Well, Christmas is over and it’s time to get back to the real world. The slow-bama economic recovery is still limping along at a snail’s pace halfway through the third year since the recession ended in June 2009. There are still 15 million under-and unemployed people, and another wonderful speech isn’t going to give them a larger paycheck, or any paycheck at all. The old Europe socialist experiment is still in full financial meltdown, with huge accumulated sovereign debt crushing their economies. The good ole USA still seems like it wants to join them with the national debt at $15+ TRILLION and going steadily higher. And the stock markets did nothing for the year, unless you were an active stock picker and trader (and did it in your IRA so you don’t have to give any profits to the govt to waste on stupid unicorn fantasy ideas like Solyndra – Oh yeah, that was really a payback to a huge Barry campaign contributor. My bad.) And Gallup is reporting that Barry’s job approval is up to 47 percent, proving that half the country is too stupid to be trusted with the right to vote.

Happy New Year!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Tis the Season To be Silly @ FOX News

Someone really needs to pinch these Grinchs over @ FOX NOISE. The talking points and headlines had nothing whatsoever to do with the Christmas spirit of giving. Rather, their talking points were more like the Disciples of Satan. Just in case the fools @ FOX NOISE forgot Jesus was born homeless in a manger in a barn. Yet the faux Christians scorned OWS and the homeless. Also Jesus was an immigrant. His parents had to flee to another land from King Herod.

I thought is was so silly that these Grinchs spent the Holidays bashing the President with the same old tired propaganda and skewed truths. Here is a list of their cold re-hash:

Busy Vacation Schedule Belies President's Self-Description of Laziness

December 26, 2011

Read more: http://politics.blogs.foxnews.com/2011/12/26/busy-vacation-schedule-belies-presidents-self-description-laziness#ixzz1hk3LhjVi

Anti-Abortion Group Sues for Documents on U.S. Funding of New Hampshire Planned Parenthood

December 26, 2011

Read more: http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2011/12/26/life-group-files-suit-seeking-documents-on-fed-funding-nh-planned-parenthood/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+foxnews%2Fpolitics+%28Internal+-+Politics+-+Text%29#ixzz1hk3ePUlA

Truth: Planned Parenthood does not and cannot use federal funds to pay for its clinics' abortion services.

http://www.nytimes.com/2011/02/18/us/politics/18parenthood.html

http://www.boston.com/news/politics/politicalintelligence/2011/03/brown_says_to_c.html

http://www.boston.com/news/politics/politicalintelligence/2011/03/brown_says_to_c.html

The Grinchs brought back this old FOX NOISE POLL from Dec 9th on Dec 25th.

Fox News Poll : Disapproval of President Obama Is Up

Fri, 9 Dec 2011
http://www.foxnews.com/topics/fox-news-polls.htm

Can you believe it? Those LIARS used a 2 week old poll to indoctrinate their haters.

Truth: Gallup: Obama job approval surges
12/26/11

http://www.politico.com/politico44/2011/12/gallup-obama-job-approval-roars-back-108712.html

Worse, Falsehoods And Fear Mongering About Voter Fraud

================================================
Wouldn't you just know that FOX NOISE would trot out the voter fraud fake meme and ACORN?

It has been proven you stand a better chase of getting hit by lighting than committing voter fraud. But, the righteous hypocrites over @ The New Jim Crow Society aka FOX NEWS are pointing out that everyone needs an ID. For instance FOX NOISE says you need an ID to prove:

you are who you are
for credit card sales
to get into secure buildings
the list goes on ad infinitum from the fiends @ FOX NOISE as they sit their crackling.

They even point out how the states will give away free IDs.

But, what the fiends don't point out is that MVRs want birth certificates which many of the minorities, seniors, students and unemployed don't have the money for. Neither do the fiends mention that many of the MVRs are not open long or provide a way for the minorities to get there. Very often there is no transportation to get to these MVRs. For working people the MVRs are closed on weekends. Neat; huh?

Methods of voter suppression

1.1 Impediments to voter registration
1.2 Photo ID laws
1.3 Purging voter rolls
1.4 Jim Crow laws
1.5 Ex-felon disenfranchisement
1.6 Disinformation about voting procedures
1.7 Partisan election administration
1.8 Inequality in Election Day resources
1.9 Caging lists
1.10 Loss of rights due to felony conviction and Felony disenfranchisement

Michigan Republican state legislator John Pappageorge was quoted as saying, "If we do not suppress the Detroit vote, we're going to have a tough time in this election.".[27]

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Voter_suppression

So if President Obama doesn't have a record to run on; then why do RepubliCONS need to steal votes?

Iowa, one week off. Can't wait to watch the Repugs eat their own election day. Let the fun begin.

Now let's watch our President take off on his run for his second term. And Mr. President, please make all those necessary appointments you need while the clowns are out of town. I love it.

Obama in 2012.

Joe in Albany

Oh yeah, that was really a payback to a huge Barry campaign contributor. My bad.) And Gallup is reporting that Barry’s job approval is up to 47 percent, proving that half the country is too stupid to be trusted with the right to vote.

Happy New Year!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Um,Joee

That would make you dumb. Other polls have had the President up. It's just that Gallup finally caught up with the rest of the country and the world.

What else can I fill you in on?

Beverly, well done. It's beyond me how people can listen to FOX let alone accept everything said as truth; apparently, FOX viewers never both with Google.

Bev,

I was looking at the statistics at infoplease about voter turnout. You can really see the trend between wins by the GOP and wins by the Dems. Low turnout = GOP, high = Dems.

proving that half the country is too stupid to be trusted with the right to vote.

You can add the idiot from Albany to those who favor voter suppression, Bev!

If they had their way, only white land owners should be afforded the privilege to vote!

Hope everyone had a nice Christmas! Now , let's get to some facts. The economy seems to be on a slow steady recovery. President Obama's job approval is up to 47%, which, by the way is just a bit higher than our last president, (remember him?). The Republican party still has a comedic routine perfoming as it's best and brightest continue to dazzle us with their incredible perception of what's best for us as Americans.

@Joe, you are somewhat correct. I just think you have the 2 halves mixed up. :)

Feisty Redhead Roselle, IL

Remember, there is a reason Faux News viewers are considered the least informed!

And, you all continue to prove WHY!

Feisty,

And you know it. Just wait until next week. Lies are gonna go to the stratosphere in IOWA.

And the stock markets did nothing for the year...

Year-To-Date the DJIA is +6.19%. Actually in the first half of the year things were looking pretty good...even hit a high for the year of 12876.

But then something funny happened and somebody pissed in our corn flakes. It happened right around August and into September of this year and the DJIA dropped to 10404.

Hey, wasn't that right around the time the Tea Partiers said, "We're not going to pay our bills!"?

phinephancy-4252115

I was looking at the statistics at infoplease about voter turnout. You can really see the trend between wins by the GOP and wins by the Dems. Low turnout = GOP, high = Dems.

phinephancy

Did they have any info on how George W Bush Stole the elections twice?

I hope you had a Joyous Christmas

Actually, only 50% of American voters turned out in 2000. (55% in 2004) I will dig into their numbers for you and give you the actual break down, but for sure he stole 2000. Say thank you SCOTUS.

Jody, Iowa

Beverly, well done. It's beyond me how people can listen to FOX let alone accept everything said as truth; apparently, FOX viewers never both with Google.

Jody, Iowa

Even if they did Google they wont believe it. You see they are trained to not belive any thing unless it is FOX NOISE. The other media outlets are the evil librul. LOL LOL LOL I'm with Northstar DFL.

Let it snow Let it snow in Iowa

Year-To-Date the DJIA is +6.19%. Actually in the first half of the year things were looking pretty good...even hit a high for the year of 12876.

_______________________________________________

Absolutely right, Da Rhiod.

Of course, I do find it ironic that a lefty liberal like you is touting the success of a 30 stock index of the top 1% of corporations with the likes of tax cheapskates like GE, and evil big oil companies like Exxon Mobil, and Wall Street TARPer's like Bank of America!!!!!!

I'm not complaining. I had an OK year in the stock markets. Not a great year, but, I'll take any year where I end the year with more money than I started the year with, when most of the markets sucked.

@Bev

According to infoplease, 47.87% for Bush, and 48.38% for Gore in 2000. Definitely stole that. (I don't want to talk about 'chads')

In 2004, it was 50.7% for Bush, and 48.3 % Kerry. We could again talk Florida and Ohio, who, by the way are two of the states trying to enact voter suppression laws, favoring the GOP.

Joe in Albany Do all you republican/tea bag types say the same old sh!t all the time? Why don't you try to talk us into joining your party. If its so good than we all should be in it. There hasn't been a time when I've been on here to hear anyone say why we should vote republican/tea bag. Please tell me what your party has done, and what it will do for the folks who make less than 100 thousand dollars a year? Please tell me why I should vote for the republican/tea bag party? What all the good things the the republican/tea bag party has given us as Americans in the last forty years?

@Smitty

You mean you don't appreciate all the misery that the GOP policies have inflicted on the American people? Careful, they might think you un-American!

Why don't you try to talk us into joining your party.

______________________________________

Sorry, Sh!tty, I have never been a member of ANY political party. BOTH major parties are full of morons. 100% registered independent since I first voted at age 18.

You can add the idiot from Albany to those who favor voter suppression, Bev!

__________________________________

Not at all, Nasty Redhead. Stupid people do have a right to vote, even you.

I just don't have to like it, even if I believe in it.

"In a democracy, people get the government they deserve," a quote often attributed to Alexis de Toqueville. It explains why Washington and most states are FUBAR.

'nuff said.

Smitty,

Don't hold your breath for Joe or any of the other GNoP Regulars to say anything good about their own party. A few weeks ago I tried getting some of the regulars to declare who they supported for the GOP nomination. I didn't get many responses from them. They just want to run "ABO"...but that won't be a choice on the ballot.

Morning Feisty and Bev. Yes indeed, FOX is very misleading and it viewers believe their garbage, when fact checks prove them wrong.

You know, back on November 11th, the daily kos put forth an idea that a national id card be issued. Anyone holding it could vote. No more of these laws, then, to suppress the right to vote. Just throwing that out there to see what folks think.

~~~~~~"Huntsman is the Best of them all, the rest are Turkey's"~~~~~~~~~~

~~~~~~~~~~~~~"Newt shopping at Tiffany's is for hogs"~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

phinephancy-4252115

@Bev

According to infoplease, 47.87% for Bush, and 48.38% for Gore in 2000. Definitely stole that. (I don't want to talk about 'chads')

In 2004, it was 50.7% for Bush, and 48.3 % Kerry. We could again talk Florida and Ohio, who, by the way are two of the states trying to enact voter suppression laws, favoring the GOP.

phinephancy,

Of course they are and any other states President Obama won. Karl Rove, the turd blossom, was supposed to be going to court for racketeering in Ohio.

Karl Rove’s guy Mike Connell signed a CONTRACT with OH SoS Ken Blackwell to HACK THE VOTE in ’04! New court filing reveals all!
New court filing reveals how the 2004 Ohio presidential election was hacked.

http://markcrispinmiller.com/2011/07/karl-roves-guy-mike-connell-signed-a-contract-with-oh-sos-ken-blackwell-to-hack-the-vote-in-04-new-court

Spoonamore's affidavit was explosive, because the whistleblower revealed that Mike Connell had informed him that radical Republican operatives could have manipulated the results of elections including the presidential election of 2004 and the general election of 2006.

http://thewe.cc/contents/more/archive/united_states_voting_procedures.html

Mike Connell Karl Rove's IT Guru who helped Steal Elections Killed. Karl Rove Thrilled?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kxtm5RF_6Ow

Don't forget Don Siegelman!!!

~~~~~~~~"Tea-ReTard Zoo Fans are flocking to their Cockroach's"~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Well Hello Ladies, I trust we all have excellent Christmas's and are now well rested for the trials that come.....

(Psst, phine @1.15, I wont speak of those damn chads if you don't)

I believe that there was one of those liberal arts colleges that has a political science department that did an analysis of the 2000 election from every conceiveable angle and came to the conclusion that the only way Gore won was if you take an extremely favorable view for the democrats of the ballots in question.

The News media did the first analysis;

They came to the conclusion that the only way Gore would have won is if you use a very "Generous" method of counting questioned ballots.

The University of Chicago in their later analysis said essentially the same thing except in favor of Gore

web.archive.org/web/20080724084023/ (the only way to access norc at this time is thru the web archive)

Nobody is ever going to know who actually won in Florida in 2000, there were too many highly questionable things happening on both sides, of course the stakes were very high.

Joe,

I have never been a member of ANY political party. BOTH major parties are full of morons. 100% registered independent since I first voted at age 18.

You may consider yourself an independent, but you think and talk like a Republican--and not a moderate one, at that.

Egilman,

It didn't help that the governor of Florida was the GOP presidential candidate's brother! The voting would have gone for Gore, of that I am sure. South Florida would have done the trick. I lived through that mess, and we heard about for years.

Albany Joe, what "stupid people" voting means is, like beauty, in the eye of the beholder. Personally, those who voted for President George W Bush the first time were delusional and the second time, just plain stupid but you see, that's my version of what it means to be a "stupid" voter. Beyond that, I believe no voter is "stupid" as long as he/she votes for the person he/she thinks is best. I believe in encouraging all citizens to vote regardless of their education, their politics, their race, gender or religion. I may disagree with their political views but I do not believe in suppressing anyone's vote.

Joe in Albany says: "Sorry, Sh!tty, I have never been a member of ANY political party. BOTH major parties are full of morons. 100% registered independent since I first voted at age 18"

All that means is you have no core, you are just a pathetic chronic complainer who sits on the sidelines, criticizing those trying to help others or to make a difference. How sad.

Now that the bogus 'Bo' the dog nontroversy has been thoroughly debunked!

Right.....it's debunked because the Big O says it never happened. Shame on him....calling his neighbor a liar.

http://www.staradvertiser.com/news/breaking/135842778.html?id=135842778

Not to mention the Chicago Sun Times.

http://blogs.suntimes.com/sweet/2011/12/michelle_obama_sasha_malia_and_1.html

I would believe either of those before I would a proven liar who is so petty as to lie about flying home a dog.

Bill Mahr was right about those who support Obama. They don't understand the issues and are not capable of doing so.

Doug, what in heck are you blathering about, you seem to be mixing your messages. From your link

Michelle Obama, Sasha, Malia Hawaii vacation update
By Lynn Sweet on December 19, 2011 11:07 AM | No Comments

CORRECTION: Bo did not accompany Mrs. Obama and daughters to Hawaii, as incorrectly reported a local Hawaii outlet.

WASHINGTON--While President Obama delayed his departure to wrestle with Congress, First Lady Michelle, daughters Malia, 13, Sasha, 10 and Bo the dog flew to Hawaii for their annual winter vacation. The Hawaii newspapers are keeping tabs on the First Family. They arrived in Hawaii on Saturday. The First Family returned to a rental home in Kailua, Oahu, they have stayed in previous years.

phinephancy,

Here is more info on Don Siegelman.

In June 2007, a Republican lawyer, Dana Jill Simpson of Rainsville, Alabama, signed a sworn statement that, five years earlier, she had heard that Karl Rove was preparing to neutralize Siegelman politically with an investigation headed by the U.S. Department of Justice.^[23] Simpson later told The Birmingham News that her affidavit's wording could be interpreted in two ways, and stated that she had written her affidavit herself, whereas in her Congressional testimony she had admitted to having help from a Siegelman supporter.^[24] According to Simpson's statement, she was on a Republican campaign conference call in 2002 when she heard Bill Canary tell other campaign workers not to worry about Siegelman because Canary's "girls" and "Karl" would make sure the Justice Department pursued the Democrat so he was not a political threat in the future.^[23] "Canary's girls" supposedly included his wife, Leura Canary, who is United States Attorney for the Middle District of Alabama, and United States Attorney for the Northern District of Alabama Alice Martin.^[23]

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Don_Siegelman#Karl_Rove_connection

A three-judge panel of the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals thoroughly examined the legal issues in the "pay-to-play" case involving Mr. Siegelman and former HealthSouth CEO Richard Scrushy. The panel concluded the evidence presented at trial wasn't strong enough to support two mail fraud counts against the former governor.

However, the judges upheld the charge at the heart of the corruption case — that Mr. Siegelman appointed Mr. Scrushy to an influential health care board in exchange for $500,000 in con tributions to a campaign for a state lottery.

The court found that testimony in the trial was "competent evidence that Siegelman and Scrushy had agreed to a deal in which Scrushy's donation would be rewarded with a seat on (the board). The jurors were free to give it a different construction, but they did not." In other words, the trial produced evidence of an illegal quid pro quo: something given or received in return for something else. The appeals court found the jury made its decision based on legitimate evidence.

http://www.al.com/opinion/press-register/editorials.ssf?/base/opinion/12367629954220.xml&coll=3

Doug,

Whether Ponders is a moniker or your last name, it appears to be an oxymoron.

You'll believe any negative comment about President Obama. No reflection, no second thoughts. If it's negative, it's got to be true.

I would believe either of those before I would a proven liar who is so petty as to lie about flying home a dog.

Well, okay then!

http://www.politico.com/politico44/2011/12/bo-was-not-secretly-flown-back-to-dc-says-wh-108644.html

The funniest part of this conspiracy theory, the right wing nut jobs floated the exact same rumor LAST year about Bo flying separately to Maine!

These idiots are so desperate they're reduced to re-runs! lmao!

Nothing like the smell of neocons sweating...

All that means is you have no core, you are just a pathetic chronic complainer who sits on the sidelines, criticizing those trying to help others or to make a difference.

______________________________________________

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Thanks for proving my point:

"In a democracy, people get the government they deserve," a quote often attributed to Alexis de Toqueville. It explains why Washington and most states are FUBAR.

Bev,

That is just plain, old fashioned disgusting. One simple question, why isn't Karl Rove in prison? The one thing I get frustrated with President Obama's DOJ is the fact they didn't go after these, these, these - well, I can't think of a name to call them that would be bad enough and show my utter contempt for them.

One more thing about Republican voter fraud thief phinephancy,

12/23/2011

~snip~

U.S. EAC Finds ES&S Paper Ballot Scanners Used Across the Country Fail to Count Votes Correctly

For first time, compromised federal agency admits their previous certification was deeply flawed.

The federal agency responsible for inspecting voting equipment said Thursday that a ballot scanner used in several key battleground states can freeze up without warning, fail to log errors and misread ballots.

The U.S. Election Assistance Commission said the ballot reader, made by Omaha-based ES&S, is not in compliance with federal standards. And while it's the first time the 8-year-old agency has taken such a step, it falls just short of decertification — a move that could force election officials to abandon the machines on the eve of the 2012 presidential primaries.

http://www.bradblog.com/?p=9006

=========================================================

YUP, that's what these dogs plan. They have no plans to run on as far as this economy or social values are concerned so they plan to do voter suppression and steal steal the election.

Joe,

Yes, but the question remains: Why are you so embarrassed to admit you're a Republican?

Bev,

It seems they feel it is the only way to win. What Rick Scott has tried to pull off here in Florida caused a former SecState of Florida - a Republican, BTW, to write an op/ed piece that was in all the major papers in Florida about a month ago. In it he stated he was embarrassed that his party in the legislature had voted for these new forms of "Jim Crow" laws and hoped the DOJ would put it end to it. (He is also none to pleased with our tea party governor, but that is for another day!)

LOL, Albany Joe claims that being "independent" makes him a more conscientious voter, he's free of the political ties. As Jack Portsmouth implied, if it walks like a duck, it is a duck--you walk and talk like a republican so that makes you about as independent as Donald Trump!

phinephancy-4252115

One simple question, why isn't Karl Rove in prison? The one thing I get frustrated with President Obama's DOJ is the fact they didn't go after these, these, these - well, I can't think of a name to call them that would be bad enough and show my utter contempt for them.

I do too

I don't know. I speculate our President is taking a page from our First African American Mayor, Harold Washington. Do you remember the "Vrdolyak 29" and the Council Wars?

The "Vrdolyak 29" voted as a solid bloc. In the first session of the 1983-1987 term, the "Vrdolyak 29" voted themselves complete control of every Council committee. Over the next three years, they voted down all of the mayor's proposals and appropriations. They also voted down all of his appointments, which was purely symbolic, as the appointees could still serve as interim officeholders.

The Vrdolyak 29 had a majority of votes, but not enough to override Washington's veto, thus creating legislative gridlock. Chicago became known as "Beirut by the Lake." Some legislation was passed and city budgets were approved, but it was a drawn out and ugly affair.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Council_Wars

=====================================================

Sounds like Mitch McConnel; eh?

Any how some people who had access to Mayor Harold Washington said the Mayor had said he wanted to pick the right fight at he right time. In other words Mayor Washington wanted to win the war and not the battle. Perhaps with all the opposition and and GOP Libertarian money from the Koch Haters, President Obama is taking a page from Mayor Washington's playbook.

President Obama may feel the time is not ripe. I think President Obama wanted to focus on the mess Bush left which is an arduous task of years and years. Dunno

Bev,

I think you are spot on with the picking the right fights. I wonder if you will see a different agenda regarding these and other issues in regards to the DOJ in the 2nd term? Could get a little "hot" for some in the opposition party! Although, history shows the Dems to let "by gones be by gones" while the GOP shows a more vindictive streak.

Joe in Albany

Sorry, Sh!tty, I have never been a member of ANY political party. BOTH major parties are full of morons. 100% registered independent since I first voted at age 18.

Christ, you're a prick.

Regardless of your voter registration card, you give every appearance of the neo-conservatism that has been a pox on the American political landscape for the post 30 years. Have you ever voted for a Democrat?

Here's the deal, dude. You can wrap a turd in a Hershey's wrapper, but it doesn't change the fact it's still a pile of @!$%#.

Are you following me on this?

A challenge: Link me any of your posts -- ever -- that hold the Republican party or the Liptonites duly responsible for any number of the crises we're facing.

It's deplorable to even begin to presume Mr. Obama could have done all this damage in just three years. It's irresponsible to continue to perpetuate that myth in a public forum with the fervor you exhibit time and time again.

Grow up. Act your age. Set aside the ridiculous name calling. It's not all that creative and certainly not entertaining.

***QUESTION***

Why are you liberals so bent on people having to show ID and identify themselves when they are voting on whether or not to join a union, but think that no ID should be required when voting for IMPORTANT things, like who will lead our nation?

If Romney gets elected the White House hound will be riding Air Force One...on the roof.

Damage123

***QUESTION***

Why are you liberals so bent on people having to show ID and identify themselves when they are voting on whether or not to join a union, but think that no ID should be required when voting for IMPORTANT things, like who will lead our nation?

***QUESTION***

When topics of relevance pop up painting the "conservative" parties in (some say deserving) deserving dark light, why is the first step of defending policy to create a diversion and try to change the subject?

Politico? That hack website? That's almost as hilarious as Ginger's "correction".

You'll believe any negative comment about President Obama. No reflection, no second thoughts. If it's negative

Or if it's true. You FR obots will believe nothing negative about him and rely on hack websites like Politico to tell you what to think.

What of the man who saw the dog in Hawaii?

Ahh, Ponders. Glad you're back. I have a question for you--two actually. The first is, do you believe the President was born in this country? The second is, do you believe he won't reveal his grades for some dark, nefarious reason? I'd really like to know.

Doug Ponders

Politico? That hack website? That's almost as hilarious as Ginger's "correction".

It's is hack, but that's not the point.

Let's be clear on who Politico is, okay? It is the same organization accused of pandering to the Republican party in 2007. The same news source that is presidented by a former assistant to Ronald Reagan. The same newspaper that regularly hosts national Republican debates.

It's followed by about 7 million followers at unique IPs every month. Regardless of your "hack" label, the point being made is that this @!$%# is being absorbed as Scripture by a significant number of people.

That's scary. This is important because scary is generally the opposite of hilarious.

Come on, Ponders, answer the questions. You're among friends.

Joe in Albany You called me @!$%#ty, but thats what you have for brains! You never answered a question. Please don't give me the the independent crap. You think by saying your an independent doesn't mean you don't vote republican/tea bag. The best part here is that every time you post we all see really who you are. Please take a moment and think about it. You are what you write.

Be nice to move on to New Hampshire after Iowa finally "slops the Hogs" there. One thing is sure. Everyone can keep track of 'em simply be following their manure trails spilling from their "heads or asses" as they move about the country. I will give deference to Romneys "Undertaker/Embalmer. Seldom see an upright Corpse put to so much use, and still be able to hold it's own, giving way only by "flipping and flopping", yet, never quite falling down.

Yes, but the question remains: Why are you so embarrassed to admit you're a Republican?

________________________________________

Jack, get a life for yourself and stop worrying about me. If you're hard up for cash, I'd be happy to recommend that Barry make you a federal govt guaranteed half-billion dollar loan to buy one, with many of my tax dollars included, um.... wasted. Call it the latest Barry stimulus plan: "Cash for Losers".

I'm an independent, fiscal conservative and a libertarian on social issues.

If you have a problem with that, then I guess it sucks to be you.

LMAO@U!!!!!!!!

You Just Said What, Change the subject? Well, of course they change the subject. Even children do it. Mom says brush your teeth, child says why? That changes the subject from brushing to a long, time consuming discussion about dental health which mom may not be willing to endure. So it is the same hereabouts, unfortunately.

It is much the same with the 50 Cent Party. Here's a definition from Wikipedia:

The 50 Cent Party is a pejorative unofficial term for Internet commentators hired by the government of the People's Republic of China (both local and central) or the Communist Party to post comments favorable towards party policies in an attempt to shape and sway public opinion on various Internet message boards. The commentators are said to be paid for every post that either steers a discussion away from anti-party or sensitive content on domestic websites, bulletin board systems, and chatrooms,^[3] or that advances the Communist party line.

Maybe I have assisted you in your quest for truth. The quest for truth can be undone by the subject changer, I think.

Happy New Year to all who seek the truth.

Live long and prosper, YJSW.

LOL, Albany Joe claims that being "independent" makes him a more conscientious voter, he's free of the political ties.

_______________________________________________

Jody, this is an example of why the country is very poorly served by allowing a bunch of Iowa corn farmers have such a HUGE outsized influence in who we get to vote for as the USA's Chief Executive Officer. You and most of the FR lefty liberals are waaaay too beholding to morons like da Rev. Al and "Mr. Ed" Schultz.

Thanks for also proving my point:

"In a democracy, people get the government they deserve," a quote often attributed to Alexis de Toqueville. It explains why Washington and most states are FUBAR.

BTW, I voted for "Slick Willy" Clinton in 1992 because I thought GHW Bush was a moron.

It's proof of the saying "If you're 18 and not a liberal, you don't have a heart. If you're 45 and not a conservative, you don't have a brain."

Joe in Albany

Jack, get a life for yourself and stop worrying about me.

Interestingly ironic.

If you're hard up for cash, I'd be happy to recommend that Barry make you a federal govt guaranteed half-billion dollar loan to buy one, with many of my tax dollars included, um.... wasted.

You continue to eliminate any doubt as to your party affiliation.

Call it the latest Barry stimulus plan: "Cash for Losers".

... God knows, the GOP has hit it out of the park every time (wait, ANY time?) with their amazingly insightful stimuli.

I'm an independent, fiscal conservative and a libertarian on social issues.

No, you are not. If you were libertarian, you'd be @!$%#ing outraged by the GOP, their perpetual degradation of our civil rights and the rights of the States, and the mother@!$%#ing fact they can be bought and paid for by anyone with the financial means.

It's outrageous -- OUTRAGEOUS -- that you CONTINUE to claim political independence, all the while reliably defaming Mr. Obama and passing over the GOP for their painfully obvious subterfuge of America.

If you have a problem with that, then I guess it sucks to be you.

LMAO@U!!!!!!!!

What the @!$%# is so funny? Wake. Up. This isn't a game.

Grumps! Merry Christmas and a bless'ed New Year to you, sir!

:D

Christ, you're a prick.

Regardless of your voter registration card, you give every appearance of the neo-conservatism that has been a pox on the American political landscape for the post 30 years. Have you ever voted for a Democrat?

__________________________________________

Right back at you, penis-breath.

(Now how 3rd grade level childish is that kind of name calling??? But, when attacked, I am justified in responding in kind. LOL!!!)

See the BTW in post #22.57:

BTW, I voted for "Slick Willy" Clinton in 1992 because I thought GHW Bush was a moron.

The best part here is that every time you post we all see really who you are.

_________________________________________

Sounds like you and Jack are in the same boat, you know, the one captained by Barry Obama and headed for the same type of financial deficit iceberg as the "unsinkable" RMS Titanic that sank on her maiden voyage on April 15, 1912. Gee , IRS tax day. As I said to him, "sucks to be you".

LOL!!!

YJSW, I want to be called names, too, so I don't feel so left out.

I am a fiscal conservative and a social liberal. I vote all over the ballot. Both sides of the fence are most mean to me because I haven't bought their party line. Someone out there in vineland, please abuse me cause I'm not just like you. I would abuse myself but I already wear glasses and I don't want to go blind.

joe,

Jack, get a life for yourself and stop worrying about me.

I wouldn't waste my time worrying about someone as nasty as you. In post #1.18 you went after Smitty in a particularly mean-spirited way--and you've only gotten nastier from there. As for political labels, I think the only thing you care about is yourself. With you it's: "I, Me, Mine. What's in it for me? Me! Me Me!"

(My imagination kicks in and I picture him rolling onto his back afterwards and reaching for a cigarette and lighting it and blowing contented smoke rings at the ceiling while at his side she stares blankly upwards thinking: Is that it!?)

Joe in Albany

Right back at you, penis-breath.

See, the difference is I am making a character judgement based on how you treat other. You are, in fact and undefensibly, being a jerk for the sake of being a jerk and calling names to call names.

In short, you are being a prick.

*shrug*

(Now how 3rd grade level childish is that kind of name calling??? But, when attacked, I am justified in responding in kind. LOL!!!)

Let's be honest: my trolling is far more refined than yours. I'm at least at a sophomore level.

See the BTW in post #22.57:

BTW, I voted for "Slick Willy" Clinton in 1992 because I thought GHW Bush was a moron.

1. There's no way for you to prove or disprove this claim, is there? (incoming, "I don't care what you believe")
2. Regardless of the basis in fact of your voting record, I'll concede that GHW is a moron. Since we're on the topic, though, who did you vote for in 1996?
3. Regardless of your one, sole voting for the [D] column, it's ridiculous to proclaim yourself an independent. Is akin to a bigot who claims he's not a racist because he has a buddy who is black; it's self-delusional and indicative of so many wonderfully telling things about your personality.
4. I have the distinct feeling you have no idea what a libertarian is.

TL;DR -- You're a bully for the sake of being a bully. You are not an Independent, let alone a Libertarian. I am smarter than you.

grump in NM

YJSW, I want to be called names, too, so I don't feel so left out.

I am a fiscal conservative and a social liberal. I vote all over the ballot. Both sides of the fence are most mean to me because I haven't bought their party line. Someone out there in vineland, please abuse me cause I'm not just like you. I would abuse myself but I already wear glasses and I don't want to go blind.

LOLOL!!!

What the @!$%# is so funny? Wake. Up. This isn't a game.

_______________________________

Stop believing in your foolish sense of self-leftuous superiority. All of this is a game. Darwin discovered the rules. It's called "evolution", something you would call me a moron for "not believing in because I'm (in your humble opinoin) a 'Republican' ". As proof, I offer the old Europe socialist experiment of the mid-late 1900's that is now collapsing under its own weight in the 21st century, which will be dominated by the countries that are hungry for progress, not progressives.

"Survival of the fittest." is what got the world here and it's unlikely that lefty liberals will be able to re-write that rule, no matter how many wonderful speeches Barry delivers.

Joe in Albany

Stop believing in your foolish sense of self-leftuous superiority.

It's not a political basis in which I'm superior to you, Joe. I'm better than you in many other, more base, aspects.

All of this is a game.

It's not. It really isn't. If you had any concern for the well-being of our Nation, you would realize it's very @!$%#ing serious.

Darwin discovered the rules. It's called "evolution", something you would call me a moron for "not believing in because I'm (in your humble opinoin) a 'Republican' ".

I can't fathom what you're trying to say, here. It truly is neigh-indecipherable. I think you're implying that our political mire is somehow related to an evolutionary process? Care to elaborate?

As proof, I offer the old Europe socialist experiment of the mid-late 1900's that is now collapsing under its own weight in the 21st century, which will be dominated by the countries that are hungry for progress, not progressives.

Are you talking about social democracies? Challenge: list all EU nations that are social democracies. We can then, nation-by-nation, discuss their (relative) level of prosperity.

Afterwards, we can talk about how generalized social policies (domestically) have improved the quality of life for our citizenship, as a whole.

"Survival of the fittest." is what got the world here and it's unlikely that lefty liberals will be able to re-write that rule, no matter how many wonderful speeches Barry delivers.

The previous challenge still stands. When are you -- as an independent -- going to hold the GOP accountable for their grievous lack of vision and leadership?

There is no "evolution" in man's inhumanity to man. Survival of the "fittest" applies to mutations which favor the mutated in a region which allows for better adaptation due simply to their mutation. Ruthlessness is not a mutation, nor an adaptation. It is a moral choice. We could all choose to be ruthless opportunists. Most of us have rejected ruthlessness because it conflicts with the Golden Rule and the Ten Commandments, and we prize our humanity and our souls.

joe in albany you really have proven that you have s#!t for brains and your ass breath is fouling the room.

Paul, ruthlessness is not always a moral choice. There are primitive societies where it is a necessity for survival. Unfortunately, too many folks behave that way even when they go to WallyWorld. It has become way too fashionable and commonplace. Just observe the battle between the democrats and the republicans. It is a ruthless saga if ever there was one. Both sides of the fence have become intolerant and party line and the hysteria of hatred abounds. What is most disturbing is that folks believe it is acceptable. It is not.

This is why I am writing in Grumps in the presidential election.

As I have said many times before: Vote early, vote often.

Isn't it shameful that our prez would pull the troops out of Iran just before the election? In his campaign he said he would end the war with Iraq. He didn't. He waited three years to do it. How many kids, and a lot of them were really just kids, got killed or badly f'ed in that three years? Iraq is no more ready now for our withdrawal than they were three years ago. I am disgusted.

The previous challenge still stands. When are you -- as an independent -- going to hold the GOP accountable for their grievous lack of vision and leadership?

______________________________________________________

I have already stated my position that BOTH major parties are full of morons. As ironic as I find it to be, it was a friend, and co-worker in the mid-90's, who was so far o the political left that he thanked me for sincerely calling him (he said "congratulating") an "athiestic pinko commie", when I questioned him about his rabid pursuit of the highest possible returns on the investments in his 401k. He said "We all have to swim in the water we are born to live in, I might as well be the best swimmer.

Right.

Joe In Albany, I did some research.

Darwin did not say 'survival of the fittest'. That was Herbert Spencer.

The term Survival of the Fittest was promoted by social evolutionists who twisted what Darwin said. It wasn't Darwinism.

They believed all the animal species were ordered on a theoretical ladder from least to most complex, that is, lowest to highest intelligence.

In that 19th century world, this group believed that human variation was also positioned along that ladder. Guess who they put on the top and who they put on the bottom? (Western Europeans were on the top.)

To your point: In the name of progress, the 19th century 'progressivists' justified and said it was OK for any group higher on the ladder to destroy a group lower on the ladder. They said it was part of the inevitable evolutionary process.

This led to forced sterilization in 20th century America.

The Republican agenda of denigrating everything outside their own wealthy group, is a continuation of that agenda:

Progressives TODAY are for equal rights and equal access. These are not the 'progressivists' of the 19th century.

Republicans today are very much in line with the thinking of 19th century progressivists.

As I have said many times before: Vote early, vote often.

Isn't it shameful that our prez would pull the troops out of Iran just before the election? In his campaign he said he would end the war with Iraq. He didn't. He waited three years to do it. How many kids, and a lot of them were really just kids, got killed or badly f'ed in that three years? Iraq is no more ready now for our withdrawal than they were three years ago. I am disgusted.

Obama, in may regards, has been a @!$%#ing awful president. However, the blame doesn't sit solely at his feet. As I have championed before ... Clear the Capital. Start completely fresh. Term limits for Congress. Outlaw incentive-based lobbying.

You following along, kid? Maybe reading comprehension isn't your strongest suit?

Hm? Buddy? Need a nap?

Joe, if you'e not going to bother to at least address my questions, then just don't bother.

---

Excellent post, Backhouse.

It's not a political basis in which I'm superior to you, Joe. I'm better than you in many other, more base, aspects.

___________________________________________

I have always believed that living well is the best revenge.

I'm living well.

You, have a nice day.

YJSW, You and I have been agreeing on this a long, long time. Term limits. Term limits and maybe more term limits. That's why I vote all over the ballot. We all say we don't like our Congress but, out of the other side of our mouths, we say that OUR Congressman can stay cause he is one of the good guys. Nope. All are in on the deal making, and incentive-based lobbying only gets worse with any given Congress member the longer they are there. The moment an individual states a desire to be a "leader" in the community, they become corrupt and beholding to someone for their existence as a "leader". If the voters can't understand that simple idea, then we all lose.

I need a nap. Hasta later.

Joe In Albany, I did some research.

________________________________

I'm very proud of you, because you actually finally wrote a post without a thinkprogress.org cut and paste.

Say whatever you think is self-leftuous, but, "survival of the fittest" has delivered the only sentient species we can prove exists in the universe today, December 27, 2011. Sure, it's flawed, that's what evolution is for.

Of course, there are some who believe that Barry, Nancy, and Harry come from another planet full of not-too-bright rejects.

Joe in Albany

I have always believed that living well is the best revenge.

I'm living well.

You, have a nice day.

I wonder how your definition of "living well" holds up to moral scrutiny or even muster in light of your -- ahem -- self-proclaimed libertarian allegiance.

**bing**

Is the shame of being a closeted NeoCon that drives your angst? I would certainly be understanding, if that was the case.

Regardless, I always have a nice day. I hope you can find some comfort in life.

Joe, from your usual GOP playbook = change subject, insult, denigrate.

Knowingly or unknowingly:

1. You interchanged the term 'progressive' (Dec 27,2011) with the term 'progressivist' (19th century).

2. Evolution is not 'for' anything. Evolutionary process does not operate with a goal in mind.

3. The social evolutionists of the 19th century thought evolution's endgoal was the perfect human being.

Back then the pinnacle was wealthy Londoners of the late 19th century, and your logic is in line with those guys.

That is not Darwinism.

Smitty - not really interested in if any FR libs switch parties including yourself. However, it would be appropriate if many FR libs would look down the road to see where we are heading.

Our economy is not on a sustainable path and taxing just the 2% won't make it so. Heck liquidating all their assets and putting them on unemplyment won't even cut it.

Time for Americans to realize that "the other guy" can't fix the economy.

american-2051576

Smitty - not really interested in if any FR libs switch parties including yourself. However, it would be appropriate if many FR libs would look down the road to see where we are heading.

Our economy is not on a sustainable path and taxing just the 2% won't make it so. Heck liquidating all their assets and putting them on unemplyment won't even cut it.

Time for Americans to realize that "the other guy" can't fix the economy

Tell that to the son-of-a-bitch, deficit spending, GOP party. The Democrats are not the only ones to blame.

I predict Romney wins Iowa and NH. South Carolina is the next question as is Florida.

But Gingrich is toast. No organizational skills and bad story when he was in positions of responsibility in the past. Nothing is proving this narrative wrong in what he's doing or saying...

american Please tell me how the republican/tea bag party is going to save the economy? Please tell me if one doesn't make over 100 thousand dollars, how is voting for the republican/tea bag party going to be in ones best interest? I asked this many times today and you republican/tea bag party people have never gave me a answer. Why? Don't have one?

Because the GOP hates fa66ots, ni66ers and mexicans.

That's the problem with society today, these immoral heathens are threatening the american way.

Regardless, I always have a nice day. I hope you can find some comfort in life.

______________________________________

I'm very proud of you. I am very comfortable every day of my life, especially when I am provided with proof, like you, that there are some miserable people out there that don't get it, and never will. Living well is the best revenge.

And, as I told Jack:

I'm an independent, fiscal conservative and a libertarian on social issues.

If you have a problem with that, then I guess it sucks to be you.

LMAO@U!!!!!

Poor Joe, still failing at trolling. You measure happiness by the misery of others? How very, very sad. Try harder, kid.

You are not a libertarian. I'm sorry for your self-delusion. Which candidate are you supporting to oppose "Barry"?

"Joe, from your usual GOP playbook = change subject, insult, denigrate"

Evolution is not 'for' anything. Evolutionary process does not operate with a goal in mind.

_____________________________________

Did thinkprogress.org tell you to say that part in quotes above??

If not, they should have.

Evolution is the scientific FACT that (would you tell me again the lefty liberal fairy tale about how conservatives don't believe in science, it's one of my favorite lefty liberal fairy tales, just like the 3+ million jobs Barry's nearly $1,000,000,000.000 Porkulus bill "saved") "survival of the fittest" results in the continued progress of the world and its human species. As opposed to the imaginary "progrressive" fairy tales of lefty liberal Dems, like you, which tell us nonsense like Shemp Mathews' Lean Leftward commercial, "that if everyone ( in particular,the evil "rich") paid their fair share of taxes, the world would be good and kind and we could all live in the garden of Eden, listening to endless wonderful speeches from Barry.

Careful, Joe -- that GOP in sheep's clothing is peeking through. One might question your proclamations of "independent" political affiliation.

Which candidate are you supporting to oppose "Barry"?

__________________________________

Mad magazine's Alfred E. Obama would be an appropriate choice.

http://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://steelturman.typepad.com/photos/uncategorized/2008/08/08/alfred_e_obama_mad_magazine_cover_a.png&imgrefurl=http://steelturman.typepad.com/thesteeldeal/humor/page/3/&h=400&w=310&sz=315&tbnid=cesnMduAVATYXM:&tbnh=90&tbnw=70&prev=/search%3Fq%3Dmad%2Balfred%26tbm%3Disch%26tbo%3Du&zoom=1&q=mad+alfred&docid=Tboj4TlSLXx7dM&sa=X&ei=40P6TqP0DuT30gGz2bCMAg&ved=0CDwQ9QEwBQ&dur=1219

Your facade is crackin' kid. Just posting inane images, now? Barry has you all in a huff, huh?

Who's your conservative hero that you're willing to publicly stand behind and support?

I have to admire you, YouJustSaidWhat, for sticking with this Cracker as long as you have.

When humans lived in caves on the edge of survival and another tribe attacked them, Joe's ancestors were the first to be pushed to the front of the line--they'd go out kicking and screaming and crying, "Not me! Not me! Anybody but me!" But the tribe had no use for them because all the Joe's thought of was their own good.

Unfortunately, a few of them sneaked out the back way when the fight began. . . .

I have to admire you, YouJustSaidWhat, for sticking with this Cracker as long as you have.

When humans lived in caves on the edge of survival and another tribe attacked them, Joe's ancestors were the first to be pushed to the front of the line--they'd go out kicking and screaming and crying, "Not me! Not me! Anybody but me!" But the tribe had no use for them because all the Joe's thought of was their own good.

Unfortunately, a few of them sneaked out the back way when the fight began. . . .

I have to admire you, YouJustSaidWhat, for sticking with this Cracker as long as you have.

When humans lived in caves on the edge of survival and another tribe attacked them, Joe's ancestors were the first to be pushed to the front of the line--they'd go out kicking and screaming and crying, "Not me! Not me! Anybody but me!" But the tribe had no use for them because all the Joe's thought of was their own good.

Unfortunately, a few of them sneaked out the back way when the fight began. . . .

Apologies for the multiple posts - I got stuck in some netherworld that wouldn't allow me to edit.

YJSW, Joe isn't going to answer that because if he chose someone and that person turns out to be a schmuck (we all see it now but Joe needs time), then he can't complain and blame everyone else for putting him in there. He can never be wrong!

WOW!

I guess all the trolls are out in force today, must have been having FR withdrawals! ;-O)

Joe,

You do recognize the fact of evolution - unlike others, for whom it is inconvenient.

However, you wrote "survival of the fittest" results in the continued progress of the world and its human species."

This demonstrates that you don't understand how evolution actually works. (Already explained)

Darwinian evolution has nothing to do with your concept of 'progress'.

Joe needs to give it up, that he is neither independent nor libertarian is obvious, in fact he acts like a troll no matter what his political beliefs are....

YouJustSaidWhat & Grump in NM,

It's good to see more libertarians posting on FR for a change, for a while I thought I was the only one!

Beverly, queen of fact-checking.

Hey jack o from portsmouth

Sorry I'm a little late here. Maybe you'll check back and read my response.

In answer to your inquiries....yes, born in Hawaii...and no, he doesn't have to show his grades. But if i was smarter than Einstein I would be happy to show my transcripts....even if they revealed I was a very pedestrian C+ to B- student whose drug use sometimes kept me from attending class. That and my bi-curiosity.

Now....there is a question I wanted to ask you.....

How much does a Vietnamese sex slave/housekeeper/wife with built in servants/yard boys cost nowadays?

matt:

They are not trying to get all of America to vote Republican. You only need 50.1%. 45% of the country is going to vote D and 45% is voting R as we speak and nothing is going to change that. Basically everyone is vying for maybe and extra 6%.

Sad side note about Americans of voting age. More will vote for people on American Idol than for our officals who represent (supposedly) us, including president.

ITM,

Actually since it comes down to delegates the next President, in a two person race, could win with
less than 30% of the popular vote. 13 States have enough delegates to elect a President.

The electoral college is the issue. but if there are only two candidates it seems real world mathematically impossible that Obama would get 100% of the popular vote in 13 states and zero% in the other 37.

He would only need 50.1% of the popular vote in those 13 states since they are winner take all.

No kidding. And what percentage of the total voter population for the entire country would that put him at, from just those 13 states?

How badly would he have to do in the remaining 37 to have only 30% of the popular vote total, if he wins because of the other 13?

Paul,

You are correct about the unlikelihood of this ever happening.

I am just speaking to the mathematic possibilities which, to be more accurate, a President could be elected with less than 26% of the popular vote while gaining the 270 electoral votes needed.

Paul, I think the point you are missing is that delegates don't have to vote the way their state does. They can decide to go another way. They are encouraged to cast their votes along the lines of the people, but not required to do so.

Because of this you could technically have a president with 0% of the popular vote win. You just need to convince enough delegates to break their pact with the voters and vote for someone they didn't want.

We're both correct.

You seem to be up on the numbers, why not answer my questions.

If Obama wins California 65% to 33%, and New York 63% to 34%, and every other race with any significant population numbers breaks down to a 6% variance, is there any way Obama doesn't end up winning with at least 45% of the popular vote?

To end up a winner with only 26% or 30%, after taking California and New York, which shouldn't be close, he'd half to be getting under 15% other places. No?

Paul,

Everything you propose, your assumption looks accurate.

I wasn’t trying to avoid your questions. I was just trying to make a different point.

The point I was making by using pure math is that the Electoral College system can easily override the majority of the voters.

Thanks. I don't think it is helpful to the democratic process to posit that a sitting President might achieve a re-election's second term, while as many as 74% of the voting population could have voted against him. While mathematically possible, it would no doubt bring an end to the electoral college, which would also be the case if IOWA-Guy 's rare occurance, ever became a common practice amongst electors.

Dennis, Columbus, Ohio

You speak the truth!

The point I was making by using pure math is that the Electoral College system can easily override the majority of the voters.

There is a movement now in America to make this an actual REAL possibility

The one man one vote interstate compact thing that is about 2/3rds of the way to actually making this happen.

I remember now, the National Popular Vote Compact. It was passed into law here in Washington on the QT, never made the papers non of the government reporting agencies even gave it a line. I can't wait until the voters of this state realize that their electoral votes for the democrat could and will be given to a republican...

They are not going to like it...

Newt Blingrich has just said that finishing third in Iowa would be OK. Hell it would be flattering, but at least third rhymes with turd, and may even be synonymous depending upon where you were born.

Jody,

What's the weather starting to look like for the caucus?

phinephancy, the weather sounds good so far. We had the warmest Christmas Eve and Day in 17 years. There is rain mentioned for New Year's Eve morning but no signs of snow or bitter cold so far. In 2008, we had a big snow the day before; it was brutally cold and windy but it had no impact on the caucus, especially the democratic one!

Want me to get the granddaughters to do a blizzard dance for you?

Jody,

Had a robo call from newtie last week - so strange, when I asked his representative who handled the call after newt's robo message where he got my name and number, he just stammered around and said I must have filled out a conservative questionnaire or something - of course I had to laugh and say: Probably not so much young fella! I also asked him to give ole newtie a message from me: he is a lier, an adulterer, and a snake and around where I live that dog just won't hunt.

Jody, have you seen the sample ballot? Does it have a box on it for ABO or Anyone But Obama? it wouldn't surprise me if it did. with the current batch of idiots the GOP has running, the Republican voters have got to be confused. They know they don't want Obama, but, who should they choose? Which LOSER would you vote for?

LMAO :)

fuzzy---since it is the Republican caucus, it has a box ABR---anyone but Romney.

Union Baby, you're lucky you got a real person to ask; just another GOP tactic. Prior to the 2007 presidential campaigns, I was not bothered by strictly republican caucus polls or much of anything except invites to local campaign stops for the GOPers. The polls had questions which allowed me to tell them I was not a republican and would not vote for any of their choices. In 2007 Mitt Romney's campaign had me listed me as a registered republican; he even sent a Christmas card. Despite my efforts to be removed from that list, it has only gotten worse. Now, the robo calls do not give the option of getting off the call list or of even saying I won't vote for any of the GOP candidates. If I hang up, they just keep calling back to ask the same questions.

Sorry, Fuzzy, the "anyone but Obama" line is nothing but baloney being pushed by the GOP not democrats. It's just another GOP talking point and dirty trick, among their many dirty tricks. No, there is no line like that on any Iowa ballot--it's merely a GOP dream. FYI, in caucuses, there are no official "ballots".

well shucks, That would have made a terrific collectable. I would have had one framed. just to remember the desparation of the GOP in these terrible times when they can only offer up used and worthless choices for the highest office in the country.

Jody I will actually like to see you and your brainless lemming friends go jump of the cliff......you are all spewing so many lies on so many levels that those of us with no party affiliations are getting worried, stop the lies and do like the lemmings go over the cliff....you will find Xanadu!!!!

Yah know . . . Tiger Woods discovered that shankin' skank didn't do his professional or his family life any good at all, and now Newt-the-Beaut is discovering what ANYBODY could have told him for free . . . shankin' skank doan do yer political ambitions any goddamn good at all either. Oh, wait a mo', you say; they were jes slobberin' his johnston . . . as if THAT makes it all AOK.

Newt can have any woman he pleases. He just can't please 'em long!! Callista, take notes!!!

Not to mention Newt's false claim (among many) that the $1.6 million paid to him by Fannie & Freddie were for his services as an "historian".

Da Noid and Jody,

Newton lives in Virginia and still could not make the filing deadline in his own state.

And he claims he is the expert of "everything", but not the fine print of election laws.

He is just a peddler of books and selling his "name" to any group who will pay his consultant fees.

Wasn't it Callista that was a big behind the scene pusher of Newt to run to begin with? Seems she may have some delusions of grandeur!

Da Noid---I remember in 2008 everyone said candidate Obama didn't have the executive experience to be President and folks like us pointed out the flawless campaign that he ran. Turns out we were right--and Newt is showing us the reverse. Not organized enough to get his name on the ballot for the primary in his home state.

I think it is probably not at all unusual for the wife to ask for a divorce if she finds out her husband is engaged to another woman! Aw Newt - you are so conservative if you are married and engaged at the same time! NOT.

Da Noid

Poor Newton...it's all beginning to crumble around him.

...missing the ballot in Virginia.

...going negative on Willard.

...and he wants us to believe that it was his first wife who wanted the divorce and not him? Watch where you're pointing that nose, Pinocchio!

Da Noid

I sincerely believe Pinochio never intended to run for President. he threw his hat in the ring to sell book and pick up honorariums peddling fake history. When Cain faulted it blew Newt away.

Why would he be signing books at the doh faced wife of his, Callista, instead of being in Iowa? Why didn't he put forth a better effort in Virgina despite not having money?

This is one time there is a method to beady eyed Newt's madness!

Ugh, the thought of that floozy and ill reputed woman, Callista, being a First Lady creeps me out.

Hey guys, don't pick on Newt. He clearly has strong family values. He has married each of his mistresses so far (that we know of). How much more of a family man can he be?

Auntie Fascist (#105.1)

Newt can't please 'em for short [and limp] either.

Of course, he's hoping they'll lick him into shape for free.

Only in the USA do we have one party determined to make voting harder instead of easier. The GOP talks about patriotism, makes comments about illegal voting practices in other countries but here, if they don't think they can win fair and square, suppress the vote. Shame on the GOP and shame on anyone who supports their attacks on voters' rights and on the GOP's blatant disregard for the Constitution.

I did a search on articles about voter suppression. It is all in GOP states (including both yours and mine). It really can turn your stomach at the way the GOP is trying to play this out.

Demographics are inexorably working against the GOP, and for short-term gain they're actually playing against this demographic shift. So they don't have a lot of choice but to try to supress traditionally Democratic demographics.

Instead of whining about this so-called suppression; why don't you go out and assist some of those suppressed with obtaining an ID card. The law is not going to change because you don't like it. You liberals protest and (MAUCH)"Al Sharpton" about every and anything; why don't you march on to the DMV and obtain ID's. I have shown my ID at every election since I started voting and never gave it a thought.

@John

The interesting thing about the voter suppression laws the GOP are trying to enact, while they work against the African-American community, it does not do much against the Latino community - which is growing the fastest. Add that to the fact that they A: get out there and vote and B: The rhetoric coming from the GOP against this group will further hurt the GOP.

The GOP will either learn it cannot be the party of old white men, or they will become a non-factor in the future.

ITM,

The voter suppression is not as much about showing ID as it is about what types of proof is no longer acceptable and about changing access to vote like changing rules for absentee voting or reducing early voting periods.

Also requiring anyone to obtain an ID that was not required previously must be provided at no cost or it is a poll tax which is a violation of federal law.

@Dennis,

The idea from the daily Kos was that everyone have a government id (provided by the government, like your social securtiy card). Then, no more voter registration with the problems of voter suppression.

If you want citizens to have to possess a photo ID to vote, something that wasn't required until the GOP started seeing their hold slipping away, then the government that requires it should have to set up a separate agency, especially from the DMV, to accomplish the task. A voter registration card should be enough. Work on making that system work better, stop mixing up data bases and the purposes of different agencies. Time is money. If the photo ID is to be "free", as it should be, then the time invested in obtaining it should amount to almost nothing. That ain't going to be the case at any DMV. Don't inconvenience our rights for your attempts at "efficiency".

Paul,

The problem now has become the GOP. That's why the suggestion of the National ID was thrown out there. I think, if done properly, it could be used not only as a form of id, used to vote, but maybe as a passport - thus ending the state department's expense of issuing passports. Have just one agency handle this "all in one" card. Just an idea - I know it needs a lot of work, but, worth thinking about.

Paul, having worked many elections, a photo ID is essential. Voter registration cannot prove that the person standing in front of you is one and the same.

In my opinion, the absentee ballot is the most vulnerable to voter fraud.

The main problem with the new voter ID laws - most don't actually give the voter enough time to obtain these ID's, folks over 60 have not been required to have their photo on their driver's license for a long time, many young voters 18 or 19 years old don't have a driver's license yet (my daughters did not have a permit until they were 17 - yippiee for my auto insurance savings). When you refuse to let either population vote then you disenfranchise them for many election cycles and to me that is a huge problem. Want the voter id law - fine, pass it and make it go into effect 4 years later so everyone has time to obtain the proper id. I do like the idea about replacing the passports with the voter cards, but will children still get some type of passport ID without the voter seal if we do that?

Union Baby,

I grant there are some "kinks" to work out. Maybe, a card issued at birth (like a social security card) then, at 18, you would get another that shows you can now vote. And the card, even at birth, could be used as a passport? Just some ideas.

The problem for the new voter ID laws is the discrimination of one form of acceptable ID over another. In Texas?, people can use a gun registration card as valid proof but not a student ID card; that's ridiculous. One of the other problems is that the "fee" to obtain a copy of a birth certificate, marriage license or some other required document is a form of a poll tax. If any states implement a Voter ID law, then they must provide all citizens with the documents needed at no charge and they must make obtaining such as ID card easy by having locations where such ID can be obtained easily accessible to all voters.

I know it needs a lot of work, but, worth thinking about.

No it's not. It's a horrible idea. You are not thinking of the implications nor are you thinking about what Republican fascists would do with it once implemented. We are much better off taking control of, and fixing, what we have now.

Jody

The new laws are a poll tax and Jim Crow, all rolled into one!

I keep hearing about the voter suppression BS by the left wingers over showing a pictured ID Card. All this crap that it keeps the minority voters away is not true and has never been been proven. It is only an item that comes up from, mostly, the African-American community. What do these people use to cash their paychecks, unemployment checks, retirement checks, welfare checks, etc.,? It's my understanding that states that require a photo ID will issue one for free if the person can not afford one. Also what's wrong with purging voter rolls, it use to be, in my state, that if you missed a general election your name was purged and you had to re-register before the next election. I also remember when you had to justify a reason for an absentee ballot. I also remember when you could get a few hours off from work to go vote, people started abusing that so most places quit giving time off and polls were opened longer. There is no reason for any state to have voting for more than one day, and same day registration is nonsense.

Voting should be something that is one of the most important rights a person can do as a citizen. I spend 20 yrs in the military and still voted absentee in every election since I turned 21.

It's time to do away with the Voters Rights Laws that was passed in 1965. It is another of those laws that has out lived their usefulness and is mostly used for political reasons by one side or the other. There are only 9 states that require DOJ approval, the other 41 states can pretty much do what they want.

sfcret: what has not been PROVEN is any widespread voter fraud. In fact South Carolina for one never even tried. But the lawyers arguing for new voter registration laws did better than you did--and essentailly tried to stay away from your argument that essentially, the wrong PEOPLE are voting. Most of your ilk are a little more sophisticated than to to try and tie these efforts to the end of the voting rights act, which is not going to happen--precisely because of efforts like these to keep racism alive. Telling some 90 year old black woman to update her birth certificate (see Washington Post today) is hardly going to convince anyone about your real motives--which aren't too hard to figure out after all. Sorry--looks like you'll have to lose the election the old fashioned way...

Hi Sarge,

Hope you had a good Christmas.

I made my point above. I have no problem with providing a picture ID at the voting booth.

But shouldn’t we be doing everything possible to make it easier to vote, not harder?

Many of the expansions like no excuse to be able to file absentee were done to save the State money and cut down the long lines at the polls. With the expansion of availability to vote the percentage of Registered Voters casting votes has gone up – is that a good or bad thing?

Isn’t that what you and I fought for - the freedom to express ourselves which is most evident in elections?

The thing that drives me craziest about the voter ID issue is that there are so many people (many of whom are usually more aware of the world) who, with a perfectly straight face, wonder "why wouldn't someone have an ID? Everyone has an ID." I also hear people say that they get asked for their ID all the time. I cannot remember the last time I was asked for an ID. I pay for almost everything with my debit card, don't go to liquor stores or bars, and haven't been stopped for speeding but twice in my 67 years. I did show my driver's license to vote in 2010, but only because I couldn't find my voter registration card.

In my state of South Carolina, the Justice Dept. is suing the state for passing a voter ID law. Our nitwit governor can't understand why the law is a big deal. Nevermind that the machinery doesn't exist for producing the nearly 200,000 ID cards that would be needed to cover all the registered voters in SC who don't have an acceptable form of ID. Nevermind that she blithely said, "I'll take them to the DMV myself." As others on this thread have noted, getting a photo ID when you don't have one is an expensive (paying fees for copies of birth certificates, etc.), time consuming process even if we did have the machinery and the personnel to do it.

MKM, I agree. That's part of the problem, that people can't understand that others don't have the same opportunities, funds, intelligence, transportation, etc as themselves. I struggle as much as the next person, but I know there are many who struggle much more. And not everyone has resources available.

That being said, I vote every two years and I can't recall the last time I had to show anything (actually, I think when we moved I had to show ID at the new polling place. They are supposed to check the signature but mine is very different than it was when I first signed it. I don't know how they prevent fraud to be honest. However, they need to come up with something that doesn't make it too difficult or expensive for those who aren't as fortunate. They need the representation more than most of us.

All I'm going to say about this issue is that there was a time where you did have to produce legal valid ID to vote. That being said, individual voter fraud is rare. Nationwide voters needing ID shouldn't be a problem for probably 99% of the voters out there and the exceptions could easily be handled as exceptions so no one is "Disenfranchised"

The proven voter fraud out there is systemic and centers around the absentee ballots. If you listen to the whistleblowers it happens in all 50 states both republican and democrat, I distinctly remember a very screwed up election in 2004 in the state of washington where it was actually proven in court that over 1500 dead people voted and primarily voted democrat. This is a proven fact guys you can look it up!

So all of you that are taking the moral high road need to come down off their high horses. Why, Cause your party (either one) is GUILTY in every state, both sides do it and have been caught doing it.

Here in Washington all we have is mail in ballots, I hardly ever bother with it anymore, it was insisted by the democrats, in a democrat state, and what has been proven in this state really sucks as far as freedom and honesty in elections.

You guys are damned lucky you still get to go to a polling place. Having to show an id is a miniscule inconvenience.

Egilman, I can't believe they only have mail in voting in Washington. If that really is the case, seems to me that needs to change, no matter which side put that rule in place. You are right that there is fraud on both sides, and it's useless for us to argue over who commits it more often or more egregiously. I just know it needs to be fair and accessible for all, especially the disadvantaged. But it also can't be a free-for-all.

If it's that much of a bother, that is even more of a reason for you to vote, so it can be changed back. Either side would like to take away the other side's right. Don't give up. Fighting is our only chance of having a part in the process.

LA99999,

The proof is right here.... (just cut and paste into you web browser)

wei.secstate.wa.gov/osos/en/voterinformation/Pages/VotebyMailFAQ.aspx

Absolutely sucks......

I usually vote the presidential primaries and elections and the major races in the state but the rest are not really worth it.

Ideology,

Ethics and the GOP do not mix.

Hope you had a wonderful holiday.

phine,

that has not stopped them since Nixon and now with FOX they just shove it in a blender with red, white and blue dye.

holiday was great, hope yours was also.

Murdoch trying to rule the world?

Or he's just cornering the vast market for hate.

Well, one must admit, when comes to cornering that market, he does it very well.

ideologyspoilstheview

It's not an ethical problem, asking him to give up votes because of what they support is akin to asking Obama to give up the black panther votes because some of them espouse "Killin Crakkkez"

I know neither of you (Hi phine) would wish the president to give up any vote for him, why would you claim that Dr Paul is being unethical for taking the same position that the President does?

Northstar, I'll survive the week. I don't want a blizzard because I'll be going to the democratic caucus even though it's just a formality, it's important that a quorum attend. Not a flake of snow mentioned by the weather folks. Weird weather here, too. Haven't had to use the snow shovel, let alone the snow blower once! Wouldn't bother me if it stayed this way all winter but I know you're right, we're bound to get whalloped one of these days.

No snow in Mn and Iowa at Christmas. And yet, the GOP keeps telling us there is no such thing as climate change. I think some folks may have their heads up their....... well, you know.

Jody, Yes it is important to attend the Dem caucus night. Any interesting state races in Iowa?

Here in MN , redistricting will be done by the courts sometime in Feb, March. Bachmann's district will have to give up 100,000 voters. New lines will be drawn. Every legislator will be up for election Hope to regain the State Senate for the Dems. Our state GOP is deeply in debt and have a little scandal going with the resigned leader of the senate.

@Northstar

Will the redistricting bring the Dems back to power?

Appreciate the MN update, Northstar. It would be great if the dems can regain some power there. I'd really like to see Bachmann lose. Also would like to see Paul Ryan in WI go down.

No, not a single interesting state race going on in Iowa this early but there will be state legislator fights this spring, summer and fall. The battle early as the State Congress convenes will be the State GOP House and Democratic Senate going toe to toe on the social issues again. The GOP (The Family Leader's Bob Vandar Platts) is still trying to get an amendment to the State Constitution on the ballot regarding outlawing gay marriage, they will also again try the voter ID law as written by ALEC.

To see Paul Ryan, the superstar of the GOP go down!!! It would be Christmas all over again! (And if we could also get rid of Mark Rubio......)

No blizzards Jan. 3! Gads, please! No blizzards! We'd then run the risk of those @!$%#ers being stranded here.

I'm not anticipating Vander Platts getting much done, Jody, now that it's come to light that his endorsements go to the highest bidder.

Hope you had a Merry Christmas, Nash and all the best to you & yours for 2012!

YES WE CAN and YES WE WILL!!

Had a great Christmas Steeler Fan . . . I hope you did as well! :o)

Thanks, Nash---we did have a great holiday, kicked off by a Steelers win on Christmas Eve! Santa was very good to me!

I just wonder, if the President is as terrible as the right makes him sound, why do they have to make up the lies. Wouldn't the truth be enough? It's a shame that people choose to believe their anonymous e-mails and Fox news without going to the trouble of looking it up, because they prefer to believe it.

I have an acquaintance who sends e-mails that are outright lies (she just passes them on without verifying them). I have on several occasions sent something back showing they are lies (sending a link from Snopes.com), yet she continues to send them out and I never receive anything from her saying that the info was untrue. It's no different than spreading rumors about a neighbor. A lie is a lie, no matter who it is about.

And we all are so grateful to the GOP for this economic disaster we are in. And their great ideas for getting us out of it (the same ones that got us in it to being with).

Goodness gracious...dream on. Stop the mental masturbation and realize your man is a gelding in an empty suit. Misery loves company, I guess.

3 years and Reality has still not Checked in.

Reality, ever occur to you that those numbers are not a reflection on President Obama but rather a reflection on the GOPers in Congress--the ones who have blocked every attempt by our President to create jobs; a reflection on the state GOPers who have over-reached and tried to take away the rights of citizens? I doubt that enters the mind of republicans or for that matter, the beltway media's thought process but 'tis true.

Ah, misery. The GOP are masters at causing it. And it takes the Dems to clean up the mess.

Let's talk about the 2 unfunded wars. Don't you think THAT may have a little bit to do with our current financial mess? Consumer confidence? I'm not quite sure what the president has to do with it, but, it's been on a steady decline for a long time. Who's policies have put the unemployment and poverty numbers so high? You know the answer. Your Good ol' boys in the GOP.

All because of the Republican Party.You did it, you own it.Main stream America isn't as dumb as you would like them to be they see right through you

Reality: how about some reality from the rest of us who weren't in a coma when your beloved King George left America near the brink of disaster: Fun Thoughts from King George:

22 months of recession in 96 months in office

3 million jobs created compared to 23 million for Clinton

After tax income for top 1%: up 14%,

Debt under Bush: up $962 Billion (Clinton surplus when Bush began office: $128Billion)

Cost of Afghanistan and Iraq wars over Bush's two terms: $800 Billion

You have to extend the cost of the wars into the future as well. Between interest on the debt for $800Billion and the continuing veterans' benefits costs for the next 50 years. Iraq and Afghanistan, both wars of choice, will cost us $3TTTrillion. That's $3,000Billion. Who's putting money aside for those expenses, which benefitted the 1% almost exclusively?

Your numbers are way off. You are too kind to the GOP and the idiots who orchestrated this mess.

Short term gains for the few vs. long time hardships for the many. The GOP made their decision and sided with the money!!!

Lets take a look at some of your irrelavent statistics:

- consumer confidence low.... wonder why???? last 3 months of GB office over 3 million jobs were lost and market devalued at 40%. this is not something Obama created and notsomething that will be fixed overnight.

-Credit rating reduced: geee go figure. the banks went rampant from 2000-2008 writing worthless mortgages. their solution.....try to bundle them and sell off as many as possible to foreign investors before anyone figure it out. No wonder we have to take a knick in our credit rating.

- unemployment over 8%..... this wasn't the case until GB was about to leave office. I wonder how many jobs were created in India and Chine during 2000-2008?

- spending..... Ha!!! since when have you ever seen a Pube that is hesitant to spend money? the only time they complain about spending is after the money is already been spent.

- misery index @ 28%? your saying it was worse under Ronald Reagan, the "great communicator"? what a joke!!

-poverty rate high?? and what exactly has the GOP been trying to do about this? ship more good paying jpobs to china?

- Food stamps up? damn right, food is expensive, business is corrupt and they realize people have to east. solution make more money off food.

- 57 states? here are a few bush gaffffes to refresh your memory:

Families is where our nation finds hope, where wings take dream.

I admit it, I am not one of the great linguists.

For every fatal shooting, there were roughly three non-fatal shootings. And, folks, this is unacceptable in America. It's just unacceptable. And we're going to do something about it.

I am a person who recognizes the fallacy of humans.

I have opinions of my own, strong opinions, but I don't always agree with them.

I know the human being and fish can coexist peacefully.

I know how hard it is to put food on your family.

I know what I believe. I will continue to articulate what I believe and what I believe - I believe what I believe is right.

I promise you I will listen to what has been said here, even though I wasn't here.

I recently met with the finance minister of the Palestinian Authority, was very impressed by his grasp of finances.

I think anybody who doesn't think I'm smart enough to handle the job is underestimating.

I think war is a dangerous place.

I understand small business growth. I was one.

I wish I wasn't the war president. Who in the heck wants to be a war president? I don't.

I'm not a very good novelist. But it'd make a pretty interesting novel.

If the terriers and bariffs are torn down, this economy will grow.

If this were a dictatorship, it would be a heck of a lot easier - so long as I'm the dictator.

I'm also not very analytical. You know I don't spend a lot of time thinking about myself, about why I do things.

I'm the master of low expectations.

I'm the commander - see, I don't need to explain - I do not need to explain why I say things. That's the interesting thing about being President.

It would be a mistake for the United States Senate to allow any kind of human cloning to come out of that chamber.

Rarely is the question asked: Is our children learning?

Our enemies are innovative and resourceful, and so are we. They never stop thinking about new ways to harm our country and our people and neither do we.

The problem with the French is that they don't have a word for entrepreneur.

There's an old saying in Tennessee, I know it's in Texas, probably Tennessee, that says 'Fool me once [pause], shame on…shame on you. [Long pause] Fool me. [Pause] You can't get fooled again.'

They have miscalculated me as a leader.

They misunderestimated me.

This foreign policy stuff is a little frustrating.

We cannot let terrorists and rogue nations hold this nation hostile or hold our allies hostile.

We need an energy bill that encourages consumption.

We ought to make the pie higher.

We're concerned about AIDS inside our White House - make no mistake about it.

Will the highways on the Internet become more few?

Do you have blacks, too? (To Brazilian President Fernando Cardoso)

When I was young and irresponsible, I was young and irresponsible.

You're free. And freedom is beautiful. And, you know, it'll take time to restore chaos and order - order out of chaos. But we will.

This is still a dangerous world. It's a world of madmen and uncertainty and potential mential losses.

I think there is a Trojan horse lurking in the weeds trying to pull a fast one on the American people.

This is a world that is much more uncertain than the past. In the past we were certain, we were certain it was us versus the Russians in the past. We were certain, and therefore we had huge nuclear arsenals aimed at each other to keep the peace. That's what we were certain of…You see, even though it's an uncertain world, we're certain of some things.

It is clear our nation is reliant upon big foreign oil. More and more of our imports come from overseas.

I think we agree, the past is over.

And there's no doubt in my mind, not one doubt in my mind, that we will fail.

The important question is, how many hands have I shaked.

General…I can't name the general.(When asked to name President of Pakistan)

We spent a lot of time talking about Africa, as we should. Africa is a nation that suffers from incredible disease.

The war on terror involves Saddam Hussein because of the nature of Saddam Hussein, the history of Saddam Hussein, and his willingness to terrorize himself.

When I was a kid I remember that they used to put out there in the Old West a wanted poster. It said, Wanted: Dead or Alive.

My answer is to bring them on. (On Iraqi militants attacking US forces)

Major combat operations in Iraq have ended. In the battle of Iraq, the United States and our allies have prevailed. -- May 1, 2003

Like picnic ants on a cookie...you should ALL thank the guy for setting up your platform for (self)righteous rants...

10 on one?...did I see a penalty flag somewhere in that pile-up?

Hahahahaha, JIMD, I laughed through your whole post. Who needed SNL when we had GWB.

I was waiting for Rick Santorum to get his chance to be the flavor of the week----sounds like it might be too late for him.

What will happen if Santorum does well in Iowa - not a win, but maybe 2nd or 3rd?

phine---I've always thought he was positioning himself to be the Vice Presidential candidate---if Romney prevails he would throw a bone to the conservative base by putting Santorum on the ticket. Santorum doesn't seem to have any scandal, although he's said some odd things. He could play the attack dog role well.

Steeler Fan,

Oooo, good point. I also wonder if Huntsman is trying for the same spot. Although, I don't see Huntsman as the attack dog type.

phine---I have the impression that Huntsman and Romney don't get along. Plus, I'm not sure the Republicans are ready for one Mormon on their ticket, let alone two.

I'm guessing Santorum won't be anywhere near the Republican ticket as VP either...Even Romney isn't crazy enough to nominate a VP who is best known for his campaign to outlaw homosexuality and who provides almost no value votes from his home state (Pennsylvania???) --Romney could do that by picking a Southern right winger to help counteract both his and his party's dismal reputation with women....(Gov. Nicky Haley?)

Jody,

Since Florida moved up its primary date, I think it will be an interesting state to watch. The voting blocks are all over the place - from the tea party in the north, snowbirds in the south - with a large Latino community. And the I-4 corridor, which can go from moderate to far right. It would truly be a place to "weed" out the field.

Register Canadian snowbirds! They pay taxes.

Ideology,

Unfortunately we have to ban Canadian snowbirds from voting - even if they do pay taxes. The problem is they drive in the fast lane, going slow, at rush hour - reading a map!

Real Canadian men don't read maps.

Phine, don't forget the villages. One of the highest populations of retiree's in the country. They seem to lean towards the Tea Party, but, mess with their social security and watch the sparks turn into a raging blaze. It could get interesting depending on which candidates are still alive by then.

Oh, I hope you had a great Christmas!

Thanks fuzzy. I did forget about the villages. Once the info gets out on social security and medicare (with the help of AARP) I think we may find these seniors none to happy with the GOP.

Ideology,

I did see one man yelling at his "Garmin" telling him not to tell him how to drive or where to turn!

Jody--I agree with you. I think part of our long election process (in both parties) is having more opportunities to move each candidate off of his or her set talking points and get them to show their true colors so we can have a better idea of who we would be electing. It takes time and frequent appearances to make that happen.

I think you give Gingrich far too much credit for carrying out this scheme...He simply wasn't organized--didn't think he's win and never thought he'd get this far. Even he didn't know the field around him would be this weak.

Good one Charles. I really do miss Herman's unknowing, uneducated a$$! We need more coverage of Bachmann and Perry too. It's just not as much fun watching and listening to the professional liars like Newt and Mitt

gravis-

So insightful!

That crew you highlighted are so blantantly unqualified to hold the highest office in the land.

What is troublesome is that there are enough uninformed voters out there who voted these dim wits to elective office in the first place.

Pathetic!

Thanks Shelia for the compliment, although to anyone with an IQ over 50 it's painfully obvious these clowns are not qualified leaders by any stretch of the imagination. Unfortunately, the 2010 elections proved there are a lot of gullible fools out there, unfortunately of voting age.

Why don't we just review how we all got here, and simply recalibrate the economic system accordingly? We don't have to embrace inhumanity to solve our Man made economic and geoplolitical "problems". Inhumanity just begets more inhumanity.

?? Ok, give mom back the computer now and get to school...your immaturity is showing.

My friend you are sadly mistaken. It matters a great deal. The President may not be able to solve all your problems, but the wrong person can be an ENORMOUS detriment. If you need proof, take a few minutes and think about GW Bush, Cheney, Wolfowitz, Rumsfeld, and the Iraq war. And then tell me it doesn't matter who becomes President.

And that's why we will continue to OCCUPY, cliff. Your defeatist attitude is more than half the problem.

Quitter!

unAmerican quitter. We don't do dictators here.

Cliff I agree......I will add that the rich have created this us vs them environment to keep the focus off the real problem.

The REAL problem is lobbyist in Washington. Remove them then Government might actually so something for the people. MIGHT is still a big word though ;)

Ignorance is bliss. We have people convince for voting for one party even though that party never helps them at all. Anyone under $100K voting republican simply is a dumb voter in my books because there is nothing real they get from that vote at all, NOTHING!!!

Once again, never forget that Republicans don't believe in facts.

Besides, the GOP hates ni66ers, fa66ots and mexicans.

Romney needs to solve the problem of Romney first. He needs to decide which one of his many personalities is going to end up running. Let's see if he can do that before declaring that he has skills.

Unfortunatly, Romney also has a lot of problem causing skills as well.

If it's a UTOPIA, does it matter if it is socialist? That's like someone complaining that it's too bright in heaven to sleep.

Jarhead,,, What do you have against Jews?

Did you know that Huntsman wants us to be more like China?

Pay attention amigo,,, Obama wants you to have more of your wages, conservatives don't.. Have you forgotten the latest bs the Tea Party tried pulling with the payroll deductions?

What's wrong with the Jews?

.2% of the world population = 25% of worlds problems.

JesusismyDog,,,,, Jesus was a Jew

Jesus: you are lost and on the wrong board. The neo-nazi losers who justify their anti-semitism because they can't get up in the morning without a focus for their hate are easy enough to find. Run along now.

The Ron Paul People..... This is the kind of hole Paul is in due to his own white supremest news letters.... Paul attracts maggots

Jesus is a Jew?My point exactly. more people have been murdered in the name of Jesus than any other

"Flat Tax" is both a "Tax Hike" on some people & businesses & a "New Tax" on some states --- Forget about it

Yeah, flat tax always sounds good until someone realizes "special interest" sometimes means their special interest.

All their ideas are either a tax hike or a new tax... Conservatives get their blood boiling with these false pledges and false patriotism waving the flag & just don't think

That is the reason our nation is in the mess it is in --- People just don't think

See.... no tea baggers getting on this band waggon.

Honestly, it's not the wealthy's fault. You have to go after special interest groups & lobbying

The wealthy have no problem at all in paying the majority of the burdens, they've said so.. They see it as their duty to others & to our nation, whom without likely wouldn't have the wealth they do

Jim....

Actions speak loader than words. Show me the money!!!

The wealthy are not as generous as you kmight want to believe. Uncle Sam has no problem accepting more tax revenue from you than you are required to pay.

I'd be interested in seeing what percentage of the wealthy voluntarily offer to pay extra taxes. I wouldn't hold your breath waiting on a handout from this crowd.

MC...... We can always elect another Bush!!!

You have zero numbers to back up your opinion. Some serious opinion is required not anger dumb redneck opinion.

Damage? Mcpaddywack, go back to your bowl of fruit loops

This President can win just on his record over the last 3 years hands down --- It's a "Slam Dunk" when you look at his competition

Hey Dog I wish I could go back to the Bush days my life was a lot happier then. Now things are so high

can't enjoy anything. Oh if things are looking up why is Sears and Kmart closing so many stores?

That's what they want us to believe. Don't be so dumb and fall for the Obama spin.

No it wouldn't 8 Years of BUSH/CHENEY are the Undisputed Champs !

lol, Bush was the worst 8 years anyone could want. Its scary to even think someone could post that. BUSH gave you the economy today. Bush gave you 2/3 of this debt and gave the government zero room to do anything.

To post that you want Bush just plain stupid talk....but the average American is stupid so its not really your fault your education system failed you.

Sears and Kmart are closing down because they, as a company, refuse to "Invest" money into their stores to modernize them and relocate them into areas where the people are at. Look at a typical Sears or Kmart, you'll find them in older malls and shopping centers. These people have been pocketing operational profits for decades and just dawging the image and livelyhood of the brand.

Kind of like the Pubes did from 2000-2008. That's what happens when you fail to invest and renovate, Walmart and Target have been actively doing what is needed to keep their stores viable for today and years to come.

If you like the Bush days...... go out and get about 10 credit cards and run them all up. Max them out. When the bill comes in the mail, just rip it up. I'm sure you can be happy again until the collection agency starts calling. this was the GOP's philossophy, create a false illusion of prosperity. the problem is, you are eventualy going to have to wake up from your fantasy and pay your bills.

Remember Republicans don't believe in facts!!!!