The slow-bama recovery continues to limp along.

Another jobs report with less new jobs than are required to stay even with population growth. Pathetic.

The unemployment rate ticked down 0.1%, but, that was due to people giving up looking for work due to the dismal slow-bama recovery more than two years after the recession officially ended in June 2009.

And Ben Bernanke’s statement that unemployment will remain high through at least 2014 also confirms the dismal state of the slow-bama recovery.

If the lefty liberals want a European-style socialist country for America, then they need to get used to the accompanying slow growth and high unemployment.

Yeah, yeah, I already know it’s all GWB and the Republican’s fault. Let’s see if the American people are buying that standard lefty liberal BS line next November. Remember, you can fool some of the people….

Economy Wobbles to 80,000 New Jobs, Rate Slips to 9%

Posted By: Jeff Cox | CNBC.com Senior Writer

CNBC.com

| 04 Nov 2011 | 08:33 AM ET

The U.S. jobs market remained stuck in neutral during October, with the economy creating just 80,000 new jobs as the stubbornly high unemployment rate nudged lower.

Amid few expectations that the employment picture has improved, government numbers Friday confirmed the obvious: The unemployment rate is stuck at 9.0 percent where it likely will be for many months to come.

Still, that was one-tenth of a percent lower than September's rate. The number has vacillated as the labor participation rate has varied.

The total job creation was a bit lower than the 100,000 that economists had expected.

The report comes just days after the Federal Reserve delivered its own body blow, saying the unemployment rate will go no lower than 8.5 percent to 8.7 percent by the end of 2012 and will remain in the 6.8 percent to 7.7 percent through 2014.

Who Do You Trust?

Apparently 99 % of Americans don't trust wealthy bankers. After all, why should they, as it was the greedy bankers whose lending practices created the turmoil in the housing market.

Most Americans don't trust huge oil companies who made a billion-dollar profit while gas prices hover around $3.40 per gallon. The exception is Republican congressmen who trust that BP and other oil giants will line their campaign war-chest with large donations.

Both the House and Senate have an approval rating below 10 %. Neither can be trusted to put America first. The Senate voted down an infrastructure bill that would repair roads and bridges as well as put Americans back to work. Our elected officials have not earned our trust.

The Tea Party does not trust Mitt Romney as he is viewed as a man with absolutely no core values. Romney flip-flops like a fish out of water and will say anything to get a vote.

Rick Perry has reportedly leaked the story that created the Herman Cain scandal. Forget the Republican 11th commandment that one does not speak harshly against a fellow Republican. Rick has played his hand and there is nothing there except Texas jokers.

The Tea Party wanted to believe that Herman Cain was their conservative answer. But he apparently has a history of harassing women…three so far. Harassing one woman could be attributed to poor judgment; two means he didn't learn his lesson. Three is called a PATTERN. Not only is Cain ignorant of the workings of government and foreign affairs, he fails the character test on telling the truth and blurring the lines between right and wrong.

There are a lot of politicians and wealthy CEO's that are not trustworthy, so where do we find people who are willing to put middle class Americans first? Actually they are all around us. They are called the American voters and I expect them to show up next November. The OWS protesters have become a movement and they should not be underestimated.

The Wrecking Crew

Deadbeat Congressman spend more time wrecking this economy than creating J-O-B-S for their constituents

The wrecker's ball is busy at work on the Republican/ Tea Nut side of the aisle in Congress.

These hypocrites brought the nation to the brink of default over spending, but a Newsweek investigation shows Tea Party lawmakers grabbing billions from the government trough. Plus, view the letters submitted by the 'Dirty Dozen.'

http://www.thedailybeast.com/newsweek/2011/10/30/conseratives-brought-nation-to-default-ask-for-govt-handouts.html

http://www.thedailybeast.com/newsweek/2011/10/30/fiscal-conservatives-with-a-taste-for-pork.html%20.html

Does this not prove these hypocritical, greedy, republican/ tea nuts are feeding at the pig trough.

Remember this?

One Year after GOP’s Landslide Election, The grim weeper John Boehner seized the speaker’s gavel on January 5, said that although there’s “a long way to go,” the Republican majority has “changed the focus here in Washington” with a House that is “more open and transparent” than previous majorities, by focusing on creating a better environment for job creation.

Well the republicans have created zero, nada, zilch jobs. How many times must I post the link below:

http://whenarethejobs.com/

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Instead of J-0-B-S we get 15 BILLS (slave labor and share cropping) from the hypocritical, greedy, republican/ tea nuts masqueraded as a way to create J-O-B-S.

Let the hypocritical, greedy, republican/ tea nuts pass J-O-B-S bills instead of talking about J-0-B-S

Come on, Feisty, lay off our pal Herman Cain, will you?

After all, he said we would find nothing in his closet, and that turned out to be the naked truth.

......

As for the Solyndra subpoenas, I wonder how conservatives are loving that old "executive privilege" argument now.

Hannity: Any flirtation that you can think of?
Cain: Nope, nope.

Yeah okay... and the Pants on Fire Award goes to...

Aw, look Fiesty was thinking about me.

Kinda odd, especially given that she always says she has me on 'ignore'. It's ok Feisty, we both know that a silly little lie.

Hey gang did you all catch those 'swing state' poll numbers on Chuck's show this morning? Holy Crap Batman - more than 60% of the swing staters feel they are worse off now than 4 years ago. In those states his approval ratings are 5% below national averages.

And this from USA Today. Unlike this weeks Quinnapiac Poll with some how weighted dems plus 10 over reps.

And of course you all know what this means?

Landslide.

Happy Friday, ABO.

And Feisty thanks for the marketing shout out. You W-2 employees [wage slaves] might not understand this, but marketing is the hardest part of any business.

Hard left and hard right-wingers: Hurl your venom! Lob your insults and your "My side is better than your side" grenades. I refuse to be even a trifle irritated by your standard nonsense. You see, I'm eating Government Guacamole. It is not possible to be irritated when you are slathering chips with this ambrosia-like green stuff.

Yes, this morning I made guacamole for some of our friends, and believe it or not, I made too much. We were forced to keep some at home. Waste not, want not. Besides it is the very best guacamole in the world. That's right, Dave's Government Guacamole is the best guacamole in the entire world.

I know, I know, you just can't believe this is possible. "How," you ask, "Can you make guacamole in Kansas? There are no avocado trees there!" Right you are, my observant friends. Obviously, I cannot share the entire recipe with you as it has the highest security classification in the country - "GG-Top Secret".

However, I can give you some insight. The avocados came from California via the socialist Interstate Highway system. They were irrigated with water from government-built dams delivered via socialist aqueducts. (I probably don't have to tell you this, but you must use California avocados. Florida avocados are simply awful.) However, the limes come from that state, also via the Interstate. The onions and garlic came from other places. I grew the tomatoes and cilantro, and I've already divulged too much. I will tell you though that I added a dollop (a metric dollop) of sour cream. (You must promise to forget you know about this very secret ingredient.) Anyway, that came from cows that were fed government-subsidized grain. The sour cream was inspected by government inspectors.

Anyway, I mixed all this stuff up and put it together. I cut a lot of it up with American-made cutlery that came from steel mills using coal that was shipped via trains on a rail system largely encouraged and subsidized by the government. Of course, I needed an electric mixer which is powered by electricity which is delivered by power lines installed by the Rural Electrification Agency many years ago. (I live in a fairly isolated place.)

Thank the stars for the Internet, which is pretty much a government-sponsored tool. I use that for learning about sales and of course, we get local ads thanks to the United States Postal Service. The post office is right there in the Constitution. Who knew? (It was Ben Franklin himself who observed, "No mail, no guacamole!")

As for me, I am moved to observe, "No government, no guacamole!" I mean, without it, most of the posts here would really irritate me.

Romney moves to the right, adopting the failed Milton Friedman economic ideology:

Mitt Romney unveiled his most detailed spending policy to date, promising to slash government spending by $500 billion in his first term by cutting federal spending like Amtrak, reducing foreign aid, and reorganizing federal government programs to the state-level.

By far the most significant point of those is the one about moving Federal programs to the states.

First, by doing so, all Romney does is shift the burden. It is a cynical proposal, of course - many states will simply abandon those programs entirely, which is one of the objectives of the right wing.

Second, it is a step toward dissolving the Union. That also is an objective of the right wing, to virtually eliminate the Federal government and turn the country into a loose confederation, instead - or possibly, into a batch of separate nations. Texas would almost certainly bolt if it got the chance.

The Presidential oath of office is based on a simple phrase, "to uphold and defend the Constitution of the United States." Mitt Romney, should he ever swear that oath, has already promised he'll be forewsworn even as he speaks it.

FR: *** Corzine resigns: Jon Corzine’s announced resignation from MF Global is an embarrassing end to a onetime rising political star.

Obama's "Man on Wall Street".

Obama held his first New York fundraiser for the reelection campaign at Corzine’s home on Fifth Avenue in Manhattan, overlooking Central Park. Guests gave the maximum $35,800 donation to Obama and the DNC.

Obama’s links to financial companies don’t end with MF Global. The president has raised $15.6 million from the financial industry for his reelection effort and the DNC, according to a Washington Post analysis.

Source: http://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/mf-global-ties-awkward-for-obama-campaign/2011/11/02/gIQA9w5ogM_print.html

So how does Obama square this with the Occupy Loons of which he's "behind their cause"? Obama is the biggest taker of Wall Street money than any other politician, and somehow he's telling everyone he's 99%-er? We know Obama is a hypocrite, now we also know he's an absolute joke.

Now off to your fund raisers and campaigning Barry. It's what you do best, and you've got some fund raising ground to make up with your good friend Mr. Corzine needing to spend some quality time with the FBI.

Riddle me this: exactly what is it that Herman Cain is supposed to have done? I'm having a hard time figuring that out. All I can see is anonymous voices from the shadows, voices making unsubstantiated allegations that are amplified by a media culture that just drools over any sex and politics story they get to write about. In fact, what little we actually do know is that whatever may have happened does not seem to have led to the filing of an EEOC complaint or a lawsuit.

So, whatever may have happened didn't rise to that level. Instead, what we have are vague allegations that Cain made some women "uncomfortable" or engaged in "flirty banter" and the media is running with that to smear a man who aspires to be president. Heck, when Bill Clinton was having his problems several women came forward to put the sordid details of their side of the story on the record. But the only record we have at this point in the Cain matter is puffs of smoke. Smoke fanned by a news media that could care less about fundamental matters of propriety such as being innocent until proven guilty.

But while the news media gets a big thumbs down in this episode, in my view the Cain campaign doesn't fare much better. Good grief, these people apparently had a ten day advance notice this story was going to break but you sure couldn't tell from their inept response. To say that Cain's version of events has "evolved" would be a kind way to characterize his remarks. And a candidate who touts himself as a non-politician loses some of that luster as he strains to parse the difference between an "agreement" and a "settlement." Then there's this Smoking Man guy who is supposedly Cain's chief of staff. Did any of you see him being interviewed by Bret Bair a few days ago? The guy was awkward, obviously nervous, and repeatedly referred to written notes as he was answering questions. He's also the guy who accused an operative in the Perry campaign as being the source for the story, but then had to walk that back the next day.

Add into the mix Cain's numerous gaffes on foreign policy issues and the picture we get is a candidate and team who aren't ready for prime time. Not even close. I would have preferred that Republican primary voters eventually come to that conclusion on their own rather than be encouraged by a less than impartial news media. Indeed, Cain's support may have strengthened in recent days as backlash against the media, but this too shall pass. Ultimately, Cain will drop out of the race when it becomes apparent he can't win. That would be a good thing for the Republican party. But he will re-enter private life licking the wounds inflicted by an irresponsible news media that sought to destroy him. And that would be a bad thing -- for all of us.

AM - I am a conservative and I will absolutely love it is Obama invokes the privilege.

1. can you just imagine the fantastic TEEVEE ad? Obama's own words on how Bush was a dirtbag for invoking; and

2. Gosh, I for one can't wait to hear what the national security interest was in Solyndra.

Golly, just how important was it to support that failed company?

AM - maybe you could advise use the basis of the executive privilege? Surely there is more than it just being asserted willy nilly by the Pres.?

As for the Solyndra subpoenas, I wonder how conservatives are loving that old "executive privilege" argument now.

__________________________________________________

As Micky D's commercial goes "I'm love'n it".

The more things are promised to "change", the more they stay the same.

I "hope" Issa takes the WH to court on this one. They are hiding something.

Well said, John A. I'm not sure what accounts for Conservative tenacity in their work to destroy the ability and effectiveness of the federal government. Either they completely failed to study the failure of the Articles of Confederation or they're still trying to win the Civil War for the South.

Either way it's yet another example of Conservative refusal to admit what works and what doesn't.

Bill, Fairfax: Riddle me this: exactly what is it that Herman Cain is supposed to have done?

What ever innuendo, falsehoods, exaggerations, tales, fibs, half truths, and misnomers, the media can cook up.

Not one, I repeat not one of these Radical Right Republicans will ever be elected as the President of the United States.

Well, things are looking better. Unemployment is going down, our Presidents approval ratings are on the rise and our good friends the GOP/TPOTTY clowns are self imploding. I love it.

And again our Repug Congress voted against the will of the people on job creation. Are they so stupid that they don't know their actions are only driving the Nations voters away from their Party?

I guess so.

Bill, Fairfax VA

Riddle me this: exactly what is it that Herman Cain is supposed to have done?

OK, you win. Cain is the victim of a liberal media conspiracy. Make sure you vote for him in the primaries just to show the media that they can't confuse you with the facts. And President Obama will certainly be shaking in his boots at the prospect of facing a formidable challenger like Cain.

Really? who is denying there was a settlement paid to at least two women in exchange for leaving their jobs and not talking about it? First he doesn't even remember the women--then he vaguely remembers but it must have been innocent...then denies there was any payout in the organization HE headed....Yes, yes, nothing to see here ...everyone move along...just more women being ya know, women...(aided by the vast media conspiracy that just won't stop asking those pesky questions...)

Feisty, Ron, Bev, David ....

What a grand collation of commentary. I must admit, that although I have never cared for guacamole (and I used to have avocado trees in the backyard in S. Ca.) David's verison was a metaphorical tasty treat.

Bev, you are dead on about The Wrecking Crew. Thei only objective is to tear down, not build up, the American nation. That's why the 2012 election is such a clear-cut choice - go to the hard right and begin dismantling the United States (or, rather, continue with the work they began 30 years ago), or stick together to build up and estore a great nation.

Feisty, your comments about The Popover Candidate, Herman Cain, are absolutely correct. And fortunately, Anna Molly, I was between cups of coffee when I saw your "naked truth" remark. Gad, that was good!

Ron, thanks for keeping us on track regarding the OWS movement and the general public's view of the money moguls. It is time, and past time, to emulate the captains of the Royal Navy of 1700 and go hunting for pirates in pinstripes.

The tea people GOP republicans are so scared of the improving economy their taking good news on the economy and trying to turn it into bad news. It's not great news but any news that shows the economy improving even a little bit is bad news for the tea people GOP republicans. Their destroy America to win the white house plan is falling apart right before their eyes.

When I was a little kid, I found a cigarette lying in the road, took it home and tried to smoke it in my room. Well, it was disgusting, so I stamped it out on my dresser and threw it in the waste basket. Later, my Dad came in my room and asked me if I'd been smoking. I flat out denied it. He pointed to the burn marks on the dresser and the butt in the waste basket, and waved his hand at the smell of smoke that still lingered, and I still denied it. I don't know why, I just couldn't admit what I'd done, maybe because even I realized how stupid it was. (Thank goodness my Dad wasn't a judge, like that belt-wielding psycho in the news. My Dad just told me there was no need to lie.) I wonder if Cain is flat out denying he harassed those women because he can't believe he was so stupid..

So they cut a $45,000 check and then handed it to a fabrication.

I can see why you have a hard time with marketing Spanky, I thought we were working on your people person skills, calling everybody that is not the owner of their own business a "wage slave" is not a good way to market your party or cause, in fact it just tends to promote things like OWS and unions.

So whats your guess on the Cain thing, do you think this is a case of "hostile environment" or "Quid pro Quo" type sexual harrassment.

Bev -

You are ALWAYS on top of stuff! That Fox poll is very revealing. Thanks so much for sharing it.

Bill, Fairfax:

Riddle me this: exactly what is it that Herman Cain is supposed to have done? I'm having a hard time figuring that out. All I can see is anonymous voices from the shadows, voices making unsubstantiated allegations that are amplified by a media culture that just drools over any sex and politics story they get to write about. In fact, what little we actually do know is that whatever may have happened does not seem to have led to the filing of an EEOC complaint or a lawsuit.

So happy to oblige. No charges or lawsuits were filed because the internal complaints were evidently settled. No big surprise, and no indication of whether the complaints had merit.

If you only knew how common this is.

http://www.cnn.com/2011/11/04/politics/cain-allegations/index.html?hpt=hp_t2

This article pretty much lays out what has been alleged, as far as it's known publicly right now. About half dozen or so women now say he made inappropriate comments to them, including at least one -- one of the two NRA employees who settled -- that amounted to a proposition. In addition, a couple of people -- men -- have come forward to say that they have observed Cain engaging in inappropriate conduct toward women, and that it happened in other settings besides the National Restaurant Association.

I heard on Hardball last night that it is pretty widely known in campaign circles that Cain is a little over-the-top in his behavior towards women on a general basis.

Okay. I'll accept comments comparing Cain to Bill Clinton in 3 ... 2 ... 1... and then remind conservatives that you thought Clinton should be impeached.

Why then, would we consciously wish to elect someone else just like that?

On a personal level, I was interested in this --

The candidate told HLN's Robin Meade on Tuesday that the agreement provided one of his accusers "in the vicinity of three to six months' severance pay." The payment was "not outside our guidelines for what most people get ... when they leave the Restaurant Association involuntarily," he said.

His numbers are, of course, incorrect. As noted earlier in the article, each of the women each appears to have received approximately one year's salary.

And why, if nothing happened, did the women leave "involuntarily"?

Albany Joe:

I "hope" Issa takes the WH to court on this one. They are hiding something.

LoL You think?

Spanky:

2. Gosh, I for one can't wait to hear what the national security interest was in Solyndra.

Just off the top of my head, I don't think national security is always a requirement for executive privilege to attach, although its use there is probably most justifiable.

Just ask Dick Cheney, who used it to shield the names and content of conversations held with third parties -- i.e., private sector oil company executives -- outside the government executive umbrella.

But I'm glad to hear you guys both like the mattress because your side made the bed.

Yeah -9.0% unemployment.

Wait, hold the phone.

I was assured by Obama that 2009 was 'Recovery Summer'. I was also assured that 2010 was 'Recovery Summer'.

Oh then there was the if we passed the $800 Billion Stimulus unemployment would not go above 8%.

So, umm, what's up with this guy? You all think this might be why Jimmy Fallon said last night that Obama going to Europe to give them economic advice is like JLO getting marriage advice from Kim Kardasian?

Plus you got to love that Corzine was Obama's guy.

Not too many great ads in that comment and the photos of the two together.

"We have been declared war upon. We are the enemy of the state, but who better than us? We're taking 53 men to the apocalypse and we ain't bringing flowers."

Words of wisdom (?) from fearsome Ravens LB Terrell Suggs speaking about going to Pittsburgh this week to play the hated Steelers. Gotta luv the thought, if not the questionable grammer. And gotta luv the fact that this is a big game, a meaningful game for both teams the whole country will be watching. Win or lose, it's always a treat to be playing meaningful games. Unlike some teams whose season has already lost meaning...umm, like the Colts. Sorry Ron, better luck next year.

AM: As for the Solyndra subpoenas, I wonder how conservatives are loving that old "executive privilege" argument now.

That would precious if Obama did so. Doing so would be him admitting that he has personal knowledge of the loans going to these campaign fund fencing operations of his.

And on what grounds would he claim this "executive privilege"? Just how would taxpayer funded venture capitalism be some sort of national security issue? It will be fun watching Barry explain that one.

Joe in Albany

The slow-bama recovery continues to limp along.

Another jobs report with less new jobs than are required to stay even with population growth. Pathetic.

Can we stop calling them "Job Creators" then? You know, because, obviously, they're not!

That's why we need the women to speak out. But Herman bought their silence. He didn't just pay them to go away. He bought their silence....Since he's unwilling to allow them to defend themselves against his charges now that they were all incompetent and deserved to be fired, the only question that remains is....did Herman pay them enough?......

John A.-400474

Second, it is a step toward dissolving the Union. That also is an objective of the right wing, to virtually eliminate the Federal government and turn the country into a loose confederation, instead - or possibly, into a batch of separate nations. Texas would almost certainly bolt if it got the chance

John A

You are so correct

I've said the Tea bagging Republicans want a divided nation.

what I don't understand is since they don't want to pay taxes, why don't they just G-T-H-O of America and by them a land so they won't have to pay taxes?

Ah, Forrest where's the sense of humor this fine Friday morning?

And in all seriousness - you think my clients are worker bees? Marketing is the key to all business. Fortunately for most, it is not their concern.

I have no guess on Cain, as we have almost no facts. I told you yesterday, as echoed by AM this morning - the existence of a settlement means nothing. Not liability, not fault, not anything.

Having said that I want this issue determined before nomination.

Good thing we got so much time, right gang?

All part of the process.

I more interested in the happenings in Europe. It is going down. That will be very bad for all of us.

AM: This article pretty much lays out what has been alleged,

You're speculating, just like the newsies are.

CNN and MSNBC have become The View - Poorly sourced gossipers yakking about things they don't know anything about. Kind of like you AM.

Bev -

You are ALWAYS on top of stuff! That Fox poll is very revealing. Thanks so much for sharing it.

Thank you John A, My contention is the dunces over @ FEAR FACTOR CHANNELL aka FOX NOISE is the dunces did have time to severe the order. I'll share these goodies each time I find one.

I think we will hear statements from them, Cain will probably insure that by his silly remarks, he may have already breached the confidentially agreement, in any event the more he talks about it the more ridiculus he sounds.

Well at least we had "In God We Trust" reaffirmed as out motto

-and good thing too cause I hear the Sharia Law crowd wanted it for themselves

JoAnnaSmith1

And on what grounds would he claim this "executive privilege"? Just how would taxpayer funded venture capitalism be some sort of national security issue? It will be fun watching Barry explain that one.

Maybe the Republican inquisitors should ask G. Dumbya Bush to explain that one, too, Bush began the Solyndra loan approval process two years before Obama took office and the Bush administration nearly completed the process by the time Obama came in.

http://cleantechnica.com/2011/09/15/solyndra-advanced-by-bush-for-2-years-solyndra-timeline/

Of course, they're not interested in anything Bush did because the hearings are merely a political witch hunt.

Da Noid - good luck getting GOP/TP conservatives to recant that claim. A recent report was published that showed 30 of 280 corporations paid no taxes last year, with one even having a tax liability of -57%. Mind you, we are talking -57% on billions of dollars. That is one fat cat refund. But regardless, the GOP/TP still want to lower taxes for these "job creators". Apparently, so goes their thinking, if we get their tax liability to -100%, perhaps, just perhaps, they will create ONE job, vs. pocketing all the money.

http://ctj.org/ctjreports/2011/11/corporate_taxpayers_corporate_tax_dodgers_2008-2010.php

Amy -

Most of us have some similar story of a childhood fib, artlessly delivered and relentlessly revealed, but you told yours quite well, and applied it effectively to the purpose.

The discussion here in general about Herman Cain might be expanded a tad.

Skip, Oklahoma, yesterday wrote a good piece about the EEOC sexual harassment procedures, which he detailed based on his own work in that very field. However, it doesn't appear that any of these complaints ever made it to the EEOC level. Cain himself told an interviewer some days ago that at least one complaint (and probably any that were made) was investigated by the association's human relations department and corporate attorney.

That is standard business practice unless the complainant has aleady registered a complaint with a state or federal agency.

Typically, confidential discussions are held with other company employees as well as the complainant - often, the subject of the compaint, the accused, is entirely unaware of the investigation.

If the accuser(s) are found to be demonstrably lying, or inflating some non-harassing incident into that which it was not (aka, making a mountain out of a molehill), the result is usually termination of the complainant. And termination is then made "with prejudice," meaning little or no severance pay, denial of such benefits as stock options, and disqualification for re-hiring.

However, should the accusation(s) seem to hold substance, then the company faces different choices. One is to discharge the offending person, the one who did or may reasonably be suspected of harassing the employee. As this may result in lawsuit, that step is not taken lightly. At the very minimum, if the offender stays in his or her job, there normally will be required training and counseling and perhaps other penalties. There is no evidence that the association ever took those steps with Herman Cain.

Another path, which apparently the association chose, is to offer the accusers a financial settlement, possibly changes in job assignment and perhaps either a promotion or pay increase, and possibly outplacement assistance if the accusers find remaining in that workplace undesirable.

And naturally the ultimate path is fending off a lawsuit.

Although it is not unheard-of for companies to offer "nuisance" harrassment claim settlements, the amounts of those settlements are relatively small, and even then follows an investigation internally.

The conclusion in this situation is relatively straightforward:

A. In at least one matter, and possibly more, the association found that there was at least enough evidence and support for the sexual harrassment claim that it was willing to pay a year's salary to one woman who chose not to remain in the organization's employ. She was not fired. Herman Cain lied about this.

B. By law Herman Cain had to be fully informed of the investigation's results and the outcome. He lied about that.

C. The association in essence participated in an attempted cover-up of the matter not only by demanding non-disclosure agreements from Herman Cain's victims, but also by not taking any apparent punitive or corrective actions against its highly-visible Chief Executive Officer. Herman Cain is still attempting a cover-up.

D. Herman Cain, on his merits as a presidential nomination candidate, is unfit for office (a matter of opinion, but one strongly supported by his lack of substance on issues). As a person to whom a nation and world might look for integrity, trustworthy leadership, and stable adherence to principles, Cain is by his behior in this matter shown he is unfit for office (not an opinion, but a demonstrated fact).

Spanky:

So, umm, what's up with this guy? You all think this might be why Jimmy Fallon said last night that Obama going to Europe to give them economic advice is like JLO getting marriage advice from Kim Kardasian?

Interesting, along those same lines ... I was listening to NPR yesterday, where they were saying that the Americans, including in particular Tim Geithner, but through him, President Obama, have been laying heavy pressure on Greece not to seek debt forgiveness from the banks and the hedge funds because writing down the Greek debt would crash the American economy.

You ought to admire that, Spanky.

But evidently, the Greeks don't like it much because it will mean AT LEAST 10 years of bitter austerity for them.

It will be interesting to see how all this turns out, and it's why my money stays under the mattress for the timebeing.

John A:

C. The association in essence participated in an attempted cover-up of the matter not only by demanding non-disclosure agreements from Herman Cain's victims, but also by not taking any apparent punitive or corrective actions against its highly-visible Chief Executive Officer. Herman Cain is still attempting a cover-up.

I'll take issue with the first part of this statement -- NDA's are almost always required for these kinds of settlements -- but not with the second.

It's evident that Cain did not learn a thing from those situations.

Once again, Spanky has given us the very best reason to ignore Spanky. The best reason to ignore Spanky is Spanky.

This ridiculous person has told us time and again he is an attorney. In that vein, let us remember Mr. 9-9-9 Cain has told us he's a mathematician.

Again, and again, and again, it has been shown to be absolutely true that NO ONE in the Obama Administration EVER said the unemployment rate would not go about 8%. That never happened.

Here's the truth - the absolute unvarnished, irrefutable truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. As President Obama and his team were preparing to assume office, they discovered the economy was in far worse shape than anyone had imagined. Indeed, we now know that the GDP was declining at better than a 7% rate before President Obama too office.

Two of his Economic Advisors - Christina Romer and Jared Bernstein prepared a report noting the need for an immediate stimulus. In this report, it was suggested that the unemployment rate might be kept at 8%. (Remember, the economy is in a virtual free-fall at this point.) In that report, Ms. Romer issued a very clear disclaimer that basically said - Of course, you must understand that such numbers are not carved in stone and every economist knows they can fluctuate wildly.

The now widely-circulated "bikini graph" shows us just how bad the economy really was. It is generally held that the stimulus worked, and that it would have worked better had it been larger.

Maybe all that is just too much for a pretend lawyer to understand, or maybe pretend lawyers just like to cause trouble. Either way, Spanky is all the reason you need to ignore Spanky.

Houston: Maybe the Republican inquisitors should ask G. Dumbya Bush to explain that one, too, Bush began the Solyndra loan approval process two years before Obama took office and the Bush administration nearly completed the process by the time Obama came in.

Good point Houston. Lets get all the cards on the table and everything in the open.

Can we stop calling them "Job Creators" then? You know, because, obviously, they're not!

___________________________________________

As long as you are referring to the Dem federal govt "Jobs" bills, be my guest.

Davey Walker: Again, and again, and again, it has been shown to be absolutely true that NO ONE in the Obama Administration EVER said the unemployment rate would not go about 8%. That never happened.

http://blogs.reuters.com/james-pethokoukis/2011/06/07/romer-bernstein-unemployment-chart-updated/

Ms. Romer and Mr. Bernstein were very much a part of the Obama Administration.

DW: Two of his Economic Advisors - Christina Romer and Jared Bernstein prepared a report noting the need for an immediate stimulus. In this report, it was suggested that the unemployment rate might be kept at 8%

Ahh, so now Obama's people "suggests" things, rather than "project" things. Nice little dodge.

And Obama campaigned on the economy being as bad as the Great Depression. So now Mr. Walker, you're trying to tell us that the economy we have is worse than the Great Depression? We need a little more proof on that one. Or is this just another "suggestion" from the Obama administration?

Well Spanky the vote in the senate on the jobs bill did not help my sense of humor, and I blew work off today to stay home and do what little I can for a very sick Mrs. Grump, so my humor game is probably off a little bit. I will say that "worker bees" is a notch better than "wage slaves" but I think you can still do a little better, how about something like "enablers of the bosses profit margin", or maybe just "profit producers".

If a settlement does not indicate guilt it sure as hell does not indicate innocence. I would think a decent lawyer could pick apart a totally frivolous claim for less than the $45,000 settlement and the added legal costs of the confidentiality agreements.

Obama is trying to get the country believe that a 9% unemployment rate is good! It is the new norm, the base by which his policies be justified. If the rate goes to 8.99% he will declare a major victory and perhaps declare a holiday..... free food stamps for all, whoopeee! lol, what a joke he is and like Bill Clinton mentioned in his book, BO has and is an embarrassment to the country! Only truck stop trolls believe he's doing anything good, eh carrot top?

Osama Bin Laden has now been officially declared dead!!!!! He is registered to vote in Detroit.

Okay. I'll accept comments comparing Cain to Bill Clinton in 3 ... 2 ... 1... and then remind conservatives that you thought Clinton should be impeached.

Bingo, Anna Molly! Sharp as tack, as always.

@ Amy 1.22 Most men at some point realize that they can be that stupid, they just desperately wish to prevent their wives from knowing that they are absolutely that stupid.

Wow, a virtual plethora of wisdom to end the week. My tiny monkey/lizard brain is just swimming with all this information and opinion. Ooooooweeeee.

David, save me some of that Guacamole. Great post, loved it.

Bev, FANTASTIC! It would seem when the GOP says "NO, my way or the highway" they are speaking directly to a majority of the American people and WE THE PEOPLE don't like it.

Boehner, you got some 'splainin to do.

And do we think the GOP will listen to WE THE PEOPLE? To quote the ever-self-righteous Herman Cain, "Nope".

Which means of course, we are right on course for an historic landslide victory for the President in 2012.

Keep it up GOP. Keep telling WE THE PEOPLE you know what's best for us. Keep trying to force your morality down our throats. Keep trying to get WE THE PEOPLE to finance your corporate masters obscene profits while the middle class dies. Just keep it, you are committing political suicide. You are out of step with the rest of the country and we are going to send a bunch of you jokers packing next fall. Buy-bye.

Ahhh, it's good to be the king, and I am the King of MY castle (a joint venture with my co-equal Queen of course, right dear?) and the Captain of my Destiny. Confusion to my enemies (and I'm looking at you ditto-head zombies out there). Have at you, knave!

Well, off to the liquor store to pick up another case of Newcastle Brown Ale for the weekend. Lots of football to watch, three dogs to play with and my lovely bride of 32+ years to enjoy it all with.

Vaya con Dios compadres, hasta luego!

Obama/Biden 2012

As noted earlier in the article, each of the women each appears to have received approximately one year's salary.

And why, if nothing happened, did the women leave "involuntarily"?

Not that I support Cain, but to play devil's advocate. Anna Molly If something DID happen why would the women want to stay?

Oh my - look at David Walker getting all sensitive over the "unemployment will not go above 8%" line.

Spin away, David, but those projections and statements came out of Obama's administration.

Look up Agency David. You will find that the principal [Obama] is held responsible for the acts and statements of the agents [Romer and the gang]

But don't fret about this little lie David, Obama and his crew have said so much which is now just absurd.

Like about transparency.

Like about executive privilege.

Now I know you are liking the Solyndra fun, which all goes directly to what he said about transparency and privilege. He refuses to release the documents, and is fighting the subpoena. He will invoke Executive Privilege to boot.

So I know you are going to love this all when Fast and Furious comes up. See David there we do have some national security issues.

We armed the Cartels who then used those very guns to murder. Oh, and we sent the guns to Mexico, but did tell them.

Yep David you can certainly ignore me, but you can't ignore the bad acts of Obama and his gang.

Presidentin' is hard.

David Walker:

Maybe all that is just too much for a pretend lawyer to understand, or maybe pretend lawyers just like to cause trouble. Either way, Spanky is all the reason you need to ignore Spanky.

LoL Trust me, David. As a REAL lawyer, I hear you.

But Spanky's kind of like an addiction, you know?

And that's the reason I would never put him on ignore.

Kind of like JoAnna, but in her case, I made an exception.

1SGFitzWife4ID:

Not that I support Cain, but to play devil's advocate. Anna Molly If something DID happen why would the women want to stay?

Exactly. And the fact that they felt compelled to leave is what made their claims worth so much.

Amy, There was much much more evidence in Billy Clinton's situation.... including dresses, cigars, Oval Office records, a paid intern, and depositions from many other lady 'friends' of Billy's, that are x rated! Cain's evidence couldn't get off the Saturday morning cartoons! I wonder why the left is making such a big deal out of it.......... hmmmm!

SgtFitzswife -

See the post at http://firstread.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2011/11/04/8633368-first-thoughts-what-a-wild-week?threadId=3263326&commentId=59623044#c59622407.

It goes into the very details you asked about. And, by the way, it also answers Pride and Joy's comments. P&J, if you keep up with the conversation, then you will do better with your remarks (not a slam).

AM: and then remind conservatives that you thought Clinton should be impeached.

Clinton was impeached Annie. For perjury and obstruction of justice. It was in all the papers. I'm surprised you missed it.

And that's the whole point Forrest, I'm glad you got there.

A totally good lawyer cost money. Just by way of illustration I bill out at between $300 and $450 per hour. The most junior associate I have bill out at $225.

For me to get involved - meet with the client, review documents and witness statements and provide an initial opinion and budget, cost upwards of $5000. Then If I answer the complaint, draft some basic discovery and gear up for a deposition of the plaintiff, you are talking around $20k.

All I know about Cain is that the settlements were for very little - $45k and maybe more. Those are low and well within the cost of defense.

In other words to me, and this is what I do for a living, the settlement indicate only a financial decision - a decision made all the time, every day in all manner of cases - it is cheaper to settle than fight.

Sorry to hear about Ms. Forrest. I hope she gets better soon.

Bill, Fairfax. Riddle me-- how about if Cain had first responded by simply saying that yes, there were sexual harassment charges and settlements were paid; I made a mistakes, I'm not proud of it and I apologize; I have nothing further to say on the matter.

Oh Anna Molly - you are not doing any service for David Walker.

When a member of Obama's administration speaks, they speak for the administration.

When Romer said 8% she said it on Obama's behalf.

Now why do you suppose David doesn't get that? You think he has ever review any basin information on Agency?

I tend to think he has not.

And AM - you of all people know exactly why Clinton was not just impeach, but disbarred. He lied and obstructed AM.

That's bad. Although I dod so love the what is the definition of "is" deal-y. Too smart by half.

And another prideful and joyful example of a conservative who can't tell the difference between consensual and unwanted sexual advances. But what do you expect from the crowd who wants to redefine rape?

AM: Kind of like JoAnna, but in her case, I made an exception.

I don't ignore you Annie. You're just too much fun.

Hey libbies - you all profess to hate corporate greed and often moan about fat bonuses.

So Fannie and Freddie just lost $6 billion, and need another $126 billion bailout. Yet they gave $12 million in bonuses.

What are we going to do with this government greed?

Not a peep out of the lot of you, eh?

Just ask Dick Cheney, who used it to shield the names and content of conversations held with third parties -- i.e., private sector oil company executives -- outside the government executive umbrella.

Anna -- Great point.

David -- Thanks for the chuckles this morning. ; )

Spanky -- They need to work on winding down Freddie and Fannie...tell them to get busy!!

EXTRA! EXTRA! READ ALL ABOUT IT!

Michelle Bachman is going to create millions of high paying jobs as President.

As a Mounds voter, you know, sometimes you feel like a nut, sometimes you don't, I won't be voting for Million Jobs Michelle in 2012.

Obama/Biden 2012 No nuts

Of course, I know Clinton was impeached.

And acquitted.

JoAnna:

I don't ignore you Annie. You're just too much fun.

We don't agree on too much, but you got that right, anyway.

Annie,

Can you please define what "ignore" means to you?

Just ask'n hon.

MAY “THE FORCE” BE LIFTED HERMAN CAIN! Let's hear from the victims....

Speaking to a group of supporters today in Virginia, Cain said,

"There is a force at work here that is much greater than those that would try to destroy me and destroy this campaign."

What force? Legally binding documents? So far, the GOP voters of Iowa don't seem to mind the allegations, which is what really matters anyway.

But as CQ notes the NRA "will sooner or later feel compelled to do the politically smart thing and release both women who have accused Cain of inappropriate sexual behavior from the gag-order clauses."

Now, the woman who accused Cain of misconduct and took the severance pay wants to speak out, but is barred from doing so by the terms of her agreement.

"[Cain's] basically saying: 'I never harassed anyone. These claims have no merit,'" the woman's lawyer tells the Times.

"And I'm sure my client would have a comeback to that."

According to the paper's four sources, the alleged encounter took place "in the context of a work outing.” A relative of the woman spoke about the attention surrounding the incident:

"This is not something we asked for. This is not something we brought on."

The embarassment that is the Cain campaign grows….Herman Cain is being accused of sexual harassment by a third former employee.

The ex-staffer, a woman who worked for Cain at the National Restaurant Association in the 1990s, told the Associated Press that GOP candidate displayed aggressive and unsolicited behavior, including suggestive remarks and inappropriate gestures. She claimed that he even invited her back to his apartment, a breach of company policy.

WASHINGTON (AP) — A third former employee says she considered filing a workplace complaint over what she considered aggressive and unwanted behavior by Herman Cain when she worked for the presidential candidate in the 1990s. She says the behavior included a private invitation to his corporate apartment.

She worked for the National Restaurant Association when he was its head. She told The Associated Press that Cain made sexually suggestive remarks or gestures about the same time that two co-workers had settled separate harassment complaints against him.

The employee described situations in which she said Cain told her he had confided to colleagues how attractive she was and invited her to his corporate apartment outside work. She spoke on condition of anonymity, saying she feared retaliation.

Cain's campaign declined to comment to the AP.

According to Politico, GOP pollster Chris Wilson told a radio station that the alleged

"episode took place in the neighborhood where Cain kept an apartment when he headed the restaurant trade group." Wilson said, "This occurred at a restaurant in Crystal City (Virginia), and everybody was aware of it. It was only a matter of time because so many people were aware of what took place, so many people were aware of her situation, the fact she left — everybody knew with the campaign that this would eventually come up."

In an interview with POLITICO, Wilson said he

“was present for the episode and that it took place in the late '90s.”

Wilson declined to say specifically what Cain said or did to the woman, but that the CEO's actions made other individuals at the table uneasy.

"It was very uncomfortable," said the pollster, recalling that

“other individuals present asked Cain to stop.”

Wilson said there were at least three other people at the gathering but wouldn't share the name of the woman for publication.

Radio Station confirms charges

Chris Wilson, a former NRA staffer, told Oklahoma radio station KTOK that he witnessed Cain sexually harassing a woman at Virginia restaurant in the late 90s. Wilson said that while he could not discuss specifics of what happened, he believes if the woman were to talk about it "I think it'll be the end of his campaign."

Politico does add, "Wilson is a Rick Perry supporter and does polling for a Super PAC that supports the Texas governor's presidential bid." But Wilson wants to make it clear he did not leak the story.

Fouth charge of harassment comes forward from Iowa radio station.

The White House hopes of Herman Cain have been dealt another blow after a conservative radio host in Iowa accused him of subjecting two of his female staff to "inappropriate and awkward" behaviour.

Steve Deace, who has considerable influence among Christian conservatives in the state where the first votes in the contest for the Republican nomination will be cast in two months time, said Mr Cain was "compromised in his private life".

As the radio host gave an impromptu press conference in Des Moines, his two female staff were rushed out of the building where he works, protected by men who prevented them being asked questions by journalists.

Mr Deace, the Iowa radio host, did not say when the alleged incidents at his radio station happened but he has stated previously that he first met Mr Cain in July 2009.

"To bring up any further evidence or to add any more specifics really puts the burden on our staff and not really where the burden of proof for the American people belongs which is with the guy running for President of the United States," he said.

When asked about the latest allegation, Mr Block, the Cain campaign manager, made a cryptic reference to a receptionist.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/republicans/8867608/Herman-Cain-woes-continue-as-radio-host-accuses-him-of-inappropriate-behaviour.html

Will the “Force” shielding the Cain campaign be lifted? We should know today.

The National Restaurant Association is expected to announce on Friday whether it will publish a statement from one of the women who accused Herman Cain of inappropriate behaviour when he was chairman of the organisation.

A spokeswoman for the association, Sue Hensley, said a copy of the woman's statement had been received from her lawyer on Thursday and would be considered overnight.

The decision of the association, which Cain headed in the late 90s when the alleged sexual harassment took place, looks like a lose-lose situation for him. If published the statement could provide the first detailed account of what until now have only been vague charges. If the organisation refuses to publish it will look as if there is something significant to hide.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/nov/04/herman-cain-faces-public-airing-harassment?newsfeed=true

The two women who received settlements signed agreements to maintain silence. But a Washington-based lawyer, Joel Bennett, acting on behalf of one of the women, wrote to the association on Thursday asking for the ban to be lifted and for her statement, which he provided, to be published. Hensley told Reuters on Thursday: "We are currently reviewing the document and we plan to respond tomorrow."

Spanky: When Romer said 8% she said it on Obama's behalf.

But it was just a suggestion, at least according to Mr. Walker. That's what we expect out of our presidents economists; idle musings, half-a** guesses, and suggestions. And please, never, ever hold them accountable for what ever they cook up, my gosh, they were just suggestions! Suggestions they used to broker a near trillion dollar deficit spending deal with Congress that they called a "Stimulus".

David Walker - I am very concerned that you have my "Top Secret" guacamole recipe. However I do go light on the cilantro. Yes CA avocadoes are the best!

Spanky who???

Ah, but all is not lost for my libbie friends - this is, after all 'Recovery Fall'.

Right David?

JAS1 - Obama and his gang do seem to have an issue with accountability.

AM - Disbarred. Dude got disbarred for lying about spooging on lewinsky's dress.

Dude was the most powerful man in the world and all he could get was Lewinsky. that is the worst thing in my book.

I heart David Walker,...I do;

But Dear, sweet David,

No self respecting guac maker would pull out a mixer to do what the publicly educated hands of a true work smith can do better, faster and cheaper (lol).

I DO so love a good metaphor, pass the chips, please!

Elise and Clara:

Elise, you can expect a knock on your door at any moment. Your pathetic attempt to pretend that I have stolen "your" recipe will be dealt with harshly.

Clara, while it is true that I spent half my K-12 years in a private school, only half my hands were educated there. The right hand learned at the private school and the left hand learned at the public school. As a consequence, the right and the left cannot seem to work together. It is God's will. Hence, the REA-assisted mixer, which yields super-smooth guacamole.

Elise, are you still there, or have you been dragged out for a waterboarding? We WILL find the leak.

Thank you Spanky on behalf of Mrs. Grump. I get the whole cost of defense, except and until it is a matter of personal integrity. If it is just a pure business decision, like the breach of lease case you described I get it, but when your good name and reputation is on the line I think you have to defend it, and it is not like Cain could not afford a good defense, I'm sure he could have kept pace with a $45,000 a year wage slave.

JAS1: It will be fun watching Barry explain that one.

Yes, JAS, I'm sure you and your pal Mitch McConnell enjoy seeing Obama fail. After all, it is your number one priority. Fun?

And the red headed rooster crows at Spanky - often attacks but never contributes. I would pay money for a one-on-one, face-to-face debate between those two.

Oh, and without a teleprompter.

Spanky:

Dude was the most powerful man in the world and all he could get was Lewinsky. that is the worst thing in my book.

This coming from a Dude whose handle is Spanky? I don't even want to know how you got your moniker.

(Sorry, couldn't resist)

STATUTE OF LIMITATIONS

When someone runs for President, how far back should the muckraking press go to dig up dirt? 5 years? 10 years? Back to Puberty? Back to the Crib?

The good name of an honorable Black Conservative is being dragged through the mud. Happily, the folks in Iowa, know a hatchet job when they see one. Chin up Herm, the small minded Liberals can not tolerate the idea of a Black man making it in life without celebrating welfare, socialism, or victimhood.

This coming from a Dude whose handle is Spanky? I don't even want to know how you got your moniker.

Be on the lookout for a simian!!

listenToMe

Sadly, he "over" shared the obvious during the Weiner scandal,...again to David's point, Spanky is the best reason to Ignore Spanky.

Greg Parker:

The Press? Really? Someone went to Politico with this story. This did not begin with the press. However, to hear the Cain people tell it, the source is the Dems, Perry, Romney, little green men, Rove, and a talking dog.

How far back, you ask? Silly man. You stopped at the crib! Republicans want to go back to the moment of birth. You might ask President Obama about.

The more voyeuristic of the right-wing crazies want to go back to conception. You might want to ask Albany Joe about that.

Aww 'cmon guys...don't ignore Spanky...where else can you get free laughs? I mean, between the lying and the ignorance, it's a toss up as to what's more pathetic! And just wait until he throws down the old "your opinions are wrong" line...pure GOLD!

Speaking of gold, Spanky...seems GoldLine has been served with like 16 counts of fraud? FRAUD, Spanky...gee, I hope you didn't listen to Glenn Beck...GOT SALT?

Oh, and wait until he trots out his sock puppet, Mixed Bag...where's he been lately, "counselor"? In the wash?

Can the 6 (maybe more by now) people who voted for Ron's comment explain why?

Because we miss him and his wonderful posts.

Hi Ron, good post and observations this morning, and so nice to see you posting again.

Ron's post made more sense than all the tea people GOP republicans on FR put together. I didn't vote on it but it was more interesting than the tea people.

What Mo said. And just for that, I think I'll be # 7! :)

I think Mo-1852032 hit it right. Even when Ron says nothing, it makes more sense than what the teapublicans say.

BTW, Ron, terrific post on thread #1; good to see you back.

I'm voting for Ron any time----he has great insights--we don't call him the "Perfessor" for nothing!!

There HAS to be some automated thing they set up with their moderators or whatever. How the hell else would ANYBODY vote for a Feisty Brickhead comment when all she says is "I hate the stale pale male LMAO! LOL!!!!! Me and you are on the same page, Backwash Navy!!! LMAO!!! "IR, you are on fire today!!!! LMAO!!!!!! You go girl!!!! LOL!!!! """""

Voting for an empty post. Time to get a life.

Reply's on commenting on an empty post arriving in 3..2..1..

ahh, the collapse cowards couldn't handle the guacamole heat, so they shut down the kitchen,...

so typical!

Voting for an empty post. Time to get a life

Ahhh - I do so LOVE the smell of right winger envy in the morning! lol

Good to see you back Ron - you got my vote (on both comments ;o)

guacamole heat, so they shut down the kitchen,...

Typical & predictable GF!

We hadn't even busted out the salsa yet! lol

Oh well how about some *popcorn*?

Can the 6 (maybe more by now) people who voted for Ron's comment explain why?

Ron is having a period. The six votes are just sympathy?

Can the 6 (maybe more by now) people who voted for Ron's comment explain why?

________________________________________________________________

I voted for it because, having read a few of his posts over the years, this is the finest, most well reasoned, fact based, post of Dr. Ron's that I have ever read.

I also find it entertaining that when he doesn't get to be the first poster he copies his number 2 post, replaces it with a "." and immediately reposts it as a reply to post number 1. Dr Ron might want to ask his shrink about that OCD malfunction in his brain.

LOL!!!

Where are the jobs, Speaker Boehner? You're right on target this morning IR. With Europe teetering we can afford even less to wait for the obstructionist Republicans to get off their duffs and do something.

BUILD BABY BUILD!

Unemployment ticked down slightly to 9.0%; for blacks, it ticked down a full percentage point. Think how much lower it would be IF the GOP Senate had not blocked, delayed, denied, obstructed and filibustered for 3 years--too bad keeping people unemployed, keeping the economy in a major slump and defeating President Obama is what the GOP intended--the promises the GOP keeps aren't the kind to brag about.

This Radical Right is just showing their hand at their attempts to bring down President Obama. However, in doing so they are hurting people across the land.

Their not only hurting people across the land Job1, their killing their chances of winning any elections in 2012.

IR........Good Post, you wrote 'Apparently we don’t have an Executive Branch problem we have a Legislative Branch problem'

That is the core problem in a nutshell, they truly are a "DO NOTHING" congress.

Not true they named a lot of buildings Ronald Reagen and they honored the motto In God We Trust, by the end of the year they may propose a bill that melds their two accomplishments into a new motto - "In Ronald Reagen We Trust".

Forrest a little something to lighten the mood is always welcome. Thanks for joining me this morning

Whenever the President has been able to act without the obstruction of Congress he has had success--most notably in the foreign policy arena. Just imagine what he could get done if the Republicans did nothing more than support policies that they have supported in the past.

Forrest--hope Mrs. Forrest feels better soon.

Forrest Grump, hope Mrs. Forrest Grump is feeling better. I'll bet that's next on their list but I'll tweak it--In Reagan & Grover We Trust.

Thank You on Mrs. (Lotta) Grumps behalf.

As long as we are going to have Sesame Street characters I propose "Trickle Me Elmo"

Im sure the 14 million unemployed, along with the millions who have dropped completely put of the labor force, (bringing the civilian employment level down to 1983 levels), are truly happy for your efforts.

I remember it like it was only yesterday JoAnne!

At this time 3 years ago, I was already in Milwaukee - getting out the VOTE!

It was a beautiful November day with temps in the low 70's, abundant sunshine & plenty excitment in the air!

Left WI around 4:30 to head back & drop off some of my co-campaigners & then grabbed a train to get down to Grant Park!

When CNN announced then Senator Obama would be the 44th President of OUR United States you could feel the electricity in the crowd & the tears flowed freely!

Thanks for the memories...

Will I be back to help re-elect President Obama?

Yes - HELL YES!

He is our only HOPE to the millions who are NOT in the 1%

JoAnne.....great post and did you ever bring back some memories, lovely memories. And here we are 3 yrs later still in his corner and willing and ready to work for another four years. Cheering on and rooting for his many successes and proposals. Yes, he is worth walking over hot coals for and trudging in the rain, cold and in my case, sweltering in +90 degs heat. Yes well worth every effort and hard to beat that kind of dedication and organization.

Good to see you posting, hope you have good results from your tests.

That put a smile on my face, JoAnne. I'll never forget the day in late January, 2009 when I was walking through the airport terminal in Philadelphia. A very proud voice on the intercom announced a flight that had been "moved to Gate B 21, That's Barack 21."

Yeah, that was a good day.

Things have fallen apart since then.

Hopey Changey and all that.

So true, we will re-elect President Obama and send many of the Radical Right in Congress home.

JoAnne PA, way to end the week, made me smile, too! What an evening it was as well as we watched the polls close from east to west, the first reports, the realization that yes, we did. I still see the look on Karl Rove's face as he was explaining that McCain would win Ohio and oops, he was told it had been declared for Obama!

JoAnne & Feisty----how wonderful that your hard work paid off. Three years ago today I was "on call" in case an attorney was needed at a polling place dispute. I am glad to say that we had none in my area---it made me really proud of our political process. A year from now I will be even more proud to pull the lever (well, I guess I push a button but you get what I mean) for the re-election of Barack Obama.

We had the "debate" here last week about 110%---our friend Jody especially doesn't like it---but as a metaphor for unflagging support it works!!

Okay, I won that bet with myself - I just knew I could count on NoJoe to illustrate my point. Beautifully. But who'd have guessed the words "truly happy" were even in her vocabulary?

John B - Great story! And no, that wasn't me on the intercom!

Steeler Fan - Okay, I'll bend the rules. No 110% necessary. At this point, even 10% enthusiasm seems to be hard to come by. Oh, and I HATE just pushing those buttons - bring back those good old levers!

Great posts gang. Together we stand to reelect President Obama in 2012. You can tell by the posts by the tea people GOP republicans here to day, their falling apart as we post.

no joe, no bo, nj

Im sure the 14 million unemployed, along with the millions who have dropped completely put of the labor force, (bringing the civilian employment level down to 1983 levels), are truly happy for your efforts.

Yeah, how dare Obama cause the economy to begin collapsing in 2007, two years before he even took office!

JoAnne -

What a lovely post, and a thoughtful one, too.

I was on my job all that day, wearing a light jacket with an "I Voted" sticker on the left front breast. The sticker, however, was two weeks old - in Florida, then, we had early voting for some time ahead of election day. I had to stand in quite a long line, too, since at that time the polling station was on a university campus. All the kids were coming out to vote.

Next year, unless some of the lawsuits trying to overturn recent legislation succeed, the turnout is likely to be much lower, and the early voting has been sharply cut back. The Florida Tea Party governor and the Republican-dominated state legislature bent themselves with a will to attempt to suppress likely Democratic voters here - as has been done in states nationwide.

And there isn't one rational argument in favor of voter suppression, apart from naked political abuse of power.

John B, that's a terrific story. Barack 21.

Thanks for sharing that JoAnne! So inspiring . . . you have got me FIRED UP and READY TO GO! :o)

Umm, I can't explain what is up with the archives; but I will never forget Mark, Seattle's story posted on this thread,...and for all the newbies,...here is the First Thoughts article the morning after the election,...

http://firstread.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2008/11/06/4427753-first-thoughts-the-transition-game

Feisty, I've been having problems with the archives lately, have you?

NJNB, you are correct those 14 million people are happy that they don't have McCain and Palin, and most of those people will try to re-elect Obama, republicans are leaving them no other choice.

Another fine post you've gotten us into, Jody. Excellent as usual.

Speaker Boehner said President Obama has "given up on the economy and stopped governing."

The typical GOP ploy project your weakness on the other guy and blame them for your mistakes.

Michele Bachmann announced to Iowans last weekend that "I'm the most anti-Obama candidate" as if that warrants a gold star or girl scout merit badge.

Michele the insignificant needs to have her soap box revoked. Constitution... Blah, Blah, Blah. Sharia Law... Blah, Blah, Blah.

As always, thanks for the recap. Fantastic.

The right-wing still can't get used to the fact that damned Nigra is actually driving the bus.

Always one of the best posts of the week Thanks Jody!

Excellent as always Jody!

Must be difficult to chose from, with all the 'material' the right wing nut jobs are feeding ya! ;o)

Jody, you hit it out of the park again. Great job! I look forward to reading this post every Friday, as it helps me keep up on the news I sometimes miss and I smile at your observations of these happenings.

Have a great weekend!

Thanks. The tip of the iceberg would describe what I posted today.

Have a great weekend everyone!

Jody Iowa - thanks for another great wrap up! I look forward to them every week!

Here's the other way it was-

Thanks to the due diligence done by this administration on who we were backing, the alQueda flag was being flown in Libya- in the city at the heart of the uprising. While European news outlets were widely reporting this, our own media ignores it. Makes you wonder about the "professionalism" of our "journalists".

OWS in Oakland shut down the nation's fifth busiest port- one supposed all those dockworkers and truck drivers are part of the "1%". During their "general strike"- that largely failed- they broke windows and sprayed graffiti on walls of small businesses. They broke into an empty building, set fires, and hurled chunks of concrete and Molotov cocktails at police and firefighters. Quinnipiac, which conducted a poll heavily tilted toward democrats, (given a pool consisting of 48% democrats/democratic leaning independents to 35% republicans/republican leaders), found that voters are turning against the movement.

In a show of the "strength" of the teachers' union, a Colorado ballot initiative that would have raised both income and sales taxes with the funds raised being earmarked "for the children" did more than fail- it went down in flames. Despite the union out raising and outspending opposition groups twenty to one, the ballot initiative failed by 28 points.

Kind of puts in perspective all those polls that say majorities approve of raising taxes "for the children", doesn't it? Seems like a lot of people think it's a great idea to raise taxes, until the money comes out of their pockets. Then, not so much.

Oh, another ballot initiative also failed- one that would have forced businesses to give paid time off for each nine hours of work. Small businesses were the targets- firms with fewer than fifty employees.

The spin on today's unemployment figures attempts to put a nice shiny coat of paint on the wreck of Obama's employment policies. Unemployment of 9% is a good thing? 14 million long term unemployed is a good thing? The lowest civilian employment level since 1983 is a good thing?

Spin away- it won't help. Neither does Harry Reid's statement that the "private sector" is doing just fine.

Congress issued subpoenas for all White House documents in the Solyndra case, including Obama's Blackberry. Be interesting to see the argument for national security on that one. If they fight it, the documents will be released sometime next fall- just in time for the election. I get that there are those on this board who buy Obama's argument that Kaiser was at the White House all those times to discuss "charity". I'm pretty sure the only charity discussed was that of taxpayer dollars going into Kaiser's pockets.

After all, Obama owed him. Dollars for Donors guaranteed him a tenfold payback on his "investment".

In a true show of how delusional he is, Obama declared that Pelosi was one of the best Speakers America ever had. Not to be outdone, Pelosi declared "the House is in play".

You have to wonder what these people are smoking.

Ah, well. Another bad week for Obama- another lousy week for America.

Obama shelved in 2012.

Outstanding....too bad GNOPers can't handle the truth....

Jody--part of my TGIF experience now is reading your excellent wrap-up of the week in politics. I used to lament that the crop of Republican candidates for President was so unqualified that we were losing the opportunity for new ideas and healthy debate but I now realize that they have NO ideas and they are unable to debate--they just recite talking points.

Jody -- Great roundup... Can I add that yesterday I found out two republicans, despite their rhetoric against the health care law, were the first in line to take advantage of a component of it. Below is the link to the story.

http://news.yahoo.com/obama-health-care-law-unexpected-beneficiaries-070739167.html

Thanks for sharing your thoughts each week! Much appreciated.

Jody

John Boehner was questioned about Grover Nordquist; he said he's a random American and that their focus is on jobs. Really, why has the Speaker not brought the AJA or any other jobs legislation to the floor for a vote? The only job the GOP is focused on is in the one in the White House. Let Rome burn.

That was classic Republican unintentional comedy at its finest. Boehner pretends he doesn't know who Nordquist is, even though he signed his no-new-taxes-no-how-no-way pledge. Now with the Republicans defense of tax breaks for the wealthy have become so unpopular, Boehner's sudden memory loss kind of reminds me of how George Bush suddenly didn't know who his erstwhile good friend and biggest money bundler, "Kenny Boy" Lay was after the Enron scam started to unravel.

Hey, Jody - Thanks for another awesome wrap-up - you always manage to tell me something I hadn't heard about.

I did see that piece from Richard Engel on Brian Williams' new "Rock Center" show this week - every time I think he can't get any more impressive, he has me on the edge of my seat again. It's great to know there's still at least one honest-to-God "journalist"out there risking it all to get to the truth instead of just taking the "Access Hollywood" easy way out.

By the way, I know a lot ends up on your cutting room floor, but here's one from an earlier FR thread this morning you could also have included - Rick Santorum on his chances in Iowa:

“We want to win [in Iowa], and that’s what we are aiming for, but obviously if you are sitting in the back of the polls, a win is not necessarily the only way you can come out of here with a win.”

I think I speak for all of us when I say.....I'm just speechless!

Thank you no joe, posts like that restore my faith!

Here's the other way it was-

Hey njnb, Why don't you post that crap on it's own? Afraid no one will respond to your nonsense? Give it a rest already.

Thank you no joe, posts like that restore my faith!

Like moths to a flame...

Don't Carry...Houston, appreciate your adding a couple good points. Feel free, anytime.

The only unwelcomed additions are those of No Joe who has yet to complete that recommended course in writing truth as opposed to delusional, anti-Obama rants; even when she has a couple good additions, she twists them into pretzels to meet her required hate liberal level. But IR, Virginia, always keeps the backhoe handy for the daily manure spills.

Do us a favor, No Joe, post your own Weekly Nutshell thread or are you afraid to go out on your own?

Backhoe will be over in a minute Jody. Thanks for summing it up so nice. Twice.

IR-- Can you bring the rolled newspaper as well??? : )

Glad you didn't mind Jody... : )

No Joe, post your own Weekly Nutshell thread or are you afraid to go out on your own?

It shouldn't come as any surprise that the serial liar from NJ would also be a coward...

Thank you no joe, posts like that restore my faith!

Devie - more like flies to an outhouse! ;o)

DCIA I think in this case as Red said yesterday only a "shock Collar" set to stun will do any good.

Well Jody--another great round-up of the week! I can always count on hearing something I missed. It has been a wild week, and I think there will be more, until the TPGOP finds a "front runner". It will probably be Mitt, by default. How sad for him--he has had how many goes at this? Always the bridesmaid, never the bride.....and this time not by popular acclaim, but because he is not as radical as the rest (but who really knows--he changes his positions as often as a runner changes his socks!). In any case, the Dew Drop Inn is looking like a good choice for a place to unwind and have a hot toddy and conversations with friends. Popcorn is on me tonight!

"We have met the enemy and he is us!" Pogo by Walt Kelly

Right-wingers! Fear not! No jo will be hosting a get-together at the Drop-Doo Inn tonight.

Again, David, I'm your #1 Fan,...perfect, pitch frickin' perfect.

Good one, Da Noid, that line would have fit neatly in the weekly nutshell (credited to you, of course) renewed their vows. LOL

Da Noid - wasn't that like number 1 or 2 on the top of things to do for Congress - right there along with abortion, gay rights etc.....jobs obviously are not that important.....

WHERE ARE THE JOBS GNOPers?

I can't take credit for "renewed their vows"...that goes to Jon Stewart from last night's The Daily Show.

I loved the clip from FOX & Friends he played...mainly because I think Gretchen Carlson is just so darn cute when she gets lost in the woods. Gretchen was lamenting that it's such a shame that Congress had to vote on this.

Well, Gretchen, no, Congress didn't have to vote on this. Nobody was threatening to change the motto...it was the GOP that brought it up.

Bonus points to Jon Stewart for also pointing out this statistic...the vote to reaffirm the motto won with 97% of the vote in the house. There was a greater percentage of dissent at The Last Supper!

We are having an election for our county executive, with the Republican running quite a spirited campaign (the fact that his main primary opponent was an attorney under indictment for stealing client funds gave him a head start). I received a mailing telling me that this man is pro-life and will protect the rights of the unborn. I am still trying to figure out what role our county executive would have in this but it shows me the effort to turn out the conservative base by raising social issues when the true issue will be an assault on the unions in our county----police, transit, etc.

Steeler Fan,

You are right. The cultural conservatives only need to see the labels"Pro Life, Protect Marriage" to make their decisions regardless of the duties of the office holder.

Remember, M. Bachmann got her start running for her local school board.

Is anybody buying this silliness you're selling? The presidency goes to whoever is 'blackest'?? You forgot the one on your mandatory ditto head list about blacks being "brainwashed" because they overwhelmingly voted for Obama (because, of course, they'd naturally all be registered Republicans except for the brainwashing thing making them suddenly unable to consider their own best interest). You keep backing that Cain train. In fact, you should really empty your entire wallet and bet on that one. I'm sure the 'let em eat cake' party is going to take off any moment now....just as soon as that book tour thing finishes and he can figure out where Iowa is.

Damage:

FYI . . . we "blacks" are no longer "owned" so the phrase "our blacks" is disrepectful bullsh!t. . . but you knew that, right?

Glad to see your fixation on black folks is still in full force . . . I am flattered as always.

Damage......My first reaction when I read the beginning of your post and saw Ann Coulter's name was to laugh out loud. Are you really expecting this to be taken seriously?

That is the silliest expectation, coming from you. You need to let go the 'black' thing, you are not qualified to discuss, never mind re post insulting drivel such as this.

Really, I had no idea Scott Brown's pickup truck was racist!

Must be a list from FOX or Drudge, maybe Andrew Breitbart.

Actually, it was Howard Fineman and Keith Olbermann

http://hotair.com/archives/2010/01/20/olby-massachusetts-suddenly-turned-racist/

What a load of bull.

Joseph Cirincione, then with the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, said Rice "doesn't bring much experience or knowledge of the world to this position." (Unlike Hillary Clinton, whose experience for the job consisted of being married to an impeached, disbarred former president.)

I guess being a lawyer and United States Senator doesn't carry enough weight for you.

As for slamming her status as First Lady... I would say she was probably on a first name basis with most of the leaders of the world because of it.

Get a grip Damage.

Being accused of sexual harassment in the restaurant industry is like finding ,well, a black Republican. It doesn't happen as often as ya think--the restaurant industry might be the last bastion of consensual sex among employees and management, at least at the better-run restaurants, meaning if you can't get laid in a restaurant, you are a vile person.

Herman Cain, apparently, was a pretty vile person, who managed to sexually harass, on MULTIPLE OCCASIONS, women who take standard pick-up lines as a day-to-day part of the culture. This isn't because he is black, a Republican, a lobbyist, a Tea Party motivational speaker, or anything else but the fact that he was STUPID enough to do it over and over again. It doesn't mean he was exercising his blackness, it just means he was being a dick in a culture where it is really hard to be a dick.

Heh, ya'll have fun with Herman Cain. Anyone taking bets on him finishing in the top three in New Hampshire or South Carolina gimme a call, I might even give you betting odds to go with it.

I read the Hot Air link, and Hot Air was stretching the hot air on that one. It was a discussion of the Tea Party and the implications of Brown's win in MA; discussing the racial aspects of the Tea Party with their coded words and images and a reference to pickup trucks and turning it into Scott Brown's pickup is racist is hot air. Fineman made a vague, half-baked reference to pickups as images in some regions but he did not say driving pickup trucks was racist. Was it a silly comment? Of course, but despite all the Bush and GOP unfunded spending, two unfunded wars, the increasing deficit and debt from 2001-2008, the Tea Party did not emerge until President Obama took office--many of the signs they carried had obvious racial undertones and those claiming they did not are missing the reasoned thought gene. This gist of the Olbermann & Fineman conversation was discussing the racial undertones of segments within the Tea Party--it exists.

great point Nashville...and the sad part is Ann Coulter does not understand how "racist" her own comment is. She's pointing a finger at others and ignoring the 3 pointed at herself.

I have a hard time figuring out why Ann Coulter is so freaking angry all the time. She's blond, she's rich, she's tall, she's thin - wait, maybe that's it. She's just hungry and cranky. I've never seen her on TV when she isn't actually quivering with suppressed rage. Just look at her book titles. It can't all just be hype.

It must be a rough life when even her vibrator rejects her,...

Latent Lesbian rage? I mean you never see her on a date, or even as a 'beard',...

just observing here.

[I have a hard time figuring out why Ann Coulter is so freaking angry all the time.]

Well, he she DOES have an Adam's Apple...and throat surgery is waaaaay more obvious than lopping off the Slim Jim...

Well, duh...obviously corporations were busy shedding jobs in anticipation of President Obama's election!

(That was sarcasm, by the way.)

Herman Cain is no LESS qualified than B. Hussein Obama. That's why Cain's success in the campaign is so funny. It's great watching you people fall all over yourselves trying to bring him down and have to be accused of the same things that you always accuse the Republicans of being. Basically, it's great to beat you people over the head with your own stick.

Damage:

Who is "you people"? You are like Archie Bunker with wi-fi! lol

P.S. I would love it if Cain wins the GOP nomination! :o)

i don't consider it sucess by beating up old people when i play tennis...cain is non a sucess he just happens to be running in against the worst set of canidates ever fielded....success talk about a low bar...hell it you foolish conservatives that keep saying you dont like your canidates....so cain is the best of the worst huh....wow....wack job....

Yes they are the debt generation and if anything will unite them it is understanding who will pay off the 2.5 Trillion deficit spending we are doing each year and the 15 Trillion debt....as many are beginning to realize it costs them access to jobs on graduating. These will become the voices in remembering how great our standard of living used to be if we do not change direction.

Nashville Fan,

Thanks for the information about Occupy Nashville.

If it can happen in Nashville, the OWS movement is finding common ground for the voice of the 99%.

60 years of gathering debt you just noticed....nice,,,

Great story, Nash. If people would stop assuming OWS is a Right/Left issue they'd quickly realize it's a Big/Small or Wall Street/Main Street issue. Many of the economic issues people on the Right are concerned with are also shared on the Left because it's an abuse of power thing, not really a matter of economic philosophy

The right claiming elections were stolen by democrats is about the same as June Cleaver accusing the members of her PTA of wearing lacy aprons over a dress.

We can expect many stolen elections from the repugnicrites in 2012.

They ALWAYS project what they are up to.

Marshal,

I know I would rather shut this disfunctional government down and force across the board cuts. It is what we need to do and should have been doing all along. The Dems will never agree to real cuts, so the forced ones will work just fine. The 12 member commission will never agree so at least the failover plan works..... I say just state the obvious now and implement the across the board cuts. There is no way this turns out any other way, so why prolong it?

I think across the board should be how it is until such time as someone is actually willing to make serious cuts where they are needed. And increased revenue is not needed. Decreased spending is. The failover plan of across the board cuts without tax increases sounds good to me.

ABO 2012

the goverment not disfunctional the teaparty is the only new variable...with the house with a 9% approval hmmm could it be them that screwing it up...it wasn't this bad before the new goofs ,,,debt crisis ,,,,budge goverment shutdown,,,,no bills passed unless it's to confirm in god we trust is our national motto true they voted in the house and debated it the other night.......what a f,,,,ing waste of time boehner...

Great questions, Monetfan. Can't answer them all, but I think Perry was loopy on something in NH----was it pain meds for his bad back? I think Jon Hunstman will realize he is in the wrong party about the same time Grimey does. I absolutely don't get the whole Kardashian thing---can't help there.

1. Perry tried to overcompensate and be more emotional, it failed big time.

2. Perhaps Mitt's messy hair helps him break out of his cardboard type role?

3. Too many D or R voters can not see wrong in one of their own, or they don't try to see the other side.

4. A lot of reports may have to be withdrawn if he is telling the truth.

5. Huntsman can pass for a conservative DINO.

6. ABR - The main stream conservatives want to monetarily support anyone but Romney.

7. Well as a guy I could explain why there is an interest in Kim Kardashian...er wait maybe I should learn something from this whole Cain fiasco.

Monet

1. Cowboy Ricky has done too much bareback riding. Bad back = painkillers = Alfred E. Newman impersonation.

2. Remember Mitt had a heart-to-heart with The Donald which included grooming advice.

3. Herman is the only hope for the Evangelical's so they simply flock to him as an article of faith. Go ahead and offer proof that Jesus was not interred in a crypt. An article of faith is not subject to proof.

4. Don't worry about being accused of disloyalty. Worry about stupid.

5. Jon Huntsman would move the GOP into contemporary America which scares the he— — out of the Home Schoolers, the Intelligent Design Crowd, the Evangelical Christian Fundamentalists, the Flat Earth Society, the Birthers, the "Cure Gays" crowd and Xenophobics.

6. As for Perry, it doesn't matter what the pundits blabber. As long as the multi-millions trickle in from Harold Simmons and his Oil buddies, Cowboy Ricky is a player. If you don't watch Texas politics, you don't know how low he can go. It would be a big mistake to count him out.

7. Sorry, regarding question 7, Who is Kim Kardisian?

Loyal,

If Mittens is taking HAIR advice from the Donald - Repubs should be doing some major facepalming right now. WOW!

and that from the party of Family Values! It's ok for them to do it...but not others...HA!

BY THE WAY GNOPers - WHERE ARE THE JOBS!

Warren's a college professor who believes in "spreading the wealth around."

I think we've already learned where that gets us! ( $15 trillion debt)

She's just another potential problem from the LEFT.

Is this govt. ever going to get out of debt ??

@Wiser with age,

I saw the same video of her responding to a very irrational man in the audience.

She will make a great Senator. She reminds me of the best college professors I have had in the past. She is thoughtful, happy to engage in dialogue about the topic at hand.

Critical thinking instead of sound bites, what a wonderful quality in a future Senator!

bingo

the idiot part was established prior to this little snafu,...ironic, isn't it, though? I mean if we take his quote, "...Blame Yourself..."

and insert his BS everywhere he says others should be responsible for their own shortcomings,...well wouldn't that be a hysterical autotone?

Just more of that Compassionate Conservative we've all come to despise. Way to rise above it, Hermie.

Rubio's been outed as liar. You OK with that?

Kevin Belake: "...people UNDERSTAND Newt. He is a lying sack of cattle burritos..."

Ummmm, you must mean Obama....

Obama: " Mine is the most transparent administration!" ( hurry and shred those Solyndra documents!! wink wink)

Obama: "You can keep your doctor if you want." ( you think they believe me?! wink wink)

Obama: " Let's spend the $780 billion and the unemployment rate won't go above 8%." ( by the time they find out the truth, the money will be spent.)

(shrugs)

If you *really* think that this election is going to be decided on issues that matter, then you are probably mistaken. The last election decided on issues was probably Clinton '92. Obama ain't Clinton--he doesn't have the Southern church-door background to run that kind of campaign, and Michelle would strip off his junk if he cheats.

BUT you deflect. What I was saying was that the Republicans aren't exactly setting the bar HIGHER to try to win this election. They are trying to find someone--anyone, really--who can keep it together long enough to make it through a primary season without appearing to be a complete nutjob. Watching Perry do his Slim Pickens routine in New Hampshire was hilarious, and Mitt changes his mind every time a big donor check clears the bank.

Obama is the Democratic contender for president for 2012. Now we can enjoy watching the Republican candidates explode like humpback whales in a minefield. It is self-inflicted fun and games, and no one gets hurt except a few bruised egos and Michelle Bachmann, which is strange because this woman is impervious to criticism. I mean, you can whale away at her with a lead pipe to the jaw, and she would still come back up speaking raw gibberish found only in the finest Pentecostal churches during "Snake Handlin' Sunday."

As far as you salient facts (debatable, wink wink) it isn't going to matter. The only candidate that has experience on your side burying embarrassing bodies found in the guest bedroom is Newt, and he is at the age that he just don't care anymore, which makes him an ideal candidate. Watch and see what happens!

Kevin,

here's the one overriding issue..........

JOBS JOBS JOBS.

NOBAMA.

Goodness, not the JOBS game-- I mean, the Constitution of the United States gives the Executive Branch the sole responsibility of creating jobs. I mean, when i graduated from college, the President flew down from Washington to hand me my job, as I am sure he did you as well. WHY isn't OBAMA out creating JOBS?

Oh yeah. If that's all you got, you should prolly save up and move to Mexico until Jan 2017. I hear the opium poppies crop did ok this year, and Mexican Brown can be found fairly cheap along the border.

hey Bob,

Nice try but Monica only "does" Democrats.

Get your facts straight.

LOL

So LEONA --- you and your teatrad buddies are a predictable bunch. Whenever a sex story about a Republican like this comes out they always make to the same two points. First they blame the “liberal media” and talk about how the “liberal media’ is out to get conservatives. Then they bring up Bill and Monica like that’s some kind of a justification. But this is the deal teatards --- this story was very, very likely leaked to the media by a Republican --- probably Karl Rove or perhaps Romney. Neither Bachmann nor Perry are smart enough to pull it off so I doubt either one of them leaked it. And – brining up Bill and Monica reminds me of my grandkids with the idea that two wrong make a right. Bill and Monica trading favors in the White House is NOT AN EXCUSE for Herman Cain or anyone else to play grab-ass with anyone they feel like.

First of all, you don't even know what Herman Cain did.

Why don't you whine about it to Anthony Weiner, the Democrat .... I MEAN..... PERVERT of the year.

lol