The GOP/TP pulled the biggest bait and switch on this country in history. They baited the America people with such rhetoric as they would listen to America, they would create jobs in this country and they would fight to better the economy. Once elected what did they give us?

22 States that want to disenfranchise millions and millions of US Citizens from voting. Many who have voted are their lives. Why, because the GOP/TP has determined they typically vote democrat.

Attacks on the rights of their citizens everything from women’s reproductive rights to the right of Gay people wanting to put their lives on the line in defense of their country.

“McCarthy Style” hearings to try and pit one religious group of Americans against the others. This is religious intolerance of the right and the very reason many of our founding fathers came to this country to begin with. Religious Freedom.

A political system that has been totally corrupted by undocumented money from Special Interest Groups who buy political votes to further their agenda, not the agenda of Americans

They have turned a deaf ear to Americans unless you are Wall Street, Big Business or Millionaires/Billionaires

Union Busting because the right sees any collection of people that have an ideology different than their as a threat to their quest to totally control this country.

They have not done one thing to create a single job in this country, they have not done one thing to help an improving economy to continue and they have contentiously pushed legislation that the majority of Americans do not want, PERIOD.

People, you have been hood winked by the GOP/TP with their “bait and switch”.

What if you threw a party and none of your best buds showed up??

Nancy Pelosi was so proud or herself when she passed Barry’s ClunkerCare HCR law that she said “We have to pass this bill so that we can find out what’s in it”. Looks like the House Dem leadership now know what’s in it, and they don’t want to get any of the stinking smell of the stench of failure on them. Only the esteemed lefty liberal from SF is willing to stand up and celebrate ClunkerCare. Which only serves to demonstrate just how clueless she is. Realclearpolitics.com, tracking an average of six recent polls, shows Americans favor repeal of ClunkerCare by an 11.0% margin.

From Politico:

Who's missing Pelosi's ACA party?
By: David Nather
March 17, 2011 05:08 PM EDT

House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi’s not hiding under her desk— she held another press conference Thursday morning to celebrate the one-year anniversary of the health care law next week.

The only thing missing was the rest of the heavy hitters.

When the Democrats were pushing health care reform through Congress, Pelosi was always surrounded by a cast of all-stars at the big press conferences. The rest of the leadership was there, as were Rep. John Dingell of Michigan — who had gaveled the passage of Medicare in 1965 — and Henry Waxman of California, who steered the Affordable Care Act through the Energy and Commerce Committee past roadblocks from centrist Democrats.

Thursday, Minority Whip Steny Hoyer was nowhere to be found. Neither was Jim Clyburn of South Carolina, the third-ranking Democrat among House leadership. There was no Waxman. And Dingell, who sat smiling beside President Barack Obama at the signing ceremony one year ago, was gone too.

Bad News For The Despots

TRIPOLI: Libyan strongman Muammar Gaddafi said his forces will soon launch an assault on rebel stronghold Benghazi, saying "traitors" would be showed no mercy but those who laid down their arms would be spared. Meanwhile, he said "those who surrender and throw down their arms will be saved."

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/middle-east/Gaddafi-vows-no-mercy-in-attack-on-Benghazi/articleshow/7733614.cms

Will the no fly zone silence Gaddafi. I seem to remember the last Gaddafi got bombed by us we didn’t heat anymore fom Gaddafi.

War is ugly.

To all who did not like the green ties yesterday; the closet r----its who claim it was a disgrace to take a trip to Ireland. May I suggest instead of hating on our President visiting Ireland, his brackets, the budget, Libya’s handling , Japan, or the President period. Let me suggest this. Instead of hating on him in these troubled times, pray for our President if you pray. If you don’t believe in prayer, think positive vibrations and say some positive things. I have an Irish connection too. Yesterday was my brother’s birthday. In grammar school before mass would begin, the nuns would call him up front and fawn all over him. Ohhh, St. Patrick the patron saint they endowed on him. I hated it; or maybe I was jealous. So if you still want to be the way you were/are; I’ll understand. On the other hand, I got to enjoy cake with green icing and Kool-Aid my mother made for desert and to celebrate my brother’s birthday at dinner. So I hope yesterday you all got to enjoy your St Patrick’s Day fest ivies; green Guinness ; if you got some.

Seriously, for the first time oh, say can you see the weight of the job in our President’s face in this global crisis? No matter who would have occupied the White House, just cleaning up after GW Bush would have been a gigantic task. If you really love your country, you’ll cast aside your ill thoughts and hope the best for our country. Right now it seems with the clean up needed after GW Bush, the world doesn’t seem to get no better. But we can change. That’s because we are Americans. The last syllables of AmerI-Can is “I can”. And we can cause that’s who we are; and that’s what we do. We should WANT him to succeed as much as possible because it will our support for his leadership; no matter how weak you think it is right now.

In a challenge to Republican leaders, Dane County District Attorney Ismael Ozanne has asked a judge to void Gov. Scott Walker's measure to limit collective bargaining for public employees, saying lawmakers violated the state's open meetings law when they pushed the legislation through last week.

http://host.madison.com/wsj/news/local/govt-and-politics/article_19b9492e-500b-11e0-911b-001cc4c03286.html

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

Hopefully Gov Walker, another despot or should I say Koch sucker, is realizing he is on his way out.

Update: Libya declares immediate cease-fire

Speaking to reporters in Tripoli, he says Libya will "try to deal positively" to the resolution, which calls for a no-fly zone and "all necessary measures" to protect civilians in the conflict.

"Libya takes great interest in protecting civilians," he says.

http://content.usatoday.com/communities/ondeadline/post/2011/03/libya-calls-for-immediate-cease-fire-after-un-resolution/1

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

I guess I was right. Gaddafi remembers what it was like the last time his tent got bombed.

Shout to frag-2227198

Thank you, You were so right

First Thoughts: ***BREAKING: Libya’s Foreign Minister told reporters Libya has declared a cease-fire to abide by the U.N. resolution.

__________

Really? Wow.

Yesterday the UN passed Military Intervention into Lybia by a 10 -0 vote. Here we go again. I hope that we do not get involved into another war. We as a Nation cannot afford it. It has been reported this morning that Khaddafy has agreed to a cease fire for now. This is good if it is true. At least for now the slaughter will stop and negotiations can begin. Is this not what our President wanted????

A little early to be drinking, isn't it Louis. Or maybe you are still celebrating St. Patrick's Day??

Bev,Pat I guess we are on the same page again. This looks like the exact outcome that President Obama wanted. We should be happy that President Obama kept his cool and did not listen the 'Bomb Them" crowd. It kinda looks like leadership to me.

When the Great Ronnie Raygun was President back in the 80'z, Did he ever get involved in Lebanon's Civil War?

The answer is "Hell No"!

But he did turn Tail & Run from the litlle known group called Hezzbollah!

Where is Hezzbolah today?

Louis, Navy, Beverly, excellent--way to end the week! Once again the media and the chattering class have egg on their faces. They've been complaining President Obama wasn't doing enough while he was quietly doing what needed doing off camera.

LouisJ

For it seems we do not represent a United States… just America. But I thank God liberty is not a person; for too many people have tried to be more than what they are by judging people with the wrong intentions.

Live with the fact that the Universe still expands and contracts in whichever way it will, the pale blue dot remains part of it still.

I could not think of a more appropriate way to remind US of who were are.

Thank you.

You're welcome Beverly.

Joe and TA, I realize that you would have to actually think to understand what was in the message, so instead you reply with the usual Republican retort of dragging the knuckles.

:^/

Bait & Switch is too subdued for what is the Teapublicans ultimate objectives for America Navy!

Read more from the bat sh!t crazy party:

Georgia State Rep. Bobby Franklin—who last year proposed making rape and domestic violence "victims" into "accusers"—has introduced a 10-page bill that would criminalize miscarriages and make abortion in Georgia completely illegal. Both miscarriages and abortions would be potentially punishable by death: any "prenatal murder" in the words of the bill, including "human involvement" in a miscarriage, would be a felony and carry a penalty of life in prison or death. Basically, it's everything an "pro-life" activist could want aside from making all women who've had abortions wear big red "A"s on their chests.

http://motherjones.com/blue-marble/2011/02/miscarriage-death-penalty-georgia

Then there's this:

Republican Vern Peck, member of the Kansas House of Representatives, shocked colleagues and others Monday when he suggestd on the House floor that Illegal Immigrants should be shot like feral pigs. During a meeting of the Kansas House Appropriations Committee Rep.

Vern (Virgil) Peck said "if shooting these immigrating feral hogs works, maybe we have found a solution to our illegal Immigration problem." At the time of the unfortunate remark the committee was debating whether to...

http://politifi.com/news/Kansas-Rep-Vern-Peck-suggests-shooting-illegal-immigrants-like-pigs-1755737.html

Abraham Lincoln has GOT to be rolling over in his grave!

Joe,

Yep, Pelosi popped up again. In addition to your comments, she actually took to the floor in Wednesday and stated that:

"Democrats have long for fought for fiscal responsibility as a top priority."

Which brings the question:

Did someone forget to lock up the keys to the Stargate? (Whar star system has she been visiting?)

Well, one year later, and the Kaiser Foundation, which has polls that are never in synch with any other poll, found that the HCR is less popular than a year ago.

They find the 8 point differential between those who approve and those who disapprove a "split".

Uh huh.

Obama finally got pressured into making a statement on Japan. I would imagine he is plenty peeved about it, too, considering all he has on his plate: two fundraisers in three days, the party last night, packing for the next junket, and, oh yeah, those campaign stops that we are paying for because he deems them "not campaign stops". I actually think he should be campaigning more often- last fall he was front and center all over the country- and his approval ratings plummeted.

And, in a little piece of "coincidence?"- last year, with major hoopla, the Bangs Street School in Asbury Park, New Jersey, was renamed the "Barack Obama School". Today it was announced that the school will close in the fall due to declining enrollment.

Lo, how the mighty are fallen.

True American and Joe in Albany- I think you should go back and read Louis' post again-

Then check out all his other posts.

Notice anything? Like the fact that there are a lot of words, but no real meaning? That they ramble, and sort of allow you to read into them what you will? That they end with a firm tag line no one disagrees with?

Now you know how Obama starts his day.

Eight of First Read's ten Senate seats most likely to change hands in 2012 involve the loss of a Democratic seat; one of the two remaining Senate seats is Scott Brown's Massachusetts seat, and, as First Read points out, Senator Brown is at present the most popular politician in his home state.

The Democratic majority in the Senate is currently 53-47.

Feisty:

I stand corrected. Great post. This party (GOP/TP) has some really serious problems with their new found ideology. We are heading backwards to the days of the feudal lords. Jousting in the streets instead of a good game of stick ball. There is not a word in the dictionary to describe these people.

Pat, Boston, MA and US Navy Disabled Veteran - Retired,

We always connect. Evidently, we are doing something right.

I'm glad Gaddafi called a cease fire.

Although he claims it's for innocent lives, it some how doesn't seems right. Like I said earlier Gaddafi remembers what it was like the last time his tent got bombed. He is a coward in my book.

And of course, I'm happy the Wheels of Justice are turning for Gov Snot Walker. He is a falling star the GOP/T-Baggers cannot catch. The T-baggers are fading away.

Hurry up March 25th.

There is not a word in the dictionary to describe these people.

Actually, there is, however, it won't make it past the Newsvine censors! ;o))

Joe in Albany:

Nancy Pelosi was so proud or herself when she passed Barry’s ClunkerCare HCR law that she said “We have to pass this bill so that we can find out what’s in it”.

Are you deliberately lying or just gullible? That is NOT what Pelosi said. What she really said was: "We have to pass the bill so YOU can find out what's in it, away from the fog of controversy."

The "you"in the sentence referred to the public, not to herself or to Congress. She believed that the lies being told about health care reform would be debunked after it was passed and became law and people would see for themselves what it actually accomplished.

Unfortunately, she was wrong, partly because the law is being implemented too gradually for people to notice its positive benefits and partly because the "pants-on-fire" award-winning lies keep spewing forth from the mouths of Republican politicians and their propaganda TV network.

Jody, Iowa

Louis, Navy, Beverly, excellent--way to end the week! Once again the media and the chattering class have egg on their faces. They've been complaining President Obama wasn't doing enough while he was quietly doing what needed doing off camera.

Thank you Jody

They are talking out the side of their mouths.

There is not a word in the dictionary to describe these people.

How about 2 word definitions? I'd suggest "authoritarian crackpots" or "tinhorn dictators."

Joe in Albany

A little early to be drinking, isn't it Louis. Or maybe you are still celebrating St. Patrick's Day??

• 4

• !

#1.6 - Fri Mar 18, 2011 9:36 AM EDT

True American-2367375

Wow Louis....that has got to be some of the worst drival I've ever heard......one too many last night?....get over yourself!

Do you jerks approve of ANYTHING? What a pair of losers.

We will NEVER know how many innocent rebels in Lybia were killed!

Too little, too late!

Exhausted after fundraising parties...Motown party....Black Hawk basketball event...ESPN video for NCAA picks (REAL important) ..golf for the past 2 weekends.......Gotta pack for "Rio".

Adios Amigos!

"Notice anything? Like the fact that there are a lot of words, but no real meaning?

Do you R E A L L Y want to go there, NoJOo Do YOU, of all people??

Bev,

Seriously, for the first time oh, say can you see the weight of the job in our President’s face in this global crisis?

You got to be kidding. Libya, the little punk Gadhafi. The French and Brits having to get the car, pull up in the front and have been honking for 2 weeks for Obama to get in the car. THE FRENCH have more guts and principle. What is so hard? A weak pathetic dictator, renowned terrorist that has killed hundreds of Americans, a mad man (He would have probably caved if Obama had offered a knock-off Micheal Jackson costume.)

Heck - Even China and Russia could care less about this guy. So Obama comes running as the French and Brits take off and Obama dives through the window into the back seat. Libya folds. Whoo -hoo. That was tough, really ugly, huh. Played it perfectly. (Sorry about losing Hillary, btw.)

Instead of hating on him in these troubled times, pray for our President if you pray.

Obama is so far, so far out of his depth. He almost needs someone to hand him a bracket - Friday or Saturday - to decide what day it is.

Nope. Pray for America.

And that is not a joke, or partisan rhetoric. Dead serious.

Gadhafi declares cease-fire a day after saying he will slaughter his own people....

this is all because UN/US threatened to use of force on his regime if he dared.

now, don't you all like how this seems to be ending....you can say what you want about Obama's stands... but he's doing what needs to be done... and he does not need your approval to spend "zero" to win the battle - whether it be Egypt or Libya.

And some of you that actually think all the president is doing is sitting around, twiddling is thumb while all this crisis is going on... you are the DUMBEST crowd that can crawl the planet. He is getting daily briefings and we all probably know there are tons of arguments in the oval office on how to proceed...as the president decided, choosing to wait it out was an option i.e. until the crazy Gadhafi proclaims that he'll slaughter his own people. Also, do you know why China and Russia decided not to vote? I bet you it had to do with negotiations taken place behind closed doors with either Hilary or Obama.

As long as the president has our best interest at heart, he can keep doing what he is doing behind closed doors - where some matters need to be... and let the nay-sayers eat cow dung.

At least the UN now has a little more credibility....the way it should be... the US can no longer be the world police.

We are in the process of cutting three thousand jobs at Joint Forces in the name of saving money - thirty people received a pink slip just today (Link). Funny how these people want a smaller government (Operation Starve the Beast), yet expect our government to be big enough to go off ot other countries under the heading of Operation Babysit.

Republicans whine about spending money and our dept, now here they come with a hand out wanted to spend money and add to our dept...

bob-1805084,

Thank God, we got rid of that cowboy mentality in a sitting US president. No more waging wars unilaterally because we feel like it - "American Exceptionalism" - no rules apply to us. When did the US and some of its citizenry become so angry and feel like they can dictate what goes one in order countries w/o any accountability? See the cowboy sent 4400 US soldiers to die in Iraq as well as over 100,000 Iraqi civilians... I've yet to see one republican be enraged that over 100,000 Iraqis died as a result of Bush's war of choice - THAT NUMBER IS STAGGERING, and we act like it's nothing.... very little mention of it in the news - be it left or right stream media.

I'm glad Obama is not jumping on Sarkozy band-wagon...we aint jumping because other countries are saying it's time to jump. And I'm glad we waited; it's Libya's civil war - not the US's. I'm a bleeding heart Liberal as some of you on the right call it... but I can't seem to shake that image of the Lockerbie bomber being celebrated when arriving in Libya...once Gadafi is gone, who will represent the country? Libya is not Egypt and there's a lot more to situations in the middle east that you are previed to. So stop listening to talking heads when it comes to Foreign Policy... they know squart because they are not in the oval office - listening to intense conversations about keep US's best interest at just that - US's best interest.

Tunde, great great thoughts. I'm 100% in agreement with what you said. This cowboy crap has to stop.

Also, all of a sudden, the missing NYT journalist that has been missing for a while now was found - in custody of Libya... and he is planned to be released today.

I guess Gadhafi must have had a change of heart because that weakling Obama must be too weak a foe to even waste his time on = dry sarcasm, I know, i know.... I'm not a comedian.

Now maybe some trying to dictate what the president needs to be doing or not be doing will just SHUT THE F UP ALREADY, and admit that they don't know what's going on underneath their noses, let alone with WH foreign policy discussions.

Beverly in Chicago

Pat, Boston, MA and US Navy Disabled Veteran - Retired,

We always connect. Evidently, we are doing something right.

_______________________________________

Will you three please take it to a motel room.

Joe in Albany

What if you threw a party and none of your best buds showed up??

That is what is happening every time T-baggers have tried to counter protest the union busting rallies here lately.

Local blogger Adam Shriver pointed out that the Post recently devoted 600 words to a right-wing Tea Party rally that drew 500 people, while ignoring a labor rally that drew 4,500.

http://www.stlamerican.com/news/local_news/article_3223e6ec-5022-11e0-a689-001cc4c002e0.html

Nancy Pelosi was so proud or herself when she passed Barry's ClunkerCare HCR law that she said "We have to pass this bill so that we can find out what's in it".

Likewise, when Gov Snot Walker violated the state's open meetings law which they pushed legislation through last week. Gov Snot Walker's Koch Addicts met without providing the required 24 hours' notice, and that notice of the meeting did not give the public enough information about what would be discussed.

http://host.madison.com/wsj/news/local/govt-and-politics/article_19b9492e-500b-11e0-911b-001cc4c03286.html

Did you read what Houston! posted? The "you"in the sentence referred to the public, not to herself or to Congress. She believed that the lies being told about health care reform would be debunked after it was passed and became law and people would see for themselves what it actually accomplished.

post #1.23 - Fri Mar 18, 2011 10:07 AM EDT

From Politico:

You do know Politico leans right mostly? But you love it; right?

TA: Gadhafi declares cease-fire a day after saying he will slaughter his own people.... this is all because UN/US threatened to use of force on his regime if he dared

Delusional as always. Remember that map of Libya a few weeks ago? It showed Qaddafi's forces controlling a sliver of land in the west. Now look at it. It shows Qaddafi in control of all of Libya except for a small portion in the east.

The war is over, and Qaddafi won. The "cease fire" called by Qaddafi means the civil war is over and now the remaining "clean up" will be a police action.

The West had a chance to topple a ruthless dictator. It blew it's opportunity. Don't think the Arab world, full of dictators, didn't take note of the weakness of the West.

Without Western "boots on the ground", Qaddafi will remain in power. Now watch the other uprisings like in Saudi Arabia and Bahrain. They won't get far.

And how is Egypt doing these days?

Bev:

You do know MSNBC leans left mostly? But you love it; right?

'nuff said.

JoAnnaSmith1,

The West had a chance to topple a ruthless dictator. It blew it's opportunity. Don't think the Arab world, full of dictators, didn't take note of the weakness of the West.

Without Western "boots on the ground", Qaddafi will remain in power. Now watch the other uprisings like in Saudi Arabia and Bahrain. They won't get far.

And how is Egypt doing these days?

Joanna, There you go with that cowboy mentality again... r u sure you are not a cowgirl... it seems that you are saying that we need a war with Libya because we wanna show that world we have big balls and can topple the spineless Gadhafi.. we all know that we can destroy Libya with a flick of Obama's thumb... but then again, will Libya become another US money pit with forces there indefinitely?

I remember you screaming about deficits just a couple of days ago; so now you don't care about that? Joanna, you are confusing me... I don't know what you want anymore, btw is this the real Joanna or we have yet another invasion of the body snatchers? Will the real joanna please stand up. Deficits or no deficits? My head is spinning, I'm confused.

True American-2367375

btw......how many Libyan rebels do you think are dead in the streets as of today? Now, we've become a nation that doesn't act in the best interests of the people fighting for their lives, we've become the country that can't do anything about it until the UN says so.......WOW.

And your response would have been running in there guns blazing with disregard of the UN? I don't think you realize that we are in a recession slashing budgets from education, infrastructure and continue to give tax cuts. Our military is stretched thin from 2 wars and helping Japan. So.......... dedicate more military resources to Libya? You think we can afford 3 stimulus wars in a recession?

The US don't want to do anything unless the UN gets involved. Remember Iraq? Remember when we couldn't be patient and rather go in there guns blazing? Billions wasted and what have it accomplished? Nothing.

The only reason why the UN even considered the no fly zone only because of oil. Plain and simple. Because of Libya, gas prices jumped 40 cents in a few weeks. IF they had no oil, I bet UN would not have given sh*t about it. Thats reality.

So all you liberals get your shoes on and LETS DO THE LIBERAL CHA CHA! Kraft lets give them some dancing mantras. Feisty and Bev this may allow you to meet federal guidelines for reducing your BMI.

Koch Koch Koch Koch Rove Rove Rove Rove Rove Cha cha Cha! Koch Koch Koch Koch Rove Rove Rove Rove Rove Cha cha Cha! Koch Koch Koch Koch Rove Rove Rove Rove Rove UM poppa mau mau Um Poppa Mau Mau! Rama Lama Ding Dong Koch Koch Koch Koch Rove Rove Rove Rove Rove Cha cha Cha! Bushyty bush bush bush! Aye carumba cha cha cha! Thatsssssssss All Folks!

You do know MSNBC leans left mostly?

Makes you wonder about the GIANT - 'Repeal Obama Care' ad that keeps flashing around here, doesn't it?

Tunde,

Gadhafi declares cease-fire a day after saying he will slaughter his own people....

this is all because UN/US threatened to use of force on his regime if he dared

Memo to Tunde: He has been slaughtering his own people for weeks.

He ordered two fighters to straf and bomb civilians. They took off and never came back - landed in another country. HIS OWN MILITARY DID NOT BACK HIM. Paid mercenaries, except these guys were the equivalent to taking a truck down to the labor pool, hiring a bunch of day laborers and handing out AK-47 instead of weed eaters. Sheez. He would have folded as fast as the tent that Reagan dropped a 500 pounder on.

Your right about us not knowing what is in the briefings. But you don't need a PDB (Presidential Daily Briefing) to figure this one out, anymore than you need a PDBB (Presidential Daily Basketball Briefing) to know that UNC Asheville ain't gonna beat Kansas.

I bet you it had to do with negotiations taken place behind closed doors with either Hilary or Obama.

Clinton insiders have said Obama's handling of this is like amateur hour. She stated 4 times the last day or so that she is done with Obama. Won't be back in the next term. Obama is making jokes about Hillary, how it has been hard to sleep at night with her throwing rocks at windows.

Sheez.... You guys really need to start trying to keep up.

True American-2367375,

Tunde...I seem to remember a different tone when Obama was telling Mubaruk to GET OUT NOW. I guess that was ok because there was no serious danger of us having to send troops there and Mubaruk wasn't slaughtering people.So, we should pick and choose who deserves freedom and who we tell to GET OUT NOW based on what? .....you're just another HYPOCRITE.

Joe...now you know they LEAN FORWARD and fall over themselves to the LEFT........lol!

mmmmm...where to begin... we all know that Mubarak and Gadhafi are dictators that do not like democracy... while I think it's OK for our president to implore a dictator about not killing his own people...what you seem not to understand is that US has always been a beacon of hope and light to other nations... when citizens of other nations are being killed - the citizens of US expect their president to comment about it; now all he can say is that he doesn't like the situation and expects the dictator to resign. He can't simply wage a unilateral war against that nation because he feels like it.

The best he can do is go to the UN - at least then it seems fair, in the eyes of the world - and we are not the only ones forking the bill. It also ensures that it does not look like a personal vendetta against Libya.

I see that you proclaim yourself to be a true american... if you must know... I wasn't born an American... but I came here seeking a better life and loved a lot I saw in America - A very power nation, yet with a gentle temper-ment; same things I see in our current president... and while most previous presidents also adhered to this personality.... GWB was the only president that seemed to wildly stray from these noble ideals about USA.

You call me a hypocrite, but can seem to prove it or argue your point/position properly. Common sense it truly not common and that lil thing called logic doesn't quite work well for some.

Tunde...

"... if you must know... I wasn't born an American"

that explains it all

sad sad sad statement...you'll be alright though.

bob-1805084

Bev,

Seriously, for the first time oh, say can you see the weight of the job in our President’s face in this global crisis?

You got to be kidding. Libya, the little punk Gadhafi. The French and Brits having to get the car, pull up in the front and have been honking for 2 weeks for Obama to get in the car. THE FRENCH have more guts and principle.

In the "scramble to carve up Africa" it was Europeans who colonized Libya; not America. It's just so right the Big Daddy would move first. Besides, why should we spent our resources there?

Did you check out your FOX NOISE polls? Even those lunatics couldn't have their way. 2/3 of the people they polled did not want a war. You and FOX NOISE can keep spinning. It's just not working for you.

Our President does it by the rules and understands occupation would be another ugly face for America. President Obama also, unlike Georgie boy cares and realizes, I think, a third war could possibly be a WW111.

bob-1805084

Tunde,

Memo to Tunde: He has been slaughtering his own people for weeks.

He ordered two fighters to straf and bomb civilians. They took off and never came back - landed in another country. HIS OWN MILITARY DID NOT BACK HIM. Paid mercenaries, except these guys were the equivalent to taking a truck down to the labor pool, hiring a bunch of day laborers and handing out AK-47 instead of weed eaters. Sheez. He would have folded as fast as the tent that Reagan dropped a 500 pounder on.

I can play this game too...

MEMO to Bob... there's been a pseudo-civil war in Libya for weeks (rebels killing pro-government militias and vice versa - how do you think the rebels took over so much of the country - I guarantee you it's not by sprinkling star dust).... and we can not be sucked into it.

Until we could get a UN resolution and also Gadhafi claiming load and clearly to the world, that he will kill his people at Benghazi...and that there would be no mercy - WE DO NOT; and I mean WE DO NOT HAVE A RIGHT to unilaterally start bombing Libya.

There's that lil thing you guys are just skipping over today, DEFICITS anybody? Comon my republican friends, defend me here; we can not spend our grand children's money on Libya. What has Libya done for me lately?

True American,

About your lean forward comment:

Liberals are like slinkies ....... they are not good for anything, but they do bring a smile to your face when you lean them forward at the top of a stairs.

Tunde,

About Bush / Iraq and other points you brought up, I think I am going to post on that this afternoon/weekend. I would appreciate you looking at it and giving you comments.

If I don't see you again - have a good weekend.

Ah screw it.

Chinese creditcards? Check!

Tax cuts for all? Check!

Shuffle war bills from Iraq and Afghanistan around so grandkids will find them hidden under the couch when they get older? Check!

Slash budgets all across the board including education to free up money? Check!

LETS GO TO WAR! WOOHOO!!

US NAVY......

"They have not done one thing to create a single job in this country, they have not done one thing to help an improving economy to continue and they have contentiously pushed legislation that the majority of Americans do not want, PERIOD"

Hello Navy - great post, in entirety, as usual you've nailed it. May I add one phrase?

"and they never have"

They have no history to show us where they've done anything to improve conditions for the middle class.

I guess I have to criticize the (D)'s for doing a really poor job of talking about this last Nov. The brave souls in Wisconsin are an excellent example for us to follow.

We must loud. We must be clear. We must be vigilant and our local legislators must do the same.

And, hey, enjoy that "supermoon" tomorrow night - it will be stunning!

Pat, Boston, MA

Tunde, great great thoughts. I'm 100% in agreement with what you said. This cowboy crap has to stop.

Thanks Pat, we've got to get rid of that "shoot first, ask questions later" mentality. We all can't be singing "Bomb, bomb, bomb.... bomb, bomb, Iran" and tap dancing to our donors behind closed doors because we want their money.

I'm thilled that France and Britain are taking the lead in planning the Libya action.

I was reminded today of how Bill Clinton was able to remove Slobodan Milosevic from power in Serbia without putting the U.S. into deficit spending or losing American lives. Looks like Presidentr Obama is taking a lesson from the Clinton administration. Thank God.

bob-1805084

Tunde,

About Bush / Iraq and other points you brought up, I think I am going to post on that this afternoon/weekend. I would appreciate you looking at it and giving you comments.

If I don't see you again - have a good weekend.

I'll check again this afternoon too... have a good weekend also.

jollyoldsoul1

So all you liberals get your shoes on and LETS DO THE LIBERAL CHA CHA! Kraft lets give them some dancing mantras. Feisty and Bev this may allow you to meet federal guidelines for reducing your BMI.

Koch Koch Koch Koch Rove Rove Rove Rove Rove Cha cha Cha! Koch Koch Koch Koch Rove Rove Rove Rove Rove Cha cha Cha! Koch Koch Koch Koch Rove Rove Rove Rove Rove UM poppa mau mau Um Poppa Mau Mau! Rama Lama Ding Dong Koch Koch Koch Koch Rove Rove Rove Rove Rove Cha cha Cha! Bushyty bush bush bush! Aye carumba cha cha cha! Thatsssssssss All Folks!

How does that song go again, Jolly old soul? if you can, please post a youtube link of yourself singing and dancing to that song - with a yellow/green/red sombrero hat on... I bet it would be cute and garner a lot of hits. You might become famous... ya jess neva know until u do it.

The West had a chance to topple a ruthless dictator. It blew it's opportunity. Don't think the Arab world, full of dictators, didn't take note of the weakness of the West.

Without Western "boots on the ground", Qaddafi will remain in power. Now watch the other uprisings like in Saudi Arabia and Bahrain. They won't get far.

And how is Egypt doing these days?

Ah, you have got to LOVE JAS1 and her thought 'process'. Note how she phrases this situation, and I quote: "The West had a chance to topple a ruthless dictator. It blew it's opportunity."

Wow. The West (mainly the US) is in the business of 'toppling ruthless dictators'. If my memory serves me correctly, didn't we already try that in Iraq? you know, the 'ruthless dictator' Saddam Hussein, which in fact was the COUNTERBALANCE to Iran, keeping that country in check with his own?

THAT 'ruthless dictator'?

Now that we have 'toppled the ruthless dictator' in Iraq, we have an increasing problem with Iran. It was this short-sightedness by President Bush that has caused much consternation in the world today. And JAS1 is the poster child for short-sightedness.

Now she wants US to 'topple a ruthless dictator' in Lybia.

And replace that 'ruthless dictator' with WHAT??

Who is going to 'keep the peace' while we get another 'dictator' to rule Lybia? Does this mean that JAS1 is going to don a military uniform and do it herself?

You can bet that she will not. JAS1 will be sitting back here cheering on those 'brave soldiers' who are going to get killed. And for what purpose? To advance ideaology.

That is a STUPID reason to send people to die.

I posted this before, and I'll post it again - American Armed forced are for OUR - AMERICA's - protection. It is NOT to be used to 'topple dictators' or to advance some twisted sence of bravado or ideaology. President Bush was IRRESPONSIBLE to use the US Military like he did. 4400 of US - our own - were SACRIFICED on the altar of ideaology, and hundreds of thousands have been injured and maimed because if that IRRESPONSIBLE action.

And JAS1 - and all others who think like her - are just as irresponsible for wanting to use the US Military to 'topple a dictator' in Lybia.

Learn to MIND YOUR OWN BUSINESS and STAY OUT of conflicts where we do not belong. We have enough problems here in America to deal with without looking for more mischief to get into.

Consider yourself called out, JAS1.

Bev,

, why should we spent our resources there?

Who pays 40% off the top to the UN? The UN have an super carriers with a wing of FA-18s? They have any destroyers with cruise missiles?

Besides, aren't you the one that was using Gadhafi as a reference for Obama 2 weeks ago. That is still hilarious.

Tunde,

Until we could get a UN resolution and ............. - WE DO NOT; and I mean WE DO NOT HAVE A RIGHT to unilaterally start bombing Libya.

So Clinton didn't have the right to stop the genocide and ethnic cleansing in the Balkans, huh?

Wisconsin Judge blocks Walker’s Collective Bargaining Law. Let the Recalls Begin!!

Pietro,

"Bush sacrificed 4,400 on the altar of ideology."

Do not insult the intelligence, the values and beliefs of those that have served and sacrificied.

Call out? You will be this weekend. Be sure and tune in.

Bob (numbers) - Bring it.

I stand by what I said. President Bush SACRIFICED 4,400 on the altar of ideaology.

Deal with that.

Bush got us into Iraq based on lies and his own agenda. I did not support the War in Iraq and I am sadden by the lives of our brave men and women that were scarificed by his actions. President Bush was wrong and America paid for it not only in hundreds of Billions of Dollars that could have been invested in America over here but the 4,000+ and growing number of lives that were sacrified.

The insult here is in the careless regard President Bush had for the lives of our brave men and women. I have and always will have the uptmost respect for my fallen comrades past, present and to come. They paid the ultimate price and more will follow. We owe them our respect for sure. We owe their families our respect for sure. And we must be on guard not to let this happen again needlessly.

To date, what did we win in Iraq any way???

US Navy Disabled Veteran - Retired,

To date, what did we win in Iraq any way???

My sentiments exactly...I bet you, no one can with a straight face answer that question. Thanks for the reminder USN.

US Navy Disabled Veteran - Retired,

To date, what did we win in Iraq any way?

Tune in this weekend -

NO ONE wins in war...we just refer to the side that lost the least as "winners."

For everyone calling for action in Libya,

Please go to the military member who is closest to you (father, mother, brother, sister, son, daughter, cousin, uncle, aunt or close friend) and explain how their life is not as important as a freedom fighter in a country on the other side of the planet. Understand, regardless of what you say they will go if called to and sacrifice if ordered. When the smoke clears and the flag draped caskets start coming home instead of the beautiful young Americans who left, do not forget it was you who called them to duty. Unless you have been there, lost loved ones or had someone you love come home with demons plaguing their dreams and quiet moments, you will never feel the true cost of war.

Prudence is our Presidents only viable/sane answer to Libya.

The mightiest Nation on Earth has been relegated to third-world status by mixed up folks fondling Socialism in our Republic.

• Schools are now the President's Job - how foolish. It takes a villiage to raise a child - not a nation. Never expect to send $1 to Washington and get that whole $1 back in goods or services.
• Food giveaways are now the President's Job - Idle time is rewarded with government$$ I've seen spent on cheetos/pop and candy.
• New cars are now the President's Job - Ca$h for clunker$, a fiscal mess.
• Giving everybody a job is now the President's Job - Shovel Ready jobs @ $500K apiece.
• Free housing is now the Presindent's Job - why not, we're giving away everything else?

In the meantime, national interests and allys go to the wayside, with the greedy recipients of our hard earned tax money vying for an ever bigger piece of the pie to ante up their next entitlement. Then they extoll hatred and contempt for businesses and people whom have worked hard to have a more comfortable life and (ironically) have been paying the taxes to support these freeloaders, instead of extending our National reach beyond their little worlds

I'm pretty sure that I will get some flak from this statement but, I'm going ahead with it anyway. I joined the U.S. Army in 1982 know full well what was expected of me, with all that was going on in the world at the time. I saw first hand how close we came to nuclear war because, I was part of the command and control of nuclear ordnance at the time, ( if some of you remember...the Reagan years, when we didn't take any crap from anyone.) When we bombed Libya it was because of terrorist ties to the Berlin night club bombing. He saw how close we could get back then and he shut the hell up. what do you think he would do now? Nothing. Why, because Reagan is gone and we don't have anyone to step up and do the right thing. I did my time in Iraq and we actually did what we said we were going to do...time to get the hell out of there and let them take care of their own "internal" problems. Libya has been a thorn since the late '70s, time to take care of that one. He still has terrorist training facilities in operation, just because he has helped us in the past doesn't mean he has a free ride. Just like here and anywhere else in the world, if you break the law then you are accountable. Don't let him start killing people that disagree with a dictatorships.

justoneguy.

The mightiest Nation on Earth has been relegated to third-world status by mixed up folks fondling Socialism in our Republic.

• Schools are now the President's Job - how foolish. It takes a villiage to raise a child - not a nation. Never expect to send $1 to Washington and get that whole $1 back in goods or services.

Actually, most red states send $1 to Washington, but then receive between $1.20 to $2.00 cash back, while blue states on the other hand get less back...why do we keep supporting walfare (red) states?

• New cars are now the President's Job - Ca$h for clunker$, a fiscal mess.

Actually, that thingy you call a fiscal mess has saved GM.... they are now profitable and the government has actually sold it's GM shares....care to rephrase this?

You need to re-evaluate your thinking if you think $1 magically turns into $2 without anybody paying in.

Ca$h for Clunder$ - do the research..... a mess. Obama himself hasn't mentioned it since it passed, and he hopes it never comes up again. But you'll be hearing more about this fiasco in 2012... his pollitical opponants won't have it any other way.

I'm flattered you didn't wish to challenge more than that.....Thanks.

You need to re-evaluate your thinking if you think $1 magically turns into $2 without anybody paying in.

Someone does pay in...people in blue streets. Let me try to explain it differently. People in blue states send money to Washington and get less back than they paid in. People in red states send money to Washington and get every dime sent back PLUS some of what the blue state residents paid in.

You're welcome.

Red States? Blue States??

Good Grief!

Personally I'm sick of giving the red states a damn handout every year. If you're taking more than you're giving you should be paying interest on the balance, period.

Well done Jody:

This is the week in a nutshell for those who want to keep up with the news, but unable to do so. Your points are rational and well written. Also an excellent clarification that this is not a Third War.

Thank you Jody. I don't know how you can stand Joe S. He is one of the most judgmental condescending persons on all tv. Even with the brackets. Can you imagine how happy it must be for these young basketball players to see the President of the United States taking the time to pick their teams.

March Madness is very popular in this country and if President Obama had ignored it, he would have been accused of not caring about our young athletes. It took him all of 9 minutes.

Meanwhile the GOP complain - while they sit and watch the games.

Reform according to the Karl Rove/GOP Dictionary (play book)

1) Create huge tax cuts for those that paid for your election (Koch, Rove, USCOC etc)

2) Put the cost of said "tax cuts" on the backs of the Middle Class and call them "Spending Cuts". Refer to said Spending cuts as "Fiscal Responsibility"

3) Take away as many rights (preferred voting rights) as possible and blame it on the Unions

etc......etc..........etc

Thanks, Ron and Pat. I can stand Joe in brief doses; just happened to catch those remarks before tuning out. What better way to encourage young athletes and connect with the millions who enjoy March Madness, myself included, than by the President participating in the fun. The critics are petty.

Navy, good points about "reform".

Jody:

Republican talking head Larry Kudlow commented on the Japanese disaster, "the human toll here looks to be much worse that the economic toll, and we can be grateful for that."

Every once in a while, one of these guys slips up and says what he really thinks. Kudlow was expressing exactly the attitude that will guide the US government if the Republicans win back the total control they had from 2001 to 2007.

Jody. wonderful post, you covered all the bases. Thank you.

I'm with Pat on Joe S. and I give you great credit for watching that insufferable, egomaniacal blowhard. I watched it last week when he was away and it was enjoyable, they do get some interesting guests.

Jody:

Kudos. You summed up the week real nice like. Thank you. Notice the little mousies scampering around this AM looking for some scraps.

Hi Jody,

Two words; GREAT POST.

Good Morning Navy, Louis, Bev, Feisty Great posts. thank you.

O'Reilly has a point...

The coverage of the crisis at Japan's nuclear plants has bordered on hysterical at times...particularly the reporting of CNN's Anderson Cooper, and MSNBC's own Rachel Maddow.

President Obama's comments about the crisis in Japan were a welcome contrast to the media's sensationalism.

Bag Boy:

President Obama's comments about the crisis in Japan were a welcome contrast to the media's sensationalism.

President Obama was a welcome contrast? Are you feeling okay, Bag Boy? ;-)

Ron:

Also an excellent clarification that this is not a Third War.

Not yet.

One of your best, Jody. We get so tied up in the "inside baseball" aspects of politics that we lose track of the really important things. That would be all the important services that could suffer draconian cuts in the quest of Conservatives to declare by covering 87% of a giant tax cut they HAD TO HAVE for the wealthy elites. Tsunami warnings? Who needs them? Tornado warnings? People ought to know better than to live in Tornado Alley. Flood prevention? Sorry buddy, guess you're out of luck. And as long as we're taking away your services you'd better also be prepared to shoulder an even bigger share of the tax load, middle class citizen. We need to make sure rich people have enough to share with the rest of us.

And with all that the Republicans constitutional imperative to take responsibility for the budget takes a back seat to taking away the rights of their fellow Americans. Can't have brown people or poor people voting. Gay? Better get yourself into one of those "pray away the Gay" programs. Good luck negotiating the best deal you can get from your employer, banding together to do it as a group would just be wrong. Pregnant? You've a lot of nerve to think you should make decisions about your own body...we've got that covered.

It goes on and on...Conservatives have shown us who they REALLY are. It's time to believe them.

" Can you imagine how happy it must be for these young basketball players to see the President of the United States taking the time to pick their teams."

And can you imagine how crushed they are when the President of the United States doesn't pick their team?

....or maybe they just don't give a @!$%#?

What are you, the propaganda minister?

Anna Molly-

Yup.

Absolutely.

"Tsunami warnings? Who needs them? Tornado warnings? People ought to know better than to live in Tornado Alley. Flood prevention? Sorry buddy"

How come you never mention that the Presidents proposed budget cuts Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)?

www.csmonitor.com/USA/Politics/2011/0210/Among-Obama-s-tough-budget-cuts-money-to-help-needy-pay-for-heat

I have written a applet that searches Txt delineated files for words. Im doing a running count on blogs for the words Koch Rove Palin and Bachman! For all my Independent and right leaning friends need to fillout the MSNBC Brackets for the tourny. It could take a few days to get the names filled in to start the tourny. But this could be fun as we work up to the next Shellacking in 2012. The day after the election we can give the "trophy" A stuffed turkey buzzard out to the liberal with the highest count!

"Thousands gathered in state capitols in Michigan, Ohio, Iowa, New Jersey and elsewhere to protest. The GOPTP says they are listening to the people. My question is which people? Polls prove it isn't the majority of the people they hear."

That is so true! It's unbelievable to me that Republican governors are targeting the salary and benefits of teachers, firefighter, cops, bus drivers, snowplow drivers, electricians, plumbers, etc while shielding Wall Street executives who get millions of dollars in bonuses for tanking the world economy. Unbelievable.

Amy,

The Republican governors have no impact on "shielding Wall Street executives", the only governor that can do that is the governor of NY, who I believe is a Democrat (maybe NJ is able to impact them as well, lots of NY jobs in NJ, and he's a Republican). Thousands gathering is a fairly significant number, and I certainly believe that in states that are comprised of millions of people it's significant. However, the voters of the impacted states, of which Maine isn't one you list, will be the ones to make the decisions as to which direction the state will go.

Odd how polls are always in favor of whatever position that we (individually, or collectively) support. Either that, or they're ignored, or called "inaccurate". Not picking on you, merely remarking on a situation that both sides promote.

@Amy

Please post link about the thousands that gathered in Trenton (maybe last year?). I missed it otherwise.

www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/02/09/njchristie-approval-52-ap_n_820747.html

Jody - I see that you are as big of a nut and 0bama apologist as the rest of the people that are being ignored. Had Dubya participated in the Libya no fly zone you would be screaming to high heaven. Libya is no threat to the US - (Qaddafi may be now) and after doing nothing for 3 weeks when people were getting slaughtered we finally decide to do something. We don't know who the rebels are? Are they the Muslim brotherhood? Hamas? Al Qaeda? You people are the biggest hypocrites I have ever seen!

All of the arguing back and forth all the gloating about who was right or wrong about Libya take a breath. Take just a minute and think of the young men and women who will be called upon to defend us. Unless someone murders Qaddaffi this is going to be a war. So just take one minute and hold them in your heart.

To Bob and all other Pelosi haters in this blog,

She got the job done and worked for her money, unlike Boehner who has trouble counting votes between his drinking and his schtooping. All Republicans can do is hate on a 70 year old hard working woman because you can't stand the fact that she is successful. Same hating you do on the President because you can't stand the fact that he is very successful. Same old crowd hating on women and minorities for being successful. It has gotten old and will bite you in the a$%! Obama 2012.

You nailed it, New Wavez.

Glad you brought it up New Wave, I heard about it on Rachel last week and the media has barely mentioned. I've been caught up with family matters this week or so, but to my knowledge there has hardly been a ripple.

To me this is as bad as what happened in WI and in some ways even worse. The media are falling down on their role in our democracy.

New Wavez,

I agree. Anyone with any common sense knows where the loyalty of the Republican leadership is invested, and it’s certainly not with the working class of America.

New wave- I would suggest you do a little research on the level of corruption in say, the city of Detroit. Maybe take a trip there to see the misery of the people of that city.

Not only is the crime rate breathtakingly high, but the trash is left to pile up because removal is sporadic at best, the housing is deplorable, ( I guess code enforcement cannot be bothered to actually inspect- they simply count the money in the envelope handed to them), the schools are a disgrace. . .

You think you care about the poor? Who, exactly, do you think is consigned to live In these places? Something needs to be done. If you do not like what has been proposed, try coming up with a proposal of your own.

Listen to me, sounding like a liberal!

Here's the GOOD news:

Yesterday, thousands of Main Street Movement protesters marched on the Michigan Capitol to protest Gov. Rick Snyder’s (R) constitutionally flawed assault on Michigan workers. Michigan’s voters, however, can do far more than simply make their displeasure known to Snyder and his allies in the state legislature. Michigan’s constitution is unusually easy to amend, and Snyder and his allies become eligible for a recall in just over three months.

http://blog.aflcio.org/2011/03/16/thousands-of-michigan-workers-protest-snyders-power-grab/

Voters are starting to realize they were played for fools in the 2010 election! And they're p!ssed!

New Wavez:

Right on target. Keep posting.

Had it been a democrat passing this sort of measure, can you imagine what fox news would be telling these people? OMG! I swear the wingnuts would've got their guns out with open season on liberals - but since it's the red guys...it's all just marvy.

That's good to hear Feisty. And I think we are all realizing we have to make our wishes known in large numbers and loudly too. This is the change from the bottom up the President has to happen. We have to want it and be willing to fight for it and it is happening.

"Feisty"

What in the H*ll does Michigan have to do with this Article?

You need to get a life!

And I think we are all realizing we have to make our wishes known in large numbers and loudly too.

I've said it before and I'll say it again GM, Gov. Walkers reprehensible actions was a GIANT gift for Democrats!

He re-energized the party to a level I haven't witnessed in years!

Add on Gov Scott (R) FL (you know him, the convicted felon), Gov. Snyder and the rest of the wanna be dictators actions, and it's going to get rough out there!

Inevitably, good always wins over evil!

Feisty, yes they are. Let the recalls begin. They have even made people in their own party mad as he!! pulling back their initial support. Even in a little State like Vermont we had rallies that drew crowds of business people and workers all in support of Wisconsin and Ohio's working people. They gave speeches on how if their is no middle class there will be no small businesses either and no economy. The richest 2% do not have anywhere near the capital to keeps this economy moving forward or this country out of the toilet. They just are shooting themselves in the foot. These small business will go out of business, they will not be able to buy and resell the products of the big business because there will be no money to do it.

In many cases it is the small business that is the distribution arm of the big business and if they go under so do they. Nobody to buy shoes, food, books, cars, trucks, pay their fuel bills, clothes, etc etc etc. This is just not a good ideology that they are currently on. PERIOD.

New Wavez, thanks for reminding us that Conservative Republicans are still working hard to disenfranchise the citizens of Michigan.

According to the law, which has already been approved in the House, the governor will be able to declare “financial emergency” in towns or school districts and appoint someone to fire local elected officials, break contracts, seize and sell assets, and eliminate services.

Under the law whole cities or school districts could be eliminated without any public participation or oversight, and amendments designed to provide minimal safeguards and public involvement were voted down.

An amendment to require Emergency Managers to hold monthly public meetings to let people know how they are governing was rejected by Senate Republicans, along with proposals to cap Emergency Manager compensation and require that those appointed to run school districts have some background in education.

http://michiganmessenger.com/47203/emergency-managers-bill-sweeps-toward-final-approval

Now were in My state, Yeeehaw! lol Yes, the independents in Michigan sided with the Right and voted Rick in to do PRECISELY what he is doing. And WE love him for it. I heard a call on 97.1 talk radio this morning from a Union Public worker in one of our local counties. coff coff Oakland! He was very frank and told Us all that he made 59k a year and had a 401 k. He had gladly taken cuts to make his County solvent and understood the shared sacrifice we ALL have to make. He then said that has TWO former union managers that are currently retired that make over twice what he makes RETIRED and pay NO tax on their benefits. Sorry thats just wrong...... Go Rick take them all to task and make the corrections were needed.

jollyoldsoul1

Now were in My state, Yeeehaw! lol Yes, the independents in Michigan sided with the Right and voted Rick in to do PRECISELY what he is doing

But you lost the narrative!!! Can you say why he's backing off?

Recalls lmao.......... yea start counting them. Keep your selves busy!

jollyoldsoul, you're going to need to provide some backup if we're to believe your ridiculous claim that Snyder campaigned on a platform of seizing control of local governmental authorities, firing officials who were elected by the citizenry, and autocratically replacing them with people of his own choosing with no confirmation process or oversight.

We'll be waiting for proof that Snyder told people during the election that he'd overturn the democratic process at his discretion.

jollyoldsoul1:

Recalls lmao.......... yea start counting them. Keep your selves busy!

And so far, they HAVE been busy, counting 45 percent of the needed signatures in well under half of the time necessary.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/plum-line/post/nearly-half-of-signatures-collected-to-recall-wisconsin-gop-state-senators-dems-say/2011/03/03/ABhVvQV_blog.html

Dems have now collected over 56,000 signatures supporting the recall drives, according to party spokesman Graeme Zielinski, after another surge in organizing activity over the weekend. That’s up from rougly 14,000 after last weekend. This means Dems are well ahead of schedule: In each targeted district, Dems need to amass the required signatures — 25 percent of the number who voted in the last gubernatorial election — by a deadline of 60 days after first filing for recalls, which happened nearly two weeks ago.

In other words, Dems are reporting they are nearly halfway to the finish line, with roughly three-fourths of the alloted time remaining.

Unlike conservatives, who have had a bit less success with that recall thing, dropping 5 out of their 8 recall drives for lack of interest.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/03/16/conservatives-we-are-bein_n_836794.html

it is a bit of a mystery to me. You would think they would want to make sure all these [recall] efforts are successful.

A mystery as to why conservatives can't get THEIR recalls to work? Hey, maybe that's because those polls are actually right, you think?

What is it they say, jollyoldsoul1? He who laughs last laughs best.

RVZ, My little pidgeon, did ya' miss me?

Word has it that you actually think that Americans deserved to be killed in Hawaii (1941) and New York (2001). Why do you hate Liberty so? Those people did nothing to you.

We REAL Americans in the Liberal community don't appreciate your hatred of our troops, and people like you and Dickie Cheney that evaded the draft, and combat service don't deserve the blessings of Liberty that this nation awards to its true Patriots.

If you cannot dredge up the testicular foritude to serve this nation nobly, then you might as well be dropped over Tehran in a parachute and let the teeming hordes have "their way" with you.

You are a stench in the nostrils of decent Patriots like Fiesty, Navy, Bev and Ron in Indiana.

Too bad you ain't got the b***s that God gave a hampster.

I can't speak for Greg - however, I would take being called a 'rump ranger over a RUMP ROAST any day pal!!!

Do keep postin though, your insanity is what will drive Independents back to the Democratic party in DROVESl!

Now bend over and grab your ankles like any card carrying tea bagger...

Dude (or dudette if that's more appropriate) if you think I feel "oppressed and victimized" you're sadly mistaken. That implies the "learned helplessness" of an abuse victim. I'm working for a better society and that won't change. That doesn't hit as hard as your obvious hate and vitriol, but it gives energy to keep running the marathon. It's how the United States developed a tradition of positive change which has continuously made this nation a better place. I carry on that tradition, handed down to me by the generation of the Civil Rights and Women's Rights movements. My adult children are carrying it into the future.

I guess, reflecting on that I see what you're so angry about. Ultimately you lose.

http://theobamadiary.com/2011/03/17/welcome-3/

Here are a couple of cute photos of signs being put together by children in El Salvador as they wait the President’s arrival this weekend.

Here’s a nice letter I came across at blackwaterdog’s website. Since the GOP and the left feel the need to constantly berate President Obama, I thought his supporters would like to read something “classy” for a change.

President Barack Obama has fulfilled several campaign promises in just his short time in office even though he inherited two wars, a bad economy, trillion dollar deficits, and a broken health care system.

Political critics, pundits and so-called experts, paid by lobbyist or corporations all have something to gain by knocking or putting down these accomplishments. Of course the Republican Party is trying to win back something they lost in 2008 so they are just plain mad.

Ultimately the president's biggest victory has been Health Care Reform and the State Children's Health Insurance Program. They provide every American opportunity for affordable health insurance. This is federal law so do not be intimidated by state lawmakers and their rhetoric. Federal law will always overrule state law so go purchase your affordable health care insurance today.

As a veteran and married to a retired veteran, I am extremely proud of our president for keeping his promise in ending combat operations in Iraq and right now our troops have begun returning home.

Discrimination has no place in any society so the president's signing of legislation that brought an end to Don't Ask, Don't Tell in our military as well as Fair Pay legislation for women, helps to protect against civil rights and work place discrimination.

President Obama also signed into law student loan reform that makes college more affordable for students and he adequately funded programs like Race to the Top and Educate to Innovate, which give our local schools the tools and resources they need to be successful. The new and improved GI Bill will make college affordable for returning service members.

Change does not happen overnight. The media and the other side would have you think otherwise. I stand by my president and the promises he has kept.

Terry McMoore, Clarksville 37042

________

You have a nice weekend Mixed Bag. Looks like spring is here in the Boston area. For a while anyway.

Maybe Obamacare is more popular in El Salvador than it is in the United States, Pat.

I don't think there is typically an anniversary celebration for major laws. The Civil Rights Act of 1964 comes to mind as one that might be celebrated as a huge step towards equal rights and liberties. But I don't don't think celebrating the anniversary of a new law is appropriate. The very fact that millions are already enjoying the benefits of our first step towards health care for all, is the most appropriate way to celebrate its passage.

That said, if you or your family has benefitted greatly from the new laws, feel free to celebrate in your own way!

Pat, enjoyed those signs and that positive article about President Obama. Through the eyes of children--you can almost feel their excitement about meeting "Mr. President Obama" and showing off their school.

Bag:

Maybe Obamacare is more popular in El Salvador than it is in the United States, Pat.

In a recent House hearing on health care I saw on C-SPAN, a Democratic congressman protested the use of the term "Obamacare" because it was specifically meant to denigrate the name of the president of the United States. If Mitt Romney had somehow overcome his repulsiveness and been elected president in 2008, you wouldn't be attacking "Romneycare." Most the comments you make in this forum just the symptoms of your Obama Derangement Syndrome. They have nothing to do with any real policy criticisms.

Houston:

You noticed that huh. Good catch.

lol, Houston-

Given some of the terms you use...

You're in no position to complain about "Obamacare", eh?

:-)

If Mitt Romney had somehow overcome his repulsiveness and been elected president in 2008, you wouldn't be attacking "Romneycare."

Doggone right, Houston. Instead we would be attacking "Romneyhair."

I mean, really. ;-)

Houston, I cannot speak for Mixed Bag, but I can tell you that I DO denigrate "Romneycare".

And Tenncare, which is also bankrupt.

And Hawaiicare, which shut down to basics because it, too, was going belly- up.

A bad idea does not become a good idea because a republican proposes or implements it. Hence, I was vehemently against Medicare part D.

See how it works? I get that Democrats do not understand the concept of having one standard that applies to all situations, but, believe me, it makes life much, much easier.

Bag

You're in no position to complain about "Obamacare", eh?

Who's complaining? I'm just pointing out that your inability to discuss the health care reform without using that term over and over just shows you've got nothing intelligent to say on the subject.

Houston-

My mistake...I thought you objected to the use of the term "Obamacare".

Since you don't object...I'll continue to use it.

And...we'll both be happy, eh?

By the way...have you noticed that virtually every one of your responses to one of my posts involves an ad hominem attack?

:-)

But what about me, Bag Boy? What about MY happiness?

Don't you AnnaMollycare?

LoL Sometimes I even make myself giggle. Or wait. ;-)

Bag:

By the way...have you noticed that virtually every one of your responses to one of my posts involves an ad hominem attack?

No, but I've noticed you whining about ad hominem attacks, except when you're the one making them.

nojonob

See how it works? I get that Democrats do not understand the concept of having one standard that applies to all situations, but, believe me, it makes life much, much easier.

That was kind of the idea behind the Affordable Care Act. States can even implement very different policies spelled out in the ACA if the standards of care are the same.

As for states having problems with funding their own health care policies, states are having problems with just about everything because of the recession and the expiration of the stimulus funds. States like Hawaii and Massachusetts are having problems with funding health care, but the people in those states are still a lot better off than people in states like Mississippi or Texas (the state with the worst ranking for percent of the population uninsured as of 2009):

http://www.gallup.com/poll/122387/uninsured-highest-percentage-texas-lowest-mass.aspx

Actually, Houston-

Your style of debate says a lot about you.

Ad hominem arguments indicate an inability to effectively advocate for your position on the merits...they also tend to be employed by immature individuals who respond emotionally when challenged, and feel threatened as a result.

The big downside of the ad hominem argument is that, once you accuse someone of, let's say "brainless teabaggery"...you've lost the exchange, Houston.

Game, set, match.

It's over.

:-)

You KNOW that I care, AM.

Bag:

The big downside of the ad hominem argument is that, once you accuse someone of, let's say "brainless teabaggery"...you've lost the exchange, Houston.

You still don't know what an ad hominem attack is, do you? An ad hominem attack is an attack on the character of a person that has no relevance to the question at hand. Attacking someone for a prior DWI conviction is an ad hominem attack when discussing energy policy but not when discussing who should drive. Pointing out brainless teabaggery when it occurs is relevant. What IS an ad hominem attack is calling the ACA "Obamacare" because your hatred of the president has no relevance whatsoever to the benefits or drawbacks of the law.

I'd say you're right, Houston. The last time I checked "explaining how a policy works" isn't the same as "ad hominem argument." That's OK, it's a big word and maybe someone won't notice.

Pointing out brainless teabaggery when it occurs is relevant.

Houston: Much as I hate to agree with Bag Boy, I believe that calling someone "brainless" qualifies just about every time as an ad hominem attack, as it is unlikely to be related to the subject matter, unless the subject matter itself is hungry zombies. It also constitutes poisoning the well, which is a second logical fallacy that people often employ to avoid responding on the merits.

The last time I checked "explaining how a policy works" isn't the same as "ad hominem argument."

Perhaps, not, John B., but calling someone a "brainless teabagger" in lieu of, or even while, "explaining how a policy works" IS the same as an ad hominem attack.

You KNOW that I care, AM.

So when did you get to be the Big Bopper, Bag Boy?

Wow, Anna Molly-

How much would you have charged for that in a courtroom?

Then...

How much would you have charged me...?

:-)

Double. But for a good giggle, I'll waive the fee. ;-)

Thanks, AM-

I feared far worse.

;-)

Job1:

Thank you for the kind words. Your posts have been excellent all week. On target and the truth I look forward to them every morning. Have a great weekend. Finally 2 nice days in a row here in Northern Vermont. I forget I had a car parked around the side of the house finally enough snow melted to see it again. Be well.

Well, if the NY Post said it...

http://www.nypost.com/p/news/international/hill_tired_of_dithering_sg3s01acaPRFoZ4u2cLwAN

We need names or it didn't happen. Not a spin, simply a call for some facts before forming an opinion either way. I do like the idea of an administration where people can express their opinions though, without being called a traitor. That said, common sense tells one that it's unlikely this was said, especially given the anonymous nature of the blurb.

By the way, a bit off-topic, but I've noticed that every time I turn on Fox News, there is always a headline that begins "Critics of President Obama express concern that blah blah blah." I keep saying to myself, well yes, that is what critics of the President do. If they ever started agreeing with Obama, they wouldn't be critics now, would they? Fox News also never actually says who these "critics" are, leading one to believe the headlines come from a dark, damp place.

Care to provide exactly where you read this article.

The President handled the Libyan situation perfectly. He waited until the International community spoke as one against the terrible situation in Libya, which is exactly what he should have done. Only an idiot would have unilaterally moved against Libya, Al-Qaida would have loved it, they could have used for recruiting and as proof the U.S. loves attacking Muslim countries, all the "guns blazing" $hit does is stir up trouble and help the very people who hate our guts, I am glad we have an adult in the White House and if things are not happening fast enough for the neo-con bastards that ruined this countries international standing most would say that's a very good thing indeed, maybe we can avoid another 9/11 if we don't act stupid.

Jody:

Just more spin and false hoods from those with no ideas, no morals, no shame, no ethics, no jobs, no economic plan, etc.

Who wouldn't believe an anonymous source in Rupert Murdoch's NY scandal sheet?

Isn't the NY Post a rag news paper?

US Navy, glad to see you've recognized what the Democratic Party stands for! Thanks! Also, I think it's very interesting how you liberals always refer to Fox News and the Koch brothers while you forget to mention the impact Gorge Soros (media matters, ect) and MSNBC, CBS, NBC, NPR, the Huffington Press and all the other left leaning blogs have on the policy debates here in the US!

Good Morn all - the NY Post is a specialist in Yellow Journalism and is also owned by Rupert Murdoch who I guess also owns Faux News....so you can imagine how truthful the Post reports would be...and as a way of full disclosure - Murdoch also owns the Wall St. Journal....another bastion of conservative truth (?).

Paul S, NY NY

Good Morn all - the NY Post is a specialist in Yellow Journalism and is also owned by Rupert Murdoch who I guess also owns Faux News....so you can imagine how truthful the Post reports would be...and as a way of full disclosure - Murdoch also owns the Wall St. Journal....another bastion of conservative truth (?).

Yes it is I always try to check out the source.

This morning I heard this question on Radio Rwanda aka FOX NEWS which is so similar to the daily scare taticts Radio Rwanda air daily said the source was anonymous.

So I goggled it. It is a Rupert Murdoch masterpiece.

[snip]

OH, HILL NO

Obama's indecision on Libya has pushed Clinton over the edge

BY JOSHUA HERSH THURSDAY, MARCH 17, 2011

Fed up with a president “who can’t make his mind up” as Libyan rebels are on the brink of defeat, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton is looking to the exits.

At the tail end of her mission to bolster the Libyan opposition, which has suffered days of losses to Col. Moammar Gadhafi’s forces, Clinton announced that she’s done with Obama after
2012 — even if he wins again.

“Obviously, she’s not happy with dealing with a president who can’t decide if today is Tuesday or Wednesday, who can’t make his mind up,” a Clinton insider tol

http://www.thedaily.com/page/2011/03/17/031711-news-hillary-2-2/This

Then I found this...

Rupert Murdoch Unveils The Daily

http://nymag.com/daily/intel/2011/02/murdoch_unveils_the_daily.html

So the FEAR CHANNEL'S question-and-smear session is unfounded; thus far.

Jennifer, glad to see you point this out. Unfortunately, I had time this week to view a lot of tv, and the media really does drive the criticisms, they focus on a particular tidbit project a mindset and run up the fear and ankiety, playing to the lazy intellect of many americans.

There are those who take these results and turn them into facts for the biased and ignorant amongst us.

Anyone in particular?

Good point, Jennifer and I pretty much agree.

I don't think NBC has been fear mongering, their nightly news has been scientifically based discussion of Japan's nuclear problem. However the chattering class on many cable channels has definitely stoked the anxiety levels. It is the 24/7 cable media that tends to drive the nonstory into a story--the talking heads are still trying to push the idea that President Obama hasn't been engaged in the budget debate despite all the proof saying otherwise. Gets annoying.

Jody, you are correct, I should have said the cable news, I get the impression thay are trying to justify their 24/7 existence especially during the daytime hours and late late night.

The network newscasts unfortunately do not have enough time alloted to do any in depth coverage anymore than the American viewers have not the attention span to listen long enough to be educated. The 24/7 newscycle is a form of brainwashing no matter what side one leans towards and unless one is interested enough or not intellectually lazy, the sound bytes become the talking points that sometimes drives the fear and ankiety.

This is a very good idea, but it might not qualify as a "union" under the National Labor Relations Act, which requires that bargaining units have a community of interest of some sort relating to their work. You could, however, call it something else -- like you suggest -- but I personally prefer the Labor League of America.

Just make it one big PAC for the working class. Money may not sing and dance, but it sure talks.

Exactly so. I like the way you think.

Anna Molly:

Great work this week. Just about every GOP/TP controlled state is proposing huge cuts to education some as high as several Billion Dollars while giving huge income and property tax cuts (property tax cuts further the assault on education) to corporations and the wealthy. And then McConnell talks about his concern for children and grand children's future. The current GOP/TP is one of the most repugnant I have ever seen and I have been on this planet for a long time.

These guys just want a total destructon of the economy and the political landscape so they can recreate it in their image (ideology) as we have seen in some countries in Europe. It did not work then and it will not work now but this country will suffer and suffer big time.

Anna Molly, I had no idea this ridiculous power grab goes so far as to FORBID local districts from seeking offsetting funding increases from taxpayers. This is nothing short of an outright attack on the citizens of Wisconsin, all to enrich Koch Industries and other big businesses operating within the state. What happened to local control of education? What happened to pushing government decisions to the lowest possible level? Instead this simply starves local government, the single entity that does the most for citizens and is inherently most responsive.

Thanks for the update, Anna Molly. Is there any news on the recalls in progress?

Yes, in fact, Steeler Fan, as I understand it, they already have about half the signatures they need with several weeks -- until sometime in May, I believe -- to go. Meanwhile, the underfunded conservative recall efforts against democrats have already shrunk from eight senators down to three.

And they're discouraged. Poor babies.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/03/16/conservatives-we-are-bein_n_836794.html

John B.:

Anna Molly, I had no idea this ridiculous power grab goes so far as to FORBID local districts from seeking offsetting funding increases from taxpayers.

In fact, we've already had something similar in place for about 15 years, whereby in order to exceed certain revenue caps, districts have to go to referendum. This is not a very efficient way to fund education, as it depends entirely on the whim of taxpayers and who turns out to vote in any given election. Many, many times these referenda have failed, leaving local school districts scrabbling, and leading to widespread disparities in school funding.

This new measure, unfortunately, just institutionalizes the pain, while at the same time removing the last glimmer of hope for those enlightened districts, like the one I live in, which do vote to raise taxes from time to time when necessary to avert disaster.

You're absolutely right about the assault on local government. In effect, this is Michigan lite, and I wouldn't be surprised to see that whole concept imported here, sooner rather than later.

US Navy:

Just about every GOP/TP controlled state is proposing huge cuts to education some as high as several Billion Dollars while giving huge income and property tax cuts (property tax cuts further the assault on education) to corporations and the wealthy.

Yes, exactly. Non-sum-zero. I've heard that specifically in at least two states, Florida, and I can't remember the other one offhand. Here in Wisconsin, the budget repair bill almost exactly offset the tax breaks that had been passed in January, while no one was paying attention.

The frustrating thing is that, no matter how often you say this, Navy, none of the conservatives out here who think they're so smart about fiscal matters even bothers to listen to you.

Very frustrating. I'm glad I had a couple of days off to repair my point of view.

Anna Molly, terrific information. Thanks for keeping us informed about what's really happening in Wisconsin. I knew there was a lot of egregious stuff in Walker's legislation but I had no idea it forbids local governments from seeking alternative ways to fund their needs. And thanks for the recall update.

none of the conservatives out here who think they're so smart about fiscal matters even bothers

With any intellectual effort greater than would be required to take a dump. On any issue.

Fixed for ya.

LoL Thank you VERY much, maximillio. So much better than I could say it.

Now that's really using your noodle. Use a "nuke", incinerate thousands of innocent civilians who are fighting against Khadafy, contaminate the enter region including the high quality oil in Libya for what purpose exactly? Make a point?  There are many less stupid ways of solving this.

I agree. Somalia next. And then Pakistan.

And don't forget Iran.

And Venezuela. For heaven's sake, don't forget Venezuela.

And darn, we'd better do something about Canada, too. If we don't do something about those crazy communist socialized medicine nuts, pretty soon we'll be overrun with healthy Canucks.

YouNeedTruth2

This is not the way. No crazy talk and no nukes.

You are looking pretty tired yourself Tarzan7.

And boring.

Very boring.

I was thinking about the beautiful note President Obama wrote in the condolance book at the Japanese embassy yesterday. I know it's a small thing, but the Japanese do appreciate caligraphy, and the President's handwriting showed he has a natural grace a Janpaese person would appreciate.

I am so glad donations jumped three fold for the agency President Obama asked everyone to donate to yesterday. Let's face it, let's money to Japan, that is what they need more than anything at this moment.

You can say a wasted 4years for Obama... even though has only been in office for a lil over 2years....but in all honesty, history will judge...

We know your guys (Bush and Rummy) are running around the country trying to revise history while selling books... it wasn't just a waste of 4yrs while they were in office.... the set the country back 50 or so years (disclaimer: the 50yrs wasn't a scientifically calculated number :-P).

See, here's the deal. It doesn't matter because we're going to get hit with a comet, anyway.

http://reinep.wordpress.com/2011/01/18/comet-elenin-could-hit-earth/

Great post, Nashville Fan. Good reminder that once upon a time the GOP also believed in something other than corporate greed and millionaires/billionaires.

"Those that fail to learn from history, are doomed to repeat it." - Winston Churchill

Since the Wisconsin fiasco, I've seen some comments made that unions might have been OK back when workers had to work twelve-hour days for six days a week for lousy pay and often under horribly dangerous conditions. But that's all in the past so we don't need unions anymore.

Well, without the unions the future could look a lot like the past. After all, we've got to stay "competitive" with countries where workers work long hours for lousy pay under dangerous conditions. And the next time the Republicans have full control of the government, which they will sooner or later, they are sure to attempt to make the US more "competitive" in that respect without any union movement to oppose them. The GOP, of course, opposes President Obama's vision of competitiveness based on investment, innovation, and better education rather than exploitation of a cheap labor.

Jody, Houston:

Good points. If we never had a union movement at all in this country, we would not have the standard of living we have today PERIOD. We would have far fewer homeowners, college graduates, medical research, technology, teachers, nurses, car ownership, wages, health care, pensions, savings, etc, etc, etc,etc.

For some reason people have lost sight of what tremendous good that unions have done. They want to attack the bad whether real or made up instead. The unions are an easy target and that is what bullies and cowards typically attack.

No question Nash. The GOPTP is trying to recreate the America of the Robber Baron days, when towns lived or died based on their willingness to give fealty to the local factory owner, people lost all they owned on a regular basis through financial "panics" while working 70 hour weeks. Meanwhile the rich got richer while the rest struggled.

Great comment Houston . . . I couldn't agree more. Even though they keep moving the goal post, President Obama just keeps on crossing the goal line.

Love it.

Houston, I concur with Nashville. Libya was on his mind and of course, it must have been taking up a great deal of time to ensure that not only he, but leaders around the world, acted responsibly and not cowboyish. I have zero reservations about voting for him again in 2012. Zero.

But then, isn't President Obama supposed to be a friend of the terrorists? Isn't that was the right keep pushing?

You really don't see that what may just happen here. You really believe a no fly zone is the total answer and the end to this situation? You are very naive if you do not see the potential for us to send US troops to Lybia. It will take boots on the ground. I guess it is OK if Obama commits troops in these situations. Bush was wrong and Obama is wrong. Will you call this Obama's war? What happened to cutting military spending and the outcry to bring troops home where they belong? You guys are hypocrites.You don't have a position on an issue or issues. You just believe if Obama does it, it is right.

Anyone that can't see that the President and his staff handled the Libyan situation extraordinarily well with the utmost statesmanship surely can see nothing.

Now that Obama is comitting military resources to a third front, the right wing will suddenly find a few reasons why that is bad.

Personally, we should stay out. We can't afford it. We already have two failures going on in Iraq and Afghanistan that show how the USA sucks at this sort of thing.

Let the righties have a bake sale to buy plane tickets over there...they can join the resistance.

Tony C-2383666

You are very naive if you do not see the potential for us to send US troops to Lybia. It will take boots on the ground.

The UN resolution explicitly prohibits the use of ground forces. I"ve already heard some people said that this puts the US on the slippery slope to a ground invasion of Libya. But if that happens, I doubt it's going to be on Obama's watch. He wouldn't have moved forward even on the current resolution if it hadn't been approved by the Security Council.

A lot of people have serious reservations even about no-fly zones (and probably "no-drive" zones) being imposed by military force. I have some,too. I worry about what the consequences would be if a US pilot is shot down and captured by Gadhaffi's forces. But this is nothing like Bush's war in Iraq. That war was based on lies about WMD and Iraq's involvement in the 9/11 attacks. The justification for military action against Libya is out in the open for everyone to see: Gadhaffi is a madman who could slaughter his own people. Bill Clinton has said his biggest regret was not doing anything to stop the genocide in Rwanda. I really think Obama is trying to avoid having reason for a similar regrets about Libya.

Houston---I think the President really does have a different leadership/style and it works for him. People seem to confuse it with not caring or not being engaged but I just think it is his way of doing what he thinks is the best. The media especially doesn't seem to like it because it isn't what they are used to and it doesn't make for great sound bites but I like the results he gets.

Houston:

Very true and I hope we do not get suck into something right now. President Obama was the only adult in the room again. A cease fire has been issued (I think) and that is what he wanted as the outcome. Now they can start negotiations and stop the slaughter. Sound like solid leadership to me but the GOP/TP will find some fault with this as well. They cannot stand the fact that President Obama is doing a better job in office after 2 years than Bush did in eight.

Well said, Houston. Just heard a repub analyst claim the world was waiting for President Obama to lead on Libya and he didn't speak out about it. Such shallow minds, the UN resolution is proof President Obama was leading, he just didn't spend everyday in front of a press microphone. I much prefer President Obama who is quietly working the room (world leaders) to achieve the desired goal rather than a cowboy president projecting his intention by making a lot of noise.

Here you go again with your opinoin being a fact. Really, a cease fire. Negotiate with a mad man? Do you have a position on an issue or issues? Or do you just follow this President blindly? It was wrong for Bush to get us involved and it is wrong for Obama as well. This should be about whether or not we belong involved in these conflicts not who the President is or whether you like him or not when it happens.

Some follow blindly, Tony. I have never seen the like in my life.

The majority? Not so much. Check out this poll- not just the towlines, where Obama has had a split given the margin of error, for months. Check out the re elect number

http://syndication.nationaljournal.com/communications/Allstate%20National%20Journal%20Heartland%20Monitor%20TOPLINE%20FINAL.pdf

Ten points between those who will re elect and those who will not.

You can fool some of the people all of the time. . .

nojonob:

The majority? Not so much. Check out this poll- not just the towlines, where Obama has had a split given the margin of error, for months. Check out the re elect number

Check out the number when Obama is matched against a real live Republican, not a mythical Ronnie Reagan who never existed. He beats them all.

But what does this have to do with Libya, other than the fact that you have to lash out at Obama at every success he has?

You can fool some of the people all of the time. . .

The GOP can fool you all of the time. But I'm telling you it's safe to come out from under your bed. Obama's "death panels" are going to get you.

I'll tell you what, Tony C - if you are so interested in going to Lybia to fight, then go ahead. You can take the people who agree with your conclusions with you.

There is nothing stopping you - or any of the right-wing short-sighted supports of 'boots on the ground' from going to Lybia.

So why am I not seeing any movement from the 'ready-fire-aim' crowd??

The Chickenhawks are ready to march other people's kids into battle once again.

Pietro, either you can't read or you can't comprehend what you read. Once again, you have shown your stupidity. Nothing I said indicates my support for sending troops, exactly the opposite. You really are a moron. No other way to put it.

Tony C - maybe I cannot comprehend what you wrote, and if your position is not to send in troops, then you have my apologies.

?

Tony:

Reality is complicated. You bring up some great points, but the problem is there is no "one size fits all" solution for every conflict.

This is why we have human leaders to use their judgments and not just a simple "if this, then that" choice matrix.

I don't know what the right solution is, but I do know that there is a difference between supporting an already existing movement towards democracy that authentically orignated with the people of the country in question as opposed to attempting to generate said movement yourself by bombing the hell out of a country first, and then asking questions later.

Agree or disagree, President Obama puts THOUGHT into his decisions and weighs the short and LONG TERM consequences.

That is really all a human leader can do.

I don't care about Libyans. I said it. Don't care. Not my problem. We're pissing about $100+ Billion a year into Iraq and Afghanistan. We're firing teachers and busting their unions. All while the rich get richer.

Not with my taxes you don't. The bleeding hearts crying for the Libyans are welcome to take their rifles and hand guns there to see how well the high-capacity clips do against military weapons. But don't you dare open a third front Obama! Let the Europeans clean up their backyard for once.

If your position on getting involved in war by the former President is that he was wrong, then this President is wrong as well. What we seem to have here is that if Obama does it, it is OK. Either you have a position on an issue and are consistence or this is really about following blindly because you like the guy. Zero understanding when Bush was faced with a similar situation. You tried to mask the issues before with this reality is complicated, which doesn't apply. I kind of have some first hand experience when it comes to this "complicated" issue. I got a free trip to south east Asia and it accomplished nothing but dead friend. Obama's words are coming back to haunt him again. I will say it again. Bush was wrong. Obama is wrong. Navy told me I follow blindly?

Tony:

This is not about "Obama" and "Bush". I am not trying to convince you of anything, only sharing my perspective based on my experiences, same as you.

The Bible said it better than I ever could"

Ecclesiastes 3

A Time for Everything

¹ There is a time for everything,
and a season for every activity under the heavens:

² a time to be born and a time to die,
a time to plant and a time to uproot,
³ a time to kill and a time to heal,
a time to tear down and a time to build,
⁴ a time to weep and a time to laugh,
a time to mourn and a time to dance,
⁵ a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them,
a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing,
⁶ a time to search and a time to give up,
a time to keep and a time to throw away,
⁷ a time to tear and a time to mend,
a time to be silent and a time to speak,
⁸ a time to love and a time to hate,
a time for war and a time for peace.

I am not saying that now is a time for war. I am not saying that we should get involved militarily in Libya. I am saying that it is not a black and white issue.

Peace.

Tony get a grip Obama is the President not some gun slinging Repub, the President is not going to start another war, that's why he did not act unilaterally and waited for the U.N. security council to act, now what ever action is taken will have to be a joint effort unlike the two fiasco's Bush started on his bumbling own, is any of this soaking in Tony?

Funny. You are a hypocrate. Have no real position on an issue, you just support anything this President does. All you can respond with is condescending remarks. The UN, really.

Nashville, with all due respect. The "crowd" makes everything about Obama and Bush. I take a position on issues. When I see Obama, in my opinion, make a mistake, and say so, I get attacked and called a communist. To me, it is not about Obama and Bush. It is what I believe. If I thought Bush was wrong, I sais so. It seems to me, the "crowd" on First Thought does not think for themselves, they just like the President and have blinders on.

"We have been seriously delayed because of a lack of leadership, and I hope one day we can find that leadership."
Ann Baker

Reality - there will be no leadership coming from this regime. 0bama voted present on Libya until the UN told him what we should do.

Tony, I like your style and admire that you don't toe the party line. Anyone who calls you a communist is wrong. I have a daughter-in-law from the Soviet Union. Let them ask her where she rather live or what it's like to live under a communist regime.Maybe she could tell what really happens to the average citizen when the currency collapses. Thank you for your service.

What?! Did the comet already hit?

http://reinep.wordpress.com/2011/01/18/comet-elenin-could-hit-earth/

I must have been out of the room adjusting my brackets.

Huh??

Steve,

Your Republican -Tea People must feel good to see your party’s attempts at taking rights away from the working class with the poor and middle being on the chopping block.

Taking rights away from workers?

Since when is wanting the theft of the taxpayers with sweetheart deals with politicians by unions stopped taking rights away from workers?

In any other industry that's racketeering and fraud ... put union in front of it and all of a sudden its legal?!?!

Get off the public nipple already.

Your stupidity is showng once again. There is a difference, collective bargainng is not a right.

The RECALLS are under way. Let Walker and his gang get off of the corporate nipple.

sweetheart deals with politicians by unions

Sort of like sweetheart deals between governors and billionaire industrialists, but with a lot less money involved. Let the Walker gang get off BOTH the public AND the corporate nipple. I wonder how they would fare if THEY had to fend for themselves. Hopefully, in just a few months, we'll get a chance to see.

Tony C:

Your stupidity is showng once again. There is a difference, collective bargainng is not a right.

Don't make me laugh, Tony C. You've already proven many times that you're not qualified to call someone else stupid.

You see, Tony C, whenever Congress or the states pass a law giving someone "rights," then they have "rights." Like if they took "civil rights" away, which are granted by the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and various other state and federal laws. Or family and medical leave "rights," which are granted by state and federal statute. Or the "right" to work in a safe environment, which is granted by the Occupational Safety and Health Act. Or the "right" to make a minimum wage, or the "right" to overtime, which are all "rights" which are granted by the Fair Labor Standards Act, or similar state laws. Or the "right" not to be required to take a polygraph test, which is granted by the Electronic Polygraph Protection Act, and its state law counterparts, or the "right" not to have your confidential medical information spread all over the universe, which is granted by the Americans with Disabilities Act, or the Genetic Information Non-Discrimination Act, or HIPAA, or various state laws protecting the confidentiality of medical information. I could go on, but the average person has already gotten the point.

Which, for your benefit, Tony C, is: RIGHTS are very often mere creatures of statute, and not necessarily granted by God, or even the Constitution. So, in fact, you're wrong about collective bargaining "rights," and you should apologize to Job 1 for displaying your own stupidity -- once again.

OK Tony, we'll just call it part of the Conservative effort to overturn 80 years of settled law and return us to the days of the Robber Barons.

Feel better?

Anna Molly

GREAT Post.

Recalls are under way for some of the running 14 libs as well. None of them will succeed on either side.

black_belt3:

Recalls are under way for some of the running 14 libs as well. None of them will succeed on either side.

See, that's the thing about facts, black_belt -- you don't necessarily want them to get in the way of your personal delusions.

Like for example, the FACT that democrats are about halfway already to getting the signatures necessary to recall the republicans they've targeted (in well under half the time allowed)

http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/plum-line/post/nearly-half-of-signatures-collected-to-recall-wisconsin-gop-state-senators-dems-say/2011/03/03/ABhVvQV_blog.html

Or the FACT that, republican efforts to recall democrats, on the other hand, are dying for a lack of enthusiasm, with five out of the eight already abandoned.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/03/16/conservatives-we-are-bein_n_836794.html

So, I guess that this makes you about half right, anyway. But what do you suppose would explain the lack of enthusiasm among republicans?

Do you suppose it's that Governor Walker was really WRONG all along as to how Wisconsin voters would react to this? Do you suppose it's that he draws his marching orders largely from his out-of-state corporate paymasters, who also were WRONG as to how Wisconsin voters would react?

And do you suppose, based on all those nasty, inconvenient facts, that it's possible that YOU might also be WRONG?

And thanks again, to that "traffic judge" for issuing the injunction giving those recalls time to work.

We have plenty of money; just not enough parents who will take responsibility for their amoral, undisciplined spawns.

No, see, that just wouldn't be "proportionate," you communist sympathizer, you.

Instead, the flat tax is SO MUCH more fair. If you're going to raise taxes by 20 percent on the person who makes $5 million a year, you'd better raise it 20 percent on the person who makes $50,000 a year as well.

Otherwise, those poor rich people will feel oppressed. And, having more money, their right to whine is greater than the rights of poor people.

We don't have an income tax problem - we have a spending problem. Double spending for many programs to be more precise. Cut out those expenditures and have the GAO look for duplicate agencies thoughout the entire govt and we will find more hundreds of billions of waste. The top 10% of the tax payers already pay 70% of the taxes. Don't you think that is enough - particularly when so much of it is wasted.

Well bb3, the folks who pay 70% of federal income tax (and it's federal income tax, they pay a considerably smaller share of "the taxes) control 85% of wealth. Sounds undertaxed to me.

But let's just say you're right...what do you propose cutting and by how much to balance the budget?

The top 10% of the tax payers already pay 70% of the taxes. Don't you think that is enough - particularly when so much of it is wasted.

Not when they have, I believe, more than 90 percent of the wealth. All in proportion, doncha know.

Or does proportionality apply only when it's in the wealthy class's favor?

The top 10% paid 65% in 2001 and its up to 70% in 2008 - the last year I have the numbers for. Owning 85% of the wealth is not surprising-you are comparing the top earners to college students and part time workers so you aren't going to get a 1 for 1 relationship. Also the wealthy make money on investments and save over multiple years. The bottom payers spend all they have to get along. I don't know that I buy your (they pay a considerably smaller share of the taxes) which taxes do they pay less on?? I believe the top 10% don't pay 70% of the cigarette or alcohol tax because those are consumption taxes - same for gasoline. I will stick with my position that the top 10% paying 70% of Federal taxes is enough.

What would I cut - I would start by going back to the 2008 budget levels which was agreed upon by Reid, Pelosi and Bush (bi-partisan) even though I think that is to high. I would use the GAO report on the small %%% that they investigated and cut those hundreds of billions and I would have the GAO go through the entire 2008 budget looking for similar programs that were duplicated. At that point you look at where you are at and start cutting every dept including defense, SS and Medicare. I would implement the Swiss HC system and get rid of 0bamacare. I would go back to the Clinton era tax rates which will raise taxes an everyone and will raise $4 trillion over 10 years. Don't know if I am balanced yet but I am a lot closer than when we started.

Well bb3, that sounds like a reasonable approach that's a step in the right direction. I don't know if that fully balances either, but we're in agreement on some important points; 1) The ENTIRE budget will need at least an examination to see where we can cut while causing the least negative effects on the nation. Duplicate programs and programs that are in opposition to each other are especially suspect. As examples we pay farmers to grow tobacco while funding programs to discourage the use of tobacco and we have programs that promote additional eating of cheese while also funding nutritional education programs that tell us to eat less cheese. 2) That specifically includes things that are mostly considered sacred cows such as Defense. Notice I've mentioned 2 different agricultural programs as well, and I'm from a farm state. 3) Spending cuts AND revenue increases will be necessary to make the budget balance. We're that far out of whack.

You and I aren't going to agree on everything, but most people in the real world agree way more often than the political conversation would lead you to believe.

My wife's family grows corn in central Illinois and I agree with getting rid of farm subsidies - they are doing very well right now since the price of corn has doubled in the last year. My late father was in the military and my Uncle is a retired General and both of them would be the first to tell you of waste in the defense dept. Defense budget can be cut a lot without reducing security 1 bit.

We have to look at everything - all sacred cows etc. I don't think my idea's are that radical but I also don't think they will go far enough to balance the budget - maybe after 10 years it would.

I agree that most of us agree on more than we disagree on.

Headed out to stimulate the economy - have a good evening.

People work in the public sector for exactly the same reason you do, to get a paycheck to live. maybe these days most politicians are wealthy so they don't need it but of course, they are the only ones being exempt from having these cuts! My husband is a forensic scientist. He spends his days in a laboratory testing evidence that may help convict a person dangerous to society. Last week he testified and helped to convict someone of murder. He helped society more than what are businesses have been lately. He is highly educated and intelligent and is NOT in a union but somehow people like you think he should have his pay cut and benefits taken while the wealthy profit from these politicians they got elected! It is ridiculous that you think that people in the public sector should somehow work out of the goodness of their hearts instead of getting a middle class income that is somewhat comparative to the private sector jobs that have equal education requirements and job responsibilities. Studies have shown that when you compare apples to apples that public workers on average make LESS (including benefits) then private workers with their same education levels. The only ones that do better are those in the public sector that do not have college degrees. That is fact. So now after having no pay raises in 5 years and having to contribute more to health and retirement you think it is just to strip even more money from middle class workers because they are public workers? My husband performs an important job that helps our society, as do teachers and police.etc. but you discount this because the private sector pays for the services through taxes? You know we pay taxes too, right?

Great post, jjdcc---it is so awful that people like your husband are called "bottom feeders" and worse when they do such important work.

feedback plz :)

Simply put, you know not whereof you speak. If you don't think that the tax money public workers make recycles back into the private sector, where people LIKE YOU make a buck on it AND get the money to pay YOUR OWN TAXES, then you have no idea how an economy works. Which is pretty obvious from the rest of your post. Who do you think gets money when a public sector employee buys a house? Who gets money when a public sector employee buys groceries? Who gets money when a public sector employee buys a car?

And what would happen if all that money suddenly disappeared out the economy?

Which it is about to do here in Wisconsin. The economic hit to the Wisconsin economy from the recent actions of our governor is calculated to be hundreds of millions of dollars. That will, in turn, reduce tax revenue that is collected by the state, which will in turn make the deficit problem worse.

Thus, these proposals make no practical sense.

In addition, your argument makes no sense on a human level. What gives you the idea that public service is somehow less worthy than working the public sector, say at McDonalds or at Walmart? Under what theory should public sector workers inherently make less than private sector employees? Work is work, and value for work is value for work.

jjdcc is right about why people work in the public sector. They do it for a paycheck, just like everyone else. They sure as Hades do NOT do it for the love, which is sorely lacking these days. If you really believe that public workers should do it for love of country, rather than for money, then at least you should appreciate them, instead of the constant denigration and villification that I see, including yours. What nobility do you suppose people feel when they are constantly being labeled lazy, free-loading slackers, whose work is not as valuable -- according to you, apparently -- as that of a kiosk employee at the local mall selling cheap watches imported from China?

If your boss called you names every day all day and told you how unworthy you are, how long do you think you would stay in your private-sector job?

Get over yourself, Master "Taxpayer." Public sector workers are NOT your slaves.

jjdc, thanks for putting a face on the people Conservatives are attacking. You're our neighbors, our friends, our family. The Conservative movement is attacking people just like US.

And Anna Molly, fantastic follow up.

Too funny. Let me tell you, this may come as a shock. Your rant has zero meaning. Collective bargaining is not a right. Not surprised you think that. Some liberal judge who believes in "making law" may agree with you. But, that arguement hasn't held up and it won't. You may not even know what you were quoting. Too funny.

Tony C--"I disregard your argument because it disagrees with my views. As such nothing you say has meaning."

Remember, Conservatism isn't about consistency of thought, or ethics, or even facts. It's about coming up with an argument to sell whatever idea you happen to want to push at the moment.

Do you believe in a Muslim country that a woman has equal rights with her male counterparts? There are crazy people that kill for no reason. However, they don't learn their trade in a house of worship. See the difference? Have you ever seen a church full of weapons?

If the US gets involved militarily with Libya without leaving Iraq or Afghanistan, I will consider anyone following orders to go to Libya to be a traitor.

Man.... REALLY? So the servicemembers who recieve ORDERS (unlike you where you can QUIT your job if you don't like what your boss tells you to do) to go to Libya, in your book, is a traitor? Where do you come up with this stuff? I mean really.... You must have never served a day in the military..... maybe you should go join your friends from the Westboro Baptist Church.