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Will The Unemployment Disaster Be Obama's Katrina?
Commented Nov 24, 2009 at 00:05:51 in Politics
“W Sat around and did nothing.
He had to be shown a video showing him what happened during Katrina.
Pres. Obama is actively trying to "fix" the economy. But that doesn't happen in a day. It takes quite a bit of time to turn around a recession. It doesn't help that he has to deal with a Congress that seems to be opposed to his agenda, or at least willing to torpedo whats best for the country for their personal political gain ( See Blanche Lincoln).”
He had to be shown a video showing him what happened during Katrina.
Pres. Obama is actively trying to "fix" the economy. But that doesn't happen in a day. It takes quite a bit of time to turn around a recession. It doesn't help that he has to deal with a Congress that seems to be opposed to his agenda, or at least willing to torpedo whats best for the country for their personal political gain ( See Blanche Lincoln).”
calirighty replied on Nov 24, 2009 at 00:13:17
“What did you want him to do? Part the seas like Moses? There was no one in New Orleans who didn't know the storm wasn't coming. Bush urged people to evacuate three days before the storm hit. He does NOT have the authority to do anything with out being asked by the governors of the involved states. Bush did not build the levees. Nor did he force anyone to live in a bowl. He didn't force anyone to ignore the evacuation warnings. He didn't cause the buses to sit empty while people were dying. Stop blaming Bush and start blaming those who were responsible. That would be the Mayor of New Orleans and the Governor of Louisiana. Get back to me when you learn what the responsibilities of the different levels of government.”
adam56 replied on Nov 24, 2009 at 00:11:49
“Obama is actively trying to fix Wall Street. Don't confuse that with the trying to fix the economy. He's done absolutely nothing to create jobs, simply because he doesn't have the political guts to try.”
Lyndon Johnson, His National Security Advisor and His Secretary of Defense Say All
Commented Nov 23, 2009 at 12:05:48 in World
“Afghanistan is NOT Vietnam.
Both Vietnam and Soviet Afghanistan were proxy wars between the super powers. The Soviets and Chinese trained and provided weapons to the North Vietnamese. Both the Johnson and Nixon administrations were afraid of escalation of the war into a general conflict that could cause the Soviets to move against Berlin, triggering WWIII.
In Afghanistan during the 80s, the afghans would not have defeated the soviets were it not for the aid they received from the US and the West ( funneled through Pakistan). THey would never have shot down Soviet HIND gunships without Stinger missiles provided by the US.
Today's Afghanistan, for all its problems, is not the same case as Vietnam or Soviet Afghanistan. It may not be a good decision to stay ( whats the end game?) but these comparisons are patently wrong. Criticize Afghanistan all you want, but do so on the merits of THIS war. Not false analogies to previous wars.”
Both Vietnam and Soviet Afghanistan were proxy wars between the super powers. The Soviets and Chinese trained and provided weapons to the North Vietnamese. Both the Johnson and Nixon administrations were afraid of escalation of the war into a general conflict that could cause the Soviets to move against Berlin, triggering WWIII.
In Afghanistan during the 80s, the afghans would not have defeated the soviets were it not for the aid they received from the US and the West ( funneled through Pakistan). THey would never have shot down Soviet HIND gunships without Stinger missiles provided by the US.
Today's Afghanistan, for all its problems, is not the same case as Vietnam or Soviet Afghanistan. It may not be a good decision to stay ( whats the end game?) but these comparisons are patently wrong. Criticize Afghanistan all you want, but do so on the merits of THIS war. Not false analogies to previous wars.”
gschear replied on Nov 23, 2009 at 12:30:54
“Your points are all valid and well put.
However, all we lack at this point is a Russian Charlie Wilson, official government or perhaps ex-military out for some payback' or simply one of the newly minted Russian capitalists willing to take some of the Taliban's drug money in return for the weapons necessary to turn the nightmare up a notch for American forces. It will happen.
So yes, Afghanistan is NOT Vietnam.
Just as a fetid Central American swamp is NOT a fetid African swamp.
The choices remain the same.”
However, all we lack at this point is a Russian Charlie Wilson, official government or perhaps ex-military out for some payback' or simply one of the newly minted Russian capitalists willing to take some of the Taliban's drug money in return for the weapons necessary to turn the nightmare up a notch for American forces. It will happen.
So yes, Afghanistan is NOT Vietnam.
Just as a fetid Central American swamp is NOT a fetid African swamp.
The choices remain the same.”
NWNHNM replied on Nov 23, 2009 at 12:24:13
“Taliban and Al Qaeda have boatloads of financial and military support from Pakistan (the Taliban help the Pakistanis fight India at the Kashmir border), from Saudi Arabia and other Muslim countries (who get their money from Westerners' oil purchases), among others.
And we find out this week (from the Nation magazine) that the Taliban gets money from the US, via our private contractors who use our tax dollars to bribe the Taliban to not attack our convoys of supplies and troops - only to use this money to help them fight and kill our soldiers later on.
How does this differ from our 1980's support for the mujahadeen in Afghanistan or the USSR/China support for the Viet Cong?
And to add to the poster below about parallels between Afghanistan and Vietnam: (1) porous borders with countries that will welcome the insurgents when they need to retreat there for protection, (2) a US leadership and citizenship that doesn't understand the indigenous population or its history and so alienates the people we're intending to help, (3) a corrupt local government that violates daily the long-standing traditions, cultures and governance of the local population, (4) a mythology in the US that "if we don't stop them in this relatively small and insignificant country, they will end up attacking us here". The list goes on and on and on and...”
And we find out this week (from the Nation magazine) that the Taliban gets money from the US, via our private contractors who use our tax dollars to bribe the Taliban to not attack our convoys of supplies and troops - only to use this money to help them fight and kill our soldiers later on.
How does this differ from our 1980's support for the mujahadeen in Afghanistan or the USSR/China support for the Viet Cong?
And to add to the poster below about parallels between Afghanistan and Vietnam: (1) porous borders with countries that will welcome the insurgents when they need to retreat there for protection, (2) a US leadership and citizenship that doesn't understand the indigenous population or its history and so alienates the people we're intending to help, (3) a corrupt local government that violates daily the long-standing traditions, cultures and governance of the local population, (4) a mythology in the US that "if we don't stop them in this relatively small and insignificant country, they will end up attacking us here". The list goes on and on and on and...”
StJames replied on Nov 23, 2009 at 12:19:22
“Would you care to outline the significant differences?”
True Patriots Are Not Silent. They Speak Out.
Commented Nov 22, 2009 at 04:32:28 in Politics
“The Obama agenda depends 100% on the involvement of the liberal base. IF the right wing nut jobs dominate teh conversation, then members of Congress will hear only the opposition. They'll get scared and do nothing.
If President Obama fails to achieve his ambitious agenda, we have only ourselves to blame for ceding the debate to the crazies. President Obama may not get everythign done to liberals approval, but getting the legislation on the books is the most important part of the battle.
Social Security started off as a rather bad piece of legislation -- leaving out millions of Americans. Agricultural workers were ineligible. But Social Security was amended in the late 30s, then again in the 50s and onward. Subsequent administrations fixed the problems that were in the original bill. It became one of the most successful government programs. Had progressives bailed on FDR when Social Security was first proposed because it wasn't the perfect bill, we would have nothing now.
Likewise, this health care reform effort wont' go as far as most progressives want. It wont' be perfect. It may even be far from perfect. But getting the legislation on the books is huge. It allows for future Presidents to more easily fill in the gaps.
The same goes for all the policies. I doubt any will be approved 100% by progressives, but they will mark a start that future Congresses and Presidents can build on.”
If President Obama fails to achieve his ambitious agenda, we have only ourselves to blame for ceding the debate to the crazies. President Obama may not get everythign done to liberals approval, but getting the legislation on the books is the most important part of the battle.
Social Security started off as a rather bad piece of legislation -- leaving out millions of Americans. Agricultural workers were ineligible. But Social Security was amended in the late 30s, then again in the 50s and onward. Subsequent administrations fixed the problems that were in the original bill. It became one of the most successful government programs. Had progressives bailed on FDR when Social Security was first proposed because it wasn't the perfect bill, we would have nothing now.
Likewise, this health care reform effort wont' go as far as most progressives want. It wont' be perfect. It may even be far from perfect. But getting the legislation on the books is huge. It allows for future Presidents to more easily fill in the gaps.
The same goes for all the policies. I doubt any will be approved 100% by progressives, but they will mark a start that future Congresses and Presidents can build on.”
True Patriots Are Not Silent. They Speak Out.
Commented Nov 22, 2009 at 04:24:45 in Politics
“I find it most distressing that liberals seem to bail on the President only 11 months into office. He's working on a four year plan, yet everyone seems to expect results in a week. His administration started efforts on regulatory reform, health care, climate change, green economy, building a smart electric grid, etc.
These are not easy issues. No president has done health care reform. Every president since Teddy Roosevelt has tried to do health care reform. None have succeeded ( LBJ came the closest). Climate change legislation is extremely controversial even amongst democrats. Regulatory reform means going up against the powerful wall street interest. Three presidents have been successful doing that -- Theodore Roosevelt, William Taft and FDR. Everyone else -- for the past 60 years-- has been on the path of deregulation. You don't reverse that trend over night. It takes a lot of work.
All of these things, and more, also require cooperation from Congress. And unfortunately, everything in Congress these days requires 60 votes int eh Senate. Senators adn Congressmen see all the teabaggers, the hear the angry phone calls and read the angry e-mails from teh conservatives. They get scared and would rather do nothing-just play ti safe.
The Obama agenda is goign to be what we make of it. If liberals let the nut jobs dominate teh conversation. the Obama agenda will fail.”
These are not easy issues. No president has done health care reform. Every president since Teddy Roosevelt has tried to do health care reform. None have succeeded ( LBJ came the closest). Climate change legislation is extremely controversial even amongst democrats. Regulatory reform means going up against the powerful wall street interest. Three presidents have been successful doing that -- Theodore Roosevelt, William Taft and FDR. Everyone else -- for the past 60 years-- has been on the path of deregulation. You don't reverse that trend over night. It takes a lot of work.
All of these things, and more, also require cooperation from Congress. And unfortunately, everything in Congress these days requires 60 votes int eh Senate. Senators adn Congressmen see all the teabaggers, the hear the angry phone calls and read the angry e-mails from teh conservatives. They get scared and would rather do nothing-just play ti safe.
The Obama agenda is goign to be what we make of it. If liberals let the nut jobs dominate teh conversation. the Obama agenda will fail.”
winningticket replied on Nov 22, 2009 at 17:47:32
“Let's get one thing clear, I am not ready to bail on Obama. Far from it. But I am ready to bail on Congress if they continue to support Wall Street interests, water down the health care bill beyond futility, their refusal to cut off funding in order to end the wars in the mideast and bring the troops home, etc.”
Shirley Fisk replied on Nov 22, 2009 at 14:05:24
“11/22/09
2:05pm
Alexandria, VA
Civil rights for everybody is first. Enforce the law.”
2:05pm
Alexandria, VA
Civil rights for everybody is first. Enforce the law.”
True Patriots Are Not Silent. They Speak Out.
Commented Nov 22, 2009 at 04:13:28 in Politics
“
THe "Bail out" as you put it occurred under George W. Bush. TARP's original intent was to have the government purchase the "bad assets" from the banks. Once those assets were on teh government books, they could do as they wanted--such as reducing principle payments that homeowners owed, lowering interests rates, etc.
Instead Paulson just gave $350 bn to the banks.
So what was Pres. Obama supposed to do? Just say, welp, we've wasted 350bn. I'll need another 700 billion to do what shoudl've been done in teh first place? That would never have happened. He did the best he could with a horrible situation. It sucks. I think everyone would agree. But the blame falls with Paulson and teh Bush Administration.”
THe "Bail out" as you put it occurred under George W. Bush. TARP's original intent was to have the government purchase the "bad assets" from the banks. Once those assets were on teh government books, they could do as they wanted--such as reducing principle payments that homeowners owed, lowering interests rates, etc.
Instead Paulson just gave $350 bn to the banks.
So what was Pres. Obama supposed to do? Just say, welp, we've wasted 350bn. I'll need another 700 billion to do what shoudl've been done in teh first place? That would never have happened. He did the best he could with a horrible situation. It sucks. I think everyone would agree. But the blame falls with Paulson and teh Bush Administration.”
True Patriots Are Not Silent. They Speak Out.
Commented Nov 22, 2009 at 04:09:46 in Politics
“What lies?
Or are you saying that because President Obama has not fulfilled 100% of his campaign promises in the first 10 months in office, that means he's a liar?
He has FOUR YEARS.”
Or are you saying that because President Obama has not fulfilled 100% of his campaign promises in the first 10 months in office, that means he's a liar?
He has FOUR YEARS.”
Top Autism Panel Backs Research Objectives Mentioning Vaccines -- Dueling Press Releases Ensue
Commented Nov 13, 2009 at 17:16:54 in Living
“Yet more fuel for the anti-vaccination crowd....”
Doybia replied on Nov 14, 2009 at 23:31:13
“Speaking as an actual anti-vax person (most of the people posting here are not), this article isn't particularly relevant to the interests of parents who don't vaccinate. Most people I know who skip vaccinating study the diseases, study the vaccines (the CDC Pink Book is a very popular source of info), read a few medical studies and then make up their minds. Autism isn't the big fear, although it is a mild concern. I know a lot of unvaccinated and partially vaccinated children and overall they are a pretty healthy bunch and their parents are quite happy with the decision they made. So why should they waste time arguing about stuff on this blog or any other?
No, the people who turn up here are people who trusted the authorities and obediently vaccinated. Then they ended up with a chronically ill child and no answers--well lots of answers but most of them are incredibly unhelpful.
No, your child just appears to be really unhealthy. The 6 years of diarrhea doesn't really mean anything is wrong, and the head banging is just autism and the shadows under the eyes are not a sign of ill health either. The only thing wrong with your kid is autism, which is hereditary and just coincidentally appears at the same time as...etc.”
No, the people who turn up here are people who trusted the authorities and obediently vaccinated. Then they ended up with a chronically ill child and no answers--well lots of answers but most of them are incredibly unhelpful.
No, your child just appears to be really unhealthy. The 6 years of diarrhea doesn't really mean anything is wrong, and the head banging is just autism and the shadows under the eyes are not a sign of ill health either. The only thing wrong with your kid is autism, which is hereditary and just coincidentally appears at the same time as...etc.”
jcause28 replied on Nov 14, 2009 at 12:43:39
“no kidding”
CraigWilloughby replied on Nov 14, 2009 at 07:03:58
“Yet another pointless comment from the anti-safe vaccination crowd.”
CraigWilloughby replied on Nov 13, 2009 at 19:10:45
“Yet another pointless comment from the anti-safe vaccination crowd....”
CraigWilloughby replied on Nov 13, 2009 at 18:33:22
“Yet another inane comment from the anti-safe vaccination crowd.”
The Rules Redux: 4 Mind Games Men Play
Commented Nov 09, 2009 at 18:26:31 in Style
“Games are meant to do one thing, which is to avoid pain and humiliation. Neither men nor women want to be rejected, so they try to not invest anything emotionally or financially or any other way until they're certain the other party is interested.
They're defense mechanisms.
Both men and women use them.”
They're defense mechanisms.
Both men and women use them.”
Democratic Party Out of Bounds
Commented Nov 09, 2009 at 17:46:57 in Politics
“RJ, so you're saying you'd rather have 0 reform?
You realize that the bill doesn't pass without this amendment, don't you? This passed 220 - 215. That's 5 votes. Not exactly a huge margin here. And this bill is already too progressive to pass the Senate.
Stupak Amendment probably does just enough to get a Ben Nelson and Blanche Lincoln on board, giving the Dems 59 votes. Is the Stupak Amendment a bad amendment? Yes. But its not worth torpedoing health care reform over. Its also not the final say.
My God people, when Social Security Act was first passed in the 30s, it excluded agricultural workers. Over the next few years, it was amended to include them and various other groups that were initially left out. The point was to get the Social Security program through Congress and up and running.
The same thing goes with this HCR. Its not going to be perfect. But it'll be a hell of a lot better than what we have now. Instead of walking away from the political process, letting conservative democrats and republicans dominate the debate, progressives need to become more engaged. Get more liberal dems into the House and Senate in 2010 and 2012--then repeal the Stupak Amendment.”
You realize that the bill doesn't pass without this amendment, don't you? This passed 220 - 215. That's 5 votes. Not exactly a huge margin here. And this bill is already too progressive to pass the Senate.
Stupak Amendment probably does just enough to get a Ben Nelson and Blanche Lincoln on board, giving the Dems 59 votes. Is the Stupak Amendment a bad amendment? Yes. But its not worth torpedoing health care reform over. Its also not the final say.
My God people, when Social Security Act was first passed in the 30s, it excluded agricultural workers. Over the next few years, it was amended to include them and various other groups that were initially left out. The point was to get the Social Security program through Congress and up and running.
The same thing goes with this HCR. Its not going to be perfect. But it'll be a hell of a lot better than what we have now. Instead of walking away from the political process, letting conservative democrats and republicans dominate the debate, progressives need to become more engaged. Get more liberal dems into the House and Senate in 2010 and 2012--then repeal the Stupak Amendment.”
reddflagg replied on Nov 09, 2009 at 18:08:11
“As I predicted below, the "Schoolhouse Rock School of Legislation" is here pointing at numbers in congress. The problem with this argument is bills that pass and are signed do not work their way through congress and then to the president in a vacuum, with each house of Congress isolated from the other, or from the president. Rather, they are pushed through both houses by the president long before any debate, or vote, takes place, behind the scenes. Do you know how many republican votes were there in the Senate when Bush pushed through his horrid tax cut on the rich in the first months of 2001? 49. And he still pushed it through. This president just was unwilling or unable to do the dirty work to get a meaningful bill passed.”
ThePeacemakers replied on Nov 09, 2009 at 18:02:49
“Progressives are engaged.
You think you've seen progressives on MSM - even MSNBC?
Not.
The revolution will not be televised. Just the tea party.”
You think you've seen progressives on MSM - even MSNBC?
Not.
The revolution will not be televised. Just the tea party.”
Assault on Women's Reproductive Rights Continues with a Vengeance
Commented Nov 09, 2009 at 15:43:59 in Politics
“The pill would be analogous to Viagra and Cialis. Not abortion.
Abortion involves the killing of a fetus. You can use various euphemisms to describe what it is, but at the core its ending a life that would otherwise have existed.”
Abortion involves the killing of a fetus. You can use various euphemisms to describe what it is, but at the core its ending a life that would otherwise have existed.”
DarcieRN replied on Nov 09, 2009 at 16:21:34
“Calling a zygote or foetus a "life", and putting forth that a zygote is more important than a living, breathing, human adult woman with intelligence, autonomy (unless you get your way, of course), connections, and aspirations, is your own personal supernaturally-based belief. It is not mine. If you do not "believe" in abortion - or in blood transfusion, cardiac catheterization, having broken bones set - or any other proven, valid medical procedure - than just don't do it. I promise not to try and get laws enacted that would force you to follow my personal beliefs.
I don't believe in war waged when our country is not in imminant danger. I don't believe in propping up corporations "too big to go under". I don't believe that the so-called "war on drugs" is the right thing to be spending tax dollars on.... I don't benefit personally - and my community doesn't benefit - from a lot of things that my tax dollars are used for - but in no country do citizens get a line item veto.
Really and truly, this country is not a theocracy. The majority spoke at the last election. Most people want a government that manages institutions and infrastructures that are the obligation of government, not a paternalistic overlord that dictates what people can do in their beds, with whom they can email or have telephone conversations, what books they may check out from the library, or what health care choices that just one gender - females”
I don't believe in war waged when our country is not in imminant danger. I don't believe in propping up corporations "too big to go under". I don't believe that the so-called "war on drugs" is the right thing to be spending tax dollars on.... I don't benefit personally - and my community doesn't benefit - from a lot of things that my tax dollars are used for - but in no country do citizens get a line item veto.
Really and truly, this country is not a theocracy. The majority spoke at the last election. Most people want a government that manages institutions and infrastructures that are the obligation of government, not a paternalistic overlord that dictates what people can do in their beds, with whom they can email or have telephone conversations, what books they may check out from the library, or what health care choices that just one gender - females”
Why We Need Even More Stimulus
Commented Nov 06, 2009 at 14:09:42 in Business
“You just don't get do you?”
Roy Sekoff On The Election Wake Up Call (VIDEO)
Commented Nov 04, 2009 at 22:03:29 in Politics
“Look at the stimulus package. The Obama administration cut the payroll tax, giving middle class more $.”
UnknownSolider replied on Nov 04, 2009 at 22:31:04
“Since the MSM doesn't report Obama's tax cut for working people every five minutes people in the public have already forgotten about it.
I don't think the cut went far enough I was hoping they would do something radical like eliminating payroll taxes for 2 years, and then gradually bring them back every quarter over 2 years.”
I don't think the cut went far enough I was hoping they would do something radical like eliminating payroll taxes for 2 years, and then gradually bring them back every quarter over 2 years.”
Roy Sekoff On The Election Wake Up Call (VIDEO)
Commented Nov 04, 2009 at 22:02:52 in Politics
“No.
Corzine was a wildly unpopular governor that focused on national issues rather than issues pertaining to New Jersey. Him losing was not surprising. New Jersey was about corruption and property taxes.
Virginia is an inherently conservative state in which progressives did not turn out. Deeds ran against health care reform, against the stimulus, etc. Why should progressives turn out to vote for a guy t hat is opposed to everything they believe in?
These elections were about local issues in New Jersey and Virginia, drawing national implications is a stretch ( although that won't stop anyone...)”
Corzine was a wildly unpopular governor that focused on national issues rather than issues pertaining to New Jersey. Him losing was not surprising. New Jersey was about corruption and property taxes.
Virginia is an inherently conservative state in which progressives did not turn out. Deeds ran against health care reform, against the stimulus, etc. Why should progressives turn out to vote for a guy t hat is opposed to everything they believe in?
These elections were about local issues in New Jersey and Virginia, drawing national implications is a stretch ( although that won't stop anyone...)”
AtheistUS replied on Nov 04, 2009 at 22:39:34
“Thanks, that's really a nice timely clarification. People read too much from these two events.”
puc4u2 replied on Nov 04, 2009 at 22:34:39
“Your wrong those are not state issues but federal issues. He didn't have a vote on the stimulus or health care bills. He lost because of a lack of jobs.”
What Happened in Virginia?
Commented Nov 04, 2009 at 15:19:28 in Politics
“The problem in Virginia was that Deeds was a horrible candidate and ran a terrible campaign.
Reading anything more into this isn't useful.
Dems need to run as dems, not as Republican-lite. Congressional Dems need to get to work and get Health Care Reform finished and begin tackling the next issue.
If they do their jobs, they have nothing to worry about.
But if politicians start to worry about 2009 polls and their re-election, and decide to do nothing in 2010, then Republicans will make significant gains.”
Reading anything more into this isn't useful.
Dems need to run as dems, not as Republican-lite. Congressional Dems need to get to work and get Health Care Reform finished and begin tackling the next issue.
If they do their jobs, they have nothing to worry about.
But if politicians start to worry about 2009 polls and their re-election, and decide to do nothing in 2010, then Republicans will make significant gains.”
Is This as Good as It Gets From Obama?
Commented Nov 03, 2009 at 14:04:32 in Politics
“By all means, lets write off the entire Obama presidency after 10 months.”
Three Reasons You May Be Uneasy With Health Reform
Commented Oct 29, 2009 at 18:01:44 in Politics
“The problem with tying everything to medicare reimbursement rates is that for many smaller states, the medicare rate is simply too low.
Any Hospital is going to need MRI machines, CAT Scan machines, etc. A Hospital in LA can recoup the cost of those MRI machines relatively quickly due to volume. They may order 500 MRIs in a given week.
Compare that to a state like Nebraska. A hospital there may have 500 or fewer MRIs per year, meaning they LOSE money trying to provide the same level of care as a traditional big city/big state hospital.
Rates should be adjusted to reflect the reality on the ground and possibly based upon regions. Medicare is non-profit and government run so its ALWAYS going to be cheaper than private insurance. Cheap health insurance shouldn't drive health care providers out of business in smaller states -- really defeats the purpose of the reform.”
Any Hospital is going to need MRI machines, CAT Scan machines, etc. A Hospital in LA can recoup the cost of those MRI machines relatively quickly due to volume. They may order 500 MRIs in a given week.
Compare that to a state like Nebraska. A hospital there may have 500 or fewer MRIs per year, meaning they LOSE money trying to provide the same level of care as a traditional big city/big state hospital.
Rates should be adjusted to reflect the reality on the ground and possibly based upon regions. Medicare is non-profit and government run so its ALWAYS going to be cheaper than private insurance. Cheap health insurance shouldn't drive health care providers out of business in smaller states -- really defeats the purpose of the reform.”
who38 replied on Oct 30, 2009 at 06:01:32
“Maybe some of those Big Farma subsidies could be transferred to solve the medical cost problems in states like Nebraska.”
hp blogger RJ Eskow replied on Oct 29, 2009 at 18:30:59
“The issue of Medicare rates is complicated . There are areas where hospitals and other providers are not sufficiently compensated, and others where they do well. Medicare reimbursement rates need refinement, but that is not enough reason to keep the public option's rates separate.”
Why Women Are The Real Architects Of Peace
Commented Oct 28, 2009 at 14:13:26 in Living
“As Madeline Albright said - "Anyone that thinks the world would be at peace of women were in charge, doesn't remember High School"
"3) For women, peace takes priority over settling old scores."
Really? Have you lived in this world? You haven't seen women hold on to grudges forever? Or get back at someone that wronged them decades ago?”
"3) For women, peace takes priority over settling old scores."
Really? Have you lived in this world? You haven't seen women hold on to grudges forever? Or get back at someone that wronged them decades ago?”
hp blogger Dr. Judith Rich replied on Oct 28, 2009 at 16:58:42
“Dizmo4,
I anticipated someone raising the argument you raise, which is why I mentioned that men would probably disagree with my point. Yes, dismo4, I've lived in this world, spent 35 years working with people on their most intimate relationship issues, and I know that human beings, all of us, hold grudges at times.
Let me clarify my point, since it obviously wasn't clear, I'm referring to women's tendencies as part of a peace negotiating process where countries, villages, families, societies etc. are at stake. Women are more willing to look beyond self interests to find the greater good.
I don't mean for this post to become a gender war, so men, no offense meant. I'm not knocking men. Just giving some long over due acknowledgment to the unsung efforts of women.
I appreciate your comment, no matter what point of view you express! That's the beauty of open exchange.
Best to you,
Judith”
I anticipated someone raising the argument you raise, which is why I mentioned that men would probably disagree with my point. Yes, dismo4, I've lived in this world, spent 35 years working with people on their most intimate relationship issues, and I know that human beings, all of us, hold grudges at times.
Let me clarify my point, since it obviously wasn't clear, I'm referring to women's tendencies as part of a peace negotiating process where countries, villages, families, societies etc. are at stake. Women are more willing to look beyond self interests to find the greater good.
I don't mean for this post to become a gender war, so men, no offense meant. I'm not knocking men. Just giving some long over due acknowledgment to the unsung efforts of women.
I appreciate your comment, no matter what point of view you express! That's the beauty of open exchange.
Best to you,
Judith”
From Media Blitz to Women's Conference: Has Maria Shriver Discerned a Watershed Moment?
Commented Oct 27, 2009 at 00:48:30 in Living
“Problem isn't so much Schwarzenegger, rather its structural.
Reagan passed a laws making it nearly impossible to raise income or property taxes, even in times of dire economic consequences. Even if Schwarzenegger wanted to, the votes simply aren't there. That means California has to rely on other means of revenue. That works out great when the economy is booming, but if the economy does a nose dive then so does teh California revenue.
The overall structure of the government of California is an absolute mess requiring a great deal of reform. But neither side is willing to take that on, so you're stuck with the current situation.
The problem is a lack of leadership that has to courage to do whats necessary. Its bipartisan.”
Reagan passed a laws making it nearly impossible to raise income or property taxes, even in times of dire economic consequences. Even if Schwarzenegger wanted to, the votes simply aren't there. That means California has to rely on other means of revenue. That works out great when the economy is booming, but if the economy does a nose dive then so does teh California revenue.
The overall structure of the government of California is an absolute mess requiring a great deal of reform. But neither side is willing to take that on, so you're stuck with the current situation.
The problem is a lack of leadership that has to courage to do whats necessary. Its bipartisan.”
GraceMAC replied on Oct 27, 2009 at 01:40:40
“While what you say may be true, every move Arnold has made only makes the crisis worse. The furloughs are costing more than they are saving, and it's going to get even worse as he loses more and more lawsuits for his illegal actions (which the taxpayers will have to settle).
I don't believe his purpose was ever to alleviate the crisis, but rather to take advantage of it to destroy state service and gut public education from K through University. Seriously. I used to think he was okay, even if more conservative than really suited me. But he is a monster. I just can't respect Maria or have any faith in anything she does as long as she is with him.”
I don't believe his purpose was ever to alleviate the crisis, but rather to take advantage of it to destroy state service and gut public education from K through University. Seriously. I used to think he was okay, even if more conservative than really suited me. But he is a monster. I just can't respect Maria or have any faith in anything she does as long as she is with him.”
Why is Harry Reid Covering Up a Secret Senate Filibuster?
Commented Oct 26, 2009 at 15:04:18 in Politics
“GOP Governors aren't nearly as crazy as their elected members of Congress.”
DonRoberto replied on Oct 27, 2009 at 07:49:10
“I'd put it differently --- crazy governors have to deal with the same laws and same political realities as sane governors, so they usually come up with sane (or at least, sane-ish) solutions.
Crazy Congresspeople, not so much.”
Crazy Congresspeople, not so much.”
bigsexyshaq replied on Oct 26, 2009 at 15:40:39
“Are you sure about that?”
Congress "Getting Completely Crushed" With Over 100,000 Calls For Obama's Healthcare Reform
Commented Oct 21, 2009 at 14:03:03 in Politics
“I hope everyone keeps up the calling. If this is only a one day event then Conservadems can dismiss it.
But if Congress is flooded day after day after day with calls, letters, emails demanding a public option then they cannot ignore the people.”
But if Congress is flooded day after day after day with calls, letters, emails demanding a public option then they cannot ignore the people.”
HuffPost Editor Roy Sekoff Denounces Mission Creep In Afghanistan
Commented Oct 15, 2009 at 16:21:00 in Politics
“It's sad that everyone seems to grossly oversimplify the Afghanistan.
Yes, Al Qaeda is in Pakistan and there are relatively few Al Qaeda members in Afghanistan. But what people fail to realize is that at this point there is little or no difference between Al Qaeda and the Taliban or any other group opposing the US/NATO forces in Afghanistan and the Pakistani Government in Pakistan. They've become an amalgamation of extremists. At this point its entirely how you choose to classify them--you could say there are 100 Al Qaeda total in Afghanistan based upon one classification. Another could have 1000s.
Second, the Taliban isn't a monolith, they're a loose alliance of various interests that have found a common foe. This means that certain elements of the Taliban can be negotiated with.
Third, THe US/NATO force is the only thing keeping the "afghan Government" in power, if we leave then it will collapse. That may be all fine and good but everyone must understand what the consequence of that collapse is. Women of Afghanistan will be utterly brutalized. There will be massacres, there will be torture of anyone that supported the Karzai Government/US/NATO.”
Yes, Al Qaeda is in Pakistan and there are relatively few Al Qaeda members in Afghanistan. But what people fail to realize is that at this point there is little or no difference between Al Qaeda and the Taliban or any other group opposing the US/NATO forces in Afghanistan and the Pakistani Government in Pakistan. They've become an amalgamation of extremists. At this point its entirely how you choose to classify them--you could say there are 100 Al Qaeda total in Afghanistan based upon one classification. Another could have 1000s.
Second, the Taliban isn't a monolith, they're a loose alliance of various interests that have found a common foe. This means that certain elements of the Taliban can be negotiated with.
Third, THe US/NATO force is the only thing keeping the "afghan Government" in power, if we leave then it will collapse. That may be all fine and good but everyone must understand what the consequence of that collapse is. Women of Afghanistan will be utterly brutalized. There will be massacres, there will be torture of anyone that supported the Karzai Government/US/NATO.”
BusGreg replied on Oct 15, 2009 at 16:48:25
“And with all the signs leading to the conclusion that Afghanistan's elections were tainted - possibly one third of all votes - you suggest keeping that "government" protected by our troops??
Yes there will be massacres and there will be women who will be brutalized. There are somethings we can't change and continuing or repeating mistakes of the past will only guarantee more of the same.
Had we done the right thing under Bush and cleaned up Al-Quaida in Afghanistan and not permitted Bin-Ladin to escape from Tora-Bora, we'd be years ahead. The previous occupier of the White House thought it prudent to lie us into an un-necessary war with Iraq and create terrorist sympathizers with his failed policy, rather than fighting the war against Al-Quaida to a successful conclusion.
We should not continue the failed ways of Cheney-Bush.”
Yes there will be massacres and there will be women who will be brutalized. There are somethings we can't change and continuing or repeating mistakes of the past will only guarantee more of the same.
Had we done the right thing under Bush and cleaned up Al-Quaida in Afghanistan and not permitted Bin-Ladin to escape from Tora-Bora, we'd be years ahead. The previous occupier of the White House thought it prudent to lie us into an un-necessary war with Iraq and create terrorist sympathizers with his failed policy, rather than fighting the war against Al-Quaida to a successful conclusion.
We should not continue the failed ways of Cheney-Bush.”
Why Joe Biden Should Resign
Commented Oct 14, 2009 at 22:56:20 in World
“I don't think Ariana has ever been more wrong.
How will Biden resigning do anything to advance the position you're advocating? It'd do nothing but make Pres. Obama look even weaker than he already appears. It'd leave Gates, Clinton, McChrystal, Patraeus, Jones, etc as the only voices at the table.
Then Biden would what? Take over as head of the anti-war wing of the Democratic party? But wait, he isn't anti-war, he's just for a more limited type of war in Afghanistan.
You're basically advocating that the Dems punt on national security, leaving a huge hole for Republicans to run on in 2010 and 2012.”
How will Biden resigning do anything to advance the position you're advocating? It'd do nothing but make Pres. Obama look even weaker than he already appears. It'd leave Gates, Clinton, McChrystal, Patraeus, Jones, etc as the only voices at the table.
Then Biden would what? Take over as head of the anti-war wing of the Democratic party? But wait, he isn't anti-war, he's just for a more limited type of war in Afghanistan.
You're basically advocating that the Dems punt on national security, leaving a huge hole for Republicans to run on in 2010 and 2012.”
Health 'Opt-Out': Brilliant Maneuver or Crippling Compromise?
Commented Oct 09, 2009 at 12:04:16 in Politics
“What they've become?
They've always been this way.....”
They've always been this way.....”
The Right Time to Repeal Don't Ask Don't Tell Is Now
Commented Oct 05, 2009 at 20:23:37 in New York
“How about we focus on getting Health Care Reform with a strong public option passed first, Senator?
Congress has thus far proven completely unable to do anything effectively. Lets not further complicate matters by adding yet another issue.”
Congress has thus far proven completely unable to do anything effectively. Lets not further complicate matters by adding yet another issue.”
jmpurser replied on Oct 05, 2009 at 20:34:20
“Real health care reform isn't going to pass this presidential term. So we might as well get SOMETHING done.”
Sexual Harassment Be Damned! Here's Why Dave Won't Drive Away Women
Commented Oct 05, 2009 at 16:37:49 in Media
“Its frowned upon because it could potentially open up corporations to lawsuits.”
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