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Subscribe to RSSJust before his expected big win tonight in NH, Romney experiences toughest 48 hours of his presidential bid so far… What’s potentially damaging about the Bain attacks: They turn strength into weakness… And these attacks are coming from the right… Breaking down tonight’s race for 1st place (and 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th)… What you need to know: Most polling places close at 7:00 pm ET, but the final ones close at 8:00 pm ET; turnout is expected to be 250,000; and independents can vote in either party’s primary… The early returns from Dixville Notch: Romney 2, Huntsman 2, Paul 1, Obama 3… Looking ahead to South Carolina… Good timing and bad timing on Daley’s departure… And Obama four years ago.
MANCHESTER, NH -- Just before what’s expected to be a double-digit victory for Mitt Romney in tonight’s New Hampshire primary -- which would make him 2 for 2 in the first two contests -- might have been the rockiest past 48 hours during his presidential bid. It started at Sunday morning’s NBC/Facebook debate, where Romney’s rivals piled on the former Massachusetts governor. Later on the campaign trail, Romney stepped in it twice, first saying he had once worried about receiving a pink slip (though his campaign couldn’t cite specific examples) and second uttering the words “I like being able to fire people” (even though he was talking about health-insurance services). And then came the scrutiny on his record at Bain Capital, with a pro-Gingrich Super PAC releasing a movie trailer that slams Romney for being a corporate “raider” and planning to air Bain-themed attack ads in South Carolina.
*** Turning strength into weakness: What makes the Bain scrutiny -- in combination with the “pink slip” and “I like being able to fire people” lines -- so potentially damaging is that goes at the heart of the central rationale of his candidacy: private-sector experience. If you turn that strength into a weakness, then what’s left? The equivalent for Obama in early 2008 would have been revelations that he supported and planned the Iraq surge, turning his strength (opposition of the Iraq war) into a weakness. (However, all the Rezko scrutiny had the potential to dent Obama’s “change” message.) And what has been particularly surprising is that these Bain attacks have been coming from the right. Just think if fellow Democrats had begun to scrutinize John Kerry’s military record in Jan. 2004. Democrats are sitting back and enjoying this fight. But a Romney ally tells First Read 1) that the attacks give Team Romney a head start to parry these charges in a general election, and 2) that conservatives have been rallying to Romney’s defense (example: Jay Nordlinger in National Review). Also, Rick Santorum has taken a pass hitting Romney on Bain.
*** The race for 1st (and 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th): As for today’s New Hampshire primary, we pretty much know who will finish first -- Romney, who owns a home in the state, who is the former governor of neighboring Massachusetts, but who also has done everything he can (like announce his presidential bid there) to ensure that New Hampshire was a firewall for him. The most interesting thing to watch tonight is to see who finishes second. In fact, you could argue that Ron Paul, Rick Santorum, Jon Huntsman, and Newt Gingrich could all finish in slots No. 2, No. 3, No. 4, and No. 5. As we mentioned yesterday, New Hampshire has produced plenty of surprises in past primaries. And the best guess is that tonight’s surprise be for second place.
*** What you need to know: Most polls in New Hampshire are open from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm ET, but each municipality sets its own time, and the last polls close in the state at 8:00 pm ET. And tiny Dixville Notch already voted at midnight, and here are the results: Romney two votes, Huntsman two, Paul one, and Barack Obama three. As far as turnout goes, Secretary of State Bill Gardner is expecting 250,000 to participate in the GOP primary (a slight increase from the nearly 240,000 in 2000 and 2008). And who gets to vote? The New Hampshire primary is a “semi-open” primary, meaning that voters without a declared party can vote in either primary, but registered Democrats and Republicans must vote in their own party’s contest. Independents account for about 40% of New Hampshire voters, and due to the fact that there is essentially no real contest on the Democrats’ side, independents could play a large role in the Republican primary.
*** Wrapping up the ad spending in New Hampshire: Our Destiny PAC (pro-Huntsman) $2 million, Paul $1.5 million, Romney $1.3 million, Perry $234,000, Revolution PAC (pro-Paul) $87,000, Huntsman $70,000, Santorum $30,000, and Gingrich $10,000. As we mentioned yesterday, there are really only three campaigns -- and their supporters -- spending in the Granite State: Romney, Paul, and Huntsman.
*** Looking ahead to South Carolina: Beginning tomorrow, the race turns to South Carolina, and we can one thing with certainty: The contest will get nasty there. Already, the pro-Gingrich Winning Our Future is prepared to spend millions on TV ads hitting Romney on Bain (in what happens to be the most economically distressed early state); Rick Perry has retreated there; and conservatives view the race there as a last stand to defeat Romney. Fasten your seatbelts. By the way, here’s the ad spending so far in South Carolina: Make Us Great Again (pro-Perry) $1.8 million, Restore Our Future (pro-Romney) $1.5 million, Romney $720,000, Perry $517,000, Paul $467,000, Santorum $408,000, Santa Rita PAC (pro-Paul) $324,000, Gingrich $238,000, Red White and Blue Fund (pro-Santorum) $164,000, and Our Destiny PAC $36,500. So as you can see, there’s A LOT more ad spending going on in South Carolina than in New Hampshire.
*** Good timing and bad timing on Daley’s departure: Turning to the White House, yesterday’s Bill Daley news was good timing and bad timing for Team Obama. Good: With all the focus on New Hampshire, it didn’t get the attention that it ordinarily would. Bad: Timed with the release of the new Jodi Kantor book, it furthered the perception that there’s a bit of tension and dysfunction at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. (though that’s typical for all the administrations we’ve covered). The one lesson that Team Obama might take away from the Kantor book and the Daley resignation: It needs to learn to let more folks into the inner circle. When people leave the West Wing, the one constant theme we hear is how hard it is to break into that inner circle formed during the early days of the ’08 campaign. Strikingly, the White House has used the past two weeks focused on the GOP race to bury some news – Daley, the detention deal, the recess appointments – that would have been DOMINANT stories without all the attention on the Republicans. Just some food for thought…
*** Obama four years ago: Meanwhile, the RNC is up with a new web video noting some of the unfulfilled promises from President Obama’s New Hampshire primary speech four years ago. (Then again, when you watch the speech, you do see he accomplished many of the promises he set -- end the Iraq war, reform the health-care system, take the fight to Al Qaeda.) On the Democratic side, Obama for America says it’s holding events in New Hampshire tied to tonight’s primary, and Vice President Biden will speak, via videoconference, to supporters.
Countdown to South Carolina primary: 11 days
Countdown to Florida primary: 21 days
Countdown to Nevada caucuses: 25 days
Countdown to Super Tuesday: 56 days
Countdown to Election Day: 301 days
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How many people will Willard fire today?
There is nothing worse than a grumpy Willard on the campaign trail...
Remember; 'Corporations are people too... my friends'!
And Willard enjoys RAIDING them!
Romney may have said he was “afraid” he might a pink slip
but that was misleading because he had a “golden parachute” in his contract.
This election is over before it even began. Willard is tripping over his own two Right feet all the while wearing mittens while trying to remove the noose around his neck. On top of that he is standing over a powder keg known as the TEA Party teetering on a rickety old chair built by fake capital.
Willard cannot expect to stand against the President as he has already lost the debate before they have even met on stage. But hey, I look forward to the beat down President Obama will deliver to whoever will win the nom.
Willard said, "I like firing people." The thing about it, Morning Joke tried his best to fix it and make it sound good. How can you fix that ? Last I remember you can't fix Stupid.
Willard will Raid the Republican Voter Pantry like Ebenezer Scrooge. He'll even take your cobwebs!!
And a silver spoon in his mouth.
Well he'll have to put the silver spoon back after he gets his foot out.
Yesterday the Libs here were pretty much no where to be found on this story.
Seems they don't want to touch it with a 10 foot pole…..
From the Huffington Post:
From 2006-2008, Jack Lew was chief operating officer of Citibank's alternative
investments division. And it was his division that made billions of dollars
betting "U.S. homeowners would not be able to make their mortgage
payments," as the Huffington Post reported.
The piece also reported: "Lew made millions at Citi, including a bonus of
nearly $950,000 in 2009 just a few months after the bank received billions of
dollars in a taxpayer rescue, according to disclosure forms filed with the
federal government. The bank is still partly owned by taxpayers."
First Rahm Emanuel from Freddie Mac, then Daley from JP Morgan Chase and now this.
Where are those OWS Hippies when you need them?
No wonder the Libs here don't want to touch this story.
By all means let's discuss every word coming from the GOP candidates. Much more important to trash them then ask why Obama keeps surrounding himself with the Wall Street 1%'s.
Mo,
You forgot the gold plated rattle up his a$$!
Wow Louis.....great analysis!
Please enlightened all FR readers as to your thoughts on Mr. Daily's early exit.
He missed Chicago pizza? The Blackhawks are kickin' ass on the ice? My chips will be placed Mrs. Obama (Donkey Mouth) was getting pissy and all up in her hubby's face that she couldn't be "Hillary" enough.
Just a hunch.
Political junkies are riveted on today's Republican primary in New Hampshire, unaware that the vast majority of citizens in the nation couldn't care less. There's some 30 candidates running, but the press covers only six. Probably a liberal plot.
The media have decided that Republican candidates are conservative, they differ only in degree. Newt Gingrich, a politician so corrupt he was thrown from office by his fellow lackeys, labels his opponent, Mitt Romney, a "moderate". This moderate sinner is both pro- and anti- on everything. Doesn't he get credit for being right half of the time? Jon Huntsman points to the "moderate" Romney as having the attitude that tears America apart. Huntsman is a conservative, but more moderate than Romney. Huntsman, a guy who likes the Ryan plan is a "conservative", is a uniter.
Where do you go from there? Ron Paul? Doesn't trust government, is a staunch defender of personal freedom, hates military adventurism, doesn't like the power of the financial sector. Who will return America to Paul's vision of purity? Gandalf, of course; just as soon as he returns from Mordor.
From the Neanderthal wing, there's that tough-talking sissy, Rick Santorum. He hates those damned uppity women, Iranians who dare to defy him, and anyone who disagrees with what Rick knows is right. There's a guy you can trust with the power of the Presidency. And then there's Rick Perry - AKA Beavis Palin. A girl can cuddle up with Perry at a shooting range on a Saturday night. Or send troops back into Iraq, because that worked so well for the last Governor from Texas. Yup, Perry and Santorum a couple of genuine Ricks.
Republican voters are steeped in reality. They know that unions are killing this country. These guys are so powerful that even though only about one in ten Americans belong to a union, they are destroying the nation.
And the abuse that they take at the hands of non-believers. How do they stand it? About one in six Americans are NOT affiliated with religion. Yet, armed with only the power of the Constitution they are able to suppress the burning desire of religious folk who want nothing more than to profess their love of their God publicly.
With enemies such as unions and non-believers, Republicans know they must have firepower. They must have guns. Lots of guns. Who knows, they might have to take down a tyrannical government so they can create a smaller government.
Republicans, Constitutional Conservatives all, know we need Pregnancy Police. They know we must protect our rights by taking them away with the PATRIOT Act. They know prosperity is the tonic for America, and by gum and by God, we'll have it if we give our money to the rich. Our children will get better educations by cutting school funding. The world will be safer if we spend more money on the military.
Yes, these guys are SO right, SO VERY, VERY right. It has to be tough choosing from such a stellar bunch.
Plated? I'd bet the ranch it was solid gold!
FIRED UP
Mitt says he likes being able to "FIRE PEOPLE". The truth is Mitt is not the only one on the right who likes it.
What does Mitt have to hide? The story of Bain’s failed investment should be enough for any rational citizen to see the duplicitousness of this wanna be President as well as any other RepubliCON.
That's the message the RepubliCONS brings to the American people's table more for the rich and less for the middle and poor class.
Any 3rd party such as R0n Paul in my opinion will only siphon off votes from President Obama and help continue the destruction of the middle and poor classes since it could possibly put these Robber Barons in the Oval Office.
All the Republican Candidates are talking aboiut the Ryan Plan; even Jon Huntsman. They want to take Medicare, SS, government subsidies ; even for housing. That would mean American will go to "hell in a hand basket" for sure. I seen it right here in my own city where subsidizes housinsg displaced a lot of people. I saw it in Louisanna , after Katrina where the Land devlocpers came in and built there housing except they didn't build enough housing for those who displaced.
Rachel did a piece on it remember?
Yes, that is the Master Plan coming from the RepubliCONS; less wages / no wages/ no insurance/ the poor and middle classes being the stock exchanged on Wall Street .
American will go to "hell in a hand basket" for sure with RebliCONs.
Nobody but Obama/Biden
I'm fired up!!!
I'm trying to think of anytime I have heard dropping an insurance company described as firing people?
I have heard many pundits cautioning people about taking this comment out of context, which is remarkable since they have NEVER done that with the President, but the truth is the truth. Mittens said that he "likes firing people". I never did when I had to do it, I don't know of anyone who does. This may tell us more about Mitty then anything else he could say.
You don't take away someone's job without a lot of thought, an attempt at remediation, all the things that go into avoiding impacting a family in the most negative way possible. That Mitt looked gleeful at the very thought of "firing" anyone is more than I want to know about him.
I am sure there are families, who got fired who may be coming forward in the next month or so to tell us about what that was like for them.
But as long as Mitty got to fire them, apparently a sport for him, I guess we should all be happy.
Come on Bev, David, Noid, Devie, Dennis...anyone.
What's your take on the third COS in a row for our President to come from Wall Street?
Shouldn't this raise some questions? Doesn't it make you mad?
Get off last night's strategy session to beat Romney's 'taken out of context' comment into the ground and talk about something important for a change.
Chief of Staff to the President is a pretty important job. Why does Obama keep putting the very people he says ruined this country in that position?
Do you think that if you just ignore it, it will go away? (That is a softball, by the way)
Oh Romney, that wasn't nervousness you felt when you thought about Pink Slips .. that was GLEE as you dreamed about issuing Pink Slips to all those employees of companies you devoured, while slurping up assets and spewing out the debts to bankruptcy courts.
The richest 1 percent of Americans have been getting far richer over the last three decades while the middle class and poor have seen their after-tax household income only crawl up in comparison, according to a government study.
http://www.csmonitor.com/Business/Latest-News-Wires/2011/1028/Top-1-percent-has-nearly-quadrupled-income-since-1979
Feisty, I believe Mittens gave us a glimpse into his mindset with that blooper. Something that would be ingrained in him from way back. He has a ruthlessness about his persona that is hard to get past and reinforces another of his gems, "corporations are people...my friends"
I bet Team Romney is really regretting their first ad, the ad that took Obama 100% out of context. That ad, and their defense of it, will make it very difficult for Team Romney not to look like total hypocrites when they start complaining about Romney's, "I like firing people," line being taken out of context.
What was Team Romney's justification for that ad? Something about sauce, geese and ganders?
Isnt Mittens "unemployed". He said he could related to the unemployed because he was one.
Come election time lets give him a big pink slip.
Mitt - "I like being able to fire people."
What a sicko this clown is. Obviously he has a psychological problem. Does he also like kicking dogs? Or beating children? This is the kind of thinking that can become (if not already) extremely dangerous.
And the Republicans want to make this wacko President?
Give me a break.
Obama in 2012.
Actually, Willard prefers strapping them to the roof of his station wagon for a little 'joy ride'! ;o)
Of course, Seamus wasn't too thrilled about that!
White Collar Auto:
Here is your quote from today, January 10, 2012:
Here is what you wrote on January 5, 2012:
What the hell do you really want?
I think it also brings the "electability" argument into question with Mitty. He is absolutely tone deaf, and cannot relate to the fears that Americans have just now.
Attention!
WCA, last I checked Rahm Emmanuel came from the U.S. House of Representatives not Wall Street; he left to become Mayor of Chicago. If you insist on an answer, I don't care. I respect Bill Daley and Jack Lew because of the expertise they brought and bring to the White House. You are mistaken to think that disliking what some Wall Street banks did to cause the epic economic meltdown means we hate Wall Street and all those associated with it.
Leave it to those while collar office worker types who find it more important to hunt and peck through interoffice politics for juicy gossip tidbits rather than focusing on those inane silly issues like unemployment, the economy, or the willingness of these joker Republican candidates who want to abolish contraception.
Abolishing contraceptives, voiding Roe v. Wade, now that makes me MAD!!
Michael1969
Wow Louis.....great analysis!
Please enlightened all FR readers as to your thoughts on Mr. Daily's early exit.
He missed Chicago pizza? The Blackhawks are kickin' ass on the ice? My chips will be placed Mrs. Obama (Donkey Mouth) was getting pissy and all up in her hubby's face that she couldn't be "Hillary" enough.
Just a hunch.
Mike
You got a problem with Daley leaving; huh CLOWN????
FOX NOISE is going down for Phone Hacking and Lying to the world eventually clown.
House Oversight Committee Chairman Darrell Issa (R-CA) has refused repeated calls to investigate News Corporation over alleged violations of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act tied to the British phone hacking scandal and allegations that the company hacked the phones of 9/11 victims’ families immediately after the tragedy. The investigations, Issa complains, would amount to “picking on [the] media.”
http://thinkprogress.org/politics/2011/09/20/323475/issa-dont-know-murdoch/
Speaking of @ss President Obama is a a Kick ASS President
Yes, Obama is a kick-ass President! Deal with it GOP...
[snip]
1) He killed Osama bin Laden
2) He passed the Lilly Ledbetter Act
3) He appointed a head to the Consumer Protection Agency during "recess"...screw you Mitch.
4) He passed a massive stimulus that basically saved gov union jobs and the economy in general. His stimuls was a direct infusion of cash for states to pay the wages and benefits of unionized government workers. He saved union jobs and I think that is awesome. A strong union worker makes for a strong private sector employee. I am a member of a union and I know Republicans would love for organized labor to just wither and die.
5) He opted to save the auto industry and all the union jobs associated with that sector. More union support. Do you think Mitt Romney would have saved those unions jobs? That was the GOP chance to effectively end organized labor in the private sector.
6) He has been a moral and decent man in the White House.
7) The simple historic nature of his race and his accomplishment to just get elected is still exciting to me. We can't let him be defeated. That would be a bad precedent, IMO.
8) He has remained calm and positive in spite of the tremendous hate and venom the conservatives have spattered at him.
9) I cannot think of a more liberal president in the last 40 years.
10) Obama has shown the ability to return America to it's position of prominence on the world stage since taking office. W Bush had shattered the image of America. W set the precendent of preemptive war. Obama rightly appologized to the world for the incompetence and arrogance of the W Bush admin and he was awarded the nobel peace prize for showing such humility and wisdom. Yes, Obama appologized for W Bush, @!$%# yes he did, and he was right to do it.
I could go on: he killed the pirates, he abolished don't ask don't tell, he has fought for unemployment insurance extension, he passed health care reform (risked his Presidency for people with a preexisiting condition, that was not easy to do) and finacial reform, he is an amazing speaker...love that especially compared to W Bush, he stood up for the unionized Boeing employees when Boeing retaliated against laboir and threatened to move a plant and kill thier jobs...The guy is a superstar for union labor.
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2012/01/09/1052927/-Yes,-Obama-is-a-kick-ass-President!-Deal-with-it-GOP?via=siderec
=====================================
Now tell me W-T-H a RepubliCON has done beside destroy the socio-economic fabric of America and stroke FEAR; CLOWN?
WOC and his pal Spanky are in the business of trying to control thread topics. They ask question after question and rarely answer any unless it is with another question. They are both self-proclaimed experts in their fields, and I don't believe either of them. I suspect that WOC is a car salesman at best.
At least you people never let me down. You are all pretty much pathologicalin your ignorance of what Obama really is.
You prove it here every day.
Jody doesn't care all of a sudden and Red Dev thinks it's gossip.
Ignore David, Ignore.
Keep your heads in the sand folks, it's gonna be a tough year for you Libs.
Complete with his plaid jacket & white patent leather loafers!
BTW: What happened to the kids?
Best analogy I have seen, ideology!
Ideology are you new here? First Thoughts is a place for just that, First Thoughts. Please go back and re-read the pre-written cut and past articles from your friends that have nothing to do with anything other than spreading propoganda from think Progress.
Apparently, today though, you all got together and made sure that the Romney comment would be all you wanted to talk about.
Too bad, I'm not going anywhwere. Keep up with the personal attacks. It makes you all look so smart.
Harder for Americans to Rise From Lower Rungs
January 4, 2012
Americans enjoy less economic mobility than their peers in Canada and much of Western Europe. The mobility gap has been widely discussed in academic circles, but a sour season of mass unemployment and street protests has moved the discussion toward center stage.
Despite frequent references to the United States as a classless society, about 62 percent of Americans (male and female) raised in the top fifth of incomes stay in the top two-fifths, according to research by the Economic Mobility Project of the Pew Charitable Trusts. Similarly, 65 percent born in the bottom fifth stay in the bottom two-fifths.
By emphasizing the influence of family background, the studies not only challenge American identity but speak to the debate about inequality.
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/01/05/us/harder-for-americans-to-rise-from-lower-rungs.html?_r=1&pagewanted=all
=============================================
YUP, That is what republiCONS want;Americans going to hell in a hand basket. They don't CARE because they are out of touch.
Whats the old adage?
Be nice to people on the way up because you may meet them on the way down
Mittens let me introduce you to the people who lost their jobs while you pocketed millions.
Bain Capital is really an advantage for Romney and should give opponents pause in attacking him for his association with it. Venture Capital is at the heart of a strong economy. When you start questioning it you end up questioning capitalism itself! This would also be a somewhat dangerous strategy for Obama given the still bad state of the economy..
VCs mirror the economy - some companies fail, some win big, some win really big. That's just the nature of business in a free market economy. But this is all in the private sector.
Much more questionable and controversial are the millions made by Santorum and Gingrich after their public service, peddling influence and lobbying...
@Feisty
The twins were cloned from NoJo's hair. They survived for a few hours but succumbed to a fatal lack of heart.
White Collar Auto
it's gonna be a tough year for you Libs.
Stiff Collar, Only if the republiCONS get in office. That ain't likely to happen.
Remember, Stiff Collar, had it not been for President Obama saving GM you would "NOT" have a job since the auto industy affects many other jobs in the industry.
The only person Romney should fire is that clown in the oval office.
barry sotero loves to fire people too.
....so what ?
Newtsapig - I agree with your assessment of VCs when they are used to allocate funds for business start-ups. They were used extensively to enable the founding of .com enterprises. However, VCs should not be used to describe Bain Capital, which is a corporate raider - a completely different animal.
Well, decided to sleep in this morning. Having my first cup of coffee and thought I would check in to see how excited all the folks on the right would be today about THEIR primary. Odd thing, seems after reading all these posts all they are excited about is calling liberals names and the President's COS. Not seeing anything about their candidates. Hmmm.
Happy Primary Day!
WCA - Come on Bev, David, Noid, Devie, Dennis...anyone.
What's your take on the third COS in a row for our President to come from Wall Street?
____
The first chief of staff left for political reasons. Emmanuel left for personal reasons to run for Mayor of Chicago. I was relieved as from my point of view his tempermanet and attitude was a major detriment to outreach. He not only angered and annoyed Republicans with his calculating scorched earth style and mannerisms, but he also angered progressives.
He was the guy who wrote off the public option for Health care even before negotiations began. He was the guy, as chief of staff, who advised Obama on every major issue. Interesting how every major issue from the stimulus to health care Obama shifted more and more away from the base that elected him.
Obama sensing Rahm's contentious personality, I'm sure was happy to see him go. The president thought that bringing in a 'Business guy' like Daley would make the GOP happy and allow more possible dealings with the GOP. Note after Daley came in you saw the President's commision headed by GE CEO was put in place to get ideas from business leaders. You saw Obama ask what regulations business would like to do away with. Over the last year you've seen Obama rein in the EPA, seen him sign off on a pipeline through natural wetlands, all notable wins for the business community.
The new COS comes from the Office of budged management. He is a numbers guy, who worked with Clinton to help balance and actually get a surplus in lieu of the annual deficits that are the norm.
I see Lew as not a political choice, but as a competent one. He knows all the players and the departments and will be a great asset.
Isn't it interesting that Mitt actually has accomplished things.
Mr. Obama, the Pipe Piper hasn't done a thing in the last 3 years! All he can spit out is negatives on the past!! No Record, No Leadership, No Chance!!
Mr. Vacation will be on permanant vacation soon!!
"What makes the Bain scrutiny -- in combination with the “pink slip” and “I like being able to fire people” lines -- so potentially damaging is that goes at the heart of the central rationale of his candidacy: private-sector experience."
There isn't a single successful businessman that has not had to 'fire' people on occasion. I'm sure Romney didn't personally 'fire' many people, but he made the policies that necessitated the actions as part of turning businesses around and saving them from bankruptcy, which would have resulted in everyone losing their jobs.
In a similar vein, should we hold Obama responsible for setting the policies that resulted in millions of workers losing their jobs, including tens of thousands in the government sector?
How were Romney's actions different from Obama's actions at SOLYNDRA, which resulted in 1,100 people losing their jobs, not to mention the cost to the taxpayers of over $500 Million.
The full quote in context:
Do people really think it is wise to attack a candidate for wanting people to have a choice in their health care decisions? This is a losing argument if the true quote gets the same traction that the portion taken out of context got.
Keep pushing the quote out of context. If the true entire quote gets traction you are in trouble. Apparently you all stand behind not being able to get different insurance or a different doctor if they don't meet your expectations. Everyone should have the health insurance that YOU decide they should have. Everyone should have the doctor that YOU decide they should have.
weaselyone,
And were you so adamant about the Romney ad against President Obama that took HIS quote out of context? Hmmmm?
Morning Phine, Morning every one!
Now that the crew is all here, are we all ready for the Republican Vs Neo-Con Show?
Weasely,
Even Mitts acknowledged it was a political mistake, a LARGE political mistake!
Good morning Egilman!
Should be an interesting day/evening. Who will the fine folks of New Hampshire choose and does it matter overall? And what will happen next as the show hits the road in the south? Inquiring minds want to know!!!!
weaselyone,
I have not seen the add so I cannot comment on it. Apparently the media didn't give it as much coverage. Hmmmm.....
Weasely,
I haven't seen him admit the mistake, perhaps it is coming out in the news today. His original quote is still something I would stand by.
Romney is weak if he thinks this was a mistake. He should take everyone to task for taking it out of context and stand behind the original message.
Weaselyone - Keep pushing the quote out of context. If the true entire quote gets traction you are in trouble.
Actually, it isn't us liberals that are pushing that attack right now, it is Rick Perry, Newt Gingrich and John Huntsman. Most of the liberals will admit the quote, when taken in context, isn't a big deal.
But so what? Did you see Romney's first TV advertisement? It was the ad that took Obama completely out of context in a manner so over the top that even Republicans were shaking their heads in disgust. According to Romney's team the ad was perfectly acceptable. They said something about sauce, geese and ganders, then they said all political advertisements were agitprop and that taking things totally out of context was fair game.
They've made their bed, now they get to sleep in it. I don't know if it is karma or justice, but either way I approve.
EPISODE V: THE NEWT STRIKES BACK!
(Sound up: Darth Vadar theme, DUMDUMDEEDUM.....)
"Having destroyed the Death Star (Newt) the Romney Alliance decides to move their base of operation in order to consolidate and prepare for the next encounter with the Emperor's forces.
Meanwhile, the Emperor is building a new Death Star (Santorum) and has planned a 3.5 million dollar buy on the planet Soutcarlina to destroy the Romney alliance once and for all...." (Slow fade, Darth Vadar theme)
Obviously Newt has been cast in a challenging double roll as both Emperor and the original Death Star. He wanted to be THE NEWT HOPE in Episode IV as a viable Romney alternative but that didn't work out. So now it's payback time! By critically injuring Romney in South Carolina he may set the stage for a Santorum surge and the birth of a NEW Death Star. The unanswered question is, who will play the all important Ewoks (The South Carolina Tea Party?) in Episode VI : THE RETURN OF THE DEAD GUY (Ron Paul).
Stay tuned space cadets......and drink your ovaltine.
Obama/Biden 2012
nisl,
Thanks for posting that. Was just getting my second cup of coffee! Hope you are having a fun primary day. Seems some on the right are more interested in attacking liberals in general and the President in particular than their own primary. Odd isn't it?
I looked and looked for a policy, a regulation, a bill whose aim was to eliminate millions of jobs. More right-wing propaganda?
WCA, it wasn't "all of a sudden" fella. You might read the rest of my comment and put the I don't care into context. What you did is exactly like taking the first four words of Mitt's comment and calling it complete.
Guest Post: “Why I’m leaving the Republican Party…and Endorsing President Obama”
Even worse, the Republican Party has bamboozled the American people by portraying themselves as the party of fiscal responsibility. Any person who can recognize that some numbers are larger than other numbers know the obvious fact that the biggest spending Presidents are Republicans. Ronald Reagan and George W. Bush alone are responsible for most of the national debt. Bill Clinton cut government and actually spent less money than was taken in…but George W. Bush quickly changed that.
I believe in smart government that effectively does what it should and leaves the rest to the private sector, while still recognizing the legitimacy of the existence of government. I believe in equal rights for all Americans, whether gay, straight, female, male, immigrant or naturally born. The Republican Party no longer believes in any of that.
No longer should the American people stand for the weak leadership and intellectual bankruptcy of the Republican Party. I’ll be voting for President Obama’s re-election.
http://thepoliticalcarnival.net/2012/01/08/guest-post-why-im-leaving-the-republican-partyand-endorsing-president-obama/
Seems some on the right are more interested in attacking liberals in general and the President in particular than their own primary. Odd isn't it?
If my party had a field of candidates as weak as the Republican's field I'd want to change the subject too. The enthusiasm Democrats have towards Obama may not be what it was in 2008, but it beats the heck out of the open disdain a large part of the Republican party feels towards Romney.
nisl,
Maybe it is fatigue from staying up late, but as my memory serves, we democrats were much more excited about our primaries four years ago than the poor folks on the right. Karma?
Guest Post: “Why I’m leaving the Republican Party…and Endorsing President Obama”
Even worse, the Republican Party has bamboozled the American people by portraying themselves as the party of fiscal responsibility. Any person who can recognize that some numbers are larger than other numbers know the obvious fact that the biggest spending Presidents are Republicans. Ronald Reagan and George W. Bush alone are responsible for most of the national debt. Bill Clinton cut government and actually spent less money than was taken in…but George W. Bush quickly changed that.
I believe in smart government that effectively does what it should and leaves the rest to the private sector, while still recognizing the legitimacy of the existence of government. I believe in equal rights for all Americans, whether gay, straight, female, male, immigrant or naturally born. The Republican Party no longer believes in any of that.
No longer should the American people stand for the weak leadership and intellectual bankruptcy of the Republican Party. I’ll be voting for President Obama’s re-election.
http://thepoliticalcarnival.net/2012/01/08/guest-post-why-im-leaving-the-republican-partyand-endorsing-president-obama/
==========================================
Yeah!!!
With all the Draconian ideas the Republicans have to take the back to pre-civil and pre-labor right days, I'm sure many more will leave the Clown Car Party. That's a good thing.
Let's get that CIRCUS off the road!!!
In order for an economy to succeed, the failing companies must be allowed to fail - which will result in layoffs. The flip side is, by not trying to prop up the poorly run companies by taking from the well-run companies, the well-run companies can continue to grow and employ more people. Yes, closing a company or getting laid off sucks at the time, but it's better to have that pain than to drag all companies and individuals down by propping up failed institutions. (and, yes, I was also against the wall street bailouts)
Phine - Karma? Sort of.
After 2008 pundits were questioning whether the GOP was dead. It looked bad for Republicans, but they hadn't hit bottom like they did after Goldwater. If they had they would have tacked back towards the center. Instead, they went far right and embraced/created the "Tea Party" movement.
The Tea Party was great for the GOP in that it revived their party and pumped enthusiasm back into the party. But it came at a cost. Post Tea Party Republicans needed to be far right, moderates were no longer welcome. This led to many primary fights and the fear amongst Republican politicians that any Republican not deemed "pure" was headed towards defeat at the hands of a Sharon Angle or Christine O'Donnell.
One of the big reasons, if not THE big reason, the Republican field of presidential candidates is so lame is the fear of the Tea Party kept viable candidates out of the competition.
nisl
Between the tea party and running against an incumbent president. Their viable candidates saw the writing on the wall. I think they maybe hoping for common sense to break out in their party. Good luck to them on that.
I think they maybe hoping for common sense to break out in their party. Good luck to them on that.
Well, you know, it wouldn't be the first time the GOP drove their bus off the wingnut-fringe cliff causing common sense to return. Many historians say that is exactly what happened following Goldwater's historic defeat.
But for that to happen the Republican Party has to hit bottom. If the Bush years didn't do that for them I don't know what will.
Yeah, why should Mitt get free pass. John Kerry was swift boated because his war record was better than that of Bush so they had to spread lies about his military record. What's ironic is now that they are on the receiving end it isn't funny anymore.
Some of you attack Obama for his association with people you don't like even though he isn't even the subject of the article but forget that it was all covered by Palin in 2008.
To White Collar Auto;
@ post 1.11, you wrote;
"Come on Bev, David, Noid, Devie, Dennis...anyone.
What's your take on the third COS in a row for our President to come from Wall Street?
Shouldn't this raise some questions? Doesn't it make you mad?
Get off last night's strategy session to beat Romney's 'taken out of context' comment into the ground and talk about something important for a change.
Chief of Staff to the President is a pretty important job. Why does Obama keep putting the very people he says ruined this country in that position?
Do you think that if you just ignore it, it will go away? (That is a softball, by the way)"
This is a well thought-out calculated move by Team Obama. A decision made so that Daley can run a Super-PAC for Obama. He can not run or collect money for a Super-PAC for Obama while COS.
I known that you like to think that it is gloom and doom when a change is made. Gibbs stepping aside was calculated, as is this move, as was all the others that stepped aside. There may be one or two that stepped down for personal reasons, but all were calculated.
NOW, on the other hand!
This video (rated R);
"The Truth About Republicans"
www.youtube.com/watch?v=VlKMy65dyz4&feature=related
kind of refreshs a persons memory regarding the Reagan era in the White House (1981-1989). Is this history going to repeat itself for a future Republican president? I wonder if any of this was taken out of context?
In context or out of context, telling America that you enjoy firing people at this time in our history is horrendous. It is obvious that in his private sector role he never hesitated to fire people. He is a power junky who no doubt does enjoy the act of firing people. No more on this issue needs to be said. Romney is running for the highest office in the land in very difficult times. It is easy to see he would just make things worse.
Roy Wilson
Although I will not agree with your proposition that Obama's policies are responsible for losing millions of private sector jobs, he is responsible for thousands of layoffs in the government sector. As government funding is cut, cheered on by the GOP by the way, government employees are fired. Even last month, 12,000 government/public sector workers lost their jobs.
Weaselyone - I think that taking Mitt's quote out of context is wrong - "I like being able to fire people who provide me services..." It is wrong to quote out of context, but who said politics is fair.
What does interest me is that these Republican rivals are attacking Romney for acting like a pure capitalist. Does it shock either of you that a GOP, like Huntsman or Gingrich would object to Romney's private sector corporate raiding?
For me it is a practice that a liberal would object to but a conservative would view as business as usual. Regarding GOP dogma, will Gingrich or other GOP rivals criticizing Romney be seen as hypocritical for going against what a private business should or shouldn't do?
RedDevPS "I looked and looked for a policy, a regulation, a bill whose aim was to eliminate millions of jobs."
Do you really think that the moratoriums on drilling for domestic oil did not cost jobs?
Do you really think delaying/cancelling the oil pipeline won't cost jobs?
Do you really think the new EPA regulations won't cost jobs?
Do you really think that the 81,000 pages of new regulations in Obama's first year (2009) didn't cost jobs? And the list goes on, and on, and on.
Two years after the recession of 1982 (that brought Jimmy Carter's 14% inflation under control), an average of 5,479,000 net new jobs were added, thanks to lower regulations and tax rates, and the economy grew by 21%. In the 2 years since the current recession ended in 2009, with Obama's talk about loads of new taxes on business people and tons of new regulations, we have added only a fraction of that, and the economic recovery is virtually non-existent.
By the way - The recession of 1982 was actually worse (in the decline of GDP in real terms) than the current recession. The drop in 1982 was 4.50%, but in the current 'Great Recession', it was only 3.89%. Don't believe all the media hype you hear.
Remember in kindergarten when you were taught to 'connect the dots'?
Ron, I agree, companies should be allowed to fail. However, they should not be forced into failure to profit a few corporate raiders. You're going to have to do better than that to defend the actions of Romney's Raiders.
Really tired of the collapses around here. That feature was not well thought out.
I am willing to bet "$10,00.00" Willard would sell out middle class America for a chance to be President. Oh wait, he already did. Well, then I bet that pink slip he almost got was written on toilet paper and Willard got a paper cut when he was wiping his royal anus. Most likely he has a hemorrhoid for all those sycophants he uses, to clean up after him, being a little too rough.
Here's what I do not understand, why is Bain Capitol and Mitts abolishing, of thousands of jobs, just being highlighted today? The guy has been screwing workers, out of their jobs for decades and it his skullduggery is just being brought to the forefront now?
The same goes for Efting Newt. (Before you collapse me, look up the word "eft" He is a liar, cheat and thief! And the Republicans want him to be their candidate for president?
While I'm at it, Ron Paul has a history of stating racist statements and I do not even want to go to his ideas about isolationism. But he can also be placed on the list of liars and thieves.
Rick Santorum is on video stating his feelings about blacks and his plans to dismantle Social Security and Medicare.
Here's my point, John Kerry was a true American hero, during his time in Viet Nam and yet, the Karl Roves of this world and even worse, John Kerry's own, thicker than water, Navy buddies, sabotaged him, with their "swift boat" lies and hatred, yet we know the true F-A-C-T-S, about these vermin, running for the GOP candidacy now and the Republicans are, pushing this garbage, as the "right stuff?"
Does anyone think God is proud of any of these creatures. I bet he is thinking, "Were did I go wrong?" First to let these subculture, elements of nature, to exist and secondly; to have people, who actually support this kind of ilk.
You know, I am not much of a believer, in the Mayan calender and it's prediction, the world will end, in December of 2012. But honestly, when one sees, where Republican politics are going; I would not blame God, for pulling the plug and watching the waste go down the drain.
Oh for honestly and full disclosure, I lost the $10,00.00, I wanted to bet. I trusted the financial advisers, where I worked. Bush was in office then. Busily deregulating the Banks, Wall Street and housing. Most of my 403b went down the drain, hopefully along with Mitt and his motley crew.
You libs think just because your daddy had a gleam in his eye one night that someone owes you an education, a high paying low value job, healthcare benefits, a pension, a house, 5 weeks vacation. Instead of earning your keep you want cradle to grave care from the productive members of society.
Yes, Romney had to fire people. They would have lost their jobs anyway but Ronmey and Bain got rid of the deadwood and tried to salvage the companies they were involved with. They were generally successful. Oh, and the horror of it all, he made money! A good share of which went to taking care of the dependent class.
If you are worried about Romney cuts, then what about obambie's military cuts?!?! obambie will put over a hundred thousand soldiers out of work....he fired them!! If unemployment benefits stimulate the economy then defense spending also is a stimulus except it doesn't go to one of his campaign fund bundlers or the dependant class. How many folks have left the workforce because of obambie's over regulation, debt and business uncertainty?? fearless leader is the real jobs destroyer.
Give the koolaid a rest and stop letting msnbc do your thinking for you!!
Well, Romney was once a gleam in his daddies eye, and guess what, that massive wealth he was born into guaranteed him an ivy league education, a high paying low value job, healthcare benefits, a pension, at least 2 million dollar houses, and unlimited vacation.
Care to use a different example because you had an epic FAIL on that one.
Willard, who is Willard? And looking at these threads I believe my Grampa was right when he said - At a family reunion NEVER discuss Politics or Religion. Either one of those can evoke a tongue lashing. The funny thing about those two subjects is neigher party discussing them is going to change the other persons mind anyway, so just be sociable and enjoy the B-B-Que.
@Roy
I'm not the one claiming millions of jobs - you are. And you haven't proven me wrong in the least. My original claim that your claim is nothing but hot-winded right-wing babble still stands.
WCO, Obama is a socialist that's why he hires wall street guys. Thanks for the line Sean Hannity, Mitch McConnell, Rush...That's why you should oppose his socialist agenda...Quack! Get off your hate at everything the half-white president does.
Beverly in Chicago
Bev, the bigot, and the cut and paste queen of the MSNBC liberals:
2) He passed the Lilly Ledbetter Act - and this is a good thing?
3) He appointed a head to the Consumer Protection Agency during "recess"...screw you Mitch. - Not a recess Bev. The Dems set the procedure some time ago, and Congress was still in session.
4) He passed a massive stimulus that basically saved gov union jobs and the economy in general. His stimuls was a direct infusion of cash for states to pay the wages and benefits of unionized government workers. He saved union jobs and I think that is awesome. A strong union worker makes for a strong private sector employee. I am a member of a union and I know Republicans would love for organized labor to just wither and die.
No Bev, he spent money that for the most part didn't accomplish much. What did he do for the private sector? Not much.......
5) He opted to save the auto industry and all the union jobs associated with that sector. More unionsupport. Do you think Mitt Romney would have saved those unions jobs? That was the GOP chance to effectively end organized labor in the private sector.
Those jobs would have been there had the auto companies file chapter 11. They wouldn't have been union jobs though. And the union expense was one of the reasons the auto companies failed.
6) He has been a moral and decent man in the White House. - Really? He's been more of an abject failure!
7) The simple historic nature of his race and his accomplishment to just get elected is still exciting to me. We can't let him be defeated. That would be a bad precedent, IMO. -
Continue to play the race card Bev, with his failed record that is all you have.
8) He has remained calm and positive in spite of the tremendous hate and venom the conservatives have spattered at him.
Oh Bev, he's done a fair job himself to displaly his ignorance, hasn't he?
9) I cannot think of a more liberal president in the last 40 years. -
Yep, by his own admission, he's the fourth greatest president of all time! Time will show him ranked behind Jimmy Carter.
10) Obama has shown the ability to return America to it's position of prominence on the world stage since taking office. W Bush had shattered the image of America. W set the precendent of preemptive war. Obama rightly appologized to the world for the incompetence and arrogance of the W Bush admin and he was awarded the nobel peace prize for showing such humility and wisdom. Yes, Obama appologized for W Bush, @!$%# yes he did, and he was right to do it. -
Bev, he hasn't taken merican forward, instead, he's continued to state we are the reason the world is in shame for previous actions of this nation. The Nobel Pease Prize was a sham. What has he done to be considered for this award?
I could go on: he killed the pirates, he abolished don't ask don't tell, he has fought for unemployment insurance extension, he passed health care reform (risked his Presidency for people with a preexisiting condition, that was not easy to do) and finacial reform, he is an amazing speaker...love that especially compared to W Bush, he stood up for the unionized Boeing employees when Boeing retaliated against laboir and threatened to move a plant and kill thier jobs...The guy is a superstar for union labor.
So again Bev, Obama is out there pulling the trigger to kill those pirates? Rather than working on improving the economy, he passed a HC bill that may be unconstitutional? What financial reform? He's spending more money during his administration than any other President with little factual results to show for it. And sueing Boeing for building a plant in SC? Do not companies have a right to build and grow where ever they choose?
The guy isn't a superstar for the unions Bev, he is owned by the unions. Or Moooooochele is and he answers to her!
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2012/01/09/1052927/-Yes,-Obama-is-a-kick-ass-President!-Deal-with-it-GOP?via=siderec
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Now tell me W-T-H a RepubliCON has done beside destroy the socio-economic fabric of America and stroke FEAR; CLOWN?
The bottom line in elections is representation. Not one of the GOP/TP wannabes would represent all Americans, and in fact would represent only about 30% at best.
You have the extreme right social conservative positions to the point of making contraceptives illegal let alone reversing Roe v. Wade, the neocon hawks who want to go back into Iraq and start a new war with Iran, and the fiscal extremists (Ron Paul has never done better) who want to abolish government to the point of anarchy and protect the rich and corporations to the point of a Gilded Age of plutocracy. They've gone so far to the Right they are off the cliff--Insane.
In every way possible it is a Race to the Bottom with Teapublicans. Anyone with Rule of Reason doing a little critical thinking would ask the following questions:
1) Wages have already been stagnant for decades, so why would we want to off-shore more jobs, bust unions, and lay off more workers in government? The reason there is no hiring is because there is no demand. There is no demand because the few Americans who still have jobs no longer have disposable income relative to inflation. Why would we want to damage this further? It's not just about "liberals" wanting job creations, it's about hurting business and capitalism in the long run!
2) A recent news story about Farrai owners in Italy not paying taxes brings home the point that the real problem here at home is people and corporations aren't paying taxes. At the minimum all tax credits need to go away to end the rampant cheating. St. Reagan figured this out, yet no one in the current Teapublican Party has the brains or integrity to own up to this.
3) Teapublicans clamor non-stop for smaller government. Yet they want to impose drug tests and ultra-sounds and suspend rights like birth control even habaes corpus due process. Santorum was very much involved in the Terri Schiavo intervention for conservatives with convenient memory loss. You call this small/limited government, really, seriously?
4) Hawks who talk about cuts in spending are also great big hypocrites. Anyone with half a brain knows we spend way too much of GDP on the military industrial complex. Even in regard to Iraq, private contractors are still there and they cost two to three times more than military personnel. We know where funds for Teapublicans come from: Wall Street (Romney), Big Oil (anyone from Texas), the military industrial complex, and Big Pharma.
Romney represents Wall Street and making money at the expense of others rather than the original purpose of raising capital for new ventures (only about 14% of what Wall Street now does), he is not trustworthy, he cannot represent the average American economically, nor in regard to religion, or foreign policy, and is "snippy" if he is not surrounded by "yes men."
Santorum represents the Terri Schiavo intervention, the military industrial complex war-mongering, and Wal-Mart's Chinese goods. He pretends to talk about jobs, but is the epitome of Teapublican priorities of abortion and gay marriage and could care less about the economy and the middle class.
Gingrich is the grandfather of Hate Speak, wedge issues, blackmail/hostage-taking and every form of divisiveness, as well as sex scandals, the revolving door, lobbying and everything that is wrong with Washington.
Ron Paul is a century or two too late, Huntsman is a slightly more palatable version of Romney, and Buddy Roemer will never get the time of day. All and all it is apparent the Teapublican platform is an old, failed ideology yet these clowns still cling to God, guns, and voodoo economics. Enough.
If only to prevent additional far Right appointments to the Supreme Court, throw the Teapublicans out -- Obama/Biden - 2012!
I agree with you that failing companies should not be artificially propped up.
The question that Romney is going to have to answer is this: Did Bain Capital deliberately destroy viable companies just to make a buck?
Did Romney take his millions out of the pockets of workers whose companies could have been successful under new management and/or restructuring?
Did Bain Capital take companies that were undervalued, break them up and sell off the pieces as a cold-hearted, ruthless business strategy?
That would not be an uncommon way to do business in America. But it sure wouldn't make Romney look like the good guy job creator he has portrayed himself to be.
I hope Romney gets asked the hard questions, and I hope he isn't allowed to weasel out of answering them with his 'pious baloney'.
TruePatriot, yours was an excellent post! I hope everyone reads it.
In the end, it comes down to this:
Do we want an America where everyone- everyone, no matter what race, religion, region, or economic background- gets a good public education and has the opportunity to do his/her best on a level playing field?
Or do we want a country where greed and ruthlessness rule, where only the strong can survive in a dog-eat-dog free-for-all?
Republicans want the latter. They want a Darwinian-style economic system...ironic, since so many of them claim not to believe in Darwin's theories.
Obama has made it his primary goal to strengthen America's middle class, the REAL engine that powers this country. Look at any other country on the planet and it is clear that those with an economically healthy middle class are the strongest and most prosperous countries. Those with huge gaps between rich and poor with no middle class, countries like Bangladesh, are not economically or militarily viable.
Our choice is to support the middle class or to support the rich. It's that simple.
"What the hell do you really want?"
He wants the same thing the scarecrow wanted...a brain and he has no heart like the tin man wanted....
Wonderful, intelligent exploration from the Obama supporters; more angry, unsubstantiated, distorted phlegming from the Anti-Obama set. No matter how many times the right disparages liberals or spews redmeat lies, they don't get any smarter, more factual or more believable. It turns out that the majority of Americans are rational and can tell they've been had.
The public hypocrisy displayed so often by the GOPeeps in recent years has finally taken it's rightful toll. See, money can buy ads full of distortions but it can't buy the votes of those of us who remember the failed policies of the right and who see through the lies in the current primary.
The first returns are 11 votes - 8 for repugs = 72.7% and 3 for the POTUS =27.2%. And this primary is just for repugs and maybe independents. Not a good sign for the repugs, not a good sign at all.
amused -
Today is also a democrat primary today in NH...no cares because there is no one competing with BO. So if the prez only got three, it doesn't look good for him.
@Amused
I agree about the collapses. A few weeks ago I suggested, both privately and publicly, to the Newsvine moderators that they look into changing the thread.
I suggested that they allow us to have three choices, "Agree", "Disagree", "Ignore". If you agree with the poster or like what they said you can check the appropriate box. The "Ignore" function is just like it is now.
ONLY THE MODERATORS would be able to collapse a comment for violations of the Code.
I don't collapse comments, I "Ignore" the poster. That allows others to read and respond to the commentator but I don't have to be bothered with them.
I don't know how many dozens of regular posters I have on "Ignore" but it's a lot. It's like FOX News. I don't watch FOX News or listen to Rush Limbaugh or the rest of the hate radio crowd. I don't want to read hate comments either. But for those of you who WANT to read them, discuss them and argue about them, you may. I don't think I, or anyone else, should have the power to collapse them just because I don't agree with them.
Anyway, I made that suggestion and I got ONE, count it, ONE piece of feedback and nothing else.
I know it's a hassle having to rebuild the Newsvine thread mechanics. But these collaspeaholics are out of control and something needs to be done about it.
Obama/Biden 2012
Beverly in Chicago, just one thing. Obama was moral and decent - until this past November, when he signed legislation to allow the marketing of horse meat for human consumption.
John, Tucson - My aren't you touchy. Can you already see the writing on the wall? Ro-money has the luxury of not having to worry about being fired, but much more so about not being hired at all(like never).
Not touchy at all...just correcting your inaccurate statement that you made.
If you stay current on the democrat primaries, you may not be so distracted.
RedDevPS "@Roy I'm not the one claiming millions of jobs"
Here are some FACTS to consider;
People employed in 2000 (Clinton's last year) = 136,891,000.
People employed in 2008 (Bush II's last year) = 145,362,000. A gain of 8,471,000 jobs.
People employed in 2010 (After 2 years of Obama) = 139,064,000. A LOSS of 6,298,000 jobs.
The link to the government's Bureau of Labor Statistics site to verify the information is;
http:www.bls.gov/cps/cpsaat.pdf
Not as many as Mr. Obama yesterday.
Your Avatar stinks.
Thanks for caring, unfortunately I don't.
Nice Avatar, was the KKK having a sale?
Tell ya what Devie.....This bad-ass av will come down and I'll replace it with the official White house photo of our beloved President as soon as you post the link of you lambasting Feisty "girly_bits" Redhead for her offensive av.
I'm certain you don't wanna be labeled as a hypocrite....do you?
Deal?.....awesome, I'll be sitting over here waiting with bated breath.
Nisl.....you're a moron.....how is Obama as the joker racist?.....but nice try idiot
Michael - I feel for you, you are obviously the product of inbreeding. I'm amazed someone of your limited intellect can turn on a computer, much less type.
If you don't realize why Obama in white face is racist then you are the moron. You should go back to bed, kiss your sister and attempt once again to make certain that your family tree has no branches.
You know what offends me more than avatars? The Fox "news" devotees ignorance of the word "parody". Do look it up and understand that it is protected.
As for Michael? Ignore. Not worth the time.
LMAO nisl......that was some good stuff there!
But heres da thang.....All clowns are in white face.....kinda defeats the purpose of calling them clowns if they didn't.
Seriously, grow up and quit being overly sensative.....and put your big girl panties on.
Michael 1969 you questioned my believability in the Fight Night in Exeter, as Romney and Christie tangle with Occupy Protesters thread and I replied to you, are you going to finish what you started, can you back up what you say or is it just more swoop and poop, but no answers or further discussion when challenged about your opinions being stated as if they were facts. That was at least the second time you came in strong I reply and you drop the thread like a hot potato, I am waiting for your defense of republicans. I have to leave soon for an appointment I'll check back in a few hours to see if you care to further defend your statements on that that thread or not.
Michael - So what you are saying is you are a racist troglodyte who likes displaying racist images? That is obvious to everyone that sees your avatar.
Go back to Stormfront where you belong.
Correction.....you meant with the typical FR left-wing loon crowd. That's why you, I and the rest on here are considered political "hacks".
No matter what "our side" does we will defend.
The debt ceiling debate is a great example.
The right had noooo problem when Bush wanted it raised and then Senator Obama vehemently opposed it.
Fast forward to today.....The right are all up in arms that Obama wants to sky-rocket our debt and Obama is now asking for more debt.
See? Hypocricy = Political hacks.....kinda like you having a problem with a lame pic from me but not someone that sides with your causes.
I have confidence that one day you'll get it!
Michael, your avatar does not offend me simply because it is free speech; your words reflect your avatar, also free speech. I think your avatar shows everyone who visits First Read or Newsvine who and what you really are; it isn't a pretty picture you present to others and most likely, their opinion will not be favorable.
Michael - I get it. You are a racist turd. What is not to get?
You might as well change your avatar to a swastika, or maybe a picture of a white hood.
I am terribly sorry Mr. Grump. I had NOOO idea you were still sitting there waiting for my wisdom. You see, I have to work sometimes so as to make money and pay taxes. My taxes help people like, well, most on here with their free wi-fi access. Someone's gotta pay the pay bills. Right?
Anywho, next time you and I are into a "hot potatoe" discussion, I'll make sure I get your permission to cease my end of the discussion. M'kay?
LOL....I have NOOOO defense of the Republicans.....I'm a conservative first. If a Democrat were more conservative than a Republican on a ballot, they'd get my vote.
i like my avatar and intensely dislike the gop candidate that bears a remarkable resemblance to it...
This is, perhaps, the biggest non-story FIRST READ has covered to date.
How about some coverage of Obama's relationships with Tony Rezko, and William Ayers? Those are REAL stories the media hasn't delved into enough.
Last night I watched Rachel Mad-Cow blame John Hunstman for the negative attack ad's in which his own adopted kids were used. The people who did that are SICK, anyone who would suggest that he did it to himself is SICKER!
Just when I thought F.R. was going to get it's $#!+ together, and start reporting fairly, you bare your @$$ again, and show us what kind of clowns you really are.
Yeah that's what I thought Michael.
I've made my peace with Michael1969's choice of avatar. To me, it represents exactly the hate President Obama has been confronted with since before he took the oath of office. They hounded him over his birth certificate, Republicans circulated racist emails ridiculing his wife, a right-wing Representative heckled him during a State of the Union speech - and now Michael chooses to display his opposition to Obama with this disgusting picture. Well, at least we know what kind of hater we are dealing with.
1-Mitt
2-Paul
3-Newton
4-Huntsman
5+-who cares...
Everybody goes to SC anyway...
MSM really sucks for the way they play the first 3-4 primaries as being "all-important" or that winning two tiny states with a handful of delegates makes someone "unstoppable. It's like they're deliberately avoiding the fact that this is the first time that the Republican primaries are not winnner-take-all, so it's all about the DELEGATE count, to over-hype each contest.
How many delegates will the WINNER tonight get?
How many for 2nd?
Ron Paul could be a KINGMAKER at the Republican convention, because he will have a boatload of DELEGATES, something he never could have hoped for before the change when you had to WIN to garner a SINGLE delegate. This HUGE change in the process could make the Republican primaries like the last night of the MLB season 2011, pure excitement!
Obama is a joker, giving you left wingers more of that koolaid to keep drinking while he systematically destroys the Constitution bit by bit.
You're kidding, right? You're probably the only one who still wants to talk about stuff like that. Get over it.
Only 10-11 posts attacking some guy over his choice of avatar? At least some of the free speech crowd attacked the guys parentage, racial attitudes, membership in racist organizations, etc...
Did you know that the ACLU defended the American Nazi Party's right to march in Skokie Illinois in 1977?
Did you know that the purpose of the "free-speech" part of the 1st Amendment was to protect UNPOPULAR speech?
Why can't you outwit (Lampoon, satirize) these types rather than descending to their level (or beneath it) with petty personal attack? You ELEVATE your opponent when you stoop to their level...
J.Merle, that dog didn't hunt in 2008, it still won't in 2012. There was and remains "no there, there".
Prohibition doesn't Work--neither does abstinence only.
Michael1969
LOL....I have NOOOO defense of the Republicans.....I'm a conservative first. If a Democrat were more conservative than a Republican on a ballot, they'd get my vote.
Hey Mick,
You're a bigger CLOWN THAN iI thought. RepubliCONS will intrude on every aspect of a person's liberty; including try to invade a woman's vagina by overtutning Roe v Wade; and get in bed with same sex couples.
Don't forget all the regulations, and government agengies they want to to get rid of including education which you teribly need. You know fracking caused the bridge in Ohio to collaspe. Yet you fools wnt to drill, drill, drill, drill, with out any regulations I guess katrina meant nothing to you fools.
You fools don't FEMA to give diaster victims help. You're all a bunch of sickos. climate chance will get you fools
This ain't nuttn' but a thang. Mitt's still bustin' Barry straight up, aight?
dangerfield,
Good morning. So you don't think that a Huntsman last minute "surge" is in the cards for today (looking at post 2.18)? As for the gentleman's avatar - well, living in the south, while I see much I disagree with (confederate flag, kkk rallies, etc.), you are right it is free speech. And I will use my common sense to put his silliness and cry for attention out of my mind.
thank you John,
That's another thing about Mitts, he couldn't see the target with the hubble telescope from two feet away....
dangerfield: much to my surprise, I agree with you again. Avatars may tell us about the person posting, but I don't see them as something to get that rattled about. There was a whole thread from Fox "news" cultists offended by Feisty's. And some of the things that were said were much more inflammatory than any avatar could be.
I don't understand wasting space on avatars.
typo corrections
You fools don't want FEMA to give diaster victims help. You're all a bunch of sickos. Climate chance will get you fools
Hey!! Bev "Resist We Much".....LTNS
You must mean like when Mr. Obama signed the Defense Authorization Bill on 12-31-11 allowing indefinite military detention without trial.....
......those civil liberties? or just civil liberties Republican stomp out?
Show me you're not a hack by saying, "Yes, Mike. An attack on our civil liberties by ANY politician is wrong and dangerous."
C'mon now Bev....I know ya's got it in ya!
more typo corrections
Hey Mick,
You're a bigger CLOWN THAN I thought. RepubliCONS will intrude on every aspect of a person's liberty; including trying to invade a woman's vagina by overturning Roe v Wade; and getting in bed with same sex couples to monitor their acts.
Don't forget all the regulations, and government agencies you want to to get rid of including education which you terribly need. You know fracking caused the bridge in Ohio to collaspe. Yet you fools want to drill, drill, drill, drill, with out any regulations I guess Katrina meant nothing to you fools. You want no regulations on foods and drugs. Maybe when you CLOWNS start dying off as resulut of you pig headedness or drop off a cliff due to climate change you'll get the picture.
You are all fools who don't want FEMA to give diaster victims help. You're all a bunch of sickos. Climate chance and lack of regulations will get all you fools
Phine-
Actually I do think it's (Huntsman 2nd) possible, based on the last minute reporting and Huntsman capitalizing on his "Reagan moment"...
NDD-
Yes, EVERYONE is always surprised if they agree with my views, especially "again"...lol
Imagine if you had to refute your opponents points with logic, humor and scholarship...Cue to John Lennon and that white baby grand...
Dangerfield
A good point, how is it that an 8 vote win in a sparsely, homogeneous state like Iowa gives Romney such a surge? It is all the media. Why don't they play up the fact that unlike other cycles, delegates count and not 8 vote wins? Right now Romney, Paul and Santorum are tied with 7 delegates.
My predictions for NH - Romney, Paul, Huntsman a close third, Gingrich a distant fourth, Santorum then Perry.
Unfortunately, people still see a win as a win and they will give their money and momentum to that individual. You could have a point Paul at the convention could get a big prime time speaking slot for his support, or he could push his extreme economic views into Romney's platform.
A top Gingrich supporter can give up to $25 million by himself. Newt's super pac is licking thier chops. On the other side Obama will spend his hundreds of millions as well via the DNC, and his super pacs. This surely is what happens when you have super pacs allowed to spend big time. No accountability on campaign finances. Private sector millionaires manipulating the system, lessening the voter's power.
http://articles.latimes.com/2011/sep/29/opinion/la-oe-turley-civil-liberties-20110929
Obama: A disaster for civil liberties
Op-Ed
He may prove the most disastrous president in our history in terms of civil liberties.
September 29, 2011|By Jonathan Turley
With the 2012 presidential election before us, the country is again caught up in debating national security issues, our ongoing wars and the threat of terrorism. There is one related subject, however, that is rarely mentioned: civil liberties.
Protecting individual rights and liberties — apart from the right to be tax-free — seems barely relevant to candidates or voters. One man is primarily responsible for the disappearance of civil liberties from the national debate, and he is Barack Obama. While many are reluctant to admit it, Obama has proved a disaster not just for specific civil liberties but the civil liberties cause in the United States.
President Obama not only retained the controversial Bush policies, he expanded on them. The earliest, and most startling, move came quickly. Soon after his election, various military and political figures reported that Obama reportedly promised Bush officials in private that no one would be investigated or prosecuted for torture. In his first year, Obama made good on that promise, announcing that no CIA employee would be prosecuted for torture. Later, his administration refused to prosecute any of the Bush officials responsible for ordering or justifying the program and embraced the "just following orders" defense for other officials, the very defense rejected by the United States at the Nuremberg trials after World War II.
Obama failed to close Guantanamo Bay as promised. He continued warrantless surveillance and military tribunals that denied defendants basic rights. He asserted the right to kill U.S. citizens he views as terrorists. His administration has fought to block dozens of public-interest lawsuits challenging privacy violations and presidential abuses.
But perhaps the biggest blow to civil liberties is what he has done to the movement itself. It has quieted to a whisper, muted by the power of Obama's personality and his symbolic importance as the first black president as well as the liberal who replaced Bush. Indeed, only a few days after he took office, the Nobel committee awarded him the Nobel Peace Prize without his having a single accomplishment to his credit beyond being elected. Many Democrats were, and remain, enraptured.
Beverly,
Michael1969, clown face and all got you on a good point about our liberties and you responded like a typical "volunteer" poster for Obama. Seems to be a lot of those here in particular. What was that story I read about Obama hiring hundreds of teens for the election, seems most are posters. Unfortunately they don't have any understanding of the real world, our Constitution or the danger of what is happening in Washington on both sides to our continued life in our country as it has been but could end up not ever being again. All most of these posters cling to is the tired blame games against Fox news, tea party, republicans and anyone who does not go along with them are racists. Sad commentary on our education system. Maybe Daley is leaving the Whitehouse to go back to Chicago to run a posting center.
Yellowdog,
I think this is where we cue John Lennon. Imagine no superpacs, no big money, just logic, humor and scholarship. Dangerfield is right on!!!!!!
Then again there's Paul....Simon that is...
"Sitting on a sofa on a Sunday afternoon
Going to the candidates debate
Laugh about it, shout about it
When you've got to choose
Ev'ry way you look at it, you lose"
source: http://www.lyricsondemand.com/
dangerfield,
Ah, yes, so here's to you, Mrs. Robinson.........
Love it!!!!! Time to dig out my iPhone and Pandora!!!
Beverly,
You might want to try decaf coffee after 9am.
So Prohibition and Michael1969 you are either Ron Paul Civil Liberty guys or you are conservatives that are angry with Obama following and expanding on Bush's policies. Which is it?
From my Jan 3rd post -
Happy New Year. Welcome 2012. Say good bye to more of our rights. The right to a trial, to knowing your charges, to having a speedy trial.
Posted in this thread since I know that Ron Paul is strong on civil liberties. In my book he his is right on many of his foreign policy ideas as well. However, I don't support his economic policies at all.
As Edward R. Murrow would say - "Good night and good luck"
________
Per ABC news
"In his last official act of business in 2011, President Barack Obama signed the National Defense Authorization Act from his vacation rental in Kailua, Hawaii. In a statement, the president said he did so with reservations about key provisions in the law — including a controversial component that would allow the military to indefinitely detain terror suspects, including American citizens arrested in the United States, without charge...
____
Obama added a signing statement but it can be ignored by other administrations. You realize that this supercedes the posse comitatus act because
Posse Comitatus Act - A law enacted in 1878 to prohibit the use of the U.S. army in civilian law enforcement, unless otherwise instructed by the president...
__
The thing I find puzzling is that posters like you only find fault in the politician in the party you are against but not with anything that your own politicians do or propose.
Perhaps you shouldn't be so quick to call out others for their strict allegiance to their beliefs if you always keep to your own strict adherence to your own party.
While you're "digging" don't forget;
Who-"Won't get Fooled Again"
CCR- "Fortunate Son"
Beatles "Revolution"
For a start...
Hmmm...anyone able to "chip in" with other Politically themed tunes for a Primary Tuesday?
Patsy Cline - "Crazy"
Oops, my bad. :)
O'Jays - "For the love of Money"
Darn, keep thinking of all these songs that show my cynicism about this. I will work harder.
This is a well thought-out calculated move by Team Obama. A decision made so that Daley can run a Super-PAC for Obama. He can not run or collect money for a Super-PAC for Obama while COS.
I known that conservatives like to think that it is gloom and doom when a change is made. Gibbs stepping aside was calculated, as is this move, as was all the others that stepped aside. There may be one or two that stepped down for personal reasons, but all were calculated.
NOW, on the other hand!
This video (rated R);
"The Truth About Republicans"
www.youtube.com/watch?v=VlKMy65dyz4&feature=related
kind of refreshs a persons memory regarding Ronny Raygun's era in the White House (1981-1989). Is this history going to repeat itself for a future Republican president? I wonder if any of this was taken out of context?
dangerfield -
I'll stick with some more Paul Simon:
"For I have squandered my resistance on a pocketful of mumbles;
such are promises.....all lies and jest.
Still, a man hears what he wants to hear and disregards the rest"
Yellowdog, if the other candidates all stand for a continuation of "corporate enslavment of the masses" policies, (which is the real reason they are busy stripping away our civil liberties), yet theres only one candidate that says "NO!, we can't do this to our citizens' rights!", are his economic policies really going to be what holds you back?
Not to mention all other candidates are more of the same warmongering ideaology that put us into an economy that teeters on the brink of disaster, he has been saying for years that this would be the result, and noone listened to him, turns out he was right all along.
Ron Paul 2012!
Revolution is the perfect choice!
Ron Paul r3VOLution '12!!!
Still, a man/woman hears what they want to hear and disregards the rest"
---------------------------------------------------------
"The Boxer"
That's a perfect description of 85% of what goes on here...:)
Sorry Michael1969, That isn't going to happen by either you or me. I have already posted what I think of Feisty's Avatar on january 4th in this post #218.20 - Wed Jan 4, 2012 1:28 PM EST.
http://nbcpolitics.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2012/01/04/9949311-perry-stays-in-race-tweets-here-we-come-south-carolina?commentId=61245366#c61245366
Michael, Don't worry I could careless if you change your Avatar. The Joker or Al Jolson it still stinks!
BTW Does Feisty's Avatar offend you because you believe that FOX News is Fair and Balanced? Sorry, to tell you it's not. Thanks.
You want the other side YD-Mark? The GOP, with the Tea Parties help, elected dozens of GOP Representatives and Senators last year. They were elected to streamline government and start chipping away at the massive deficits. So how has that worked out again? Obama, after getting the debt ceiling raised this past summer, will ask for that same debt ceiling to be raised again in a few weeks. I don't see McConnell or Boehner doing much to slow the spending down. If they won't do it, we need someone that does.
There are the old school Democrats and Republicans in Congress, and their members include McConnell and Boehner. There is some new blood in Congress, the Tea Party Reps and Senators like Marco Rubio and Rand Paul, but there are not enough of them in leadership positions to make difference.
As far as Romney goes, he has the look and feel of the old school pol, but we better hope he finds some fiscal conservatism if elected, because we know Obama will spend the country to a $20+ trillion dollar debt if he gets 4 more years. God help us all if Romney does the same.
A fair enough question, except that to say "this party or that party" with todays neocon politicians is to drink their kool aid, the reality is that they're ALL the same, Romney=Obama=Bush2=Santorum. They're all the same Republicrat candidate, except the one true conservative that believes in the document our founding fathers left for us. Alot of posters on here throw the term conservative around like its a bad thing (and in the cases of the neocon "conservatives" they're right), but the truth is that Dr. Paul is a conservative in the same spirit as George Washington and Thomas Jefferson, and that is what made our country great once. It will take a true conservative in their same spirit to do it again.
"the attacks give Team Romney a head start to parry these charges in a general election"
The best possible spin available ... Cain may have felt the same way!!!! But now he's out of the race & on his bus tour named "the Touchy Feely Express"!
Prohibition - "NO!, we can't do this to our citizens' rights!", are his economic policies really going to be what holds you back?
If you mean, are his economic policies going to keep me from supporting Paul? Yes it will. Consider me a Kucinich type liberal who is to the left of the President. Although I laud Paul's stance on civil liberties and most foreign policy, IMO he takes it to the extreme on the economic front and the role of government.
As you are a Ron Paul supporter you can deflect some of the usual barbs a typical liberal would throw your way. But that is not the reason I will not throw any at you. Your candidate is not the same ol candidate and does have ideas that would go against the status quo, but cutting 1 trillion in one year and disbanding five government departments from the get go? I don't see it possible that the private sector can do the jobs that he proposes cutting. Politically, he couldn't get his own agenda passed even through a soon to be GOP dominated Congress. He has only been able to pass a few sponsored bills in his entire tenure in Congress.
JoAnna - After the debt ceiling debacle a super committee was created, I agree it was a sham tactic. However, everyone agreed to it. Now that cuts have to be made, agreed to cuts are on the table. The GOP have decried the military cuts but don't worry the liberals will have plenty to bemoan once other cuts are put into place.
Da Noid - Bill AYERS should be tried as a terrorist.
JoAnna - I think if Obama wins in 2012. Rand Paul and Marco Rubio ticket would be hard to beat. I would not support them, however I do not see an energizing ticket on the democratic side that could beat them since Hillary has said she wouldn't make another go.
Concerning deficits, they are a product of spending more then you tax. If taxes continue to be reduced as both parties pander, it doesn't matter how much spending is cut.
By the way, If Romney does win and continues to spend does the Tea Party primary a sitting president?
There are no cuts being made. Hence the need to increase the debt ceiling. 6 months. That's how long it took to burn through the August debt ceiling raise.
Yes it does. Mark, one way or another this gets settled. Either we elect people that manage the problem, or at some point the credit rating agencies and bond holders manage it for us. It's our choice, at least right now it is. Soon enough it won't be. See the EU for details.
***DING, DING DING!!!***
Welcome to Round 2 in New Hampshire!
My prediction:
1. Romney
2. Huntsman
3. Paul
4. Santorum
5. Gingrich
6. Perry
I have a feeling it will be Newt Hampshire... well, maybe not, just liked the opp to use Newt Hampshire.
My prediction,
Mitts in a squeaker over Dr Paul, Huntsman in a distant but solid third.....
The rest are irrelevant.
I'm rooting for Rick Perry to beat Blingrich!!!
If Huntsman beats Paul it will be a great victory for Huntsman, validating his strategy of putting all his chips on NH. The question for Huntsman is, "What next?"
If Mitt wins all of the marbles, he is going to have the fight of his life against President Obama. The Bain days will bite him hard.
dangerfield,
I just don't see Huntsman playing well in the southern states, though I could be wrong. Maybe in Florida where we have such a wide voting pool (tea party, seniors, snowbirds, latinos, etc).
JOb1
Is that job one as in the economy is job 1? Hasn't been for the last three years unless you count destroying jobs as its intention.
That comment about liking being able to fire people could be taken as a very astute business attitude. You see when one is in a position to decide if one should be fired then one is in a position to insure the best people are retained and the Peter Principal losers are removed. Anyone who isn't of a Nanny State mentality would see that is how a bad company is turned around and a good company made great. Of course few democrats understand the principal of striving to be the best and the brightest. Since most of the posters on here would no doubt the the ones frustrating anyone NOT in a position to see them gone by being anchors on the system, not contributors, most of you won't get it. It seems anything to do with competition, race for excellance or anything that points out the abilities of individuals has been squashed in your education. Elsewise you could never be willing to have the government take care of you and tell you when to drink a soda and how much salt to put on your potatoes while they pass laws to make it possible to lock you up just as is done in dictatorships with no recourse. God save us from stupidity.
Something awesome about people learning how to not be so selfish and self centered is completely lost on the loons from the right. It also cracks me up every time I see a righty grumbling about something in the "Patriot" act. You guys will OWN that one until someone who realizes that selling out your freedom in the name of safety is insane gets over 60 votes A little hint, it won't be the party of Fear.
He tried to tell Perry and Santorum not to run but they couldn't here over their egos.
Yes I agree, while saving us from the Republican Party and their stupidity.
Who'd a thunk it? The Weathervane of Bain stuck his foot in it is right. Thanks for the sound bite Mit Wit!
baraak h obama like to fire people too.
...he fired daley yesterday.
No Daley quit.
He doesn't like to hang around with losers!!!
He saw the writing on the wall and didn't want to be out front when the end comes in November.
It also means that if they do not turn enough profit, you can fire them.
I like being able to fire people who work hard but through no fault of their own are just are not making enough profit to pay off my investor friends.
If those employees cannot bring in enough profit to pay the stock dividends, then I'm going to shut the company down and find some Chinese guys who can pay those dividends.
With Mitt it is all about what he does, not what he says.
TO: keck who wrote:
Maybe, but that's NOT what they said in the news.
At least President Obama hasn't stood by and watched millions of people lose their jobs and their homes every month like Republicans did, AND Republicans caused the financial collapse in the first place.
Obama / Biden 2012
I may not agree with Buddy Roemer's politics or policy but he was correct on one critical point when he spoke on Morning Joe this morning...
The SuperPACs have completely hijacked the primary process.
...and it looks like Newton can't cry poverty any more since he got that $5M check to run Bain Capital: The Movie.
Thank you, Supreme Court!
Da Noid, good one.
Citizens United was the worst Supreme Court decision in modern times. When President Obama politely chastised the Court, the GOP went ballistic. Newt Gingrich saw no problem with "corporations are people, too, my friend". While republicans defended the concept, they failed to recognize the flaw in unleashing the powerful and wealthy unchecked into our political system, with no rules for disclosure--it could and would be used by their own candidates against their own candidates.
I'm a conservative and can easily agree with this one.... No Brainer!
Poll: 58% of Republicans want more presidential choices
The survey finds that 58 percent of Republican primary voters want more presidential choices, while just 37 percent say they are satisfied with the current field. The percentage of Republican primary voters that wants more choices has increased 12 percentage points since October.
http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-503544_162-57355532-503544/poll-58-of-republicans-want-more-presidential-choices/
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Who do they want? Chris Christie? Sarah Palin? Tim Tebow? No, there's one name I keep hearing, over and over from Republicans and Conservatives...
J-E-B...
Noid,
I have a problem with Super PACS as well, but as far as them hijacking the process, I disagree. The process ultimately is a voter, alone in a booth, facing a ballot. Nobody is holding a gun to the voter's head, nobody is holding out a wad o' cash to the voter.
Essentially the bazillions of dollars spent by candidates, PACs, etc.. in campaigns go into advertising. Much of that advertising is manipulative nonsense. In this day and age there is such easy access to so much information - much of it nonsense as well, but being a voter carries the responsibility of being informed. It really does not take a great deal of effort - indeed, it is a terrific exercise - to dig a bit and formulate an opinion based upon research.
If one votes based solely under the influence of expensive, flashy, negative, hollow advertising one gets the government one deserves.
http://www.thedailyshow.com/#tool_tip_1
Watch and smell the IRONY...;-)
Which is exactly why we are in the boat we are in. The average American out there on the street does not even know that there is a primary election going on somewhere today. The average American knows they have to get through the day and will be wholly satisfied just to get that done. The average American thinks those ads cannot lie, that it is somehow against the law to lie in an ad on TV.
Do not assume that because you care that your neighbor does. You neighbor is likely low wattage and believes that what he is told at the water cooler or the lunch table is gospel even though the guy telling him is just as low wattage and got his information from some other dimwit, who in the end is likely glued to Fox.
If any of you ever hit the streets as part of a campaign and listen to the average person our there you will find a shocking amount of what cannot be described as anything but pure unadulterated stupidity. Enough to set you back and really worry you about the depth of ignorance to real facts out there and the complete unwillingness to even listen to ideas in conflict with their brand of Kool aid.
The future course of the Republican Party, not just the GOP primary, is in the balance tonight. The inner workings of the party are struggling against each other, and the result in New Hampshire will go a long way in determining who will come out on top. Romney is the establishment pick and has the best odds at being the GOP nominee. But he is flawed, has failed miserably whenever he is tested in a campaign, and stands a good chance of losing much of the evangelical and Tea Party vote in November. But there is so little time for the right-wing to coalesce around the weak conservatives left in the race that Mitt will likely win by default, setting up a general election disaster for Republicans. http://www.sunstateactivist.org
I agree Matt,
Real conservatives vs Neo-Cons, and it's a tight race. Hopefully we can get rid of the ultra religous neo-cons let them form their own party.
Mattpfl, you are correct, once again the GOP is handing us their flawed nominee hoping Mitt will run to the right enough to capture their extreme right wing base, but moderate enough to win the general - I don't see that happening. Ron Paul supporters are not going to vote for anyone but Ron Paul, the Teaparty is not going to support Romney in the general (probably not most of the primaries either truth be told), and no way will the South vote for a Morman, it just won't happen, Bubba likes his guns, his pretend religion, and medicaid for his wife and children plus his mistress and their children! I know this because I've been raised in Bubbaland, I can give anyone a quick tutorial on Bubba. Yes, bubba is pretty stupid, but bubba is gonna vote, however, he will never, ever vote for a Morman, and that is just a fact.
Hi Union Baby,
This is Great.
Yes, Romney is damaging himself and will continue to damage himself while this nominating race maintains the appearance of actually being a race. (Kind of makes you wonder how Romney will handle the general election, seeing as he seems to only look worse and worse when pressured.)
But I still think the simple, safest prediction is a Romney nomination. He won (probably) Iowa, will win New Hampshire, is currently up in South Carolina, and certainly has the money to keep that momentum going in Florida.
Let's say some of this damage and pre-existing skepticism causes him to crash in South Carolina. The media, which wants a race in order to make its reporting seem dramatic and important, will play that up. But in the end, Romney still has the money and organization for when this race turns into more of a national campaign, which happens immediately after South Carolina. No more retail, other than for media appearances. Money for ads, organization for volunteer blitzes... that's where these things are won. Romney has it, and will be coming off wins in two of the three retail states anyway.
Paul,
Actually we got five, Iowa, New Hampshire, South Carolina, Florida & Nevada before super Tuesday. A lot more retail to go...
I'd say Florida and Nevada aren't retail. In Florida's case, it's too large for a successful retail effort. It really is a state you can't win without ad money. In Nevada's case, it's too small and tightly packed between others for most to offer any real retail effort - and that's with a handful of tightly packed population centers. Still they don't. Candidates will make a cursory flight into Vegas and talk to someone, but that's not retail politics like you see in local campaigns, or like in a presidential cycle you'll see in Iowa, New Hampshire and South Carolina.
Your probably right Paul, but they will get more attention just because they are out in front of tuesday...
Gentlemen,
Florida is large, making retail politics difficult. The other problem here is our diverse population. Voters in south Florida are much different than NE FLA. Then you have the I-4 corridor. Should be interesting to watch how the candidates play to each section of the state.
The Kantor book is a blip--and I beg to disagree with FR's analysis that the President's recess appointments were part of a 'dump' media strategy. Quite the opposite: President Obama announced his recess appointment for the Consumer Watchdog Agency on the eve of the Iowa caucuses and quickly followed this up with more recess appointments to maximize the longevity of the story. He wanted to break through the heavy coverage of the Republican candidates and he succeeded marvelously.
Finally, not going outside your inner circle is neither good or bad, effective or ineffective in and of itself. Daley came in as a place holder after Rahm's departure. He (Daley) is a 'war horse'--always serviceable, loyal and ready. To read negative implications into a nominal change that was bound to happen anyway is silly. In fact, everything worked out great for everyone--Rahm is mayor of Chicago (his dream job); Daley is still in play for future cabinet positions/appointments and President Obama gets good service from loyalists. Nothing untoward here at all.
The media scrum over Mitt Romney’s statement that he likes “being able to fire people” misses the larger – and more important – points about his healthcare policy.
Mr Romney is suggesting changes that have already been made.
Is it really, "repeal and replace" – or just "Rename and Claim"?
Good point, Steve Eldridge.
Romney also implied that every person can fire their insurance company when a large segment of the population has employer coverage, they are stuck with the one their employer picked. Sure, they could drop out and buy their own but few could afford it.
Two points that the Dems should make: one, most people with a 5 plus year gap on their resume, like Romney, have a hard time finding a job, and two, 99 percent of people aren't going to make it 5 years without work living off their savings and investments.
Very good point, Wm.
Wm.
Very Good, Republicans should be making that point also!
Another point they should make...
The reason why most worry about getting a pink slip is because they have to make mortgage payments, car payments, pay kids tuition, put food on the table. They wonder where the money is going to come from. Something tells me that even if Mittens got a pink slip, he wouldn't have those worries.
I said it yesterday and I'm unapologetically going to repeat it today.
I'm willing to concede that Romney's "I like to fire people" comment was taken out of context, even though most of us in the real world don't have the same choices he does about "firing" our insurance companies if we don't like our coverage.
But why, why, why, is the media going ballistic over that remark and then giving him a completely free pass on this comment he made while defending it?
"I don’t want to have to live in a world where we have Obamacare telling us which insurance we have to have, which doctor we can have, which hospital we go to," Romney said. "I believe in a setting as I described this morning where people are able to choose their own doctor choose their own insurance company."
There is a big difference between a statement taken out of context and a blatant and fully intentional LIE. Why isn't he being asked to defend this statement?
Romney never defends his lies even when called out he just flips and flops and changes his story from day to day. You call him out on a lie and he tells another, then another, even republicans worry about this serious flaw of his, oh what a tangled web we weave when we practice to deceive. Left foot green, right foot red, left hand yellow, it's fun to watch Mitt play twister with the republican party.
Except every single time he is pressed he gets flustered and changes the subject. He's good when talking about prepared subjects but on his feet, he's an inarticulate fool just like perry but with a bit more polish...
Like I noted in a post below, journalists don't care whether a politician is telling the truth or lying. It's only important whether what a politicians says increases or decreases his poll numbers. Ironically, Romney's father got in trouble and destroyed his presidential hopes when he told the truth about being "brainwashed" into supporting the Vietnam war. It looks like Mitt is not going to repeat his father's mistakes. You'll never catch Mitt telling the truth if a lie serves his ambitions better.
Good point, JoAnne, and it goes right to the point Kelly O'Donnell made on the Chris Matthews Show a couple of weeks ago, when she decried the challenge of making the issues as "sexy" to viewers as coverage of the horserace.
JoAnne, excellent. I was wondering the same thing. His explanation of the comment is an outrageous lie but not a peep from the MSM. Of course, there hasn't been much of a peep from the MSM for any of the outright lies told by republicans; little challenge during the debates, during interviews, etc.
JoAnne---great point. MSM doesn't challenge this mischaracterization of the ACA Act.
Heard another one on Morning Joe today---Joe said how uncomfortable Romney is with people, especially in small groups---just like President Obama is. No one on the panel contradicted him. If that is the case, the President should go into acting after his second term is up because I've seen photos of him interacting with small groups of people and he seems comfortable and fully engaged.
That's good, SF. If there's one thing I'm an expert on, it's being uncomfortable with people, especially in small groups. I can only wish I was as uncomfortable as Joe thinks President Obama is!
JoAnne: Better yet WHY DIDN'T THE MEDIA POINT OUT THE TRUTH WHEN THE LIE WAS SAID. This is what I'm hating day after day about the Media... Years ago the news was based on honesty and getting the TRUTH out no matter what. Today... it's based on "how long can we drag this lie out for the hits on our site or drag this out to make the race more interesting. I think the media has just as much guilt in the way our nation has been destroyed as Bush and his goonies. I would love if just for once the next year the media would stop them dead in their tracks and say... "you know that is not true... you know the facts are this, this and this why do you continue to lie"... why not just run on the true facts... do you not have any at this point." and that goes for all parties.
insight iowa -
You'll get no argument from me. Thanks for your "insight"!
Poor Willard Mitt Romney, he's had a bad couple of days because he clearly proved to voters just how out of touch he is with the real working world. He tries so hard to show empathy and that he "gets it" but he's so phoney that even his phoney is phoney.
New Hampshire Primary Day. The first votes were cast and counted from Dixville Notch and Hart's Location, Romney leads with 7 votes total but Paul and Huntsman are not far behind.
It's been reported that if Romney wins New Hampshire, it will be the first time a candidate has won both Iowa and New Hampshire. That's something but historians would need to place an asterisk beside his name. The GOP does not really know if Romney won Iowa because of a possible clerical error adding an extra 20 points for Mitt but...oh, well, never mind, the GOP wanted Mitt to win anyway. The field of republicans candidates has been weak, anything but shining stars. It has been one disastrous new anti-Romney candidate after another.
Odds are that Romney will win and be the first to win both IA and NH but honestly, many republicans who post on First Read would have made better candidates than most of the republicans running this year and the results would still be the same.
Jody-- Next up Spanky/NoJo 2012
Tom, sounds about right!
Jody,
Good points. I am encouraged by Mr. Huntsman's rise, but I believe this is not his year.
In keeping with your closing statement, I propose running a few conservative candidates from FR. I would be happy to put my name in the ring (and if you say I do not have enough signatures in time, I shall sue you). I look forward to the first debate against Grimey, Egilman, NoJo, Spanky, and assorted bobs.
Gotta go now, have a Super PAC to sponsor....ooops, I know NOTHING of the Mark Will Save America organization.....
Mark---I will volunteer to be a moderator at the FR Conservatives Debate.
My first question would be: "define conservative... and you can use your lifeline call here."
As though anyone currently running for President has a clue about the working man. That includes our current President. By the time they get to that point in their lives that they run for President they are already pamperred and spoiled and either don't remember, or never new what it is like to work for a living.
Huntsman needs to lose the black leather jacket. It makes him look like a middle aged man going through a mid life crisis.
White Collar go to Faux news Jack Lew isn't running for president,right english works in billards not politics.
FR:
The attacks against John Kerry's war record were proven lies. The attacks against Romney making money by firing people are true. Not that the difference between truth and lies matters all that much to media pundits.
Romney made far more money from the investments in the companies that were successful. People who think that they intentionally would invest in a company that is likely to fail lose the argument based on this. Romney's company makes far more money from investments that were successful, why would they waste capital with investments they didn't think would pan out?
Businesses fail. Life isn't always fair. Get over it.
weaselyone
By selling the company off to suckers before it goes under. Romney was a corporate predator who never added anything of real value to the US economy. Get over it.
weaselyone - There is a difference between a Venture Capitalist and Corporate Raiders A Venture Capitalist invests their money to enable an immerging or under capitalized company to grow and when that happens the investment will produce a reasonable return on their investment
Corporate Raiders look for existing companies doing fairly well - put 20% down to purchase the company - pump up their sales and go public enabling them to borrow large sums of money, the company generally has 7 years to pay back the debt, however in most cases it would take 15 years In the interim employees benefits have been cut in half and their pension fund depleted
In the end the company has no choice but to go bankrupt - shutting its doors and all employees are on the street with no job, no insurance and pennies on their pension
Generally the Federal Government is called in over the employee's pensions, but it is usually a fraction of what it was originally worth
Do you get that?
Barbara Adams Jackson
Excellent explanation. But he probably didn't get that because he doesn't want to get it.
Seeing these close results in Iowa and NH, and seeing Romney's utter inability to relate to anyone on a human, emotional level reminds me of something:
Think about it, America. Don't make the mistake of electing our first robot president. Don't vote for Romney. If it doesn't cost you your life, it may at least cost you your job. After all, if you vote for Romney, you're doing him a service, and he's already said how much he likes firing people who perform services for him.
Nathan: Agreed. In my opinion, while all of the GOP candidates scare me, with the exception of Jon Huntsman, Mitt Romney is the scariest one of them all. At least with the others, we know where they stand on issues. Mr. Romney has no clue as to what he believes, as evidenced by his defensiveness when challenged.
But if you vote Santorum even though he never served in the military he would just love to send your sons and daughters back to an unnecessary war.
Allison: Agreed. Jon Huntsman is the only GOP candidate in whom I have any faith regarding foreign policy. Ron Paul is too much of a pacifist, and the others seem to be too hawkish.
Well Mary,
I would agree with you except Dr Paul is anything but a pacifist...
Egilman: Pacifist may be the wrong word. I just don't trust his judgment regarding war policy.
Mary,
I understand, but he is for a very strong defense of our country.
But not our country and every other former enemy we have ever had!
Egilman: I'm not sure what you are saying; you say that he is for a strong defense of our country, but not our country and every other former enemy we have ever had.
I'm assuming you mean that he feels that we're to blame for the hatred shown toward the U.S. by some other countries. In some respects, I agree with him. By the same token, that is why I don't trust him with the security of our country.
So true, Allison. Santorum would also be sending in the bedroom police to make sure we don't sin.
Wait till Mitt has to answer for his military presence, or lack there of, during the Viet Nam war.
He was in France the entire time, living on a string of deferrments.
Rod Father - The Mormon Church gave Willard cover by sending him to France as a missionary - stayed in one of their chateaus - why France an 85 to 90% Catholic Country - guess that's where Willard wanted to go Converts 0 put did learn French
Came back home when it was safe for him His story about living in a cold water flat is also bogus - would hardly call a chateau a hardship
Mary, I have to disagree. While I probably dislike Romney on a personal level more than any of the other candidates, most of the others frankly scare me a lot more on a policy or general competence level. A Perry or Santorum or Paul or Gingrich or Bachmann or Cain presidency would be much more dangerous than a Romney administration. I suspect that Romney in the White House would act much like Obama, putting aside ideology in favor of pragmatism and politics. Given the choice, I'd prefer Obama, but Romney's certainly not the worst option on the table yet.
Mary - All wars America has been in since WWII have been undeclared. That is counter to Constitutional law, which demands war must be declared and congressional support must exist (which is representative of the People). Since the country manages somehow to shirk its responsibility to law by perpetuating these wars - undeclared - not representative of the People - and to which no one but Ron Paul recognizes and speaks truth to - I would be hardpressed to support any other candidates, running or seated, that promote that agenda. Forgive some of my bias since my son is preparing for his 6th tour as a counterintelligence officer. He supports Ron Paul, both with his vote and his money, as do a very large number of his fellow soldiers, based on an understanding that unsustainable wars are an avoidable reality, and who collectively believe that not one dollar or one life has been worth these undeclared 'skirmishes' to which no reasonable advantage has been achieved toward American security or credibility. I'd respectfully ask you to give additional consideration to whether Ron Paul is inferior in this specific area of policy, particularly in light of the stance taken by dems and reps who are now strongly promoting their dedication to strike Iran as an addition to their platform on which to be elected / re-elected. http://andrewsullivan.thedailybeast.com/2012/01/why-ron-paul-is-right-and-president-obama-is-wrong-about-iran.html
alim: You are not telling me anything new; I understand this. And, as I stated above, I agree with Dr. Paul on some points. However, declared war or not, I still don't trust Dr. Paul's judgment.
Nathan: You may be right. However, I don't see Mitt Romney as an effective leader. He becomes too defensive when he is challenged.
I'm with mittens on this one...during the 2008 election cycle several of my employees were exposed as hypocrites when they cheered for not sharing the wealth and then I found out they didn't mind sharing my wealth at work so I fired them...i did like it
Not the same thing at all. These were presumably employees stealing from you. Do you enjoy firing anyone else? He does, and has done a lot of it to prove the point.
Willard Romney's "jobs" record is not only dismal, it is despicable.
It's the job of every privately run business to make money first and foremost. When the banks failed, people were not pissed at them because bank employees lost their jobs; people were pissed about the loss of money.
You seem to be unable to think. If you succeed in saving some companies that were headed for bankruptcy anyway and would laid off employees without any help anyway. Then saving the majority of those unhealthy, poorly performing companies and saving jobs at those companies is a pretty impressive record. Besides, it shows he can make hard decisions, someone is going to have to make hard decisions to turn this country around. It is obvious Obama can't he can't even make easy ones like approving a job creating pipeline from Canada.
TO: Thermen Merman who wrote:
And let us NOT forget that the last set of wackos Republicans sent to the House were supposed to be about JOBS JOBS JOBS but ever since they got their new job they haven't done a darn thing except they all joined the Washington Republicans Elite Groups.
I keep saying the only Repub. to seriously consider is Huntsman.
I like Huntsman, but why vote for him when you can re-elect President Obama? They share similar views, but Obama has the experience.
Amy: I'm not sure that Governor Huntsman and President Obama share similar views on many things other than some foreign policy issues. Mr. Huntman is extremely conservative, both fiscally and socially. But, I do agree that Mr. Huntsman is the only GOP candidate worthy of the nomination. He is a patriot and a gentleman. While I don't agree with much of his politics, he is definitely the only GOP candidate that I can see as POTUS. Moreover, he is the only one that does not scare me!
Mary - Huntsman scares me - he wants to adopt the Paul Ryan plan, he's for extending Bush's tax cuts and finally a Republican in the White House with those crazy Republican Congressmen and Women would try to implement all the garbage they've been trying to get through for the past three years
Barbara: Yes, he is extremely conservative. However, in my opinion, he would not govern as an ideologue. Rather, I think that he would govern in a more pragmatic manner.
Bain Capital sounds like it did exactly what it was supposed to do: it delivered shareholder returns and protected them from any losses. Unfortunately, those successes come without regard to the cost to anyone else. And unfortunately for Romney, he is essentially a banker at a time when both parties are angry at banks - this is why Romney is stuck at 25% and why his electability argument fails.
Romney was a corporate predator, not a capitalist at all in the normal sense. He didn't start companies that profited from making good products under competent management. He made his money by taking over companies, firing workers, and sending jobs overseas. Steve Jobs was often ruthless, but he contributed products of great value to the US economy. Mitt Romney never contributed anything of value.
Staples has 2,000 stores instead of 1 due to Bain's investment in them. Burger King, Guitar Center, and Dunkin Donuts all provide more jobs now precisely because of Bain's investment. I suppose you could say it would have been evil to keep pouring money into the unsuccessful ventures instead of cutting losses and investing in these companies.
Where are Iphones and IPods manufactured again? Oh yeah, China. Apple employs thousands in America too, just making the point that Apple also sent jobs overseas.
Thousands more people have jobs because of Bain's investment. I think they would beg to differ.
weaselyone
Yeah, and Mittens is dishonestly claiming credit for the people Staples hired long after he left Bain.
Very true, and that's a big negative for Jobs and Apple. But on the positive side, Apple produced the innovative products mention that have benefited business and consumers in this country. Mittens created nothing of value in his past life as a corporate raider.
Mitt may not be America's best for the job, but is from the others running.
None of them are worth voting for, face it. Obama in 2012.
I fail to see the logic in the criticism of Romney over this, while I am not a huge fan I do actually see the value in his Bain experience as it applies to being President at this particular time. Bain did not invest in good companies, they invested in companies that were headed for bankruptcy anyway and tried to fix them. The fact that Romney succeeded in turing a large number of these troubled companies around is impressive, the fact that he had to lay off people in many cases to do this is also impressive given our current situation. It shows he can make the tough decisions that need to be made to fix things that our broken, we are in a mess right now because neither our congress nor our president will make hard decisions and fix problems. This one issue may in fact turn me into a Romney supporter, if we are going to survive as a country, someone has to be in charge who is capable of doing the hard messy things that are going to be necessary to turn this country around and fix the complete mess that Bush and Obama have created.
The American government has put both its citizens and Iranian citizens on notice - "...we will not allow Iran to have a nuclear weapon." President Obama And the Republicans concur, save one.
Ready to rumble, America? Ron Paul 2012
How is it possible that a political party that purports to know every damn thing cannot find a single credible candidate to run for President?
What happened to the Tea Nuts? I thought they knew everything and were all powerful?
Here's hoping more Americans are ready to get real in 2012 instead of just getting mad on cue for every political hack who decides to work us all into a frenzy for THEIR benefit, not ours.
Congrats to the Tide, Nash!!
There seems to be nothing but *crickets* from the Tea Party these days----I guess they're busy drafting up a jobs bill or another attempt to legislate our reproductive rights.
Thanks Steeler Fan . . . I'm still sleepy from staying up too late! lol
Roll Tide Roll
Congrats from me too, Nash. Pulled for them all the way.
I do believe the tea party has done its damage (although they do still seem to be force in local politics). I think its influence on the national stage is diminishing.
Nash, I cheated and slept in. Cup of coffee?
Cup of coffee sounds awesome phinephancy . . . because Diet Coke is not cutting it! ;o)
Nashville - "How is it possible that a political party that purports to know every damn thing cannot find a single credible candidate to run for President?"
It cuts both ways. Ron Paul 2012
alim,
It has cut both ways in the past . . . but not this year! :o)
Obama/Biden 2012
Too funny, Obama won the Republican nomination in the first precinct polled as a write in.
C'mon voters, tell us how you REALLY feel about the candidates the Republicans have fielded ...
Guess again... He won the first precinct's democrat party vote.
TO: Rich1954 who wrote:
THIS IS A REPUBLICAN PRIMARY! THERE IS NO "democrat party vote" DURING ANY REPUBLICAN PRIMARY.
I GUESS THIS WHOLE "REPUBLICAN PRIMARY" STUFF HAS GOT YOU COMPLETELY STUMPED.
It is true and if you read the article it will confirm that President Obama did indeed win the Republican nomination in the first precinct.
Perhaps a little reading and comprehension course is in order.
Obama / Biden 2012
Don't want to burst any bubbles, but I believe that both parties are having their primary in HN today. Not just the republicans. Obama is running uncontested.
This from the NY Post about the first town to vote at midnight last night.
Romney was a corporate raider. They call their take-over companies, cash cows. What do you think that is about? Sucking the air of the company for their millionaire "partners" and moving on to the next company to do the same to. It is the exact opposite of job creation. Raiders generally kill companies, and displace the people who work for them.
It is guys like Romney that destroyed the Middle Class. This guy has no heart or soul. He could care less about how the Middle Class has been destroyed. He closed factories and sent those jobs to China. This is Wall Street's boy! This guy is as much like Joe Middle Class as Bush was. They have no clue about the hell that their policies cause on the Middle class. True or false... Romney will lower taxes again even further on the rich that pay historically low taxes. True. Wake up Middle Class the people that want him in office want to continue looting our country.
Lets not elect the wolves again to guard the sheep (Middle Class). Obama is are only hope of getting a Middle Class back to a decent living / standard. God help America the Middle Class!