Propaganda.  Today as I was travelling to school I wondered first, how many Americans understand that word and secondly, how many Americans are cognizant of the propaganda machine the Republican party has created in the last 30 years.  I have to give them credit, they are very good at this.  But the reality is that their propaganda machine is one of the main reasons I think they should be escorted into the memory books of this nation’s history.  There is a growing number of Americans who agree with my contention that the Republican party in this country is interested in only two things: power and money.  As I’m looking at the economic meltdown two thoughts come to mind in relation to their interests.  They have lost power and they’re willing to do anything to get it back.  That’s the first thought, the second is that because of their tax cuts for the wealthy and their other policies that favored the “rich” –  people like me will have been broke for a long time before the effects of this recession/possible depression hits many of them.  And, until it hits their pocket books I believe they will still be calling for more tax cuts for corporations and investors as the way to “create jobs” in our economy.

I could go on and on here.  And each example I could give would border on stupidity – at least in my mind.  The other day I watched tapes of John McCain standing on the Senate floor actually proposing an alternative “rescue” plan which was totally made up of tax cuts and the vast majority of them were corporate tax cuts (most of these corporations don’t pay taxes already) and capital gains tax cuts (presumably to encourage more people to try to make a living gambling on the stock market).  Can you even imagine if he’d won this election?  At least with President Obama there is some hope.  I’m guessing that McCain still believes the “fundamentals of our economy are strong.”  The guy is a nimwit – I have no idea how he has managed to stay in the Senate for so long – makes me wonder about the idea of retiring in Arizona.

Then today, while driving around I heard another Republican who was against the “stimulus plan” being presently debated because he felt there needed to be “private” jobs created.  Evidently, the guy thinks that the 100+ Billion in infrastructure spending would be done by government businesses.  However, the only government businesses I’m aware of at this time are the big banks which were “bought” by Henry Paulsen and AIG the big insurance company which has received over $150 Billion in government “investment.”  I thought “This is par for the course.”  Of course, My brother-in-law who works for Granite Construction in California would think otherwise.  He is the epitome of a hard working engineer for a PRIVATE construction business – he’s an engineer who masterfully builds roads and bridges – and people like him and the company he works for will be the beneficiary of this government investment along with the rest of us because what they build will be around for the next century – it will just be that federal tax dollars will pay for it.  Every time we drive through California, “We the People” will benefit from this spending for many many years to come – and, believe me, Granite Construction is a well run PRIVATE company.  There are many stories and PRIVATE companies like this all across our nation which would be virtually saved by this “stimulus.”

And then there’s the Republicans who are complaining that we will be running up huge deficits.  I actually heard one of them today complaining that the cost of this stimulus package will be borne by our grandchildren.  YOU’VE GOT TO BE KIDDING ME!!!  After the combination of Nixon, Reagan, Bush, and Bush has pushed our national debt from the billions (it was close to being in balance after Lyndon Johnson) to the 12 trillion level in about 30 years and put our economy in a state of ruin – how can they even say this?  (it would have been about a trillion worse except for the “tax and spend” policies of Bill Clinton – and believe me, the Republicans will have some kind of rationalization to explain why Bill Clinton’s surpluses were either because of them or excessive taxes – both bold faced lies – and they will NEVER talk about how they didn’t waste a second of their time thinking in terms of paying down the national debt with the surplus before Bush II frittered it away shortly after assuming office) They are going to complain about deficit spending now? – AT A TIME WHEN IT IS CRITICALLY NEEDED!?  If there ever was a time for deficit spending (well, except for 1933 of course) now is the time.  These guys are nothing more than lying blowhards and hypocrits!

Propaganda is when you keep repeating the same thing over and over until people actually start to think you know what you’re talking about and start believing you.  Now, I thought the American people had gotten beyond these Republicans as of November 4th, 2008.  However, two things seem to be happening at once.  First, President Obama seems determined to work with Republicans (giving them undeserved credibility) and push for a “bi-partisan” spirit in Washington.  Second, the Republicans could care less if they take this nation down to its knees, if it will help them insure the failure of the Obama administration.  And, make no mistake, they are very good at this.  Lying is second nature to virtually every Republican I am familiar with.  They’ve got Rush Limbaugh calling the shots from his radio mike with an audience of billions (if you ask him) – he calls them ditto heads (just the thought of that word makes my point – a bunch of peolpe who can’t think for themselves all repeating the same thing over and over until every last one of them believes that their lie is true – you know ditto (like ditto machine) – I call them butt heads – the kind of people who made Hitler powerful in Germany during the 1930’s.

If President Obama doesn’t succeed, and if the so-called stimulus package that comes out of Congress fails to stimulate the economy, I believe it will be because of Obama’s attempt to placate Republicans.  Today I heard that the so-called Blue Dog Democrats and the “moderate” Republicans had come up with some kind of compromise – and I truly hope it gets passed and it works.  But it has been very interesting, at the very least, watching this process.  The first 100 days of any Presidency, by all accounts, are critical to establish your administration.  To me, when you have a 70% approval rating and you’ve just won an election in a landslide, and the people on the “other side of the isle” have been leading you off a cliff, you don’t placate them – PERIOD!!!  If Obama fails, I believe this will be the simple answer – he tried to placate the Republicans.  This “stimulus” package is just the tip of the iceberg.  These guys are arguing over a few minor “flaws” in the plan as if to try to get their constituents to think they are really looking out for our nation’s interests.  There is a lot more arguing ahead of us!

Republicans are still controlling trillions of dollars which they have gleaned from taxpayers over the past 8 years, and this recession is a “buying opportunity” for the greedy ones.  They aren’t thinking for a minute what is the common good.  They can outlast, economically, all but the very few Democrats and don’t think for a minute that they wouldn’t attempt to do this.  I feel confident that they are scared to death of Obama coming in and being the second Roosevelt.  It would mean another 40 years or so on the sidelines for their party.  And, to them, their party is more important than our country.  During the Bush fiasco, one of my real frustrations was the Democrats willingness to “cave” in to Bush.  I just think they felt he was the President and they were thinking “country first” – the supposed Republican campaign slogan of 2008 (what a irony!) – that’s why they didn’t cut off funds for Iraq (which I still believe they should have), that’s why there has been millions of illegal wiretaps, and that is why Bush was not impeached – the Democrats were thinking “country first.”  This led to a miserable 8 years for many of us waiting for the Bush Presidency to FINALLY end!

Well, from the looks of things and despite the McCain campaign slogans, it doesn’t appear the Republicans are capable of “Country First.”  Obama will get some kind of “stimulus” package, but he will be considerably weakened by the time it’s done.  And make no mistake, this is just the “tip of the iceberg” as far as any rescue of our economy.  By my thoughts, the best that can be hoped for from this “stimulus” package is that the downward spiral will be stopped or considerably slowed down – so that we can take a breath and think things through more carefully as we proceed.  There is going to have to be ADDITIONAL SPENDING to the tune of possibly a couple trillion dollars – that’s just the reality of the situation as I see it.  And there’s no way of avoiding the fact that there will need to be ADDITIONAL REVENUE – YES! MORE TAXES – NOT LESS!!!  Now, that might be a year away or so, but it is going to have to happen – I don’t see any way around it.  At some point, we Americans, are going to have to realize that we must start paying for things – even if that effects our “standard of living” which everyone knows is exhorbitant – and can be easily reduced for most people.

I’m predicting – or suggesting – a 50 cent per gallon gas tax as a way to start.  That would spread the burden across the board (you could figure ways to exclude low income people, truck drivers, etc.) and it would bring in massive amounts of revenue while discouraging the use of gasoline.  Additionally, I’ll be very disappointed in President Obama if he fails to repeal the Bush tax cuts instead of just letting them run out.  That would NOT be what I would call a bold move.  Bold moves won’t be happening as long as there is this sense that we need to be bi-partisan.  Essentially, what I’m saying is the Republicans, despite a sound thrashing at the polls in November, despite a hugely poplular president from the opposing party, despite policies that have been proven failures, despite record low poll ratings, have used their skills at propaganda and their utter lack of concern for the future of this nation, to put President Obama on the defensive.  If he doesn’t quickly figure out what they are doing and counter act it with aggressiveness, I believe he will be a one term president and we will spend the next four years experiencing the kind of garbage that cluttered the airwaves during Bill Clinton’s Presidency – it will just be choreographed especially for Barrack Obama.

 This is all grandstanding on both sides, as far as I’m concerned.  And, in my mind, the Democrats are no match for the Republican propaganda machine.  As of this morning, based on polls that I heard, the Republicans had succeeded in “spinning” Obama’s support down to about 51 or 52% from the 70% where he started.  He had better figure out quickly that they don’t want him to succeed and he MUST go into attack mode – or his presidency will be doomed before it starts.  I was watching Chris Matthews the other day (the guy makes me want to throw up) and I realized that Obama has to overcome the intrenched media who seem to be willing to give “time” to some of the lowest of the Republicans as well as the Republicans themselves, evidently because controversy drives their ratings.  But, as far as I’m concerned, people like Matthews are concerned about as much for this nation as the Republicans who they regularly give a platform.  Either the Republicans are in better standing with these media folks, or the Democrats  just don’t know how to fight back.  But it’s almost unbelievable to me that I’m hearing Republicans on national TV proposing tax cuts to solve this problem and supposedly intelligent media people are letting them get away with it.  Every time Republicans suggest more tax cuts, they should be getting ridiculed.

The other day I said, “I don’t want to beat a dead horse” in reference to my seemingly constant “encouragment for President Obama to stop courting Republicans and start prosecuting them.  Well, I wasn’t lying – I DON’T WANT TO KEEP DOING THIS! – but the truth is, I feel I have to.  And while I’m acting like anyone is actually reading this – according to 1 and 1 (my service provider – and by the way, they’re good and you can get 2500 email addresses and three domains for $10/month – don’t forget to tell them that I sent you :o)  there are people reading this blog, just not commenting – if you are reading this, please send a few emails to peolpe with the URL (www.dfpiper.com) so that eventually I can find someone who either wants to agree with or argue with me.  Or better yet, email me at david@dfpiper.com with your thoughts – I really would like to hear what other people think about what’s going on in our country.  OK, back to “business.”  A few days ago it was Rush Limbaugh, yesterday it was Samuel Wurzelbacher (I refuse to call him Joe the you know what), and today who’s back?  None other than Dick Cheney.  And, if the news media is at all correct, the stories I’m reading suggest that President Obama’s “stimulus package” is “in trouble.”  Trying to absorb all this (it’s alot) is tough enough, but focusing my thoughts for a single post is going to be a real challenge.  Those who know me think I have a tendency toward too many words – I’m trying to be kind to both them and me in my description :o)

I could stay up all night writing why I think it is imperative for a stimulus package to be implemented “sooner rather than later.”  Even though I agree with those who claim the “package” is too small and doesn’t do enough for infrastructure rebuilding, it is a start in the right direction.  And, while I fervently disagree with the tax cut provision of the bill, I understand the rationale behind it.  Putting $1000 into the hands of every working couple and $500 for every working individual will infuse money almost immediately into the system.  While this does nothing for the long-term problems created by 30 years of greed and supply side economics, it does provide a “jumpstart” that conceivably could prevent an untold number of businesses going upside down and jobs going the way of the dinosaur prior to the rest of the plan taking effect.  It is imperative FOR ALL OF US – NO MATTER WHAT ALLEGIANCES WE HAVE that the downward meltdown of our economy be halted ASAP!  Therefore, I’m willing to bite my lip and say maybe the tax cuts are a good idea, because much of the rest of the package will take several months to get “off the ground” so to speak.  OK, I’ve done it, I’ve at least briefly talked about the stimulus package that’s in trouble.  If this thing doesn’t get passed soon, well, I’ll have even more to say about Republicans and also about how our Senate works.  I’ll end this part of my discussion by saying I’d really like to see the Democrats force the Republicans to talk for months, if that is what it takes, to get them out of the filibuster mood.  The threat of filibuster seems to be the solution for every bit of legislation – which is not what was intended when the “art” of filibustering was “invented” – so Democrats, MAKE THEM DO IT – no more caving at the threat of a filibuster.

Back to the beating a “dead horse” part of the discussion.  Now I feel like I’m treating President Obama like I treat my sixth graders who prefer “World of Warcraft” to homework, and who have to listen to my rants over and over – with my desire being that at some point they would actually follow my instructions.  Of course, I would have to call this advice (not instructions) for President Obama, but I’m going to keep giving it to him until someone gets through to his brain, or until he reads my posts and comes to his senses! :o)  Talk about arrogant, huh?  I’m just watching where things are heading and I don’t like what I’m seeing.  I sent money I didn’t have to Obama during the campaign, so I think I’m justified in giving him my advice.  Here it is: LOSE THE REPUBLICANS!  This idea of crossing the partisan divide, while in theory very admirable, is going to get your ship sinking and if you’re not careful it’ll be difficult to bail the water out faster than it is coming in.  I think I’m going to have to be very direct here, and I hope no one’s totally offended by what I say, but, again – I’d love a discussion on the subject.

First: Mr. Obama, I’ve got to point out a very important point to you.  Despite the FACT that your Mom was white, the Republicans consider you a – I’m going to use my term, not theirs – African American.  Now, for many Americans that is no longer an issue.  But for the hard core Republicans (these are the ones whose voices are being heard the loudest – any Republican who agrees with you is afraid to step forward in fear of being put on the Rush Limbaugh show and we all know where Limbaugh stands on race) they don’t like you simply because of that.  Even John McCain pretty much got away with referring to you as “That one” in one of the debates, which made the hair on my back stand on end – not only that he said it right in front of God and everyone, but that there wasn’t more public disgust and outrage aimed at him for doing so (of course the voters showed their disgust in November).  I’m saying this because they absolutely want you to fail, and they are going to do everything in their power to insure that you do.  The FACT that you are trying so hard to include them in the debate is only causing two things to happen.  They think you’re weak and can be manipulated and your own party is probably getting a bit angry that you’re seemingly giving them more time than Democrats.  I don’t see how you can win here unless you admit to another “screwup” (even if it’s in private – or in your own thoughts) and quit cowing to these thugs.

They are the ones who have caused all the problems you’re trying to fix.  And they don’t “get it,” they’re not going to “get it,” and when you look at how the Bush administration was purposefully trying to destroy our government – they probably don’t want things fixed!  THINGS WORK BETTER FOR THEM THE WORSE THEY ARE FOR THE REST OF US!  The last thing the Republicans want to see is a black President coming in and fixing the mess they created.  That might cause people to take a good look at THEM.  Now, I’m not trying in any way to be demeaning here or imply there is still racism in this country (we all know the truth about that).  I’m just trying to tell it as I see it.  I’ve read one of your books, and I’m reading “The Dreams of my Father” right now.  I admire your intellect and your integrity.  There is so much about you that makes me feel like there is hope – but I believe with all my heart if you don’t tell the Republicans you are going to move on without them (there are a few that will jump on board) your presidency faces the posibility of being doomed.  For example, today you nominated a Republican who voted to abolish the Commerce department in the 90’s to run it in this time of national crisis as far as Commerce is concerned.  That sounds almost too Bushlike for me.  I’m really tired of these Republicans (it’s probably obvious, huh?) and the ones speaking out almost make me puke every time I hear their words coming out of their mouths.  President Obama,  ENOUGH ALREADY!!!

Today, former Vice President Cheney stepped over the line AGAIN.  I’ve been telling you, President Obama, what you need to do with this guy and I hope you listen – but today he was unbelievable.  Well, no he wasn’t – the truth is that nothing he said today surprised me at all.  The only thing that surprises me is that you have even the slightest hesitancy about letting the legal process regarding his actions “fall where they may.”  That is, encourage an investigation.  OUR NATION NEEDS TO BE RID OF THE BURDEN CHENEY AND BUSH PUT ON OUR SHOULDERS AS BAD AS WE NEED TO FIX THE ECONOMY!  I don’t see why you are missing this.  Today, Cheney did everything in his power to undermine everything you’re trying to do.  He’s going to continue, along with his former boss, to try to manipulate history in order to justify the gestapo like atmosphere they brought to our government.  YOU CAN’T JUST LOOK FORWARD – YOU HAVE TO LOOK BACK.  You can’t fix things if you ignore what got us to this place.  Cheney admitted again today,  as he was trying to undermine you, that he authorized torture (enhanced interrogation – don’t you just love euphamisms?), illegal wiretapping, and illegal wars.  He’s going to continue to play the “fear card” until you put some fear in him.  He needs to go to JAIL, and it is your administration which we are counting on to make this happen.  Today, Cheney upped the rhetoric they are going to use in calling you a WEAK PRESIDENT!  You can’t let this happen – SO START WITH THEM – BUSH AND CHENEY! 

My suggestion would be make a speech to the nation asking the 70% of Americans that are supporting you to call their congressional leaders and encourage them to vote for this stimulus package so that we can move on.  In the process, let the Republicans know if they want to act in a civilized manner they are welcomed in the discussion.  But “business as usual” is OVER!  If they can’t do better than Limbaugh, Hannity, Joe the whatever his name is, and Cheney – then they shouldn’t even be part of the discussion.  We voted for a progressive change in this country – and believe me Mr. Obama – that 70% can be gone in a flash – so don’t even give the hint that you are weak.  If it’s not obvious, I’m pretty “peeved” by what Cheney said today – If you haven’t heard, he was interviewed at Politico.com and check it out.  It was pretty incredible.  Between Cheney, Limbaugh, Palin, and Joe what’shisname, are we going to let people who have nothing to offer continue to destroy this nation?  These people are vile.  They are the liars that believe their own lies.  They are dangerous to the very fabric of this representative republic.  We are not only fighting to restore the economy Republicans undermined we are fighting for the system of justice that, over the last 200+ years, has separated this nation from all others on the face of the earth.  Dick Cheney going to jail would do as much for turning this nation around as the stimulus package!

I don’t want to be sitting here at my computer giving President Obama advice.  But, well you can guess what’s about to happen, can’t you?  I mean, today, for the first time that I can remember (probably since Jimmy Carter – I hope this isn’t a bad omen) I saw a President say “I screwed up” on national TV. Now, I’m not exactly sure what he was referring to when he said that – ostensibly he was referring to the nomination of Tom Daschle to be Secretary of Health and Human services – Daschle withdrew his nomination because he failed to pay a substantial sum of income tax incurred when he accepted the use of a car and driver upon his departure from the US Senate a few years ago. Originally Obama stood behind him – kind of a blind loyalty, I suppose with the belief that Daschle was the best person for the job – which kind of undercut Obama’s pledge to “change” the culture of Washington (what President hasn’t made that pledge?). Obviously, Obama himself didn’t “vet” Daschle for the job, and just as obviously Daschle wasn’t totally forthcoming when offered the job – so it made it a bit interesting trying to figure out what Obama was apologizing for. Surely, it was appropriate for Daschle to apologize. Maybe, this is my optimistic self talking, President Obama is REALLY a “the buck stops here” kind of President and that’s why he took responsibility. I guess we’ll find out.

Getting back to my advice. Not only did Daschle withdraw his nomination, but another less well known person withdrew hers (I have no idea what her name is) because at some point in her life she failed to pay $900 in taxes for a person who worked for her as a nanny, or something like that. OK, I need a little more of a frame for my thoughts, so you’ll have to wait for the advice a bit longer. I see a couple problems with this tax crusade from whoever is “uncovering” these “mistakes.” Keep in mind that to change Washington’s culture, we may need some people from outside of Washington to fill some of the positions that require Senate confimation and the way it’s working back there now, I can forsee a time when they can’t get people willing to allow themselves to go through this grilling by a bunch of hypocrits (and, believe me, I fully understand that this hypocracy is one thing in Washington that is “bi-partisan”). Now, Daschle failed to pay well over a hundred thousand dollars over a period of three years (that’s taxes on the value of the gift – a car and driver – must have been some kind of car and some special driver) and he also received hundreds of thousands of dollars speaking to the very companies which he would have been dealing with in developing a national health insurance program. I think, “Upon further review,” President Obama realized Daschle represented “more of the same” and that is why he was apologizing for “screwing up.” Daschle should never have been nominated – it was done in haste and it was a mistake. The second person – who if I understand it correctly paid $900 late – are you kidding me? I mean I’d hate to go before the commitees who are approving/dispoving these nominees.

I always try to pay my taxes fairly. I’ve been homeless and jobless before. I’m thankful I “get” to pay taxes. That means I have a job and I’m actually making a liveable wage. That being said, I don’t know how accurate Turbo Tax is. I’ve never been audited (and I hope I never am) – probably because I don’t make much and it should be obvious to anyone that I’m not trying to cheat. But, if someone went over my last 10 years returns with a “fine tooth comb” I have no idea if they’d find a mistake. There can be no doubt, people like Daschle don’t figure out their own taxes either. They have high paid accountants (think of what it would be like to be Daschle’s accountant right now – yesterday I’m bragging that Daschle is my client, today I’m in the commercial that ends with “Want to get away?”) and they probably make so much money that they have no idea if all their taxes have been paid and it doesn’t seem to matter. I mean, if all of a sudden I had to come up with $140,000 to clear up a tax bill, I’d be on the phone immediately to one of those outfits on the radio who advertise that they can come up with alternate solutions which reduce the debt. I mean, that’s more than I take home from work in 4 years!

My point #1: someone is looking at the minutia and taking advantage of Obama’s pledge to clean up Washington. Now guess who this might be? What’s the old saying; “Three guesses and the first two don’t count.” OK, we know that the Republicans are about as far from squeaky clean as you can get, but they are really abusing the position they’re in right now. THEY ARE GOING TO DO EVERYTHING THEY CAN TO UNDERMINE BARRACK OBAMA’S PRESIDENCY! This is just a given. I guarantee you, if all the Republicans leading the charge against Daschle – and more ridiculously the lady who was late with $900 – had to submit to tax audits before they could use this as an excuse to vote against the nomination – this would not have even come up as an issue. Remember the Bible story where Jesus is at the well with the prostitute who the Pharisees wanted to stone to death – and he said “Let the man without sin throw the first stone” – which resulted in all the accusers walking away in shame – well I suspect the same would have happend here. So, has Obama backed himself into a corner with his pledge of “purity?” Well, I don’t think so, and I’ll tell you why.

Which brings me to point #2 – And this is my advice to President Obama: I’ve been writing for over two months now on the importance of allowing investigations of the Bush administration to go on on all fronts (this would undoubtedly bring in a few Republicans along the way). Insure they are run by non-partisan members of the Justice department and let the evidence speak for itself. Where people are exonerated, where laws have not been broken, just find out what happened for history’s sake and for the sake of correcting actions that we don’t want to happen again. Where there has been lawbreaking, let the judicial system that has made this the greatest nation on earth carry out fair and impartial justice. Let these Republicans flap their jaws for a few days because that’s about all they’ve got – and tell them, “You’re right, we’ve got to find out the details of what has been going on in this town – from everyone – including you.” That is the only way you’ll get their attention – DON’T BACK DOWN! You understand full well that their solution to the mess they’ve made – more of the same stupidity – TAX CUTS FOR THE WEALTHY – would get you thrown out of town quickly. Here’s the main problem, these guys have been running roughshod over the constitution, the Congress, the people, anyone and anything that gets in their way for far too long. PUT A HALT TO IT RIGHT NOW! Understand this Predident Obama; The Republicans are not going to work in a non-partisan fashion until they are convinced that you DON’T NEED THEM. At that point they will come grovelling – I guarantee it!

But for now – you’ve got to go on without them. They are trying to expose you as a weak President. You don’t have a lot of time to turn this around. I mean Mr. President – this is the party that is being led be a big fat blowhard who’s day job is to tell one lie after another on the radio airwaves – he’s perfected the art of lying – I’ll give him that. And it’s “leading” candidate to make a run for your job in 2012 is a governor of a state about the size of the county I live in (poplulation wise), who shoots wolves while hovering in a helicopter, is also a good liar,  and considers foreign policy being able to see Russia from her house (this is one of the ways she proved her incompetence).  On top of that, their new leading “front man” is another superb liar (must be a requirement to lead the Republican party – incompetence at everything but lying) Samuel Wurzelbacher, who you know as Joe the Plumber from the campaign, the unemployed plumber who gained five minutes (now hours) of fame by lying right to your face.  This is the type of “Economic expert” these Republicans rely on!  These people have no intention of cooperating with you – EVEN IF THE FUTURE OF THE COUNTRY IS AT STAKE. The only future they worry about is their own return to power – and they’ll get there any way they can at whatever expense they have to incurr. (the last eight years should make it clear what they’re made of Mr. Obama!)

Give them a chance this week to vote for the stimulus package as it’s presented. If they block it, go into attack mode. Let them know who’s running the show at this point. Take out the tax cuts, increase the spending on infrastructure, and dare them to filibuster. If they filibuster, let them talk until they’re blue in the face. Yes, if this doesn’t pass quickly we’re all going to suffer a bit more (possibly a lot more) but the long term benefits of demonstrating you are in charge and they are the minority party will be huge. And the investigations that I’ve been calling for will uncover so much corruption and lawbreaking that these guys won’t be back in power until their children are running for their seats in Congress, at the earliest. President Obama, the only thing the Republicans want from you, is your failure!

Honestly, I’m not trying to “beat a dead horse.” But today as I was thinking about what it’s going to take to move this great country in the direction of leader of the free world I couldn’t help but think we have to “walk the walk.” We’ve become very good at talking the “talk” but it’s the walk that seems to be so difficult. We are a nation of laws and not men, that is the mantra that has allowed the United States of America to survive as a self governing republic for over 200 years, something unachieved prior to this in the World’s history. It feels as if the foundation is cracking. Eight years of George W Bush and company has put this nation in jeopardy of losing its status as the world’s lone super power. The world, in my opinion, desperately needs America to return to its roots, so to speak, because we have the opportunity to lead by example as many nations struggle to find an identity in the 21st century.

My thoughts today centered on the fact that Karl Rove continues to thumb his nose at congressional subpoenas as if the law doesn’t apply to him. Virtually every member of the Bush administration, post Scooter Libby’s conviction for obstruction of justice and perjury, just refused to testify or provide any information about what was happening inside the “walls” of their “command center.” Everything was excused because of national security or executive privilege – both dubious claims that the Democrats never forced them to justify in court. While I blame the Democrats for that, it’s more understandable while Bush was still in office, but totally unacceptable now. I know that President Obama must be focused on getting the Stimulus legislation through Congress, but this lawbreaking cannot go unabated.

Rove, Harrriet Miers, Josh Bolton, they can’t get away with ignoring Congressional subpoenas. Letting that happen won’t be “looking ahead” it will be asking for a national disaster down the road as far as our legal system. The reason our system works is because the people of this country have a sense that it’s fair and they have confidence in it. I’m not suggesting a witch hunt for Republicans – I’m suggesting that citizens that are subpoened by Congress have two choices – appear and testify or go to jail for contempt of Congress. It can’t be any other way! I voted for Obama, but I don’t want him or any other future President thinking this is OK.

Our system of justice works largely based on interpretation of the original constitution by supposedly fair minded judges and juries. We trust that the prosecutors and those in government who take the oath to defend the constitution and execute the laws will act in a non-partisan manner. Now we know that during the Bush years this changed in the Justice department and people were hired and fired based on political motivations. THIS CAN’T HAPPEN IF WE ARE TO REMAIN A STRONG STABLE NATION! When Congress chose to investigate the firings of nine (republican) attorney’s general, possibly for political reasons, the Bush administration chose to refuse to cooperate. In the process they took an embarrassing situation – which probably wasn’t illegal – and turned it into an issue of critical importance to the future of this nation. If Rove, Miers, and Bolton get away with this, they are setting a disgusting precedent. It is through precedents that the constitution is molded to evolve with the changing times. This would be a terrible way to let the constitution evolve.

President Obama need not do any more than let Congressional leaders and the Justice department do what is right here – he should be able to stay out of the “fray.” But if they continue to allow themselves to be pushed around by Rove, in particular, then someone has to step in and say “enough already.” This guy was responsible for who knows how much of the illegal behavior of the Bush administration. There is little doubt in my mind that he participated in the “outing” of Valerie Plame – the covert CIA agent – a treasonous offense – and he was clearly involved in the firing of the US attorneys – which was also an abuse of his position in the White House. At the very least, Rove should be forced to testify about his role in these scandals in front of Congress and a national CSPAN audience. We deserve to know exactly what happened so that it can be prevented from happening again. And, just because he was the President’s advisor shouldn’t isolate him from his responsibility to act within the bounds of the law. I believe his lawbreaking went far beyond these two areas, but regardless, “We the People” should get a full accounting of his actions – if for no other reason than for history’s sake. How else can we insure his abuses are never repeated? We, as a nation, can ill afford to EVER experience the Bush years again!

It’s late, and maybe I can actually write a short post. I’m going to give it a shot. I didn’t want to write anything tonight. I’m a school teacher and when grades are due, pretty much everything else stops until you get them done. Well, grades are due, I’m almost done with them (I’ll finish tomorrow evening) and it’s time for bed – except I’ve got to comment about Rush Limbaugh. I got to the point many years ago where I couldn’t stand to listen to this blowhard for more than a few seconds before I had to change the channel. To me, the fact that he’s still on the air (notwithstanding that he supposedly makes a hundred million dollars a year for spewing his venim) is a good reason why this country is in the state it’s in. I look forward to the day when people start calling or writing his sponsors to inform them they won’t use their products as long as they sponsor Rush. This guy epitomizes everything that is wrong with this nation. And I’m sorry to say that some of my friends listen to the guy, and – just like reasonable people can’t talk to Rush – I can’t even talk to my friends about this. Limbaugh is such a greedy, divisive, racist, thug – how can good people even find him entertaining?

I’m saying this to frame tonight’s thoughts based on something I heard while riding around in my car listening to the radio today. From several sources I heard that Rush was quoted as saying – regarding President Obama’s Stimulus package – “I hope he fails.” Now, I didn’t hear it directly out of his mouth with my own ears, but the number of different people I heard quoting him leads me to believe he said it. Rush has somehow been elevated to the “top” of the conservative movement – I guess because the movement is virtually bankrupt when it comes to leaders. I can tell you that until they cleanse themselves of this – I can’t think of a word that I would feel comfortable using on this website – I’ll just say BAD person – the Republicans are on their way to becoming nothing more than part of future history books. OUR NATION IS IN A STATE OF CRISIS THAT IS UNPRECEDENTED AND HE’S WISHING FOR THE PRESIDENT TO FAIL!!! To me, I’ve always considered him a traitor to the common good, but today I’m just feeling he’s a traitor! How can he wish the President’s policy will fail at a time like this.

And, what about his listeners? The next thing I need to find out is are they going along with this? Dear God, I hope not. I guess the reality is that not a single Republican voted for the stimulus package in the House of Representatives last week, so maybe it is the Republican position that they want this plan to fail. Are they going to continue to pretend that their supply side economics along with their adventurous foreign policy didn’t cause this mess? Do they really think we will buy the idea that EVEN MORE TAX CUTS will solve the problem largely created by excessive tax cuts? Do they really believe we can survive as a nation without a strong federal government? I guess they feel that if Obama succeeds it will be a long time until they get their greedy selves back into the White House! So much for McCain’s campaign slogan; “Country First.” I’m calling this absurd because I can’t think of a more descriptive term right at the moment. Make that absurd in bold type and capital letters!!!

I also heard that a republican member of the house said the truth about Limbaugh – called him out on his divisiveness – and was raked over the coals by the powers that be in the Republican party. Now that is even more absurd. Is Limbaugh really the spokesperson for their party? You’ve got to be kidding me if that is true. The other day, on Keith Olbermans’ show I saw a little snipit where Limbaugh evidently was pushing for Sarah Palin as the next Presidential candiate for the Republicans. As ridiculous as that sounds to me, I actually hope he gets his way. But, I have to say that the thought that Rush Limbaugh could be the leader of any political party – and for that party to have any traction whatsoever – is mind boggling to me, especially in a country that is supposed to have an educated electorate. I guess, if this is true, it tells us as Americans (and me as a teacher) the reality as to how educated our electorate is. I’m sure Sarah Palin is a nice person – but Presidential material? YOU’VE REALLY GOT TO BE KIDDING ME! I would certainly have a lot to write about.

Now that my post is obviously not going to be very short, I just have to say that I was angered at first and then just disgusted that at this point in time we would be having people in places where they can influence the unwitting – calling for the failure of something this important. If we were ever going to pull together as a nation, we need to do it now. Personally, I don’t like everything about the proposed stimulus package – BUT I DEFINITELY HOPE IT SUCCEEDS. Wouldn’t it be nice if true conservatives joined in the debate in a rational manner and tried to influence the legislation to insure its success? I always considered myself a conservative. But starting with Reagan, then GHW Bush, and especially with GW Bush, I felt no connection whatsoever. (I didn’t feel much of a connection with Clinton either, but he did balance the budget – which, to me, is high on the conservative mantra) I do believe the Democrats to be spineless – but now would be a good time for them to stand up and show some guts. Call this for what it is – these vile words coming from the mouth of one of the most vile people in our country – take this guy on for a change. Challenge those who listen to him about the very thing they challenged me when I pointed out the fallacy of invading Iraq and letting Osama bin Laden “off the hook.” Challenge their patriotism. If this stimulus package fails, we all fail. Now, if you have hundred’s of millions stashed somewhere, as does Limbaugh I suppose, you’ll get by just fine. But yesterday I spent the first part of the day feeding and providing warm clothing and toiletries for homeless people in Portland, Oregon. I am thankful that I’m not in that situation, but many are, and many more are headed that way – In the name of decency; We need to pull together as a nation and try to ensure that Obama doesn’t fail!

Fear; isn’t that the objective of terrorists. Just thinking about the term, terrorists, leads anyone, I believe, who is thinking logically to come to the conclusion that instilling fear in people would be exactly what people like Osama bin Laden are trying to accomplish through their actions. Therefore, if they succeed in doing this, does that mean they are winning? I’m following former President Bush’s logic in declaring a “war on terror.” To be honest, I never understood the logic behind that “philosophy” if that is what you could call that type of thinking. Isn’t terror, per se, a tactic? How do you declare war on a tactic? I’m trying to generate thought (it would be great to have a discussion, but so far my attempt at a blog has not resulted in any comments, let alone a discussion) about the consequences of having the leadership of our nation resorting to “fear mongering” to accomplish their goals. (when they do that, are they then, themselves, acting like terrorists?)

Now, I know in my heart that the American people are not afraid of bin Laden, or any other leader on the world stage. I believe that, with an honorable man at the helm, should this nation need to mobilize for some terrible reason, whoever might attack us would find the result quite devastating. I believe that most Americans were expecting exactly that after 9/11 and feel betrayed by the Bush administration and their allowing bin Laden to escape while lying this great nation into a disastrous occupation that has nearly destroyed our country. In fact, GW Bush used fear mongering to get the “green light” from Congress to invade Iraq, and they continued to use this tactic for the rest of their administration to get whatever they wanted. Unfortunately, they had a Congress that was way too willing to fall for their tactics. During the first 6 years of Bush’s term it’s a bit easier for me to understand this because the Republican Congress was nothing more than a rubber stamp for whatever Bush/Cheney wanted (I hope to have a discussion about that subject one of these days; I believe part of the reason Congress was so willing under the Republican leadership was because of Dick Cheney and their knowledge of what he would do to any dissenters – but that’s a story for another day)

The capitulating in Congress after the 2006 election, when the Democratic party gained the majority in both houses, is much more difficult for me to understand. There were many cases of where the Democrats allowed themselves to go along with Bush/Cheney because they succumbed to the fear mongering. I’m going to start at the last example of this and maybe work backward, but my purpose is to demonstrate how important it is that we, as Americans, not allow our leaders to “scare” us into making decisions. I DON’T WANT TO FEEL LIKE THE TERRORISTS HAVE WON! Take for example the TARP bailout program for Wall Street. Now, this wasn’t directly connected to the 9/11 attacks, but the strategy Bush/Paulsen used to get it through came directly from what Bush and company had been using to get what they wanted since the World Trade Center/Pentagan tragedies – fear mongering. If you can remember that far back into history, Henry Paulsen and George Bush had convinced everyone in Congress and a solid majority of Americans that the stock market would “tank” (my word) and the banking system could fail if we didn’t act and act quickly. If you remember, Paulsen originally showed up with a three page proposal that would give him total authority of the money with absolutely no oversight.

Of course, the Democrats – being in control (or so it was supposed to be) – said “no way!” They made multiple public statements about how absurd it was for Paulsen (and Bush) to have the nerve to think they were going to get $700 Billion with no strings attached. All the “great” minds of the two parties got together (in fact, if you remember, John McCain “suspended” his campaign for President because this was so important – and he, with virtually no knowledge of our economy – was going to lead the Congress to a solution) and in a couple “hectic” weeks came up with the TARP (Troubled Asset Relief Program) bailout. This program was going to give the Treasury enough money to buy up the “toxic” assets of the major banks who were hemmoraging from the result of all the sub prime mortgages going bad. Once relieved of these assets, the banks were supposedly going to be able to start lending again. There was talk of some kind of program, once the TARP was in place, to provide relief for the millions of Americans who were losing their homes to foreclosure. Everyone hailed the legislation as vital to saving our economy from disaster.

Well, as we now know, ALL OF THIS WAS UNTRUE – AND AFTER 8 YEARS OF BUSH, SHOULDN’T WE HAVE EXPECTED EXACTLY THAT? First off, the stock market tanked even further – and by my calculations has a fair bit to go before the “moneychangers” get the point. As I’m writing this it’s at about 8000 and it was somewhere around 9 or 10,000 at the time of the “bailout.” Second, not a dime was spent on buying up the so-called “toxic” mortgages which was the original intent of the legislation. Which leads me to point number three; there were virtually no guidelines on how Paulsen could spend the money. As incredible as that seems, IT IS TRUE! I was aghast at the time, and that would be a mild descriptor of how I feel today. And I don’t know who to be more upset with: Henry Paulsen? George Bush? Dick Cheney? – by this point in time – I didn’t expect any of them to do anything that was honorable. And, of course, they didn’t! Paulsen went right to the “brothers” he has spent the past 20+ years prior to his stint as Treasury Secretary to almost force them to take government bailout “loans” which he called investments. More on that a bit later – it’s the Democrats who I believe need to get “what for” for this blunder. They had the majority. They didn’t have the courage to say no. How many times does someone have to “screw” you before you get the picture?

The Democrats caved, just as they had on the war, just as they had on torture, just as they had on warrantless wiretapping, and just as they seem to be doing today as far as any post-Bush accountability. Well, getting back to the TARP bailout funds and what happened to them should finally get the Democrat’s attention. If it doesn’t, I don’t know what will – THEY’VE GOT TO STOP WITH THIS IDEA OF “LOOKING FORWARD!” If they don’t start looking backward, and in detail, Bush/Cheney/Paulsen/et al will have gotten away with BY FAR the greatest heist in the history of this world. I’m not talking exclusively about TARP – but it’s just an example of the brazenous of these b@#%*$ds – and shows how important it is to finally get some accountability. The Democrats essentially gave Paulsen what he originally wanted. They managed to change the original three page proposal into one of considerably more pages that could have been written on the original three pages. There was no oversight provision, no accountability, and Paulsen was able to do with the funds (I guess the only thing they did that might be considered thoughtful, was they limited Paulsen to half of the money – ONLY $350 BILLION – UGHHH!) exactly what he pleased.

So what did we discover this week? The Wall Street banks who received bailout funds from the taxpayers – supposedly banks which would fail (and they were “too big to allow to fail”) – doled out, collectively, $20,000,000,000 in bonuses! I used the zero’s for anyone who doesn’t understand how big a billion dollars is. This comes after finding out that they used the money for just about anything except what was originally intended, to get the flow of money going in the credit markets. The only reason this isn’t criminal is because the Democratic Congress gave Paulsen and his buddies on Wall Street a green light to screw the American taxpayers. As I said in my last post – these are the guys that the people who drive around with “Support the Troops” and McCain/Palin bumper stickers on their cars are supporting. What’s more embarrassing and disgusting for me, I have a “vote Democratic” sticker on my car. The Republicans don’t give a second thought to stealing from the American taxpayer (they’re totally against welfare – unless it’s coming their way) while the Democrats keep bending over and letting the Republicans “have their way with them.” THIS IS FRUSTRATING! President Obama needs to stop pandering to these people and get on with things WITHOUT THEM! And he needs to demostrate a backbone to the rest of his party. Fear mongering has brought us the Iraq war, torture, illegal wiretapping and the “shredding” of the 4th amendment, TARP, and when I really think about it – the second term of Bush/Cheney – they essentially scared people into voting for them. I’ll try to make this clear; Unless we stop with the fear mongering, the terrorists win!

Tomorrow I’m going to do my first attempt at fulfilling President Obama’s request that all Americans do more volunteering and join with the members of my church, mostly Republicans I believe, in taking warm jackets and food to the homeless population in Portland, Oregon. I was thinking of this experience in a way that all these people who are going on this “mission” think so much differently about politics than me, but so much the same when it comes to feeling an obligation to help people in need. As I’m writing this, I understand that tonight’s discussion could go in many different directions, both because of my own beliefs and because of the tremendous and growing need in our communities for outreaches to people who are in financial trouble. I have friends that have lost their jobs already in the face of the deepening fiscal crisis in our nation, and others who feel it is just a matter of time until they lose their jobs. Those of us who are working are more than likely going to be getting reductions rather than increases in our pay and benefits, and the spiraling effects of what is happening nationwide is likely to put many people at risk of “losing” everything they have.

Today, I heard a report that the suicide rate for combat veterans from Iraq and Afganistan is spiraling upward as the economy spirals downward. All of those people who have “support the troops” stickers on their cars, next to the McCain/Palin stickers – at least the ones I’m listening to – have no idea what’s going on with the troops that are coming home from Iraq. It is very likely that many of the homeless people we serve tomorrow will be veterans from either of the present two conflicts or possibly vets from the Viet Nam conflict. There doesn’t seem to be too much of a national outrage – either Republican or Democrat – from the statistics that there are more than 200,000 homeless vets on the streets of the Untited States – and now the statistics are showing that many are just taking their own lives because of the pain and frustration associated with their return to “normalcy,” which for many of them is just not possible.

This, I think, gets me to the real thought I have for tonight. Yesterday, I read with some interest the so-called dilemma that Barrack Obama has regarding fulfilling his promise to get the troops out of Iraq in 16 months. The article I read claimed that should Obama carry through with that promise he risks creating a rift with the military personell who would be carrying out the orders. The person mentioned by name, Ray Odierno, the commander in Iraq who took over for David Patreus after the first year or so of the “surge” – is claiming we need an additional year – providing the situation remains stable. Now, I hope Obama does not allow himself to be intimidated by any Army General, or anyone else in the military. We will find out a lot about Obama as this issue plays itself out. I’m already feeling frustrated by the reports that President Obama is not going to allow thorough investigations of the Bush administration and what everyone knows was pervasive lawbreaking. But, if he caves to these generals, we are looking some major problems in the eye with a leader that will be answering a lot of questions from his base supporters.

And, as I’ve said many times on this site, don’t kid yourself about the Republicans. Obama can cozy up to them all he wants, but that will only get him farther away from his own supporters, and it won’t solve any problems with “progressive” solutions. I’ve been listening to a lot of Republicans since the election, and they clearly are still in denial as to what their policies have done to this country – and for that matter, due to The United State’s Global leadership position, the entire world. These Republicans need to be pushed to the sidelines while true liberal, or progressive, or whatever you want to call them – populist policies are implemented in an attempt to turn around a disaster that is hard to even imagine. Staying in Iraq one moment longer than promised, in my opinion, would be a HUGE mistake for Obama. Even letting on that he’s thinking along the lines of Odierno will only invite more violence in Iraq. Keep in mind that the ideal situation for al Qaeda is for the US to be bogged down in Iraq FOREVER. If they think we’re going to stay, unless the place remains stable, means they will do everything they can to create instability.

Is Odierno really saying that if that would happen we need to extend our commitment? That is absurd. The United States is going bankrupt – largely because of the waste of trillions of dollars on two misguided military adventures. We need to think of preserving our nation – not Iraq’s. They can, and should, handle it from here on out. If these generals are threatening some kind of insurerrection should Obama fulfill the promise that was critical in getting him elected, they should be immediately removed from duty. In the first place, the so-called surge received a lot of credit that should have gone to two other circumstances – the Awakening movement, where the US hired the insurgents who had been killing American troops to turn on “al Qaeda in Iraq.” The other was when Moqtada al Sadr decided to call a truce with his Madi Army – and then he went to Iran to go through whatever process he needs to go through in order to return as the “Grand Ayatollah.” No matter what we do, the end result in Iraq is going to be a nation which is allied with Iran and is going to be dominated by Shia Muslims. It is just a matter of time until violence, major violence in my opinion, breaks out in Iraq and there’s not much the United States can do about it. The sooner we get out the better.

There are so many better ways we can spend the 12 billion dollars a month that is going down the drain in Iraq. One of them would be to actually take care of our troops, if we really support them. Not only by providing educational opportunities for them when they return, but actually provide the medical, both physical and mental, needs they have when they return. It is a national shame for 200,000 vets to be on our streets homeless – while many of the people with the “support our troops” stickers on their cars also have the other stickers from the people who think we’re better off without government and thinking the only good idea for government is to cut more taxes. Well, I think we should raise taxes – it could be done immediately with a 50 cents per gallon tax on gasoline at the pump. Additionally, the “Bush tax cuts” (the only time in our nation’s history there were tax cuts in a time of war – think of it, borrowing the money to prosecute a war, while telling your citizens they could support the troops by “shopping” ughhhh) should be repealled IMMEDIATELY. Then we could pay for some of the stimulus package which should be passed sooner rather than later, but without the tax cuts that provide no more than a month or two of false impetus for the economy, and should be injected with more financing of infrastructure projects. And we should be finding a way to help these homeless vets to end this national shame. The way to show support for our vets shouldn’t be taking food and clothing to a homeless shelter!

We voted for change, and we are definitely getting change. I’m sure Barrack Obama understands fully that the people who formed his base are not at all like the Republicans that followed George Bush’s every whim like a bunch of sheep. I for one do not consider myself a Democrat. Even though I have a “Vote Democratic” sticker on the back of my car, I put the sticker there because I was fed up with the Republicans. I mean, GW Bush was kind of like the icing on the cake for me. Eight years of his administration was almost more than I could take. I’ve been fairly “connected,” at least in the sense of being a citizen who’s paying attention, since the early 1960’s. I was in high school when JFK was assasinated, I watched with interest as the Civil Rights movement gained momentum, I watched in horror at the deaths of Martin Luther King Jr. and RFK, and I have never been more glued to a TV set than during the Watergate hearings which exposed the original version of a president spying illegally on his citizens.

In the interim, I pulled for Jimmy Carter as he tried to get the original round of deficit spending (Nixon’s) under control and lost his job because he cared more about the lives of the Iran hostages than getting re-elected (I still admire him for this – he’s the only honest politician I can remember) and he took very difficult and courageous steps to remake the financial system and begin the process of extracating our country from the grip of the middle eastern oil barrens (of course Reagan repealed Carter’s CAFE standards soon after entering the White House – and we’re still paying the price for that one). Ronald Reagan, to me, was the disaster that keeps on “giving” so to speak. When I listen to any group of Republicans, it makes me sick to my stomach the number of times they refer to him. I mean, Reagan quadrupled the national debt before anyone realized that the only thing George HW Bush ever got right was naming supply side economics as “voodoo economics.” Reagan showed American corporations how to “trample” on their workers, he ushered in the “me” generation, and he was a great predecessor to GW Bush as a role model on how to ignore Congress and the American legal system. Reagan and those around him were bailed out (legally) by one term of GHW Bush and the reluctance of a somewhat weak President Clinton who understood that he gained office by the “skin of his teeth” and chose not to pursue accountability for Iran/Contra – where the seeds to all the corruption of GW Bush’s Presidency were sprouted.

I’ve watched in disbelief as a bunch of thugs, disguised as “conservatives” attempted to prove they could circumvent the founding fathers of this great nation and gain total control of our government, with the goal of a PERMANENT Republican “majority.” They first went after the air waves with the assault on reality from the likes of Limbaugh and those who have emulated him – and with the help of Bill Clinton signing into law the Telecommunications act of 1995 (I believe that was the year, it could have been 96). The result has been a constricting “news” media that has been effectively labled “liberal” but clearly controlled by a small circle of republican leaning corporations. They gained control of Congress in 1994 and would probably still have control but those Republicans, like Gingrich, Delay, Armey, and many others didn’t understand how strong the temptation would be to get sucked into the lucrative world of pork barrel politics. Additionally, many of the original Republicans in this self-proclaimed “revolution” had skeletons in their closets that far exceeded the weaknesses of their opponents which they went after like a bunch of sharks in a pool full of blood. One by one they have been dropping from sight as the truth about their own lives has uncovered a party based on power, greed, and ruthlessness.

GW Bush came along in 2000 being declared President of the world’s only remaining “super power” by a 5 to 4 decision of a Supreme Court which had been already packed with Republicans. With the addition of a couple more lifetime judges the Republicans were one term away from having a “right” leaning court for the next generation, and possibly longer. Everything was going right for their plan. Any reasonable person analyzing this plan almost has to give them credit, whoever conceived it, because they were on the verge of accomplishing what the founders tried to make virtually impossible. The biggest fear of the great men who set the foundation for this nation was tyranny by the majority – thus the complex set of checks and balances to prevent one ideology from dominating all others. And Ronald Reagan and George HW Bush weren’t what you’d call the scholarly type. Reagan was a “B” actor and Bush was the perverbial man born with a “silver spoon.” Neither really had the credentials to be President – which, I’m sure led whoever is really in charge of the Republican party to think that GW Bush would be just fine, despite his record of failure in almost every venture he had ever been part of. Their plan would work no matter who was President. The saving grace for the rest of us was that GW failed again. Now, I’m not one to root against anyone in the White House, and I have to say that after 9/11, despite my EXTREME misgivings about Bush right from the start, I was really pulling for him. Had he pursued bin Laden and avoided Iraq, I believe today’s discussion would be about another Republican, and they would have accomplished their goal. We would be stuck with Republicans for the forseeable future. Combined with the media stranglehold and the irregularities at the voting booths, those who are of my political persuasion would still be longing for “The change we need.”

Well, Obama REALLY IS DIFFERENT! I know I will be writing about many things I disagree with him on, and I’m very concerned about whether or not he is going to “look back” as he looks forward, but the first week has been a stark difference to say the least. He is actually fulfilling some of his campaign promises! The order to close Gitmo only took two days. Accountability rules for those in his administration were swiftly initiated and they were strict. He said he was going to “listen” to all sides and he’s doing that – including a trip to Capital Hill to lobby for his “stimulus package” meeting face to face with the dreaded (by me) Republicans. And today, his first interview since taking office was with a Middle Eastern news company broadcasting to the Muslim world. A bold and, I think, welcome “change” from the previous eight years. He’s making some comments and taking some actions that leads me to believe he’s actually going to go after bin Laden – as he said he would in the campaign – about six years after the fact – but in my mind, better late than never. I’m still trying to grasp my thoughts about Afganistan and Pakistan, but I can say with certainty that I have more confidence in Obama’s judgement than I ever could with Bush, McCain, or any other Republican (with the possible exception of the former senator from Nebraska Chuck Hagel – who I would personally be OK with as Secretary of Defense once Robert Gates is out at the end of this year).

Republican rule is over and if Obama turns out to be the “Change we need” I think the Republicans will be out for many years to come. I believe the citizens of this country understand the gravity of today’s circumstances and I think they fully “get” who is responsible for the situation. The question remains: Can the Democrats fix the problem? Obama will have to overcome his own party to get the job done. He has the clearest “mandate” I have seen in my lifetime and I expect him to use it in a calculated fashion. He understands the old saying “It’s the economy, stupid” and he knows that if he wants a second term, things have to be on the upswing within about three years. Based on previous recessions that wouldn’t seem so daunting, but this is the BIG ONE. We have a long way to go, and I’m in no way pledging my vote for Obama in 2012 just because he’s not Bush, I have high expectations for him, but he will have to earn my vote again. He promised us change, and he’s giving us change. It is going to happen gradually and in little pieces, most of the time – although the interview today may some day be looked upon as being huge and a turning point in our relations with the Muslim world – that remains to be seen. I’m still anxious to see Karl Rove before Congress, investigations of Bush, Cheney, Rumsfeld and others (not initiated by other countries – but by us taking care of our own mess), the repeal of the FISA intrusions into our lives and our constitution, and a stimulus package that invests in the future of this great nation by rebuilding its foundation. Once the stimulus package is in effect I am looking for Obama to have the courage to address the mindset of Americans that has led us to be the largest debtor nation in the history of the world – with the goal of reducing our national debt instead of increasing it. That all being said, after one week in office, I would still vote for Obama!

Oh my gosh, I had a wonderful weekend away, I return to work, and look at a couple news broadcasts – reality strikes; It’s back to dealing with Republicans. I’ve been saying for months on this site (and years altogether) that as long as the present group of Republicans control their party, negotiating with them makes no sense. I think it is wonderful that President Obama wants to unite everyone – I believe he sees himself as the progressive “Ronald Reagan” from the great communicator point of view. However, just as Reagan was a disaster for this nation – his initiatives actually either put in motion or accelerated the philosophies that have gotten us to this horrible spot we’re in economically – and believe me, if you don’t get it, we are in a crisis with a capital C! – the present version of Republicans are continuing the same old tired and failed rhetoric. Our economy is in a shambles and it’s the result of 30+ years of what the first George Bush called “voodoo economics.” It didn’t make sense when Reagan drove deficits to record levels and it made even less sense during a time of two wars during the previous administration of GW Bush as he instituted massive tax cuts during wartime, for those who didn’t need them, and told us to “shop” as our national sacrifice.

Now that they are the minority party, instead of trying to inject some actual conservative thinking into the budget debate – and I don’t mean of the voodoo economics nature – Republicans are going to be the antagonists and, at the very least, put the dream of a united country on hold. This just aint going to happen while Mitch McConnell, John Boenher (Boner), and the holdovers from the Bush years are in control of their party. I even saw John McCain on TV tonight trying to make it look like he had any idea what would be good for our economy. Of course, all you can get from any of them is more tax cuts. If we listened to them we would soon have a tax base comparable to the Federal Reserve rate which, if you’ve been paying attention, is at or near ZERO! These Republicans haven’t had a useful positive idea to share for years. They are so bought and sold by the multi-national corporations that despite the fact the meltdown of the economy is accelerating each day, they keep spewing the same old worn out worthless garbage.

Hopefully, people en masse will discontinue even listening to these greedy, self serving, hypocrites. People like Boehner, McConnell, McCain, Limbaugh, Hannity, Dobson, and I could go on, need to just shut up and let President Obama try to get us out of the worst fix since the Great Depression, and conceivably – if they don’t shut up – worse than that. WE ARE FAR FROM SEEING THE PEAK OF THIS PROBLEM! (or the bottom as the greed mongers of Wall Street call this magical spot where things turn around) For some reason these guys seem to think that as long as they still have jobs and flush bank accounts there is no problem. The two million or so who have lost their jobs in the last 12 months probably deserved it – and of course, the way to create new jobs and get them back to work would be massive tax cuts, “because the American people know better how to spend their money than the government.” This is so absurd in the face of what has transpired over the past year (eight years really – many of us saw this coming almost from the day Bush frittered away the surplus he inherited) that you’d think even these knuckleheads would be smart enough to stop with their vermin.

And to President Obama: stop listening to these thugs. They’re going to push you as far as they can – they really are a lot like the sixth graders I teach. Put a stop to this now! I’m no fan of Bill Clinton, but I will say this, he passed his initial budget with only Al Gore’s (the Vice President who is the President of the Senate) vote being the difference. Republicans whined for eight years that Clinton had raised taxes – AND THE RESULT WAS UNPARALLELED GROWTH IN THE ECONOMY AND A BALANCED BUDGET THAT WAS IN SURPLUS WHEN CLINTON LEFT OFFICE. Who cares if McConnell and Boenher spend their time whining for the next eight years – I guarantee you they’ll be whining whether you cut them out of the negotiations or not. YOU DON’T NEED REPUBLICANS TO PUT THE RIGHT POLICY INTO PLACE! And I’d say the first place to start is to eliminate the $300 Billion of tax cuts in the present proposal – as a response to their obsructionism, and because it’s the right thing to do – and spend the money on projects that not only create jobs but create infrastructure that will be around when my granddaughter is an adult.

Invest the money in R&D for alternative energy. Provide funds for the American auto industry to retool into an industry that produces the best fuel efficient cars in the world – and saves the United Auto Workers as the antithetical statement to Reagan’s initiative to destroy America’s Unions, beginning with the Air Traffic Controllers. Invest in Schools, roads, bridges, and creative ideas from citizens with the courage to find new ways to solve old problems. These republicans are not only going to fight your economic stimulus package to the bitter end, they’re going to fight everything you do. Your success means their demise – and believe me when I say this, they would rather save themselves than save the country. That is why they couldn’t get out of Iraq. It would have meant admitting to a huge mistake. So they’re going to try to manipulate the media in a way that will allow them to place the blame on everything that happens this year on YOU! And there’s going to be a lot of stuff to place blame for and you know THEY WON’T LOOK IN A MIRROR WHEN FIGURING OUT WHO CAUSED ALL THESE PROBLEMS.

Additionally, this is why the reports are surfacing that they are blocking the confirmation of Eric Holder for Attorney General without some kind of assurance from him that he won’t prosecute Bush and company. As absurd as that sounds, I believe it’s probably true. Even if they can’t pull something that ridiculous off, they will try, because all Republicans fully understand the gravity of the potential investigations. And in the same light as why you can’t negotiate with these people, you MUST allow Holder to do exactly what they are afraid of – investigate the previous administration, and prosecute any wrongdoing that is uncovered which violates our laws and our constitution. President Obama – I know you understand how serious this problem is, and I admire that you have the patriotic spirit to take this on and try to fix something that is possibly irretrievably broken. I love this country and I’m pulling for you with all my heart – but part of what has made the problem so grave is a Democratic Congress that is – I hate to use this word, but I can’t think of another one which is adequate to the grave circumstances – cowardly! The Republicans are so used to pushing the Democrats around they think they can just continue doing it no matter the realities we’re all facing.

Stopping their behavior, empowering the courage of those in your party, and if we are to have any chance of pulling ourselves out of this quagmire without even more severe damage will require something we haven’t seen for decades in this country – REAL LEADERSHIP! You’ve given me the hope that you understand the “buck stops here” theory of leading, and I get the sense that you do have enough courage to make the hard choices which lie ahead – but don’t cow down for even an instant to these Republicans. I heard you say the other day “I won” apparently in response to some disagreement with Republicans invited to infuse ideas at the “table.” I think you should rephrase that to “We won!” and let the Republicans know that you are fully prepared to move on without them and you and the Democrats have the support of a strong percentage of the nation. Your stimulus package includes $300 Billion in tax cuts for a nation that is bankrupt and already not paying its bills – if that doesn’t make them happy, believe me nothing will. Mr. Obama, you don’t need Republican help to get our economy back on track. In fact, you might be better off without it.

One thing that I’m determined to do in my life, in the midst of so many things which seem to be “wrong,” is to keep reminding myself of all the things I need to be thankful for.  Despite the things I’m frustrated about as an American citizen, I know that I am privileged to even be making all these arguments. That being said, here comes another “side” of me – if by chance you’ve been reading any of my posts. Now, I’m not going to get into any kind of proselityzing, but I could conceivably categorize myself as part of the Christian “Left.”  I am a strong believer in the concept of “the separation of church and state,” in fact, I believe it is that concept which is the foundation of this great country.  Many of my friends would probably fall into the “Christain Right” camp, which pretty much leads me to talk to them about things other than politics.  However, this past weekend I’ve had the opportunity to spend two days with my wife and a couple who are in the “family” category when you consider who your friends are. We had the opportunity to stay in a really cool home at the beautiful Oregon Coast (a place called Bella Beach – I highly recommend it).  My wife and her good friend spent a day at the ocean looking for treasures which allowed the two “guys” to have a conversation which I would put in the “we’re solving the world’s problems” grouping as conversations go.

My friend (the other guy) once apologized to me – because he originally was upset with my anti-Iraq stance at the beginning of the invasion – by telling me, after about a year of the occupation, that the only way he could see stability returning to Iraq was to release Saddam Hussein (obviously this was said prior to Hussein’s execution).  I believe it was around this time when he realized you could be “conservative” (whatever that means anymore) and disagree with Republicans. We agreed (this weekend) that the “block” of Christians who vote republican and comprise the “base” of the republican party was problematic, to say the least. Many vote in “lock step” based on their belief that the republicans are somehow going to end the abortion crisis in America. What ends up happening is these people are voting for politicians who initiate policies that are very “un-Christian” unknowingly. Both of our wives reinforced our discussion when they returned from their adventures at the ocean, once we shared a bit of our discussion, by claiming that abortion must be stopped and they didn’t want to talk about anything that resembled politics.

It is my contention that this kind of mindset comes from members of the clergy getting involved (way over their heads) in politics. What most Christians don’t “get” is that James Dobson, Pat Robertson, Falwell (prior to his death) and others are big business billionaires and they, in my mind, are “dirty” because of their connection to the now departed Bush administration and the insiders of the Republican party. In my mind they’ve traded their integrity for access to power – very politician like. I don’t pretend to know the details of how involved they were in the decisions of GW Bush, but I’ve read enough reports of Dobson, for example, participating in direct meetings in the White House and in secret meetings with other “wealthy” members of the Clergy (actually connected in some way to Eric Prince and Blackwater) to raise multiple “red flags.” In fact, I can no longer allow myself to listen to any of Dobson’s radio programs – because I am totally convinced that he is one of the perpetrators of the divisiveness of the recent past – if you listen to his “Focus on the Family” you will often hear how they separate the world into “conservative” and “liberal” with liberal evidently being a dirty word.

These thoughts I’m putting forth to frame my concern for the coming debate (or so it seems based on all the “right wing” emails coming to our mailboxes – my wife and I) on the so-called “Freedom of Choice” act – which according to the emails I’ve seen will legalize all forms of abortion – without any restrictions, will lead to government funding of abortion, and will overturn any state laws that may be on the books as I’m writing this post. I have no idea how much of this is true – even whether or not the bill is even “on the books.” However, as I read the emails, I thought that to quell my own conscience, I’m going to have a mini discussion of the issue on my Blog – as usual probably a discussion with myself – but if for some strange reason you happen by, please feel free to comment. The reason I’m commenting is because I believe that maybe, with President Obama at the helm, we can have a national dialogue on this issue that deals with realities and facts – and tries to come up with a solution that at the very least reduces the demand for abortions.

First of all, I have found it intriguing, to say the least, for the last 35 years (yes, I can still remember the day when Roe v Wade -well, it’s kind of hazy, but I was around and paying attention at the time – was decided in 1973). This was about 4 years after my first attempt at college (fortunately, the second attempt ended in success) and it was still fresh on my mind how friends of mine at school, during the 60’s age of “free sex,” seemed to be using abortion as a form of birth control. I remember one roommate in particular who paid for three abortions in the two years I was at the school. As I remember, the cost at the time was $75. And I can guarantee you that many of the people who have joined the “pro-life” movement of today – part of the “hippie” movement of the sixties probably participated in this practice (I realize that probably and guarantee don’t go together, but I hope you know what I mean – a lot of people have changed the way they think since those days). I am very thankful that I was never in a position to have to make that choice, mostly because – as I shared with my friend this weekend – I wasn’t much of a “ladies man.” But, I’ve often thought what would I have done? It is these thoughts that keep me a bit grounded on my position because I’ve never had to make the choice – I really don’t want to adopt a “holier than thou” position on the subject – yet, despite the fact most people consider me a liberal and I did vote for Democrats across the board in the last election, I consider myself pro-life.

To me, pro-life doesn’t mean that somebody else doesn’t have the right to have their own position on this VERY DIFFICULT issue. And I think the point of my thoughts of tonight, and this weekend, is that I hate the fact that the abortion issue has led so many Christians to vote for corrupt republicans. For example, take Tom Delay – the guy is right up to his elbows in corruption – right in his home state of Texas, along with corruption in his connection with Jack Abramoff in Washington DC – yet his “base” is the “Christian Right.” Delay was instrumental in the pillaging (along with Abramoff) of Micronesia, for one example – where Multi-national corporations have turned the place into a combination destination resort for rich people – especially politicians – and sweat shops which recruit workers from underdeveloped countries and puts them into virtual slavery under terrible conditions. Additionally, politicians like Delay, promote the Cayman islands as a “destination” for US corporations who don’t want to pay taxes. I could go on and on – and I’m not trying to make this a Democrat vs Republican thing here – because the Democrats are not “clean” by any means – my point is that the abortion issue is one issue – and in the 35 years since Roe the Republicans have held the White House for 23 of those years and it’s still on the books.

The fact that you have this huge “block” of Christian voters is WRONG! Christians, like every other citizen, should be paying attention to their government and deciding on who to vote for individually based on ALL the issues. The idea of pastors getting up on the pulpit and “recommending” who you should vote for is TERRIBLY WRONG! This is how Hitler came to power in Germany. That is why our founders were so adamant about separating the Church from the State. That doesn’t mean, as in this situation, that issues so relevent to Christians shouldn’t be part of the mainstream discussion. I’m just maintaining that the discussion shouldn’t be Republican vs Democrat – it should be a discussion based on the realities of today’s world.

Getting back to the discussion of abortion, it has always bothered, baffled, and beguiled me how the debate continues to get twisted and manipulated according to whoever seems to have the “mike.” I can tell you that it is a fact that the requirement for a human being to live is oxygen and food. There can be little debate that once an egg and sprem cell unite, the only thing it needs to grow is food and oxygen which is provided by the mother. And the reality is that it takes a father to produce the sperm cell, but once it unites with the egg, the father is pretty much out of the picture as far as getting the baby to term – it’s all on the mother. Now, I realize that the father might be driving the mother to the doctor’s office, the hospital, and other such duties – but the reality is that it’s all on the mother after conception.

This in itself makes me feel unqualified to come up with the solution to the problem of abortion (if you haven’t figure it out yet, I’m of the father type). This is going to be a VERY DIFFICULT national discussion. But I believe it must happen, and I also believe that women need to be taking the lead in the discussion. However, no matter who’s taking the lead, I hope they deal in facts and rational thinking. The most important fact that I think just needs to be “accepted” is that once conception has occurred, you have a human life. THEREFORE, AN ABORTION TAKES A HUMAN LIFE. I don’t see how you can see it any other way. I’ve heard lots of discussions that try to place a date on when the fetus becomes “human” but that seems preposterous to me. That then makes the rest of the discussion so much more important. I don’t know what the answer to this problem is – and I’m not naive enough to think that with the repeal of Roe v Wade (which I don’t believe will happen) abortions would stop – they were happening all the time prior to Roe – in fact I believe Roe was an attempt to provide women with a safe procedure in a clean clinic or hospital. Again, I’m thankful that I’ve never had to make this choice (I believe I would choose life under any circumstances unless my wife’s life was in jeopardy) – but as President Obama is trying to “unite” Americans, the “Freedom of Choice” act is liable to cause a lot of divisiveness.

My suggestion is to call abortion what it is – stop sugar coating it – and then have a national debate on how to create circumstances where the demand for abortions is minimized. The discussion will be so complicated. What happens to women after having an abortion? What happens to unwanted children? What are possible ways to minimize abortions? Is our government willing to fund alternative solutions (I personally know of pro-life clinics which could be much more effective in helping women with unwanted pregnancies if they had the funding)? Is our nation ready to admit that this is a shameful problem that we can no longer ingnore? Is it possible that the “Freedom of Choice Act” could spur a debate which would actually reduce abortions in America?