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Political Hay
The Triumph of Tax-and-Spend Liberalism
That’s the upshot of bipartisanship.
The resolution to the fiscal cliff crisis was fittingly perverse, containing the very prodigal spending and denial of looming deficits that caused it. Washington never fails to use a crisis to compound the underlying elements of the crisis.
This is what passes for bipartisanship in a demagogic age. Pols calculate that the full effects of a crisis won’t be felt until they’re safely out of office. So they don’t mind making it worse while pretending to solve it.
Obama’s easy triumph — he only had to shave a few days off his Hawaii vacation — illustrates that tax-and-spend liberalism has become the norm and only “unrealistic” Republicans now dissent from it. For all the blather about philosophical polarization, no real debate occurred, as the media whittled it down to a fatuous lesser-of-two-evils choice: bad liberal idea A versus bad liberal idea B. Either accept one of the bad ideas or catastrophe will result.
Scaring Republicans into bad policy through such hectoring is the left’s forte and Republicans simply don’t have the courage or conviction to call the left’s bluff. Both America’s economy and politics look European at this point, as the debate narrows down to two parties quibbling over the size of a crumbling nation’s tax hikes and spending increases, not whether they should occur. A Rand Paul may stand up and point out the obvious — that the catastrophe has already arrived and that such negotiations amount to rearranging deck chairs on the Titanic—but he is quickly drowned out by more “balanced” GOP voices.
Bad policy is good politics and good policy is bad politics — that’s the reigning mindset of establishment Republicans. But it is very myopic. Parties that seek to retain power at the expense of principle usually end up with neither. And in the meantime they damage the country by colluding in the errors of their opponents.
The media constantly propagandizes Americans in the idea that the absence of bipartisanship and compromise lie at the root of crises when the truth is that bipartisanship and compromise drive them. It is the bipartisan cooperation in a corrupt conception of the federal government that explains the mushrooming debt. The middle distance between two bad ideas is still a bad idea and thus is never a “compromise” that benefits the country.
This bipartisan herd was led appropriately enough by the buffoonish Joe Biden, whose smug smile on Tuesday night captured the emptiness and delusion of American politics. The sales pitch for the bill was a lie on every level. Instead of erasing debt, it adds trillions to it over a decade, according to the Congressional Budget Office. Instead of encouraging economic growth, it punishes job creation and investment. Instead of ending congressional boondoggles, it became an occasion to indulge them.
No more Solyndras, vowed Republicans during the presidential campaign. But Boehner-led Republicans just voted for a bill that contains billions of dollars in subsidies for the “renewable-energy” industry.
And so much for their vow never to pass hastily assembled bills stitched together by lobbyists. Like Nancy Pelosi, they believe in passing a bill to find out what is in it. Plenty of pork, as it turns out, according to the Washington Post: “The owners of auto-racing tracks got one that will cost $78 million. A $1 million break will help coal-mining operations on Indian lands. Another oddball provision dealt with excise taxes on imported rum, which the U.S. government mainly funnels to the territorial governments of Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.”
So once again a problem caused by frivolous spending is “solved” by more of it. Obama’s euphemism for pork is “investment,” which he sternly promised to protect in his Tuesday speech. He feels cramped by the debt ceiling and demanded that Republicans raise it without impinging upon his new spending plans. He is investing in everything from wind farms to electric cars to now even electric scooters with two or three wheels, according to the Post.
The bipartisan herd also made sure to help the dairy industry by continuing milk and cheese subsidies. Nor did they forget the filmmakers of Hollywood, who will receive subsidies for making movies in the U.S.
What a sham. Last year Wolf Blitzer asked Republican presidential candidates during a debate if they would accept one dollar in tax increases in exchange for ten dollars in spending cuts. He asked the wrong question. It turns out that the GOP will accept almost no spending cuts for billions in new taxes.
About the Author
George Neumayr, a contributing editor to The American Spectator, is co-author, with Phyllis Schlafly, of the new book, No Higher Power: Obama’s War on Religious Freedom.
Letter to the Editor View all comments (111) | Leave a comment
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Bill Hussein O'Stalin| 1.3.13 @ 6:34AM
You're right on one level. The Republicans should have fought harder against the corrupt green energy provisions.
But you are wrong on another level. The political level.
If 99% of the public saw their taxes go up the Republicans would have been bought down and hard in the next election.
In politics there is also practicality.
It's time to stop beating them down for what was lost and to applaud them for what they accomplished.
Getting rid of the AMT was an incredible feat. That alone was praise worthy.
However, they made the Bush Tax cuts permanent for 99% of America. Now, they should go out and point it out. It was a huge win for the public.
You can't get everything you want in the political environment created by our Constitution and if you want purity in politics you won't have many backers.
Aristocat| 1.3.13 @ 6:42AM
Republicans voted against the bill in the House:
172-51...Only 16 Democrats voted against it...That tells you all you need to know...Boehner needs to go.
Jack in Wi| 1.3.13 @ 8:01AM
Amen: Aristocrat and Ryan and Cantor right with him. We don't need Cantor to replace Boehner. He is a big part of the problem, not the solution. The country and party have been laid low by not standing up for real conservative principles. That and support for endless warmongering has destroyed our chances for the future. The Republican elites only care about a couple of things, money and power for themselves.
fmm| 1.3.13 @ 9:56AM
You must be drinking Kool Aid spiked with rum if you support what was done.
This was definitely not a tax win for the public due to the payroll tax exemption expiring while keeping the Bush rates. The average tax hike on the middle class will be about $1600. The tax rates should have been reduced at all levels. Or better yet, replacing the current tax code with the AMT (which is a flat tax) at a rational level of taxation, say 17%, would actually have had a tremendous positive effect on our economy.
Unless the pols get out of the box on their approach to spending and the economy, there will be no progress made on our fiscal problems.
TLP| 1.3.13 @ 10:33AM
Hello?
Testing 1, 2, 3. Testing. Can you hear me?
Check. Check 5. Check check, check check.
Am I on?
Like Chevy Chase said in Christmas Vacation: Merry Christmas, Holy S***.
I don't think that I really ever grasped the Comradery of the people on this site whom I consider my friends, or how badly I needed to get back on the air so they'd stop Emailing me. (just kidding)
I would have been back sooner, but the Kid in the AmSpec Control Room, apparently hit the wrong button, yesterday, but now that's all been fixed. (is marjuana legal where TAS has its office? all the letters are lower cased because I'm whispering. I don't wanna get "Dave's not here" in trouble).
Then again, you've got your Gary B's, your Quarter Masters, your Aristocats, and your Old Bag ne'er do wells, up in Canada, who, obviously never read the "Final Exit" Book that I so graciously sent her. I was gonna send her a Hundred Bucks, because I know that she's going through a rough spell. But her ignominious "Nuts to TLP" put the "Nuts to that Hundred Bucks". And by the way....HOCKEY SUCKS!
I'm thinking about an Impromptu Contest at Bowman's barren wasteland of a Story, tomorrow. It'll be about Status Quo, Stubbornness, and Tight Sphincters.
Now, I just need some Prizes.
Drunken Sailor| 1.3.13 @ 11:03AM
I wouls suggest a box set of Boehners principles but I think it would be almost as small as a history book of French victorys.
Welcome back!
Al Adab| 1.3.13 @ 11:27AM
T:
Tu es aqui. You have had a lot of popular support over the last few days. Whatever the actual course of events, welcome back.
Steve88| 1.3.13 @ 12:33PM
TLP
T is for Trashy
L is for Lewd
P is for Profane
All descriptions are Right Wing Superlatives. Keep on spewing the garbage, TLP. Your fans love it when you are in gross-out mode.
TLP| 1.3.13 @ 2:48PM
That's all very nice.
But don't you think that your time would be better spent Smearing Vaseline on your same sex lover, and putting a condom on your Dog?
Of course you do.
Adeline| 1.3.13 @ 3:28PM
Steve 88,
There are liberals who come to this X-rated sewer just to see what the right-wing "Christians" are up to.
They never fail to live up to their reputations as foulmouthed, uncouth vulgarians (TLP e.g.).
Anyway, there's a college--either Duke or Emory, I've forgotten--where an analysis of the responders to this blog is being conducted. I wonder what the study will conclude about TLP and his ilk and their rancid rants.
You right-wing "Christians" rant on. Rant on!
Drunken Sailor| 1.3.13 @ 4:53PM
Anna,
Don't you have a femist rally or something to go to?
Warrior| 1.3.13 @ 5:11PM
Adeline: Typical liberal blather. I'm conducting an analysis on whether or not Nancy Pelosi is actually a preserved corpse (I know you were thinking like your dear leader and wanted it spelled corps) and whether or not any left wing deviate would be willing to discuss issues on merit instead of liberal talking points and progressive prattle. Rant on you occupying twit, rant on.
SUBVET| 1.3.13 @ 5:57PM
Adeline..........I looked up your name on the web and the word "liberal" came up = moochers electing looters to steal from producers.
Von Mises Jr| 1.3.13 @ 12:33PM
Welcome back, TLP. You are better than perhaps any of the writers at TAS save Dr. Sowell, and I could have read him at Jewish World Review if necessary.
SUBVET| 1.3.13 @ 12:47PM
Laus Deo..........Tim your back.
You have your chance now appleby........what do you say ?
TLP| 1.3.13 @ 2:49PM
I've already spoken to her.
TLP| 1.3.13 @ 2:52PM
I gotta tell ya, Mises.
That you would say that about me, is an Honour.
Thank You.
Warrior| 1.3.13 @ 12:58PM
How about a CD of Lancelot Link's Evolution Revolutions Greatest Hits for the next prize or a can of Spam to honor the ability for another $3 million tax payer funded vacation to occur. Perhaps in honour of our Canadien friends, a Mason jar full of your manufactured yellow snow.
TLP| 1.3.13 @ 2:51PM
Contest, tomorrow, at Mr. Bowman's house.
Be there, or be Lancelot Link.
Goldwater Girl| 1.3.13 @ 1:47PM
Welcome Back TLP! The TAS comments section without you, was like being on vacation with an alcohol probibition. I see that you haven't learned much from your time in the corner, and for that, we are all grateful. Well, actually, not all of us. Just all of us except Steve88, erecto-cat, Gary B, and the eternally depressed Appleby. Apple, maybe you are suffering from lack of sunshine. I've heard that causes depression for some folks. I suggest a move to a deep south red state, like uh, Texas!
Anyway, we are all relieved that we still have 1st amendment rights, at least for now.
TLP| 1.3.13 @ 2:55PM
Thank You, Goldwater Girl.
Contest, tomorrow, at Mr. Bowman's House.
Figure it out.
CJW| 1.3.13 @ 2:21PM
Welcome back, Papillon.
TLP| 1.3.13 @ 2:56PM
Contest, tomorrow, at Me. Bowman's House.
And, thanks.
Joellen| 1.3.13 @ 3:27PM
Papillon - a great book made into a great movie because of the late great Steve McQueen!
And speaking of those who have the courage to stand true to form, Yeehaw TLP IS BACK and now we get down to business and even have some fun in this unfortunately not so fun times, once again.
So contest tomorrow - Lord willing I'll be there!
Joellen| 1.3.13 @ 3:28PM
Dont you know I meant to say in "these". I guess TLP is back - my spelling & grammar check is off once again!
Purp| 1.3.13 @ 1:22PM
Let's worry about the country for a change.
The markets shot up 300 pts on this passage and jobs created in December were 215,000 and over.
Your side lost, let the other side do what they deem necessary and we'll see. We've tried it your way for 30 years and here we are. How's that working out for ya?
The economy is poised to grow if the House would shut up and just go along to help the country now.
Drunken Sailor| 1.3.13 @ 1:47PM
Sure it is. Now explain to me again why the S&P and Moody's are still telling us our credit status could be downgraded as we have not addressed our spending.
Purp| 1.3.13 @ 2:15PM
Because that isn't what they said - they said if there is another threat of default- could beget a downgrade.
http://www.zerohedge.com/news/.....-imf-piles
Republicans did it last time, for they care more about getting their own way than they are concerned for the country or the world economy for that matter. They are petulant, irresponsible children that need to be removed permanently from power.
Tell me you're not that ignorant you didn't know this?
Drunken Sailor| 1.3.13 @ 2:44PM
Tell me your not ignorant and actually read these two passages.
"On the other hand, lack of further deficit reduction measures could affect the rating negatively. Notably, yesterday's package does not address the federal government's statutory debt limit, which was reached on December 31. The need to raise the debt limit may affect the outcome of future budget negotiations."
"a preliminary calculation by Moody's shows that the ratio of government debt to GDP would peak at about 80% in 2014 and then remain in the upper 70 percent range for the remaining years of the coming decade. Stabilization at this level would leave the government less able to deal with future pressures from entitlement spending or from unforeseen shocks. Thus, further measures that bring about a downward debt trajectory over the medium term are likely to be needed to support the Aaa rating."
I'll translate that for you, reduced spending and the growth of our economy. The first Obama is against and the second is highly unlikely according to most economist.
Nice try Buttercup.
TLP| 1.3.13 @ 2:58PM
He's not Ignorant.
He's just Stupid.
Contest, tomorrow, at Mr. Bowman's House.
Purp| 1.4.13 @ 4:26AM
Typical right wing move to cherry pick what you like and leave out the rest.
Nevertheless, reduced spending = less growth you ignoramus.
Where do you think the spending goes? In the sewer? It goes into paychecks and business bank accounts to pay for goods and services you twit. Take it away, and you have less growth, you fool. Let me make it clear for you, so a 9 yr old can understand it.
We only have a spending problem because we have a revenue problem. Let's say you had a job that paid for all your expenses and then some (Clinton's economy and government) and then you took a job making less revenue (Bush's economy and government) but kept the same expenses or increased them even (wars) - you'd have a spending problem wouldn't you? But it's only because you make less money now.
Now, you get fired, have your house foreclosed on, your car dies and you have a long-term illness (the Bush Economy handed over to Obama) ... what would happen to your finances, especially if your wife (the Republicans in Congress) won't help you get on your feet?
It's unbelievable that you even went to school. It's simple math.
Expenses are too high OR Revenue is too low. But if you cut expenses only:
Who's house you wanna sell? Who's social security check you wanna stop? Where do we cut defense? Who goes hungry? Who dies without care? Who's kid has to drop out of school? What bridge do we let fall? What laws do we not enforce? What house is left to burn down?
Drunken Sailor| 1.4.13 @ 9:15AM
Your simple minded logic is almost as funny as your junior high taunts. You even note that there was a spending problem and then ignore what most business and people do at that point. They cut expenses.
Lets take your business that you supposedly own for example. If your cost go up do you raise the price of your goods beyond what the market will accept or do you attempt to lower your expenses?
Most business would first try to lower expense as not to lose business to their competition. Goverment has no competition so they just keep spending like my namesake and want to keep raising taxes. But then again being a successful business man like you claim you already knew that didn't you? You just want a goverment big enough to handle all of life's unpleasantries and absolve you from any misfortune that comes your way. Heaven forbid, you at least attempt to fix your problems yourself.
Did you even graduate?
Stan Redmond| 1.4.13 @ 2:29PM
You mean there's not one single thing the government can cut? We can't cut farm subsidies? We can't cut the useless alphabet programs that are nothing more than make work programs for political science majors?
Speaking of cherry picking just re-read your last paragraph. There is not one single thing this poor government, that is so so effecient, can cut. Not one possible thing because if it did people would die, bridges would fall, houses would burn...
By the way. Does your Fortune 10 company and your high tech multi million dollar company take any actions to minimize your taxes?
Stan Redmond| 1.5.13 @ 2:37PM
"Nevertheless, reduced spending = less growth you ignoramus."
You're all over the place. Bush spent more money than any president before him and he alone crashed the economy with too much spending. NOW, Obama has quadrupled Bush's wildest dream when it comes to spending and suddenly Bush's spending is bad but Obama's good?
Stan Redmond| 1.4.13 @ 3:00PM
you've tried it our way for 30 years? If I recall Bill Clinton's presidency ended in Jan 2001 and there was a recession when Bush took the oath. The democrats held the Senate in 2007 then a super majority for Obama's first 2 years. You do realize your lord and saviour Obama [pbuh] has been president for 4 years now and two of those were with a super majority?
Bush was a reckless spender yet you claim the way you grow the economy is by government spending. Why is spending under Obama so much better than Bush's spending.
By the way does your fortune 10 company and high tech multi million dollar firm take any actions to minimize your tax bills?
spike59| 1.3.13 @ 6:39AM
"It's time to stop beating them down for what was lost and to applaud them for what they accomplished."
----------------------------------------------------
what they've accomplished is a guarantee that when the economy continues to slide, they WILL be blamed
Bill Hussein O'Stalin| 1.3.13 @ 7:14AM
The economy is not sliding. When it does it will be easy to make the connection between lost jobs and Obamacare.
In the meantime it was a major accomplishment which will prove it's worth in the coming months.
Drunken Sailor| 1.3.13 @ 11:04AM
Bill, I am doubtful of your claims, while at the same time, I hope you are right.
spike59| 1.3.13 @ 11:11AM
The economy is not sliding.
======================
if you truly believe that, you're not paying attention
TLP| 1.3.13 @ 12:32PM
He's not paying attention.
It's definately Sliding, soon to be in Freefall.
Bill Hussein O'Stalin| 1.3.13 @ 2:34PM
I've been away awhile voluntarily. Apparently you've been away also. Welcome back.
The economy is not going into free-fall. It's just the opposite.
2014 will be questionable with all the new taxes and regulations. I personally don't think that will be a good year but the American economy has
survived everything thrown at it.
Be a believer.
TLP| 1.3.13 @ 3:00PM
I am a believer.
I'm also a believer in MATH.
And, thank you for your kind words.
Happy New Year BHO.
Purp| 1.3.13 @ 2:16PM
Spike - you are right, they are and will be blamed. They are just plain ignorant of facts.
Jack of Spades| 1.3.13 @ 6:43AM
You can't get everything you want, but you have to get what you need. The Dems get what they've been calling for, a raise. of taxes on "the rich." We get spending cuts so puny that it's charitable to call them token cuts. In other words, we got crumbs.
Sorry, BHOS, but you've bought into the "bad policy is good politics " argument.
Bill Hussein O'Stalin| 1.3.13 @ 7:06AM
The spending side of the equation is far from over. That tax bill contained a lot of beauty in it. There's nothing to complain about unless you're a purist.
If you're a purist you're just as bad as the left because there is no compromise that's meaningful.
I think the Republicans got a big win here.
One thing is for sure. They've never erected a statute to a critic.
Jack London| 1.3.13 @ 7:19AM
"I think the Republicans got a big win here."
I think so too. Can't see what all this whining is about. As you say the Bush tax cuts for the vast majority is huge. But it will only solve short-term problems – in the long run taxes will have to rise if we want things like bridges to drive over.
jothepro| 1.3.13 @ 9:11AM
Jack, you and your ilk are what is wrong in this country.
TLP| 1.3.13 @ 12:36PM
The very fact that this English "Cigarette" agrees with you, BHO, should speak Volumes to how wrong you are.
What's wrong with being a Purest?
It seems to be working just fine for the Other Side.
Bill Hussein O'Stalin| 1.3.13 @ 2:35PM
You're incorrect on that. The Democrats gave away a lot including the dreaded AMT.
The problem with some people is that they don't recognize a win because they would rather take the approach they have the better vision and that everyone else is wrong.
In that sense, they are like the liberals they so detest.
TLP| 1.3.13 @ 3:02PM
NO SPENDING CUTS.
And, don't think that they'll be coming in the next round of talks.
They won't.
JD| 1.3.13 @ 1:41PM
By continually making comparisons to an even-further-left-that-should-be, Jack and those like him insist that the Right is "winning".
The Right must drive home comparisons to something else - something the Left is wholly unfamiliar with: REALITY.
Stan Redmond| 1.4.13 @ 2:36PM
Yeah. Who will keep funding the Solyndras and failing automobile businesses of the US?
It is my understanding bridges are funded by fuel taxes or tolls.
spike59| 1.3.13 @ 11:12AM
The spending side of the equation is far from over. That tax bill contained a lot of beauty in it. There's nothing to complain about unless you're a purist.
If you're a purist you're just as bad as the left because there is no compromise that's meaningful.
I think the Republicans got a big win here.
One thing is for sure. They've never erected a statute to a critic
----------------------------
Speaker Boehner, is that you?????????????
TLP| 1.3.13 @ 12:37PM
Someone should remind him that: Nobody ever erected a Buncha Losers, either.
cicero| 1.3.13 @ 9:04AM
Wrong. With the tax bill where it is now, it will be impossible for the economy to expand. The pork and corporate giveaways in this bill are a joke, and only demonstrate that the Dems were never serious in doing anything other than enriching themselves and their big contributors. The Republicans demonstrated that they have no prinicples at all.
The only hope for the Republicans to remain as a viable political party is for the House to carve this turkey up, and refuse to fund the spending portion of the bill. The tax side will stall the economy, and do nothing to pay down the debt, as the only way to do that is to increase the taxes on the middle class, and reimpose the pre-Bush rates on the lower middle class, and the poor.
Sorry about that, but the truth sometimes hurts.
Drunken Sailor| 1.3.13 @ 11:08AM
Cicero,
I could be wrong (wouldn't be the first or last time) but I think the economy not expanding may be what Bill is hinting at.
Think about it, if the economy still does not expand, even though it appears the Dems got everything they wanted, then who takes the blame? One would think it would hang around Obama and the Dems neck like a lead anchor.
We all know this deal will not solve much if anything but the question remains will it open any eyes to see what it takes to turning this ship around or not?
TLP| 1.3.13 @ 3:03PM
Contest, tomorrow, at Mr. Bowman's House.
Purp| 1.3.13 @ 2:23PM
Still hoping the country fails, aren't you?
Never mind the stock market is up 300 pts and December job #'s are over 215,000 jobs for the month!
If the House Republicans can be forced to shut up and sit down, maybe this country can get back on track.
It's people like you that don't want it to. Shame on you for being Un-American.
TLP| 1.3.13 @ 3:06PM
We're not Hoping it's gonna fail.
We just KNOW it is.
There's a difference.
Like Boys and Girls.
But then, you can't even come to grips with that, so why would you understand this?
Purp| 1.4.13 @ 4:28AM
So why didn't the economy expand under Bush, when tax rates were so low? It nearly failed then, didn't it? And took most of the world with us. Can you explain?
Hardcard| 1.3.13 @ 9:08AM
bridges my ass obamao fixed them all with the simulus $$$ or was it the shovel ready jobs program its time for term limits, and a new party the American Party, their ain't a dimes worth of difference between the two progfressive parties we have now, tax more spend more,screw the Constitution and Individual Rights. TLP is gone but not forgetten.. Up yours jack and your employer soros.
TLP| 1.3.13 @ 10:44AM
Tell Hardcard that I am TLP.
Now, if I only had money, that might really mean something.
I really appreciate your support.
You may not be as close as Albert, KJ, Joellen, SUBVET, Pesco, and the Colonel. But you're definately One Of Us. (And, if I left anyone off that list, it was unintentional - Goldwater Girl/Tina B. - You know who you are.)
How about a Contest, tomorrow?
How about we try Once a Month?
How about you actually Write an Analogy?
Is anyone else getting a boner, reading this?
TLP| 1.3.13 @ 12:42PM
And, of course: Occam and Drunken Sailor.
How could I have forgotten Occam?
And, chuck, his brother chuck, and his other brother chuck.
Contest, tomorrow?
Drunken Sailor| 1.3.13 @ 11:18AM
Hardcard
TLP says to tell you he is TLP.
Really, who else could make that kind of logic so simple?
TLP| 1.3.13 @ 12:43PM
Rain Man?
Drunken Sailor| 1.3.13 @ 1:50PM
I was thinking Curly Howard, but close enough.
Purp| 1.3.13 @ 2:24PM
Hard-Boy - the economy is picking up and you've lost the argument - too bad - but stop whining .. it's so lame.
Goldwater Girl| 1.3.13 @ 2:28PM
what is your evidence that the economy is picking up?
TLP| 1.3.13 @ 5:21PM
He won $2.00 on a Scratch Ticket.
Purp| 1.4.13 @ 4:29AM
215,000 jobs in December and Markets are zooming... housing starts are up ... uh, need more?
Hardcard| 1.3.13 @ 9:10AM
Beware a third term and more is in the works for the moslem and chief . Aloha MF.
Von Mises Jr| 1.3.13 @ 9:24AM
While the politicians of the socialist Democrat left and the liberal GOP Establishment that prefers crony capitalism to pure Marxism are both statist, the American people whom voted for continuance of this cabal is also wicked.
We delude ourselves as we tell pollsters that 40% or so consider them conservatives while only 20% or so admit to being liberal. I know way too many Republican voters whom collect huge state pensions and benefits, and are the first to line up for a state grant to convert from electric or propane to oil. How warped the human mind is that can rationalize that they deserve $75K to $100K in pension and benefits per year for a job that they used to do while they are sitting at home in their fifties. Then the state offers $3K in a hand-out, and they are the first in line. Then you talk to them and they swear that they are real conservatives. Who would have thunk?
Al Adab| 1.3.13 @ 10:24AM
Jr.:
The Democrat party no sees itself in much the same way as the former Communist party saw itself, the only true expression of the peoples' will. All others are then by definition reactionary or anti people and have therefore no legitimacy in the public square. It will only be a short time before opposition parties in this country are portrayed in much the same light as in most "third world" (if that term retains any meaning) or petty nations around the globe. How Conservatives choose to react and to carry on will be the measure of their character.
Zeppo| 1.3.13 @ 10:36AM
Unfortunately, a large slice of the GOP apparently sees it in just the same way.
TLP| 1.3.13 @ 12:52PM
That's not really correct.
The problem with the GOP is that they have no idea how Powerful they are. Or, they're just too afraid of the Annas from Emory U types to actually USE that Power.
Think about it: THEY CONTROL THE PURSE STRINGS. They could shut this guy down in a Heartbeat, if they only had a set of nuts between their legs half the size of Nancy Pelosi's.
If they cared half as much about what is right, as they do about Clinging to their cushy jobs, this Crap would have been done with, last August.
"What does it profit a man to Gain the whole world, and Lose his Immortal Soul?"
I guess they'll find out.
Gary B| 1.3.13 @ 1:21PM
Now, that's the TLP I like.
TLP| 1.3.13 @ 3:09PM
Thank you, Gary.
I appreciate that.
I'm trying.
Al Adab| 1.3.13 @ 1:29PM
You hit a point there TLP. Since republicans, and Conservatives more so, distrust government and the exercise of political power as a matter of principle, it is difficult for them to use it heavy handedly when the opportunity presents. One of the sad ironys (sp? esl) of political life on the right.
Zeppo| 1.3.13 @ 2:35PM
Yes, that's the problem with term limits. The Dems have a really deep bench of people who love big government and long to wield its power. Conservatives who have the conviction, skill, and desire to battle the beast are a rare commodity, even in red states. Most of the GOP in Washington are completely content to play second banana.
Zeppo| 1.3.13 @ 2:35PM
Yes, that's the problem with term limits. The Dems have a really deep bench of people who love big government and long to wield its power. Conservatives who have the conviction, skill, and desire to battle the beast are a rare commodity, even in red states. Most of the GOP in Washington are completely content to play second banana.
Purp| 1.3.13 @ 1:18PM
That's why you are losing and will continue to lose. They are simply paying lip service to what they think you want to hear. There is no commitment.
Now the "tax and pay for what you spend Liberals" are different than the "don't tax but borrow what you spend Conservatives" in Congress. The Liberals will pay for what the country needs.
The "Tax and Spend" Liberal moniker was erroneous for decades now. The country knows it, but the longer you hang onto it, the less relevant your side becomes.
Uh, keep doing it ... works for me.
TLP| 1.3.13 @ 3:11PM
You really need to shut up.
Purp| 1.4.13 @ 4:31AM
No.
But why don't you swear at me and get banned again? I understand your foul, disgusting words from your mouth got you banned and deservedly so.
Doctor Right| 1.3.13 @ 9:29AM
The Republican Party treats Conservatives the same way that the Democrat Party treats African-Americans:
"Don't like it? Oh, we'll...who else ya' gonna' vote for?"
Sorry; not playing anymore. I quit the GOP and registered as an Independent. Those gutless morons could screw-up a wet dream.
How many more times must we watch them snatch defeat from the jaws of victory? I say NO MORE.
Conservatives would do well to form a 3rd Party that caucuses with the GOP until such time as this new Party has enough power to go it alone. This would force the remaining GOP to play ball or lose to the Dems at each and every election cycle.
The GOP is on oxygen, and needs to be transferred to a rest home to live out its final days. It's just a political party, it's not a religion; it doesn't have to last forever.
For over 150, the GOP had a purpose; now it doesn't. The rules have changed. The opponent is power-hungry, ruthless, and puts Party over country. They must be met and defeated on their own terms, by people who have the will and the stomach for the fight.
The current crop of GOP "leaders" has to go.
Pecos Pete| 1.3.13 @ 9:50AM
Dr. R: Agreed!
BBT!
TLP| 1.3.13 @ 10:46AM
You know that your new best buddy is an Idiot, right?
Seriously............Do you have ANY friends in New Mexico? And, you can't count the Horse.
Pecos Pete| 1.3.13 @ 11:02AM
Ahhhhh! So nice to see Pretty Timmy is back on line.
Drunken Sailor| 1.3.13 @ 11:20AM
Come on TLP, you have to admit he is right on this one. Even if you two do fight like frat boys over the same passed out girl.
TLP| 1.3.13 @ 12:55PM
He's a Dick.
And, we would never fight over a passed out Girl.
I'd take the passed out Girl, and he'd take her passed out Boyfriend.
Al Adab| 1.3.13 @ 10:26AM
Dr:
That is the correct analysis. The GOP has always treated the Conservative Movement with disdain, yet it is only when the Movement preponderates that the GOP enjoys success. One would think that observers on both sides of that divide would see it, but neither does.
Purp| 1.4.13 @ 4:31AM
Finally, you get it. Your boys are rotten to the core.
Hardcard| 1.3.13 @ 12:20PM
Welcome back, I'm studying for the next contest. I hope you relaxed the spelling requirements. Thanks TLP, I'm hardcard again and still broke.
TLP| 1.3.13 @ 12:56PM
You and me, both.
Albert Constantine Jr.| 1.3.13 @ 2:06PM
Wait, I thought I was hardcard.
TLP| 1.3.13 @ 3:13PM
No.
You're Cardhard.
What's wrong with you?
Contest, tomorrow, at Mr. Bowman's House.
Purp| 1.3.13 @ 1:12PM
Never mind that you say nothing about their ignoring their irresponsible tax policy. Nor mentioning that the House didn't provide anything like a jobs creation bill. They can't even pass legislation to help Hurricane Sandy victims waiting for 2 months!
Nor that you don't mention the absurdity of the House of Rape-resentatives regarding any women's issues.
The Republicans caused this entire mess by holding the country hostage again and again in 2011 which begat the fiscal cliff, the sequester and the real "Do Nothing" Congress. So, they reap what they sow. They deserve all the blame, and are getting it in spades, and rightly so.
I have never seen such a sad bunch of lazy, petulant, do-nothing elected officials in my life. Anyone that voted for these creeps deserves to have their head examined.
Tom Kyba| 1.3.13 @ 1:27PM
Feeling a little left out sparky? Second day with the new brain? Feel better now? Thanks for the "it's the Republicans' fault meme. You're so full of fresh ideas that every time I read you it's like someone sprayed the room with air freshener. Of course, in your case, it's always lavender.
Drunken Sailor| 1.3.13 @ 1:53PM
Tom,
Purps comments leave a smell alright but and it also comes from a field but lavender it aint!
Bill8472| 1.3.13 @ 2:07PM
You wouldn't be referring to a leach field, would you?
Drunken Sailor| 1.3.13 @ 2:47PM
Close enough.
Purp| 1.3.13 @ 2:30PM
Left out? No. A winner, yes!
Now, if you losing conservatives will just get out of the way and let the adults conduct government and foreign policy, we'll get along just fine.
You don't like government and you are terrible at governing.
And it shows. Katrina, Iraq and Afghanistan, now Sandy, Fiscal Cliff, Default on Debt, "Legitmate Rape" and on and on.
Thankfully, America knows now and your time is up. Even your own people can't stand the way you govern. You were terrible stewards of America and you can go home now.
Bill8472| 1.3.13 @ 2:06PM
All the politickin and the commentary on it is hogwash. I know that's true because, as our Congresspersons and the President and all their minions and all the pundits dwelt on the imminence of the financial crisis that was on its way, they suddenly decided it wasn't so pressing a problem that they couldn't afford to take the time, two weeks before the shit was going to hit the fan, to go on Christmas vacation.
Goldwater Girl| 1.3.13 @ 2:25PM
and the CIC went on vacation twice! Do you think if he had to pay for the flight he would have flown home for that show? This guy added nothing to the negotiation, but rather nearly blew up the deal, however bad, with his early victory lap. He's a sore winner, that one.
TLP| 1.3.13 @ 5:24PM
Contest, tomorrow, at Mr. Bowman's House.
Figure it out.
And, thanks GG.
Purp| 1.4.13 @ 4:34AM
And, yet a Winner....
You on the other hand, are a loser and sore one at that. How's it feel when your ideas are rejected by America?
Now, go ahead and whine that I'm being mean or stupid or something... you're still a LOSER.
Pecos Pete| 1.4.13 @ 11:18AM
The United States begins 2013 in uncharted economic waters; America has never been here before.
Consider, for example, these seven “firsts” for the U.S. economy:
1. All-time record annual average gas price: In 2012, the average cost of a gallon of gas eclipsed the previous record by nine cents, bringing the annual average to $3.60.
2. All-time record food stamp participation: As of last month, for the first time in American history, 47,710,324 individuals -- roughly one out of every seven people living in the United States -- now receive food stamps.
3. All-time high youth unemployment: In the last four years, average youth unemployment eclipsed the previous record rising to 17.5% -- the highest ever in recorded U.S. history.
Pecos Pete| 1.4.13 @ 11:19AM
4. All-time high number of Americans no longer in the labor force: Never before in U.S. history have so many been sidelined from the workforce. Today, a record 88,921,000 Americans are no longer a part of the U.S. labor force.
5. All-time record number of Americans collecting disability: Medical advancements and technological innovations have increased life expectancy and made workplaces safer. Still, the number of Americans collecting Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) has skyrocketed in the last four years. Today, a record 8,827,795 individuals collect a disability check averaging $1,130.34 a month.
6. All-time record number of Americans living in poverty: According to the U.S. Census Bureau, a record 46.2 million people in America are living in poverty, the highest number in the 53 years that the Census Bureau has collected the figure.
7. All-time record U.S. debt: The last four years have exploded the U.S. debt to levels never seen before in American history. Presently, the United States is $16,400,000,000,000 in debt.
Stan Redmond| 1.4.13 @ 2:42PM
All Bush's fault.
Arnie| 1.4.13 @ 3:13PM
Uh-oh. It looks like Obama does have a mandate. He got more than 51% and wooped Romney pretty badly. By 3.85%.
https://docs.google.com/a/aauni.edu/spreadsheet/lv?key=0AjYj9mXElO_QdHpla01oWE1jOFZRbnhJZkZpVFNKeVE&toomany=true
"Months after the November election, the final official vote from all 50 states and the District of Columbia showed Obama with 65,899,660 votes, or 51.1 percent, and Romney with 60,932,152 votes, or 47.2 percent. Obama is the first president since Republican Dwight Eisenhower to win back-to-back presidential elections with more than 51 percent of the popular vote."
sdfhlk | 1.5.13 @ 1:23AM
Happy New Year,NBA ,NFL 2013
Michele San Pietro| 1.6.13 @ 9:30AM
It's high time for Americans to do away with such a senseless "liberalism" once and for all!