Mr. McConnell:

A little bit of overdue Clinton level taxation for the very wealthy, does not constitute the sum total of GOP's obligations to the people of this country.

Only 6% of America knows that the deficit has been shrinking under President Obama. The deficit has fallen by half as a share of GDP.

The 'spending problem' is just ideologically-motivated misinformation on your part. Try telling the truth. And then do some effing job creation. Fix our infrastructure, for starters.

Voters in the state of Maine already legalized gay marriage, we are several steps ahead of you, "prominent Republicans."

Voted you up Backhouse!

McConnell talking about 'the American People' on everything but JOBS!

With you, Chilled.

Equal rights under the law is coming, can't stop it and long over due. With the GOPers its either obsessive bedroom practices, money, and social engineering. The snoops will no longer be able to dictate whom one can love--the point will be moot.

Let all Americans enjoy the civil rights that the baggers, thumpers et al enjoy--cannot deny those rights because.....? We are a secular society not a Christian/Sharia run country and its going to stay that way.

Amy I don't get it.

So, don't encourage them?

Congratulations to your state and it's wonderful, amazing voters, but what is your point in seeming to criticize this truly positive change in the opposition to marriage equality?

Backhouse

Mr. McConnell:

Only 6% of America knows that the deficit has been shrinking under President Obama. The deficit has fallen by half as a share of GDP.

Backhouse,

You took the words out of my mouth.

Deficit is shrinking at its fastest rate since WW2

According to the latest projections from the Congressional Budget Office, over the last few years, $4.5 trillion in deficits have been reduced. In August 2010, CBO’s “alternative fiscal scenario” projected a deficit in 2020 of 7.8 percent of GDP. Now it projects that deficit will be 4.7 percent of GDP.

Here is a chart of the deficit as a percent of GDP: (Data sources below)

http://caf.blob.core.windows.net/blogourfuture/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Def_As_Pct_GDP_Chart.jpg

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

Anyhow, how would McConnell know? His only job was to make President Obama a one-term president. Now McConnell is working on our President's legacy. He'll fail at that too.

No. The move to Clinton level taxation for over $450K, is all i referenced here.

And what i support.

You are extrapolating for your own reasons.

A crock of @!$%# analysis.

2010 is three years ago and much of that decrease is due to the ineffectual Obama Stimulus plan slowing down to an end.

I really don't understand why these meetings haven't been happening non-stop the last 2 months. Why does DC have to wait until the last day to try and make decisions? (or after the last day in this case)

Backhouse

While I am totally with you on fixing the infrastructure, there needs to be more oversight. Last year my parents drove their motorhome through Illinois north to south. There was road construction the entire way from the last spending. All of the contracts went to one company. That company started all the projects, left half of them unmanned as they went to work on others. Every few days they would switch which one they were working on and then move to the next.

They did not have to actually hire anyone.

In MN a 30 mile stretch of freeway was redone in concrete. They had three machines out there with one man a piece that poured the entire thing. Years ago it would have taken a few hundred.

This is just two examples of a false idea that spending money on infrastructure will actually create jobs. The infrastructure is important, but creating jobs may not be a result.

John lotsanumbers:

No free ride for your BS. You wrote:

"In MN a 30 mile stretch of freeway was redone in concrete. They had three machines out there with one man a piece that poured the entire thing. Years ago it would have taken a few hundred."

No one prepared the sub-grade? No one mixed the concrete? No one delivered the concrete to the machines? No flag men? No grade-checkers? No concrete finishers? What you have written is just ridiculous. Infrastructure repair will create hundreds of thousands of jobs.

John, the spending on infrastructure creates jobs because of the infrastructure being functional and in place, not because of the temporary repair jobs. New or improved infrastructure stimulates business growth.

If there are no roads/utilities/communication infrastructure, there are no factories, no small businesses, no economic growth and development. No economic growth = no jobs.

Yes, there were support staff. My comment was about the manpower to actually pour it. And no, there were no finishers. The three men rode the machines. One screeded, one brushed, and one sprayed sealer. When they tore it up, they used a machine that broke it up, crushed it, and graded in one pass. It really pissed me off considering our economy and that I am in the business.

My comment was that it may not create as many jobs as people think.

And Mathew if businesses want to do business, they will regardless of infrastructure. Good infrastructure just makes them more profitable.

Backhouse & Bev: I am one of the 94% who did not know that the deficit was falling until I watched R. Maddow last night. Thanks to her and you for those post.

It's clear that everything Obama is doing is working...won't be long till the republican party is just a bad memory(dinosaur) from the past.....

John-2032532

Won't this meeting interfere with Obama's daily campaign rally somewhere in front of hard hats, single mom teachers and gunshot victims?

Backhouse, since you want Clinton level taxation, I assume you also want Clinton level federal spending.

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

Never thought I'd say it, but I'd take a Speaker Gingrich that at least knew how to slap his folks into voting, let alone passing some legislation that was agreed to by a Democrat President.

Who knows John, maybe the majority of House GOP members can join the President since it seems they are sitting in their offices with respective thumbs up their arses in frustration that everything is tied up with their 'leadership' teams.

Backhouse, since you want Clinton level taxation, I assume you also want Clinton level federal spending.

Per capita? Sure.

Amy B. Portland, ME

Voters in the state of Maine already legalized gay marriage, we are several steps ahead of you, "prominent Republicans."

Would you prefer that they take their support back because it's too little too late?

I thought the goal was that we all wanted to move forward?

I'm not even sure why I bother.

Voters in the state of Maine already legalized gay marriage, we are several steps ahead of you, "prominent Republicans."

Dangerfield, I don't mean to rain on your parade, it's just that people at the grassroots level worked really, really hard to win the marriage equality vote in Maine in 2012, so I couldn't resist making fun of the Republicans who have just come out in support of it now. I forgot, the rest of the country hasn't embraced marriage equality as we have. My bad.

The aide added that Republicans are likely to filibuster that measure. It has little chance of passing through both chambers.

And what is new here? A poll comes out telling the GOP that 3:1, American's blame the GOP for partisanship politics, and what do they do? Double down on stupid.

Oh, and interesting news that Alaska has decided to secede from the Union, by passing laws that they are exempt from Federal law.

As usual our President is leading from behind. Friday the horses will already be out of the barn.

David Walker Thank You for listing just a few of the people needed on a project of that size, the list goes on, labors ,inspecters, who put all those traffic cones out, who cleaned up what the machines can't get. Nuf said.

P.S. teck has made const. easyer but it is still laber intensive.

"... the President ... ought to at least pretend to try." A White House official said that the Senate is voting Thursday on its plan to turn off the sequester ... Republicans are likely to filibuster that measure. It has little chance of passing through both chambers."

The only thing Republicans do is pick fights with the President.

Republicans don't do anything for the benefit of this Country or the American People, and obviously we can forget about Republicans' broken promise of JOBS JOBS JOBS (now there was a "campaign slogan" for you that worked for them, but not for us).

If Republicans ever get more power, which I hope they never do, they will break their necks to help the rich with more money through government subsidies, and more tax loopholes.

Republicans will stick the rest of us will the bill for their Lie Called the War in Iraq and everything else.

My comment was that it may not create as many jobs as people think.

How many jobs do people think it will create?

And Mathew if businesses want to do business, they will regardless of infrastructure. Good infrastructure just makes them more profitable.

And if a business is not profitable, it won't exist. That is kind of the whole point. An enhanced infrastructure creates efficiencies in the economy and makes businesses possible that could not otherwise exist. This increases the tax base, and helps reduce the deficit. Also grows the economy, helps employ people and contributes to the general prosperity of the nation.

But no...we can't do that..That would be socialism. Or Marism. Or maybe it will help al-Qaeda. But we definitely can't do that. How is possible to get a rational debate going when the Republican side doesn't even understand the difference between spending and investment?

One might also ask why the congress took a 2 week vacation before the sequester was resolved. We are surrounded by hypocrites.

"But one thing Americans simply will not accept is another tax increase to replace spending reductions we already agreed to." - McConnell

That's is pure and total BS Americans overwhelmingly support tax increases on the wealthy, the republican party is still confused over what they will accept and what the electorate will accept, that is why they got beat badly in the last elections and continue to get their heads handed to them politically. They have the lowest approval ratings ever recorded, the party as a whole is deep in negative numbers, and they still delude themselves and pretend to speak for the electorate. If they knew or cared about what the American people want they would have not lost so badly in the elections. They have had plenty of chances and invitations to meet with the WH and work things out with the democrats in Congress they are only meeting now because they are feeling extreme political heat from outside and even inside their party, the president has done a nice job of taking the case to the American people and hanging this around their political necks as well should. I'll bet a ham sandwich they take a tax increase, because they have left themselves no room or time to actually work out negotiations they will capitulate or take a huge political beating, then they will blame the president for not giving them what they falsely and ridiculously claim the American electorate wants. I think it is pretty funny that this is at least the third time in recent months that republicans shot themselves in both feet before they hobbled into negotiations.

john...I believe that most of the funding for roads in Il came from the state not from the Feds. I could be wrong worth checking. Heard their taxes are high also. You do raise a valid point regarding how each project s done. I agree that any contractor should be required to complete a project before moving to the next one. I believe Chicago imposes an incentive for such projects that if finished ahead of time they pay extra. I understand that it's proved very successful.

I also heard that POTUS urged state governors to push congressional members to agree on a plan avoiding the Sequester cuts. Since U.S. House planned to be off last two weeks Boehner has a whole lot more to explain. Why didn't he keep the U.S. House of Rep. around rather than send everyone home. He's in no position to point any fingers. Rep. Pelosi sent a letter asking him to retain the members to work on some form of agreement. I understand she never received a response.

Backhouse...you info was spot on.

Lawrence O'Donnell show was hosted by Ezra Klein day before. He ran a poll that asked specifically what programs Americans wanted spending cuts applied to. As you might guess those polled don't want programs cut benefitting them. The conclusion is that Americans really do need and want government for a host of reasons. It's relative and that's the sticking point especially for the GOP. If the Sequester takes effect the GOP stands to bear the wrath of voters not Dems.

“When President Obama makes his first official trip to Israel in three weeks, he should expect both a welcome and a warning,” USA Today writes of an interview with the Israeli ambassador to the U.S. "We're delighted that he's coming now," Michael Oren said, adding, "Keep in mind that President Bush didn't come until the last six months of his second term," the ambassador said. "President Reagan didn't come at all."

===========

Off topic from an earlier thread, but I thought the comments coming from the Ambassador were interesting.

Perhaps Gov. Romney did not see this memo as it was stuck under those binders full of women.

Byron Raum,

You took the words right out of my mouth. The money was in abundance for the federal spending or any spending for that matter.

The beginning of the end to the Obama propaganda and his BS. The GOP is FED up with this failed and incompetent president.

Choosing to release the illegal immigrants, resulting from the sequester, is certainly proof of failed leadership.

The lot of them will be sure to be smiling for the photo op. Talking about good progress being made and feeling encouraged by the talks. Then one hour later they will pontificate from their respective podiums demonizing the other side and throwing bloody red chum to their bases.

I am so over this sequestration fight. Much as in the past another bad choice is taken.

Why am I being attacked? I stated that it was important to redo our infrastructure, bridges are falling apart all around the country.

What I stated was that there needs to be more oversight. In Illinois they could have given the projects to many different companies instead of one. And the one in MN they could have hired hundreds of high priced finishers and laborers that would have dumped that money back into the economy. I did not lie about what I saw, and it was only one example of how if they are going to state that it is creating jobs, then make it create as many as possible.

It was oversight I was commenting on, not the need for infrastructure improvement, and if any of you actually read my posts you would know that.

Backhouse

Mr. McConnell:

A little bit of overdue Clinton level taxation for the very wealthy, does not constitute the sum total of GOP's obligations to the people of this country.

Only 6% of America knows that the deficit has been shrinking under President Obama. The deficit has fallen by half as a share of GDP.

Wow, that's a nice half truth there Backhouse. You want to claim Obama is reducing the deficits at a record pace but you fail to account for the initial increase in the budget deficit under Obama. All you have to do is look at the deficits under Bush to see before beginning to reduce the annual budget defiicits, Obama first massively increased it.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:U.S._Total_Deficits_vs._National_Debt_Increases_2001-2010.png

You can also see the increases in debt that Obama has added annually each year. So, of course Obama's deficit is shrinking if you take 2009.

The 'Sequester' Was A Brilliant Idea And Obama Should Be Proud Of It

Read more: http://www.businessinsider.com/the-sequester-was-a-good-idea-2013-2#ixzz2M7IN90b7

Wait, how can Obama do his daily demagoguing when he's actually meeting with leaders to try to work something out?

Does this clown of a leader not recognize that every time he goes on his blame tour, he makes it that much more difficult to work together?

No wonder our congress is the most divided it's ever been. I think our nation's experiment in putting angry community organizers in the White House has come to an end.

Why am I being attacked? I stated that it was important to redo our infrastructure, bridges are falling apart all around the country.

You are not being attacked. We are just discussing the aspects of the point you raised. It's not personal.

I would disagree. People calling me a liar for the things I have seen that they have not. I swear we have become so polarized that if Dumbs were forced to wear blue hats and the Pugs were forced to wear red we would be in the middle of a second civil war.

Yellowdog-Mark D

The lot of them will be sure to be smiling for the photo op. Talking about good progress being made and feeling encouraged by the talks. Then one hour later they will pontificate from their respective podiums demonizing the other side and throwing bloody red chum to their bases.

I am so over this sequestration fight. Much as in the past another bad choice is taken.

What a mental image. Not the phrase I would have used to describe it, but the feeling is mutual.

I'm not sure I could have pulled the perfect phrase of "throwing bloody red chum to their bases" or anything even close to that figuratively accurate. Now every time I hear the word sequestration I'll be thinking of Jaws.

"Does this clown of a leader not recognize that every time he goes on his blame tour, he makes it that much more difficult to work together?"

Ha really! Then why are they now agreeing to meet, the invitation was extended long ago, the president is doing exactly what he should, they refuse to negotiate, so he takes the case to the electorate, that's is who he represents, not republicans in Congress, the electorate is with him, and they are feeling the heat, that is why they now agree to meet. If the electorate was on their side, they would continue to stonewall, this is at least the third time they have done this, and the nation is fed up with it, if they speak for the nation then why did they lose the oval office, seats in the senate, and if it were not for Gerrymandering and the fact that house reps do not compete in statewide elections they would have lost control of the house as well. Republicans can claim they know what the American people want but if that was so they would not have lost the elections and they would not be polling lower than a head cold. They can continue to "Praise the Lard" - Rush Limbaugh, as he denigrates the electorate for wanting what they want, but they will continue to lose elections if they do not heed the will of the electorate.

LOL......This is funny. Boehner made a complete ass of himself yesterday with his stupid remark, now you have this stupid spokesperson saying:

"If the President is serious about stopping the sequester, why did he schedule a meeting on Tuesday for Friday when the sequester hits at midnight on Thursday?" a Republican aide told NBC. "Either someone needs to buy the White House a calendar, or this is just a - belated - farce. They ought to at least pretend to try."

Between Boehners stupid comment yesterday, and this ^ idiot above, this just about says the republicans won't even attempt at compromise on Friday.

Continue to implode republican party, do us all a favor!!

john-737278

I would disagree. People calling me a liar for the things I have seen that they have not. I swear we have become so polarized

John, over my 64 years of life I have seen many things too, and believe me, this polarization has not just happened, it's more to a forefront now that we have a black President. Please don't make it seem like everything in America was honky-donky before. In reality I have not seen this much racial hatred towards any white President as the amount directed towards this President.

Invisible Hand - I agree, someone should take ownership of this sequester. It is going to go off without a hitch, the government spending will be better because of it.

Whoever owns this will come out smelling like a rose. They will be labelled the ones who can get things done when the going gets tough. The ones who can make tough decisions. The real conservative.

Blame the sequester on me! I want this. Me. Less money in government/politics the better. I brought you this!

john-737278

I would disagree. People calling me a liar for the things I have seen that they have not. I swear we have become so polarized that if Dumbs were forced to wear blue hats and the Pugs were forced to wear red we would be in the middle of a second civil war.

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

You are calling Democrats 'Dumbs' and Republican 'Pugs'...and you think you have nothing to do with why you are allegedly being attacked? Nice.

Allen - Omaha

I hate both sides, just returning the favor. We should all be Americans, it would be nice to see people act like it once and a while.

RepublicansForObama-6186389

GEE - a muthuh fuc king BIRTHER... who'd a thunk it?

john-737278

Allen - Omaha

I hate both sides, just returning the favor. We should all be Americans, it would be nice to see people act like it once and a while.

===========

I hear you Sir...I just don't see how references of 'Dumbs' and 'Pugs' moves your desire in the direction you state you want.

Michelle Obama on Good Morning America, and the advance of the propaganda machine. Michelle deliberately lies to the masses, saying the poor little girl in Chicago was killed with an assault weapon. ABC being a willing partner edited the comments on the net to exclude the assault weapon claim. Michelle should have said, these kids who could look a lot like our children, need to stop killing others in the Democratic destroyed communities. Please keep electing us so your community has no chance at success. Michelle has learned a lot from her pandering husband, lie and the press will cover for you. How sad is it that Obama uses our Military, Police, and Firefighters as props to help against HIS sequestor. Only liberals can think that a TRILLION dollar defict is Progressive. IDIOTS.

I would disagree. People calling me a liar for the things I have seen that they have not.

I do not see you as being called a liar. David Walker did, indeed, point out a number of things that he thought you had missed. That's not being "called a liar." That's having a discussion. Perhaps you thought they were unimportant. Certainly, he disagrees with your emphasis, as did I, which is why I asked the question of you that I did.

I swear we have become so polarized that if Dumbs were forced to wear blue hats and the Pugs were forced to wear red we would be in the middle of a second civil war.

We are not particularly polarized. The Democrats have all sorts of opinions and ideas and we are able to share them in a fairly civil manner. A significant number of Democrats today are ex-Republicans, such as myself, people who left the Republican party during their purity purges.

You will certainly see a lot of vitriol, that comes from today's Republicans who can't stomach the idea of being the dominant group, and responses by today's Democrats who respond in kind because they are really tired of people without any sense of responsibility.

Allen - Omaha

If more people viewed it that way and stated it, which I truly believe the majority is, maybe the far right and far left would be put in their place. Sorry, neither extreme has earned my respect.

kkwilson

The beginning of the end to the Obama propaganda and his BS. The GOP is FED up with this failed and incompetent president.

Choosing to release the illegal immigrants, resulting from the sequester, is certainly proof of failed leadership.

And welcome averagely educated american. You're low-info comment was one of the most regurgitated slants heard before the election. Were you in a coma for the past four months?

Gawd am I sick of people like you. Nothing to add. Just flagrant rhetoric. Go away.

Oh! What's that? Fox doesn't let you post anymore? Why is that?

How do you define "failed leadership"? Would that be the reduction in the deficit? Or the record high Dow Jones? Or the continuous fall in unemployment?

Please.... enlighten us with another zinger of your chock full of facts, stats, links and references.

/sarc

Obama is the type of leader that if he were taking you into battle, he would be right behind you every step of the way. I guess the day the sequester cuts take affect, must be the day Obama gets back from his Presidential Paranoia tour.

Only liberals can think that a TRILLION dollar defict is Progressive. IDIOTS.

A trillion dollar deficit is certainly better than the 1.4 trillion dollar deficit that you geniuses left us with.

It might be hard for you to stomach the idea that the deficit is actually shrinking under Obama, but I don't think anyone really cares what is hard or easy for you. At best, your vitriol just amuses most people; others feel sorry for you.

Closing loopholes in our tax system is the right thing to do FIRST!! Cutting spending has already been done!1.2 trillion has already been cut from social programs, while only 600 billion has been raised in taxes!!!!!!! That is not balanced! That is not fair to the working poor and the already struggling!! The rich in this country got that way because of their use of the services of this country!! We do not need oil subsidies, farm subsidies and corporate welfare!! Cut those first! THEN we can talk cutting other things!! Corporate welfare should go before someones food stamps or medical care!! The problem is, Republicans only care about money, not the American people! They care about cheating in elections. Not the American people! They care about beating Obama still and that is not going to happen. They care about hurting him, more than they care about the American people. They are all a disgrace and need to be recalled, voted out and replaced with people who know how to compromise and are not so blinded by greed!!

How do you define "failed leadership"?

Fewer enemies created in the rest of the world. It means Obama didn't pound his chest enough to prove America's alpha-maleness. Can't have that.

Backhouse,

You wrote a 1/2 truth, the yearly deficit is shrinking but the overall deficit is still growing at a very large amount, projected at $900 billion this year.

Hey Rick did you notice how paranoid some republican governors are about sequestration, I thought they were supposed to dismiss anything Obama said.

@ john

I spent way too many years in road construction, and you are right. Many people who post here are hell bent on making sure every single thing the president proposes is right and no one else has any good opinions or thoughts. If you do, well you've just seen it firsthand. lol

From the article above:

The aide added that Republicans are likely to filibuster that measure. It has little chance of passing through both chambers.

Duh.

As they filibuster everything for the last 2 years.

There's the proof right there that the Republicans want the American economy to tank just to make a Democrat President look bad.

Leave it to Republicans to make the Poor and Middle class suffer more.

Salud

Backhouse, your a lying con man, declining deficit. LOL Yeah and I've got some land west of Miami for sale. when Obama took office it was 10.7 trillion deficit, 50 months later it's 16.8 trillion, only an idiot would call that a "declining" deficit. Take your con game and stick it. sell stupidity elsewhere, there is quite enough of it on here already. and stop with the Maddow MSNBC logic because it's all smoke and mirrors, numbers don't lie people like you do.

Jerry, right on, he's a liar of huge proportions, period.

Obama is the type of leader that if he were taking you into battle, he would be right behind you every step of the way. I

Wow Rick, you are really scraping the bottom of the barrel. Name one general, admiral, in the last 100 years that 'led the charge'. And you wonder why you and your party are labeled the party of stupid. Do you think before you post, or do you just pick your nose, wipe it on the key board, and start typing?

TO: Forrest Grump 2.0 who wrote:

["But one thing Americans simply will not accept is another tax increase to replace spending reductions we already agreed to." - McConnell]

That's is pure and total BS Americans overwhelmingly support tax increases on the wealthy, the republican party is still confused over what they will accept and what the electorate will accept, that is why they got beat badly in the last elections and continue to get their heads handed to them politically.

What McConnell should have said is "One thing Republicans WON'T do is listen to the American People."

Republicans know they don't work for the American People, because if they did they would have kept their JOBS JOBS JOBS commitment they made in order to sucker people into voting for them.

Republicans' only concern is for the Top 1% wealthiest Americans, which is why Republicans could care less about kicking us around.

Both parties already know this thing is going to bottom out.

The only thing they're comig together to meet about now is how to save their own bank accounts

Let the sequester happen. We can flip a coin to see if we reduce increased spending for starving kids or disabled kids.

How do you define "failed leadership"?

I can define "failed leadership" in 5 words: John Boehner and Mitch McConnell.

Reagan was able to lead with a split congress.

Mr. Gump, excellent points. The percentage of Americans, including republicans, who agree to getting rid of tax loopholes and the like is in the 60-something percentile. It's that damn pledge to Grover that these silly men signed and fear of facing the idiotic tea party nominees in primaries that's keeping the "grand bargain" from being struck.

No one really "wants" to pay more taxes, but the decade of not paying enough in taxes with two unfunded, off the books wars going on at the same time was catastrophic to our economy - and the majority - I'll repeat that - the majority of the country knows this all to well.

Sure we need to cut, cut lots of things and the President has even mentioned reducing COLA as far as entitlements, but these across the board cuts would be a tragedy for the economy.

DickCranium He was able to BECAUSE Democrats were willing to work with him!!! That is the difference! This batch of Republicans WON'T work with Obama!! They give him ultimatums!! They give him NO on everything! EVEN WHEN IT'S THEIR OWN IDEA!! Democrats have NEVER done that to ANY president!! THAT is the difference!! He did not have a party of NO! See the difference? Probably not. You are too dedicated to the losing side of the argument!

I wonder if you have to constantly keep wiping your spittle off your monitor?

American Girl-724855

How do you define "failed leadership"?

I can define "failed leadership" in 5 words: John Boehner and Mitch McConnell.

The president has blamed Republicans for refusing a compromise that would include the closure of tax loopholes, while the GOP has blamed Senate Democrats for failing to propose a legislative fix.

Blame to other for his lack of compromise is the Obama expertise. Instead to do political campaign he should do what he already promises and show leadership, stopping sequestration even if he don't get what he wants, he promises to the American voters. More over if sequestration was his idea.

"Reagan was able to lead with a split congress."

Reagen was president as taxes were raised numerous times, debt was allowed to soar, and 11 million illegals were granted amnesty, he would be drummed out of the republican party of today.

Besides it has nothing to do with his ability to lead and everything to do with the split Congress being able to negotiate and compromise.

Ron-1861300

I really don't understand why these meetings haven't been happening non-stop the last 2 months. Why does DC have to wait until the last day to try and make decisions? (or after the last day in this case)

the last meeting that the Republicans attended "early" was on 1/20/2009: before giving Obama at least 24hrs to be POTUS, they decided to meet the day of the Inauguration and come up with a strategy on how to obstruct obstruct obstruct....

Forrest Grump 2.0

Reagen was president as taxes were raised numerous times, debt was allowed to soar, and 11 million illegals were granted amnesty,

and the debt ceiling was raised how many times by Reagan...???? SEVENTEEN or EIGHTEEN!

DickCranium

Reagan was able to lead with a split congress

Tip O'Neill and the Democrat Congress didn't set a world record for filibustering more times than all the previous congress' combine like John Boehner's DO NOTHING Congress.

There also wasn't Faux sNewzzzzz and the nationwide RW noise machine spreading propaganda and lies like there is today.

My God, that was over 25 years ago.

Apples and Oranges.

Salud

Scare tactics from Obama. Even the sequester is not in place, this administration order to release from jails, all over the country crilinals illegals alliens with the excuse of of lack of founds , putting them back to the street, just to blame Republicans regardless the safety of the population.

Tomas Grande

Always spreading lies for the low information voters

There also wasn't Faux sNewzzzzz and the nationwide RW noise machine spreading propaganda and lies like there is today.

From Politico

Poll: Fox most trusted name in news

http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0110/32039.html

When "Progressive Liberals" are seriously interested in lowering deficit spending to "zero" (a balanced budget) in a gradual reduction, I'm interested in listening. That's going to mean spending cuts on some unneeded entitlement programs. Harry Reid won't allow the consideration.

"a person can fail many times, but is never a failure until they start to blame others"

are you listening Mr. President?????????

Amazing. Nothing is ever Obama's fault. You people need to take a step back and look at yourselves.

bayllie,

I think everyone here knows I'm not a fan of the current crop of Republicans in DC and I won't defend their actions. But, I also won't give Obama a pass on his actions. Just because the Republicans may have done something bad in 2009 doesn't excuse Obama from doing everything he can to be an effective president. Instead, what I see is a president that does not appear to be able to successfully negotiate a compromise with people that have significantly different world views. In general this means he can't work with Republicans, but I heard enough of the same complaint from plenty of Democrats and Independents to make me think Obama is at least part of the problem.

In particular, Obama has stated he doesn't think developing personal relationships is important to deal making...and I think he's 100% wrong on this critical point. I believe the ability of Reagan and Tip O'Neal to bond outside of deal negotiations was a key point of the legislative successes they both had in the 80's. Similarly, Clinton found areas of agreement with Republicans in the 90's, and in return they compromised on taxes.

WOW.....just......WOW.

Mr. "Drama" Obama is actually going to be in Washington D.C. for a meeting ?

You have to be kidding me.

After all his "on the road again" fearing mongering speeches, is he really going to TRY to be a LEADER ? Nah, just another photo-op since he wants HIS sequestration cuts to occur.

Expect more lies to come out of the oval office and at the White House press room.

My God, that was only yesterday.

Salud

all over the country crilinals illegals alliens with the excuse of of lack of founds , putting them back to the street,

Anyone out there have a Rosetta Stone capable of translating this?

"Poll: Fox most trusted name in news"

Ha, except when it comes to projecting election results! Now that tickles!

3rd Annual TV News Trust Poll

PPP's 3rd annual TV news trust poll (2011 version here, 2010 version here) finds that Fox News tops the list for both the source Americans trust the most and the one they trust the least.

Fox is the most trusted TV news source for 34% of voters, followed by PBS at 17%, CNN at 12%, ABC News at 11%, CBS News at 8%, MSNBC at 5%, and Comedy Central and NBC each at 4%.

Salud

redvirginia

Poll: Fox most trusted name in news

You're a liar.

The link you sent is dated

By ANDY BARR | 1/27/10 7:38 AM EDT

Typical RW psycho. Now take your lies back to Hannity where you can get on your knees and worship his propaganda ass.

Faux sNewzzzzz = Anti-America

Salud

RedDev,

Love the humor. Great post! I'm still laughing.

Tomasito pinochio mentiroso

Just google Most Trusted News, the first name that come up is FOX ; NBC , MSNBC are the last. LOL

Salud

American Girl, the republican party wants to denigrate anybody who speaks of tax increases as a Communist, Socialist, or a Marxist, they constantly throw these terms as insults to no avail. It certainly did not help them politically they lost badly. The simple truth is that average Americans do not feel like communists or any of the other terms republicans use as insults when they ask the wealthy to pay a percentage of tax that is closer to what they pay on their modest income, they only see it as a matter of fairness. Now somebody here can launch into an explanation of capital gains, and earned income and such, but the fact of the matter is that they make millions, and they pay a lower percentage of taxes on their income than most hardworking Americans who earn a comparatively modest living. The whole Communist, Socialist thing is so old, tired, and seems so damn silly to most Americans that it amazes me that the Republicans still think that has some political benefit for them, even in the face of the last election results. Now in the face of the election results if you want a little equity in regards to taxes, you are now labeled a low information voter because they do not enjoy being hosed, and always picking up tab and taking the cuts for what republicans call fiscal responsibility. Problem for republicans is that the electorate is done with that nonsense, too bad for them they are not politically astute enough to give it up.

Told you, like every other time over the past four years, the drama of a stare down and last minute stop gap measure is nothing more than insecure people seeking attention and camera time. Both parties knew the sequester cuts would be damaging to both parties, and like the 'fiscal cliff' it wasn't going to happen. This is how it works when the same people who issue the ultimatums are empowered to cancel them. I used the same strategy on my children when they ignored my orders, works every time.

It is time to throw out the 'good ole boys and girls' game players and elect some adults to Congress who will earn their pay and take care of the people's business in a timely fashion.

I heard the meeting has been cancelled. Obama forgot it was his golfing day.

Can't believe that Obama is actually going to show up and work - where does he find the time - what with all the Hawaii vacations, golf games, campaigning (oh wait he already won!) still campaigning, photo ops, hobnobbing with Hollywood, and his usual round of bullying, scaring and lying to the American people.

Lest we make this about the President - as he already does that for himself - this is about the American people. You - I - regardless of our party preference.

I hope someday the Liberals will step into the light and realize what is really going on.

You got your beloved president - good for you....but honestly - payday will come. And I am afraid with a huge price. Unfortunately - the rest of us will be paying for your choice.

If you want to solve the debt crisis, sequestration - cancel Obamacare. Problem solved.

Red,

Just google Most Trusted News, the first name that come up is FOX ; NBC , MSNBC are the last

According to "Newsmax" and "Andy Barr". Newsmax is a Right Wing Conservative news outlet, Andy Barr ummm, public right wing conservative. So according to these two it some how must be True, LMAO!! So easily blind,

BTW, just because you Google something does not make it "Absolute FACT". Do you realize how many lies are tell on the internet through GOOGLE..Of course you don't because if you did you wouldnt make such a dumbass comment. Fox news most trusted, Laughable!!

the teaparty lost seats in the last election .. 20% of the republican held seats were only kept because of gerrymandering ..and in those districts the republicans won by a narrow margin .. the people of America elected Barack Hussain Obama to lead the country .. the GOP message was rejected .. It is time for Boehner and his ilk to come to the table with out the my way or nothing attitude

timewonttell,

Isn't Obama taking the my way or the nothing attitude also? The Republicans gave on tax increases, and the presidents response is to demand more tax increases and more government spending. Where are the spending controls from the Democrats?

Jason - I prefer to here the truth - not more cover-ups - we have had enough of those (most transparent presidency - Laughable!!)

Timewonttell - kind of like the pot calling the kettle black - Obama's attitude - if they don't like what I say or do what I tell them to - then I will issue an executive order....really!!

He works for US - not the other way around...

Why haven't Boehner, Cantor and McConnell given Obama a no-limit credit card like they did Bush ? Have they repented for their spendthrift ways or is it just a front ? Congressional republicans would not know fiscal responsibility if it slapped them in the face.............

The only reason republicans are opposing Obama is because he is trying to help someone other than the rich obtain a slice of the American dream......AND THAT IS THE WHOLE TRUTH, AND NOTHING BUT THE TRUTH, SO HELP ME GOD !!!!!!!!!!!!

If our "leaders" cannot reduce spending by the minuscule amount they agreed to they cannot manipulate their zippers. This is a joke and shame on everyone who is making this a "crisis".

But Beverly of Chicago, Obama's deficit spending reduction is just a wet dream of yours. Obama's deficit spending is on track, for the next four years, to be one trillion plus.At least. Even if he were to reduce deficit spending, that will have zero effect on reducing the national debt. It is the debt that needs to be reduced in order to climb out of this gigantic hole the liberals are digging. The only way to reduce the debt is to get this nation off the unemployment rolls and off of welfare. People need to have jobs to pay taxes in order to bring this debt down. Job creation doesn't have anything to do with the government. The government needs to get out of the way of the private sector, in order to create employment opportunities. Get off your partisan rants, and see things as they are.

moshuluu, I have never seen such hatred against any competent president either. It's not a black-white issue. I was hoping Obama would succeed. Alas, he didn't. It's the minorities who played the race card - he got over 95% of the African American vote, as well as an absurd majority among Latinos, who were blinded by his charm, rhetoric, and minority status. Race is the only reason he won. And his incompetence is the reason that we are now all losing. It will just take a while for the chickens to come home to roost, and make people realize how badly they were duped by his charm and rhetoric.

backhouse how about some creditable proof and something that is not from another blog.

Beverly same goes for your link it is from another blog and the graph is just a graph that anyone can make. Creditable proof please.

So just who are the leaders of Congress going to meet with? Hopefully not Oblama, because one thing that is for sure is he is no leader.

Why hjack Obama must a good leader he is constantly leading republicans right to where they vow they will never go.

Ron-1861300

Just because the Republicans may have done something bad in 2009

"something bad in 2009" as in SINGULAR?? so you are saying that this one meeting was IT and ever since then, the Republicans have been doing everything to work with Obama????

That's what you are saying?

wow - that's a good one.

Ellis Baumgarner

Why haven't Boehner, Cantor and McConnell given Obama a no-limit credit card like they did Bush ?

Because Obama is not a Republican

SSGirl-7283972

Can't believe that Obama is actually going to show up and work - where does he find the time - what with all the Hawaii vacations, golf games, campaigning (oh wait he already won!) still campaigning, photo ops, hobnobbing with Hollywood, and his usual round of bullying, scaring and lying to the American people.

you have the same standard for Bush who was on vaca over 1000 days (3.5 years?), started 2 wars (1 based on lies, manipulation, and misinformation), ignored any and all intel prior to 9/11 that may have prevented 3000 Americans from dying, spent all the money, borrowed more, and doubled the unemployment, and caused the financial meltdown of 2008?

bayllie

You seem to be talking to yourself so I felt obligated. Since when does the government not have a no-limit credit card? Our debt has gone up what? 7-10 trillion in the last decade? Do you remember when the word "trillion" was one of the least used words in the English language?

Forgive me, but what is the gain in trashing one administration when the next does the same? Do you really see a difference in your day to day life depending on who is "ruling"? Doesn't that make them all responsible? How is a penny valued any differently whether it is heads or tails? One side is a donkey and the other an elephant. It is still being made worthless.

TO: DickCranium who wrote:

"Reagan was able to lead with a split congress."

Was he able to lead with an opposition party whose only purpose was to make Reagan a "one term president"?

No.

Was he able to lead with a congress being run by the Teabaggers?

No.

TO: hjack who wrote:

"So just who are the leaders of Congress going to meet with? Hopefully not Oblama, because one thing that is for sure is he is no leader."

I wouldn't call a couple of knuckleheads running a wacko farm "leaders", namely Boehner & McConnell.

Boehner is gonna get jap-slapped again and Eric Cantor's size 9s up Boehner's posterior if Boehner tries to make any deals with President Obama.

Republicans are just out for a free White House lunch.

John. In an effort to help you with you legitimacy, I would like to see your documented, verified debt numbers from 2000 to today. To be honest, you will have to include BushII's war supplemental that was kept off of the books. On that note, both BushII and Cheney promised the American people that the war in Iraq was to be paid for, in full, by Iraqi oil revenues. Please include, among your debt numbers, how that resolution was pursued and why it is, now, that the American people are paying for the war that we were promised we wouldn't have to pay for. This promise was made by Republicans and I feel it is very important for all Americans to see how diligently Mr. Boehner and Mr. McConnell have pursued keeping the promise made by their Republican administration.

I understand that you feel that one party is just the lesser of two evils. If you really look at the honest numbers, it may become clear to you which party is the worst of the two evils. If we can not trust the Republicans for keeping the financial promise they made to the American people in 2003, how on earth can we trust them with any financial promises now?

In regards to your first post, it came across that the only evidence you had of the infrastructure in Illinois is that your parents drove across the state. You came up with a lot of information after that and I found myself asking how you knew so much from a brief, second hand account. Perhaps if you would document the sources of your information, people would be more inclined to take your post seriously.

I will be waiting to hear back on your research into the debt numbers and what the Republican leadership has done to keep their past financial promises to the American people. Your honest opinion as to why they should be trusted now should be very interesting.

Shockedanddisgusted

Realistically, I don't really care who did worse in the race to the bottom, they are all corrupt. I think both sides of the never ending argument can provide the supposed proof of what ever. The fact of the matter is that they all have a history of not being responsible with our money. I would hope that we could agree with that. Otherwise the debt clock would not be at 17 trillion, now would it? While I understand that a federal budget is not exactly the same thing as a household budget, how would any reasonable spouse act if theirs went to the casino and spent ten times their annual income over a period of a few years due to lack of control? Sorry, but I blame both equally. None of that helps us correct the path we are on, but understanding it does.

In regards to my first post, my parents drove across Illinois 3 times in a month. All the sights had the same company notice of who was doing the work. They saw slow progression at all sites except that the workers always seemed to be at different ones when they passed. This is coming from a die hard liberal(my father) stating WTF, they could have hired so many people.

As far as the MN part, that was my observation driving to a job I was doing for a client over the course of about three weeks. I guess I should have taken pictures to document the lack of jobs that could have been created but it is too late for that.

Well, John, I hope you have less apathy when you go to the polls.

I'm just not sure you give enough information in regards to how Illinois spent there stimulus money to make any kind of judgement. I can understand the appearance, but driving across the state three times doesn't seem to be much of an audit. Did you research it more?

Did I research it more? That is kind of funny. Wouldn't that be the accountability that I ask that the government has when spending our money? That is what we are paying them for correct? It is not their sole job to hand out money, it is also their job to guarantee its intended purpose. Most forget about that part. And so have they.

While I may as a citizen may report misuse or misintended funds being used, it was ultimately their responsibility to use them correctly in the first place and guarantee that the intended use is fulfilled.

Leaders to meet with Obama on sequester deadline day

Ooooh, Ooooh, Ooooh does this mean Barrack Hussein is going to "focus like a laser",,,on jobs,,,again?

Or will it be the economy?

On Friday?

Woooohoooo!!!!!!

This is only the 279th time isn't it?

Ohhhhhhh, it's the sequester thingy.

The sequester thingy that Bob Woodward exposed that Barrack Hussein, Jack Lew and Rob Nabors created, NOT THE REPUBLICANS!!!!

NOT THE TEA PARTY!!!!

NOT BIG BIRD!!!!!!

Lemme see if I can find it. Oh, here it is.

“Obama personally approved of the plan for Lew and Nabors to propose the sequester to Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid [D-Nev.]. They did so at 2:30 p.m. July 27, 2011, according to interviews with two senior White House aides who were directly involved.”

http://www.politico.com/story/2013/02/bob-woodward-obama-owns-sequestration-87978.html#ixzz2M9fGExCo

THEN!

This morning, on "Morning Joe", Woodward stated:

he's exhibiting a "kind of madness I haven't seen in a long time" for a decision not to deploy an aircraft carrier to the Persian Gulf because of budget concerns.

Read more: http://www.businessinsider.com/bob-woodward-obama-sequester-republicans-2013-2#ixzz2M9gCadeU

Hmmmmmm, imagine that, Barrack Hussein, the most profligate spending Commander-in-Chief in our history worried about the "BUDGET"

BWAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!

YO BARRACK, you have to actually PASS a budget in order to WORRY about a budget!

But of course Barrack Hussein can campaign instead of govern for 4 years, he doesn’t need no stinking budget!

BUT WAIT, IT GETS EVEN BETTER!!!!!!!

Bob Woodward said this evening on CNN that a "very senior person" at the White House warned him in an email that he would "regret doing this," the same day he has continued to slam President Barack Obama over the looming forced cuts known as the sequester.

CNN host Wolf Blitzer said that the network invited a White House official to debate Woodward on-air, but the White House declined.

"I think they're confused," Woodward said of the White House's pushback on his reporting.

Read more: http://www.businessinsider.com/bob-woodward-obama-sequester-white-house-reporting-price-politics-2013-2#ixzz2M9jT5KzT

WOWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW!!!!!!!!!

Sounds like the White House is threatening a reporter.

Threatening the FREE PRESS OUR CONSTITUTION ALLOWS US!

So, now not only is Barrack Hussein moving the goal posts and lying to the American people, HE’S THREATENING THEM!

And you limp-wristed Libbies want gun control. You claim our government would never become a threat to us and our God given Rights, Freedoms and Liberties.

Go drink some more Kool-Aid, your boy-toy Barrack is starting to unravel.

Don’t tell us we didn’t warn you!

FOOLS!!!!!!!!!!

Bob Woodward helped bring down Nixon - Now calling out Obama - for lying to the people

Woodward writes the White House has been deliberately disingenuous about its role in the sequester, and accused Obama of "moving the goal posts" by insisting Republicans agree to new tax revenue as part of any substitute for the sequester. "That was not the deal he made," he says.

Woodward's report has rankled administration officials, particularly since it undermines the narrative the White House has been pushing ahead the March 1 sequester deadline.

The administration does not directly dispute what Woodward's reporting.

"It was said very clearly: 'you will regret doing this,'" Woodward told CNN. "I'm not going to say [who], a very senior person. It makes me very uncomfortable to have the White House telling reporters you're going to regret doing something you believe in."

New Study shows - 45% of recent college graduates - are living at home - with their parents - PATHETIC!

Worst President in US History = Barack Obama

Professor NO CLUE to the rescue

This is very sad and disturbing folks - very sad

john-737278

bayllie

You seem to be talking to yourself so I felt obligated. Since when does the government not have a no-limit credit card?

when POTUS is a Republican like Reagan (debt ceiling raised 17 times?) or GWBush (debt ceiling raised 7 times?)

On top of that, Reagan had deficit 8 out of 8 years in office, Bush1 had deficits 4 out of 4 years in office and Bush2 had deficits 8 out of 8 years in office.

So please spare me the Republican "fiscally responsible" bullsh*t!

If only the president would truly listen to others. I've heard enough Democrats and Independents talk about how Obama lectures instead of listening in meetings to believe the problems are only with the Republicans. (by the way, I'm not a fan of the Republicans either...I think both parties put party over country)

Screw the details of the story, I like the headline and how it separates the leaders from Obama...we all know he's no leader, and no we have the MSM saying it too.

Oh you got it all wrong Obama is a terrific leader he constantly leads republicans where they need to go as opposed to where they want to go. They do not wish to acknowledge his leadership skills, because he has lead them to places they vowed they would never go, ask Grover Norquist if they president is a good leader, he will say no and yet where is Grover, the president lead him right out the door. Ha anybody can lead you where you want to go a great leader leads you to where you need to go and that is exactly what the president has done to republicans.

Forrest....great post. It made me smile because for all their bluster and conniving, the President is far ahead of them in what needs to be done and how to do it. The opposition realize now they are being led by a President who knows what he wants and too late they are realizing this, thus all the calls and posts of being a failed leader when they know they are the ones who are failing. The right is very good at projection and for criticizing from the sidelines, notice how we never hear or read any ideas or alternatives for policy.

This party of the right is still in the car they drove into the ditch five or so years ago except they burnt out the engine trying to go nowhere. They have no idea how to even change a tire. Our new driver is doing a good job.

we all know he's no leader, and no we have the MSM saying it too.

Kind of interesting how "he's no leader." He's had no problem uniting Democrats, who are all races, creeds, religions, sexual preferences and origins. Rich and poor, young and old.

But just because one group hates the fact that he's not One of Them, and would not even follow him if he was Moses trying to lead them into heaven, you declare that "he's no leader."

No. He's a leader. You are not capable of following. That is not his problem. It's yours.

amy -- do you believe that the republicans should support everything the president asks for simply because he asks? do you believe in the idea of philosophical differences or should the majority simply have its way, irrespective of whether the majority is liberal or conservative, irrespective of whether you agree or not?

i have disagreed with much of what this president has done and wants to do. i had hoped he would be defeated but when he won i hoped he would be the president of all the people and not just those that agree with him. at every opportunity he skewers the opposition alienating tens of millions of Americans. it makes it very had to even consider supporting him when he is constantly belittling us.

RWNJs are out in force today - too bad their mealy mouthed comments are dust in the wind...

Gotta love the GOP---they take a 10 day vacation and then complain how the President schedules a meaningless meeting on the sequester when they are the ones who won't compromise.

You're grabbing at straws, MIDDLE. That's one of the GOP/TP problems, they take part of a article or part of a sentence and try to make something they want out of it.

Well that is all it amounts to Gingerbread Mama, republicans claim is not a leader because he will not take them where they want to go, but he has lead their reluctant butts where the electorate wants to go, and that is why he and many democrats were re-elected, they still can't face it, they can only seem to resent it. They through a fit when he takes his case to the public, they claim he is campaigning, he is not campaigning he already won his campaign, I watched a little bit of his speech in Virginia, I did not here any boos from the crowd. Ha if republicans were smart they would stop trying to denigrate the president as a community organizer, and go out and find themselves one half as good as he is, they certainly could use one.

If you're going to quote Taylor Swift on political strategy, you're already culpable of indecent exposure to the public by dropping your uneducated shorts. Somehow you've found a way to make Ted Nugent look like a genius. lol

Republicans do not care about this country!! They only care about hurting Obama! That is it!! That is their number one priority still!! They think they lost this election badly? Wait until the next one!! They are going to lose every where they run. I can't wait to help in that process!! I am an Independent but I could NEVER vote Republican again after this!! They have lost what little respect they once had by sending us, once again, into financial disaster!! The fact is, we grow and prosper under Democratic presidents and we slow down and falter under Republicans. Every state where there is Republican control is at the bottom of everything, from education to roads to health, they are at the bottom!! Oh yeah!! Let's be proud of that!! They want to take away your right to choose, to vote and to live a decent life!! They do not care about anyone but the right wing, Christian extremists and corporate dollars. THAT is what they care about. No you or me! If they did, they would close the loopholes for the rich FIRST!

Theresa, friends don't let friends vote republican.

Amy B.,

Are you a responsible voter? You're a "Progressive Liberal", which in itself is a contradiction in terms.

Republicans care about this country, and so do Democrats. The just have significantly different world views, and therefore, significantly different approaches to solving the countries problems.

Once we start trying to understand how "the other party" thinks and why they hold the positions they hold, we can start making some headway as a country. This doesn't mean we will all agree...but it does increase the odds we can find workable compromises.

On the other hand, if we continue personally demonizing people for having different opinions, it will be very hard to move forward and solve our problems.

Backhouse:

I was glad to see your post, up near the top - I have been trying to say that for a couple weeks now, & I totally agree -

"Only 6% of America knows that the deficit has been shrinking under President Obama. The deficit has fallen by half as a share of GDP.

The 'spending problem' is just ideologically-motivated misinformation on your part. Try telling the truth. And then do some effing job creation. Fix our infrastructure, for starters."

.

When President Obama first took office, the deficit was 10% of GDP!!! it has SHRUNK every year since he has been in office and is now down to 5% of GDP.

.

We have been LIED TO! We don't have a near-term deficit problem, we have a "GROWTH-deficit" problem - meaning, we need economic GROWTH:

WE NEED JOBS!

JOBS

JOBS

JOBS!

.

Mr Boehner: where are the JOBS you promised us?!?!?

.

FORWARD! :-)

kc nc well said!!

Yes, Harry Reid, where are the job bills that didn't get a vote under your watch?

Lil Michelle The President's jobs bill has been waiting for a vote for two years!! Can you say filibuster? Your party sure can! A record number of times!! The Presidents jobs bill has been vetted by everyone, EVERYONE and it could have already created millions of jobs on our infrastructure alone!! BUT, your party won't let it come to a vote!! The party of NO does not care about what is good for this country! They care about their donors! All 43 of them who gave almost a billion dollars!! On the other hand, Obama out raised them with an average donation of $54!! That is real people!! Not corporations! REAL people. You are a tea drinking sheep. It is so obvious that you don't care about the facts and that is sad. You can have your own opinions but not your own facts.

Libertarians filibustered it?

Forrest,

Agree, Obama is the ideal leader for these difficult times ? Although I do not agree with him on every issue, Obama has slowed this train destined to return us to a mid-evil times culture of Lords Barons and subjects, a time where all wealth and power are reserved to the few. And over the next four years I believe Obama will get this run away train turned around and headed in the right direction to benefit all Americans. And that is what is driving the Norquists and Lords and Barons of this world crazy.

I don't agree with him on every issue, heck I don't agree with my wife on every issue, but the electorate agrees with him on far more than the republicans wish to admit. Instead of facing that as fact, the republicans alternately denigrate the president and now the portion of the electorate that voted for him. Those politics and attitudes are failing them badly and greatly diminishes the chances of anybody taking them seriously on any valid points they may have. Their politics have been reduced to "you ignorant, lazy, communist fools, why don't you realize you should just vote for us" and it is not working so well for them.

"lil michelle". Any decent person reading your posts over time would have serious doubts that you even know what a Libertarian is and I know for darn sure that the Libertarians are not willing to welcome filthy liars into their fold. It's hard enough for them to have any political legitimacy as it is, they don't need deceitful liars like yourself tarnishing their image.

Stick with the Republicans. Apparently they like to pander to people like you.

Obama-care and business impact

"It’s going to affect business and it’s going to make it less competitive. "But probably every operator will have to deal with this. It will be an extra cost on the average hour that you have to pay for. And people will raise their prices and pass it on to the consumer."

do you call a meeting with your boss? Or wouldn't it make more sense for the boss to call a meeting with you?

do you call a meeting with your boss? Or wouldn't it make more sense for the boss to call a meeting with you?

The President is the boss of Congress? I don't recall seeing that in the Constitution.

Umm...they have been calling for Obama to meet with them the last couple of months...

I think it's fine to argue the call to meet was just politics, but to say they haven't asked for meetings is not correct.

blearyeyed

How do you have a meeting when the GNOP keep going on vacation? The House can't stay focused. ADHD?

Or just mass Bi-Polar?

lil: The President is the equal to congress. And, yes when I needed a meeting with my boss I was expected to call a meeting with her.

"...But one thing Americans simply will not accept is another tax increase to replace spending reductions we already agreed to."

Wrong, that's projection, only Republican congresscritters don't want increase the cost to their masters.

The American people are fine with it.

Source Braniac?

Lil Michelle...

Here is the answer to the question you posed to Brainiac...
http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2012/12/06/trio-of-polls-support-for-raising-taxes-on-wealthy/

That poll was taken BEFORE taxes were raised....

What's your point? The question was whether the majority of Americans support higher taxes on the wealthy and closing tax loopholes on corporations (aka increased revenue). Where, in truth, higher taxes for them is simply going back to the tax rates under the Clinton administration. The GOP is hypocritical about taxation because they were OK with increasing taxes on the middle class (by not allowing an extension of the payroll tax cut) because they were bitter that their true constituency (aka the uber-wealthy) was being "put upon" by going back to Clinton era tax rates. Try as you might but you simply can't come up with a factual or cogent argument to disprove my point. I look forward to reading your attempt to nonetheless.

notlib,

It's not taxation alone. It's reduced spending with increased taxation that must be put in balance. Obama cut a deal on January 1 to cut spending "later", with the Republican approval "then", to increase taxes on the wealthy. Obama's not making an effort on the deal he personally made. That's the real issue here. It's not the $85 billion/yr. Obama went back on his word, he's campaigned against "deal" agreements he made and now ridicules the opposition for questioning his "integrity". The opposition questions why they should work with a guy that clearly doesn't keep his promises.

My point being that taxes were lower, and Obama raised them. It was a deal that the republicans made, that if they raise taxes now, we would get spending cuts later.

So, to say that Americans favor raising taxes, when they have been already raised, is silly. How about a new poll that asks the question "Do you support raising taxes AGAIN?".

I really would like to know if Americans WOULD support another tax hike, that is why I asked for sources, preferably a current source. I was only interested if that was indeed a fact.

What I would really like to see, if a poll of WORKING people asked if they would take another tax hike. I'm sure the unemployed wouldn't mind.

Lil Michelle... I see. I also would like to see a poll concerning further raises on taxes and/or closing tax loopholes that are specifically targeted to help the wealthy avoid paying taxes. Don't kid yourself the tax code is riddled with such provisions.

The White house has offered up a plan to cut 4 trillion in spending as a replacement to the sequester.
http://www.whitehouse.gov/sites/default/files/docs/deficit_reduction_table_bucketed_r8.pdf
This plan was ignored by the GOP and has not garnered much discussion from democraps either. This plan includes idea proposed by previous GOP reps.

Lets get real here... the GOP failed in making Obama a single term president and now their new plan is simply to obstruct ANYTHING that Obama suggests in order to make his second term look as disastrous as possible so people blame Obama and, more importantly, democraps in general.

not -- that tax code was written primarily by democrats who controlled the house for much of the last 50 years or so.

is anything that contradicts what obama wants to do obstruction? if so, is there a need for an opposition party? why not just go to a single party system like putin runs and then there won't be any disagreement.

You have a lot of nerve, "lil michelle" asking others to quote their sources. Any time anyone asks you to back up your lying filth, you run and hide. Now you were given the source you asked for and you resort to an insulting lie.

It is obvious that you and the rest of the bottom feeder trash you wallow with have no interest in the improvement of the American condition. You are the biggest problem America faces and it is you that is bringing a once honorable party to it's knees.

Your little nazi attitude is precisely how the Taliban wants you to behave. I'm sure your mother is proud of your treason.

billybob... The tax code has been written and modified by both parties... don't try to inject partisanship into this point. There is plenty of blame to go around for both BS parties.

In answer to your "obstructionist" question... obviously not. Thanks for making the ridiculous point of "if so, is there a need for an opposition party? why not just go to a single party system like putin runs and then there won't be any disagreement." because it illustrates the facile and ludicrous positions of the GNOP. "Obama is a communist" or "King Obama" in order to stir emotional (not rational) fears within the hoi polloi. Typical stupidity from the party with NO ideas. The only ideas the GNOP and blue di_k democraps have are those that would benefit only the wealthiest Americans, special interests (oil & gas) or large corporations.

Ok, let's cut 85% to entitlement programs as well?

I agree with defense cuts (although not 85%....I'm thinking more like 50% over 10 years).

As to education, we already spend far more per student than anyone else in the world and we have the lowest student to teacher ratio in the world. I don't think money is the issue...how the money is being used seems to be the problem.

As to alternative energy, I agree with funding research (ex: the "X" competitions), but I do not agree with government trying to determine which companies will win/lose (ex: Solyndra).

Ok, let's cut 85% to entitlement programs as well?

If by entitlements you are referring to oil and farm subsidies and all the other forms of corporate welfare in this country, then I agree with you 100%

Trust me...they don't want to cut their grannys welfare either...they just talk about entitlement cuts like food stamps..not the biggies like grannies welfare

rickintheforest,

If we don't get our deficits under control, grannies welfare is going to be cut when countries stop lending to us or start charging significantly higher interest rates - and somehow I don't think China will really care about the impact on grannies.

Also, the only cuts I've heard about from either party would only kick in for those currently less than 55 years old. I haven't heard either party talk about cuts to existing retirees.

Sticking our heads in the sand is not sound fiscal policy.

Why cut 85% to "EARNED BENEFITS" programs?

They are not even a part of the deficit mess. Totally separate fund!

See? Please don't spew right wing idiot bait on this board!

http://www.coolfreebielinks.com/Articles/Social_Security_Not_Entitlement.html

GOPisextinct, you sound like you are what republicans would call a Union loving, liberal, Socialist, Commie, Marxist, tree hugger, and that is why I have such admiration for you!

@ GOP

idiot bait on this board. I have to go out and have a smoke just to get my head cleared. rotflmao

Yeah Zappas we have to go out to smoke, because we can now bring our guns more places than our cigarettes. Does everybody feel safer now?

@ Forrest

Since my wife & I have been together(30 years), I've never smoked in the house. She doesn't smoke, and thats fine. I don't take my gun outside to have a smoke. However, I would definately be packin if I went outside in Chicago to have a smoke

Congratulations Zappas for being married 30 years I too have been married for a little over 30 years, I thought maybe you were stepping out of the building where you work. I am just saying It seems I can literally bring my gun more places than my cigarettes, as a nation we now seem to be more worried about second hand smoke than second hand bullets.

It is too late? For those of us from other parts of the world, it is your thinking that is the problem.

Those would be the cuts that Bohner said he got 98% of what he wanted. Yep, they are definitely stupid...

Very cute. Juvenille nicknames and ignorant lies, all wrapped up in a single sentence.

Are you saying republicans do not want to cut SS and medicare? Why won't they cut todays senior welfare since it is nearly 60% of the federal budget?

what's juvenile - he IS a BONEHEAD

Boehner is a representative and not a senator so he would want it to go to his chamber of the house.

eric, really, now that is funny. Obama is a little sissy.

eric in oregon.

Hopefully President Obama bitch-slaps that gutless, lying traitor Boehner upside the head. I'd pay to see that.

Now, that's a plan that could possibly work; eric. Let's not forget the numbskulls have very dense craniums and non-functional brains.

or maybe he'll apologize to America for all of his BS and lies. Perhaps he'll finally fess up and tell us that he doesn't have a clue what he is doing.

Why aren't dems and repubs both raging mad over being manipulated for the benefit of the political class?

Actually, Obama's head is the thickest by far, and his ears would also help cushion the blow

All of this so nicely exemplifies why America is in shambles. People with this kind of thinking are the ones sending politicians on both sides to Washington. And look at how comfy it is in the bed you've made.

particularly the neanderthal reichwingnutjobs

Wow! You advocate violence? Spoken like a true person that has lost the debate, so has to resort to violence to get their way..... By the way, how many of Obama's promises were kept in his first term? And he's not a liar??? When one doesn't tell the truth, blames others for their own shortcomings and faults - why does this make them a good person, let alone a leader?

You have many issues!!!

And Harry Reid does absolutely nothing, as usual

Makes good headlines...

This is there accomplishment

...and Obama continues to blame Bush.

Right...Cause our President has already made so many concessions...He is such a diplomat and a wonderful leader.

Obama is in DC? Your kidding.

Congress is in DC? Your kidding? Thought they were on vacation, again.

Oh you just know this is time for some campaigning, Media, PR, and photo OP.

Mis-leading the public and misrepresenting / Deflecting so as to make you believe

everyone else is the problem.

For this is all Obama thrives on.

Obama has to keep dancing because he's actually too stupid to come up with an idea.

Oh you just know this is time for some campaigning, Media, PR, and photo OP.

You do realize we already held the election, the campaign is over, and that President Obama is not eligible for another term. You parrots of Rush really should consider some talking points that actually make sense.

are YOU a HAHVAHD Law graduate or just a skibum? (with high honors, by the way - him,not YOU)

#14. You do know they have until 11:59 pm on the 1st to stop this from going through?

The Republicans already passed two bills which the Senate didn't and won't vote on. Your abject stupidity makes you the perfect Obama rump swab.

lack of objective ability makes YOU a pot=kettle comparison (ass wipe?)

skibum609, both of those bills were passed by the 112th Congress and can't be used in the new Congress. If the Republicans are so concerned then why aren't they putting a bill forward?

Three Stooges? Really. More like the Keystone Cops. Both parties.

It's Boehner and McConnell who want to support their massive corporate welfare crowd.

^^^^^^ fu(king idiot

j willard, go crawl back underneath the rock you came from scumbag.

Keep worshiping the rich, they will tinkle down on you someday.

The rich aren't dumb enough to keep accepting increases in taxes...They'll just move their businesses and money elsewhere...Besides, your solution is basically employing Socialism...There are plenty of oppressive countries for you to move to; start packing

J. Willy Mary

I hope YOU aren't opposed to paying more taxes because that is what is coming.

WE could wipe out the rich or we could do the following: raise the income level for Social Security contributions; Cut the Federal workforce by 10% and an across the board pay cut of another 10%; raise Federal retirement age for pensions to 70; cut miltary forces overseas by 50%; cut the new fighter plane program in its entirety; get rid of the Department of energy since it failed in its mission; cut out tax loopholes; passa law making it illegal for the parents of anchor babies to apply for citizenship unless they already have a green card making them legal; pass a Constitutional amendment making only children of two citizens born on American soil, American by birth; cut our contribution to the UN to the exact amount of the highest payor; end our association with NATO, unless our faux allies pick up 75% of all costs; increase criminal penalties for those in Government who make money on the side from being in Government; reform welfare; stop spending massive amounts of money on extending the life of the elderly. Just watched a friend die of kidney cancer over a 3 year period, 90% of which was spent in the hospital, for a total of 3.1 million dollars.

Politicians are the easiest to operate on.

There's no guts, no heart, no balls, no brains, and no spine..
Plus, the head and the ass are interchangeable.

Hi J. Willard Marriott,

You pressed some right wing buttons. It's so funny how these low wage working stiffs jump on board to save the super rich, who in turn just pee pee on them.

OMG, Job1, you put it perfectly:

It's so funny how these low wage working stiffs jump on board to save the super rich, who in turn just pee pee on them.

Job1.......Good response. They keep thumping their chests about no tax increases and about how exceptional the country is, and that Progressives are ruining it, all the while forgetting that revenue is needed to keep it exceptional and it cant be great or stay great without increases in taxes.

The Obama administration is doing a terrific job at lowering the deficit but you wont hear a word about it from Rush or Fox. These nimrods who protest tax increases for the wealthy who most likely only pay them a pittance is laughable. Polling is showing the majority approve of the good job the President is doing in trying to restore exceptionalism.

pot=kettle uly? and then there's the skibum with the anesthetized gonads...

Gingerbread, what reduced deficit are you looking at? The one where Obama matched Bush's 8 years of deficit increase in only 4! So increasing the deficit in decreasing it? You need to learn math.

No Wolphi-301847--Gingerbread is right!!!! Obama and his administration are increasing the deficit at a lower rate than they wish too - thus they are lowering the deficit!!! It's the new "Obamanomics" - give me all your money, I'll spend it 3 times faster than I collect it and we all win!!!! And if I spend it slower than I desire too, it's really spending less - can't you understand this logic?

Can't you see this? Don't you understand that the only way the USA can conform to Obamas's vision of the future is if it is a broken, divided, shell of what is was before - the new, OBAMAED UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.

DHP, thank you for correcting my ignorance. Using your insightful logic, I now look forward to the day when they spend 3 times what they bring in while charging me at a tax rate of 150% of my earnings. Think about how great of a country we will have with that sort of revenue

I am going to say a few things here and say what you wish but I only speak of what I know. What I do know is Obama will be making announcements. The announcements will be world wide. If you think the Media tells you true stories then let me guess, you also think all those "stories" in your Middle School history class were real too? Really? Did it ever occur to you that something way deeper is going on? I mean go way back because what IS happening, there is no choice because we have already shifted, (don't believe me, go take a look at a live shot of the North Pole, it's not at the top anymore, hmm) Earth is turning to Heaven.

Period, end of story. You will learn the only way to live is with LOVE. Yes that's right life will be so simple when we ascend, oh your already moving up, don't you feel different? If you feel nothing I would advise you to clear your karma because karma IS real. Then sit quietly and see what happens. Well you'll never know if you don't try now will you.

How to explain what is happening......can't you see World Peace is happening I mean our Military men and woman are coming home.....all of them. No wars, that is done, there will never be another war-ever-imagine all the children who have only known a life of war? Bet they are paying attention and praying which is why they always have smiles on their faces?

Guns-go ahead play with your guns but please remember karma is a bitch and if you have a gun keep it in a safe place as you would not want your child to get a hold of it. Soon guns won't even fire, oh indeed God can make that happen.

God, is real.

Heaven is real.

This is not HOME.

you just don't remember begging your real parents, "please let me go to earth one more time!" and your parents said NO. "Earth is a mean, low vibrating place and you go there and live a hard learning life why do you want to go back?" then you insist you can do it again just this time better. Then you go into the Life of Charts, you pick out your Mom/Dad/siblings/job/any illnesses/the life you think you want on earth" some ask for the hardest life because they think while on earth they can do it better, again"........so then you reincarnate and your born. Yeah, go you. What were you/WE thinking?

So all those Life Lessons we all have gone thru were YOUR choice, you chose them to Learn from them, have ya had enough yet? I bet. We all have and the good news is life lessons for most of us are over.

Your mind has been manipulated into believing everything you've learned. We came to earth eons ago, this was a test, that's all this is, life is an illusion, we are going HOME. Oh and UFO's are your homes.....your space craft. Oh come on, many know UFO's are real, big deal, all you are is a soul in a human body. All an ET is a soul in an ANGEL'S body. We were used, abused, and now all that is done, done done.

Yeah yeah ya think I'm nuts, so be it. You just hang onto this for oh about a month, we shall see who is nuts, I can assure you it's not me!

Live in Love, Peace will come, once you have Love and Peace.....Joy follows..........

Namaste' from one Angel to another, you are loved and we are not alone.

XO

jwilly,spoken like a true govt. employee.

Playing political games with the US future.

With PEOPLE and there future

TO MANY GOV JOBS.

Fake economy and to much government control, regulation and will weigh on and sway elections.

No tits.