Look at Feisty go.

So Feisty what pray tell do political ads have to do with education?

Better yet, perhaps you can tell me how much SC spent on education in say 1975 vs. now? Then We could compare what the graduation rate was then vs. now.

Should be fun right. After all team blue's argument is the more money the better education.

Of course that's really kinda odd when you look at the results of all the cash going into education these days.

Well, at least you got that fantastic education system in Ill. Man, those budget woes you all face are kinda epic though.

Just another win for team blue.

Spanky,

I live in a state with a Republican governor and the legislature is held by the GOP. We are last in the graduation rate. And, the Republican governor wanted to cut spending for education. Is that a win for team Red?

I think the assumption is the less education one has the more influenced you are by TV ads. The people of SC have my sympathy. I was so glad to see diet ads replace Romney's PAC ads!

Let's see phinep - is your state broke like mine?

If it is broke, then education, and everything else needs to be cut. Money does not = better education.

But like I always say, you all do not have to take it from me, just look to the progressive paradise that is Cali [and now Ill] - Brown is cutting the living hell out of education.

Say it with me you all: Being broke sucks.

Oh and funny thing our man Brown is finding out - we lost 50% of the people making over $500k in the last two years.

You all do realize how utterly dependent Cali is on the high income earners, right?

Spanky,

I believe that the good voters of the state of California need to look in the mirror before placing blame on whose party is to blame for your financial woes. Just as my state does regarding the quality of our education.

Spanky--- I was recently at the airport in San Diego and there is extensive work being done. The company that provides the portable crappers is called "Spanky's". Is that your namesake?

Do you pick up the dumps there so you can leave one here?

I was just wondering.

I wish Tom - 'Spanky's' appears to be a very successful business.

But, umm, I'm not sure you know this but my name isn't really Spanky.

But to be candid, and having just finished my third cup o' joe, I do need to head off to drop some friends off by the pool.

Come on people - it's Friday, gonna be 72 degrees today. I'm thinking lunch down by the water.

Okay I guess I'll take you at your word but I always will think of you as the purveyor of poop. Maybe you named the long gone nightclub "Spanky's" after yourself then.

Dr. Dean the hypnotist was sure a lot of fun. San Diego's weather is good but the politics, crammed freeways and pollution, not so much.

Phin,

Where did you see that Florida was last in graduation rate?

Paul,

Bear with me, I will have to google it again.

Sorry for the lag time, Paul. Everytime I hit google my computer first froze up then shut down!! Okay, I had seen an article on an ajc site, but I was wrong in stating we were last. We were in 2009. Last year we improved, according to the sun-sentinel to a whopping 44th. But, really lag behind when comparing different groups and standardized testing. Bottom line, our schools are in bad shape. But now I can brag, here in St. Johns county, we have the best public schools around! Woo Hoo!

@Phine I assume you apply that same advice you gave Spanky to the voters in Illinois to account for their financial woes.

http://www.chicagonow.com/publius-forum/2012/01/illinois%E2%80%99-credit-rating-downgrade-the-result-of-politicians%E2%80%99-inaction/

http://www.stltoday.com/business/columns/david-nicklaus/illinois-has-nation-s-worst-credit-rating/article_070e2e91-0d74-5e2d-a3e6-59cc88477b6a.htm

Money often equates to better education, I am not talking about money spent on schools, I am talking about the household income, when mom and dad are working multiple jobs to make ends meet education of the kids suffer, When dad has a good job with benefits then mom can stay home and ride herd on the kids and make sure they are doing their schoolwork. Family values costs money, no school can educate a kid who's parents have no time to be involved and make sure he does his homework, because they are working 5 part time jobs with crap pay and no benefits, latchkey kids under-perform no matter how much money the school districts spend.

Tom - so let me understand this- You think about me when you are away from this board, on vacation?

Why thanks Tom, that is touching.

But to be candid, I have never given a thought to you other than when I am either reading or responding to one of your comments.

You know Tom there is a heck of a lot more to life than this here board.

Phinep - go buy that Apple Macbook.

I just saw that $54 of the $84 billion cash stock pile Apple owns sits overseas. If they tried to bring it here they'd get hit with a 35% tax.

Guess that money will never come here, eh phinep? A shame that.

No worries Phin, I know it's not in the top 10, but I know it's not last. I have a Senior and a Freshmore, Freshmore is given because there's no 9th grade at the high school they attend. I am proud to say that the school they attend is number 1 out of the 410 high schools in the state for 2010-2011.

Check out the company I told you about Phine, Spanky just gave you a good reason not to support Apple, they are basically a foreign company. Support the USA buy American whenever possible.

Forrest,

"Family values costs money"

Have to disagree with you. It's about the parents and it doesn't matter what type of jobs they have. I was gone most of the time (military) during their yearly years. If you choose to blame work for not spending time to establish values to the kids, that's the parents fault and their fault only. It's like taking responsibility for your actions, which most people fail to do. It's easier to blame someone else or something else.

How many hours do you and the wife work a week Paul, how many jobs do the two of you hold down? I'm guessing that your kids are not routinely alone for long periods of time while both of you are out working.

Interesting, I have asked this question before and only mark of ?. anna molly and yellowdog in texas recognized that more educational funding for k-12 won't help our declining world ranking. I will say that foreign students do like our university and graduate programs, despite the high costs. Our higher centers of learning must look like a bargain to them...

Sorry forrest, I am with paul on this. The parents set the tone for the childs education and belief system, whether they can afford private schools or just the run of the mill public school. I believe that many today are just so comfortable with blaming others that they don't see their face in the mirror.

Did you read my post, I am not talking about anything that happens at the school I am talking what happens in the home. Parents who aren't home can't set the tone, and insure the kids do what they need to do, no school can compensate for that.

@ Forest my parents both worked full time and believe me they set the tone. This is not the 1950's where one parent is home all the time. There are a lot of parents who are at home for extended periods who don't participate in their children's education. It is not that black and white.

My point is they have to participate, if they don't for whatever reason the kids education suffers, and there is little the schools or the teachers can do to rectify that.

Anybody but the anti-free market hypocritical pig, Blingrich!!!

Obama make the govt. smaller??

too bad no one believes it.

Good to see the Pres coming around to GOP positions.

But, he does have a rather poor track record of actually doing what he says he will do.

But do tell us Sandy - do you think it is a good idea? Should the government get cut down?

Actually, the President has done an outstanding job. He is making our nation great again.

May I ask, instead of attacking the president (although you seem to agree with the idea), can you say "Good idea, hope he can get it passed?" Or is the hate so deepley ingrained against anybody you disagree with?

Did ya forget that Bush and the Republicans created the biggest Federal budget expansion since FDR - but without the massive global war FDR had to pay for?

It really doesn't pay to talk about Republican claims of small government; if the right people (that is, the right's people) will get wealthier faster by jacking up the size of government, that is exactly what the Republicans will do.

He sure is - brokest nation in the history of the world.

And being no slouch, $15 Trillion is just not enough. Gunning for $16.5 Trillion.

And all in just 4 short years.

Projecting this out, cause it ain't like anyone is making any actual cuts, it's be a mere $20 Trillion by 2016.

That really is 'great' Job1. Just super awesome really.

phinep - not hate, and hell yeah I hope he gets it through. But only if it is really going to cut the size down, not re-arrainge the deck chairs.

President Obama inherited this incredible brink of depression mess from President Bush and Mr. Obama has done a good job of turning the country around.

I honestly have to say anyone who doesn't recognize this fact is pretty much out of touch with reality.

Sure Job1.

So to you, this is 'turned around?'

That's what the awesome stimulus was for, 'member Job1? Unemployment would not go above 8%.

Whoops. Of course he has done nothing to address housing.

Just read the Fed is about to implement QE3 - which is just a fancy way of saying printing more money. He just asked for a trillion more in debt.

Job1 - why or how is the need for a trillion more debt related to turning the country around?

@ Leona and Spanky

You should get on the phone and ask your Rep. or Senator to support the President on this issue.

You will have to wait on that, they are still on vacation.

Did your Rep. or Senator have a Town Hall meeting during break?

Uh, Sandy - Cali here. I assure you my two esteemed senators will do whatever Obama wants.

So how about it Sandy - you up sor some more QE?

Yu think printing more money is a good thing?

You like inflation?

@ Spanky Get involved by going to a town hall or calling your Congressperson.

If you do not get involved, shame on you.

Try spending your time e-mailing your Congressperson, instead of posting here!

To what end Sandy?

Boxer and Feinstein, what a pair. You think Issa needs my encouragement?

By the way you hear about the latest and greatest - White Gun? Yep, more fun from the ATF.

Cali, the bluest of the blue. Too bad it is in such dire straits, eh?

So phine, care to explain all the negativity from the left on the right and tea party wanting to down size government and thereby automatically streamline government in the process since 2010?

This isn't another case of obama hoping to claim that smaller government is what he has always intended, is it? A little late for obama to be clutching at straws.

ibs steve - Roosevelt never paid for it all, There have never been enough surpluses to pay for the war debt.

The time for cuts was 3 years ago, instead it was steady as she goes and let's add another batch of bills on top. Republicans actually cut spending and lowered their deficits from for fiscal 2006 & 2007. They were still tossed in 2006 0ut of both houses. Do you really think Obama and the democrats will escape? I can think of $1 billion of reasons why they just might.

Yes.

Phinephancy, Yes I have always advocated public financing with spending caps.

I disagree, phine, Noid and Lisa - there's no "almost" about it.

JoAnne,

I concur. It is absolutely obscene.

"Now?'

Where have you been phinep?

Funny thing is, as I recall Obama was all for public financing and limits, until he wasn't.

Don't see President "I'll have a Billion to spend" backing off his current position, so best to buckle up.

Spanky,

Please read what I wrote. I indicated BOTH parties. Yes, the last time was too much, and the mid terms and my local county commissioners spent too much. The money in politics - all politics, all sides is over the top and bad for everyone.

PS Did team red win in my state?

Sorry, I'm afraid Spanky's Obama Derangement Syndrome is one of the more advanced cases.

I surely did phinep.

Last time was 'too much' as was the time before that, and the time before that.

Now it may have been unintentional, but your post was about the amount being spent 'now.'

Now I know this ain't your first rodeo.

And true that Noid, but I wonder - you good with his big haul yesterday? You like the $35k per plate dinners?

Really is a man of the middle class, right?

Spanky,

My original comment was to today's article. However, your first instinct is to attack me. Why is that?

Oh, and did team Red win in my state?

It is indeed utterly obscene, phine. But the true obscenity is these sums are spent because candidates and their backers realize that enough voters will be swayed solely by advertising to make the spending worthwhile.

The only way to combat the influence of money in political campaigns is for each individual voter to take upon themselves the responsibility and put forth the effort to become truly informed - to make their choice with their head and not their heart.

Americans love to trumpet their rights but I see precious little acceptance of the awesome responsibility that accompanies those rights. Voting is both a right and a tremendous responsibility. Those who vote based upon what they see in TV ads get the government they deserve. Unfortunately, those of us who use our heads often suffer. Ah, democracy!!

Mark,

Are you familar with Dylan Ratigan's idea of a constitutional amendment regarding getting the money out of politics? You might be interested in his petition.

phine,

I am not. Thanks, I'll look it up.

Now this is why I come to FR! To learn!

You sure are sensitive phinep - mine was not an attack, but rather a comment upon your use of the word 'now.'

Context is very inmportant and is often lacking around here.

Not sure of you point as to team red winning your state.

Now come on phinep - it's Friday, get happy.

Spanky,

Come late afternoon, I plan on being one of the happiest people in the state of Florida!

Me and Ms. Spanky are on diets and have not had alcohol since new years eve. We agreed no drinking until 1/27 - we are going out of town.

last weekend sucked!

Good news Ms. Spanky hit her goal weight this morning and I am close enough. I am hoping that she has as little will power as me and we can have at least one bottle tonight?

The hard part was I got her a case of her favorite wine for Christmas, and it's just sitting there. Mocking us.

Didn't I see this same diet and wine scenario on a weight loss commercial this week?

Are you running low on material or is just easier to plagiarize?

You're giving yourself away counselor.

Or I'm on an actual diet and have cut out alcohol.

But yeah, I'm making it up on this political blog.

Or is it you think lawyers don't diet or drink?

What's the matter King - having a bad day or are you just a monkey?

Wait don't answer, it's better that way.

Yes, I think you're making it up.

No, I don't think you're a lawyer.

No, this isn't the first time I've seen you use something I've seen or read lately.

Coincidence? You're the "lawyer". You tell me.

While at the grocery store, I read the USA news headline of how obama has already amassed a $240 billion war chest. Wonder if the poor and middle class still think obama is for them?

At least he's not actively working against us. I can't say the same for Republicans

Republicans feel they have to destroy the future in order to save it.

Democrats feel they have to destroy the here and now so there won't be a future to save.

Sounds like BOTH parties want to destroy the country.

Now that's one superpac I can support!

phine,

The Mark in SoCal Will Save America super PAC is looking for supporters as well. Will you join us?

Mark,

Sure! Are the contributions to be money or booze? LOL

Though the Mark in SoCal Will Save America organization gratefully accepts all bottles, rare single malts from Islay will gain you instant admittance into the influential inner circle.

Mark,

I will head out to my favorite liquor store today! :)

phine,

Alas, it appears even a highly principled organization like MiSCWSA is subject to corruption and influence peddling.

sigh.............

Mark---of course you are not involved in the day-to-day management of your Super PAC because that would be illegal. You are just surmising things from the ads it has run that you haven't seen, right?

But of course, Steeler, of course!!

Leona,

Please read my statement about. I said BOTH parties spending is obscene. Do you not agree?

Am looking forward to the President Obama ads. It's a fight that will attack the Republicans smear machine. The radical right has bought this attack on themselves.

Really - you are looking forward to ADS?

He has a record. He has the bully pulpit. He's the frigging pres, and you are looking to advertisments.

That's just sad.

Oh yeah, the President has to go after the one who is going after him. The fights on.

Job1 - you just described one of my main reasons to not support oibama...

Oh yeah, the President has to go after the one who is going after him. The fights on.

Up untill 2009 our past POTUS's have foumd a way to work with congress and foster unity going forward. Your exspressed attitude may be fine for a congressman but is hardly appropriate for the supposed leader of the free world.

President Obama has tried his best to work with this Congress and all they have done is slap him in the face. So, it's time to hit back, because this Congress has stalled enough.

Up untill 2009 our past POTUS's have foumd a way to work with congress and foster unity going forward

Now that's some funny @!$%#!

Did you conveniently forget the Minority leader in the Senate telling the President their ONLY goal is to make sure he serves 1 term?

Consequences be damned!

The President should of given him the finger right then & there instead continuing to compromise with those traitorous clowns!

There was a time where they at least had enough manners to keep those kind thoughts to themselves...

Today they BRAG about it!

phinephancy,

The spending on ads from both sides is obscene. I agree with you, but since you like Obama, you should be happy that he will have a whole lot more money than the Repubs do to campaign with.

Obama gave up "working" . All he does now is vacation, play golf and fundraise. Every time he goes on the road it is to fundraise but he calls it something else.

dangerfield,

It will be interesting to see what comes out of the big meeting this weekend of the religious right leaders.

All part of the fun, eh danger?

Santoruim and Gingrich are very different and have different supporters.

So have any of our big brained libbie friends articulate a viable reason why Obama did so poorly in NH?

Dude had lower numbers than Bush.

The lust for victory...especially by Gingrich...is insatiable.

Gingrich acts like being President is his birthright or something.

Spanky,

Some of your comments are the reason I will have to hide my computer from my granddaughter. Trying to explain why adults talk like that is something I cannot do again.

Yeah, I have to hide my computer at home too, but that's not why. :)

Spanky

Team Red and Team Blue are both more interested in digging in the other side's mine, even though they wouldn't know a diamond if they held it in their hands..

Here's a scoop; I don't care what Liberals think about the REPUBLICAN primaries, as they are NOT going to vote for the eventual nominee no matter who they are. Conversely, I don't care what Conservatives think about the Presidents reelection chances, 'cause they don't WANT him back. Let's face it, we already KNOW what they're gonna say, right?

It doesn't take any guts to piss on the other party, it's having the courage to look critically inward that is the Achilles heel of both sides here. If a "libbie" was questioning the President's s numbers or policies, or reelection chances, or a "GOP/Tpublican" calls out one of the candidates on an issue or tactic, it holds a lot more water than snark and sniping from the other Team...

(I'm guessing you ain't hiding that "People"mag haha)

dangerfield,

Two words ' Americans Elect.

PS My father always said when voting one should look at the man not the party. Good advice.

So have any of our big brained libbie friends articulate a viable reason why Obama did so poorly in NH?

However, the President wiped the board with McCain, in 2008.

Again danger - I will thank you not to denigrate my reading material.

People is ho hum. In Touch rules. all Kardasian and Husewives, all the time.

And I totally know Job1 - Hope and Change. Ah, the good old days.

Psst ;can you spare a trillion?

Job1, this is 2012 and obama went to great lengths to be reprepresented in the NH democratic primaries.

And he won.

Not fire them. Ignore them. Pretend they don't exisit (except when time to vote)

And it's ironic when businessmen like Romney turn around and use the federal government for things like picking up the obligation to the employees' pension fund, or retraining the workers a company lays off. "Run like a business," in reality, means "depend on the federal government."

We will give Romney his pink slip.

patHuntingtonNY: Can't stand it when someone runs for office saying the gov't should be run like a business, I was a business man I know how to create jobs, etc....because we need a Commander in Chief, not an Investor in Chief.

$1.2 trillion more. That might hold him until summer when he'll for real have to ask Congress to up the ante again. And doing so might distract the public from the Supreme Court throwing out ObamaCare. Yeah, things will be adding up for the O man this summer, he'll have to answer for his behavior. The middle class may probably even take note of these deficiencies of Obama. Of course Obama will have to conjure up even more excuses and that will take away some of his time of blaming others for his problems. Yup, a long summer coming up for the O man.

And doing so might distract the public from the Supreme Court throwing out ObamaCare.

Gee, Smiffy, why haven't you been nominated for the Supreme Court? Surely someone who can rule on a case like this without even hearing a single argument is worth consideration.

Romney would have discussions in quiet rooms about the poor and then lower taxes on the 1%, hoping that it create jobs, despite all evidence to the contrary. He might then start another war so the poor people can enlist in the military to fight it.

Does it bother you that Obama no longer "works". He gave that up a while ago in order to campaign.

Every time Obama goes on the road, it is to campaign and he calls it something else.

We, the tax payers , pick up the tab for the Obama road campaign. What's his slogan now?.....

WTF ? or We can't wait ! ? LOL