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The Obama Watch
Obama’s Robust Defense of Statism
The hero of the SOTU was not “innovation,” but big government.
On Tuesday night, we, the American people, were swindled by our own president, not merely out of cash, but out of our most cherished national ideal: independence.
The deception was deliberate. With all the charm he could muster, the president who spent the last two years elongating the tentacles of the leviathan delivered an aria of adoration for the symbol of global prosperity and ingenuity: the American entrepreneur.
“At stake is whether new jobs and industries take root in this country, or somewhere else,” he began.” It’s whether the hard work and industry of our people is rewarded.”
He continued, “…the stock market has come roaring back. Corporate profits are up. The economy is growing again.”
My god…Barack Obama is delivering Mitt Romney’s speech.
“No country has more successful companies, or grants more patents to inventors and entrepreneurs…. What’s more, we are the first nation to be founded for the sake of an idea — the idea that each of us deserves the chance to shape our own destiny… We need to out-innovate, out-educate, and out-build the rest of the world.”
The man who bore the law that compels each of us to buy health insurance says the very foundation of our nation is “the idea that each of us deserves the chance to shape our own destiny.”
The incompatibility of Obama’s signature legislative accomplishment with what he identified on Tuesday night as the founding idea of our country is as plain as the nose on George Washington’s face. Obama’s goal on Tuesday: blur the line. Make the two seem closer than they really are.
So he spoke with enthusiasm (summoning passion for the topic was beyond even his considerable gifts) of America’s independent spirit, the father of our robust innovation culture.
“What we can do — what America does better than anyone else — is spark the creativity and imagination of our people. We’re the nation that put cars in driveways and computers in offices; the nation of Edison and the Wright brothers; of Google and Facebook.”
Yet just when it appears that this is a speech made in tribute to the independent American entrepreneur, Obama reveals the real hero: the state.
“Our free enterprise system is what drives innovation. But [with Obama, there is always a “but”] because it’s not always profitable for companies to invest in basic research, throughout our history, our government has provided cutting-edge scientists and inventors with the support that they need. That’s what planted the seeds for the Internet. That’s what helped make possible things like computer chips and GPS. Just think of all the good jobs — from manufacturing to retail — that have come from these breakthroughs.”
Bait… and switch.
Save the introductory lines about Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, Obama spent the first 19 percent of his speech praising American entrepreneurship and individualism. The remaining 81 percent? A sales pitch for breaking the individual to the saddle of the state.
In Obama’s narrative, the individual is not the source of America’s success and prosperity — the state is. In every sector of the economy — from health care to energy to technology to transportation — Obama set this scene: Idea men and financiers are this close to moving us forward; all they need is the nudge, and that nudge can come only from the government.
About the Author
Andrew Cline is editorial page editor of the New Hampshire Union Leader. His Twitter ID is @Drewhampshire.
Letter to the Editor View all comments (156) | Leave a comment
More Articles by Andrew Cline
More Articles From The Obama Watch
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Deborah D | 1.28.11 @ 6:36AM
What's the old saying about raising teenagers? It's like trying to nail Jello to the wall. That's the way I feel every time I hear something almost positive out of the president's mouth. My first thought is that -- boy that sounds good -- and then I remember who said it -- someone who doesn't believe in America, someone who wants to "fundamentally transform" America (and has done a great job of screwing up the country in two years). If our country re-elects this man, we deserve our fate. Joe Wilson was correct last year when he hollered out, "You lie!" It's sickening to see someone who is supposed to love the country (our president) purposely deceive the people of the country so he can continue to destroy the America we know. Let's hope most Americans are on to him by now. He's a lot more slippery than Slick Willy ever was, and a lot more dangerous.
Redstateboy| 1.28.11 @ 8:32AM
Jim DeMint's commnet on the SOU summed it up best... DeMint said to paraphrase.. I trust what he says anymore.
And Deborah D? I agree with your assesment. Joe Wilson was right - He Lies.
Alan Brooks| 1.28.11 @ 10:29PM
Okay, go ahead, elevct another Bush-lapdog in '16.
It's your country, do what you want with it.
Jim from Maine| 1.29.11 @ 7:39AM
Thank you Alan, but I think it will happen in '12 real Americans deserve a lot better than this guy.
missbosslady| 1.29.11 @ 1:29PM
Alan,
Is it Obama's laziness that attracts you most? Reading your posts it would seem so.
How tiresome the liberal refrains have become. Repeat, regurgitate, rehash....the meme NEVER changes. It is quite absurd to refer to yourselves as progressives, as it conveys the impression that you wish to progress.
However, history belies the desire of progressives, to progress.
The basic tenets of the progressive left are archaic, at best.
Name changes, re-brandings, and wardrobe changes have not fooled those who know better. The same ideology by any other name, still smells like a crap sandwich.
Face it Alan, you're an idelogical dinosaur.
Stephanie| 1.30.11 @ 1:06PM
No Babydoll, that will be in 2012 and it won't be anybody's lapdog. That's reserved for the Lame Stream Media and their undying love for obama and his ilk.
Purpleguy| 1.29.11 @ 10:30AM
"It's sickening to see someone who is supposed to love the country (our president) purposely deceive the people of the country so he can continue to destroy the America we know."- what America? The America of GW Bush? Really? You do know that Bush is the one with his Wall Street Cronies and Congressional Shills that created the mess that started in 2007, don't you? Get your head screwed on straight before you start talking.
missbosslady| 1.29.11 @ 1:31PM
Purpleguy,
Thanks for example #2.
The predictability of your posts is a complete and total bore.
Alan Brooks| 1.29.11 @ 11:47PM
Purpleguy,
Guilt is eating at them for wasting 12 years with the Bush League.
And they blame us for it!
Oldefarte| 1.30.11 @ 1:52PM
Ollk, Purple Moron, many of us are sick and tired of your [and your fair-haired boy's] BULLEXCREMENT. This financial mess started with the Democrats' enactment of the CRA in 1977, and continued with the political manipulation of the GRE's [with the help of Barney Elmer Fud and his boyfriend @HUD] skidding the governmental wheels for their housing welfare termned AFFORDABLE HOMES [which the damned taxpayers of this country will pay for with each/every foreclosed house today]. Tell the GD truth [and quit kissing your 1600 friend's ars]!!!!!!!
Alan Brooks| 1.30.11 @ 5:50PM
An oldefarte like you gets more govt funding & services than any ghetto-dweller.
Homosexualcolordouchebag| 1.31.11 @ 1:11PM
Once again you give Alan Brooks and RCV and jharp and all the other lying idiots a run for their money.
Lawrence Boccardi| 1.28.11 @ 7:08AM
Everyday, I awaken, again thinking I am in the Land of Oz. I look on incredulously, that not only are the undecided, once again, buying this crap, but now the MSM compares this disgrace to Ronald Wilson Reagan!
Alan Brooks| 1.28.11 @ 10:31PM
You want to keep electing second-rate GOP candidates.
It's your business.
Clint| 1.30.11 @ 11:50AM
Yeah, when they could vote for a fourth-rate Obama.
Stephanie| 1.30.11 @ 1:08PM
Now Alan, doesn't it bother you that your man obama now wants to act like Reagan? Or pretend to anyway?
Oldefarte| 1.30.11 @ 1:54PM
Most of us will take second rate GOP'ers over DOMESTIC TERRORISTS DEMOCRATS any day of the week or year!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Alan Brooks| 1.30.11 @ 5:54PM
The churches have billions to wipe out ghettos in America, but they wont. Instead you want govt to give oldfartes such as yourself funds and services, so you can buy more cars or go on extra vacations.
Bill Hussein O'Stalin| 1.28.11 @ 7:23AM
Obama looked weak at best. His speech wouldn't even warm a cup of tea.
Alan Brooks| 1.28.11 @ 10:33PM
And your response is to run another tepid GOP post-Reaganite in '16?
It is YOUR funeral.
A Concerned American| 2.7.11 @ 1:28PM
Alan - if you don't listen and learn more about the plans and goals in Marxism, and of the Muslim (radical jihad) and are too dense to fit Obama right the picture - it is YOUR funeral! I just wish you would wake up and not drag the rest of us down with you.
Mimi| 1.28.11 @ 7:46AM
Our biggest problem is we can't wait for him to become an American and fully grow into the Job. We can't wait for him to turn into a " REAGAN". We certainly can't wait for a grown-up and one with Truth and Honor to suddenly appear.
We have to hang on for dear life and pray the NEW folks we elected in Nov. will stay strong and put a HOLD on the destruction.
Purpleguy| 1.29.11 @ 10:33AM
I sure hope he doesn't become "Reagan" - Reagan ruined the country you love so much. De-regulation at its height hit us in 2008, and even his Budget Director, David Stockman, is explaining why Reaganomics was so much smoke and mirrors, starting the rich on the path to greater wealth, while the middle class began a downward trend. And, you think Reagan was great? Everyone says he was, but he was not. Hell, he's the first one to run up huge, huge deficits - that's a conservative? Balderdash.
axbucxdu| 1.29.11 @ 1:56PM
The ruin goes back at least as far as a century, to Wilson. Along the way, he has been assisted by FDR and Nixon. Reagan had no influence in 1913.
Alan Brooks| 1.29.11 @ 11:50PM
Purpleguy, at least Reagan did better than the Bush Leaguers-- Reagan helped (it was Eastern Europeans who did the actual dirty work) end the Cold War.
Name a war the Bushes helped end. Desert Storm?
well it was not enough of an ending.
Alan Brooks| 1.30.11 @ 12:17AM
... Bush 41 'ended' a war in '91, then a dozen years later his sonny-boy had to fight another one against the same regime.
They both made Reagan seem like George Washington.
Clint| 1.30.11 @ 11:32AM
Democrat FDR had to fight another war in Europe against the same Germany Democrat Wilson fought ObamaBoy Brooks.
Alan Brooks| 1.31.11 @ 12:50AM
"Democrat FDR had to fight another war in Europe against the same Germany Democrat Wilson fought ObamaBoy Brooks"
No, it was two unrelated presidents (Wilson, FDR) fighting two different German regimes (#1, the Kaiser's; and #2, Hitler's. Bush 41 & 43 fought the same guy (Saddam).
If you are so proud, change Reagan National Airport to Dubya National Airport.
Oldefarte| 1.30.11 @ 2:08PM
The problem the Bushes made was in initiating a conventional war, which is unwinable [Korea, VietNam, Gulf,etc]. THE BOMB is of no use if not used as a warning to our enemies. It ended WWII, and brought it to an end. It needs to be used in the Middle East, instead of needlessly sending our young military soldiers to fight a conventional war against radical, unidentifiable religious zeolots that are effectively able to blend in with their non-violent friends/neighbors!!!!!!!!
Oldefarte| 1.30.11 @ 1:58PM
Moron, know the difference between 'the rich' and 'the middle class'? The former are those SMART ENOUGH, EDUCATED ENOUGH, INTELLIGENT ENOUGH to earn their own financial living; while the latter are those TOO STUPID, TOO DUMB, TOO LAZY to get off their governmental welfare assistance backsides and provide their own living in life. Guess we all know which class that you fit into, huh??????????
Alan Brooks| 1.30.11 @ 5:57PM
You are a senile old man who wants to use nukes in the Mideast without even knowing where or how. Perhaps if medical care gets worse in the US you will die off and one less Dr. Strangelove will exist.
Alan Brooks| 1.30.11 @ 6:01PM
...And the gall of you getting all that govt money when you don't even need it at all!
Hope you die sooner rather than later-- so you can be with the senescent old FartGod you worship.
You are an aborted old pig from a sow-God's belly.
Homosexualcolordouchebag| 1.31.11 @ 1:13PM
The democrats in the majority of both congressional houses ran up the deficit you lying idiot.
Melvin| 1.28.11 @ 8:06AM
He'll never turn into an American, because if he had to do so, he would have to admit to himself that everything he stood for and embraced as a leftist radical would be a abject failure.
Leftists never ever admit that their philosophy is wrong. Even when they're standing knee deep in the rubble of they're destruction, they still won't admit they were wrong.
Look at the American Communist Party. They're still pushing and promoting a failed ideology. Even the Russians now admit Communism was a failure. But not the American Socialists. It's hey diddle, diddle straight up the middle and full steam ahead because we're almost there and our brand of Socialism will work if we thrown enough money at it.
Alan Brooks| 1.29.11 @ 11:53PM
But you wont admit Bush was a failure.
And he signed on completely to the bailouts you call socialism.
Dubya, his father, and Neil "Silverado" Bush are all failures.
Clint| 1.30.11 @ 11:44AM
Yeah, why couldn't The Bush Family be Worldclass Successes like Obama's Old Man, Aunt Zeituni & Brother George ?
Oldefarte| 1.30.11 @ 2:12PM
Bush was not a failure, but a politically correct politician. The sole problem/failure are the historical Democrat politicians who hypocritically sell the American taxpayer-voters down the toilet by continuously providing governmental welfare to their indigent constituents for the SILVER price of these indigents' votes in return. The taxpayer is continually screwed by having to fund/pay for this welfare through their increasing tax payments!!!!!
Alan Brooks| 1.30.11 @ 6:05PM
"The sole problem/failure are the historical Democrat politicians who hypocritically sell the American taxpayer-voters down the toilet by continuously providing governmental welfare to their indigent constituents for the SILVER price of these indigents' votes in return. The taxpayer is continually screwed by having to fund/pay for this welfare through their increasing tax payments!"
Perhaps one problem is that you are getting too much, oldfarte. Whose problem is that?:
YOURS, because in the long run it makes your life unnecessarily complicated.
Again, it is YOUR funeral.
Intelligent Design| 1.28.11 @ 8:21AM
I catastrophic meltdown of the value of U.S. currency is imminent. The only way to avoid this, if it can be done at all, is for Congress to shut off government spending in a major way. We should bring all troops home from Iraq and Afghanistan, repeal Obamacare, eliminate entire federal departments such as Education and Energy, stop all funding of the UN, fire 500,000 civilian government employees, and like that.
Redstateboy| 1.28.11 @ 8:36AM
Intelligent Design: This IS the correct solution.
Cincinnatius| 1.28.11 @ 8:43PM
EXACTLY what we must do! The only thing lacking is the courage of the congress to DO IT! Sadly, it won't happen because they care more about staying where they are than trying to save America. Instead, they will play the end sum game and bet that they can ride the dead horse for as long as THEY need the ride. "To hell with everything and everyone else" is their motto.
Alan Brooks| 1.28.11 @ 10:39PM
"I catastrophic meltdown of the value of U.S. currency is imminent. The only way to avoid this, if it can be done at all, is for Congress to shut off government spending in a major way. We should bring all troops home from Iraq and Afghanistan, repeal Obamacare, eliminate entire federal departments such as Education and Energy, stop all funding of the UN, fire 500,000 civilian government employees, and like that."
And like that. End original sin, put draft card burning draft dodgers in prison; scrap Roe v Wade;
put homosekshels in prison where they belong an' cut their talleywhackers off; stop eatin' granola--
Cause everbody KNOWS that granola is plum full of mary-jew-wanna.
Jim from Maine| 1.29.11 @ 7:42AM
Troll alert !!!!!
missbosslady| 1.29.11 @ 1:52PM
Silly Alan,
Don't you yet realize that your purported conservative talking points are solely an invention of the left?
I am a conservative, raised by conservatives, that were raised by conservatives. Not one of us has ever uttered such moronic drivel in our lives. It takes a lefty to come up with such simplistic stupidity, and you're just the kind of arrested development type that they were aiming for in its invention.
How proud you seem to show how easily you were duped and how willing you are to shut your own mind down.
It is hard to tell, from your posts, whether you are a youngster, biologically, or just emotionally.
Studies have shown that the brain muscle, much as any other muscle, needs exercise. There is evidience that the lack of intellectual exercise is a culprit in the onset of Alzheimers, this should you give you pause.
But, at the end of the day everybody here knows why you posit nothing. You know in your heart of hearts that your foundation is flimsy, at best, and you lack the skill and dexterity it would require to try and support your flawed theories.
But I guess the ol' 'ring and run' can be considered a strategy in your set, your posts being the proverbial bag of flaming dog sh*t.
Alan Brooks| 1.29.11 @ 11:57PM
"Not one of us has ever uttered such moronic drivel in our lives."
Your religion is drivel insulting to Jesus.
You could lift all ghetto kids out of the mire right away with the money the Right and the churches possess. But you let them languish because the legacy of Christ is merely a badge for you to wear.
Pharisees! Philistines!
Oldefarte| 1.30.11 @ 2:15PM
Wow, Alan Boy, for once you've said something that makes sense!!!!!!!!!
Purpleguy| 1.29.11 @ 10:35AM
Or raise taxes and keep funding all necessary functions. Just because YOU don't like something isn't the government's problem. BTW - what are you going to do with all the people you fire? Put them on unemployment? Oh, that's right - they're good-for-nothings looking for a handout. How stupid.
missbosslady| 1.29.11 @ 1:54PM
Thank you purpleguy, only you could provide the pefect post to support mine.
Alan Brooks| 1.30.11 @ 12:23AM
These wingnuts are not Christians;
if Jesus returned they would put Him in prison.
Alan Brooks| 1.30.11 @ 12:28AM
... look, she calls herself "missbosslady", but what is she boss of?: a bank? Perhaps a piggy bank? "Bosslady". Yeah, right- that's a good one. Maybe her husband is president of the HeMan Womin Haters Klub.
Could you blame the wretch?
Oldefarte| 1.30.11 @ 2:20PM
Oh, yeah Prissy Purple, HOW STUUUUUPID. No, moron, what's going to eventually happen is most of all governmental welfare will cease to be funded [except for the truly elderly/infirmed/needy], and the remainding freeloaders will have two choices: WORK FOR THEIR OWN FINANCIAL SUPPORT or EAT EXCREMENT AND DIE. If the former is chosen, they will replace the illegals by working in crop fields, cleaning buildings, whatever; and the illegals will immigrate back to Mexico. Welfare will become workfare, baby; so get use to it!!!!!
Anthony| 1.28.11 @ 8:31AM
If Bush had made that Wall Street comment during his SOTU, Schumer and the rest of the D hacks would be screaming "everything for the fat cats and Wall Steet, nothing for Main Street."
Forget his mimicking Reagan, Obozo's faint praise for capitalism came right out of Alinsky.
He and the first black president have a lot in common, especially "HOW CAN WE FOOL THEM TODAY?"
Booger | 1.28.11 @ 8:35AM
From the desk of the Once and Future Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi:
To: President for Life B. Hussein Obama:
Dear Comrade and Leader in The Struggle,
Let me first tell you that although our party suffered grievous losses in the previous election, it was not your fault. In point of fact the losses we suffered were not the fault of anyone on our team. These losses can, I believe, be directly attributed to the wiles of Sarah Palin and her willing accomplices on talk radio and faux news. After having seen the insanity of the assassin in Arizona, I believe we may safely conclude that he was driven to his madness by exposure to Palin and the Tea-Bagger party's rhetoric. Likewise, I believe we can safely assume that the amerikkkan people as a whole were driven to madness by this same rhetoric, which explains our defeat. There was nothing wrong with You, or any other part of our party, the problem is with the amerikkkan people themselves and the madness they have been infected with.
That being the case, I am from San Francisco, and have often been told by my friends and family that I have a VERY keen understanding of insanity. Thus, it behooves me to offer You a bit of advise, if I may be so bold. The amerikkkan people elected You because they admired Your moderation, especially after eight years of the war-mongering cowboy who preceded You. Perhaps You should take this opportunity to remind them of Your moderation. I believe that if You communicate Your moderation to the amerikkkan people they will quickly return to the fold of Yourself, their One True Leader. Here are a few ideas I have put together:
1. You understand that debt is a problem. How do you solve a problem? Not by running away, but by meeting it head on. If debt is scary people, then they must learn to face their fears! How can they face their fears? By incurring even more debt! You are delivering the amerikkkan people from their fear of debt. Just remember to tell them that the only thing they have to fear is fear itself. Then they will realize that You are truly moderate in Your spending, and the debt you incur is for their own good in helping them to overcome their fear of debt! It's foolproof!
2. You have never shot anyone. Only crazy right-wingers shoot people! Remind the people over and over again that You are the Man of Peace. Once they realize that violence is a product of the reactionary right-wing fascists who call themselves "conservatives" the people will remember their true love for You, their Benign Leader.
3. You have never had an abortion. While You are "personally opposed" to abortions performed in the 14th month, You understand that womyn have a constitutional right to choose. As a result You will not bind Your morals on anyone else, which would of course be above Your pay grade. After all, You don't want to impose Your morals on womyn's bodies, which is the reason You are the true moderate. Once the people understand this they will reject the anti-abortion fascists immediately.
4. You want what's best for everyone's health, even if You have to make them do what's right. Universal Health Care, Your Great Blessing to amerikkka, can succeed only if the people give up smoking, drinking, red meat, fried food, trans fats, salt, corn syrup, processed sugar, and are force to exercise two hours a day. Yes, You will have to use thousands of new IRS agents to enforce these rules, but just tell the people how much more svelte and sexy they will be! Once they understand You are forcing them to do this for their own good they will love You all the more!
Well, these are just a few humble suggestions I have for Your Greatness. Please excuse me for any unintended annoyance I may have caused you.
Sincerely,
Once and Future Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi
http://beautifulletters-bls.bl.....ma-is.html
Nunya| 1.28.11 @ 11:32AM
And just think of all those new jobs that will be created by adding those IRS agents to enforce the rules!
Purpleguy| 1.29.11 @ 10:36AM
Tripe from Conservative Fairyland
Alan Brooks| 1.30.11 @ 12:00AM
And they call themselves Christians.
These Pharisees would put Christ in a homeless shelter if he 'came back'.
Oldefarte| 1.30.11 @ 2:25PM
Purple and Alan, they only two FAIRIES are you two! Oh, and dumbars, JC was a working CARPENTER by trade, and turned water into wine and multiplied bread to feed the masses [HE wasn't a governmental freeloading, lazy moron]!!!
Alan Brooks| 1.30.11 @ 6:11PM
"JC was a working CARPENTER by trade, and turned water into wine and multiplied bread to feed the masses [HE wasn't a governmental freeloading, lazy moron]!"
Yeah, he didn't get tons of money from the govt like oldfartes do in the 21st century. The only way for us to know how much you get from the govt is to ask you to scan all the pertinent documents and post them on a website called "oldefarte's income stream from Uncle Sam"
fooners3| 1.30.11 @ 2:09PM
Somebody gets it. Way to go Booger. Say hi to Warren for me.
Donna| 1.28.11 @ 9:06AM
Andrew, the best analogy of the speech I’ve read. Well done!
Ken (Old Texican)| 1.28.11 @ 9:08AM
Thanks again, Booger.
DaveS| 1.28.11 @ 9:12AM
Please stop arguing the debt angle on Obamacare. I wouldn't care if it were free: it is not up to the State to decide what I buy. I'll be buying the Chevy Volt ($41,000 piece of crap) if this winners/losers picked by the government approach continues and I don't get the special and cherished exemption. Then I am supposed to be grateful to this government? I am so sad for my country. This idiot (show me the grades) talked his way into undiscerning pants and the resisters have to pay for it for awhile yet.
LiveFreeOrDie| 1.28.11 @ 3:50PM
I got this email the other day:
Let me get this straight . . . .. We're going to be "gifted" with a health care plan we are forced to purchase and fined if we don't, Which purportedly covers at least ten million more people, without adding a single new doctor, but provides for 16,000 new IRS agents, written by a committee whose chairman says he doesn't understand it, passed by a Congress that didn't read it but exempted themselves from it, and signed by a President who smokes, with funding administered by a treasury chief who didn't pay his taxes, for which we'll be taxed for four years before any benefits take effect, by a government which has already bankrupted Social Security and medicare, all to be overseen by a surgeon general who is obese, and financed by a country that's broke!!!!! 'What the hell could possibly go wrong?'
Mimi| 1.28.11 @ 5:19PM
PRICELESS !!
VBMax| 1.28.11 @ 8:24PM
A great post!
Purpleguy| 1.29.11 @ 10:39AM
the Government of the United States has been picking winners and losers in the economic struggle since the Founders Days. Doubt it - read Alexander Hamilton's treatise on Manufacturing. What we lack in this country is an industrial policy like Hamilton's which by the way, we followed for approx 180 years - until air head Reagan came along and started our decline.
Oldefarte| 1.30.11 @ 2:31PM
Purple Excrement, our government was founded to establish the collective support of a military, period. There was no WELFARE in the seventeen hundreds, idiot. Only lazy, stupid individuals have to rely upon governmental welfare. Oh, and those receiving SS and Medicare PAID FOR IT THROUGH LIFETIME PAYROLL DEDUCTIONS. Medicaid etc recipients have never [nor will they ever] PAY FOR THEIR WELFARE. They're worthless freeloaders!!!!!!!!
Alan Brooks| 1.30.11 @ 6:17PM
There is welfare for wealthy people your age.
At one time they climbed the beaches in Normandy and Guadalcanal, today they climb the steps to the tax counselor--
to get another write-off.
But all it does is make your life more complicated, or you wouldn't be so exercised. You could be in a church right now, praying to the Gerontocratic Swine God you worship- but you'd rather be at AS?
DaveS| 1.28.11 @ 9:15AM
P.S. I saw the released photo of his new press secretary. Looks tell all: knows more than you, you don't have a chance.
Doctor Right| 1.28.11 @ 9:25AM
Speak for yourself, Mr. Cline!
I wasn't "swindled" out of anything. To be "swindled" would be to admit that I believed first in his (Obama's) "sincerity".
Since I NEVER believed that he is anything but a hard-left, unrepentant socialist, a narcissist, and a liar, I don't even bother watching or listening to this fool.
Like the old saying goes, "He only lies when his lips move".
I simply wish the GOP would stop playing footsy and go on the attack (like they were elected to do).
Ned| 1.28.11 @ 11:50AM
Exactly what the good Doctor said...
Purpleguy| 1.29.11 @ 10:42AM
"I simply wish the GOP would stop playing footsy and go on the attack (like they were elected to do)." - Really? It's people like you that fuel tragedies like the Tucson Arizona shootings. Weren't they elected to represent the people and to do the people's business? From the results of the Lame Duck session and the positive polling afterwards, wouldn't you think you'd get a clue that THAT is what the country really wants - to get something done - not "attacks". Putz.
missbosslady| 1.29.11 @ 2:05PM
Wow! Just WOW!
Thank you, thank you purpleguy, for that awesome display (and so succinct) of utter and complete stupidity.
There is so much inaccuracy in your short paragraph, and such an obvious lack of understanding of the American system, as it was designed, that one would hardly know where to begin, if one were inclined to have an intellectual fist fight with a 10 year old.
Alan Brooks| 1.30.11 @ 12:32AM
But you ARE a wingnut.
"missbosslady" is a whacky name, for starters.
Maybe you think you are Oprah?
Oldefarte| 1.30.11 @ 2:37PM
No, DIPEXCREMENT, the Tucson massacre [like the Ft Hood one] are the result of insane, radical, extremely-liberal, morons such as yourself that presume that the working world owes them a living, are incapable of making their won way in life, blame society for their personal failings, and take revenge upon innocents for their putrid existance on this earth [instead of off themselves solely/privately and doing the world a favor]. You liberal fools are pathetic, blaming everyone except the insane bastards in life that perform these dastardly deeds. Want a cause-----LOOK IN THE GD MIRROR!!!!!!!!!!
Alan Brooks| 1.30.11 @ 6:30PM
If we used all the funds that those your age receive from the state, we could erase every ghetto in America.
But it wont happen, I know. The swinish God you worship shall not allow it-- He has other plans.
For it is Written:
"the oldefartes shall inherit the Earth."
For it is Written:
"the oldefartes must live in luxury, while the ghetto dwellers shall fight over a vial of meth, or a pair of tennis shoes."
For it is Written:
"the oldefartes shall use the extra bucks they obtain from Sam to go on a vacation in the Caribbean this winter, while the ghetto-dweller impregnates a 'ho in NYC or El Lay."
For it is Written:
"the oldefartes shall sit in a tax office, while the darkies & whitetrash shall wait on line at General Assistance."
Amen, brothers in Ephesus and Cleveland;
brothers on the road to Damascus, and on the road to Detroit. AMEN.
Louis Jenkins| 1.28.11 @ 9:26AM
For instance: "Within the next five years, we'll make it possible for businesses to deploy the next generation of high-speed wireless coverage to 98 percent of all Americans."
Yes, and we'll shut it down so tight when we please that it will make a pig sqeal. Don't want those anti-government ideas circulating around in the new age of civility. In Eygpt they're doing just that today. Imagine if it happens in the USA. We will become unglued, businesses will go bust, and everyday life will be halted. Just a thought.
PaulD| 1.28.11 @ 9:43AM
That photo! Obama looks like some five-year-old who's just been told he was the best sunflower in the kindergarten play.
Dustoff| 1.28.11 @ 10:11AM
O-bummer care grants 733 waivers.
LOL, but wait, they said it was so good.
skip| 1.28.11 @ 10:40AM
The great orator?
W(inning)
T(he)
F(uture)
?
The idiot-in-chief:
W(itless)
T(ripe)
F(rom a fool)
Our Sputnik moment? (as in: one part of a huge program by a communist government intended to embarass its hated enemy but bankrupted its country instead while also leading to its current leadership by criminal thugs - that Sputnik moment?)
W(hat)
T(he)
F(if you see Kay)
CopyKatnj| 1.28.11 @ 10:41AM
"Within the next five years, we'll make it possible for businesses to deploy the next generation of high-speed wireless coverage to 98 percent of all Americans."
So what. That particular item was intended for the high schoolers and college students. I personally put that on par with boom-boxes.
skip| 1.28.11 @ 12:57PM
The God given right to high speed internet service whether you can afford it or not is in the constitution after the part about the God given right to have others pay for your sex change operation as part of the God given right to health insurance clause. It's in the same article of the constitution allowing women to arbitrarily murder their own flesh and blood.
Purpleguy| 1.29.11 @ 10:51AM
It's called "Pursuit of Happiness" - which is in the Declaration of Independence.
As regards the Constitution - those items must be in the same place that says Congress is empowered to create a shadow army of highly paid contractors, right alongside where it says Congress shall have the right to offer no-bid contracts to their buddies, which is right next to the article that forces the Christian religion on everyone and everywhere. Get the point?
Education - the Constitution was written in general vague language in many areas to allow the government freedom to interpret meaning for a changing civilization. The Founders knew nothing of cars, planes, rockets, telephone, television, the computer, the internet, skyscrapers, microwave ovens, or the electric light. Where they were specific they meant to be, but in the realm of commerce, they were intentionally vague, leaving interpretation to the Congress, President and Judiciary of the Day.
So any literal reading of the Constitution misses the full beauty of what the Founders gave us. Why do you think the Constitution has lasted as long as it has?
missbosslady| 1.29.11 @ 2:11PM
Nobody gets your point purpleguy. Your all over the map vomiting 'isms' of the left, that those of us old enough have been hearing since long before you were born.
I know this bill of goods was sold to you as something shiny and new, but you've been duped. This tarnished and well traveled ideology is thread bare and about to face hard realities.
Here's a quiz question for you.
What other companies had the same capabilites for the task as Haliburton, that they should have been allowed to bid?
Give me one name.
Oldefarte| 1.30.11 @ 2:44PM
Purplemoron, listen to a replay of Andy Griffith's WHAT IT WAS WAS FOOTBALL of the 1950's. It details how/why we humans were put here on earth!!!!
Alan Brooks| 1.30.11 @ 6:42PM
But Opie became a LIB'RAL Hollyweird pro-ducer makin' movies like 'Splash', where the mermaid gets all nekkid 'n' everthin'.
Why? 'cause Opie werent listenin' when Aunt Bea was at the table! so Opie shacked up with all them fancy broads in Hollyweird and smoked a little o' that funny stuff they grow in Jamaica. Now Opie is a LIB'RAL who thinks it is okay that Rock Hudson was a poofter!!
Homosexualcolordouchebag| 1.31.11 @ 1:18PM
"Why do you think the Constitution has lasted as long as it has?"
Certainly not because of lying idiots who constantly misinterpret it while they are responding to a comment about high speed internet access.
Tom James| 1.28.11 @ 10:50AM
"That's what planted the seeds for the Internet."
A pure crock. The Internet was devised not by the government, and not even by private companies. It was invented in universities (MIT, Stanford, UCLA) and later supported by the military for top-secret transfer of information. Exactly what "help" did the government provide to Edison, Bell, the Wright Brothers, Henry Ford, Fulton, Watson and Crick or Bill Gates?
sane person| 1.28.11 @ 12:56PM
You are not quite correct. The ArpaNet (the technology of the Internet) was created by Universities working as contractors to the DoD (ie DARPA). However, the important protocols were devised by a small number of Govt employees who worked for DARPA at that time.
Purpleguy| 1.29.11 @ 10:55AM
Good Job - you beat me to it.
jim| 1.28.11 @ 10:54AM
You're preaching to the choir.
When you want to make a point that touches those who don't agree with you, you don't write things like "If President Obama's trust were in free enterprise, would he have delivered as his one piece of advice to young people, these lines: "If you want to make a difference in the life of our nation; if you want to make a difference in the life of a child -- become a teacher. Your country needs you."
This country DOES need good teachers who care about their students' success! There's nothing wrong with that!
If you want to show that Obama doesn't believe in free enterprise, find a solid example. This kind of example just cheapens your argument.
missbosslady| 1.29.11 @ 2:17PM
jim,
Leaving out the Democrats and their fellow travelers, the teacher's union, from your post was missing the unspoken, but well know pact between the two. That's why its a bad idea when it comes from Obama.
Besides, let's not forget the ol' "those that can't, teach" thing.
Teachers don't innovate and invent, they teach about others who did. Let's not confuse the two.
Ron| 1.28.11 @ 11:22AM
There are almost 100% comments which are anti-Obama. The only problem he has a 50% approval rating! Some people, evidence to the contrary, believe Obama is doing a good job! Until that number hits reality there is very little reason to have "Hope".
Spoonman| 1.28.11 @ 11:46AM
Remember - approval ratings and poll results are easily twisted. Constructing the poll questions carefully can influence the results greatly.
This man wants common folks to believe he is an admirer of Ronald Reagan (but his actions prove he is not); he wants us to think he is for small business (but his actions demonstrate he is not); he wants us to believe that he is now a fiscal conservative (but his actions prove he is not); he wants us to believe that health care costs will go down under obamacare (but they are actually increasing); and, he wants us to believe that the federal budget deficiet will decrease because of obamacare (but the facts demonstrate it has not and will not) - the list could go on and on.
My point is do not trust this man to do anything he says because he will say anything to retain his power and increase the intrusion of government into your lives.
Deborah D | 1.28.11 @ 3:49PM
Agree with you totally. It's sleight of hand -- he wants you to look over here, so he can do his trick over there.
Purpleguy| 1.29.11 @ 10:56AM
His poll numbers are higher than Reagan's at this point in their presidencies - might as well starting hoping for 2016 .. 2012 is a done deal.
Oldefarte| 1.30.11 @ 2:49PM
What a utter fool you are! He won by brainwashing voters into believing he was something other than what/who he actuall is. He was a political unknown, and Hillary and McCain had the political goods to out him but chose political correctness instead. He's now completely exposed politically speaking, and his trojun horse will continue to lose planks going forward to 2012. Dream on, idiot!!!!!!!!
Nancy in NC| 1.28.11 @ 3:57PM
Lots of validity in that statement. Many prefer to watch the Jersey Girls, Skin, and the Cardashian Sisters than think the world as they know it is collapsing around their foolish heads.
By the time the 9,000,000 that watched Jersey Girls this week realize what has happened to their future, it will be much too late. It's not the insane left and their ilk that is killing this country, but the 40% that are clueless and care less.
The hippies of the 60s are in charge of the insane asylum or reporting about it on the MSM.
My optimism about our future is on the wane.
Francis W. Porretto | 1.28.11 @ 11:30AM
But surely none of this was unexpected? Obama has been steeped in statism since he was in diapers. Nor could he easily be induced to say anything that might undercut the glory of his "accomplishments" to date.
We speak here of a bad man with an evil agenda. Don't expect him to change course or admit to error.
withFrancis| 1.28.11 @ 12:45PM
Yes, a bad man with an evil agenda.
Obama hates America, and he is doing a great job of bringing America to its knees.
His solid support shows that many American citizens join him in hating America.
More amazing than America electing an anti-American to the presidency is the fact that it really looks possible he will be re-elected!
Purpleguy| 1.29.11 @ 11:01AM
Name one politician that isn't? That is the essence of political careers. You only differ in how you want them to use the state ... We are all statists - or we are anarchists. Who do you think protects your right to bear arms - the government; the statists. Who do you think protects your right to free speech - the government; the statists.
We've all been statists for over over 200 years, so it's really not an insult or criticism. He is us.
missbosslady| 1.29.11 @ 2:21PM
purpleguy, you might want to educate yourself just a tad bit with regards to statism before you post on the subject again.
Remember, we don't know that your a dope until you post something as proof.
Oldefarte| 1.30.11 @ 2:57PM
No fool, taxpayer-voters elect politicians to WORK FOR THEM and to RUN THEIR GOVERNMENT. They do not elect them to steal their income through forced tax payments to fund welfare to the lazy and the stupid in return for their votes. Just as they purchase products/services from private/commercial entities who historically provide value to consumers, they elect politicians to run their government. When these politicians turn into corrupt crooks out for their own personal political gain by subversively giving welfare to indigents for votes, and making taxpayer-voters pay for same with ever increasing taxes, then they have ever right to defeat/replace these corrupt politicians with those that will perform as they/taxpayers demand!!!!!!!!!!!!
Steve in Pittsburgh| 1.28.11 @ 12:12PM
Actually, we park cars in driveways and drive cars on parkways.
Oldefarte| 1.28.11 @ 12:35PM
As one who did not listen/watch his propagandized speech, I'm still amazed at those who do so [since it is a waste of time]. The solution is simply to ignore his words/actions, and to concentrate upon the 2012 elections, at which time the taxpayer-voters can replace him with a credible president. Support, incouragement and thanks should now be given to those Republicans in the House as they fight their brave battle against his domestic terrorism policies/procedures!!!!!!!!!
Pat| 1.28.11 @ 12:42PM
There’s good money nowadays in being president of these United States, free room and board, family medical with your own personal physician on call 24/7, very generous salary, fat pension once you leave this high profile, but temporary, job. And after you’re no longer in the White House, the treasure chest becomes even richer – everyone wants to be your friend – you’re showered with money because we, the Public, still need you in our lives – or, rather, we need time to let you go. Still, the Harry Truman mythos continues to define the vision of ex-presidents within our society.
Truman was the last of the “common man” presidents to hold office – his origins were humble and upon leaving office he retired to his modest home in Missouri. During that era, ex-presidents weren’t showered with lucrative offers to serve on boards of prestigious national foundations, they didn’t receive million dollar advances against their future “My Years in the White House” book deal, they weren’t offered $100,000 for a single speech. Truman didn’t even receive a pension.
Americans wanted Truman to give speeches and attend public functions after leaving office but honest Harry believed it was morally wrong to exploit the office of president for money and he had to beg off because he couldn’t afford to travel the country addressing audiences at his personal expense. After surviving the independently wealthy Franklin D. Roosevelt, we as a nation were shocked our ex-president couldn’t cavort like a multi-millionaire and was forced to live frugally – the nation began granting ex-presidents pensions and other bennies. “Jimmuh” Carter, Gerry “I tripped” Ford, Nixon, the Clinton tag team – all ex-presidents were destined to benefit from their former “temp” job. So, now ex-community organizer Obama would like another term in office before he becomes ex-president Obama. Maybe, like Truman, it’s about his desire to serve his fellow citizens but more than likely it’s about his desire to serve himself.
Occam's Tool| 1.28.11 @ 7:40PM
Actually, Harry WAS offered board directorships and the like, but he knew they wanted an ex-President and not Harry Truman, so he refused.
martin j smith| 1.28.11 @ 12:44PM
I was not fooled at all by Obama. He thinks he is so clever in using certain phrases that amount to extolling the virtues of this nation while digging us into a grave. Once you hear him say the word "invest" in education etc. You know he is full of crap.Its all about government spending and propping up the Teacher's Unions. His friends and allies. So I was not fooled but we have been swindled by all of his spending from the start of his presidency. Now those who were ignorant have no excuse.
Purpleguy| 1.29.11 @ 11:07AM
Anyone who cares to read and look it up knows that 1.00 spent on education returns 3.00 to the treasury through the greater opportunity for higher salaries and better paying jobs. Education IS the best investment, followed by infrastructure investments that provides faster, cheaper, more efficient ways of moving people and industrial goods, and offering cleaner water, air and sewage treatment. Those in turn provide boosts to business and health and create a better society for all of us to enjoy. What don't you get about that?
Oldefarte| 1.29.11 @ 11:43AM
You obviously don't know EXCREMENT concerning business, financial, economic matters; have never studied same in colloge; have never run/managed a business; and are simply polly-parroting Barry's and Democrats' PROPAGANDA! An investment is a financial vehicle that either earns a profit or a loss, and is confined to the PRIVATE SECTOR [and has no basis in fact to the PUBLIC SECTOR/GOVERNMENT]. Governments do not earn money or make profits, and their income is derived [not from selling a product or service] by TAXING THE INCOME OF ITS EARNERS. There is no investment in government, but rather it SPENDS ITS CONFISCATED TAX MONEY UPON ITS EXPENSES which if anything, decrease in value [ie bridges, roads, etc] and have to necessarily have to be replaced over time. STOP BEING A PROPAGANDIST!!!!!!!!!
Amy | 1.28.11 @ 12:49PM
In his speeches, Obama always seems to be taking credit for (and ownership of ) things that don't belong to him.
Intelligent Design| 1.28.11 @ 3:53PM
Obama is so ignorant and arrogant that he thinks the president runs the country. He thinks his speeches will magically change the world. No one is listening. He could have given the SOTU speech in his bathroom while evacuating and it would have the same effect.
Purpleguy| 1.29.11 @ 11:07AM
Like what?
Oldefarte| 1.29.11 @ 11:44AM
Like EVERYTHING that he say and does, FOOL!!!!
Kurt in S.L.C.| 1.28.11 @ 2:08PM
Amy, You are absolutely right about Barry taking credit for and ownership of that which does not belong to him,it's what collectivists (Marxists) do. It allows them to assume the moral high ground in their own minds,when they claim the right to redistribute those things
Tom James| 1.28.11 @ 2:13PM
Sane Person: You're right that, in the final development of the Internet, it was done under contract from the DOD. But the precursors to the Internet, the underpinnings, were products of universities and the protocols that accomplished the conflations that resulted in the system were being worked out before DOD got involved. My point being that we are often led to believe, as Obama tried, that without the government we would be in a preindustrial backwater.
sane person| 1.29.11 @ 11:45AM
Tom this is not correct. The first very high level preliminary layout was done by Larry Roberts at MIT LL working as a contractor to DARPA. A more detailed design was then done by Kahn et al at BBN in Boston, also with DARPA funding.
Kahn then moved to DARPA (as Govt employee) and run the ArpaNet project for a number of years. During that time, Kahn and Cerf (Cerf was working as a Govt employee at the time) developed TCP/IP Internet protocol which is in many ways a key underpinning of the system.
My point is that DARPA (ie Govt funding) lead not only to the Internet, but companies like Cisco, 3Com, Qualcomm, Sun Microsystems, etc. as well as propelled integrated circuit manufacturing technology such that we all benefit from the jobs and economic growth derived therein.
Importantly, when the people who created the Internet were just starting to build the prototype system, they contacted AT&T who wanted nothing to do with them. AT&T was rightly fearful that packet switching (how info is sent in the Internet) would take over and replace circuit switching (how the Bell system operated).
This was an example of "creative destruction" that was made only possible by Govt R&D funding.
There are many example of this over our country's history and frankly I think we should encourage this kind of development (that is, if we want to stay ahead of the Chinese and Indians in technology).
gilbert| 1.28.11 @ 3:02PM
another garbage thread full of passion with no merit. it's the economy "yall"!
see you on this thread in 2012. if you are all "soooooo right (pun intended)" he wont' be re-elected then but he will. supreme court will uphold obamacare (you got a preview of the votes "for" at the state of the union - the attendees; 5-4! six attended - 5 will vote in favor).
remember GILBERT. i see the future - not win it.
Greg Buls| 1.28.11 @ 5:35PM
Obama makes no distinction between his policies and everyone pursuing their own destiny.
In his mind, tens of millions have been forbidden from seeking their own destinies by the cruelties of a racist, oppressive system. His main focus is the words, 'each of us'. Our main focus is the word, 'shape' - as in choose.
Moreover, he sees nothing incompatible with his policies and reasonable amounts of choice. "Life's winners" have been pursuing happiness to the exclusion of others, see, so they can have a little less choice so that some others may have the tiniest little shred of hope. They'll still have plenty of choice. He made all of this clear during the 2008 campaign, when he repeatedly stated that we do nothing to help the poor and sick.
Mr. Obama is a pure ideologue, tempered only by the extremes of what is possible. Because he sees the entire society as unfair, he's going to change it root and branch if he can.
If by some miracle this man wins re-election, we're in for some trying times that will likely make the present level of discord seem like the good old days. Either way, we're going to have to look at his snide, smug face and listen to his droning, on and off, for the rest of our lives. Maybe he'll go back to cocaine and stay out of the public eye. Or maybe he'll go back and finish up his banner work in South Chicago.
Albert| 1.28.11 @ 6:36PM
The greatest problem with President Bozo's SOTU TV Show is not that he spews this BS and pretends what he is doing is not really what he is doing, but that 40+% of American voters believe him and support him! The Big Media Propaganda Machine that built up this empty suit from nothing is a grand success in fooling a, frankly, stupid American public in to voting against their own best interests. President Bozo did not shoot his way in to office, he was ELECTED! And that is the most frightening part of this.
Purpleguy| 1.29.11 @ 11:12AM
Try 53% of Americans support him. As the economy improves, his popularity will continue to improve - or would you prefer America fail and Americans remain jobless?
Oldefarte| 1.29.11 @ 11:47AM
False! If he does now have such poll numbers, it reflects his PERSONAL POPULARITY AS A SMILEY FACE, SUPPOSABLE LIKABLE GUY. It does no longer reflect their opinion of his ability to run the government, which is probably close to 15%. Stope being a propagandist!!!!!!
Stephanie| 1.30.11 @ 1:12PM
who took that poll? MSNBC?
Occam's Tool| 1.28.11 @ 7:38PM
Obama is a null.
Purpleguy| 1.29.11 @ 11:22AM
"At stake is whether new jobs and industries take root in this country, or somewhere else," he began." It's whether the hard work and industry of our people is rewarded."- You disagree? Really?
"because it's not always profitable for companies to invest in basic research, throughout our history, our government has provided cutting-edge scientists and inventors with the support that they need." Bait and Switch - Really? Didn't you hear of the Transcontinental Railroad or the Interstate Highway System? How about Transatlantic Steamboat travel? Where do you think the incentives and seed money came from to start those enterprises? The Conservative Fairy?
Where do you think these things came from (NASA) ENRICHED BABY FOOD - A microalgae-based, vegetable-like oil called Formulaid developed from NASA-sponsored research on long duration space travel, contains two essential fatty acids found in human milk but not in most baby formulas, believed to be important for infants' mental and visual development.
WATER PURIFICATION SYSTEM - NASA-developed municipal-size water treatment system for developing nations, called the Regenerable Biocide Delivery Unit, uses iodine rather than chlorine to kill bacteria.
SCRATCH-RESISTANT LENSES - A modified version of a dual ion beam bonding process developed by NASA involves coating the lenses with a film of diamond-like carbon that not only provides scratch resistance, but also decreases surface friction, reducing water spots.
POOL PURIFICATION - Space technology designed to sterilize water on long-duration spacecraft applied to swimming pool purification led to a system that uses two silver-copper alloy electrodes that generate silver and copper ions when an electric current passes through them to kill bacteria and algae without chemicals.
RIBBED SWIMSUIT - NASA-developed riblets applied to competition swimsuits resulted in flume testing of 10 to 15 percent faster speeds than any other world class swim-suit due to the small, barely visible grooves that reduce friction and aerodynamic drag by modifying the turbulent airflow next to the skin.
GOLF BALL AERODYNAMICS - A recently designed golf ball, which has 500 dimples arranged in a pattern of 60 spherical triangles, employs NASA aerodynamics technology to create a more symmetrical ball surface, sustaining initial velocity longer and producing a more stable ball flight for better accuracy and distance.
PORTABLE COOLERS/WARMERS - Based on a NASA-inspired space cooling system employing thermoelectric technology, the portable cooler/warmer plugs into the cigarette lighters of autos, recreational vehicles, boats, or motel outlets. Utilizes one or two miniaturized modules delivering the cooling power of a 10-pound block of ice and the heating power of up to 125 degrees Fahrenheit.
SPORTS TRAINING - Space-developed cardio-muscular conditioner helps athletes increase muscular strength and cardiovascular fitness through kinetic exercise.
ATHLETIC SHOES - Moon Boot material encapsulated in running shoe midsoles improve shock absorption and provides superior stability and motion control.
Here are many others paid for by the government research dollars - http://www.thespaceplace.com/nasa/spinoffs.html
And, that's just NASA.
Stop being so small minded as if only business can improve our lives ... as usual, it's the cooperation of both along with academics that pushes the engine of innovation and job creation. Not tax cuts for the rich - show me anywhere that simple tax cuts resulted in huge economic progress. They don't. Period.
sane person| 1.29.11 @ 11:53AM
Purple guy:
These are all good examples, but as a technologist, these are only the tip of the iceberg. Essentially all new drugs are developed using NIH funding at leading research institutions.
Moreover, Internet, cell phone, satellite, etc. communication technologies were all developed using Govt funding.
Integrated circuits and photonics, as well as most early software developments (operating systems, AI, speech recognition, etc). were created under Govt contracts.
It is quite amazing how much of the technologies were take for granted today were created by Govt funding.
Unfortunately, as you and I can both see from the comments at this site, this is not well know in our society.
missbosslady| 1.29.11 @ 2:28PM
So, let me sum up here for ya purpleguy.
Without the government taking the lead, we humans would just stand around without the inclination to improve our lives.
Hmmm, your assessment of mankind is quite dim and limited.
I'm confindent that you are absolutely incorrect.
sane person| 1.29.11 @ 9:01PM
Missbosslady, since you posted this immediately after my posting, I presume that you intended your comments at least partly towards me and therefore I will take the liberty of replying.
I never said that the Govt was responsible for all new technologies in our lives - my point was that there are technologies, so new, so disruptive and so radical, that companies would never support them or afford to develop them. Often, it is these most radical of technologies that have the most impact on our society (ie creative destruction).
And fortunately for all of us, the Govt has supported and matured these technologies, which in many cases lead to new technologies that improve our lives, enable new companies to form, create new high-paying jobs and wealth and security for our society. This is a fact and well known in the technology, high-tech business, and economics communities.
When I hear people say that the Govt did nothing to develop the Internet, or develop new drugs, etc., this is a complete untruth and tells me that the person saying this is not informed about how technology in our country is developed.
Moreover, when I hear people say: "lets cut all support for everything including science and technology!" I think it wise to caution these people, that if you get your way, you may see the US fall behind technologically and economically. Furthermore, we need technology and money to be able to defend ourselves, so there is a direct relationship between the US being at the leading edge of technology and having the strongest military in the world.
The development of technology is something I know something about. I was born and raised on a dairy farm, but was able to go to MIT and eventually get a PhD in EE and CS. I have worked on technology my whole life and made my first Million $ before 25 and I have made many times that since. In my work, I frequently propose new technology ideas to the Govt and sometimes get funded by the Govt via Grants, Contracts, etc. to develop my technological ideas. Once developed, I then patent and license my ideas (inventions) to companies (the Govt gets a royalty-free license if they want). This is a great country where people like me (and there are many of us), create new technologies, jobs and companies at a frequent basis. You may ask: "why don't you go to private businesses to get your ideas funded?"
The answer is that if I get Govt money, the idea is mine and I get the profits from it. If I go to a company, I get a small portion of the profits. People like me can invent anywhere, but most of stay in the US for the reason that we can maximally benefit from our brains in this country. Importantly, Govt funding is a critical part of this equation for reasons provided above.
Oldefarte| 1.29.11 @ 11:53AM
All are worthless products, and NASA is the largest waste of taxpayers' taxed money in my entire lifetime [thanks to the Camelot crowd of liberal bafoons in the 1960's]. Any intelligent scientist will tell you that manned space travel is a pure waste of money and time, since the same and additional scientific knowledge could be less expensively gained through unmanned space flights deploying satelites. You're a DOOFUS!!!!!
sane person| 1.29.11 @ 12:01PM
Oldefarte (what a name!):
Anyway, let me ask you a question. Since NASA was responsible for development of rocket technology dating back to the 1950's, are you saying that you wish that the US did not invent and lead the world in our ability to launch heavy payloads into orbit?
The reason I ask is that if you say "no," then I would say that you are unpatriotic since this rocket technology developed by NASA allowed us to catch up with the Russians in the space race and develop ICBMs to win the cold war as well as keep peace in the world since WWII.
Please do a little research and think about it before calling others a "DOOFUS."
Oldefarte| 1.30.11 @ 3:08PM
Sane: Any scientist will gladly inform you that the science/technology gained from space travel could have been easily obtained LESS EXPENSIVELY BY UNMANNED ROCKET/SATELLITE LAUNCHES instead of MANNED ones. Get it? Less costly to taxpayers, who have been bilked out of $trillions in governmental funding of NASA all because of JFK's Camelot loonacy and pissing match with Kruschev [hey, ever heard of the Pay of Pigs invasion also?]. Oh, and also, the astronauts that dies from space rocket explosions would have been alive today, if intelligent space exploration would have been initiated by these corrupt politicians. What have we obtained from our moon landing----a bunch of GD rocks from outer space that are as worthless as pet rocks!!!!!!!!!!
sane person| 1.30.11 @ 4:23PM
Oldefarte,
You are not correct in your statements that "any scientist will gladly inform you that the science/technology gained from space travel could have been easily obtained LESS EXPENSIVELY BY UNMANNED ROCKET/SATELLITE LAUNCHES."
Point of fact; I am a scientist (I do not work for the Govt by the way - I run my own company).
Moreover, I work with a large number of scientists and I have never heard such a comment applied in a general way to space exploration (Note: I and others have criticized NASA on occasion for their recent lack of scientific inspiration & accomplishment).
But, you fail to address what I think is the most important point in my comment and that relates to the extremely important role that NASA had in developing rocket systems capable of launching heavy payloads into orbit. These rocket were needed for manned space travel. But these systems also allowed the US to catch up and bypass the USSR in the space race and develop ICBM technology that eventually allowed us to win the cold war.
These rockets systems were extremely expensive to develop (BTW, your $Trillions number is way too high) and given their cost, could not have been developed under so-called "black program money."
So while you may think that you only got some moon rocks with your tax money, what you actually bought was military superiority over the USSR AND all of resultant important technologies.
What technologies am I talking about? Well in the interest of space (no pun intended), I will only mention one. In the early years of the space program most of the electrical systems were discrete transistors that were soldered onto printed circuit boards. You have probably heard stories about these once high-tech electronic system that now appear like they came from the stone age. Well, NASA and the Air Force put tremendous levels of money into developing integrated circuit (IC) technology for the reasons that they needed more computational power, but also needed smaller size and lower weight (i.e., payloads really matter in space).
These investments in IC technology directly lead to the semiconductor, computer and electronics industries of today.
Frankly, I feel blessed that we live in a country that can make these kinds of investments not only to protect our security but also to propel our economy.
Think what might have happened if we did not make these investments. We probably would not be having this discussion (since the Internet would not exist) and our standard of living would likely have been far lower. Perhaps more importantly, we may have become slaves to the USSR system.
Then you would have something to complain about!
Jack London| 1.30.11 @ 4:50PM
Well said (and your other comments). But you're trying to set out facts to people who prefer to believe in lies, because it fits their bunker mentality.
sane person| 1.30.11 @ 7:01PM
Thanks....
There is a belief among some that anything and everything that the Govt does is inherently bad and I do not believe that this is true (which is not to say that I believe everything Govt does is good either).
Moreover, some with this "Govt is bad" belief system seem to desire that our country transform into a system of Govt whereby Federal power is enormously curtailed.
While that may seem romantic to some and even justified by a few so-called historians (those who promote the argument that the founding fathers wanted a weaker central Govt and more power held by the States, which is not true), I do not think this would benefit the average citizen.
Specifically, countries with weak central Govts have always had: a weak military making them unable to project power, weak economies making income inequality higher, and generally lower standards of living. There are numerous examples today and throughout history (most countries in latin america are a good example).
The simple fact is that we all benefit tremendously from our strong Federal Govt. Importantly, the power of this system is dependent on a tax rate that supports these large expenditures.
Having said that, I very much want to see the US reduce the deficients since I think the size of the current deficients potentially weaken our economy since we are required to finance our expenditures (both public and private) by borrowing from Asia. Our citizens need to spend less and save more and allow those savings to go into economic investments that will allow jobs to be created and our GNP to increase.
Rational people can debate where to cut the deficients. However, there are only a few really big drivers in the Federal budget - namely, Social Security, Medicare, Interest on Debt and the DoD. The rest of the expenditures combined are only around 10% of the total. Moreover, the projected increases in the first three over the next 2 decades are striking.
I am distressed when I see politicians from both parties say they wish to reduce the deficient, but when pushed about what they will cut - they merely dance and dance around the question without giving any specifics.
In my opinion a few things need to happen at the national level. Taxes will have go up for the top 5% to 10% (this will bring in more money to the Govt and reduce the deficient). Second, social security and medicare eligibility ages will increase and these programs will have to become needs tested (this will reduce the outflow of money). Third, we must make investments in R&D and stimulate high-tech growth companies (this will cost money, but will allow money to come back to the Govt as some of these companies prosper).
I do not believe that any rational person would want to throw out our system if they understood how fortunate we are in this country as well as what the alternatively would look like, but I very much fear that is where we are heading.
Kingofthenet| 1.29.11 @ 4:57PM
When Republicans say 'Free markets' this is what they mean. They want to be FREE to sell dangerous products with no accountability. They want to be FREE to pollute our air and water and land and 'walk' away without footing the cleanup bill. They want to be FREE to abuse workers in unsafe conditions for little pay. They want to employ CHILDREN in their factories and NOT even have to pay them a minimum wage. They want to be FREE to create TOXIC ASSETS on Wall Street, that this time will DESTROY the nations banking System. They want to be FREE to be Robber barons with Private armies to break up organized labor.Can you SMELL the FREEDOM, Smells like CRAP to me...
missbosslady| 1.29.11 @ 5:59PM
Congratulations!
Kingofthenet, you win the prize for the single most idiotic post on this thread.
Good on ya!
Seriously, it's clear the subject matter is way over your head.
Liberal Reader| 1.30.11 @ 11:41AM
Actually, lady, I'd like to hear how you would REPLY to king's post.
I think he may have reached a little too far, but he made several claims that are refutable -- i.e. you could take him to task by clarifying Republican values.
Are Republicans against the EPA or not? I'm confused. Newt Gingritch says it should be abolished, ceding its functions to the states.
But what happens when pollution in one state affects the health, farms, businesses, and communities in another state? If you think this is a rare phenomenon, you're mistaken. It happens all the time.
So what would you be for?
As for Wall St. .... You might say that the resent report on the financial meltdown was pretty tough on Clinton as well as Bush, but that prompts the question:
Given that Clinton's role in the financial meltdown has much to do with his deregulation of these markets, allowing companies to sell trillions -- with a T -- in toxic assets, what do the Republicans suggest we do to avert another disaster. The housing market lost over 10 trillion dollars in VALUE in fewer than three weeks in September 08, wreaking havoc on our economy and the world's. Millions of people lost their jobs, sending tax receipts into the ditch -- the single largest single contribution to the current deficit. Is this something you'd like to see happen or not?
It seems to me this fellow's post gave you the opportunity to make your case. Instead of assuming the subject matter is over his head, why not explain something to him. If he misses it, someone else might not.
Oldefarte| 1.30.11 @ 3:20PM
LR: Deregulation did not cause the housing/financial/banking crisis of today. Research the CRA of 1977 that began the process of governmental assault upon banking/insurance etc in the form of AFFORDABLE HOUSING. Translation, BUY A HOUSE/PROPERTY THAT YOU CANNOT FINANCIALLY AFFOD TO P-A-Y F-O-R and years later, force the taxpayers to do so through forclosures of same by bankruptcy. ARM's, creative financiang, etc were the financials' only profitable answer to this CRA, since the government was forcing them to grant mortgages to financially inept borrowers that they knew would never be able to fully pay for their loans over the entire length of the mortgages. Quit blaming STUPIDLY the financial industry for trying to make money from arbitrary governmental [unprofitable] policies, and instead rightfully blame THE LIBERAL DEMOCRATIC PARTY, the CRA of 1977, the government's takeover of the GRE's in order to continue this housing welfare, HUD, etc!!!!!!!!!!
Jack London| 1.30.11 @ 4:58PM
You've been swallowing too much Internet trash - by far the most dangerous subprime lending came from lenders outside of CRA. In fact the CRA has been pretty much a model of low-income lending.
Read this article and get yourself some proper learning:
http://www.prospect.org/cs/art.....ime_crisis
Osamas Pajamas| 1.31.11 @ 1:30AM
"Liberal" Reader [and probably you're a statist and not a liberal] --- the toxic assets to which you refer were created by banks being ordered to follow the toxic lending rules imposed by Democrats and fake [RINO] Republicans --- but mostly by Democrats.
Liberal Reader| 1.29.11 @ 9:45PM
Whenever people use the word "statism" I stop listening.
It's one of those words -- not unlike "activism" -- that anyone can lob at anyone else because it's empty of content.
Read Orwell. Be precise.
Oldefarte| 1.30.11 @ 3:22PM
Read Orwell for fantasy/entertainment, but read factual news for TRUTH!!!!!!!!
Osamas Pajamas| 1.31.11 @ 1:24AM
Statists hate being called "statists" --- they prefer to reject "labels" --- the better to disguise historical parallels between their current authoritarian or totalitarian goals and the similar and wellknown antecedents --- the Nazis, fascists, socialists, and commies. As to the injunction "Read Orwell," he was a good start, but there were others who better illustrated the principles of negative utopias or dystopias --- Zamyatin "We," Rand "Anthem," We the Living," "The Fountainhead," and "Atlas Shrugged," Huxley "Brave New World," and Levin "This Perfect Day." And of course Solzhenitsyn's nonfiction and deadly exposure of the communist state and its metastacized Gulag Archipelago. Statism is rejected as a label by its adherents not because it is empty of content but because it is full of content which they would greatly prefer not to disclose, namely the intent to subject all human actions for approval by the state --- the cancellation of individual liberty by the substitution of collectivism for individualism.
Osamas Pajamas| 1.30.11 @ 5:02PM
What this country needs is a truly LIBERAL president and congress and judiciary! And I forgive the reader for suspecting that this must be some kind of bad joke!
But the Democrats believe in "statism" --- not "liberalism."
They benefit from the imprecise American political terminology ---- we say "the government" here in the USA ---- rather than "the state." And that's a dangerous problem. Famous brands of statism in recent centuries have been Nazism, socialism, fascism, communism, and welfare statism ---- this last is sort of a mix of fascism and socialism.
Liberalism, on the other hand, is a political philosophy of small, cheap government ---- it is a constabulary ---- and the job of a liberal government is to enforce human rights within its own jurisdiction. I speak of the unalienable and perfectly-natural and universally-valid human rights of life, liberty, private property, and the pursuit of personal happiness.
The first article of private property is "the self" and all other rights are derivatives of and flow from these cardinal rights. These rights ---- The Rights of Man ---- are the gift of nature or of nature's god ---- and they belong to all human beings, everywhere.
Show me a Democrat who subscribes to all of the above, without qualifications or weasel words. The words "liberal" and "liberalism" were hijacked by the Democrats and socialists and fascists long ago ---- and it was the mistake of conservatives and libertarians to let them get away with it.
It is long past time that liberalism be reclaimed, defined, and explained by its rightful owners ---- by the champions of freedom, i.e.: not by Democrats.
Well, how about "progressivism?" Whuzzat?! “Cancer” is “progressive,” too. Isn't “progressivism” just another statist cancer? It chews you up, piece by piece, in the name of Da Peepul? Eat Da Rich? Moral cannibalism, anyone?
Friends of freedom! Friends of peace-through-strength! And friends of prosperity! Declare yourselves to be "liberals," then ---- and kick over the bloody coffee tables --- and overthrow and trounce the Democrats in 2012!
rdman| 1.30.11 @ 7:01PM
I LMAO this weekend watching the comedy movie “One Two Three” made in 1961. James Cagney starred as a high level Coca Cola executive based in West Berlin, and a young Horst Buchholz played a radical, indoctrinated East German Communist.
In this 1961 movie, Buchholz uses the very same lame language that we hear in 2011 from the leftist lame brains on this thread and elsewhere… 50 years of redundant, tiresome and boring, irrelevant, useless, failed propaganda.
As the movie unfolds, Buchholz’s character is transformed from a frothing, hysterical, destitute Communist to a Capitalist Coca Cola bottle plant manager in West Berlin.
Hilarious with its under laying message… (BTW, whatever it happen to the glorious People’s Republic of East Germany???)
Marc Jeric| 1.30.11 @ 11:38PM
Onward with communism!
In his State of the Union address Abu Hussein al-Mombassa (or wherever in Kenya that marxist Muslim was born) said that he wanted to "invest" (read spend) on the following;
1) Highways; the federal government already taxes the gasoline at 17 cents (or is it 27 cents) already per gallon for the so-called highway fund; it seems that this fund is now largely spent on welfare;
2) High-speed trains; Americans prefer their personal cars for these reasons: a) they go door to door; b) they are ready at any time 24/7/355; they are never on strike; trains do none of that.
3) Education; that means more money to teachers unions which in 45 years have brought our education from the first in the world to the level of Zimbabwe, and the costs have tripled in real terms.
4) Green energy; that means wind and solar power. We have been working on these the past 50 years without success. They are super-expensive, unreliable, and environmentally destructive. No imagination can defeat the laws of thermodynamics. They also come from the sun's activities - the sun which is a continuous uncontrolled hydrogen bomb explosion. I was happy that he skipped the mention of ethanol - since that boondoggle pushed by taxpayers' subsidies has proven expensive, increases oil imports and food prices, and is destructive of environment.
5) Electric cars; he did not specify where the electric power would come from - wind, solar?
All in all, I for one was unimpressed. And - the bum made no mention of nuclear electricity - the safest industrial installations in history of the industrial age!
Francis Forrester| 2.5.11 @ 12:47PM
It's encouraging that you were able to follow the SOTUS. What you seem to be deficient in is your ability to know know or imagine the cost of nuclear, the construction time to bring it online, storage of spent fuels and other environmental and security impact. Did I mention the cost of a single nuclear plant? Comparing that with innovative technologies in which China took American technology and selling back to us in the form of RENEWABLE energy.
America has the opportunity to take the lead again. The future is singing a tune which is renewable energy. Renewable energy will bring bring jobs, reduce reliance on foreign oil, bring in jobs and America will be at the forefront of exporting everything again rather than buy everything from China. Had this government not imposed tariff on renewable energy imports, Sun Solar will continue to export solar panels to the U. S. Now, they have their biggest overseas plant in Nevada. I hope you get it.
Francis Forrester| 2.5.11 @ 12:22PM
Hello Andrew:
Bravo, you have just got yourself an international icon status for bashing Michelle Obama for her comment on North Carolina. The irony here is that you extracted the barbeque part of what the First Lady's comment political gain, just like what Sarah Palin did to her even though, Ms. Palin herself once quote her dad advocating healthy eating.
For all the past glories of the once Great Britain, their class system is of no significance to Americans. If you care to open your eyes a little wider, the invitees for the April wedding is a stark departure of that same tradition you seem to praise, and I'd rather eulogize. Do you have any idea who else is invited this time? So, there is no worry about American ideals and ways in 2011. I can assure you, the young royals embrace America, the President included. And that is enough.
weddingdress | 7.1.11 @ 12:46AM
All are worthless products, and NASA is the largest waste of taxpayers' taxed money in my entire lifetime [thanks to the Camelot crowd of liberal bafoons in the 1960's]. Any intelligent scientist will tell you that manned space travel is a pure waste of money and time, since the same and additional scientific knowledge could be less expensively gained through unmanned space flights deploying satelites. You're a DOOFUS!!!!!
Adidas | 8.11.11 @ 4:31AM
is good
العاب | 4.11.12 @ 3:18PM
Obama looked weak at best. His speech wouldn't even warm a cup of tea