A new Gallup poll shows that what lefty liberals are touting as two of Barry’s “big accomplishments” are major reasons why small businesses are not hiring: fears of higher health care costs and fears of the cost of new govt regulations. 66% of small businesses also cite the current state of the economy for not hiring. This percentage is right in line with polls showing the percentage of American’s who disapprove of Barry’s handling of the economy.

Most amazing: A quarter of the small businesses that are not hiring are doing so because they fear they won’t even be in business a year from now. WTF?? What does that say about Barry’s handling of the economy??

You’re doin’ a heck of a job, Barry.

From Politico:

Poll: Entrepreneurs fear health costs
By: MJ Lee
February 15, 2012 06:23 AM EST

Almost half of small-business owners in the U.S. who are not hiring new employees say worries about the potential cost of health care and new government regulations are the reasons they are not hiring, according to a new Gallup Poll released Wednesday.

An overwhelming majority of small-business owners surveyed, 85 percent, indicated that they are currently not looking for new workers. Asked why, 48 percent of those not hiring said it was due to concerns about possible rising health care costs, while 46 percent said they were worried about new government regulations.

Other concerns include worries that revenues and sales won’t justify the additional employees, 71 percent; worries about the current state of the U.S. economy, 66 percent; and worries about cash flow or the ability to make payroll, 53 percent.

Almost one in four small-business owners who are currently not expanding their workforce, 24 percent, said they are holding back from hiring because they are worried about no longer being in business in 12 months.

Not scary to me. It rings true to my ears, the ears of all true Americans. You must a a Grover Norquist fetish. Your nose will be brown if he stops suddenly.

This is the stuff scary talk is made of:

Chauncey DeVega of Alternet, who wrote:

In the immortal words of Megatron in Transformers: The Movie, Herman Cain’s speech at CPAC really is bad comedy. As you know, I find black garbage pail kids black conservatives fascinating not because of what they believe, but rather because of how they entertain and perform for their White Conservative masters
He went on to write:

In total, CPAC is a carnival and a roadshow for reactionary Conservatives. It is only fitting that in the great tradition of the freak show, the human zoo, the boardwalk, and the great midway world’s fairs of the 19th and 20th centuries, that there is a Borneo man, a Venus Hottentot or a tribe of cannibals from deepest darkest Africa or Papua New Guinea on display. For CPAC and the White Conservative imagination, Herman Cain and his black and brown kin are that featured attraction.

He also continues to call Cain a monkey.

Or this:

Left-wing radio host Neil Rogers
“Is you their black-haired answer-mammy who be smart? Does they like how you shine their shoes, Condoleezza? Or the way you wash and park the whitey’s cars?”

Or this:

Fritz Hollings (D, S.C.)
Blacks and Hispanics are “too busy eating watermelons and tacos” to learn how to read and write.” — Mike Wallace, CBS News. Source:
“You’d find these potentates from down in Africa, you know, rather than eating each other, they’d just come up and get a good square meal in Geneva.”

NORQUIST HAS A LOT TO ANSWER FOR.
WHEN IT ALL COMES DOWN AND ALL THE DAMAGE HE HAS DONE TO THIS COUNTRY COMES OUT, I DON'T THINK HE WILL BE A FREE MAN.
__________________________________________

Outhouse: It sounds like you are calling for Barry to send out the Freedom of Speech Police to arrest Norquist and hold him under indefinite detention.

How very lefty liberal of you.

This is why the founders included the Second Amendment in the Constitution.

LMAO@U!!!!

Lobbyist Grover Norquist said the following at CPAC this weekend:

Good Morning BackHouse!

Grover isn't known as the 'puppet master' for nothing ya know!

If the GNOP is searching for a mannequin, well, Willard is a perfect choice! Slide a $100 bill between his butt cheeks and he will say whatever you want...

Grover Norquist is a threat to our very Democracy!

What is it with so many women? Why do they stand by while men walk all over them? Why do they go along with the BS notion that we live in a patriarchy? That's simply not true.

In the main, it is women who raise children, not men. It is women who do the shopping, the cooking, who run the errands, and clean the house. These days, they find a way to do that and a whole lot more, because they also hold jobs. Oh yeah, they do one thing no one single man will ever do: They give birth to us.

For nine months, they put up with indigestion, sleepless nights, punches and kicks, and then - they deliver us into the world from which they will protect us for many years. They look at our ugly little faces, listen to our shrieking screams and cover us with kisses. Magnificent creatures, these women.

So why is it, after these beautiful women have given us so much, many men treat them as though they are chattel? Why do these men treat women as servants, as possessions, as objects that must be controlled? It wasn't enough to punch and kick them in the womb, they want to continue the assault as adults.

What is it with these damned Bishops and Popes who do not engage in sex - a flat-out lie - telling women HOW to have sex? Why is it the loudest screamers in the anti-abortion crowd are ALWAYS men? Hey jerk, show me your stretch marks.

It is utter foolishness to pretend that men and women are equal. We are not. Women make lousy linebackers. Men are terrible at kissing a cut and making it feel better. However, both can be vicious gossips, both can be lazy, both can be industrious, creative, and inventive. Yet, there is a system in place that clearly discriminates against women.

Ladies, this is a matriarchy. Yes, it is you who have the greatest influence on how we think and act, not men. Indeed, you have allowed men to pretend we live in a patriarchy.

Kids? Boys and girls? Ladies, you get them first, and you will be the greatest influence in their lives. Don't let them live in pretend world. Don't let your sons grow up to be bullies, and don't let your daughters grow up to be chattel.

Backhouse, excellent post. Scarey is an understatement--just pick someone with enough digits to handle a pen" is all that is needed to be leader of the free world. Grover Norquist rules the GOP, they sign a Pledge to him and ignore their Oath to uphold the Constitution. Their allegiance is not to the country but to the powerful who live in this country. As Barney Frank says, "democrats aren't perfect but they're crazy."

To me, republicans should be less worried about taking their country back and more worried about taking their Grand Old Party back from King Grover and his puppet masters.

How is it 'truly American' to seek a President who does not "think it up or design it", but just signs prepared legislation?

A President who just rubber stamps what his corporate bosses tell him to?

The world is far, far too complex for us to have an unintelligent rubber-stamp President.

Good morning Backhouse, Very good point.

These GOP clowns want to be President?

True liberal backwash (backhouse) by distorting words of of a person who said "Congress" to mean "corporate." What lies you pretend to position as facts is amazing and soooooo wrong. You libbies want it both ways. Corporations to fail but succeed at the same time. Do you favor lowering the corporate tax rates as proposed by today's failed leader?????? If what he has done is the result of free thinking well he should have listened to others.

re David Walker's post-

... perhaps I am the ever shifting sand that the finger writes in ...

but you are the dream that says
I should seek no other place ...
you are the place I seek to dream

she walked like a river
weaving currents of wisdom and desire,
moving memory to myth ... thought to passion
I sought the rhythm of her water's edge ...

her eddies cast dreamscapes upon my soul.

The additional news coming out of Maine -- that one county turned in its results on Feb. 7 but weren’t included -- is a disaster for the GOP and the entire caucus system. (And this news is on top of that other county that postponed its caucuses due to snow and wasn’t counted, either.)

Mitt Romney & Grover Norquist and the entire Republican Party:

"As God is my witness, as God is my witness they're not going to lick us. We're going to live through this and when it's all over, we'll never lose again. No, nor any of our folk. If we have to lie, steal or cheat. As God is my witness, we'll never lose again. "

*********

Watching Rachel Maddow last night calling out to fourth graders in Maine over the votes not counted was hilarious. Sometimes all you can do is laugh out loud at the Republican Party and their desperation this election.

We can't have the smart guy staying in the White House. It's bad for democracy - is more or less what they're saying. Please media watch the GOP carefully. They are not to be trusted with anything they say or do.

Jody, you are so right,

Do we really want a rubber-stamper in charge of:

The military, foreign relations in the most complex international scene of all time, a recovering economy, our fragile environment?

Matthews: Media is 'rooting for Santorum'

Joe, if you were going to run for re-election and I told you your opponent would be a guy who lost his last election as an incumbent for his office by 18 points I believe your response would be, "Sign me up!"

Morning Feisty, careful with that $Do-Ray-Mi!

Imagine if you will....

A world with Grover Norquist as The Puppeteer-in-Chief.

A world in which the GOP/Koch President has also signed the Norquist Pledge.

Scary is the right word, Backhouse. Who determines foreign policy? Who makes the tough calls like authorizing the raid on bin Laden? As a nation, we try these insane ideas the Republicans come up with and later regret them. We tried "trickle down economics" for 30 years and have a smaller middle class to show for it. We tried the President as MBA/CEO with George Bush for 8 years and look where that got us. Enough is enough. We need to re-elect President Obama to keep the momentum of recovery going.

David Walker, another on-the-mark comment.

As for the Bens, bobs, Joes--seriously, it isn't a Norquist fetish, it is wonder and disbelief that so many hard working conservative voters can be so easily duped into having democracy bought and sold by Grover and his puppet masters. They aren't helping republicans any more than they are helping democrats. You might study up on the age of the Robber Barons, then think about Koch brothers, Exxon Mobile and all the other powerful and rich businesses who do good things for us but who behind the scenes rule us and our government. Wake up guys, this isn't about what party one supports. It isn't about ideology. It does not matter if one is conservative, moderate or liberal--democratic government is being stolen from all of us by Grover Norquist and his puppet masters, and others such as ALEC.

Pick a Republican with enough working digits to handle a pen to become president of the United States.

Great find Backhouse. It makes one wonders if enough digits means they should have two or more fingers, or if by digits he means a candidate with an IQ high enough to sign a name vs. using an 'X' to sign on the dotted line. I suspect the latter.

All voters should be outraged that Norquist wants a presidency that bows to his will. All voters need to be educated on the A.L.E.C. agenda. All voters should understand that to vote republican in any contest in the upcoming election means turning over the leadership of this country to Norquist and A.L.E.C. This has already happened at the state level. Get ready for a bumpy ride if it happens at the national level.

Backhouse -- Stunning! We have legislator's who delegate their job to outside lobbyists and think tanks such as ALEC. They sign an oath to a lobbyist that they will not raise taxes. Who is representing "We the people"? The answer appears to be no one! Thanks for posting maybe people will wake up and vote them out!

Bob #'s -- The President is calling for lowering the tax rate for business.

Boy, Obama's budget must really have the liberals sweating. We see the straw man arguments, the vilification of private individuals, and threats against free speech. Well, what the heck, Obama has already tried to abrogate the free exercise clause of the First Amendment- why not take on the free speech clause while he's at it?

By the way- for those of you who swallow hook, line, and sinker every lie that emits from the mouth of your idol, or from the mouths of his minions, you might want to have a look at this

http://www.politifact.com/truth-o-meter/statements/2012/feb/13/jack-lew/white-house-chief-staff-jack-lew-says-budget-requi/

Now, Jack Lew is a former budget director, so he knows FULL WELL that budget resolutions are EXEMPT from filibusters. So, he lied- blatantly, bald facedly, lied.

The Washington Post called him on it.

Politifact called him on it.

I haven't checked, but I'm willing to bet Factcheck called him on it.

The only people who swallow the lie as truth?

Obama cult members.

Scary is the right word, Backhouse. Who determines foreign policy? Who makes the tough calls like authorizing the raid on bin Laden?

But Guys haven't you been arguing for months that the President is blameless for basically anything because all legislation starts in the Congress, the House of Representatives specifically. Isn't this what the founders intended? A strong House, elected every two years, that is close to mood of the people that elect them. Didn't they design the executive to be weak because they did not want a President who would become a de-facto King.

But what do we have? An executive that can attack any country for as long as it wants and ignores the Congress. An executive that decides when the people's representative's are in session so that it can circumvent the constitution. An executive that can decide who is a threat to the country (and we've never been told of what criteria is used), and order their execution, or indefinite incarceration with NO DUE PROCESS.

And you cal Grover Norquist dangerous.

Think Progress:

And finally: The New York State Senate won’t always love Whitney Houston — in fact, Republicans there are blocking a motion to honor the late singer because she may have died of a drug overdose. “I was outraged,” said sponsor, Sen. Eric Adams (D). “For us to focus on how she died rather than how she lived is an insult.”

***************

Whitney Houston showed her socially-conscious side when still a model, before her fame rocketed her to stardom. Back then she refused to work for agencies that did business with South Africa, due to the country’s regime of apartheid. It was an issue that she later brought to the attention of the world when she performed at Nelson Mandela's 70th Birthday Concert in London, an event that brought pressure on the Government to ease its restrictions and eventually release the future president of South Africa.

Following the concert, Houston formed the Whitney Houston Foundation for Children, an organization that cared for the homeless and children with cancer and AIDS. It eventually brought the singer one of her many awards for her humanitarian work, as did her involvement with the United Negro College Fund.

In 1997, the HBO Concert “Classic Whitney live from Washington DC” raised over $300000 for the Children's Defense Fund.

In 2011, she partnered with her sister-in-law in launching a line of scented candles to benefit charity.

New York Firefighters and Police: Whitney Houston re-released "The Star Spangled Banner" charity single to benefit the New York Firefighters Disaster Relief Fund and the New York Fraternal Order of Police Fund following terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. She waived her royalty rights to the single, which went on to top the U.S. sales charts in October 2001 and raised more than $1 million.

In February 2004, Whitney donated 1 million rubles to the Aid Fund for victims of a bomb attack in the Moscow subway. The funds were raised by her performances in Moscow.

************

If you go to Whitney-Fan.com and other sites, there is a whole list of articles of how much Whitney Houston gave back. Her death is a real tragedy to her family, friends and fans and to those especially who she reached out to help.

Republicans are turning into one big comedy of cluelessness in all aspects. They're an embarrassment.

Ben lotsanumbers:

Part of your post at 1.23 was correct. You wrote:

"I thought one time......"

Try it again some time.

Backhouse, good post.

To play devil's advocate a little, the president is an executive; not an engineer. His strengths should be seen in management of others and an ability to provide them with common vision. But that said, it sure does sound like Norquist is looking for a puppet in the White House.

And what is even more amusing, he wants a puppet because of the strength of Republican leadership in Congress? You know, that branch of government that is treading downward toward single digits in approval...

Ben, it seems the sexist rant label belongs to you.

Thank you, David Walker, for being a big man and standing up for the women in this country.

Pat,

How about Sony jacking up the price of Whitney's music after her passing?

Anything for an extra buck or two... eh?

Despicable!

Surely Mrs. David Walker how can you believe a woman can perform in combat but not as a linebacker. If a conservative wrote what you did, you would be all over it. Can't you just answer one question???? Why the male name? Ashamed of your gender????

Steeler, It took President Bush but a year to turn a budget surplus into a $1Trillion deficit. Seems there was more than a bit of rubber-stamping going on.

GOP governors are busy rubber-stamping A.L.E.C. legislation all over the place in an attempt to get us off-balance & make everyone dizzy.

Did you catch that recently, Rep. Gifford (R) inadvertantly exposed the A.L.E.C. header on the proposal she was reading?

Feisty, yes I saw that about Sony. They have since apologized evidently.

Jody -- you are so so wrong. I never treated --nor have any of my friends -- women in the manner DW describes. The real men I know and I also worked full time jobs and helped around the house and still do. Plus we take care of the yard work as well. I am a great shopper. I clip coupons and save money. The only thing men can't do is give birth, but DW made it sound like it was a disease. No, I didn't rant and you know it. You are just a typical circle jerker on here with blinders on.

Paul, The president's job is indeed part 'engineer'.

The president is a Leader, not a personnel manager. He is the de facto Leader of his Party & the country. Leaders provide vision and help create the conditions to follow through.

David Walker--great posts! The whole TPGOP/ALEC agenda is really scary. But what is scarier to me is that there is a group of people in this country who buy into this, not realizing or understanding that they are contributing to the erosion of liberties, our way of life, and the demise of our republic. The fear-mongering, negativity producing philosophy should not be a part of the process. I see so much negativity around, that it sometimes seems to consume people--and our country. I think the answer is better education--but we know the ALEC agenda is to keep that from happening. (I am still trying to figure out how Newt thinks we are going to build a colony on the moon if we do not have well educated people--scientists--working on it!) The lifetime of a society is around 200 years. Perhaps there will be a change coming. I hope it will be a good change!

I also enjoyed your post about women--very eloquent. A number of earlier societies were matrilineal and matriarchial--for good reason. We as women do control the reproduction, which I am sure angers a lot of men. A woman always knows beyond shadow of a doubt, that she is the mother of the child. A man, until the advent of genetic technology, could never be sure. All of this controversy over abortion and contraception is an effort by men to control reproduction, and thus control women--no uppity women allowed. The worst thing we as women have done is to allow men this control!

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

David, the respect is mutual. Thanks. ; ) And many thanks to all the men who stand up and walk beside a woman.

Wow, Backhouse! The quote from Norquist reminds me of JoannaSmith1's "useful idiots" comment of a few days ago.

Apparently the right-wing are coming out of the shadows and admitting the contempt they feel for representative government - they would so much prefer governance by corporations than "we the people." Chilling.

Uh, Navy? I mean, back house?

Your numbers are so far off it's laughable. For fiscal 2002, the first year for which Bush was responsible, the defict was $157 billion, with a b, dollars.

Not a trillion.

http://www.usgovernmentrevenue.com/yearrev2002_0.html

What is with the Obama cult and the truth? It against your religion, or something?

Geez.

Steeler, It took President Bush but a year to turn a budget surplus into a $1Trillion deficit. Seems there was more than a bit of rubber-stamping going on.

It was passed with a Democratic Majority in the Senate.

The law, the first major tax cut in 20 years, cuts income tax rates across the board, reducing the lowest rate from 15 percent to 10 percent, and the highest rate from 39.6 percent to 35 percent.

Some of the law's provisions are delayed several years, but eventually the measure will double the child tax credit from $500 to $1,000, reduce the tax penalty on married couples and fully repeal the tax on estates.

Once all cuts are fully phased in, the average family of four making $50,000 will save $1,825 per year, according to a Senate Finance Committee staff estimate.

The Treasury Department says 38 million families with children will save an average $1,460, 43 million married couples will save an average of $1,728, and 11 million single mothers will save an average of $772, once all cuts are phased in, a process that will take up to 10 years.

And it all sounds so bad doesn't it. If only the rich got nothing then it would have been wonderful.

Sorry, Backhouse, but I think you possibly don't fully appreciate the scope of the job. The president doesn't have time to do things like that. And as Bill Clinton found out when he brought Panetta on as chief of staff, without a good, organized guy running the White House, a president won't even have time to do things he has to do. That wasn't a well functioning White House before Panetta got there.

Apparently the right-wing are coming out of the shadows and admitting the contempt they feel for representative government - they would so much prefer governance by corporations than "we the people." Chilling.

Please read my post on the powers and actions of the executive and then tell me who is showing contempt for representative government. If you have a problem with the House of Representatives, you have the power to change it every two years at the ballot box.

The right wing propagandist's are out in force today. Speaking nothing but fat lies..............

ben Wow sounds like the little woman is well taken care of. Do you wash dishes to? Laundry? When she says jump. Do you ask "How High?" How do you know what a circle jerker is? You must have experience at it at tell who does it or not. Like the song says " Just do the stroke" huh ben.

TO: Backhouse who wrote:

"Lobbyist Grover Norquist said the following at CPAC this weekend:
(msnbc video)

"We are not auditioning for 'fearless leader'.
We don't need a president to tell us in what direction to go.
We know what direction to go. We want the Ryan budget...We just need a president to sign this stuff.
We don't need someone to think it up or design it.
The leadership now for the modern conservative movement for the next 20 years will be coming out of the House and the Senate.
Pick a Republican with enough working digits to handle a pen to become president of the United States.
...the House and Senate doing the work, with the president signing the bills.
His job is to be captain of the team, to sign the legislation that HAS ALREADY BEEN PREPARED."

Unbelievable! Republicans take crap like that off of Nordquit! Who is he supposed to be anyway? Nordquist is basically saying "Hey, we know there's not a Republican out there today with a fully functioning brain, but that's just fine, we're gonna tell you exactly what to do. All we need to do is find somebody who is able to sign their name." Republicans are actually looking for an air head, a follower, NOT a leader. We saw where that got us last time with GWB.

If there is a Republican out there with any kind of fully functioning brain, then she/he's a Democrat.

Obama / Biden 2012

"..........*** Remember the Maine! The additional news coming out of Maine -- that one county turned in its results on Feb. 7 but weren’t included -- is a disaster for the GOP and the entire caucus system. (And this news is on top of that other county that postponed its caucuses due to snow and wasn’t counted, either.) The GOP caucuses (in Iowa, Nevada, and now Maine) have really taken it on the chin and raise real doubts about the integrity of the voting results. And Nevada is lucky its outcome wasn’t close….........."

LOL, just like the Democratic Presidential Primaries in Michigan and Florida back in '08.'

The results should have counted without debate. The whole thing about them holding their primaries early, and taking two wins away from Hillary took the momentum away from her at a time when it could have swung the nomination in her direction.

But instead, the Obama spin machine disenfranchised Democratic voters in both states, removing them from the process of selecting their party's candidate.

What happened in Maine was a mistake, an oversight.

But, Team-Obama PURPOSEFULLY pushed to squash the results in Florida and Michigan because he knew he was going to LOSE both primaries.

Alan, they are defending a man who violated the constitution by declaring that he, the president, could decide when congress was in session.

The same man who violated the War Powers Act with his Libyan "kinetic" military action.

Who violates the First Amendment with no thought whatsoever.

Who attempted to freeze out one media outlet- and was stopped, surprisingly, by the rest of the media.

Original thought is not welcome in the cult. They rely on regurgitated talking points.

Grover Norquist said this?

"The leadership now for the modern conservative movement for the next 20 years will be coming out of the House and the Senate.
Pick a Republican with enough working digits to handle a pen to become president of the United States.
...the House and Senate doing the work, with the president signing the bills."

Excellent insight. The Obama poodle media like MSNBC can spin for the Presidential election, but they have less control over the critical Congressional elections this fall.

The incredible gains in 2010 for the GOP at all levels of government, and the infusion of new talent, will result in the House and US Senate soldily under Republican control from 2013 forward; the Senate may have close to 60 Republicans.

Bob -- It doesn't take talent to copy legislation written for you. Talent would be a legislator the can actually write a bill him/herself.

Grover Norquist is just another puppet for the wealthy in this country... Its people like him that have allowed this country to go down the toilet... How a majority of members of congress can sign a pledge on taxes to this man and then take the oath of office is beyond me... Congress works for this man and not the citizens of America...

He belongs under a federal investigation and every part of his finances should be made public...

Fear Norquist? Why? He is just one vote.

The responsibility lies with the electorate. Fear them.

Paul,

"Things" like what? If you read his book 'Audacity", you saw in 3D that Barack Obama had a vision then, would know he's consistently pursued that vision and acted on it persistently throughout his career. And to great historic success as U.S. President.

Some things are not done yet but that is hardly surprising, given the bloodbrother pact made by GOP/Koch leaders & congressionals to block the President and our economy 150%; their Pledge to Master Norquistio and whoever else -the dark/undisclosed/unlimited/underworld of disney characters; the relentless historic filibuster regime, the devastating series of domestic and world catastrophes, the ginormous media LIE and KEEP LYING machine, not to mention the price of fish.

The worst thing we as women have done is to allow men this control!

@Nurse

I might add that any woman who votes for Santorum supports the vision that men should control women. Remember, Santorum is the one who claims rape is a gift of God, that rape babies are gifts of God. Anyone that twisted deserves a bit of karma. Forcing Santorum to carry a rape baby may change his view of that special little bundled up gift from God. Luckily for Santorum, bum babies don't survive.

@Backhouse #1: Actually Norquist has nothing to answer for. This Norquist is nothing more than a bedeviled dog, deluded by the scourge of rabies, and the warped manifestations of its ravage. The republican sucklings, elected to represent the people however, need not answer anything, but do need to be disposed of within the manner traditionally prescribed by a responsible electorate. Anything less would be inhumane.

"We are not auditioning for 'fearless leader'.
We don't need a president to tell us in what direction to go.
We just need a president to sign this stuff.
We don't need someone to think it up or design it.

Oh, my! It sounds like George W. Bush all over again. We really don't need that!

david walker,

I wish I had the time this morning to write an equally eloquent defense of the majority of men who treat our wives, girlfriends, and women in general as the partners, friends, associates, and cherished life companions they are.

The only way I can combat the type of person you describe is be a better man.

Well, Ben, then why did you find it necessary to mock David Walker's post? You could have said nothing. I suggest you re-read it, you will not find what your #1.35 protests, that is unless the "circle jerker" is the one who wrote your comment and claims no disrespect to women. The disease you mention is in your mind or you would not have suggested it. Have a nice day, Ben.

Backhouse, a truly chilling and frightening opening post.

Look at what we have:

Low info voters being spoon-fed propaganda by FOX and Hate Radio. No backstop. No alternate view.

Folks who are challenged when it comes to critical thinking lapping up every spoonful.

National MSM cowed into silence. Not daring to expose what FOX and Hate Radio are peddling. News has become flash and trash. Info-tainment. If it bleeds lit leads. Nothing more.

Anyone who steps forward and challenges the propagandists is ignored or dismissed. There is no federal requirement of equal time to prevent the public airwaves from being used by the wealthy corporations as propaganda machines and their target audience lacks the ability to understand what is happening to them.

What we have here is the frightening story-line for a science fiction novel or movie, only it's real, it's happening in real time right here before our very eyes.

And people like Grover Norquist are so powerful, so confident in the ignorance and gullibility (or apathy) of the American electorate that he can lay it all out to taunt those few of us in the opposition.

Be afraid America, be very afraid.

We do have time, the GOP's top two, Romney and Santorum and even Gingrich if you want to include him, are unelectable. GOP evangelicals and the far right will stay home if Romney is the nominee. Ron Paul estimates as much as 20% of the GOP will either stay home or vote for Obama. Santorum will cost the GOP the all important independent voters. Gingrich, well, moon-unit is such a disaster his own party is doing everything they can to torpedo him.

So President Obama has four more years. He may even have the support of an re-energized Senate and a majority in the House again. But BIG changes need to be made before we get to 2016 and big Chris Christie takes the field for the open seat.

We've got to get the Fairness Doctrine re-instated. That's number one. We've got to over-turn the various Citizens United rulings and get the corporations out of our elections. And we need to kick some ass. The Kochs, Murdoch, Norquist and the rest need to be taken down a peg. I don't know how we do that without becoming the monster we condemn, but it's got to be done.

Just a quick postscript. I know what I am talking about. We have one-party government here in Oklahoma. The State Legislature is controlled by the GOP. Our governor is nothing more than a glorified rubber-stamp who will sign ANYTHING the GOP House and Senate send to her. All the Statewide offices, Attorney General, Secretary of State, Education, Auditor, Labor, all of them are controlled by the GOP. The stuff that is going on here would scare any rational person to death.

Our latest bit of brilliance is a bill that would make it legal to carry a gun in church and extend coverage of our "make my day" law to church property. That way you can pop somebody in church and walk away scot-free if you were defending yourself, your fellow congregants or church property.

That's what Grover is talking about, one-party rule, that's what we've got here in Oklahoma.

Take this to heart my brothers and sisters. We've got four years to do something before Grover Norquist and the Kochs take over the country with the help of FOX and Rush Limbaugh. Get busy.

Obama/Biden 2012

Skip,

I was almost going to post about the transvaginal ultrasounds that Governor Bob McDonnell says he will definitely sign off on.

Big/little government?

Decided not to menshun it.

Norquist and your other "villains", the Koch brothers, should be investigated for what, exactly?

Backing candidates for office who share their views?

That is exactly what you propose.

Have any of you ever been in the same room with the Constitution of the United States? Do you not see how such an investigation is precluded by that document? A document without which we cease to exist as a country?

The modern day liberals have evolved into something far worse than ivory tower, perfect world, dreamers. They have created their own version of MacCarthyism- call it Obamaism.

That you would even raise such a specter- the specter of witch hunts for those who disagree with the idol of your cult- is simply breathtaking. That you congratulate each other on your doggedness in this vilification is sick making.

You cannot be defeated soundly enough.

Norquist is taking taking advantage of the #1 unwritten right of being an American. The right to be a jerk.

How stupid do you have to be to want a president that doesn't think and just rubber stamps everything. Give me real leadership any day. I'll take it from a Republican or Democrat or anyone for that matter. As long as they truly lead.

Was not, was not, going to mention this today.

Backhouse - tis a good thing to bring up. What we don't know is if this is part of the ALEC agenda. What we do know is that it is part of the extreme mania that is the GOPTPNORQUIST party agenda.

Republicans are the party of big government. Republicans are the party of government intrusion into individual rights. Republicans are the party of hatred. Republicans deserve every mud ball slung back at them.

Let's hope that this election, the voting public finally repudiates the lies, hatred, and destruction of the country brought forth by the GOP during the last mid-term election. This country will only be able to move forward if the evangelical, ultra-conservative, women/poor/disabled/minority hating minority in the Republican Party are removed from office. Only if they are forced to reevaluate what they truly stand for and for the Grand Old Party returns to its true form will they be able to actually lead this country again.

Ah NoJo, I had hopes for you ... but you have joined the cult of soulless hate ... in all of your posts I have yet to see a smile ... have you not read Moby Dick? Your arm is flailing in the wind hoping for followers to give you meaning.

Mark -- Your post and David's post negate the need for an eloquent defense of the majority. The posts and the fact you took the time to write them represent the truly terrific guys out there. Thanks for being a great example!

BackHouse :

Do you enjoy perpetuating bias information to suite your partisan habit?

To the matter of Exxon paying 0 income taxes. First we need to make note that this event occurred for only one year... specifically the 2009 tax season. Second... comes the understanding and backstory behind how this occurred... which I remind you was legal and to the letter of the law.

The first factor is that in 2008, Exxon over-paid its taxes meaning it was due a refund/return.

Second factor is a little piece of tax code legislation called the foreign tax credit. A brief summary for you BackHouse: If a company pays more than the US statutory income tax rate in foreign taxes... it gets a deduction. Exxon paid 47% of its income in foreign taxes in 2009.

Third... the bulk of Exxon's total profit for 2009 was earned overseas.

Fourth... while railing against Exxon... do remind yourself that it employs around 79,000 Americans providing paychecks and paying taxes on those salaries etc.

And I suppose while we're at it... its worth mentioning that the "subsidies" you were beating your fist over equated to less than 50 million dollars in 2009. For a multi multi billion dollar firm and with a global profit of 10+ billion in 2009... I'm sure this drop in the bucket was much appreciated... but... well, you make however big of a deal you want to out if it.

The bottom line is... if you're upset about all this... go beat on your Congressman's door as this is the way the tax code is, the law is etc... and plainly bellowing ... "raise taxes" doesn't solve the problem... it in fact worsens it as this increase would affect ALL top bracket corporations which don't have the same tax situation as Exxon or GE. For the record... the average -effective- (which accounts for loopholes) tax rates of top bracket corporations in the United States is between 26-29%... which is higher than the OECD average (20-22%).

Thanks American Girl,

With you Amy. With you Mac F.

Their angle on taxes, hiding behind a deceptive misinformation machine, dismantling safety nets, voting down milions of desperately needed jobs, destroying our ability to have workers negotiate around the table, getting rid of educators and folks who take of our streets and keep us safe, disenfranchizing the elderly, young and low-income, buying up our Congress with transnational monies, dissolving towns and the abililty to vote:

Is hurting millions of Americans, newborn to very old. Is hurting all of our futures.

I don't watch horror movies or death movies, and these guys are creating something like that but we must not look away right now. In life, we meet people who veer far away from doing good things. It can be misty and murky and not easy to identify. Once we have recognized them though, once they are clearly in view and - they are very good at deception - we are on our Way through their control and UP.

I see men, right and left, wrote very nice comments about the respect they have for their wives, etc. That is appreciated. I would suggest that be translated to sending messages to the legislators who seem not to share that respect, the ones in the Senate and House who are bringing legislation to the floor that would allow any employer to decide that its insurance will not authorize broad-based medical care based on a personal view, tell Rush Limbaugh that women who choose to work and choose to decide when to have a family are not Femi-Nazis, tell employers, legislators that equal pay for equal work should be automatic and legal action not necessary to enforce the law.

Send messages to VA's Republican Congress and Gov Bob McDonnell who think it is their right to impose an unnecessary, invasive procedure on women without their permission and the doctor has no say. What part of getting government out of people's lives requires a transvaginal ultrasound by the Big Brother republicans? The VA GOP Congress and McDonnell obviously have zero respect for women. Those are the people to which David Walker's post was directed.

Unbelievable! Republicans take crap like that off of Nordquit! Who is he supposed to be anyway? Nordquist is basically saying "Hey, we know there's not a Republican out there today with a fully functioning brain, but that's just fine, we're gonna tell you exactly what to do. All we need to do is find somebody who is able to sign their name."

And exactly how did this differ from the ACA? What solutions did the President propose that differed from those of Speaker Pelosi. Did the President not campaign on the policy that there would be no need for a mandate? Did the President not campaign on the slogan "If you like your insurance then nothing will change"? Where was his veto pen? Or did he just sign a bill that "had to be passed so we can find out exactly what's in it".

Yeah, there's a chief executive with a functioning brain and courage to stand up to the Speaker of the House.

@RatPoison

Please stop destroying the narrative with facts.

Dew Drop Crowd.

Jody, you are dead right. if I can fight, and these days it is but with words, it will be to defend my daughter's right to be what she can be and not have that right tempered by a man. All the glass ceilings need to come tumbling down.

We should learn about puppets and their puppeteers. After all we had one with G.W. Bush and his puppeteer Cheney. The difference is Cheney was a little more visible than Norquist.

An article that will shed some light on what the CPAC is up to:

Fear Norquist, because this little man holds power over the republican party and a few democrats...

Um, ideology? In your latest incarnation, you are a Canadian, ami I right? And newly, (November), joined?

Odd, is it not, that you are so concerned with the American election? And that you use the same language and tactics of all the other members of the LibsRUs group?

As to hatred- I am not the one vilifying, and calling for investigations of, my fellow PRIVATE American citizens.

That would be the Obama cult. They hate anyone not worshipping in their "church".

You can change your name- but the writing style remains the same.

See ya.

TO: J. Merle Stanley-2759623:

Why do Republicans continue their obsession with Democrats right smack dab in the middle of the Republican Primaries? It must be love!

More than likely it's because they know that Romney is going to lose Michigan AND any chance at the Republican nomination. It looks pretty darn bad for a candidate who can't even carry his own home state. LOL!

Obama / Biden 2012

Hey there, Ideology -

Look, you've finally achieved full cult status - hope NoJoe will let us all in on your other "secret identity"!

Meanwhile, I see on my calendar that it's Flag Day up there today, so this one's for you, buddy:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OxOhk4Lk9aE

(Sorry, I'm unable to sing "O Canada" without a cold beer in my hand and 17,776 fellow Flyers fans to back me up!)

NoJo, I had a previous incarnation? Who might that have been? I am only reincarnated by my muse and my lips seeking the fleeting hollows where nerves gather in anticipatory hiding.

I in my better posts use the tactics of my talent ... I have read your attempt at poetry, what can I say but that it is not the art of rhyming words. I am being kind.

Thanks JoAnne, although we are proud of our country, few of us know all the words to our anthem ... and like Mitt, I should not be allowed to sing ... scares the children!

Okay now that you have all driven the comments up to 77, the president NOW is a rubber stamper. All those lists of "40 accomplishments) that you continually post are full of "signed, approved, convened, and other such "original thinking and implementing" points. You really think he writes this stuff on napkin at the dinner table and passes it on to Congress to come up with a way to implement it? You are sadly mistaken.

ideology -

I remember that one from a Mormon Tabernacle Choir album of patriotic songs my parents bought when we got our first stereo (as opposed to a "hi-fi" or "record player") - must have been way back in 1964 or thereabouts. Also had "Finlandia" and "Hatikva" and "Give Me Your Tired, Your Poor", along with the best version of "America The Beautiful" ever (sorry, Mitt):

"Oh beautiful for patriots dream that sees beyond the years....thine alabaster cities gleam, undimmed by human tears".

I still get goosebumps just thinking about it. Great poetry, great music. And yes, it's not all about the rhymes.

JoAnne, I get goosebumps listening to Fanfare for the Common Man by Aaron Copland

I find it interesting that once again bob-1805084' s post at 1.6 (which is filled with facts and analysis of Pres. Yomama's Budget proposal) is collapsed by the 'forward thinking', freedom of speech loving, liberals at FR.

Apparently, at FR Freedom of Speech is only afforded to those who have fallen far to the left. Go figure. (you hypocrites)

(show me the clown nose, fisty!)

Grover is simply voicing the typical RepubliCAN'T presidential candidate's credentials: not too bright and willing to do whatever he is told; in other words, a useful idiot. The front runners fit the bill nicely.

SOTB & bob-180,

In 2011 corporate taxes were 12.5% of net profits – a 40year low.

SickOfTheBickering

Ah but for a dollar for every Feisty clown nose post that has been collapsed.

I don't find it that interesting... when you make infer that others (here) posting here are 'stupid'... you get collapsed per Rule #1 of the COH. In addition... some of his numbers are a little off and outdated... however they are still in line with the trend and point he is making (in other words, the correct numbers don't change the point of his very valid comment).

Ultimately... the point is... don't follow the lead of Feisty Redhead and Beverly in Chicago and be respectful of other's using this forum/comment string, to which Bob's string toes and likely crosses the line. Public figures... and politicians are a different story though to which rule #1 does not apply.

Hope that clarifies the potential reason as to why the "community" collapsed the comment (though collapses because of simple politics is also likely).

Backhouse - the .com bubble and the economy went into recession in June 2000 and jobs began to decrease in Jan 2001. The 2 year loss of revenue as unemployment increased.

The Bush Policies were not passed until Sept 2001, and then you dump 911 on top of it.

The same thing happened in 2008. The only thing that kept GM and the banking system from collapsing in 2008 was TARP. Without it we would have been experiencing 20%+ unemployment.

Mark in SoCal

david walker,

I wish I had the time this morning to write an equally eloquent defense of the majority of men who treat our wives, girlfriends, and women in general as the partners, friends, associates, and cherished life companions they are.

The only way I can combat the type of person you describe is be a better man.

Thanks to both of you gents for putting it all into words. I have a husband who subscribes to your school of thought. I'm thankful to have him every day of my life. I wish all women could experience such supportive and understanding men in their lives.

SOTB,

My favorite collapse was when they collapsed the OMB Table showing revenues under Bush .... they actually collapsed the Office of Management and Budget when it refuted their tax narrative.

Dennis,

Yea, that's what happens when you have clueless ideologue who initiates a war on war business coming out of a recession.

What's your point .... community organizers really suck at being president?

Dennis, Columbus, Ohio:

Like Backhouse... it seems you only want to present the part of the picture that suites your partisan interests. So lets get to the missing information in your very brief comment.

For starters... the estimate on the effective corporate tax rate for 2011 is being performed by the Wall Street Journal based on the CBO's numbers and is by a different method than the CBO, World Bank, and many other think tanks and economists use to calculate the effective tax rate of corporations. The Wall Street Journal calculated a total tax rate of 12.1%.

Typically... the effective rate is calculated for 'top bracket' corporations rather than all... this is because top bracket (higher profit) corporations pay at a higher rate, and smaller businesses will scale down to lesser rates. So from the very start... our first issue is that the Wall Street Journal did not discern who was top bracket or not, or account for the sliding or properly called... progressive tax system we have in the United States. It is important to compare apples to apples which means being specific about what the statistic represents.

The next issue we have... is that this was not a permanent tax break or a reduction in the actual or statutory tax rate which is... and will remain the highest among OECD nations (Japan is second after a 5% slash)... This phenomena... or rather the bulk of the drop is actually related to... ... drum roll please... ... Obama's stimulus package. That's right folks... Obama's stimulus package.

Here's the details on that. As we should all know well enough... only part of the stimulus package was directly poured into the economy... the rest of it went out in the form of various tax breaks and relief programs. One of these programs allowed corporations/businesses to take write-offs on capital investments (like purchasing new equipment) all at one time. The emphasis is on at --all-- at --one time--. This is different than usual which allows businesses to write-off the depreciation of value of equipment in their taxes from year to year. The result is a radical, nonpermenant drop in the tax rate for those corporations which were able to take advantage and purchase equipement.

Do note... that this was a part of the stimulus package... and designed to encourage businesses to retool and purchase equipment (and stimulate the economy) and to then reward them by allowing them to take a break that they normally get all at once rather than over time.

It is widely written in CBOs reports that the United States... like many other industrial countries give significant tax breaks to businesses that purchase equipment and property for activites that in some cases fully pays for the purchase itself.

Again... and I stated this to Backhouse... if you have an issue with this... then take it up with your Congressman... and in this case, with your President as well. They're the ones who design these things... and if you think they're wrong then railing against businesses who are only following the law and their benefits (as we all should or do)... is the wrong place to be directing your angst.

bob-180,

My point is that your claim of highest tax rates is, like most your claims, bull.

What the "rate" is v what they actually pay are worlds apart.

ROMNEY SHOULD DROP OUT!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Speaking of clowns. All the Repubs are just that (CLOWNS). But like all Politicians have you seen Obamas ears and his growing nose.

My claim wasn't bull, I stated tax rate not effective rate.

Hat tip to Rat Poison on catching Japan dropping below the US, btw.

In addition to RP's point, revenues / growth is really stalled. Generally speaking, tax revenue is more a product of a healthy economy than tax rate. That is the primary reason why Obama's revenue numbers suck so bad.

And finally, tax reform is needed more than anything ... what does the rate matter if you are GE with an army tax lawyers and accountants that file 25,000 page returns that result in no taxes paid?

Your problem is that Obama would never do this.

How would he be able to pick the winners and losers, manipulate business in pursuit of his agenda?

I don't see what the big deal is over Romney's trouble in Michigan (and apparently, Ohio). All he has to do is have his super-pac drown Santorum in negative ads and he'll win, just like he did to Gringrich in Florida! Problem solved! Sheesh!

Obama in 2012!

Bob-180,

You blame our President even given the fact that when he took office the economy was in free-fall at -8.5% growth, the absolute worst by 2 times since the Great Depression.

This is where and why your opinion always gets in the way of the facts.

RatPoison -- The WSJ reported that these businesses took full advantage of the write-offs. The issue now is that the Administration and business want to extend the break for another few years, I believe. (Once in place it's hard to take it away.)

Did it stimulate as promised? Well it certainly helped the GDP as evidenced in a few of those quarters.

The argument you are missing in my opinion is that people feel underrepresented and over burdened when it comes to the issue of taxation. The truth is it does favor business over individual. Write-offs, credits, accounting privileges etc. are vast and limited to one set of society. Additionally, that set also enjoys the few individual gimme's the tax code allows on one's personal income taxes.

Either our legislators clean up the entire code or allow everyone the privilege of incorporating themselves. After all we are not just consumers, we are real estate investors, we spend money on capital improvements and we take risks investing in the market through our retirement accounts. To allow one set of society (business) to socialize all losses, socialize all capital improvements costs and benefit from special rules such as "carried interest" and "loss carried forward" forces the rest of us to carry almost the entire tax burden load, IMHO.

Personally, I'm in favor of a totally clean 3 tier progressive tax rate for all. Everyone, including business can stand/fall. Stop the gimmicks, favoritism and attempts at social engineering through the tax code. It's obviously failed for the majority, in other words, the consumer.

Dennis, Columbus, Ohio :

Your avoidance of all the facts in lieu of the ones you like creates giant potholes in the path to reaching your conclusions.

The issue you describe of "free-fall" relates more to the type of economy we've been building for the past few decades to hide a problem that is over half a century old. In reality, our economy hasn't grown by the extent and numbers put up annually that people cheer about. Well that's not wholely true... either, our economy has been growing, but it has been growing only because our government continues to spend deficits... and American consumers and business continue to extend themselves and their purchases beyond good reason with debt.

The whole issue of our economy is debt and there is quite simply no room for party politics in this debate because Democrats and Republicans alike... subscribe to the same policy and contribute to perpetuating the eventual disaster.

Starting in the 60s, our economy began a shift from one that had a trade surplus and domestic production supported by American consumers... to one that began consuming greater and greater quantities of foreign products. 1975 marks the final year this country had a trade surplus, and by 2008... our trade deficit was peaking at a trillion dollars. That's a trillion dollars out of the pockets of consumers.

Consequently, when you begin matching up this shift in our economy's foundation and other economic factors... we find that there is a relationship.

For example... the middle class boomed following WWII which was also the period of time the United States had a good trade surplus. In the 60s and 70s... trade was balanced... and consequently, the middle classes growth slowed... their rate of income increase flattened with it. In the 80s to today... the middle class has been shrinking and middle class income along with it (down 2% this past year)... and shocker... we've been running trade deficits.

Also in parallel with these trends is the government's spending. The most drastic increases to the governments budget have been in times when the economy has hit a bust in a previous boom. Despite the final years of Clinton, the government's spending has in reality... not decreased, but the deficits have fluctuated with these booms and busts. Clinton enjoyed the dot com boom which burst in his last year leaving Bush with a recessed economy. Bush boomed housing, which then busted... leaving us with the recessed economy. But all along the way... government spending has not decreased but has increased following these busts. The reason for this is the economic theory both parties follow (Keynesian Theory), but also because it is the only way they know how to handle a situation... 'throw money at it'.

Subsequently the shrinkage of the middle class coincides with trade which coincides with continued government deficits which primarily exist to hide the hole in our economy and put money in the hands of consumers so as to keep our economy cycling. Because Americans spend more money on foreign products and do not sell/export an equal value... every dollar spent as debt is eventually lost... piece by piece.

Welcome to "trickle out" economics.

The rich continue to become richer because unlike most of us... they are invested in the foreign economies that produce the goods Americans buy. This is why corporations support candidates like Romney and Obama... this is why billionaire investors rally behind them... because as long as the government continues to spend money... which regardless of the party will eventually end up in the hands of consumers... these investors and corporations will continue to make money.

Dennis... your very own information elludes to this issue, and you don't have to go far to find additional statistics demonstrating this... that American corporations are doing more business overseas than they are in the United States. Businesses like GE and Exxon which are often favorite targets for liberals and their "tax" rhetoric don't have huge tax bites because the amount of money they make in the United States is laughable compared to the other markets they're in. I believe it was in 2009 that GE lost money in the United States but made money overall globally.

At anyrate... ultimately the point is that each bust our economy suffers will have steeper and greater falls than the one prior to it... because our economy is false. And there to pick up the tab and pieces to perpetuate this poisoned system will be Democrats and Republicans alike to borrow and spend. Obama... Romney... likely Santorum and Gingrich are all participants in this ideology and the partisan bickering is precisely why we don't realize we're having vaseline rubbed in our butt cracks by the big scruffy lad behind us.

We need to get off this bend... look at the facts, judge things as good and bad, right and wrong as a whole... separate of party and with the ideals of liberty and freedom in mind to have a shot at preserving The Great Experiment.

You blame our President even given the fact that when he took office the economy was in free-fall at -8.5% growth, the absolute worst by 2 times since the Great Depression.

And American history demonstates that the greater the plunge - the more robust the recovery.

I blame Obama for wantonly ignoring historical fact .... ignoring policies that have proven to work and installing policies that have provenly failed.

Defend his budget .... how do all the new taxes, burdens help for the creation of jobs.

How does spending $47 trillion over the next 10 years .... when interest payment on debt alone will be a trillion a year help anything?

Too many Americans suffering, too many lives being destroyed to being playing community organizer games.

Dont carry it all :

In all fairness, I've not stated what I would do or think should be done to remedy the tax code

We both agree is in need of heavy revision. It is over built, complicated, and ridiculously bias. A simple... here's your tax rate ought to be discerned, loop-holes for the most part tossed out, and a rate selected that puts us at a competition and encouraging spot.

Furthermore... I find it ironic that while the Democrats and Obama railed against tax cuts for businesses and individuals yet they included the tax break we're discussing here in the stimulus package (amongst others)... and then argued that tax breaks for businesses don't promote hiring of people.

Of course... that's a given... you can give a business all the tax breaks you want, if there is no additional demand, then the business won't hire people and asking them to hire people under the backwards thinking pushed by Obama and the Democrats is asinine ("We gave you money, now hire people so that these people have paychecks, so they can start buying, and hopefully they'll be demanding your product and not the cheaper Chinese one... etc etc.")...

The other issue I find with Obama, the Democrats, and those who are out drawing the line in the sand at a $250,000 income as being "rich" or the starting point for where taxes need to be raised... don't seem to recognize that most businesses in the United States don't pay corporate taxes. They instead pay their businesses taxes as personal income through the designation of S-Class corporations. This means that if you're a business owner and your salary is 52,000 a year and your business grossed $250,000... that you would be one of the "victims" of this rhetoric from Obama and the Democrats.

It seems like a hell of a way to blast one's self in the foot to talk up about wanting to help small businesses and then ignoring this important fact in our tax code.

The bottom line... it's never as simple as the partisan individuals want to make it seem... there is seemingly a level of hypocrisy in virtually ever partisan debate... and we the people are so caught up in this debate of politics that we lose sight of the big picture. And that extends beyond just straight up economics... for example... national security. The number of freedoms and right to privacy that has been ripped from us by the government is disturbing... between the Patriot Act, Gitmo, SB - 1867... it's just getting downright disturbing for me and I assume others.

RatPoison -- As I find it ironic that Republicans (Romney) would continue to deplete revenues through more tax cuts when deficits/debts are so high.

Most democrats I know understand spending needs to wind down. Where the sides disagree are where to cut the spending.

As for small business being harmed at the $250K level.....raise it to $500K IMO.

Concerning S Corps, look to the ESOP's and IRC 512(e)(3) and the possible enactment IRC 1042. Some S Corps appear to be more privileged than others.

RatPoison

I don't find it that interesting... when you make infer that others (here) posting here are 'stupid'... you get collapsed per Rule #1 of the COH.

Hey Rat...

Are you sure you want to talk about the COH here at FR? The regular lefties here LOVE to use foul language, call names and even threaten personal attacks on those that disagree with them. They are filled with hate and anger. Heck... Fisty even uses a form of the F-BOMB in her moniker! Yet the hypocrites that administer this site allow them to carry on, unabated.

Believe me... Here at FR, Rule #1 is that THERE IS NO HONOR AMONG LEFTIES AT FR!

No. I think the collapse-action that takes place on FR is totally designed to suppress differing political opinions and has nothing to do with protecting freedom of speech or a code of honor!

(as always... show me the clown nose, fisty!)

Exxon paid 47% of its income in foreign taxes in 2009. ...the average -effective- (which accounts for loopholes) tax rates of top bracket corporations in the United States is between 26-29%...

But, how can this be? I clearly heard Republicans saying that American corporate taxes are the highest in the world. How can Exxon pay more in foreign countries? Please explain...

Mark: you missed the boat, pal...Norquist doesn't have a single "vote"...he's not elected. That's exactly the point about his influence, get it?

What does it say about the sorry state of the Republican field of candidates, that the nominal front runner is struggling not only to carry his HOME state, against the most extreme candidate in the field, but still can't articulate any reason whatsoever for actually wanting the job?

Bob: Tax breaks don't create jobs...boy have you swallowed that nonsense hook, line and sinker...

Jobs are created when DEMAND increases...and that happens when consumers start increasing demand (you know...consumers?? those folks your party puts last who are at the bottom of that silly ol' trickle down stuff ?)

Your right, Backhouse, that IS scary. Having a Tea Party Republican in office is scary enough, but to have a FIGUREHEAD as president???? That is INSANE!!!! Hey Traitor Norquist??? Are you just trying to piss Americans off???? Do you know that what you are actually proposing is having a FIGUREHEAD as leader of the free world??? The Ryan budget will KILL the middle class. It does practically nothing to raise tax revenue, contains only $4.6 trillion of the estimated $6.2 trillion cuts because 20% goes to repealing Obamacare, even though it is projected to decrease deficits by about $200 billion over the next ten years, and cuts massively into social programs like Medicare. It even privatizes Medicare and leaves seniors at the mercy of the vicious "free market."

David, way to go. Not a fan of the feminist stuff, but pretty articulate. Where do you get your knowledge???

I have a REAL way to fix the economy, which will beat any of the GOP clowns' plans. It also reduces the deficit by a substantial amount and gets America on track to pay down our debt in a BALANCED manner.

I. Reduce the debt by $8 trillion over 10 years.

• $750 billion in defense cuts: cut waste in private contracting; reduce investments in new military projects to more sustainable levels; reduce active military personnel by about 8%; demolish 200 bases to save over $55 billion a year; prioritize investments for drones, efficient weapon systems, and cyber-defense systems.
• $1.25 trillion in entitlement savings: Raise payroll cap to 90% of income; reinstate COLA; reinstate estate taxes; raise premiums for beneficiaries who make over $250,000; progressive indexing.
• Cut $1.5 trillion from discretionary spending except from NASA and Department of Education. Find ways to remove waste, trim costs, etc.
• Save $2.8 trillion by repealing Bush tax cuts but retaining about $700 billion for the middle class.
• Institute Buffet Rule and save $500 billion.
• Reform tax code: decrease about 90% of all tax expenditures unless they are PROVEN to promote a significant amount of growth. Close loopholes, lower corporate tax rate to between 20-25%. Eliminate all corporate welfare. Approximate savings=$947 billion a year.
• Reduce subsidies to oil companies, farmers, and ethanol producers by $100 billion.
• Total savings=$15 trillion plus perhaps trillions more in interest.

I am not joking. Check (http://www.cbpp.org/cms/index.cfm?fa=view&id=3472). Just removing 90% of our tax code's loopholes and tax expenditures would save $947 billion a year. Maybe we ought to do that and simply reform entitlements and we'd have practically no debt by about 2022.

II. Economic Recovery Package

• Education reform. Increase funding for Department of Education, adopt RAND education policy and further Head Start programs.
• Create Department of Tourism with $36 billion budget to support 150,000 employees to speed up process for foreign tourists to apply for visas to US and make system more efficient.
• $90 billion in infrastructure bank to leverage capital for infrastructure repairs to employ millions of Americans.
• Incorporate policies of Obama's Jobs Bill.
• Offer incentives for businesses to buy US-made equipment and to employ people in America to the tune of perhaps $2,000-$3,000 per head; includes only people earning the median salary that the companies provides for its workers.
• Increase duties and tariffs for Chinese goods to 35% until China appreciates its currency and lowers subsidies; place more cases on Chinese fraud and stealing,
• $60 billion in incentives and federal loans and grants to green technology.
• Regulatory overview to decrease unnecessary regulations for economy and add regulations were needed.
• Reinstate Glass-Steagall.
• Lift moratorium on offshore oil drilling and open up certain areas for energy exploration WITH safety and environmental precautions and insure safety.
• Invest $40 billion in new R&D projects.
• Offer more scholarships and Pell grants; prioritize scholarships to promote getting degrees in engineering, technology, etc.
• Negotiate lower tuition deals with private institutions in return for aid and invest more money public higher education. Negotiate with states for a state education surtax to pay for public universities.
• Help housing market: tighten regulations on housing and financial markets, reform Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac; create partnership programs between the government and the private sector to buy houses and rent it out to former owners; persuade banks to write off parts of underwater mortgages; quicken time for foreclosures; demolish old buildings to open up to construction projects.
• Increase federal gasoline tax to $.225/gallon and use extra revenues to revamp infrastructure.
• Extend payroll tax cut.

I could really use some feedback

An outstanding post, Backhouse. Thanks for exposing the facts here...the Conservative elites DEMAND a President who'll take his orders directly from a Congress that has a 10% approval rating!

Meanwhile Albany's most reliable political propagandist totally ignores the reality of the poll he cites. Far from proving that small businesses aren't hiring due to Affordable Care it in fact proves EXACTLY THE OPPOSITE. The cost of health care and government regulations don't even rank in the TOP HALF of all reasons cited for not hiring. http://www.gallup.com/poll/152654/Health-Costs-Gov-Regulations-Curb-Small-Business-Hiring.aspx?utm_source=alert&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=syndication&utm_content=morelink&utm_term=Business

The top reason, cited by 76% of all respondents? "Don't need any additional employees at this time"

That's right, after all this whining and gnashing of teeth by Conservatives the REAL problem in the economy remains the same...lack of demand. And they STILL have no solution for that.

That's a program with a lot to recommend, Freshieee. One of the things Conservatives most want to paper over is the fact that additional revenue MUST be part of the solution. The reason is simple. Income taxes as a proportion of GDP are at only 15%, the lowest since 1950. To be sustainable, therefore, everything we've found worth doing since 1950 MUST BE DISCONTINUED. More, in fact, since Conservatives are so enamored with their corporate welfare.

John B, Des Moines, IA :

Soak up the bias John B, Des Moines, IA. Backhouse has left off critical facts that frame the conversation to his bias and deprive you and others who read it and nothing but it of an actual sincere debate that accounts for the big picture and the real problems.

Sick of the Bickering :

It's ironic to read you comment about the COH in light of the collapsed comment in parrallel to the repeated violations of Feisty et al. My recommendation, stay above them... don't belittle yourself to play their games. I take it as... an indication that when my opponent resorts to name calling and insults that they have come up against a brick wall and cannot counter argue or articulate a coherent thought.

Dont carry it all :

So you propose keeping the same issue and only moving the line in the sand? How about something less controversial, simpler, and sensible? For example... erase corporate income taxes and then tax individuals on income alone... be it income from investments or income from a paycheck.

S-corporations exist as a form of 'single' taxation... It's a benefit given to these smaller corporations that is to help support small business. C-corporations... the big boys... the money they make ends up being taxed twice in the current system. It's taxed as corporate income, and then the shareholders and owners pay taxes on the money they take from the already taxed income. So if the government is taxing the same money twice, and has made special rules for those small businesses... why not just redo the scale, streamline it, make it based on individual income and move on to the next item?

The down side for the government is that without corporate income taxes... if the corporation instead sits on the money it makes... that money isn't taxed. It wouldn't be until that money is spent on whatever or used in pay outs and paychecks that the government would then be able to tax it. This would potentially allow businesses to rely less on loans and debts and allow the government to do away with tax breaks around debt purchases by a business etc.

But it's a dirty word... or an evil thing to put forth the idea of 0 income taxes on the evil evil corporations.

It's an idea I'm kicking around and seeing what points people raise as to why it is a bad/good idea and seeing what comes out of it. I do however think that picking up the line in the proverbial sand and moving it to $500,000 is just kicking the issue down the line hoping that there is a smaller minority to complain about it. Needless to say... creating a small business that grosses $500,000 in profit before tax isn't exceptionally difficult to do in certain industries.

Anywho...

RP -- Until total tax reform is undertaken in an ernest way, we are stuck within the quagmire our legislators produced.

I've yet to hear a compelling argument for 0 taxes on corporations. The best argument for taxing them is the fact they need to be good responsible citizens who contribute to the services and structures that allow them to succeed in their endeavors.

As for moving the line in the sand, well, we are working under the tax code in place. I suggested that amount, conceding that business and individuals who reside on the coasts in particular, pay a premium on housing, rent, and operating a business. It is relative.

As for S corps, those solely owned by ESOP's, include some large multi-nationals, whom operate without paying income tax.

I do agree income is income is income and should be taxed accordingly.

. The best argument for taxing them is the fact they need to be good responsible citizens who contribute to the services and structures that allow them to succeed in their endeavors.

So you're saying corporations are people? ...

...

We're the people, you and me... and everyone else... we're the business owners, the laborers, the beneficiaries of the system. Corporations are not people, they are creations ran by people and it is people who need to pay taxes. As long as people are paying taxes based on their earnings then there is no good reason to tax a business for its income. There is no point in double taxation other than the government can't seem to simplify things and pick a rate and scaling that gets the job done for the revenue required to keep the country together... which in my opinion, actually takes a heck of a lot less than what they're currently trying to spend.

You'll have to cite an example of a multinational S-corp business owned by the rules set forth for an ESOP. S-corporations are very specific in the rules they have... the most important of those is perhaps the requirement to have only one type of stock and 500 or less share holders. Revenue and profits are also subject to review and disqualification for s-corp status. So I'd very much like to see an example, or a source that reveals some of these multinational s-corp ESOP ran firms.

RP -- Citizens United said corporations are people. They can spend unlimited amounts contributing to political pacs, so it shouldn't be a problem to pay taxes. Corporations/business benefit from publicly funded things such as infrastructure, defense and protections provided under our laws both here and abroad. Expensive endeavors. Again, until our legislators fix the entire mess with total reforms, we operate under today's tax code. I have read though that this Administration is working on lowering the corporate rate.

My source of information on ESOP's is a Senior Revenue Agent at the IRS and have no reason to believe he would lie.

Actually... you should read the written brief from the SCOTUS or at least a law review of the decision as the statement, "Citizens United said corporations are people" is a talking point.

Corporations have had an established personhood since 1819 and the case of Dartmouth College v Woodward. In 1886 the Supreme Court ruled on a case that gave corporations 14th amendment protections and wrote the phrasing "corporate personhood" in their briefing. Corporate personhood has been supported by court rulings for 200 years.

Which brings us to Citizens United. Because corporations are afforded equal rights, and money is considered a form of speach... and in accordance with 200 years of court decisions, it was obvious that the court would deem the law unConstitutional. Corporations are to be treated equally.

Which brings us back to Congress and their lack luster performance or care to address this highly politicized point. If anybody in Congress was actually serious about getting corporations out of our elections... it would simply be a matter of drafting and passing a law that put everybody on equal terms. But you won't see any of that because despite the other talking point... that Republicans are for big business and Democrats are for the people... both parties have their hands in the pockets of corporations and vice versa.

...

I, like Jefferson, don't see corporations as people. But... if you drop back with me and consider our tax code... then you have an argument to tax corporations because the courts have been viewing corporations as people for quite some time. And we the people are doomed to pay taxes.

Well... I don't see corporations as people, and as such, I see no point in double taxing the money they make. When people actually take that money from the business entity... they are gaining wealth... and while I still hate the idea of income taxes period... if we are to have one... this is most certainly the time to tax people. Simple... plain... straight forward. All the government has to do is figure out what it think it needs, what our economy can support, and what keeps us competitive... and then make it so.

...

I have read zero reports in taxes regarding multinational ESOPs dodging taxes. Without even the name of such a firm... it is hard to confirm what you assert and even discuss it. I have no reason to trust the claim unfortunately. However... fortunately... it's a minor point because the only way a business dodges taxes ... legally... is by being able to take advantage of breaks, loopholes, deductions, etc. Which goes right back to the agreed upon point that our tax code is bias, broken, and overly complex...

Which goes right back to the agreed upon point that our tax code is bias, broken, and overly complex...

Agreed.

I heard that the loopholes in the tax code (including numerous deductions) cost the US about $1.053 trillion every year. If we could somehow eliminate just half of that, we could save about $5 trillion over the next decade plus interest. Eliminate about 2/3, and we save $7.02 trillion over ten years plus interest. We'd cover most of the decade's deficits, and be able to focus on cuts to defense and entitlement reform and then start stimulating the economy. If only Congress wasn't so divided...

UNDIVIDED CONGRESS 2012

DEMOCRATIC CONGRESS 2012

Chester, how is it that this stunning lack of consumer confidence started before Barack Obama was even the NOMINEE for President, let alone the candidate?

Other than that I don't see anything except a bunch of boilerplate Conservative talking points.

Independent Redneck and others concerned for the future of America:

Grover Norquist is the rotten fruit of the Young Republicans of 30 and 40 years ago. I urge all of you to check his ties with Jack Abramoff and so many others with identical roots. They are tearing down the United States

In the years since Norquist, et al. have been so busy decrying the evils of Washington, D.C. they have successfully used government power to redistribute money to the wealthy. That is the absolute truth.

Billions of dollars from Big Money and Corporate America have created the most powerful lobbyists in history. These are the people who fight any and all regulations for the sole purpose of creating ever greater profits, even as they destroy the air, land, and water.

They have completely taken over the Republican Party with their promises to fight abortion, protect gun rights, stop the assault on religion, and protect other straw men. And the weak-minded believe this nonsense. No one will ever end abortion. No one has taken guns away. No laws interfere with religion. These are nothing more than diversions to keep the low-intellect crowd drooling in their pablum.

The real goal of the Norquist's and their ilk is to reduce the vast majority of Americans to slave status. Their plan is working. The United States stands alone in history as the one country that was actually able to create something of a middle class, and Norquist and his evil henchmen and lackeys cannot stand it. How stupid are his followers to deny the obvious? They are the targets of the effort to dispossess the majority of citizens.

That's the ugly truth. Republicans cannot be allowed to run this country.......into the ground. That is their plan.

Exactly, David Walker. Norquist makes his true vision of himself as "the man behind the throne" evident. His view that they just need someone who can sign legislation is frightening. It is also demeaning to those running for the Presidency. What he is saying is that the Republican Party needs the dumbest guy they can find to rubber stamp the Norquist/Koch brothers take over of this country. Now, I may agree that either Romney or Santorum fits that definition, but in my heart, I know we need two healthy political parties, one in power, the other the loyal opposition, so that reasonable compromise may be found. The Republican Party is no longer the loyal opposition, having put party ahead of country.

Shame on all of them, and all who support this nonsense.

David The only thing that stands between Grover getting his way and him disappearing into the never-never land that all of his particularly brand of wing-nuttery seems to inhabit is the Will of the People. I will continue to rely on that from my fellow Americans of both parties. All's you can do is continue to bring it to the People's attention something that even our hosts seem to be falling down on lately.

IR----Romney doesn't even seem to stand up to his campaign staff. He just seems to do whatever they tell him to do. Plus I'm not sure he has ever thought beyond getting elected---he just wants to be President.

IR, seems you and Backhouse were on the same page, great minds as they say. Terrific posts by you both! David Walker, more facts for all to ponder.

What he is saying is that the Republican Party needs the dumbest guy they can find to rubber stamp the Norquist/Koch brothers take over of this country

Ah, this explains why conservatives are against condom usage. They need all that rubber for stamps.

republican/tea baggers At your brokered convention nominate grover norquest for president. It gets old having other people speak for him and doing his bidding. Just have him convince us that he's right. Not his little toadies. You know the republican/tea bag party

IR, David and everyone -- We need a President that will VETO that type of legislation!

Keep on keeping on!

Grover Norquist and those Congresspersons who kiss his ring are traitors to our country.

We have one President at a time in America and for these people to think they can ride rough-shod over the Constitution with this "pledge" nonsense should be asked to self-deport!

Ahhhh Grover - well this explains how GWB got elected!

Right on David and Independent Redneck. Score one for the boys back home.

Grover Norquist and the GOP are extremely close to destroying the United States economy. With too many tax cuts weakening the government and strengthening the private sector, the rich will get richer, the poor will remain poor, and the middle class will shrink. Their beloved ideas of supply-side economics and corporate welfare have cost this nation its economy, it's fiscal health, and even more frightening, its middle class. WE NEED to destroy the monster that is the GOP before it destroys America itself. We need to return the ideas of investment in social services, innovation, strong defense and sensible foreign policy. NONE of the GOP candidates (not even good ol' Ron Paul) is going to fix America. NONE. After dropping in and out from watching CPAC, I am scared for the future of America and for the November election. I pray that the American voter will use common sense, but I don't have that much faith in the electorate, especially after 2000 and 2010.

I call upon all commentators to heed this advice; get out and vote. Vote to stop the right-wing extremism that is threatening America. Vote to give the middle class a helping hand and control the giant monster that is the Republican Electoral Republic. Vote to help our economy recover from trickle-down economics. Vote to restore America to a land where EVERYONE has equal opportunity to succeed and does their fair share for the nation. This is the most important election in our lifetime. I beg that you will not disappoint the next generation and vote for a better future for them. Obama may not be the best president, but he has done many things for America. Plus, he's the only moderate on the table. If you don't want to do this for America, do it for your children. Do it for the next generation, whose future depends on November's results.

Obama Biden 2012

America 2012

Equal Opportunity and Equal Service 2012

Then why is his approval rating 5 times that of Congress?

The funny thing, matt---when I heard the attack ad against Santorum with its emphasis on "raised the debt ceiling" and voted for spending---I thought---who was President when he did these evil things---why it was George Bush. So they are critical of him for doing Republican things. This when Romney's tax plan would increase the deficit and he wants to have another war. I just don't get it.

Since our country was founded, Congress has been raising the debt ceiling with both parties objecting at times depending on who was in power but they always raised it because the Government cannot declare bankruptcy and survive. The past two years, the debt ceiling has become another GOP talking point yet every republican running for the GOP nomination's tax plans and policies would add trillions more to it. Talk about hypocrisy, geez, the GOP seems to have added a new layer to it.

Well, I may not have read the biographies of Romney and Santorum, but I do have an idea of their positions.

Let's start with Slick Mitt. He opposes abortion, gay marriage (used to support), advocates more spending for the defense budgets, supports the Ryan Budget (which is full of accounting gimmicks, faulty facts, and HUGE cuts to social services like Medicare and food stamps), wants to give the millionaires approximately $140,000 in more breaks while giving the middle class about a few hundred bucks and actually INCREASING taxes on those who make LESS than $40,000 (if that ain't class warfare then I don't know what is). Supports lax regulation of the economy, opposes Obamacare (at least publicly), is willing to attack Iran, shore up Israel and alienating our Arab allies (not anti-Israel, actually pro-Israel, but tired of us fighting their battles), neocon foreign policy, no negotiations to end Afghan war peacefully (what is so bad about negotiations? We did it in World War II and that was our greatest victory yet), and supports a tougher stance on China. Not to mention against global warming.

Radical Rick opposes gay marriage (compares it to polygamy), abortion, contraceptives, "fiscal conservative," supports massive tax breaks to the wealthy, wants to severely cut federal budgets, willing to attack Iran, no negotiations with Taliban, neocon foreign policy, no revenue increases, lax regulation, radically pro-Israel, tough stance on China, wants federal amendment to define marriage as between a man and a woman (unconstitutional. Who has that right but God (or fate, for any non-religious people out there)?), against global warming, hates Obamacare, and probably supports prayer and religion in public schools.

OBAMA BIDEN 2012

Jody--- If the Republican party nominates Santorum, then they will cement an image in the minds of independent voters as a party that only represents the fringe of American politics. Are they really that insane? I hope so.

It seems to me that when your most public comment about your former home state neighbors was "let Detroit go bankrupt", you are going to have a hard time winning that home state.

I don't think Rick Santorum's role in the election of 2012 is going to be as Republican nominee; rather it is to show that someone with more political ability than the previous front-runners and less baggage than Newt can fire up their base in a way Romney can't. So now they have to get rid of Romney somehow and bring in someone else who can do the same thing.

Tom, I think they are.

Steeler, Ezra Klein gave a really good explanation about why it is unlikely there would be a brokered convention. While it is possible someone else might jump in the race between now and then, that person really doesn't have time to get on the remaining primary ballots. I just don't think any of the more viable candidates want anything to do with this election especially now that the economy is improving. If it did go to the convention, that last minute appointed nominee would not have much time to sell himself to voters, it would make the GOP look even more dysfunctional and unorganized than it already appears, it would anger the delegates who represent the candidates who have won. However, conventional wisdom seems obsolete this year.

One would think it should be a cake walk for Romney in Michigan. After all he grew up there, his father was governor of Michigan but with polls this close he could lose. While not a total disaster for Mitt it certainly wouldn't look good.

If and I say IF Romney wins the GOP nomination he will possibly win enough electoral votes to give Obama a run for his money. If it turns out that Santorum wins the party nomination Obama need only spend half of the money he and his PACs collect to win by a landslide. The right wing nut lunatic Fascist wannabes may control the Republican party but the majority of Americans are repulsed by such as them and so Obama should have an easy win. I don't see Newt doing well and, although he says he is in it alll the way to the convention he may just have to drop out before then due to lack of money. Ron Paul the pervasive pain in the keister will continue to be in the race but he won't do better than 10% which is a good thing.

I always pay close attention to the spouse of the candidates. When the camera catches Santorum's wife when she thinks all attention is on her master, am I the only one that sees a very psychologically damaged woman? It seems very tragic to me and speaks volumes about what kind of man Ricky-poo (santorum pun intended!) really is.

Newt's concubine is a blow up doll - so that leaves Mitt. I really think the guy is a slime ball, but he seems to be the only one that has a wife that behaves like an equal and not either an abused, child-bearing servant or an inflatable sex toy.

baldeagle11: If it turns out that Santorum wins the party nomination Obama need only spend half of the money he and his PACs collect to win by a landslide

Agreed. Better yet, if Santorum wins the Republican nomination, Obama should give Santorum half of the money he raises. I'd want Santorum on every TV in the country, all the time.

If GM and Chrysler had failed, it would probably be about 40%. 20% is not good, but 40% is terrible. And we can thank the right wing GOP for obstructing jobs bills that may have HELPED Detroit lower its unemployment numbers or even spice up demand with increased employment.

Alright chester, let's put your assertions to the test:

Why did he order a kill attack on bin Laden and not an apprehension attack? Well, technically he gave the Seal Team the right to kill him if he showed force, and bin Laden DID show force. And if he had been captured, I would bet that it would be extremely difficult to extract him peacefully. In addition, the terrorists could have been incited had we sent bin Laden to prison.

All that personal stuff is not very important.

Why did Obama dispose of bin Laden's body before the DNA tests were finished? That is false. The Navy Seals did an identification check on bin Laden before they boarded the helicopter and probably while on board.

Why did Obama prolong the Iraqi war? I have no answer for that; possibly the Iraqis took a long to become somewhat ready to handle their nation's security burden alone.

Why didn't Obama get along with his Democratic Congress during the first two years of his administration? Technically, Obama got along with his colleagues in Congress, and most of their frustration came from him compromising with the GOP on many issues, like healthcare reform and the stimulus.

Why did none of Obama's 130 initiatives in the Illinois state congress get approved? I don't know much about that, but it could be because of his youth, his inexperience, and maybe some people didn't like those initiatives.

It can go on for a few pages, but Obama's kept campaign promises can go on far longer; including healthcare reform, saving the economy, job creation, ending Iraq war, stopping DADT, etc.

The real and sole reason is that Obama is fully COMPETENT and the GOP are just a bunch of whining babies who are willing to dig up things in Obama's personal life just to score cheap political points while the American people see the GOP for the right-wing 1% serving traitors that they are.

OBAMA BIDEN 2012

DEMOCRATS 2012

GOP EXTINCT 2012

@ KR Here a poll that conflicts your theory. It shows Michigan governor's approval rate is climbing. I have two comments. Take polls with a grain a salt and change takes time.

http://www.mlive.com/politics/index.ssf/2012/01/poll_gov_snyders_approval_rati.html

Heck here is another one that showed the same people who support the dreaded Scott Walker also supported President Obama.

http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5hS59793znaIyY9bOvDomTAQfD2sg?docId=54b13d461ed649e69fbd94d30809f

I rather have Snyder over Granholm any day. With her 8 years of promises and talks with China on creating a business partnership to help each others economy, we really did well didn't we. I'm sure other Michiganers will remember one line from her 2006 State of the State Address ". . .and in 5 years, your going to be blown away". Yes Granholm, we did get blown way as you fled to California.

rasmussenreports.com/public_content/politics/favorables/governors_approval_ratings

tron: you can make China the economic bogeyman all you like, but it doesn't speak too well to your understanding of the US let alone the global economy...(here's a hint: we're not going to lead in the information age by competing with developing countries to make the cheapest junk at the lowest wages...why do you think that while China is doing that they're also working to graduate so many, many more of their best students in technology, engineering and science?) I think Granholm has forgotten more than you'll ever know...especially as we continue to pull ourselves out of the recession.

AP: I was referring to Granholm's desire to do business with China in manufacturing, they are not the bogeyman to me. Even in the information age where people need degrees or training to get those positions, in manufacturing that level of education isn't needed as much. Whats needed is labor. I'm sure you have heard about the auto plants that were built in China and in Mexico over the years (even during the bail-out).

And yes China may be graduating more technical and mechanical engineering students to try to catch up to us in technology, you still need a large labor force to do the grunt work. The engineer designs a new engine and a 100 people build that engine from many parts. Those many parts are created from hundreds/thousands of others machining those parts. That sort of thing employees a lot of people. That helps create the middle class that every politician talks about.

As far as global economy, I think I can understand a little more than you think. I know that US most manufactoring companies have to meet higher standards, regulations, and must comply with defined specifications determined by the government on the parts and products they create. Foreign companies don't have to meet them if they don't want to. And since they don't have to, especially when they import these goods into the US, companies here tend to go overseas to by-pass all the BS.

Example, a company I was at used to machine manifolds for an American engine company where the hours of labor per part was about 1.5hrs. New regulations came in and made the labor hrs go up to 2.5hrs. We had to charge more due to increased labor which in the end the client went else where. A company in Mexico was still able to do the work at the 1.5hrs specs without following the new regulations. Imported the goods at the lower standard and they are used in these engines today. I would think I felt how the global economy works first hand. Companies will find ways to make things cheaper for themselves given the opportunity to do so as any of us would. The problem is that its cheaper to leave the US then to stay here.

Less than the number of GOP officials that it took to destroy America's fiscal and economic health.

Job1, so true. These are the same GOPers who speak of all that nonexistent voter fraud while manipulating the votes within their own party. Like you, I hope the DOJ will be looking into the GOP primary process--it wouldn't be a surprise to me if an investigation found the wealthy backers of Romney and Karl Rove's finger prints all over it.

Iowa's Chair, who since resigned, tried to pull a Romney win but it failed when CNN pointed out the mistake in one precinct the night of the caucus--if CNN had not noticed the inaccuracy, chances are the recount would never have been made public two weeks later, first declared a tie, then a win for Santorum. Nevada is trying to figure out why it has more ballots cast than it had voters casting ballots. Maine ignored votes in a couple counties and won't count the county that was postponed by a Romney supporter because of an impending snow storm yet the girl scouts met that night with no problem. Something smells fishy.

"So, hopefully the Justice Department will be on their toes and keep an eye on the funny business going on with the GOP, in the general election."

That is the best statement today by far!! The DOJ and election fraud? Because everyone knows that Democrats are never involved in election fraud..........................haha

Both sides try to stack the deck. Why do you think Texas is having so much trouble. One side has the power the stack the deck and the other side has the power to veto it.

I find it hysterical that the republicans scream voter fraud all the time and then their very own primary, run and organized by the very same republicans are so screwed up you can't tell what is good and what is not. They have state heads having to resign over the cluster. LOL Wonder if they still think dumber is better? Clearly their own leaders are incapable of getting it right. Or even appearing to get it right.

Paul, FL, seems to me we hear a lot more about voter fraud being committed by republicans than we do democrats. Indiana's GOP Sec of State was just found guilty on 6 of 7 counts of voter fraud. There's a difference between looking for advantages and purposely suppressing the vote of certain segments of a state's population through gerry mandering or unnecessary poll taxes in the form of Voter ID.

One thing about Iowa's redistricting plan is that it is NOT done by the legislature, it is done by a nonpartisan board. It actually works quite well. Too bad the rest of the country doesn't have a similar method. AZ does now but Jan Brewer tried to undo it--thankfully, the AZ courts found in favor of the AZ voters who demanded a nonpartisan board do the work.

Am I the only one that has grown weary of the righties acting like spoiled 5 year old girls? Every single time the Republicans get caught doing something bad, their only reponse, with nothing to back it up, by the way, is "Well...uh...duh...well you know both sides do it...." Anyone with half a brian can look back at the last 10 years and know that it is the Republicans that win the award for the most mortifying scandals.

"I know you are, but what am I? I know you are, but what am I?......." Good lord. We're discussing American politics here and you would think, judging from the righty responses, that we're discussing who put the chewed bubble gum on little Sally's chair...

Oops! Sorry, Sally!! You posted while I was typing!! I should have said "little Betty..."

But really....don't we all feel like we have some nasty righty bubble gum stuck to the seat of our pants...

No Jody, I was stating that both sides do it, I was committing on that people on here think only the GOP does it which is not true.

Yup, heard the SOC of Indy is in trouble and then you have the whole city counsel in NY caught with voters fraud and speaking of Indy there's voters fraud to get Obama on the ballet there.

My point is that both sides do it and when they get caught they should be barred from voting forever.

Technically, the 2000 election could have gone either way. Florida could have gone to Gore by perhaps 200 votes, or to Bush for about 250. It was a close election. I think that we should have had the recount. I mean, who knows who could have won??? For all we know Gore could have won, total debt to GDP would be at about 30%, economy could have not tanked (or at least we'd have more money to spend), lower deficit, and better growth. If only we could know for sure....

I disagree that Romney's campaign has demonstrated much you could call being politically astute. Why do you think so? Because they've launched effective flurries of negative ads? Remember the campaign's initial forays into negative advertising weren't all that great. It's only when his PAC started coordinating their message to match the derogatory remarks being made by party establishment figures did they get that on track.

Beyond that, it's been run as a safe, defensive campaign. Kind of a "we got the money, and we started this thing five years ago, so if we don't make mistakes we ought to get to the finish line" approach to the nomination.

John, NY, I don't think Romney's as politically astute but his negative attacks on Gingrich in both Iowa and Florida did not serve him well. It is likely that the Romney campaign realizes it cannotbe as vicious going after Santorum without making Santorum even stronger and angering the far right base of the GOP which he needs in the so-called Bible Belt. I also think the Santorum surge has caught Romney's campaign off guard, they had Gingrich ads ready but not anti-Santorum ones. Now they're trying to catch up.

I think it is more that Romney and Gingrich really really hate each other at this point. It has become personal between them and Romney has enough money to attack more than one opponent at a time.

Yes, numbers wise it would be probably be better for Romney to try to break Santorum down and raise Gingrich up so that he steals conservative votes from Santorum. But he isn't going to do that because right now it is a miracle that these two men can stand on the same stage without knifing each other.

Citizens United is kicking Romney's arse. If the super pacs wern't in the picture Gingrich and Santorum would be gone already. I find that amusing as well. careful what you wish for, you just might get it.

Auntie----what a time for Mitt to not flip flop and instead be consistent on a point.

The thing about Santorum's huge loss to Casey in 2006 is that Santorum got his start in the House years earlier by accusing a good man of being absentee for having a house in the DC area. And then that is what Santorum did when he was elected.

Wow, treason, such a powerful word, do you know what it means?

Paul, you can look it up in any dictionary. Why let someone else explain it for you?

But anyone who tries to undermine the office of President of the United States is certainly not looking out for the best interest of Americans.

How is he underminding the office? I know what it means kingofmyhill. Because if someone doesn't like a persons policies, it's treason? Really? Maybe in your world it is. I hate Obama's policies to the T, I like the man, but not his policies, so you think I should be tried from treason?

Paul, every person who signs Grover's Pledge is signing away the Oath they take to uphold the Constitution because that pledge eliminates one of the components of the Constitution, the power to raise taxes when necessary. It's unconstitutional. Requiring GOP candidates to sign a Pledge to him or else kiss the campaign money good bye and Grover threatening any candidate who doesn't with a primary challenge--that's bribery. BTW, I would say the same thing about Grover Norquist if he was a democrat. It isn't the party affiliation that is the problem, it is the absurdity of one man and his puppet string pullers exerting such power over government legislators regardless of party.

Paul, I seem to recall that not long ago if someone dared breathe a word of dissent toward Dubya they were called unpatriotic, traitors, anti-American and all sorts of pajoritives. With free speech Mr. Norquist is entitled (I know you don't like that word) to his opinion and so is kingofmyhill and others.

I'm still waiting for Sean Hannity to extradite himself. How many times did that little baby screach on Fox that anyone criticizing an American president during a time of war should be tried for treason?? I'm sure you agree with Sean, don't you, Paul?

Anyone who would put a pledge to Norquist above their oath of office should be investigated...but let us not forget that Boehner couldn't even get all of his people present to take their oath of office...but we all know that Boehner considers boozing it up at a DC party infinitely more important than anything they could do in the House of Representatives.

Why are you defending these people, Paul?

Rick Santorum = Not Obama

His rain forest pal was none other than Iowa's GOP Senator Charles Grassley who strongly supported a rain forest in Iowa. Talk about pork-barrel spending, that would have ranked right up there with the bridge to no where in Alaska.

Jody,

Rain forest in Iowa??? Did it get planted?

Where is it? Grassley has taken the motto," If you build it they will come " to a whole new level.LOL

Road warrior is right:

Rick Santorum << Obama

The rain forest was suppose to be built in Cedar Rapids, Iowa as a tourist attraction. It was eventually killed by tree huggers arguing that it would teach children that it is ok to destroy natural resources because we can recreate them indoors.

It was basically to be a giant green house. In the middle of the most polluted city in Iowa. If you ever have a chance to visit Cedar Rapids, Iowa bring a clothes pin to plug up your nose. It is fondly referred to as the city of 5 smells. A take on its theme of the city of 5 seasons. Apparently, the 5th season is odor. Yes, I work in Cedar Rapids but I'll never live here.

It was also killed by the outrageous cost not just "tree hugger" objections. When I first moved back to Iowa from San Diego, that was the big topic here. I remember thinking that had to be the dumbest idea I'd heard in awhile. It's funny how "ear marks" and "pork barrel" spending are evil except to those who might receive it. The Iowa Rain Forest was a taxpayer boondoggle of magnificent proportion and yes, Northstar, Grassley believed that if we built it, they would come--never mind the price. Probably would have taken a generation for it to turn a profit, not to mention the heating bill in winter.

Umm....road warrior...

Charles Manson = Not Obama

What's your point????

USHonor,

Thanks for that update about Santorum.

WOW Honor, did you write that all by yourself or did you copy and paste that?

Actually, in the world of charities only 50% of the money needs to reach the intended recipients for it to be considered a good charity and less than 10% for it to be considered a bad charity.

That is why I don't believe in any charity that I can't roll up my sleeves and actively participate in.

Most of the money given to charities go to paying salaries of the volunteers that run the charities, for lobbying the government and running advertisements encouraging people to donate more money. Any charity where the people in charge pull down 7 figure salaries is not a charity in my opinion.

I also don't believe that giving money to the church that you actively participate in is charity either. Whether you believe that you are buying your salvation or getting a nicer church to sit in on Sunday you clearly think that you are getting something out of the deal.

Road Warrior,I hate to break the news to you, but you are going to be known as Road Kill,along with the Rep/TP. The writing is on the wall.

Gee, I thought Road Warrior might be making fun of Romney's absurd ad lib there..."severe" conservative?? That was a head scratcher that will be laughed at for some time to come...

I'd vote for Gingrich before Romney and I'd vote Romney before Santorum.

But I still want to see Romney lose in hopes of getting a brokered convention where a real candidate might get drafted.

.

You want to get rip of the only person who wants to help you. Now that is voting against your own interest. Question for you: If you don't make $1M in dividend or interest income do you think you'll be useful to Flopomney?

@backfire

I can see the bigotry and hate oozing out your eyes, ears and mouth.

What policies have President Obama put in place that the congress did not agree with affect you?

Backfire: loosen that tin foil hat a bit, would ya? The 'plot' against Catholics??? LOL...Are you forgetting that 98% of Catholic women say they support contraceptives and don't listen to their own church on that issue?? Allowing those who work FOR institutions (and exempting all churches), who may not even be Catholic, to obtain birth control from a third party insurer isn't a war, it's not even a skirmish...(and it sure as heck isn't an election issue). Wrong about the polls as well...The only question is by how big a margin Obama wins. (the polls show a landslide against Santorum and Gingrich...at this point he's ten points ahead of Romney nationally.) You keep up that war against women, against Hispanics, against the poor, against science, against progress, against reason itself and your side is going to be WISHING for the margin of loss of McCain/Palin.

Backfire-I'm a Catholic guy, and I favor contraception. What government has the right to tell me that I cannot practice safe sex??? That sounds a lot like a theocracy/dictatorship. Healthcare requirement?? Not so much. And Romney is a hypocrite. He claims to support the middle class yet supports a plan to PRIVATIZE Medicare, cut social services, and CUT taxes on the wealthy while INCREASING taxes on lower-income Americans. Where's the class warfare argument for that??? So it's okay to scream class warfare when it's "applied" the rich but not when it's thrown at the 99%???? And Romney will raise deficits by starting another war with Iran and boosting defense spending. We already have the most powerful military in the world. China won't even come close to us in logistics and tech for at least another few years. By then our economy will have recovered and our deficits would be low enough for us to focus more on defense. NO MORE WARS. NO MORE RIGHT-WING CLASS WARFARE.

OBAMA BIDEN 2012

JC Breeze--I'd vote for Data before I ever would vote for Romney. At least Data wanted to be human--Romney doesn't seem to want to be....

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

LMAO!

But Mormons baptize dead jews.

The guy that keeps religion outta politics?? There are NO Republican candidates who do that.

Jack Knowlton

Well put.

I can appreciate what you mean. I do agree. I'm not crazy about Recked Sanctimonius but the guy just seems more real than Rip-off Romney. I have lawn ornaments that are more animated than Rip-off! If he has a severely conservative soul, he must be keeping it in the Cayman's in a vault!

Hmmm...michelle...is your neighbor's mother named joanna smith 1??? Not everyone is willing to regurgitate Norquist/Rove propaganda on Newsvine....not even for $74 an hour.

All business is a gamble. Obama gambled correctly with Chrysler and GM and wrong with Solyndra. He'll be judged on both decisions come November. Romney should realize this and be careful when he's trying to bash Obama over Solyndra because it makes him vulnerable to the Detroit decision.

I believe that Romney is someone who knows numbers. He is a very successful person in business and that is what Obama will NEVER achieve. Romney's experience is what our country needs to spend wisely and invest in what we really need: jobs, border protection instead of stupid investment like helping those traitors to freedom and humanity (Brotherhood of Islam) in Egypt and other stupid decisions he makes daily. He doesn't know what he's doing and I am glad Romney is running for President. That frikin clown has to leave office, I bet I can do a better job than him.

Jan: i think it's really absurd to equate running a successful takeover firm like Bain with running the government of the United States..Romney knows "numbers" alright...the "numbers" of profit...not of jobs.(if you want to tout Romney's record in Massachusetts...you're going to have a hard time...basically NO net jobs created after all his huffing and puffing.) Not that Romney is ever going to get the chance to actually run this country, but why on earth would we throw away yet more dollars to those border fences and security (guess you missed those HUGE increases compared to the Bush years)--when net immigration (illegal) has actually plummeted?? And why would we insist only WE have control over Egypt (not the Egyptians?)..as though it were OUR Arab Spring to direct and control? What possible foreign policy experience does Romney have that makes you think he's remotely qualified to run the country? (oh yeah, besides prostheletizing his faith in France?) I believe your words were 'frinkin clown'..? Got that right...