The Progressive Post

Sarah's Pawn, Vaughn Gone!

2010-05-26T09:51:00.000-07:00

So, Sarah Palin's hand picked candidate Vaughn Ward for Idaho's first district went down hard. Nice to know Idaho voters want leaders who take their own stands, write their own speeches and know United States geography. It appears, anger at Washington isn't a strong enough platform to run on.

This is bad news for a certain 1/2 term northern governor who has visions of high office.

Blame Game

2010-05-21T11:39:00.000-07:00

Rand Paul says its un-American for President Obama to place blame on British Petroleum for what could be the worst oil spill in American.

Why do we always have to assign blame for events? Sometimes things just happen Mr. Paul believes

In a related matter, Mr. Paul spent much of the previous day diffusing a tempest he unleashed when stating that he doesn't believe the federal government has a role in preventing discrimination in private businesses.

Mr. Paul blamed the 24 news cycle, while his father Ron Paul pointed at the "liberal media" for his son's recent beatings in the press.

Funny what happened to things sometime just happen?

Congressional Sex Scandal? Look for the Christian CON

2010-05-18T10:27:00.000-07:00

Well, another RepubliCON is resigning from Congress. Mark Souder the holier than thou CON from Indiana has admitted to a "mutual" relationship with a part time staffer. Mark, like other CONS, blames others rather than his own choices for his troubles.

The scene is all too familiar.

Conservative Christian CON makes career of promoting moral values and questioning the morals of others ~ Check
Christian CON has affair with staffer ~ Check
Christian CON admits to affair after it was becoming public ~ Check
Christian CON blames others for troubles ~ Check
Christian CON asks for privacy ~ Check
Christian CON commits to repairing damage to family and friends ~ Check
Christian CON swears abstinence message still valid despite repeated failures of the messengers ~ Check
Christian CON holds press conference and takes no questions ~ Check

Good bye Mark. You won't be missed.

2010 off to a good start!

2010-01-04T12:25:00.000-08:00

The New Year is starting off great. Two more RepubliCON House members (Radanovich and Brown) announced their plans to not run for reelection bringing the total number of GOP who are abandoning ship to 14.

This should make it all but impossible for the GOP to retake the House. Enjoy another couple years in the wilderness CONS.

GOP Health Care RX: Stay the Course

2009-09-09T09:22:00.000-07:00

Sarah Palin is at it again, this time providing her sage insight on the health care debate. Her argument against health care reform boils down to be afraid of the Obama death panels and government can do little right. "Common sense tells us that the government's attempts to solve large problems more often create new ones," she says. Other than defeating the Nazi's, building an interstate highway system, putting a man on the moon, running the national parks, managing western reclamation projects, she may have a point.

It's sad though not surprising to see the GOP pushing a fix which calls for little more than limiting public access to legal remedies and undefined profit driven programs. Never mind that profit driven decisions helped create the current mess. Palin's bleating op-ed is basically a giant "so what, be afraid because government management will only make it worse."

America's health care system is flat lining and the best GOP solution is "stay the course." The definition of insanity is repeating the same behavior and expecting a different result. It sounds like Plain and the GOP could use a good psychiatrist.

Chillin with Alberto

2009-08-12T10:36:00.000-07:00

Former Attorney General Alberto Gonzales says any investigation into whether CIA interrogations after 9-11 crossed legal lines could have a chilling effect on U.S. anti-terrorism efforts.

Maybe. But one thing is for certain, it will put a chill any ongoing criminal anti-terrorism efforts.

Yet either way, one gets the impression Alberto is less concerned about a potential criminal investigation and its chilling effect on future anti-terrorism actions, and more worried about the real possibility it may lead to his own incarceration in the cooler.

Run don't walk

2009-08-02T14:54:00.000-07:00

Rumors about Sarah Palin's pending divorce were circulating this weekend. A spokesperson for the ex-governor denied the Palin's marriage was on the rocks, assuring the public it's not like Sarah "to walk out on a commitment."

Putting aside that it may be Todd seeking to end the relationship, other than leaving several colleges, the Wasilla Mayor's office, the Alaska Oil and Gas Commission and the Governorship, we agree its not like Sarah to walk out. Rather, her record seems more like running.

Happy Days are Here Again!

2009-07-27T14:11:00.000-07:00

The Dow is over 9,000, new housing sales are up, Sarah Palin no long holds any official reins of power and another republiCON Senator is retiring. Things are really looking up!

Palin: Alaskan for throwing in the towel?

2009-07-27T08:56:00.000-07:00

Sarah Palin abandoned the people of Alaska over the weekend "stating I feel great." Since Ms. Palin no longer holds any official governmental authority, many share the feeling.

Michael Steele or Inspector Clouseau?

2009-05-22T11:42:00.000-07:00

RepubliCON National Committee chair Michael Steele dropped another dozy today. Get this, Steele claims President Barack Obama was not properly investigated prior to assuming the White House.

Michael seems to have forgotten the near constant investigation of Obama's past during the campaign including the President's supposed terrorist ties, his questionable US citizenship or his liberal voting record.

Michael's claim that enough isn't known about Obama is a slap in the face to the majority of Americans who voted for the President. Obviously, these peopel believed they knew enough to cast a vote for commander in chief. Insulting millions of Americans is a funny way for Mr. Steele to endear the GOP with the public. It's no wonder the party's popularity continues to slide.

Grand Sorry Old Party

2009-05-12T16:14:00.001-07:00

RepubliCONS just keep eating their own. RNC chairman Michael Steele recently stepped into another fiasco when he asserted that Mitt Romney lost the GOP nomination because of the intolerance of the party's base members toward Romeny's Mormon faith.

Highlighting this intolerance, Steele offered he regrets the way his comments have been interpreted. Really? Steele is sorry about how his comments were interpreted, rather than their offensive implications.

And the GOP wonders why a shrinking number of people identify themselves as part of the party. Good luck CONS.

GOP's Haunting Specter

2009-04-28T14:42:00.000-07:00

The republiCON party lost another Senator today. Pennsylvania Senator Arlene Specter, who has represented this state for the GOP for five terms will now join the Democrats.

RepubliCON party Chairman Michael Steele basically said good riddens to the former loyal GOP foot solider stating the Senator Specter was likely to lose the GOP primary because of his voting record.

Others however point to the GOP's strident rhetoric and intolerance as forcing out of the party more moderate voices like Specter. Senator Specter's defection reveals the GOP big tent claims as less bigtop and more of pup tent.

It appears the GOP is now doing to itself what it did to the country for the last eight years. It couldn't happen to a more deserving party.

Sarah Failin Fast!

2009-04-02T11:01:00.001-07:00

Back in January, the Progressive Post made a series of predictions for 2009. Our number 6 prediction is that the Con's love affair with Sarah Palin would sour. It seems this prediction is coming to pass. Must be hard for team Palin to see themselves pushed off the national stage by someone who hasn't held national office in nearly ten years. This latest gaffe says alot about Palin's stumbling attempts to grab the GOP mantle, as well as the continued lack of leadership in the republiCON party. teehee.

Fred Knows Failure

2009-03-25T14:54:00.000-07:00

Former Senator Fred Thompson says he wants President Obama's policies to fail. Putting aside the fact that if his policies fail, it likely means additional tough economic times for the country, Fred's pronouncement has got to have President Obama worried.

Because if anyone knows about failed political efforts (see here and here), its Fred.

Poor ANNual Sales

2009-03-13T13:02:00.000-07:00

Finally some good economic news!

It's going to be a long fight

2009-03-06T20:08:00.000-08:00

Fox News reports there is a fight brewing within the GOP over the soul of the party. This battle will likely take some time since they first will have to find it.

This makes it unanimous!

2009-02-17T11:58:00.000-08:00

Cheney furious with Bush.

CONS to Obama: Talk to the Hand

2009-01-28T10:41:00.000-08:00

President Obama and the Democrats are trying to work with the republiCONS why? Funny one would think the CONs believe they won the last election. During his inaugural address Obama mentioned his administration willingness to work with various interest.

The question before the Obama administration now is what does it do when the extended hand is met with a fist?

Limbaugh: He protests too much!

2009-01-27T08:40:00.000-08:00

According to Rush Limbaugh President Barack Obama is "afraid" of him. Really? Why should Obama be afraid of the right wing, pill popping blowhard. Limbaugh wasn't able to derail the Obama campaign. Although, he tried to do so over and over and over. Its likely Barack Obama, now President with the legal authority to exercise his vision for America, worries little about Limbaugh's attempts to keep himself relevant and in the spotlight.

What stimulates Brit? Obviously Not History

2009-01-22T08:17:00.000-08:00

Fake News Anchor Brit Hume was all a lather on inauguration day. Hardly after the cheering crowd of millions had dissipated, Brit was harping on President Obama's plan to stimulate the economy with new federal spending. He goes so far as to ask whether federal investment has ever worked to benefit the economy.

Other than federal appropriations for programs like the Louisiana Purchase, the Homestead settlements, the West's reclamation, the interstate highway system, the GI Bill, Space exploration and development of the Internet (just to name a few off the top the the head), Brit may have a point.

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Bush Legacy? Barack Obama!

2009-01-19T12:23:00.000-08:00

President Bush isn't even out of the White House yet and the rewritting of history is already in full swing. Take this pap from Tara Wall deputy editor of the Washington Times and Bush apologist. It seems Tara believes the rejection of Bush and all things RepubliCON these past several months is just whining of a few crazy liberals. Funny the "crazy liberal" demographic now makes up 65 percent of the country.

The "crazy liberal" demographic aside, Tara quotes Secretary Rice who believes Bush's Presidency will be vindicated by history. Secretary Rice points to the President's keeping the homeland safe. In fact, President Bush himself summed up his adminstration thus, "President Bush was the president at a time when our nation was attacked, he clearly saw the dangers, he pursued the enemy, he put tools in place so the professionals could better protect the people, and the homeland was not attacked." However, the President is asking the American public to forget that he clearly didn't see or didn't care about the pending threat posed by Al Queda prior to 9/11!

It's also interesting that Rice, Wall and Bush's definition of safe is limited to preventing a repeat attack. However, the Bush administration's action facilitated the worst economic crisis since the great depression, sunk the nation into an unnecessary quagmire war, worsened the Katrina disaster and on and on and on. These actions have hardly made the nation "safer." In fact, it could be argued the country is in its worst position since the Civil War.

In the long run, Bush might get credit for creating the conditions that made the election of Barack Obama possible. A small silver lining in an otherwise dark cloud of a presidency. Good on you Bush!

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Minority Blues

2009-01-12T15:15:00.000-08:00

Ohio republiCON Senator George Voinovich announced his decision to not seek a third term. Voinovich joins three other CON senators (Mel Martinez of Florida, Kit Bond of Missouri and Sam Brownback of Kansas) who won't seek relection in 2010. Rumors are that others like Kay Bailey Hutichson of Texas may leave the Senate as well.

Voinovich said in a statement that the demands of fundraising for relection and focusing on the needs of the country is too diffcult.

However, its more likely a combination of CONS' sinking approval ratings and the reality of being a longterm minority are really causing the good Senators to seek greener pastures.

TPP 2009 Predictions

2009-01-04T09:08:00.000-08:00

Pat Robertson is making his annual predictions. I guess he has forgotten about the Bible's admonition against sooth saying and fortune telling.

However following Rev. Robertson lead and risking eternal damnation here are The Progressive Posts 2009 predictions:

RepubliCONS will strongly profess new faith in bi-partisan congressional action.
Despite their new faith in cooperation, CONS will obstruct (filibuster) many significant and needed bills throughout the year.
CONS will unceasingly question/undermine President Obama's policy in Iraq, Afghanistan in particular and the war on Terror in general. Least we forget, during the Bush administration this questioning of war aims was called treasonous unAmerican behavior.
CONS will push little more than union busting and tax cuts for the rich as "solutions" to the current economic crisis.
The RepubliCON party will continue to wallow throughout the year without real national leadership.
Despite an ongoing leadership vacuum, the CON base's love affair with Sarah Palin will sour.
Lacking a positive foreign policy vision, CONS will try to turn a minor international event into a major foreign policy crisis for the Obama administration.
The current Blogo scandal will have been forgotten long before this time next year.
Cons will scream that Roland Burris (a person who has been appointed) should be seated in the Senate, while opposing Al Franken's (a person elected to the chamber) joining the upper House.
Most of Pat Robertson's 2009 predictions will not come to pass.

Looking forward to the New Year!

George Bush and Laissez Faire, not so much

2008-12-21T11:08:00.001-08:00

It always interesting to see conservatives ditch their principles when economic reality smacks their ideology in the face. So much for free market capitalism.

George Bush: We'll Miss You

2008-12-11T09:55:00.000-08:00

A new NBC/Wall Street Journal poll found that 18 percent of the American public will miss George Bush when he leaves office on January 20th.

Who knew America has that many political comedians?

NRA: Shooting blanks

2008-12-09T10:58:00.000-08:00

On its way out the door, the Bush administration is gutting public safeguards like fish. Most recently, Bush and company killed the Park Service's common sense rule that requires all firearms transported in national parks to be stowed and unloaded. The Reagan era rule was enacted in part to prevent poaching. However, the NRA appears to have reached into the White House and used its supposed political power to ram through a rule change that would allow loaded and concealed weapons.

For years the NRA has thrown its weight around in Washington D.C. killing just about every needed gun control measure over the past few decades. It did this in part by scaring legislators and administrative officials alike with its perceived political power. Yet, does the NRA have that much political weight?

During the public comment period on the Park Service proposed rule, it was believed the NRA would flood the Park Service with millions of letters calling for the change. This didn't happen. In fact, the NRA was only able to muster about 40,000 letters. By comparison, conservation and law enforcement groups which opposed the changes, produced more than twice as many comments.

Furthermore, the NRA saw its power on Capitol hill take a significant hit this past November. Of the 18 NRA endorsed Senate races, NRA candidates won roughly half those contests. More troubling for the NRA, their endorsements in tight races in states like Colorado, North Carolina and Alaska went 0-6. Ouch!

However, what probably most reveals the NRA's waning influence is that it choose not to endorse candidates in 16 other Senate races. This despite the fact that in many of these contests such as that in Massachusetts, the Democratic incumbent was given an F on their gun voting record. This should have been a no brainer for the NRA, yet it chose to punt on this race.

Does the NRA deserve its political deference? Hardly. In fact, its quite clear the organization is running low on political ammo.

GOP to America: No You Can't

2008-12-02T09:09:00.000-08:00

Recently, right wing blow hard Glen Beck interviewed republiCON Senator Saxby Chamblis. Glen asked Saxby if Georgia voters understand what's at stake in today's run off election. Saxby said republiCONS' goal in Congress is "to stop bad legislation or shape bad legislation." Wow! Stopping or shaping bad legislation is the new republiCON vision. It appears liberal America has "Yes we can!" while conservatives are reduced to "No we can't!"

This from the party that just a few short years ago was dreaming of a permanent legislative majority. My how they have fallen!

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House RepubliCONs meet your new boss. . .

2008-11-24T08:46:00.000-08:00

RepubliCON candidates took it in the shorts this past November 4th across the country. They lost the White House in an electoral landslide and saw the Democrats increase their overwhelming majorities in both the House (nearly 20 seats) and the Senate (8 seats).

So, what do House RepubliCONS do as one of their first orders of business after such a crushing defeat, according to CQ reelect John Boehner as their leader. It appears Mr. Boehner has convinced House CONS that his driving the republiCON party off a cliff is actually flying.

Good on you CONs!

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Be sure to check out the latest Obama stuff!

Taking the Week off

2008-11-08T09:08:00.000-08:00

The Progressive Post is taking the next week off to recoup from the glorious electoral victory. See you after the 17th!

In the meantime, be sure to check out the latest Obama stuff!

Pardon Us

2008-11-06T07:35:00.000-08:00

Now that the election is over, much of the media attention will rightly focus on the Obama transition. Who will fill this Cabinet position? What's President-elect Obama's take on Russian missile deployment? However, George Bush is still president for roughly 3 more months. And with a decreased media scrutiny it will allow the him to slip many bad things past a distracted public and press.

Not the least of which is there may be a slew of pardons, basically condoning the culture of corruption that gripped GOP rule the last eight years. GOP felons like Ted Stevens, Scooter Libby, Steven Griles, Randy Cunningham, Jack Abramoff, or indicted CONS such as Tom Delay and law benders such as Karl Rove, Monica Goodling and Dick Cheney are likely licking the president's boots for a get out of jail free card.

The only real question left is: Will Bush give a card to himself?

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Be sure to check out the latest Obama Stuff!

republiCON's Biggest Losers

2008-11-04T21:42:00.000-08:00

The 2008 elections were a huge loss for John McCain, at a minimum a 180 point electoral college defeat. A drubbing by any one's standard. Yet, John McCain wasn't the night's biggest loser. We've basically known since September he was going to get crushed in his bid for the White House.

Rather, it was the others like the RNC, Joe Liberman, the Alaska GOP who really took it in the shorts tonight.

The republiCON national committee (RNC) saw their ranks on capitol hill drop by what will likely be dozens in the House and 5 or more in the Senate. Combined with the Obama win, Democrats will control the White House and Legislature for the first time in decades. Furthermore with several Supreme Court retirements expected, the High Court will lean to the left for years to come.

Joe Liberman took it on the chin as well. Joe, who once was poised to be the Democratic Vice President, now faces final excommunication from the party, loss of his committee chairmanship, and soon to be banishment to the basement of the Senate office buildings. How long before his retirement?

Next biggest loser are Alaska republiCONS. These poor northern CONS may wake up tomorrow morning with 2 out 3 of their congressional offices now held by Democrats. Yikes! What's more, Sarah Palin's botched run for Vice President may have severely damaged her ability to govern the state, so much so it may be only a matter of time before she steps down for greener pastures.

We can't forget FOX news. They have stumped hard for the McCain/Palin ticket. Their constant drumbeat of the McCain/Palin fear message was soundly rejected by the American public. And while it unlikely, its interesting to see FOX pundits worry about Obama and his return of the fairness doctrine. Although, if the network is truly "fair and balanced" its return shouldn't bother them in the least.

Yet, the biggest CON loser tonight has got to be George Bush. There could be no bigger repudiation of his eight years in the White House than the Democratic tidal wave that swept over the country today. The United States will likely heal faster from the damage the Bush administration has inflicted upon it, than the damage the out going President inflicted upon his own party.

That fact alone probably makes the American public tonight's biggest winner!

Elizabeth Dole: Soulless or merely Fascist?

2008-10-31T08:48:00.000-07:00

North Carolina Senator Elizabeth Dole is panicking. She is in a tight reelection fight with Democrat Kay Hagen. With an eye to the polls, Senator Dole accused Hagen of being "godless." Even going so far to run an ad that appears to have Hagen saying there is no God. The implication is obvious, a person who doesn't profess a faith in God isn't qualified to serve in Congress.

The problem is Kay does believe in God. She is an active member of her church. Heck, it isn't even her voice in the ad.

However, what if Kay didn't believe in God? Does that disqualify a Senate candidate? Hardly! The Constitution merely requires someone to be 30 years old and been a U.S. citizen for 9 years to serve in the Senate. Moreover, the Constitution bars any religious test to hold office.

What if the ad had instead inferred that Kay believed in Allah, the Great Spirit, or Zeus? What if it had implied she was a Buddhist, Jew or Hindu? All except the extreme rightwing fringe would likely agree those ads are offensive. Yet, Liddy feels she can go after a supposed atheist without so much batting an eye.

RepubliCON candidates and media hacks appear to take every opportunity to publicly profess their faith as superior to all others. Anyone else getting the sense the GOP has veered hard right, straight toward fascism in these final days of the election?

Sarah throws McCain under the Straight Talk Express

2008-10-30T08:38:00.000-07:00

Wow, Sarah Palin is really going off the McCain/Palin reservation. She is openly talking about a run for President in 2012. That's odd. It appears she's already admitting defeat. Perhaps she finally picked up a newspaper and read a few polls.

Wolf Blitzer stated Palin wants to remain a serious candidate into the future. Remain? That assumes she is a serious candidate now. Have we forgotten Sarah's Curic and Gibson interviews? This woman makes Dan Qualye look like Barack Obama.

Sarah Palin: Let's Pretend. . .

2008-10-22T10:17:00.000-07:00

In a recent response to a third grader's question about what is the role of the Vice President, Alaska Governor Sarah Palin said that the VP is in charge of the Senate. Unfortunately, for the good Governor, her answer is in conflict with the United States Constitution. The VP is President of the Senate, whose only official function is to break tie votes. It doesn't empower the VP with any authority over chamber deliberations.

Palin had to clarify her statement, saying she answered in a way a third grader would understand. Oh now its clear, it appears Sarah was playing let's pretend.

But don't worry Governor, after the Obama/Biden ticket wins this November you can always go back to Alaska and pretend to be VP.

Straight Talk Express' moral compass points to Bill Ayers

2008-10-21T09:42:00.000-07:00

Well it looks like the moral compass has been lost for the McCain straight talk express. Back in 2000, McCain was the victim of the Bush robo calls that inferred that he was the father of an illegitimate black child. McCain called these "hate calls" and vowed to never use such tactics.

Fast forward to 2008, McCain is behind in his White House run and as such has broken his promise to forgo robo calls.

Here is the text of the type of call McCain is currently running:

"You need to know Barack Obama has worked closely with Bill Ayers, whose organization bombed the U.S. Capitol, the pentagon, a judge's home and killed Americans."

On Fox News, John McCain defended these calls stating they are accurate. On that point, McCain is right. Barack Obama has worked with Bill Ayers. Obama severed on an anti-poverty committee with the Mr. Ayers, along with several other prominent Chicago citizens. It is also true that Bill Ayers bombed the U.S. Capitol, the pentagon, a judge's home and killed Americans. What it is not true is that Barack Obama helped Bill Ayers with those bombings.

However, the McCain ad leaves that impression.

That would be like saying:

"You need to know that during the height of the Vietnam war John McCain was in close contact with the North Vietnamese, enemy communists who fought U.S. armed forces, bombed our bases and killed Americans."

This statement is also technically correct. Was John McCain in close contact with North Vietnam during the war? Yes. Did North Vietnam fight U.S. armed forces, bomb our bases and kill Americans? Yes. Yet here is the important question, did John McCain support and aid the North Vietnamese war efforts. Absolutely not. However, someone ignorant of Senator McCain's record as a prisoner of war might draw a different conclusion.

Here's hoping McCain soon finds his compass, otherwise it looks like the express will remain in the ditch for the rest of the campaign.

America a center-right country? Or how the south really won the war

2008-10-19T11:30:00.000-07:00

On Meet the Press today, Joe Scarborough (former republiCON Congressman from Florida) stated that America is a center-right nation.

Really? Care to back that up?

National polls show Barack Obama winning the Presidential election, who according to National Journal is the Senate's most liberal member. Meanwhile, House and Senate races including those in predominantly republiCON states/districts of Alaska, Pennsylvania, New York, Virginia, New Mexico, North Carolina and Minnesota are all going the Democrats' way. Furthermore, citizen public opinion on issues such as religion favors the Democratic position over the CONS.

If this is what a center-right nation looks like, Joe better pray it doesn't turn liberal.

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McCain's Last Mission: Operation Frivolous Lawsuit

2008-10-16T09:52:00.000-07:00

The final Presidential debate is over and according to American public, Obama scores the hat trick. Three for three. McCain did his best to shore up the republiCON base making reference to Bill Ayers. In the end however, Obama put it best when he said that bringing up Ayers says more about the McCain campaign (desperate) than it does about Obama.

However, of more interest was Senator McCain's railing against ACORN. In a nutshell, republiCONS have their underwear in a bunch over supposed voter irregularities connected to ACORN voter registration efforts. Never mind that ACORN is reporting these irregularities to the authorities for investigation, McCain's "final solution" is coming clear. They can't win on the issues, or convince the public therefore the seeds are being planted for a whole scale legal challenge of the validity of any Obama victory.

Holy frivolous lawsuit Batman! Wonder how he will square it with his public opposition to other supposed bogus legal action?

GOP: Can't Get no Satisfaction

2008-10-14T09:15:00.000-07:00

Yesterday former Wisconsin Governor Tommy Thomson (republiCON) was asked if he is satisfied with the McCain campaign for President.

He answered bluntly "No," and "I don't know who is."

Come on Tommy you are not thinking very hard.

Here's a hint its roughly 53 percent of the country and growing.

John McCain: I know . . .

2008-10-08T07:39:00.000-07:00

John McCain seemed to be challenging Horshack from Welcome Back Kotter during last night's debate. "Ooh, ooh, ooh, I know, I know" was Senator McCain's standard response to nearly every question. In fact, Senator McCain said a variation of "I know" more than 20 times to questions ranging from fixing the economy to fighting terrorism and ending our dependence on foreign oil.

Wow! John McCain isn't Horshack he's Alan Greenspan, T.Boone Pickens and Superman all rolled up into one.

Thank God he's here just in time to save the country.

Let's go the the transcripts and drink in the wisdom of our new oracle of Delphi on how he'll right our ship of state.

Question: Would you give Congress a date certain to reform Social Security and Medicare within two years after you take office? Because in a bipartisan way, everyone agrees, that's a big ticking time bomb that will eat us up maybe even more than the mortgage crisis.

MCCAIN: Social Security is not that tough. We know what the problems are, my friends, and we know what the fixes are. We've got to sit down together across the table.

Stupid democrats don't you see all we have to do is force everyone to sit at a table. Duh! Of course that will magically solve social security. What's up with Obama, why does he hate sitting so much?

Let's turn to Bin Laden. John's got a crystal clear plan for capturing America's public enemy number one.

QUESTION: Should the United States respect Pakistani sovereignty and not pursue al Qaeda terrorists who maintain bases there, or should we ignore their borders and pursue our enemies like we did in Cambodia during the Vietnam War?

McCain: I'll get Osama bin Laden, my friends. I 'll get him. I know how to get him. I'll get him no matter what and I know how to do it.

Well, ahh that's a little short on the specifics. Oh, that's probably because John doesn't telegraph his punches. Or for those voters born after 1980, he doesn't IM his punches.

However, John's plan likely has something to do with his flying to the remote hills of Pakistan and capturing Bin Laden right after the oath of office.

Look out Green Berets, Navy Seals and the Delta Force it looks like the U.S. Special Forces are one of government programs John was referring to when he stated government spending would have to be scaled back. Makes sense, for once we have John in the White House, who needs them.

So in conclusion, John knows how to fix the economy, catch Bin Laden, end our dependence on foreign oil, save social security and probably make a mean souffle.

On second thought John isn't Horshack, Alan Greenspan, T. Boone Pickens, or Superman, sadly its become apparent what he knows is more like this guy.

Sarah Palin: Sleeping with the Enemy?

2008-10-05T15:40:00.000-07:00

Sarah Palin says its "fair" to go after Senator Obama for "palling around with terrorists" because Senator Obama shared a committee with a former member of the Weather underground. Never mind that the terrorist acts in question by the underground took place when Obama was eight.

Want to know what else is fair? Going after Sarah, who plays footsie with the Alaska Independence Party (AIP). AIP promotes, among other things Alaska's secession from the United States, in other words the break up of the union; a treasonous position. And unlike Obama, Sarah still actively "associates" with at least one former AIP group member.

VP Debate: Pass or Falin!

2008-10-01T06:32:00.000-07:00

With the Vice Presidential debate a little more than 24 hours away, conservative hacks are falling all over themselves to lower the expectations for Sarah Palin. Basically if Sarah doesn't drool while regurgitating her memorized lines, she wins.

However if Americans have learned anything these past eight years its this: the Presidency requires someone with more qualifications than that of a tape recorder with good table manners.

What McCain's help on the financial crisis is worth

2008-09-29T11:31:00.000-07:00

Nothing! Ouch!

It looks like Senator McCain's little campaign stunt failed in more ways than one.

Three things McCain Didn't Say at Tonight's Debate or His Hillary Swank Moment

2008-09-26T20:31:00.000-07:00

One. I'm a proud republican. This is not surprising given the tarnished image of the GOP.

Two. George Bush. Again not too surprising given the approval ratings of the republican president. McCain is doing everything he can to distance himself from his party and current standard bearer.

Third, and this is surprising. . . . Sarah Palin.

Are you kidding? Nope. Look here.

John McCain, who just a short four weeks ago told the world how impressed he was with Mrs. Palin, doesn't mention his running mate's name once during the nearly two hour debate.

Who's Senator McCain's debate coach, Hillary Swank?

By contrast Senator Obama made sure to give a shout out to Joe Biden, saying he was proud of his choice for vice president.

If Sarah is so impressive you'd think the man who picked her would want the millions of Americans tuned in tonight to know he's proud of his choice. Or at least he'd want Americans to know her name.

Actually on second thought, it's obvious why he failed to mention Sarah's name.

McCain's Walk and Chew Gum Momemt

2008-09-24T13:43:00.000-07:00

So, John McCain is suspending his presidential campaign because he wants to devote his full attention to the financial crisis. How convenient. Although, one has to wonder whether it isn't the Dow's falling numbers, but rather something else driving his latest desperate move.

To his credit, Obama is keeping the pressure on McCain, signaling his desire to move forward with Friday's scheduled presidential debate. It should go forward. Obama and McCain have dramatically different ideas about where the country needs go on countless issues including the economy. With the American public's attention tightly focused on the health of their economy, now is the perfect time for the two candidates to lay out their vision and plan for a return to economic prosperity.

Now more than ever, the country needs a President who can focus on more than one issue at a time. Our next President won't get any timeouts in the Oval office. By suspending his campaign, McCain is clearly showing he isn't up to the job's challenges.

Stick of gum John?

Obama's Message Resonating with Alaska Voters!

2008-09-22T14:06:00.000-07:00

Says who? Sarah Palin that's who.

Rah Roh! It looks like the Governor was for Obama before she was against him!

Help! My Dow has fallen and I can't get up!

2008-09-18T08:41:00.000-07:00

Where are the republiCON Social Security privateers now?

McCain's Short Term Memory

2008-09-12T19:28:00.000-07:00

During the recent republiCON presidential debates, flip flopping John McCain said that short term Mayors and Governors are not qualified to be President. Poor Rudi. Poor Mitt.

For we now know if only they had been both a short term Mayor (of one of America's smallest towns) and a short term Governor (of one of the nation's smallest states), John would announce to the world their qualification to lead the free world.

Flip Flop much!

Experience Smerience

2008-08-29T08:07:00.000-07:00

John McCain's response to Obama's inspiring acceptance at last night's final night of the Democratic convention was "he's still not ready to be president." Yet Sarah Palin (John's choice for Vice President) is. Sarah has been Alaska Governor for less than two years and is currently under investigation for abuse of power.

Great choice John.

Oh, PS. Remember when CONs were praying for rain during the last night of the Democratic Convention as a sign from God that the almighty disapproves of Obama's run for President. Well, the weather was great and the crowd was huge in Denver last night.

Guess God is ready for change as well.

Ben Stein's Funny Money

2008-08-26T09:41:00.000-07:00

Ben Stein, former Nixon speech writer and all around rightwing nut, has got some strange ideas like myth is science or Obama is channeling Der Fuhrer. Recently though in typical CONservative logic, he's pushing a rather odd definition of rich. In a nutshell, Ben believes the term only applies to those who make hundreds of millions or billions. And Ben's definition clearly doesn't include himself. Really?

In his interview on CSPAN, Ben lets slip he pulls down between $35,000 and $50,000 for each speaking engagement. According to the US Census Bureau, the median income of a typical U.S. family is roughly $50,000. So in basically one engagement Ben makes as much as the typical family. A quick google search reveals Mr. Stein made several keynote speeches this year. What's more, this income doesn't include money from other sources such as royalties from his movies and books.

So in one night, Ben Stein can make as much money as the typical American family, but Ben doesn't consider himself rich. There are probably a lot of people who would switch places with him.

What a tool!

GOP Convention: The Big "No" Show

2008-08-14T13:45:00.000-07:00

Recently Stuart Shepard, host of Focus on the Family's Spotlight and CONservative dolt, urged his viewers to "pray for rain" during Barak Obama's acceptance at this month's Democratic Convention. The speech will be given at Denver's Invesco field and is expected to draw more than 75,000 people. Stuart and other CONS are deeply worried about the message undecided voters will receive when Obama accepts his nomination before tens of thousands of enthusiastic Democrats.

You can't really blame Stuart though. You see, the Democratic Convention will likely have to turn away hundreds of people its last night rain or shine. Meanwhile, the republiCON convention, even though weather will play no factor, is having trouble gaining the attendance of even its prominent party leaders.

No wonder CONS are praying for a rain out, their team isn't likely to show.

James Dobson's Hold on the Truth

2008-06-24T11:40:00.000-07:00

James Dobson, leader of Focus on the Family, is objecting to Barak Obama's "interpretation" of the Bible and our government's founding document.

Nice thing about the United States' is that the Constitution protects every one's right to put forward their political opinion. In other words, no one holds the exclusive patent on the right to put forward their belief.

James might want to look into the mirror when next talking about a "fruitcake" interpretation of the Constitution.

Bad News for John

2008-06-03T13:52:00.000-07:00

The USA Today just came out with a new poll that shows Senator Barak Obama beating John McCain in a one on one match up. This has got to have repbuliCONS spewing their cornflakes.

For the past several months, John McCain has blasted Obama on foreign policy, the military and his church. Meanwhile, Obama had to also fight off Hilary Clinton in the primary battle.

Despite this two front war, Obama leads McCain in the USA Today poll by 3 points. An six point swing from just one month ago. One wonders how large the lead would be if Obama hadn't been fighting Hillary these past several months.

What Scott Believes

2008-05-28T14:49:00.000-07:00

Scott McClellan, former White House spokesman, is expected to release a tell all book next week. However, exerts have been leaked to the public and among the bombshell revelations, Scotty claims the White House was run in constant campaign mode, in denial regarding Hurricane Katrina and "surprise" trumped up the case for war in Iraq.

Former White House counsel Dan Bartlett states that McClellan betrayed the president's trust and asks "What did he really believe when he was serving as press secretary?"

Hmmm. . . Let's think about this.

Perhaps while press secretary Scotty believed America shouldn't go to war based on lies.

Or perhaps Scotty believed the Bush administration should worry more about disaster victims rather than its image.

Or maybe, just maybe Scotty finally realized as an American citizen ones true loyalty lies with the Constitution and the American public rather than an incompetent, wannabe emperor.

Update!

Not to let Scotty off the hook entirely, although its nice that he is finally listening to his conscience and telling the truth, his smack down of the failings of "liberal press" isn't entirely justified. While its true the mainstream media was complacent at best, a cheerleader at worst in the run up to the war, for Scotty to claim that a press corps that asked the right questions might have prevented the disaster is ridiculous.

First, its almost as if Scotty is stating that the administration would only tell the American public about issues related to media questions. Call it quaint but the federal government works for the public. If Scotty had information relevant to the sound workings of the government, he should have volunteered this information without question.

Next, many reporters did try to push McClellan on difficult subjects. Many, like Helen Thomas were smacked down. In fact, the White House went so far as to bring in fake reporters to lob Scotty soft ball questions, when press conferences got to heated.

Remember this guy?

Note from Scalia: Get Over it!

2008-04-25T10:36:00.000-07:00

In a wide ranging interview to be aired this weekend on 60 Minutes, Supreme Court Justice Antonio Scalia defends his decision in the 2000 case Bush vs. Gore which effectively anointed George Bush as president. Scalia's answer to people who express continued concern over the wisdom of this decision: "Get over it. It's so old by now."

Really?

One wonders if Scalia would have the nads to tell the victims of Hurricane Katrina to get over his decision. A decision that led directly to significant loss of life across the gulf coast. Or how about telling it to the thousands of families who've sacrificed love ones in the president's misguided war.

In the end, why does Scalia care if the American public gets over his decision? Could it be continued questioning of the righteousness of Bush vs. Gore nags at his conscience? Unfortunately, that assumes he has one.

Fake News: We Distort so You Don't Decide

2008-03-20T21:15:00.000-07:00

Recently on Fake News (we only watch it on the You Tube), an anchor pushed a poll that reportedly showed John McCain beating the Democrats by between 9 to 17 points.

Wow! Stop the presses!

Why hasn't the mainstream media jumped all over this?

Well, probably because aaaaah. . . . it's not true.

You see in the Fake News poll, the republiCON voter has only Johnnie boy to choose from, thus the 35 percent. Yet, the Democrat vote is apparently split between Obama and Hillary.

Eventually one of the Democratic candidates will be eliminated, a la American Idol.

Anyway, assuming most good Democrats vote for the party nominee, the Democratic candidate actually pulls 44 percent of the vote in the Fake News poll.

So, the CONservatives at Fake News with a wave of their magic wand turned John's deficit into a lead.

Pretty impressive.

Maybe they will next turn their transformative power toward these troubling numbers.

The High Cost of Rove's Stupid Statements

2008-03-10T12:32:00.000-07:00

Karl Rove recently addressed a crowd at the University of Iowa. Rove who was reported to have receive $40,000 for his speech, got a less than warm response. At one point Rove confronted his hecklers saying "You got a chance to ask your questions later and make your stupid statements, let me make mine."

Say Whaa?

The University of Iowa probably hoped it would get more than Rove's stupid statements for its 40 grand. Yet, given the cost turd blossom's work has inflicted upon the country over the past decade, the UI probably feels it got off easy.

Still Not Safe? Department of WTF!

2008-03-06T14:20:00.000-08:00

President Bush told a crowd of Homeland Security personnel recently, that despite their efforts these past five years the nation is still not safe.

Could it be this is Georgie's idea of a pep talk for Department of Homeland Security (DHS) personnel? Given his failing grasp of reality, probably so.

But thinking people will see this comment as nothing but a slap in the face of the dedicated public servants whose job it is to protect this nation.

Senator McCain? A few questions please!

2008-02-19T22:32:00.000-08:00

After his victory in Wisconsin, John McCain called out Senator Barak Obama, the likely Democratic presidential nominee. In a not so veiled smack at the Illinois Senator, McCain asked if America wants to "risk the confused leadership of an inexperienced candidate who once suggested invading our ally, Pakistan, and sitting down without pre-conditions or clear purpose with enemies who support terrorists and are intent on destabilizing the world by acquiring nuclear weapons?"

Fair question. One I'm sure Obama will be happy to answer in his upcoming debates with the republiCONS default nominee.

Yet, I'm certain Obama, as well as the rest of the American public will also have a few tough questions for McCain.

How about these for starters?

Does America want a President who uses enthic slurs? Or what does it tell us about the candidate's judgment who sees no problem with a hundred year war/occupation? Are voters comfortable with someone running the country who appears to have sold his soul in an attempt to win over the extreme right? Or does a man who once called Jerry Fallwell and his ilk the "agents of intolerance" only later to turn around and give a commencement address at the agent's University have the moral character to lead the nation?

We look forward to learning the answers.

Romney: Consistent to the End!

2008-02-07T11:18:00.000-08:00

The night of Super Tuesday, Slick Mitt Romney promised a crowd of supporters "this campaign is going on!"

We now know going on meant for two more days.

At the CPAC conference, Romney annouced he is suspending his campaign. Stunned and shocked supporters let loose with cries of "no!"

Stunned? Shocked? Really?

Throughout his campaign, Slick changed positions on nearly every issue from abortion, gay rights, stem cell research to the environment.

Why would anyone be surprised Slick flip flopped on his decision to stay in the race? One can say this about Romney, he was a consistent chameleon to the end!

McCain/Romney Ticket? NOT!

2008-02-03T13:03:00.000-08:00

"Slick" Mitt Romney is stumping hard for Super Tuesday votes, yet must realize his multi-million dollar ego trip is quickly running out of steam. To keep his campaign on life support, Romney's reduced to aping criticism from CONservative voices like Rick Stantorum, Rush Limbaugh, Hugh Hewitt, and Lars Larson of front runner John McCain.

It's clear Romney shares these blowhards' assessment of John when he repeats the message that "We really can't afford John McCain as the nominee of our party." By implication though, Slick is also saying the country can't afford him as president.

Democrats couldn't agree more, and look forward to quoting Slick's take on John during the general election.

Giuliani: Out the In Door

2008-01-30T15:51:00.000-08:00

Rudolph Giuliani quit his campaign for president today.

What a shock.

Given his dismal performance in Iowa (4%), Wyoming (0%), New Hampshire (9%), Michigan (3%), Nevada (4%), South Carolina (2%) and Florida (15%) one must question if Rudolph ever really entered the race.

Pathetic.

John McMaine?

2008-01-22T13:12:00.000-08:00

Touring the southeast United States in his quest for the White House, John McCain stated he understands South Florida and Cuba because he was in the Navy during the Cuban Missile Crisis.

John's remarks makes one wonder how long will it be before Chuck Norris implies Senator McMain understands Florida and Cuba because he served on the Maine as well.

Drop Dead Fred Campaign

2008-01-22T12:11:00.000-08:00

Fred Thompson, republiCON from Tennessee, ended his run for the White House today. In his announcement, Fred hoped the "country. . . benefited from our having made this effort." Really? About the only ones likely to benefit from Fred's run will be future historians who can write books about the never seen before ability to end a presidential bid without really starting it.

Adios Fred!

One Year to Go!

2008-01-20T08:35:00.000-08:00

Countdown Until the Country awakes from the Bush Nightmare

G.O.P. = Getting Out of the Party

2008-01-06T10:33:00.000-08:00

CBS evening news released a poll last night showing people identifying themselves as politically independent at an all time high. Independents are up 25 percent from 1988.

CBS tries to paint this as bad news for both major parties, but astute observers ask where did these independents come from? The CBS poll clearly shows they are defectors from rebpubliCON party! In fact, CON identification is down 21 percent from 1988. Meanwhile, people identifying themselves as Democrats are basically unchanged during that time period.

Moreover, other CBS/New York Times polls show voters view Democrats more favorably than CONS, and feel the Democratic party will do a better job on important issues such as the economy and the war.

Over the past four presidential elections the GOP has won the popular vote only once, in 2004. At that time CON identification was 30 percent. However, given the dismal performance of the president and the current slate of CON candidates its unlikely the "grand old party" will sniff 30 percent support anytime soon.

Good luck in November CONS!

Why Does Bush hate the troops?

2007-12-28T11:33:00.000-08:00

President Bush is set to veto a Defense spending bill. The bill includes a pay raise for soldiers and money for veteran health care.

One question. Why does President Bush and the other republiCON lawmakers who voted against the bill hate the troops so much?

Where's the Constitution?

2007-12-20T09:18:00.000-08:00

A damaging fire broke out yesterday in one of Vice President Dick Cheney's offices. Some speculate the fire started when the VP's paper shredder shorted out. Heaven knows what's being shredded in those offices.

Hey, has anyone checked on the whereabouts of the Constitution and Bill of Rights lately?

Do Conservative Bibles include Matthew 6:5 and Luke 6:42?

2007-12-13T19:51:00.000-08:00

Campaigning in Iowa for the republiCON presidential nomination, Mike Huckabee publicly touts his faith and describes himself as a Christian leader.

Meanwhile, in response to an attack by Huckabee on his Mormon faith, Slick Mitt Romney stated "I think attacking someone's religion is really going too far. It's not the American way." What Slick didn't say is unless one is a secularist, which Romney believes are followers of a new religion, then commendation is justified.

Strange. Its as if Huckabee and Romney haven't read Jesus' statements on public expressions of faith and removing the plank from ones own eye before questioning the beliefs of another.

Conservatives: Shifting Values or No Short Term Memory

2007-12-06T22:14:00.000-08:00

It's quickly becoming apparent, either CONServatives don't believe in anything save their drive to retain political power or they have no short term memory.

Take CNN's conservative blow hard Glen Beck for example. He recently interviewed Slick Mitt Romney, questioning the former governor on what should be done about states and municipalities who don't share the CONServative world view on illegal immigration.

Romney's response is typical knee jerk republiCON, punish those states and communities which don't kowtow to the CONServative position by consolidating power within the federal government. Note Glennie Boy didn't challenge Romeny's lust for more federal control of local matters, rather he immediately moved onto a question about his fear over the loss of American sovereignty.

Glen's apparent agreement on the positives of more federal power is shocking given his take on the matter during his Mike Huckabee interview. (Fast forward to the 7:47 position.)

Notice Glen is now apparently incensed with the growth of federal power, mentioning the rise of several state session movements and asks Huckabee "how we correct" the problem of federal power consolidation.

So Glen (and other CONS) which is it? Is CON lust to retain power so great, that its leaders and spokesmen flip flop on supposed core values? Or have they simply lost their short term memory, clearly forgetting previous conflicting positions on important matters like the benefits of federal power? Either way, CON leadership doesn't bode well for America's long term prospects.

Karl Rove's Extra Spin Cycle

2007-12-04T18:40:00.000-08:00

Karl Rove is either losing his mind or thinks the American public is a bunch of chumps. Get this. Mr. spinmister recently made the assertion it was Congress that drove the country to war in 2002. Wow!

Forgetting for a moment it was administration officials such as Condi Rice and Dick Cheney who beat the war drums throughout 2001 and 2002, Rove actually blames former Senator Tom Daschle for the nation's rush to war. Rove seems oblivious to the fact the republiCONS controlled Congress when the Iraq war resolution passed. And as such it was the republiCONS, not Senator Daschle who had the power to slow down the race to war.

But a simple fact won't deter Karl. Rather, it probably won't be long before the spinmister claims Democrats were actually in charge of Congress at the start of the war. But why stop at merely blaming the Democrats for the war? Karl's real aim seems to be Bush's complete exoneration of any responsibility for the Iraq quagmire. So look for Karl soon after Georgie leaves office in 2009, to place total blame for the war on the left by not only claiming the Democrats were in charge of Congress when the first bombs fell on Baghdad, but more importantly Bush wasn't even President at the time.

Another Week, Another Romney Gaffe

2007-11-27T18:43:00.000-08:00

Slick Mitt Romney has put his foot in his mouth again. This time he's insulted all Islamic Americans by stating that their small percentage of the population would bar them for consideration in his presidential cabinet.

Muslims represent roughly 1 percent of the United States population. By comparison Mormons make up about 1.8 percent. If Muslims are barred from Romney's cabinet because of their small numbers, by that logic we probably shouldn't expect to see many latter day saints, farmers (1 percent of the population), multi millionaires (less than 1 percent), fortune 500 CEOs, former right wing Congressmen, retired generals, economists, etc. in the cabinet either.

If Romney goes with the averages, his cabinet will be stuffed with people who are overweight, get their news information from Saturday Night Live or MTV and own pink lawn flamingos.

Romney: Don't put up [virtual] walls around America. Real ones are fine, however.

2007-11-20T16:12:00.000-08:00

Slick Mitt Romney is at it again. Just yesterday Slick was in the Pacific Northwest talking the benefits of free trade. Specifically, Slick stated trade barriers hurt the country. "Don't put up walls around America," he begged.

This is odd since during a trip to Southern California this last summer, Slick held a news conference on immigration just a stones throw from the nation's southern border fence. According to the online version of the San Diego Union Tribune, Romney didn't call for tearing down this wall. Wonder why?

So, Slick opposes virtual walls around America because of their supposed negative impact upon the economy, but supports real ones with known damaging impacts to the environment, wildlife and the economy. Sounds like typical republiCON double speak.

CONS can't tell the truth about climate change because . . .

2007-11-09T09:45:00.000-08:00

Senator James Inhofe (R-OK) went to the Senate floor the other day to rail against media types that question his position on climate change.

Inhofe states the reason why "more members of the House and the Senate [don't] tell the truth about climate change" is because of name calling and threats by people like Anderson Cooper. Say what!?!

Putting aside Senator Inhofe's apparent habit of reaching policy positions based on taunts, his speech seems to be an inadvertent admission that he's not telling the truth about climate change. And CONS wonder why more people are rejecting the GOP's leadership.

Last Throes or Just Getting Started?

2007-11-07T16:32:00.000-08:00

Remember back in June of 2005 when Vice President Dick Cheney said this about the ongoing violence and death in Iraq:

"I think we may well have some kind of presence there over a period of time. The level of activity that we see today from a military standpoint, I think, will clearly decline. I think they're in the last throes, if you will, of the insurgency."

Well now the Department of Defense reports that 2007 is the deadliest year of the Iraq war. Even though there are roughly two months left in the year, more than 850 American GIs have been killed, surpassing the previous record set in 2004.

If this is the last throes, one hates to think what an active insurgency would do.

Red States Running Purple

2007-11-05T13:27:00.000-08:00

The news for the republiCONS just keeps going from bad to grim. Besides what appears to be the daily revelations regarding GOP closeted homosexual activity, the retirement of another prominent CON, or the stepping down of an advisor with a criminal past, we find this gem. It seems trends in several Senate races are breaking for the Democrats. In fact, Democrats are leading or tied in 5 of 7 Senate races currently held by CONS.

This is bad for the GOP on a several fronts. First, the Senate is evenly split with 49 Democrats and 49 CONS. The two Democrat leaning independents tip the balance to the left. If the Democrats take five of the current CON seats, they will open up a ten vote majority, bringing them ever closer to a filibuster proof number. In fact, winning just a couple of these seats would have the added bonus of eliminating Joe Lieberman's power as a swing vote.

Yet, more importantly Democratic Senate candidates are polling very well in traditional red states like Virginia, New Mexico and Colorado. This has got to be a source of GOP nightmares. A Democrat will likely be in the White House come January 2009, if he/she wins just two of these states and holds the others Kerry got in 2004.

A Democrat in the White House, with a ten vote majority in the Senate, and who knows how many seats in the House, the country is looking a darker shade of purple every day.

Bush's Phony Government

2007-10-29T10:47:00.000-07:00

So the Bush administration's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is in the news again. Everyone remembers FEMA for the bang up job they did with hurricane Katrina. Well now they held a phony press conference touting the outstanding job they are doing with the California fires. Problem is the supposed reporters present were FEMA employees, while real reporters on the phone were not allowed to ask questions. Oops!

Phony elections, phony press conferences, phony science, phony reasons for war, phony compassion. Does anyone else see a Bush government pattern of behavior?

Fuzzy Economic Math, Con Style!

2007-10-22T14:44:00.001-07:00

On Chris Matthew's show over the weekend, Washington Post reporter Kathleen Parker blames Democratic state leadership for the downturn in the economy. To support her statement, Kathleen notes the average U.S. unemployment rate is 4 percent (its actually roughly 4.4) and points to Michigan's high unemployment rate (7.4) as evidence that Democrats are to blame for our bad economic state. Putting aside the fact that the manufacturing industry has laid off thousands in Michigan, it's funny Kathleen doesn't mention that five of the seven states with the worst unemployment are run by republiCONS. Further, in those states that have worse unemployment rates than the national average, Democratic states run 5.1% unemployment while CON states are over 5.7%. It would appear CON management of state economies is worse than their Democrat counterparts. Odd Kathleen didn't mention this.

The Republic isn't over until we say it is!

2007-10-16T04:00:00.000-07:00

New York Times columnist Paul Krugman on Bill Maher's Real Time stated the republic would be over if it weren't for Bush's ineptitude. Paul is half correct. While President Bush's incompetence has minimized the damage to nation, the real reason the republic is holding on is because average Americans like a caller to CSPAN who confronts Rep. Trent Franks , or the Rep. Joe Knollenberg constituent who is demanding accountability from his elected official, or the hundreds of people who showed up at a Brian Baird town hall meeting, or the Frost family who want health care for all needy children aren't ready to give it up.

The country isn't over until the people say it is and that drives the CONS nuts. Keep up the good work everyone.

EXTRA: Get your the Republic Isn't over tee-shirt right here.

Fishwifey: Badge of Honor?

2007-10-08T21:19:00.000-07:00

RepubliCON hack Cheri Jacobus described Senator Hillary Clinton's response to a question about her recent vote on Iran as "fishwifey," "shrill," and "thin skinned." The implication is obvious: Senator Clinton is defensive, desperate and irrational. In other words, unfit to lead.

Fine. By this standard most of the republiCON field is disqualified. Take cranky John McCain for example. He called a student a "jerk" for merely having the temerity to ask the longtime public official about his fitness to lead the nation. It appears Arizona's junior Senator is a bit too "thin skinned" to be president. Or how about bumbling Fred Thompson. Freddy had to drag applause out of a recent campaign audience. Smacks of desperation. And then there's Willard "Slick" Romeny who insulted average Americans by stating that his five sons don't have to serve in the military because they are serving on his campaign. Talk about irrational.

It's clear as to why republiCON hacks attack Hillary and the rest of the Democratic field, run from the Bush record and fail to talk up their candidates, they know their guys are in trouble. Every stone thrown by a CON at a Democrat illustrates the GOP's fear and confirms the Democratic nominee will be the one to beat next year.

Keep slinging CONS!

Coulter's Joke or Coulter is a Joke

2007-09-27T19:02:00.000-07:00

Is it a day ending in Y? Then Ann Coulter must be saying something stupid. And of course she doesn't disappoint. It seems Ann can't understand why someone hasn't thrown down a fatwa on her. For those who don't know, a fatwa is similar to a legal opinion, issued by a Islamic law scholar. Back in 1988 Salman Rushdie released Satanic Verses and received a fatwa calling for his death. Ann whines if Rushdie got a one, why can't she?

That's simple.

No one in the United States takes Ann seriously anymore, so why should she be surprised to find out no one in the Islamic world does either?

Although, since Ann has become such a joke, it's possible she could get someone to throw another one of these at her.

Extra: Be sure to check out the our Fatwa the Clown tee-shirts. They can be found here.

Ted's Bill Coming Due

2007-09-21T08:09:00.000-07:00

Alaska republiCON Senator Ted Stevens just gets in deeper and deeper. Federal officials are investigating possible corruption of the Senator by oil executives. Specifically, investigators are looking into who paid for renovations of Senator Stevens house. Bill Allen, former chief executive for VECO an oil services company, already admitted he spent more than $400,000 to bribe Alaska state legislators. Raa rhoa!

However, it gets worse. Mr. Allen also paid for work on Senator Stevens' house in the ski resort town of Girdwood. Bill said VECO paid at least two contractors, a plumber and a carpenter, for work on the house.

Senator Stevens emphatically maintains he's paid every bill submitted to him with his own money. Sounds good right? Yet, just like Senator Larry Craig's I'm sorry for what I caused apology, Ted's statement is classic CON misdirection. For the question isn't whether the good Senator paid every bill given to him, but rather was he given every bill. If not, Ted has a lot of explaining to do.

That's What Rudolph Finds Disgusting?

2007-09-12T15:00:00.000-07:00

Earlier today former New York Mayor Rudolph Giuliani called Moveon.org's ad questioning General Pateraus' honesty regarding the Iraq war "one of the more disgusting things that has happened in American politics."

Really? An ad? An ad in which American citizens exercise their god given inalienable right to seek answers from a government official. This is what Rodolph considers "disgusting?" Mr. Giuliani obviously isn't a student of American history. If he was, he'd know our past is chock full of far more disgusting things than the moveon.org ad.

What would that be? How about then Governor George Bush's whisper effort during the 2000 campaign regarding the race of one of Senator John McCain's children for starters? Gee, wonder where the Bushies got the idea to attack an opponent's child?

Don't like this example of disgusting politics, well who could forget the swift boat veterans for truth and their smear job on Senator John Kerry's war record, or President Richard Nixon's cover up of the break in at the Headquarters of the Democratic National Committee, or even Senator Joseph McCarthy's witch hunts? Hell, Vice President Aaron Burr actually shot and killed one of his political rivals. Talk about crude politics!

Even a cursory study of American history shows its politics to be a very rough business. If Rudolph can't stomach a simple ad, then he clearly doesn't have the constitution to be President.

Not So Sorry Charlie

2007-09-03T11:41:00.000-07:00

It was another tough week for the republiCONS, further dimming their fleeting hopes of holding the White House and taking back Congress in 2008. First, Larry Craig is outed as having plead guilty to playing footsie with an undercover cop in the Minneapolis airport. A week later he's forced from the Senate. Immediately preceding the news of Craig's bathroom romp, Alberto Gonzales is forced to step down. In fact, we just learned Alberto's wife convinced him to resign. If true, Mrs. Gonzales did the nation a great service. Follow these two stories with Senator John Warner's announcement of his "retirement," the continued investigation of Ted Stevens for corruption and the GOP's 2008 prospects got very bleak.

Other CONS such as Arlen Specter are recognizing the hopelessness of their situation and are forced to defend the likes of Senator Craig. So much for the law and order party.

However, CONS probably believe its Rubicon position is due to bad luck, rather than their arrogance and lust for power. Craig himself seems to have thought he'd get away with his illegal behavior and intimidate a police office by flashing his Senate business card and stating "What do you think of that?" Thankfully, the young officer appears more committed to the law than does the 3 term Idaho Senator.

In his resignation speech, Craig apologized for what he had caused. Thinking Americans noted the Senator's classic CON speak in that he took no personal responsibility for his crime. Rather, he's only sorry for the fire storm his guilty plea kicked up.

Over the past seven years "sorry for what we caused" has become the patronizing GOP mantra. The CONS aren't sorry for damage their policies have wrought. Instead they're sorry their incompetent governing hasn't worked out as predicted. If there is a silver lining to this mess, it doesn't look like the CONS have learned anything from the events of the last week. In fact the CONS are likely to carry the "not so sorry sorry" into the presidential election. If they do, their candidate may be apologizing to the party faithful for the debacle he causes in next November's election.

EXTRA!!! Be the first on your block to get your own Larry Craig "I'm not gay!" tee-shirt. Get it today!

Rush to Rewrite

2007-08-17T22:15:00.000-07:00

Breaking News! According to a report by Reuters, someone has been using Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee computers (say that three times fast) to alter Rush Limbaugh's Wikipedia page. Specifically, text was added describing him as "idiotic," a "racist" and a "bigot." Wonder where they got those ideas? Maybe when he made statements like those here, here and here. So, in other words someone at the DCCC has a low image of the old gas bag. Nooooo! Ya think? However, the real mystery here isn't who made the changes to Viagra boy's web page, but rather why they didn't make them sooner.

Back to Transylvania?

2007-08-13T11:42:00.000-07:00

Karl Rove announced today he'll resign his post at the White House the end of the month. Asked if Congressional investigations are driving him from nation's capitol, Karl stated "that sounds like the rooster claiming to have called up the sun."

Mr. Rove can joke, but lawmakers are shining a strong light on his corrupt, and potentially treasonous tenure in Washington. The end result may land him in prison and it's apparent Karl's response to the new day in DC is less like a rooster and more like Dracula.

RepubliCONS: Sexual Healing Thyself

2007-07-30T10:00:00.001-07:00

The Washington State GOP is calling upon the state legislature to open a special session to deal with sex offenders. About time! In fact, they should start with their own party which seems replete with sexual deviants. Bringing the likes of Republican Louisiana Senator David Vitter, former Florida Representative Mark Foley, Florida State Representative Bob Allen, North Carolina State Representative David Almond, and Former Utah County Commissioner David J. Gardner just to name a few to justice should keep the Washington GOP busy for years.

Proper Politicization?

2007-07-25T08:13:00.000-07:00

During yesterday's congressional hearing into the firing of Justice department prosecutors, Attorney General Alberto Gonzales promised he "will not tolerate any improper politicization of this department." One question: Is there proper politicization of the Justice department?

Hey RepubliCONS! Can you Hear 'Em Now!

2007-07-16T15:57:00.000-07:00

If the republiCON race for the presidential nomination could be described as a sound it would be a cacophony. A noisy shriek made by candidates who struggle to remain relevant, raise money, or fend off bad press.

Take Mitt Romney. His bleat is starting to run out of wind. In the first quarter money race, Romney came in with a staggering $25 million. However, in the preceding quarter his haul dropped to $21 million. Still seemingly impressive, however hidden in these numbers is a nearly $7 million loan Romney gave to his own campaign. Subtracting this self-love, Romney actually came in second to Guiliani and well behind the leading Democrats. Speaking of self-love, Romney appears to be caught up in a porn scandal that threatens to tar his family values image. It appears slick's opposition to porn doesn’t include smut that makes money for the corporations he used to serve.

The recent noise coming out of the Guiliani campaign wasn't good either. Most notably Rudy's ability to select quality people to run government or work for his campaign was once again called into question. First, it was his pick for Homeland Security Secretary who was hounded by allegations of infidelity, sexual harassment and mob ties. Next, Guiliani's South Carolina chair was busted for distributing cocaine. Now his southern regional chair admits to soliciting prostitutes. Makes one wonder who Rudolph would put in Departments like Health and Human Services.

Meanwhile, McCain's campaign sounds a lot like the battle to sink the Bismarck and appears to have suffered as many hits and headed for the same fate. His campaign is nearly broke, losing staff and like Guilliani, has an accused john chairing one of his states. Sorry Senator, but its time to abandon ship!

As for the bottom tier candidates, their whimpers are fading. Jim Gilmore just threw in the towel. The governor must have seen the writing on the wall, heck a google search shows him sharing headlines with a recently cancelled TV show.

It's just a matter of time until other republiCONS also hear the bell toll. Although, some candidates seem to have been made deaf to and by the incessant ringing of their dying campaigns. What Fun!

National Security Guess Work

2007-07-12T10:14:00.000-07:00

Just the other day Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff warned the world that Al Qaeda is on the rise again and could attack the U.S. anytime. He based his prediction of an Al Qaeda summer of mayhem and terror not on crack spies, mysterious intercepts, or our "guests" at Gitmot but rather on his gut.

Yet today, Chertoff is down playing the Al Qaeda threat. I guess Michael's gut feeling was actually food poisoning?

Fast forward to this afternoon, a Bush Administration report states Al Qaeda is back and at its greatest strength since 9/11. Ever get the feeling these guys make it up as they go?

Here's a little advice for the Bush security team, get your room full of palm readers, fortune tellers, astrologists, oracles, and dowsers to reach consensus before announcing anymore terror alerts. Funny the Bush soothsayers didn't see the cluster f@#! their back and forth prognosticating would create.

Scooter Skips

2007-07-03T12:00:00.000-07:00

President Bush commuted the sentence of Scooter Libby, a man convicted of lying to federal investigators and obstructing justice. Bush erased the 30 month jail term, calling it too severe. So, Scooter will do less time than Paris Hilton.

Bush claims the remaining sentence (a felony conviction, probation and $250,000 fine) is harsh enough. But, what he doesn't mention is Scooter's buds (read Dick Cheney) are likely to pick up the fine, while the President can erase the felony conviction at any time, most likely after the 2008 election.

Whitehouse waterboy Tony Snow said the president didn't grant a full pardon out of respect to the jury system. Give us a break! Follow up question for waterboy. Since a pardon can't be ruled out and the president "respects" the jury's decision, what justification would Bush use to grant a full pardon now or ever?

The President's commutation statement doesn't mention the deterrent value of this action. Perhaps that's because it doesn't contain any. A convicted felon was given a get out of jail free card, one doesn't have to wonder what message this sends to the rest of the administration's political hacks and the inevitable lawlessness the remaining 19 months of the Bush Presidency holds.

Don't Care About Dick

2007-06-27T10:44:00.000-07:00

Over the past six and a half years, Vice President Dick Cheney has been busy wrecking the nation by blocking the people's right to know about government business, undermining national security, lying about ties between Saddam Hussein and Al Qaeda and pushing hair brained constitutional theories. However, he's also found time to meddle with Oregon stream flows, the legal status of fish and thrillcraft operation in national parks. As a result, the Bush/Cheney approval ratings are roughly 3 points below freezing. BRRRR!

What's the VEEP's response to the public's rejection of his work? He doesn't care.

Well he may soon care, for it looks like Dick will have a lot less money and free time to pursue his pet projects in the near future.

Fox News and Accuracy: Not So Much

2007-06-08T21:15:00.000-07:00

Accurately reporting the facts seems a low priority at Fox News. Case in point, Fox has repeatedly identified republicans and democrats incorrectly. Most notably Fox identified Mark Foley as a Democrat. Mr. Foley, we all remember, is the republican lawmaker from Florida drummed out of office for inappropriate behavior with congressional pages. Later, Fox switched party affiliations for the two candidates in the 2006 Rhode Island Senate race, leaving the impression the republican was leading.

However, it appears quality control isn't high on Fox's to do list either. Just this last week, Fox ran a story about the criminal indictment of Representative William Jefferson (D-LA). Problem is the video accompanying the segment showed Representative John Conyers (D-MI), rather than Jefferson. Oops! Conyers was none to happy and demanded Fox apologize.

Fox News blamed the error on a young assistant picking up the wrong tape. So . . . it's not common practice for Fox employees to read video labels before its placed on air? Yikes!

Funny how Fox's quality control errors always seem to come at the expense of Democrats. Perhaps Democrats are justified in shunning Fox's offer to host a Presidential debate. God knows what images they would run during the broadcast.

Campaign Advice from Dummies

2007-05-31T14:33:00.000-07:00

Republican stuffed shirt Rick Santorum was on Fox TV over the Memorial Day holiday bashing John Edwards' presidential campaign. Slick Rickie implied Edwards' anti-war stance is a tactic to get past his campaign mistakes.

Fox couldn't have picked a better person to talk about running a mistake-filled campaign. Between Rickie's foot in mouth statements on privacy rights, his flip-flop on the teaching of intelligent design in public schools, and the question regarding his Pennsylvania residency, Santorum's 2006 Senate run was a bungled folly. Santourm offering counsel on how to win elections is like the captain of the Exxon Valdez giving safe boating tips.

Given Santorum's crushing defeat last November, Edwards would be smart to do the opposite of anything Santorum advises.

Iraq Exploding with Success

2007-05-17T18:55:00.000-07:00

During the revolutionary war, America defined victory as independence from British tyranny. The civil war it was preservation of the union and destruction of the institution of slavery. Crushing fascist dreams of world domination was the goal in World War II.

Today, American war success isn't defined by grand goals such as independence, preserving the union, or crushing Nazi plans. Rather, President Bush says it's "not no violence" in Iraq. What? Not no violence is what America has spent precious lives, billions of dollars and our national prestige fighting for in Iraq these past four years.

If "not no violence" is now the measure of success, it appears we've arrived at our Iraqi equivalent of Yorktown, Appomattox, Berlin or Tokyo in just the past couple of days. Evidence of our victory can be found here, here, here, here, also here, and this one too, oh yeah and here.

Odd, victory doesn't seem so sweet.

Democrats, Beware Luntz's Praise

2007-05-16T19:32:00.000-07:00

Frank Luntz makes his living manipulating words and phrases for maximum political impact. Urging candidates to use terms such as "death tax" to describe what is more accurately an "inheritance tax" is an example of his type of work. The beneficiaries of Frankie's efforts are often conservative, right wing candidates and causes.

So it was a surprise to see Frankie on CSPAN late last month saying nice things about Democratic Senator Barak Obama. It seems, Luntz likes Obama because he's running for President while providing a "positive vision" for America.

At first blush this appears to be rare Luntz praise for a liberal candidate. But when one remembers Frankie's work is to spin words for political affect, the comments are seen as a none to subtle slap at the remaining Democratic field, as well as all liberal voters.

How so?

Luntz's statement clearly implies the other Democratic Presidential contenders lack a positive vision for the country. In fact, during the CSPAN debate Luntz contrasted Obama's campaign with candidates like Hillary Clinton who in his opinion are running mainly on "anger." Frankie’s hidden message is clear, every Democrat save Obama is an angry, dangerous person who must not be President.

However, besides insulting the Democratic field, Luntz's faint praise for Obama also contains the potential to smear all liberal voters. Luntz clearly knows Obama may not win the Democratic nomination. If this happens, he'll likely spin the result as progressive voters' rejection of a positive future for one based on hatred and anger. In the process, he will have tared the Democratic nominee as someone picked for his/her anger toward conservatives, Bush, republicans, the troops, America, etc. Again the message is clear, the Democratic nominee is someone who should not be President.

Well two can play Luntz's game.

Ron Paul is by far the best republican candidate. From the last two republican debates, its obvious Ron is the conservative providing a sane vision for the country.

Thrown into the Brier Patch

2007-05-06T15:50:00.000-07:00

In the movie Song of the South, the hero Brer Rabbit uses reverse psychology to escape the clutches of his enemies Brer Fox and Brer Bear. In the story, Fox and Bear have caught Rabbit after years of pursuit. Yet before they eat Rabbit, Fox and Bear discuss with Rabbit their cooking preparations. Skinning and boiling are two of the grizzly fates that await Brer Rabbit. Surprisingly, Brer Rabbit is calm when confronted with these futures. In fact, Rabbit welcomes being skinned, but begs Fox and Bear not to throw him in the brier patch, a dense thicket of branches studded with thorns and barbs. Rabbit continues, by all means boil me but don't throw me in the brier patch.

However, Song of the South viewers quickly understand Rabbit wants to be thrown into the brier patch. Fox and Bear being somewhat mentally challenged, fall for Rabbit's trick and chuck him into the patch. Rabbit lands singing "born and bred in the brier patch" leaving Fox and Bear dumbfounded as their meal escapes through the tangle of branches.

Unfortunately, George Bush should have been reading Song of the South rather than My Pet Goat when America was attacked on 9/11. If he had, the United States might be on its way to "escaping" the Iraqi brier patch.

Case in point, in a recent statement Al Quaeda's number two man Ayman al Zawahiri trashed the bill passed by Congress setting a timetable for the pullout of U.S. troops in Iraq. Calling the bill evidence of American "failure."

RepubliCONS and other right-wing hacks pounced on Zawahiri's statements in an attempt to paint Democrats as playing into Al Quaeda's hands. "See," they say, "Pulling our troops out is exactly what our enemies want. We must stay in Iraq."

Yet, Zawahiri's statement should strike most thinking adults as akin to Brer rabbit's cry "Don't Throw me in the brier patch!" Zawahiri wants America to stay in Iraq and take more causalities. Like Brer Fox and Brer Bear, President Bush threw Zawhairi back into the patch when he vetoed the timetable bill. Sadly, American troops will likely pay for the President's lack of a well read childhood.

It's the GUN, Stupid!

2007-04-17T10:32:00.000-07:00

As the nation mourns its worst mass shooting, media talking heads are again asking "What type of person would do this?" Sadly, the media is unlikely to give us any deeper analysis than it was the work of an angry lone nut. Moreover, we are likely to be told it's an isolated incident. So, other than grieving and lowering the flags there isn't much more we as a nation can do to prevent these disasters. Unfortunately, the past several years there seems to be no shortage of angry lone nuts willing at attack schools and shopping malls.

Yet, many are beginning to question whether the isolated "mad loner" theory fully explains the phenomena. Why is it we never read about knife wielding wackos or crossbow armed madmen killing scores? What is the media overlooking when it asks "What type of person would do this?"

What could it be, what could it be?

Someone armed with a GUN?

Ding, Ding, Ding!

Like mixing alcohol and driving, the combination of an unstable person and easy access to firearms seems to increase the chance of disaster. Unfortunately, until the country finds a solution addressing both parts of the problem, mass shootings will continue.

Some are starting to see the light, questioning the cost of our nation's gun laws. Organizations such as the Brady Campaign to Prevent Handgun Violence are working hard to make the Blacksburg shooting the last. Give them your support.

Romney Shoots and Misses?

2007-04-09T11:56:00.000-07:00

"Slick" Mitt Romney is at it again, making crazy claims about his past in order to win the republican presidential nomination. This time Slick asserts he's a "lifelong" hunter. "I've been a hunter pretty much all my life," Slick recently told a New Hampshire resident. Problem is Romney's only been hunting twice, once when he was 15 and then again when he turned 60. Other than being in a committed marriage, (sorry John and Rudolph) or on rare occasion kicking an addiction, most thinking Americans know it often takes more than two attempts to call oneself a lifelong anything.

Slick clearly thinks gun voters are gullible hicks who can be bought off with a couple of hunting trips (the last taking place in a fenced game preserve) and a $1000 donation to the NRA. Hmm. . . perhaps the one G is why the NRA is surprisingly quiet on Romney's claim that two hunts is the minimum necessary to become a lifelong hunter.

If Slick has bought off the NRA for so little, maybe he believes he's accurately dialed his sights in on the gun voter. It remains to be seen if gun voters reject Slick's pandering and make themselves a moving target or sell out their values and offer themselves up to him as sitting ducks.

Republican Cluster F*#@!

2007-04-03T12:30:00.000-07:00

The republican race for president is becoming quite a mess. Combining last week's Gallop/USA Today Presidential poll with yesterday's first quarter campaign fundraising numbers, we see a republican field with major problems.

Let's start with Giuliani who had a tough week. First as conservatives learn more about Rudolph's background, his judgement, and political stances his poll numbers drop like a stone. The Gallop poll saw his number fall more than 13 points in just two weeks. Ouch! At that rate, he'll be out of the race in little more than a month. This sagging support meant mediocre contributions. Putting him far behind Willard "Slick" Romney. All this has "the Mayor" somewhat unhinged and defensive.

John McCain is in even tougher straits. His poll numbers plateaued at roughly 20 percent and he came in a disappointing third in the money race. Like Giuliani, McCain is starting to reek of desperation. He is looking for any spark to jump start his campaign, even one that put hundreds of US soldiers in harms way.

Then there's Romney. Old Willard had to choke on his lunch when Gallop revealed he's convinced just three 3 percent of the country he should be the next President. Three percent! That's within the poll's margin of error, which could mean Willard is actually appealing to no one. On the flip side, he sucked in over the past three months a mighty $23 million for his campaign. That has got to be the richest 3 percent in the country. Romney is obviously going after the Bush base.

Meanwhile, Newt's star is fading and Brownback, Tancredo, and Huckabee can't even get off the launching pad. Finally, Fred Thompson's poll numbers went from zero to 12 points in the last 14 days. Impressive for someone who isn't even running. Just shows how desperate the republican base is becoming given the current slate of official candidates. Unfortunately, for thespian Thompson, he's now down $23 million to Romney.

What fun!

Bushies to America: Do as I say!

2007-03-31T08:50:00.000-07:00

This past week, the Senate passed a $122 billion Iraq War spending bill. In most years, a multi billion war appropriation would have republicans wetting their pants with joy. However, this bill contains a provision requiring the withdrawal of most U.S. forces by March of 2008. This has our fearless leader incensed. We expect there to be no strings on our on-the-ground personnel he says. The basic gist of the argument is that people in the field have a better understanding of problems and a greater appreciation for how best to solve them. While this logic overlooks the fact that Congress does have Constitutional oversight authority over the executive branch, it does have some validity. People closer to the problems, often know best how to solve them.

However, the no strings requirement doesn't seem to apply to state side civil servants. Nor does the bar on meddling in local decisions pertain to Bush administration politicos. In fact, Bush lackeys not only second guess the professional judgement of "on-the-ground" federal personnel, they appear empowered to overturn decisions that conflict with the Bush admin's questionable world view. Case in point, Julie A. MacDonald, a political hack in the Interior department repeatedly altered the scientific field reports of professional land managers to the detriment of endangered species. Ms. MacDonald made these changes despite the fact that she has no, repeat that NO formal education in natural sciences. In other words, she lacks any qualification to second guess the judgement of wildlife managers. But according to the administration this is totally hunky dory.

In a nutshell, Bushies think Congress' Constitutional oversight of local managers is bad, while meddling by political appointees in the work of stateside local managers is good. Go figure.