this morning.

Ironic how quickly they adopt exactly the same stance they decry, isn't it Feisty? Reminds me of the line from Animal House;

He can't treat our pledges that way! Only we can treat our pledges that way!

Bill,

Kind of sad that you find tough times for American manufacturing "delicious" . . . too many corporate fairy tales can alter one's reality . . .seek help.

(Ironically enough, when and if the Volt takes off, you will be right here giving all the credit to Donald Trump or some other "free market" fairy . . . in your world you are always "Winning!", right? )

RVZ555

Don't get mad when someone throws your own very ridiculousness, foolishness and moronic quotes right back at you. It makes you look, well, moronic. Look back through your last couple days of idiocy. You'll see what I mean. Now, go pour yourself another Gin And Tonic for breakfast.

What's truly moronic is comparing President Obama to Adolph Hitler because they both had something to do with the auto industry. The Volkswagon is NOT the reason Hitler is reviled in history. The Republican politician in Kansas who joked about shooting illegal immigrants from helicopters like feral pigs is the sort of person who does bear a close resemblance to the evil Hitler personified.

Nash:

Kind of sad that you find tough times for American manufacturing "delicious" . . . too many corporate fairy tales can alter one's reality . . .seek help.

Bills is typical of Republican extremists. He wants to see America fail if that means Obama fails.

BTW: Speaking of Limbaugh, did anyone catch Ed Schultz's video clips of Limbaugh and Beck cackling like idiots about the catastrophe in Japan?

BTW: Speaking of Limbaugh, did anyone catch Ed Schultz's video clips of Limbaugh and Beck cackling like idiots about the catastrophe in Japan?

I wish I hadn't!

There appears to be no depth of despicable to deep for those two PIGS!

I take comfort in believing there are two 'thrones' waiting for them in hell!

Kind of sad that you find tough times for American manufacturing "delicious"

I thought the same thing! Shouldn't we be supporting the American auto industry?

Speaking of which, does anyone else love the new Chrystal commercials? "We're the Motor City - and this is what we do!" Gives me chills!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SKL254Y_jtc

To all the profound leftist idiots here who deliberately misrepresent my posts, pointing out that the Volt is a decidedly unpopular (and tax subsidized) car has nothing to do manufacturing jobs, whether those jobs be fewer or greater than pre-Volt days. But it has everything to do with making the case that the Volt is a politically correct car that very few people want to buy – and a car that would never have been produced in the absence of massive government subsidies. Even the loons who believe in the fairy tale that the government creates jobs should be able to understand that.

P.S. What country leads the world in manufacturing output? Stay tuned for an insightful post that will reveal the answer.

Bill Fairfax VA:

But it has everything to do with making the case that the Volt is a politically correct car that very few people want to buy – and a car that would never have been produced in the absence of massive government subsidies.

"Politically correct," huh? Any more stupid buzz words in your vocabulary that you want to throw out today? The Volt was intended to get the conversion to electic cars started. It was never supposed to be a big money maker. The prices of electric cars should come down and the technology should improve with time just like with other new products. But GM is STILL making a profit, a fact that you and the other wingnuts can't stand.

Houston:

I saw that and these are the people that the right holds as their source of information and inspiration. Instead of proving their point they call somebody elses opinions moronic, etc which just proves our point all the more. They even attack posters on this board as if they were "Storm Troopers" and just do not see they are acting exactly the way they say they are not. They make Karl Rove happy and others long since dead.

Good grief, now I'm a storm trooper. And you wonder why no one on the right takes you seriously, Vet. But at least you didn't explicitly call me a Nazi, so I guess that's progress.

Oh, and as for the Volt jump starting the electric car biz, looks like some folks who own Volts might need a jump start themselves.

http://www.forbes.com/2011/03/16/chevy-volt-ayn-rand-opinions-patrick-michaels.html

See------- They act just like "Storm Troopers" thanks for playing. Whats the matter, the truth hurt, did you guys look at yourselves in the mirror today and not like what was starring back at you. I bet you did.

Diaper change on aisle right

Great post, Nashville Fan. If I may, I would add 2 sentiments to the President----thank you for putting up with the insults and crass behavior that is directed at you and sadly, your family and please continue to take time to recharge your batteries---a vacation, a game of basketball, a March Madness bracket (extra thanks for picking Pitt in the Final 4) and time with your family---we need you to be around for 6 more years!!

RVZ555:

You know what is funny about that comment? I still remember all the weeping and gnashing of teeth when President Obama DARED insinuate that companies should not be blowing all their cash in Vegas . . . OMG! How DARE he say something BAD about Vegas! (When of course, that was completely out of context and ridiculous.)

Same with the oil spill . . . don't point out the obvious problem of millions of gallons of oil beind dumped just offshore . . . just pump up tourism please . . . come to our beaches! Yay!

Now, when its convenient for you to score political points . . . leisure is bad!

Whatever.

As we used to say when I was growing up, "Save the drama for YOUR mama."

Seriously.

Nash:

Great posts. "Do as I say not as I do, more for me less for you". That is there little sing along lately. I think they chant it every morning before they post here.

Nashville: Thank you for your post.

Thanks for stopping by Steeler Fan, US Navy and Pat . . . I've been missing ya'll! :o)

Thanks very much, Nash.

Seriously?

God bless those who paint with broad brushes . . . may they not be judged as harshly as they judge others.

So sad.

Nash -

I was talking with a very close friend the other day about why so many people here in the U.S. just didn't seem to be grasping the significance of what was going on in Japan, much less showing any empathy for the people there. My friend said that she thought there was still a lot of post-WWII hatred lingering under the surface. I thought at the time she was maybe over-reacting because her two grown children are half Japanese and she is rightly protective of them. From the comment above, I see I was wrong and she was right.

So sad.

Right. They bombed us after we blockaded their ports and sent armed forces to fight with the Chinese. I think we also incepted diplomatic / economic sanctions against them for their invasion of China / Shanghai. Apparently this rankled the economic interests of some of FDR's buddies.

The Japanese were simply responding in kind. If you wanna' be the world's policeman,.....there is a price to pay.

Is that what you call a country that is negoiated a treaty with us all the time they are planning a sneak attack?

Nope. I didn't excuse it. I explained it though. Logic is hard for you righties to fathom.

Lesson: If you want to throw punches, you'd better be ready for the inevitable response.

On Dec 7th, 1941, the Japanese punched back, as did Muslims on Sept 11, 2001.

If you want to be the lead sled dog you'd better beready to get yer' heels nipped at.

The rocks come with the farm, dude.

Your truth, It turns out that Toyota didn't have an acceleration problem. I think there still waiting for an apology.

Frank:

Morning to ya and happy St Patty's day. I agree, every dollar helps and these people need all the help we can muster. The videos just rip your heart out. People just walking around dazed GOD can only imagine what is going on in their minds, the despair, the lost of hope and identity.

Send money and/or your prayers to these people, please. As Frank said, it will make you feel a whole lot better.

Frank:

Politics aside, you know what I love about you?

Your positive energy . . . it just shines through the computer and is in short suppy these days . . . so I just wanted to say thanks for proving weekly that there are lots of good folks out there who honestly want the best for our country, even if they differ on what would be best.

Here's hoping more folks like you will speak up so folks will be encouraged to participate in our government instead of just point out what is wrong with it all the time.

You inspire me to not give in to cynicism . . . so thanks.

Frank - gotta agree with Nash on her post.

Speaking of St Patricks day, I am on my way to watch two of my grand daughters do some Irish dancing.

Top of the Morning to you Grimey!

Nash wrote exactly what I was thinking!

Thanks Nash for the assist! *hugs*

@ Patrick - You're a lucky guy! Enjoy!

Thanks to YOU Feisty . . . you are a daily source of inspiration as well! :o)

you are a daily source of inspiration as well! :o)

Thanks Nash!

That's only because YOU were an awesome 'role model'! ;o)

Thanks guys!! I appreciate the comments. I try to think that most everyone wants what's best for this country...we just have different ideas on how to get there. The shame of it is that these days, people really magnify those differences and try to score political points on practically everything.

Quick story...my son was in my car with me and heard a commercial for the text donation of $10 to the Red Cross. When we got home, he went upstairs to his room, came down a few minutes later with 10 one-dollar bills in his hand from his allowance money. He asked me if I would send that text and handed me the money. He said he wanted to help because the kids over there probably lost their toys. I told him I would absolutely send the text for him, but I wouldn'take his money. This is an elementary schooler!! He definitely makes me proud!! :-)

Same to you Frank! Always refreshing reading your perspective on things. I sincerely appreciate hearing from you! I would just like to add my similar sentiments along with red, nash & Pietro.

He definitely makes me proud!! :-)

Thanks for sharing that story Grimey - you should be PROUD!

After all, he has YOU for a Daddy! ;o)

Hey Grimey--did you pick Pitt to win it all? The game will be on the big screen at the Dew Drop Inn today so I hope you'll stop by for combo March Madness/ St. Patrick's Day party!

You are right that it is a good feeling to be so blessed that you can help out others who are having a tough time right now.

Grimey -

Good for your son.....but what else could you expect when he has such a great role model to follow? And, oh, yeah.....what Nash said goes for me too!

Frank---what a wonderful son you are raising---tears are in my eyes as I read your post. I'm going to donate an extra $10 to the Red Cross in honor of your son.

I'm going to donate an extra $10 to the Red Cross in honor of your son

EXCELLENT idea SF!!!

Any more takers want to honor Grimey's son?

Frank - you should be proud of your son. Selflessness is something that we see lacking on the right side of the aisle, so your son has given me hope that things CAN change. Of course, your wife will say that is HER son and you had nothing to do with it...

Seriously, that is a GREAT story and I am glad you shared.

Frank:

Thanks for sharing the story about your son . . . very moving.

Feisty:

Count me in for a double matching donation to the Red Cross in honor of Frank's son and all the beautiful children around the world . . . they deserve so much better than we give them sometime.

Thanks again for the comments guys. I think one of the best lessons that we can teach our kids is that we should feel fortunate to have what we have. Not everyone can afford to have a nice house, cars, etc. And it's really a hard thing for them to understand...I have those things, doesn't everyone else? I'm working to make sure both of my kids understand how fortunate we are and that giving just a little bit can make a huge difference for someone who has been less fortunate. So far, it seems to be working. And Steeler fan...thank you!

Ok...a little lighter commentary: I'm going with a final 4 of Ohio State, Duke, Pitt, and Notre Dame. Ohio State over Pitt in the final.

Steeler Fan, Feisty and Nash -

Great idea! Grimey, tell your son he just earned another $20 from me too.

Come on, First Readers - this is one bandwagon we can all jump on!

Just did my donation in honor of Franks son.

Yes, Frank, I am the Wikipedia scholar today. I assume you have come on board to give us expert knowledge of the nuclear plant situation?

"Homer's Enemy" is the twenty-third episode of the eighth season of the American animated television series The Simpsons. It was first broadcast on the Fox network in the United States on May 4, 1997. The plot of the episode centers on the Springfield Nuclear Power Plant's hiring of a new employee named Frank Grimes. Despite Homer's attempts to befriend him, Grimes is angered by Homer's laziness and incompetence and his ability to lead a comfortable life despite these flaws. He eventually declares himself Homer's enemy.

Any.... :-) One of my all-time favorite episodes obviously.

Frank, I'm sure glad you showed up. Things were getting a little testy. Great story about your son you should be very proud.

Hi Frank,

You have a GREAT kid that you can be proud of.

I am in. I sent Franks story to my friends and they are all donating on his sons behalf. You have a great son Frank. I am sure you are proud of your mini me....:>)

Text REDCROSS to 90999 to Give $10

I am 'doubling down', as well!

http://american.redcross.org/site/PageNavigator/ntld_Redcross_text2help_faqs

Problem with GOP socialist programs Rick is that they only benefit the wealthy. Reverse Robin Hood, welfare for the Well-off, Corporate welfare,....whatever you want to call it.

Repub socialists suck!!

Yeah they seem to be stuck on stupid...gays guns and muslims...no jobs though

Greg--let's not forget criticizing the President for filling out a bracket and not invading Libya----anything to divert attention away from their lack of focus on jobs.

The Democrats would be smart to pull the reins of the debate back to: "Where are the jobs Mr. Boehner?"

Righty O! Funny how the run up to the Nov 2010 election, JOBS was all we heard about from the Teapublicans & MSM.

Since the shellacking - eh... NEVER mind! ;o)

Repealing HCR - Waging WAR on women's reproductive rights & shooting illegals from helicopters is all the 'vogue' these days!

What a bunch of suckers!

Greg:

Kudos, nice post. Keep posting.

Greg in Detroit

You hit the nail on the head. I think the folks who voted for the Republicans in the House were expecting them to help improve the economy. I don't see how cutting funds for Planned Parenthood does that, especially since that organization has helped so many young women (and men) avoid having children they are not in a position to support.

Actually, what people in the real world have noticed is that the democrats have only in the last few years jumped on the 'jobs jobs jobs' bandwagon, while at the same time continuing to attempt to steer the 'benefits and entitlements for everyone!' bandwagon, which unfortunately is sometimes headed in a different direction.

The GOP has not 'destroyed unions' - typical rhetoric from a person unwilling to deal with economic reality. It would be more accurate to say that in the states where unions have the strongest stranglehold, the unions are destroying the taxpayers.

Thanks guys. Will keep posting. Nice to hear from my heroes on this board that I have been reading for a few months now. Navy, Fiesty and Ron, etal....Know that your coments here do a great deal of damage to the GOP cause. If you were'nt effective,....then you wouldn't be their target.

My mother-in-law is a staunch repub. She is suffering from the worst case of buyer's remorse I have ever seen since she voted for our new Fuhrer:Rick Snyder. She now refers to Snyder as "He Who Shall Not Be Named".

Looks like both sides of Lake Michigan are going to be under dictatorial rule now. Gonna' be a looooong 4 years.

Know that your coments here do a great deal of damage to the GOP cause. If you were'nt effective,....then you wouldn't be their target

Good to see you this morning Greg!

A very wise woman once told me, it's better to have a bullseye on you back than a boot on your neck!

Ain't that right Nash? ;o)

I'm Honored Fiesty!!

And more of the same to ya'.

My response was for Greg in Detroit, Not the other guy

Greg in Detroit

A hearty welcome to you! We look forward to hearing MORE from you!

RVZ: All of the not-so-subtle overtures you mention are directed at one simple objective: they want to send us a message. The message is: GET OUT OF OUR COUNTRY!!! They are trying to drive home a point.

How many bases /military operations does Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Iran, Afghanistan, Quatar, Bahrain, UAE,....etc,....etc....have in OUR country? How many bases does Iraq have in Nebraska?

List them for me. I'll wait..........

Greg in Detroit:

I could not have said it better. The recent "McCarthy Style Hearings" was designed for one purpose and one purpose only. To divided this country by claiming that one religion - Muslims were all terrorists. They totally ignored the fact thatout of the 125 or so terrorist plots about 1/3 was linked to Muslims, the other 2/3 were not in fact many were so called white. And the GOP/TP took this path because about 1 in 4 people still believe the right wing rhetoric that President Obama is a Muslim, hence he is tied to terrorism and they are planning to use this card in 2012, you can bet on it. If this was a real National Security Hearing all 125 plots should have been examined, not just one religious group. By attacking this one group they were attempting to do something else and it had nothing to do with National Security.

Thank you for the big smile Greg. Welcome to the "pit"!

Greg in Detroit:

You posts are great and well written and true. Welcome to the pit, I look forward to your writings.

I see RVZ is desperately trying to say that I claimed "America deserved the attack on Pearl Harbor".

I didn't. I explained the attack to the politically impaired,...like RVZ.

RVZ's sophmoric attempts at sidetracking the real issue under discussion is textbook GOP obfuscation when you know your views have no merit. Nice try, but no soup for you, RVZ.

I went into a Japanese grocery store Sunday after church to look for a donation jar for the tsunami/quake victims. The proprietors were visibly moved by my wanting to donatesomething. They bowed low, and long. A gesture of respect. My 9-year-old son and I intend to donate to the Red Cross as Fiesty and Navy have proposed.

Thanks Chris and Navy,

Coming from you guys that is high praise indeed. I'd fight alongside you boys (and Fiesty girls, Amy, Joanne) any day. Remember me at the Dew Drop Inn tomorrow. Hoist one for the people of Japan. They need some kharmic good wishes right now. Prayers as well as dollars.

I am guessing Mika is trolling for a new pair of Manolo Blahniks to go with her Christian Louboutins:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/10/19/donny-deutsch-apologizes_n_325650.html

I hope he has the class to leave the price tag on them,...

Glad I am not the only one to see the obvious. I feel bad watching; but they often get some of the most interesting guests and I like the conversational format much better than the evening 'yell at you' line up - except when Keith did it,...somehow that was better.

By the way, did you catch Joe S's inane comment about the nuclear reactors being ABOVE ground so they could get to them? Can you imagine the 'friability' and air quality of THAT?

Heard a guy on NPR the other day. He mentioned that if the Pharaohs had had nukes we would still be looking for a place to store their nuke waste.

Also he said that the Yucca Flats nuke facility has to store stuff for 100,000 years. He said it even comes down to what kind of signage will we be reading in 100,000 years? What language or group of symbols will spell out DANGER:RADIOACTIVE?

Here's a thought. Let's store it at RVZ house.

Wow Greg.....I can't remember a new poster coming here and hitting as many home runs as you are. Fantastic comments! Please keep'em coming!

I'd say Greg is a natural, wouldn't you Chris?

Love the line: Progressive & Agressive!

Greg, an attack from the likes of RVZ is higher praise than I could ever give...welcome to FR.

Well, Greg from Detroit, I see that you have a fan in RVZ555 and he is attacking like no one's business.

Well, no one cares about RVZ555's post, either.

Welcome to the pit, Greg... and to FR.