Edit Preferences
Logout
Abo's Comments (331)
View Comments:
Sort:
1 - 25 of 331
Nidal Hasan Warned Army During 2007 Walter Reed Speech, Urged Release Of Muslims From US Military
Commented Nov 10, 2009 at 08:27:38 in Home
“Except that war had a legitimate reason.
Why are we killing innocent Iraqis, Afghans, Pakistanis, and if Israel gets its way, Iranians again?”
Why are we killing innocent Iraqis, Afghans, Pakistanis, and if Israel gets its way, Iranians again?”
Frank Rich: White House Doesn't Seem To Understand Public's Wall Street Rage
Commented Nov 09, 2009 at 08:22:42 in Politics
“Generally it is the people least aware of the growing length of the list of betrayals and half measures that continue to blindly rally in support of Obama, excusing him for not up to "fixing all the world's problems" when he is doing little more than expanding on and continuing those "problems". Couldn't you use the same line for Bush, that he was just "one man"? Out of hero worship or blind partisanship, one is left to wonder if Obama acted identically to Bush, would it be even perceived. Both FDR and Reagan pushed through reforms in their first year--they knew they had a limited time frame before the honeymoon wore off, yet some advocate patience, hoping against hope that Obama will redeem himself while things spiral downward. At the same time we are told that it is up to the progressives to "pressure" Obama, but any outrage is either met with shrill cries of "teabagger!" or lectures to "grow up!". It is those still with hope and change delusions who are incapable of facing an unpleasant and pressing reality. It is those who cling to a fantasy who block the road in their unwillingness to face up to adult responsibilities when it comes to real world realities.”
gparks replied on Nov 09, 2009 at 16:58:00
“Abo ...are speaking of Repubs and Blue Dog Dems right?... These are the people who are help bent on President Obama's admin to fail! And doing anything ... lie, distort, mislead, stage sedition using Fox/teabaggers, incite violence, create fear of other Americans among Americans, refuse to participate in the democratic process they were ELECTED to proform (NO votes on laws that help Americans), NOT offer ideas or solutions to our COLLECTIVE challenges all while TAKING large sums of money from corporations that benefit from their "obstructionist" actions! Oh yes, I used the "word" collective ... not to be confused with socalist, communist, mioaist, Hitler, witch doctor communist,etc Terms the shrill set DO NOT know the meaning of. By collective ... I mean ALL Americans even those I disagree with.”
Hope, Change and The Long Road: One Year Later
Commented Nov 05, 2009 at 15:09:45 in Politics
“You mean like environmentalists? Anti-war activists? Unions? Gay Rights? Healthcare?
Just where has he NOT disappointed and betrayed the Left? Or, is it the mainstream? The only class he really advocates for is the corporate ruling class and pays lip service to everything else. Sure, there have been some easy tinkering around the edges but no real notion of a shift . It is actually dangerous, because if he doesn't connect on an authentic level then people, especially people losing their security and standard of living, are much more vulnerable to the manufactured populism of the Right that speaks to their growing fear and channels their ANGER. That anger is real.”
Just where has he NOT disappointed and betrayed the Left? Or, is it the mainstream? The only class he really advocates for is the corporate ruling class and pays lip service to everything else. Sure, there have been some easy tinkering around the edges but no real notion of a shift . It is actually dangerous, because if he doesn't connect on an authentic level then people, especially people losing their security and standard of living, are much more vulnerable to the manufactured populism of the Right that speaks to their growing fear and channels their ANGER. That anger is real.”
Viola replied on Nov 05, 2009 at 16:00:48
“Abo's right - the anger is real, not just progressive anger, but citizen anger. The perception is widespread that Obama's policies have primarily benefited wealthy / corporate interests.
Reading commenters lists of accomplishments I come back to this: Obama's major accomplishments have come from areas where he is able to exert control. Good stuff on the Executive side (with exceptions re: certain personnel) and the diplomatic front. He's signed some good bills and defunded abstinence only programs, etc.
His problems stem from issues that involve corporate profit and congress. On the Financial side, so far anyway, the bandits call the shots. On Healthcare, he's done some token populist work, and a lot of hidden work on the corporate side. Now, we have to factor in everything that's disfunctional about Congress, but the bills have ended up bending to favor corporations, not citizens.
Obama gets some heat that should be directed towards congress, but he excites that heat because his public actions are conciliatory to the point of nausea towards Blue Dogs and Republicans, and dismissive towards Progressives. It's striking how hard the House Progressive Caucus had to work to get a meeting with him.
Meanwhile, he doesn't tell us why he cut deals with big Pharma. He tells us he's for the public option but not what form it needs to take, he leaks that he'd rather have Triggers (which we all know are bullshit), etc. What are we supposed to think? Where is the principle here? What will he”
Reading commenters lists of accomplishments I come back to this: Obama's major accomplishments have come from areas where he is able to exert control. Good stuff on the Executive side (with exceptions re: certain personnel) and the diplomatic front. He's signed some good bills and defunded abstinence only programs, etc.
His problems stem from issues that involve corporate profit and congress. On the Financial side, so far anyway, the bandits call the shots. On Healthcare, he's done some token populist work, and a lot of hidden work on the corporate side. Now, we have to factor in everything that's disfunctional about Congress, but the bills have ended up bending to favor corporations, not citizens.
Obama gets some heat that should be directed towards congress, but he excites that heat because his public actions are conciliatory to the point of nausea towards Blue Dogs and Republicans, and dismissive towards Progressives. It's striking how hard the House Progressive Caucus had to work to get a meeting with him.
Meanwhile, he doesn't tell us why he cut deals with big Pharma. He tells us he's for the public option but not what form it needs to take, he leaks that he'd rather have Triggers (which we all know are bullshit), etc. What are we supposed to think? Where is the principle here? What will he”
Hope, Change and The Long Road: One Year Later
Commented Nov 05, 2009 at 13:42:59 in Politics
“Wonder who the "far left" could be?
Those who support an end to the war in Iraq and an escalation of aggression in AfPak? Those who support environmental regulation and participation in global efforts to address climate change? Those who advocate health CARE reform, preferrably medicare for all, those who endorse the participation of the US in international law? Those who oppose massive transfer of wealth to the crooks on Wall St and when polled, accept Gay marriage? Just who could those people be?
Why, it is the majority of Americans. Thanks for marginalizing us, while at the same time lecturing us that we should be pressuring Obama.”
Those who support an end to the war in Iraq and an escalation of aggression in AfPak? Those who support environmental regulation and participation in global efforts to address climate change? Those who advocate health CARE reform, preferrably medicare for all, those who endorse the participation of the US in international law? Those who oppose massive transfer of wealth to the crooks on Wall St and when polled, accept Gay marriage? Just who could those people be?
Why, it is the majority of Americans. Thanks for marginalizing us, while at the same time lecturing us that we should be pressuring Obama.”
epotruchyeahright replied on Nov 05, 2009 at 14:53:04
“Abo, nothing you list in your comment are what I'd consider "far left" ideas. They are solidly mainstream. As a progressive who is fiscally conservative, I'm wholly satisfied with what Obama's been doing the past year.
What I believe Bob is saying is that there are elements in the Democratic base who, focused on their one issue, believe the president has not done enough to undo the damage heaped onto this country by the Bush Administration. And I'm sure that President Obama realizes the amount of damage he's got to clean up. But let's face it: a lot of people who voted for Obama wanted to punch the Republicans in the face and pass all sorts of progressive legislation that would further enrage the right. But this would not serve Obama and it would not serve the country. Yes, we're pissed off; but let's not forget that there is a sizeable portion of America that did not vote for Obama. It's the right thing to do to listen to them, to incorporate their ideas when possible, and to enroll them in a shared vision. That's good politics and that's good humanity.
Do you still want to duke it out with the far right? Go for it: run for office against one of them and have at it.”
What I believe Bob is saying is that there are elements in the Democratic base who, focused on their one issue, believe the president has not done enough to undo the damage heaped onto this country by the Bush Administration. And I'm sure that President Obama realizes the amount of damage he's got to clean up. But let's face it: a lot of people who voted for Obama wanted to punch the Republicans in the face and pass all sorts of progressive legislation that would further enrage the right. But this would not serve Obama and it would not serve the country. Yes, we're pissed off; but let's not forget that there is a sizeable portion of America that did not vote for Obama. It's the right thing to do to listen to them, to incorporate their ideas when possible, and to enroll them in a shared vision. That's good politics and that's good humanity.
Do you still want to duke it out with the far right? Go for it: run for office against one of them and have at it.”
Obama's First Year: It Ain't No Crystal Staircase
Commented Nov 05, 2009 at 12:15:01 in Politics
“What about all those people whose lives would be impacted for the better by Obama's policies?
You mean like the Wall Street Bansters?
Additionally Obama is more dangerous because of the unwillingness of some to recognize the deception. Their denial, their inability to confront the betrayal, keeps them clinging hope against hope, that around the next corner...around the next bend Obama will rise up and redeem himself. Meanwhile pundits will provide cover, blame his shortcomings on Progressives not pressing hard enough (often characterized as "whining" here), and accuse anyone not drinking the koolaide of having a Rightwing agenda--manufactured partisanship also helps to blind people. Very cagey strategy--but shortsighted ultimately.”
You mean like the Wall Street Bansters?
Additionally Obama is more dangerous because of the unwillingness of some to recognize the deception. Their denial, their inability to confront the betrayal, keeps them clinging hope against hope, that around the next corner...around the next bend Obama will rise up and redeem himself. Meanwhile pundits will provide cover, blame his shortcomings on Progressives not pressing hard enough (often characterized as "whining" here), and accuse anyone not drinking the koolaide of having a Rightwing agenda--manufactured partisanship also helps to blind people. Very cagey strategy--but shortsighted ultimately.”
southernsepia replied on Nov 05, 2009 at 13:28:09
“I was referring to those without access to health care that will get it if the bill passes. Those languishing in under resourced schools that will get help, those who will receieve good paying jobs through the greening of our economy.
Real people with real problems Obama is trying to help.
Why doen't that matter?”
Real people with real problems Obama is trying to help.
Why doen't that matter?”
Obama's First Year: It Ain't No Crystal Staircase
Commented Nov 05, 2009 at 10:08:54 in Politics
“Which is NOT accomplished by continuing to make excuses for him.
For example, using the partisan tactic of relegating any DISSENT to realm of teabagger.
The one tactic I failed to mention-- creating a simplistic us vs them divide based on partisan allegiances that keeps people in rigid opposition despite the fact that the parties increasingly serve the same interests.
As for the snide remark below regarding the shift in tone, previously taboo? How long can you afford to ignore the growing consensus in your constituency?”
For example, using the partisan tactic of relegating any DISSENT to realm of teabagger.
The one tactic I failed to mention-- creating a simplistic us vs them divide based on partisan allegiances that keeps people in rigid opposition despite the fact that the parties increasingly serve the same interests.
As for the snide remark below regarding the shift in tone, previously taboo? How long can you afford to ignore the growing consensus in your constituency?”
Obama's First Year: It Ain't No Crystal Staircase
Commented Nov 05, 2009 at 08:49:20 in Politics
“"He deserves a progressive movement that is more independent, and less obedient"
That is rich, considering the constant flood of columns by progressives, excusing, apologizing, tamping down & revising expectations, advocating waiting til just over the next hill while ignoring the mountains of betrayal we just crossed, ramping up the rhetoric of hope, rhapsodizing over tinkering as the bone thrown, gushing over the window-dressing....There is real anger down here among the rabble of all stripes & this ongoing campaign by political insiders and elites to spin it or ignore it, are part of the problem.”
That is rich, considering the constant flood of columns by progressives, excusing, apologizing, tamping down & revising expectations, advocating waiting til just over the next hill while ignoring the mountains of betrayal we just crossed, ramping up the rhetoric of hope, rhapsodizing over tinkering as the bone thrown, gushing over the window-dressing....There is real anger down here among the rabble of all stripes & this ongoing campaign by political insiders and elites to spin it or ignore it, are part of the problem.”
cheforacle replied on Nov 05, 2009 at 09:41:57
“There are just as many progressives decrying Obama and claiming he has made insufficient progress. You obviously haven't been reading on this site lately like Arianna's headliner two days ago.”
sixchair replied on Nov 05, 2009 at 09:19:26
“You make the argument for Mr. Borosage's point while defeating your own premise. A LESS obedient progressive field will hold Obama to his promises.
I smell teabags here, and talk about odedient - sheesh!”
I smell teabags here, and talk about odedient - sheesh!”
PATina replied on Nov 05, 2009 at 09:16:57
“I agree w/ you... but your comment is exactly why he (we) need a more independent progressive movement. You're right... he doesn't have it now... but it's not too late to start.”
One Year After Obama's Election: Still Smarter...Than The Alternative
Commented Nov 05, 2009 at 08:21:49 in Politics
“When they pull out the "lesser-of-two-evils" line, you know they have nothing to defend.
Problem with that is Obama could be continuing every bad Bush policy--with better rhetoric, but would you even recognize it? You could always claim that the other guy is worse. In purely partisan terms, it is the fallback excuse. Talk about lowering expectations.
All these apologies and excuses accelerate as time passes and the truth becomes more difficult to obscure. How is it possible for Progressives to pressure Obama when he marginalizes and dismisses them with hostility? How is it possible for Progressives to put on the pressure, when progressives keep giving him a pass????”
Problem with that is Obama could be continuing every bad Bush policy--with better rhetoric, but would you even recognize it? You could always claim that the other guy is worse. In purely partisan terms, it is the fallback excuse. Talk about lowering expectations.
All these apologies and excuses accelerate as time passes and the truth becomes more difficult to obscure. How is it possible for Progressives to pressure Obama when he marginalizes and dismisses them with hostility? How is it possible for Progressives to put on the pressure, when progressives keep giving him a pass????”
Soulsurfer replied on Nov 05, 2009 at 08:43:57
“Spot on.”
Obama Is Timid Because Progressives Are Timid
Commented Nov 04, 2009 at 14:51:54 in Politics
“Amazing how these so-called progressives place the blame with progressives while giving Obama a pass. If Obama shouldn't be held accountable for his betrayals, his reversals, his appointments--why should the progressives bother?
You see, it starts with an honest assessment that is reinforced by political pressure--but Obama has no reason to be responsive, if the agreed upon consensus keeps on apologizing for him.
And, this is not a conservative country--that is a deliberately manufactured perception. When polled the majority of Americans want real healthCARE reform--medicare for all, they want out of Iraq, they want economic justice, but Obama has threatened the progressives, while claiming he has to pander to the BlueDogs. He has squandered the opportunity and will tumble down in no time. So, it is you, you who continue to maintain the status quo while lecturing the progressives to act. Progressives can win--Obama proved it, the congressman in CA proves it--which is why we aren't hearing anything about that, because the lie is we have to pander to the crowd Obama has surrounded himself with--even though they represent a failing worldview and lose at the polls.”
You see, it starts with an honest assessment that is reinforced by political pressure--but Obama has no reason to be responsive, if the agreed upon consensus keeps on apologizing for him.
And, this is not a conservative country--that is a deliberately manufactured perception. When polled the majority of Americans want real healthCARE reform--medicare for all, they want out of Iraq, they want economic justice, but Obama has threatened the progressives, while claiming he has to pander to the BlueDogs. He has squandered the opportunity and will tumble down in no time. So, it is you, you who continue to maintain the status quo while lecturing the progressives to act. Progressives can win--Obama proved it, the congressman in CA proves it--which is why we aren't hearing anything about that, because the lie is we have to pander to the crowd Obama has surrounded himself with--even though they represent a failing worldview and lose at the polls.”
Virginia Governor's Race 2009: McDonnell Beats Deeds
Commented Nov 04, 2009 at 13:44:48 in Politics
“They just barely gloss over the CA Democratic win for Congress by an unabashed and unapologetic progressive.
Clue.”
Clue.”
Chernynkaya replied on Nov 04, 2009 at 13:47:47
“Yeah, and they are saying Garamendi was a shoe in. He wasn't. But he is a true liberal and will help the progressive Caucus in the House! His was an important win!”
MorgaineChya replied on Nov 04, 2009 at 13:46:29
“It is not unusua to have a progressive/liberal elected to Congress in California. It would be like if a conservative from Texas was elected to Congress. It warrants a big "so what?"”
Dylan Ratigan, Michael Moore Slam Wall St. Over Latest Round Of Bonuses (VIDEO)
Commented Oct 15, 2009 at 12:58:00 in Business
“Hell, if Obama followed Bush policy many would still be unwilling to criticize him and that is the way they "accept" the situation.”
vlm1948 replied on Oct 15, 2009 at 13:11:17
“I have written to the WhiteHouse.gov and told Obama that I will not vote for him again because of his economic policies and the fact that Sumners and Geithner are nothing more than corporate shills. My e-mail alone doesn 't bear any weight but maybe millions would get his attention. Writing to my Congressmen, Tiahrt, Roberts and Brownback are a total waste of time, but I keep the letters flowing. Other than that I don't know what could be done.”
Dylan Ratigan, Michael Moore Slam Wall St. Over Latest Round Of Bonuses (VIDEO)
Commented Oct 15, 2009 at 12:04:32 in Business
“Actually, he did backtrack if you follow his writings. I believe CommonDreams posted it--if I am permitted to mention that. He tried to blame his wife for suggesting that he had originally been "too hard on Obama".
And why has Obama earned respect? Really, I am serious--we are still in Iraq, we have expanded into Afghanistan, health INSURANCE reform is to benefit the insurance cartels at the expense of "entitlements", we are still off-shoring torture with jobs and he stands by his approving transfer of wealth for the common good--even defending the bonuses recently. What exactly wins this respect other than he is not Bush and if he did the exact same thing Bush did would you even be able to see it in your partisan blindness?”
And why has Obama earned respect? Really, I am serious--we are still in Iraq, we have expanded into Afghanistan, health INSURANCE reform is to benefit the insurance cartels at the expense of "entitlements", we are still off-shoring torture with jobs and he stands by his approving transfer of wealth for the common good--even defending the bonuses recently. What exactly wins this respect other than he is not Bush and if he did the exact same thing Bush did would you even be able to see it in your partisan blindness?”
Tyler-Durden replied on Oct 15, 2009 at 13:08:06
“partisan blindness? stop with that. i am not a democrat, nor am i an Obama drone. i see things AS THEY ARE. and he certainly did not blame his wife. it was his wife who asked him whether he was too harsh, and so he wrote a second column to address a possible misconception of his opinion.
regardless, Obama IS our president. since when in any other time in history has a president not been respected simply for achieving that position?
your attitude toward the current president is clear. you cry about the wars, you cry about the insurance companies, and you cry about torture.
first of all, these conditions were all in place during the last presidency. you make it sound like this stuff just started in January. IT DIDN'T.
secondly, you have no idea how much effort Obama has put into trying to resolve what you've listed as "undone", vs. how much effort the opposition has put into keeping it from BEING done.
your attitude is simply, this isn't done = Obama is failure.
you don't take into account any of the unprecedented amount of opposition to his administration. it's all this one guy's fault for failing to accomplish anything.
do you hear yourself? no logic at all.”
regardless, Obama IS our president. since when in any other time in history has a president not been respected simply for achieving that position?
your attitude toward the current president is clear. you cry about the wars, you cry about the insurance companies, and you cry about torture.
first of all, these conditions were all in place during the last presidency. you make it sound like this stuff just started in January. IT DIDN'T.
secondly, you have no idea how much effort Obama has put into trying to resolve what you've listed as "undone", vs. how much effort the opposition has put into keeping it from BEING done.
your attitude is simply, this isn't done = Obama is failure.
you don't take into account any of the unprecedented amount of opposition to his administration. it's all this one guy's fault for failing to accomplish anything.
do you hear yourself? no logic at all.”
AAKAlan replied on Oct 15, 2009 at 13:06:03
“Agree. Fanned.”
Dylan Ratigan, Michael Moore Slam Wall St. Over Latest Round Of Bonuses (VIDEO)
Commented Oct 15, 2009 at 11:46:01 in Business
“So, do Obama and the Democrats bear any responsibility in perpetrating this swindle--or is it obscured by partisan parlor games of us vs them to preserve the illusion of division?
The result is a muddled message from progressives like Moore who backtracked from a full-throated critique either through the old "either your with Obama or your with the NeoCon Right" noise or compartmentalized thinking always removing Obama from any context.”
The result is a muddled message from progressives like Moore who backtracked from a full-throated critique either through the old "either your with Obama or your with the NeoCon Right" noise or compartmentalized thinking always removing Obama from any context.”
vorpalmusic replied on Oct 15, 2009 at 13:39:10
“Actually, Moore explicitly stated a few weeks ago that he made this new film for "an audience of one: President Obama".”
Tyler-Durden replied on Oct 15, 2009 at 11:53:29
“of course they are partly responsible. All politicians are in this together. They had the power to prevent it, which they didn't. They have the power now to fix it, and they aren't. If this quagmire of inactivity isn't awaking the American public to realize that parties are phony, then nothing will. The time of D vs R must end here and now. It is elite vs. working class and always has been.
and Moore hasn't "backtracked", but he is certainly having a change of opinion. The people who voted for Obama did so based on what he said he would do. Now that is actions are not matching his words, doubt is forming. But again, it is still early in the administration, and he has a lot of obstacles to achieve what he said he wanted to do.
Moore is hardly removing Obama from responsibility. He is most certainly calling him to task. But he is also doing so respectfully, because he is our president, and so far he has done nothing to justify the blatant disrespect he has received so far. The last pres clearly EARNED his disrespect.”
and Moore hasn't "backtracked", but he is certainly having a change of opinion. The people who voted for Obama did so based on what he said he would do. Now that is actions are not matching his words, doubt is forming. But again, it is still early in the administration, and he has a lot of obstacles to achieve what he said he wanted to do.
Moore is hardly removing Obama from responsibility. He is most certainly calling him to task. But he is also doing so respectfully, because he is our president, and so far he has done nothing to justify the blatant disrespect he has received so far. The last pres clearly EARNED his disrespect.”
Obama Wins Nobel Peace Prize
Commented Oct 09, 2009 at 07:54:25 in Politics
“Based on what?
Since support for Obama is eroding, surely it is something that the American people are missing...An award for the first person of color to win the presidency? In that case, it should be the American people who win the prize. As compensation for the overwhelming rejection of Chicago's Olympic prospects? A cynical political calculation?
Really, I think Oslo has done the American people a disservice in propping up the illusion that Obama has done anything substantial to deserve this and their credibility will suffer as a result..”
Since support for Obama is eroding, surely it is something that the American people are missing...An award for the first person of color to win the presidency? In that case, it should be the American people who win the prize. As compensation for the overwhelming rejection of Chicago's Olympic prospects? A cynical political calculation?
Really, I think Oslo has done the American people a disservice in propping up the illusion that Obama has done anything substantial to deserve this and their credibility will suffer as a result..”
Lee Andrew replied on Oct 09, 2009 at 08:01:01
“The words inspiration leader comes to mind it is after all a Nobel human endeavor. Oh, never mind you are forever the pessimist.
I been watching the news since the president's inauguration and sometimes I got so angry like the time some students wanted to name their schools after the president and it was a public meeting and of course the dissent was that the president did not deserve such an honor it was too early.
And there was of course ASU debacle about the president's body of work not being completed yet....
This is all nonsense. A leader with the qualities which this man has comes along perhaps once every 100 years or so....
Personally I admire the president and I have been encouraged by his efforts. So much so that in summer of 2008 a project in Poland for human rights I was working on for three years I decided to name the proposed building the Obama Equality Center -- it is a vision of a place for minorities, women, LGBT and political groups to organize and promote and educate people about tolerance and equally and diversity.
We can achieve our goals -- don't allow anyone to tell you otherwise. Go out people and make this a better world.
Here's a link to my project and of course we need help.
http://obamaequalitycenter.org
As I have said, we've been working on this for three years----
--
Warmest regards,
Cordialement,
LeeAndrew”
I been watching the news since the president's inauguration and sometimes I got so angry like the time some students wanted to name their schools after the president and it was a public meeting and of course the dissent was that the president did not deserve such an honor it was too early.
And there was of course ASU debacle about the president's body of work not being completed yet....
This is all nonsense. A leader with the qualities which this man has comes along perhaps once every 100 years or so....
Personally I admire the president and I have been encouraged by his efforts. So much so that in summer of 2008 a project in Poland for human rights I was working on for three years I decided to name the proposed building the Obama Equality Center -- it is a vision of a place for minorities, women, LGBT and political groups to organize and promote and educate people about tolerance and equally and diversity.
We can achieve our goals -- don't allow anyone to tell you otherwise. Go out people and make this a better world.
Here's a link to my project and of course we need help.
http://obamaequalitycenter.org
As I have said, we've been working on this for three years----
--
Warmest regards,
Cordialement,
LeeAndrew”
keepemhonest replied on Oct 09, 2009 at 07:56:47
“Abo,
oh, come on ... admit it ... YOU are very proud to be an American today because OUR President won the Nobel Peace Prize for his initiatives in working toward a more peaceful world.
btw: President Obama worked very hard in the Senate to end nuclear stockpiles.”
oh, come on ... admit it ... YOU are very proud to be an American today because OUR President won the Nobel Peace Prize for his initiatives in working toward a more peaceful world.
btw: President Obama worked very hard in the Senate to end nuclear stockpiles.”
Why Obama Won't Be Able to Reform Wall Street
Commented Sep 16, 2009 at 11:02:45 in Business
“Naive or complicit?
Depends on who his words are really targeted to. Seems like Obama is always on the campaign, never actually being president. The speculation is he must work for the funding and the votes in order to win. But what is winning if the funding negates anything worth winning and the pandering for votes becomes an endlessly hollow refrain?”
Depends on who his words are really targeted to. Seems like Obama is always on the campaign, never actually being president. The speculation is he must work for the funding and the votes in order to win. But what is winning if the funding negates anything worth winning and the pandering for votes becomes an endlessly hollow refrain?”
oscar99 replied on Sep 16, 2009 at 12:11:33
“very well stated.......he's just trying to be liked by all, rather than do the real work of president, he does'nt get it, he's not going to be like by many,and they will do everything possible to stop him country be damn, wall street has no intentions of reforming itself, nore is congress going to do the right thing, the democrats are corrupt and republicans are racist, we're in a world of hurt.”
Manchesterian replied on Sep 16, 2009 at 11:59:49
“Neither!”
Krugman: Public Option Debate "Depressing In Its Inanity"
Commented Aug 24, 2009 at 10:57:58 in Politics
“That is garbage.
On the issues alone, the country, despite the Rightwing propaganda mill, is much more progressive than the government beholden to the corporation.
Since the Democrats, with a majority in congress and the presidency, couldn't exactly blame the completely renounced Republicans for being obstructionists or thwarting their minority agenda, it was essential to create the illusion of obstructionism in their own party. Emerge the Blue Dog MINORITY.
We have a Blue Dog, swept in during the anti-Bush sweep when any Democrat would've won. This district had a progressive D rep for years and the years following when the Right swept and Republicans were voted in, it was pro-choice, moderate Republicans.
So don't give me that sh*t about the Blue Dogs having to answer for their districts. It is a convenient construct to justify not doing what their overwhelming mandate instructs them to do.”
On the issues alone, the country, despite the Rightwing propaganda mill, is much more progressive than the government beholden to the corporation.
Since the Democrats, with a majority in congress and the presidency, couldn't exactly blame the completely renounced Republicans for being obstructionists or thwarting their minority agenda, it was essential to create the illusion of obstructionism in their own party. Emerge the Blue Dog MINORITY.
We have a Blue Dog, swept in during the anti-Bush sweep when any Democrat would've won. This district had a progressive D rep for years and the years following when the Right swept and Republicans were voted in, it was pro-choice, moderate Republicans.
So don't give me that sh*t about the Blue Dogs having to answer for their districts. It is a convenient construct to justify not doing what their overwhelming mandate instructs them to do.”
Krugman: Public Option Debate "Depressing In Its Inanity"
Commented Aug 24, 2009 at 10:49:40 in Politics
“First they whined about deregulation and get-big-government off-our- back and once they got their way and the whole thing came tumbling down and was exposed as an illusionary fraud, and they actually OWN and are the gubmint--they are still whining about the gubmint.
It is like a religion--and they just haven't got the courage to confront their fallen idol.”
It is like a religion--and they just haven't got the courage to confront their fallen idol.”
Krugman: Public Option Debate "Depressing In Its Inanity"
Commented Aug 24, 2009 at 10:44:15 in Politics
“Rather than repeating, perhaps as well it deserves mere mentioning by main-stream progressives like Krugman, that Obama is presently axing Medicare programs established for the poorest elderly and establishing restrictions on Social Security at a time of economic decline especially impacting on seniors depending on fixed incomes.
Like the early rumblings on torture that were ignored until after the fact, seniors are NOT raising red flags about "death panels" in the way that the Republicans frame and Democrats scoff---they instead are IGNORING the very real cuts presently in progress targeting the most vulnerable among us.”
Like the early rumblings on torture that were ignored until after the fact, seniors are NOT raising red flags about "death panels" in the way that the Republicans frame and Democrats scoff---they instead are IGNORING the very real cuts presently in progress targeting the most vulnerable among us.”
Health Insurers Set To Reap Financial Windfall From Health Care Overhaul
Commented Aug 24, 2009 at 08:25:00 in Politics
“Actually Obama reframed it from "Health care reform" to "health insurance reform" meanwhile they all have health insurance coverage funded by us.”
monicaangela replied on Aug 24, 2009 at 08:30:18
“If you're speaking of congressmen, they're not all wealthy, some are just rich, however it's true we do provide their healthcare coverage, and we also subsidize the healthcare of the wealthy.”
Health Insurers Set To Reap Financial Windfall From Health Care Overhaul
Commented Aug 24, 2009 at 08:21:48 in Politics
“Hey, I may have voted for him, but it doesn't mean I won't be the first in line to send him packing... the servile tool he is to the corporate master, while we are forced to tithe to the corporation that is the recepient of our tax dollars with nada left for the common good.”
Tuckerndfw replied on Aug 24, 2009 at 08:28:56
“I voted for him but I am not blind to his faults.
Those who think he's not on the corporate pad are the ones to whom I'm referring as Obamabots.”
Those who think he's not on the corporate pad are the ones to whom I'm referring as Obamabots.”
Health Insurers Set To Reap Financial Windfall From Health Care Overhaul
Commented Aug 24, 2009 at 08:13:00 in Politics
“Obama and the industry are on the same side--and everyone knows about his secret meetings and agreements. Everyone knows about the floods of funds from Insurance and drug companies and the race to secure future funding. Few, however know about the targeted Medicare cuts mentioned in small articles that disappear, happening NOW and impacting the poorest of the elderly. More will be coming aware of cuts to social security at a time when the economy is in decline for the majority--and especially for those on a fixed incomes.
In oppsition to the Clintons and their monopolization and centrist destruction of the Democrats, I voted for Obama hoping for a resusitation of the Democratic party. Instead he has, in record time, managed to raise the Bush banner.
We can only hope that more people, blinded by the alluring strains of hope and change, will come to their senses before the Obama crowd betrays the increasingly suffering people in favor of the corporate class.”
In oppsition to the Clintons and their monopolization and centrist destruction of the Democrats, I voted for Obama hoping for a resusitation of the Democratic party. Instead he has, in record time, managed to raise the Bush banner.
We can only hope that more people, blinded by the alluring strains of hope and change, will come to their senses before the Obama crowd betrays the increasingly suffering people in favor of the corporate class.”
Tuckerndfw replied on Aug 24, 2009 at 08:15:51
“Dems & Repubs are going to pass a bill requiring everyone to buy insurance.
Dems are going to call it "health care reform" and that will be the end of "health care reform."
We will be stuck with that dog for the next 50 years.
Thanks, Obamabots, too bad you are as delusional as Bushbots.”
Dems are going to call it "health care reform" and that will be the end of "health care reform."
We will be stuck with that dog for the next 50 years.
Thanks, Obamabots, too bad you are as delusional as Bushbots.”
The PolicySpeak Disaster for Health Care
Commented Aug 20, 2009 at 14:54:12 in Politics
“Maybe, but the issues belong to the Left.
The Democrats make all sorts of excuses from obstructionism to incrementalism. The Right just forges ahead. Problem is the Dems are compromised on the issues because their backroom allegiances prevents them from pushimg a full-throated charge. The Right has no such problem with conflict of interest. They may be lying manipulative crooks, but they don't have to hide whose side they are really on.
Framing is based on the assumption that the Democrats really want to push the issue, when in truth, they are more likely to compromise via triangulation.”
The Democrats make all sorts of excuses from obstructionism to incrementalism. The Right just forges ahead. Problem is the Dems are compromised on the issues because their backroom allegiances prevents them from pushimg a full-throated charge. The Right has no such problem with conflict of interest. They may be lying manipulative crooks, but they don't have to hide whose side they are really on.
Framing is based on the assumption that the Democrats really want to push the issue, when in truth, they are more likely to compromise via triangulation.”
The PolicySpeak Disaster for Health Care
Commented Aug 20, 2009 at 13:57:15 in Politics
“Maybe because they don't want to listen.
They already know how to win--that is how they won the election. They know what to say and how to frame it. They know what people want and what they want to hear.
The question then becomes whether they really want to do it rather than just say it.
And some people are just not willing to take that leap yet--they have to convince themselves that it is all in the way the issue is or isn't being promoted.”
They already know how to win--that is how they won the election. They know what to say and how to frame it. They know what people want and what they want to hear.
The question then becomes whether they really want to do it rather than just say it.
And some people are just not willing to take that leap yet--they have to convince themselves that it is all in the way the issue is or isn't being promoted.”
BlueTide replied on Aug 20, 2009 at 14:12:28
“They may win the elections, but the public discourse is still on conservative terms and conservatives seem more effective in getting their legislation passed than progressives.”
White House Protects Blue Dogs and Bullies Progressives
Commented Aug 20, 2009 at 07:39:57 in Politics
“More likely the Blue Dogs were a construct since the Democrats controlling all levers of government with majorities had no one to blame, so they need an obstruction to justify their sell out.
Question wheter the Blue Dogs truly represent conservative districts. My district has one and it isn't conservative at all, in fact for many years we had one of the most progressive members of the House representing us.”
Question wheter the Blue Dogs truly represent conservative districts. My district has one and it isn't conservative at all, in fact for many years we had one of the most progressive members of the House representing us.”
reedmaker replied on Aug 20, 2009 at 09:58:05
“"Democrats controlling all levers of government with majorities had no one to blame, so they need an obstruction to justify their sell out."
I'm starting to think this is the case. Liberals who keep insisting that OF COURSE Obama wants to "do the right thing" but just can't--I think they are fooling themselves. I have no idea what Obama stands for anymore.”
I'm starting to think this is the case. Liberals who keep insisting that OF COURSE Obama wants to "do the right thing" but just can't--I think they are fooling themselves. I have no idea what Obama stands for anymore.”
How Tough is Our President?
Commented Aug 20, 2009 at 07:30:50 in Politics
“If only. Too bad he seeks unity more with the far Right out to destroy him while repudiating his own progressive base and progressive majority.”
GenuineVeracity replied on Aug 20, 2009 at 12:02:05
“Yes, there was great support to elect this President from voters with 'progressive' views, but there was also significant endorsement from those who tend toward more 'conservative' ideals (black and hispanic communities, disenfranchised republicans, religious, independents). It can, therefore, be argued that the 'base' that launched Mr. Obama into the White House was actually far-ranging and diverse.
In reading the Obama autobiographies and studying his public record it is evident that here is a person who prefers to search for common ground to reach consensus. (This does not mean, however, that he is incapable of using an 'iron hand in the velvet glove' approach to secure a preferred result.) It is not surprising to see that he is trying to have a conversation with a wider audience.
The pigeon-holing of the population into ideological or political categories only serves to create deeper divisions and more entrenched points-of-view. Labels pour cold water on good faith attempts to foster serious conversation. Diplomacy is an art that cannot be judged superficially. The end game is what matters.”
In reading the Obama autobiographies and studying his public record it is evident that here is a person who prefers to search for common ground to reach consensus. (This does not mean, however, that he is incapable of using an 'iron hand in the velvet glove' approach to secure a preferred result.) It is not surprising to see that he is trying to have a conversation with a wider audience.
The pigeon-holing of the population into ideological or political categories only serves to create deeper divisions and more entrenched points-of-view. Labels pour cold water on good faith attempts to foster serious conversation. Diplomacy is an art that cannot be judged superficially. The end game is what matters.”
1 - 25 of 331
