First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Ron Indiana — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:28:44 GMT

This team and That team (read “Renegade”)

Politico reports that Joe Sestak will run against Arlen Specter in Pennsylvania. Before Joe makes his formal announcement, I predict the good people of PA will select Joe over Arlen in the primary and Sestak will win in the general.

Mark or Domenico: Although it is Thursday, many will take tomorrow off for a three day weekend. So, I have three questions for FR.

1. Will Chuck Todd be going with our President to Russia?

2. Does Chuck Todd read our comments?

3. About 70 of us actively blog on FR, but you must get 100’s of hits per day. How active is this website?

Pat, I caught your comments regarding your Bosox. Just wondering: I know there are many baseball historians, but could the baseball historian who responded to your blog be none other than Keith Olbermann?

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Benjamin Franklin — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:29:01 GMT

“The ordaining of laws in favor of one part of the nation, to the prejudice and oppression of another, is certainly the most erroneous and mistaken policy. An equal dispensation of protection, rights, privileges, and advantages, is what every part is entitled to, and ought to enjoy.”

If just one American does not enjoy liberty, justice and equality, then none of us do. How poor is a nation where a citizen fights only for himself? A country and its people who pride themselves with the knowledge that all men are created equal, must forever be a nation which continues to fight for all. John Adams, John Hancock, Sam Adams, Paul Revere, and our military, who without food, money or proper clothing, only began this fight back in the 18th century. Each generation in their own right must continue to carry the torch, to make progress each and every day.

So may you all stand side by side, as we did, to ensure liberty and equality for all. Always. For it is common decency that every American desires, and deserves.

Happy 4th of July to you and your loved ones. And please, teach your children well. They are the future.

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Lynn Wheatly — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:29:08 GMT

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Benjamin Rush, on the ratification of the Constitution — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:30:18 GMT

'Tis done. We have become a nation.

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Feisty Redhead Roselle, IL — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:30:44 GMT

Do you care at all about Americans taking care of Americans? or is it only about money?
Ron Indiana (Sent Wednesday, July 01, 2009 3:26 PM)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Ron… it’s ALWAYS about the almighty $$$ with the greedy self centered selfish GEENOPEE! They still think they can take it with them!

You know a while ago my husband & I had a rather heated disagreement when one of the Mega Lotteries here in IL was at around 200 Million – his (keep in mind he is a leftie) stance was you couldn’t possibly spend all of it – my stance was … wanna bet???

Depending on which angle you looked at it from – his being that it would be impossible for one person/family to go through that kind of money!

My take was that nothing would bring me more joy & happiness than paying off the house, maybe doing some remolding – paying off the car (possibly buying a new one) making sure our families were comfortable and doing some travel that so far I’ve only been able to dream about…

I would then quit my job and become a full time philanthropist – because nothing in this world could give me more gratification than giving either money or time to people that are in need!

Therein lays the difference with the left & the right – the left cares about ALL people & the right care only for themselves & their wallets!

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again – money doesn’t buy happiness & the clowns around here prove it to us EVERY SINGLE DAY!

Happy 4th to all – whew… what a year it’s been – seems like only yesterday I was making that trek to WI every weekend on behalf our current President! What good times! Best investment I’ve ever made! Let’s take a moment and reflect on just how lucky we are – for what the past represents and to be here at this time to witness history!

David Gregory HAS GOT TO GO…
Replace him NOW with Lawrence O’…

To Chuck, Mark & Domenico:

Chuck – loved the interview on Hardball last night with Mike Murphy (for a republican the guy is palatable. I’ve been a bit hard on you guys this week! Let’s just make sure we keep this the BEST place on the web for political discourse! Are you guys taking the day off tomorrow??? You deserve it! Oh and one other little favor… would you mind helping this ‘little redhead’ out and give me Jeff Zucker’s e-mail address… It’ll be our little secret ;0) I promise…

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Billy Norton, Texas — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:31:23 GMT

>> Expect Republicans -- once again -- to pounce on these numbers and question the stimulus <<

Gee, you think? Does Obama even know what he's talking about? He keeps telling us things are getting better, but they never do. Now the prediction is greater then 10% unemployment towards the end of this year going into next. Just what did Obama stimulate with his trillion dollar plan?

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Pete - Albany, NY — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:33:24 GMT

*** The GOP’s brand problem: This Washington Post piece has a fascinating take on why Norm Coleman lost to Al Franken: It’s all about the Republican Party’s brand. "[S]ome Republican strategists said the Coleman defeat ought to generate a broader reexamination of the party's status rather than simply a review of its legislative tactics. 'For [Coleman] to lose to Al Franken has to be a wake-up call to Republicans that the brand is what brought Coleman down,' GOP strategist John Feehery said. 'Hopefully that will spark a bigger strategic discussion about how to prevent the brand from bringing other people down.'"

-------------------------------------------

This, of course, won't happen. The G-NO-P would rather blame ACORN for "stealing" the election in Minnesota and otherwise just fling poo around the room.

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Frank "Grimey" Grimes, Springfield, USA — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:34:31 GMT

I think the problem people are having with Obama coincidentally having people from groups aligned with him being "randomly selected" to ask questions is that he promised to change, change, change the face of politics as usual. Doesn't look like that has happened.

As for the jobs number, Obama told us that there was no time to read the stimulus and that if it didn't get passed, unemployment could reach as high as 8 percent!!! Well, we've flown right past that number haven't we. And what do we do to top it...the House passes a cap and tax bill without reading it. Is it too much to ask for our representatives to read legislation before voting on it?

To all posters here...have a happy and safe 4th of July holiday.

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Greg P. NW Indiana — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:35:10 GMT

Finally, we won’t be publishing our morning note tomorrow, although we’ll update the Web site as news warrants.
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Enjoy your 4th of July Gentlemen, hopefully you have a weekend of hot-dogs, apple-pie, and Fireworks planned to celebrate this great nation.

And to all others, be careful with your fireworks...healthcare hasn't been reformed yet so a trip may get expensive :)

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

James, Spring Grove MN — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:36:17 GMT

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Pete - Albany, NY — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:36:27 GMT

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Nashville_fan — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:36:52 GMT

While I understand the cries of "home cooking" at the town hall meeting, it isn't as if anyone tried to hide there affiliations or backgrounds, and the President actually asked them to identify themselves.

Is it against the rules to speak to friendly crowds now?

Those of us who agree with the President like to ask him questions too!

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Trevor — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:36:53 GMT

"For those complaining that Obama is being held to a different standard than Bush, remember that he set his own standard, and that's why the media is pushing back so hard on him."

The media is hard on him is because he's a Democrat. "Liberal Media" is a laughable lie...DC is wired for Republicans.

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

cindy, las vegas, nv — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:38:09 GMT

Mark, Dom & crew - good week. Little slow on the loading up, but hey it's progress not perfection!

Hope everyone here enjoys and has a safe 4th of July.
I enjoy most who come here and post, there are a few I could do without, but that's freedom of speech we are so blessed with. God bless America and God bless our troops who are willing to fight for our freedom everyday.

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Beverly in Chicago — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:40:18 GMT

The White House and Kremlin do expect progress on negotiations to reduce strategic nuclear warheads to about 1,500 for each side.” Bottom line on the Kremlin visit: If the Russians insist missile defense needs to be a part of the nuke talks rather than a parallel discussion, then it'll be hard to call this part of the trip a success.
*************************************************

The Bush White house had a successful time in taking trillions of dollars in taxpayers money for a fraudulent war. Can you measure success by stating perhaps had not this fraud occurred there would be no need to continuously push for friendlily skies? The propaganda of fear was successful in the lying Bush administration. Ple-e-e-z-e get serious.

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Greg P. NW Indiana — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:40:39 GMT

Gee, you think? Does Obama even know what he's talking about? He keeps telling us things are getting better, but they never do. Now the prediction is greater then 10% unemployment towards the end of this year going into next. Just what did Obama stimulate with his trillion dollar plan? Billy Norton, Texas (Sent Thursday, July 02, 2009 9:31 AM)
----------------------------------------------------

The money for that 787 billion dollar stimulus plan is being released slowly and carefully so it doesn't disappear like the first 350 billion of TARP.

There has only been a small portion of the 787 Billion dollar stimulus plan. As more gets released, more jobs will be created.

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

TJ Wills, Lynn MA — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:41:09 GMT

[[Did the White House get a tad carried away in its attempt to stay on message at yesterday's town hall?]]

So now we know! Obama is the next Oprah! There are staged events, but this was one huge staged event. Give us a break, exploiting a cancer patient like Obama did for political gain? Having her come up, hugging her, and Obama bellowing "This is reason number one we need government healthcare"? Over the top!

My guess is that you'll never see a town hall where a businesss man says he went out of business from too high of government taxes and to many government regulations (and that happens every day) and Obama calls the guy up on stage, hugs him, and says "Here's the reason we need to lower taxes on busniesses in this country!"

Yeah, that will happen.

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Patrick, KY — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:41:15 GMT

Hey Feisty Redhead,

What cha doing to celebrate the 4th?

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Ron Indiana — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:41:55 GMT

Feisty: You caught me being a little annoyed at one of the rightwing nuts.

Keep reading Renegade. I'm about one chapter behind you.

First Read: Seems like Feisty is right, you are understaffed. In spite of all that, you guys do a good job!! Have a safe 4th.

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Eric, Salinas, CA — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:42:57 GMT

The unemployment rate went up far less than I expected last month even though more jobs were lost. We must remember that Clueless George was the one who screwed up our economy and he is responsible for all these job losses. The repugnant ones have no room to whine about the job losses when they are the ones who were for outsourcing our good paying unionized manufacturing jobs to China, now our financial overlord. It will take time but Obama's Recovery will turn around the bushwhacked economy and all of the bushwhacker's job losses.

Chuck Todd sure is doing a great job subbing for Chris on Hardball. He has a even handed approach top giving us his take on the political happenings. He is the one most deserving of replacing Tim Russert on Meet the Press since he's the one most like dearly departed Tim. I like Hardball better with Chuck or Lawrence O'Donnell better than I like it with Chris!

I'm glad that President Obama is getting after the Taliban and Al Qaeda in Afghanistan, yet again having to clean up a mess left by War Criminals Bush and Cheney. Too bad that Clueless George didn't maintain his focus on getting Osama bin Laden and was so stpuid he thought we could catch Osama in a three sided box at Tora Bora using the same jerks who were Osama's pals just weeks or days before.

In Chuck Todd We Trust!

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Typical Lib — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:43:01 GMT

Do you care at all about Americans taking care of Americans? or is it only about money?
Ron Indiana

As long as it's not your money paying for it, you don't care, right?

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Greg P. NW Indiana — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:43:19 GMT

Therein lays the difference with the left & the right – the left cares about ALL people & the right care only for themselves & their wallets!
-----------------------------------------------------

Plus the right would complain about the 60 million in taxes the govt. to where they would be left with a paltry 140 million.

that evil govt. taking so much of that hard earned lottery money.

lol.

I'm with you on this one fiesty.

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

MSierra, SF — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:45:37 GMT

'...they’re also forgetting that the economy lost 3.1 million jobs in Bush’s last year in office; in Obama’s first five months, the total loss has been 1.9 million)..'

Sorry, there was no WORKER'S PARADISE under George Bush
The Bush Recession STARTED under Bush due to his Economic MISMANAGEMENT

Many Christian Conservative Republicans pretend to be 'holier than thou'
Bush and the GOP also pretend to be 'Fiscal Conservatives'
Nothing could be further from the Truth
Bush DOUBLED OUR NATIONAL DEBT with a Republican Congress (first 6 years)

Thanks George, you and your party have left us in a shambles
Your Tax cuts cost $1.8 Trillion
That's a little more than the $1 Trillion for Health Care

WHICH would you rather have ??
Tax cuts for the RICH or Health Care for America ??

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Capitialist Pig — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:46:02 GMT

The jobs report. Another major hit on Obama's failed economic plan. Keynesian economics just doesn't work Obama. Can't just steal from the haves and give it to the have nots, not without producing something in return. But keep at it, sooner our later we'll be at 20% unemployment and the people will finally wake up to the fact of how crazy you are.

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Dave — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:46:33 GMT

--- Gee, you think? Does Obama even know what he's talking about? He keeps telling us things are getting better, but they never do. Now the prediction is greater then 10% unemployment towards the end of this year going into next. Just what did Obama stimulate with his trillion dollar plan? ---

----------------------------------------------------

Give me a break. It took Bush and the GOP years to get this country into its current sorry state. Now the ones who wrecked our economy expect Obama to fix it in a matter of months. Sometimes it seems like you people get dumber by the minute.

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Terri House, Burlington VT — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:47:42 GMT

Unemployment, when including the under-employed and the people that have just quit looking for work, is at 17%. Nice job Barry. Maybe you should throw another trillion at the problem.

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Houston — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:48:00 GMT

FR: "For those complaining that Obama is being held to a different standard than Bush, remember that he set his own standard, and that's why the media is pushing back so hard on him."
--------------------------------------------

So, the fact that Bush set no standards of ethics or conduct for himself is the reason why the press never "pushed back" at all while he bungled and lied his way through eight years of misgovernance? The excuses you people come up with for your double standards are hilarious.

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Fortunate Son — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:48:19 GMT

You've had the reigns for almost 6 months now and 8 years out of the last 28, and that guy, Clinton, lied under oath and was impeached. Not a good track record but we all can see how the liberal side of politics is excited through the roof to finally get it back ... but nothing appears to be working.
Unemployment at 9.5% with no end in sight.

When you elect a man who is a radical socialist at heart this is what you get. Lies to the middle class and monetary redistribution which will only cause more fallout and higher taxes through cap and trade, etc.

President Obama is a phony.

You have to laugh at the "scripted" questions from the last Town Hall meeting. It's been like that all along but the goo goo media is now just realizing it.
Stay awake and you might find out more about the one they call Obama. Tell the truth, New York Times, for a change. The president is walking all over you.

No more Barackababble. The media will cut him up as quickly as they pandered to him. This party may be over. All the phoniness aside, Obama is disruptive to America's real needs.

We don't need radio ga ga and television goo goo to sift through the deception that is Barack Obama.

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Palin-Wurzelbacher 2012 — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:49:47 GMT

Or should we just say your lying and call it a day?
Lynn Wheatly
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Ok, call it a lie if that will shut youre pie hole.

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Talk Is Cheap — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:51:28 GMT

First Read --> Not surprisingly, of course, Obama will today talk about jobs, innovation, and the economy

Obama is going talk about it. That's nice. All the newly unemployed people can be comforted by his words.

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Juan,Ft lauderdale, fl — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:51:57 GMT

The GOP will need more than just a re-evaluation/rebrand. How about an infusion of common sense, dose of reality, true compassion, refrain from pandering to religious nuts/hate mongers, not using wedge issues, stop wrapping themselves in the flag, and somehow find a soul. NAH!Not going to happen in my life.

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Eric, Salinas, CA — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:52:01 GMT

President Obama's townhall meeting yesterday was another powerful show of empathy for the little people. What a powerful shot that was when Debby Smith detailed her medical problems and Obama had her come over so he could give her a hug and promise some government help. We never saw that with Clueless George or any other repugnant one because all they would have done for her was kick her while she's down and tell her to get a job.

I sure enjoyed Ed Schultz yesterday as he got really passionate in his Op Ed segment about pushing for the public option for health care reform. He's the Great Liberal Preacher preaching the Great Liberal Gospel and he's really the best new persona on MSNBC tv. I love the way he gets after the evil elephants in his Psycho Talk segment, but then the repugnant ones give him so much ammo with all their clueless rantings every day.

The disgusting 1994 congress of repugnant ones reminds me more of the Orwellian 1984 novel happening for real here. Their agenda has made our country far more screwed up than anything the Democrats could have done back then. About time that the Democrats get a backbone and push through our agenda to repair the damage done since 1994 by the repugnant ones. The Democrats need to push through health care and energy reforms even if they have to use the reconciliation procedure in the Senate.

In Obama We Trust!

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Chris - IL — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:52:30 GMT

Lynn Wheatly (Sent Thursday, July 02, 2009 9:29 AM)
---------------------------------------------------
You might want to actually look at the data and read what is written. The worst month for job losses was January, 2009. February, March, April, and May were each better than the previous month. June was up a little over May, but still better than April.

There is a clear trend that the job losses are slowing. You have to look at multiple months of data in order for it to mean anything.

The first trend was job losses consistently increasing from January 2008 through January 2009.

Finally, creating jobs and job losses are two completely separate metrics. If I create a new company that goes out and immediately hires 100 people, I've created 100 jobs. There is no question about it. But if the company across the street is struggling and lays off 150 people, there is still a net loss of jobs.

The anti-Obama method of looking at this data seems to say, "There was a net loss of 50 jobs, so he is doing a horrible job and not creating new jobs." But the truth is, without those 100 NEW jobs, the jobless increase would have been 150.

This may be too much for you to understand when all you want to see is the failure of America so you can prove that the republicans are right. But despite all the republican prayers and wishes that our country completely and utterly fail, it would appear that President Obama has put us back on the right track and things are slowly improving.

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Nashville_fan — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:52:49 GMT

Chuck,

I saw you on Morning Joe this morning and enjoyed your conversation about the relationship between the press and the White House - very enlightening to hear things from an "inside the press" perspective.

I agree that it is easy to bash the press and paint with a broad brush, however it seems to me that the press is frustrated with the Obama Administration for not being the "we are the world" pansies that they portrayed them as during the election.

The White House is going to tell you what they want you to know when they want you to know it. Why is that such a problem for the press?

If the news they are feeding you is not enough, you are going to have to strike out on your own and *gasp* feed yourselves.

I don't have a problem with the press asking tough questions or not being satisfied with the answers they receive.

But I do have a problem with the sneering, "What took you so long?" style of question that include built in opinions and value judgements. It's unprofessional, needlessly combative, and seems to feed the reporters need to be the story instead of get the story.

I guess my question is, what does the press expect the White House to do, go all Gov. Sanford and give you all a "heart to heart" daily?

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Sean — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:52:50 GMT

He should have never has sold his stimulus as saving the number of jobs as he did. He put it out there, and there was no way he could back that up. It is simply just not possible.

There should be a new standard set on these "love in" meetings. Half should be taken from the demo's and half from the repub's with equal amount of questions being taken from each side. It would set a new standard of answering the tough questions of the American people, and then Obama could claim to be truly the President of the all the people of America.

This should be the standard of all Presidents moving forward.

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Billy Norton, Texas — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:53:19 GMT

The money for that 787 billion dollar stimulus plan is being released slowly and carefully so it doesn't disappear like the first 350 billion of TARP.

There has only been a small portion of the 787 Billion dollar stimulus plan. As more gets released, more jobs will be created.
Greg P. NW Indiana

---------------------------

Obama said pass my stimulus plan, or unemployment will go over 8%. What's unemployment at today Greg?

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Beverly in Chicago — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:53:31 GMT

Billy Norton, Texas (Sent Thursday, July 02, 2009 9:31 AM)

Gee, you think? Does Obama even know what he's talking about? He keeps telling us things are getting better, but they never do. Now the prediction is greater then 10% unemployment towards the end of this year going into next. Just what did Obama stimulate with his trillion dollar plan?
****************************************
Gee, don’t you think if you worked very hard and lost your job you’d know what you’re doing too. Well it wouldn’t be you fault you can’t pay bills now because you lost your job. Well that’s what happened with tax revenues drive by the Bushwhacker. America lost trillions and can't pay her bills either. But Bush knew what he was doing because he and his cronies are lining their pockets while probably you’re suffering.

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Drew, Cincinnati, Ohio — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:55:04 GMT

Lynn and Ron:
Once again you right wing air bags would rather toss poo then actually read the numbers. President Obama has already stopped the loss of about 4 million jobs. He cannot reverse the Bush/Republican trend of 8 years of mismanagement in mere months. Please stick with the facts. Remember Confucious once said it is better to remain silent and be thought a fool then to open your mouth and remove all doubt.

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Jonathan Flint, MI — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:55:13 GMT

So the GOP continues to implode. The party leadership and the party base see things differently. One of two things will happen. One they will shed the moral conservatism schtick, and actually start preaching conservative government. They take their licks, and lose for a few years until they can regain some credibility before the surge forward.
Two. (and what I view as the more likely) they will pick a few leftists issues to support, and inject them into the platform and call it being moderate. It might work for an election or two, but it will do more damage to the party in the long run. The GOP will then go the way of Arlen Spector.

Also I think heated some discussion was sparked yesterday due to my "When am I allowed to critisize..." question. I wrote this to kind of respond to every side, but tailored to specifically two folks.

Nashville,

Here is my olive branch. I feel that the question I’m posing is being misinterpreted. I do not advocate Bush policies in general. He was an awful President, but this was in a string of awful Presidents since the turn of the 20th century (excluding Harding and Coolidge who weren’t the cream of the crop, but they weren’t awful). So in an effort to show some sincerity on my part here is my Bush Laundry list of evils.

Massive expansion of the FCC promoting more censorship and trampling on the 1st amendment than probably any president since at least Wilson, and more likely since the Alien and Sedition acts of John Adams.

Campaigning on a return to Humble foreign policy and ceasing the practice of nation building, only to decide none of those ideas have any merit in the wake of 9/11 (Liar!).

Tax Cuts without corresponding spending cuts (en masse!)

Trusting Greenspan, and later Bernanke to guide the economy (You can call him a conservative if you like, but his fiscal policies were far from conservative).

The overthrow of the Afghan government. (We should have gone after bin laden, but there was no need to overthrow the entire government)

The Patriot Act. Or as I like to call it: You don’t need the fourth, fifth, and sixth amendments anymore act.

Nitpicking Iraq violations of U.N. sanctions while turning the other cheek to some similar violations by Israel.

Invading Iraq. The whole debacle; I’m against it all. There is no excuse for any of it.

Letting Darth Cheney expand the office of the VP beyond its constitutional limits.

Permitting Cheney and Rumsfeld to operate almost unchecked for several years. Which in turn gave us phantom loopholes allowing for the torture of “enemy combatants” flying a metaphorical “FU” in the face of the Geneva convention.

Supporting the legislation of morality (like he knew anything about it to begin with).

Using the very Truman Idea of limited war in Iraq, and waiting a full three years before he actually committed a fighting force in the proper proportion to the job at hand. This “blunder” was quite murderous.

Patriot Act (part deux).

Replacing Free Market Enterprise with some lame limp wristed version of social corporatism. This of course blossomed into full blown corporate corruption that we are enjoying the rotten fruits of right now.

Troubled Asset Relief Program. Here you get the wastefulness of a Socialist program, and the lack of oversight the GOP made famous in the first decade of the century.

And I’ll cap it off with…Bush was a Neo-Con Draconian Fascist in every sense of the words.

So here I ask again. When can I judge Obama on his merits and policy decisions? I understand he is dealing with problems he didn’t create. I understand the Iraq war was not his idea, but to simply invoke the deaths of soldiers as a reasoning for Obama to be above reproach IS hyperbole. Frankly I think he is dealing with the troop withdraws fairly well. I would like to see more of this around the globe. Our empire is expensive to run, and hardly necessary to our security as many on both sides of the aisle would have us believe.

And to Eric. I only address you because I think you probably need to read my posts a little better. You keep lumping me in with the GOP, when I have repeatedly told you I am not in their camp, and I agree with you Bush was an idiot. The only “conservative” stance I really take is the literal translation of the Constitution, and government non-intervention in the lives and economy of American citizens. I hate war, I hate being told what to do when I’m not hurting anyone, I hate having to pay taxes into a system that consistently debases the value of my wages through inflation, I think the war on drugs should be ended…in short I like my freedom. That is why I’m a card carrying Libertarian. I feel my rights are natural not granted by some white haired dope in DC, and neither major party fully represents a true Jeffersonian view of government. Also my party isn’t a cheapskate party we simply feel people should have every opportunity to take care of themselves (so yes that includes keeping more of your wages and being responsible). Your inflammatory nature doesn’t really invoke a lot of faith in your opinions (Also I can’t stand Fox News, I watch c-span if I watch anything).

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Just Say No — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:55:15 GMT

Democrats - The new party of NO!

No jobs, no clue, no time to read the bills they pass.

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

no joe, no bo, nj — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:55:41 GMT

On unemployment, Obama sits in the White House wondering why his 'perfect' solutions don't work. As an academician, there are perfect solutions to every problem. They do work perfectly in the Ivory Tower, but not in the real world.

He has never before encountered unintended consequences; these are not part of any academic discussion, as they do not exist in the straight line arguments so popular in such debates.

One example of such thinking was the vilification of Chrysler's secured bondholders. They were decryed as selfish, greedy Wall Street billionaires who cared little for the hardworking union members who stood to lose some of their benefits. In the mind of Obama and other academicians, this was irrefutable truth.

However, the reality is that those secured bondholders were police officers and teachers, whose retirement funds were invested in these secured bonds. When faced with that reality, Obama did what most academicians do when confronted with a reality that does not match their hyperbole-he ignored it. And the loyal press, in utter disregard for any journalistic ethics, ignored it with him.

He has the same answers for the rising unemployment rate, the exploding federal deficit, the incredible costs of any national health care plan, cap and trade-pick an issue. When the reality does not match his vision, he ignores reality.

That's fine at a college. Students learn to write what the professor's will grade well, no matter what they truly believe. Or, they get out into the real world and discover that most of what they learned in college is not useful, and they apply themselves to learning what is useful.

Not so Obama, who seems incapable of admitting that he is wrong about anything. The stimulus isn't stimulating anything but the deficit? Well, we need more of it! Unemployment is still rising faster than projected six months ago? It's, um, well, Bush's fault!

We'll have a chance to p[ut the reins on him in 2010, and return him to academia in 2012; I only hope it isn't too late by then for this country to recover from this experiment.

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Feisty Redhead Roselle, IL — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:56:26 GMT

Where are the jobs Barack? Layoffs are increasing again, not decreasing like you said they would. You said there would be 600,000 new jobs this summer. With today's data, you'll need to create more then a million in the next few months to reach your goal.

Or should we just say your lying and call it a day?
Lynn Wheatly (Sent Thursday, July 02, 2009 9:29 AM)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Who peed in your Cheerio’s this morning Lynn?

Your material is sooo……………. Ordinary………………

Oh… and… that would be Mr. President!

Inquiring minds want to know just how much it pains you to say it… I know how I felt the last 8 years…
R E S P E C T…. payback’s a b*tch now isn’t it

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Pete Roleum, Detroit, MI USA — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:57:21 GMT

I will ask these questions again today. No doubt I will be receive a chorus of Bush bashing and every possible insulting permutation of the spelling of Republican, but I know I won't receive any coherent, honest answers.

What are Obama and the Democrat-controlled Congress doing about:

Unemployment over 10% and rising.

Gasoline averaging $3 per gallon.

Despite the hype, no end in sight for Iraq, Afghanistan or North Korean problems.

GM, one of Americas largest and oldest manufacturing firms is now a bankrupt shell.

Housing starts still in the toilet and 30 year fixed mortgage rates rising.

Hundreds of billions given to the banks by Obama AND BUSH, but interest rates on savings and CD's are at Depression-era levels.

Bush has been gone for 6 months. Obama and Pelosi have the keys to Fort Knox and STILL the economy is swirling down the toilet.

The only answer I got yesterday was this classic from Anita in George Wallace Land:

"Pete Roleum, Detroit, MI USA

Psssst...take some economic classes and listen to the news...watch CNBC.
Anita, Birmingham, alabama (Sent Wednesday, July 01, 2009 9:42 AM)"
----------------------------------------------------
Thank you Alabama public schools.

Anita you need to retake English class, then you would not use the ADJECTIVE economic when you need to use the NOUN economics.

I have studied economics and it does not answer the question on how Obama will pay for these handouts or reduce unemployment! Sincerely, Pete Roleum

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Alan, NJ — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:57:35 GMT

I would like the tax records and personal life of the cancer patient revealed for all to see. She is obviously an operative. All GOP officials/supporters in government and in hospitals should trawl through her personal and private details and make them public. She is pimping herself for Health Care Reform and has no right to a private life. I hope David Letterman and Bill Maher have jokes ripping her apart on their monologues this week!

PS This is sarcasm based in what happens in real life.

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Anita, Birmingham, Alabama — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:58:15 GMT

From Chuck Todd, Mark Murray, Domenico Montanaro, and Ali Weinberg
*** Unemployment at 9.5%:

---------------------------
Yes and we expected it. The republicans can pounce all they want. They are banking on the lack of patience of Americans because that think that we suffer from short term memory loss. But Americans aren't that easily duped. We recognize the fact that the number of jobs that have been lossed wont just majically return. We are still experiencing the fallout of the Bush administrations debacle. This "depression" happened on his watch and it started eight years ago with the lies and deception.
----------------------------------

*** Home cookin’ at the town hall?
For those complaining that Obama is being held to a different standard than Bush, remember that he set his own standard, and that's why the media is pushing back so hard on him.
--------------------------

Media, there is common sense and there is BS. The latter get's me stirred. Candidate Obama had no idea that was actually facing his Presidency and neither did the "media". Just before he was elected into office and we went to the polls, Bush's mismanagement of this nation was unfolding. If media wishes to hold him to "his" standards of pre-election promises, then in all fairness, media should hold themselves to those same standards by constantly "reporting" the facts of our nations demise and the worlds economic colapse.

We finally have responsible leadership in the White House and campaign promises should change according to the the environment the elected President is faced with. I would rather he deviate from campaign rhetoric rather than continued rhetoric...we know the difference, we lived it for eight years...isn't that how we got into Iraq? Lies abd BS....

Mr. President you are allowed to change course as it suits our present environment, after all that is what responsible leadership does.

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Republicans keep spinning, and America's getting dizzy — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:58:33 GMT

Why is it that the party that TWICE elected a President who didn't even like to read a newspaper and nominated a Vice Presidential candidate who tried to ban books is suddenly OBSESSED with reading legislation, reading our emails, and reading love letters from their mistress(es)?

Strange, no?

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Judy in AZ — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:59:18 GMT

Regarding the "optics" of Obama's town hall meeting:
I can't understand why you say they aren't good. If someone wanted to ask a question, they were certainly allowed to. What all that really indicates to me is that most people agree with HCR and they were present at that meeting to offer their support.

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Chandler W. — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:59:21 GMT

There are jobs beginning to appear out there. My son, who left At&T, was offered two jobs. He spent a lot of time networking and internet searching. Also, he had someone check his resume, update it, and reword for different industries. He chose to work in telecommunitcations, which he loves. This company was started in a gargage of one of of its owners.

There will be more of this once people get that green energy is the way to go.

As for health care - again I will say, I know too many people who thought they had good insurance and were burnt. I know someone, self-employed, who has to spend almost 2,000.00 a month on insurance. She now has breast cancer and is not covered for some of the physical therapy she needs.

I have health insurance through the town in which I teach. So far, I have only had to fight with them once, but others have not been so lucky. However, I am thankful for the insurance I do have.

Right now I pay about 120 or so a month for insurance. This is not taxed. If the policy I get, 7,600.00 for a single, is added to my salary I will have to pay more taxes. My comment: So what?

I would rather pay taxes on that amount because the taxes will never come near to paying for a full policy. Also, if I can help someone else, I am more than happy to do it.

Besides, do all the people who crab about paying for the uninsured understand that each time a person who does not have a doctor or insurance shows up at an emergency room, we who have health care pay anyway.

Everyone needs to take a breath, think logically. If every industrialized nation has universal health care, what is wrong with us?

Those in Congress who are trying to obstruct health care reform should be denied their government coverage, which as you must know, we, the taxpayers pay for. If they see nothing wrong with our health care, let them throw their lot in with the rest of us.

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

jawillie Philadelphia, PA — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:59:29 GMT

Since you guys won't be around tomorrow (probably, neither will I), I'd like to put a challenge to everyone here on this most patriotic of holidays.

We all constantly complaing (both on the left and the right) about what's wrong with this country. We gripe about government, presidents, policies, each other, and everything else. I'll be the first to admit to taking a somewhat demented glee whenever I get to slam some rightie here for saying something stupid (which is about once an hour), and I'm sure there are some righties that feel the same. But to my point, a little reflection here. I challenge everyone here to post one thing (on any blog post) that you LOVE about this great land of ours. Seriously, with all of its problems this IS the greatest country in the world, and it always has been. So what is it that you believe makes this country so great?

My entry: Anyone with the will and desire can be whatever he or she wishes if they are willing to work at it. Anyone, regardless of race or color, can ascend to whatever heights he/she desires. I put this one to my African-American brothers and sisters. The excuses are gone now. You can no longer say "blacks can't achieve this or that". We have an African-American as leader of the free world now (that oughta keep the righties up at night). We should no longer have to settle for anything less for ourselves.

God Bless the USA (feels good to say that again)

http://jawillie.blog.com

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Jonathan Flint, MI — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 14:00:53 GMT

Chris - IL (Sent Thursday, July 02, 2009 9:52 AM)
-------------
But is the growth sustainable? I mean any jobs created are probably stimulus related...so when the stimulus money runs out, what then?

The same thing kind of happened during WWII. People were working, but it primarily to support an unsustainable War Effort. By the close of the War were spending 120% of the GDP, and massive restructuring had to be done during the Eisenhower admin. (Not that I thought Ike did that great of a job, but the last bits of New Deal found their grave during his Admin.)

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Eric, Salinas, CA — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 14:00:58 GMT

Happy 4th of July to all the great First Read crew and the wonderful Obama supporters who help spread Truth, Justice and the True American Way. As always another great week here at First Read, the best place on the web for political discourse!

The repugnant ones brand problem comes from the fact that they aren't interested in helping the people, just the big corporations they are in thrall to for their money. They have such slime as the Wasilla Hillbilly, Adulterers Ensign, Vitter and Sanford, and that oil clown inhofe who's the only idiot in the Senate who doesn't believe in climate change. The evil elephants have no agenda and only want to stop the progress we need that President Obama wants to deliver. Worst of all they have the evangelical christian lunatic fringe pushing their party way off to the right of facism. Why do the repugnant ones hate our secular democracy so much?

I hope that Adulterer Sanford keeps on talking as he's talking his way out of a job and a marriage everytime he opens his ignorant mouth. I so enjoy watching the repugnant ones tear themselves apart argueing about that Wicked Witch of Alaska who's a one woman ethics disaster area. It is just too funny listening to her myraid excuses trying to excuse her clueless disgusting behavior during the general election. I can't wait to see her meltdown in 2012.

In First Read We Trust!
Happy 4th of July to All!

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Tim, ATL — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 14:01:05 GMT

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Lynn Wheatly — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 14:01:27 GMT

Chris - Il hand waves and hurts his arm doing so, and then says this:

This may be too much for you to understand when all you want to see is the failure of America.

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

I guess the truth is starting to soak into the liberals of the country. The magic they thought Obama had, the Changes he said he was going to make, they were all lies. It isn't complicated Chris. Obama said he'd create jobs, he hasn't. It's not a matter of hoping for failuire, it's acknowledging that failure has occurred. You and other liberals seem to struggle with that truth. Maybe it's time yuou wiped the stars out of your eyes and started to objectively looked at what Obama has done. Maybe then you'll start seeing what many others are, Obama is failing.

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Pat Huntington NY — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 14:02:08 GMT

Cue the rolling of my eyes in response to the Where's the Jobs Barak? posts....

Unemployment is a lagging economic indicator. Meaning, it is the last thing to show improvement as the economy turns from the bottom up to recovery. Also, how can people complain about unemployment going up when those same people opposed any bailouts for the auto industry! If the auto industry was not bailed out, there would be millions, yes, I said MILLIONS of jobs lost. So, sorry, but yes, Obama did save jobs by saving the auto industry. Also, if this year ends with less jobs lost than last year, clearly, Obama is doing a much better job than Bush did, and seems we're on that track.

So, for the Lynns, moons, no bo no joes, etc. out there...take a chill pill, read your Economics 101 book again, and think first before typing your dribble rhetoric nonsense!

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Kerri Webber, Iowa — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 14:02:41 GMT

Barack Obama - The romping stomping job killing machine!!

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

And the Vikings will win the Super Bowl! — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 14:03:52 GMT

"If the election was reheld today, Coleman would win with 60% of the vote."

James, Spring Grove MN

Dude, if a frog had wings... From what I'm seeing in the Star-Tribune, Coleman's career is quite possibly dead!

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Pat, Boston, MA — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 14:03:59 GMT

Ron, I don't know who answered me, but I was thrilled to see the answer I was provided. I love reading about Cobb and Crawford. What ballplayers we had back then! I really appreciated the feedback, after being so TICKED OFF the night before. Lol. His/her answer made me smile.

Enjoy the 4th everyone. To Chuck Todd and to others @ First Read who are traveling to Russia with the president this weekend - have a safe trip. I can't wait to read your insights. How lucky you are to have an opportunity travel all over the world.

Mark & Domenico: You are two really good sports. Thanks for the hard work you put into this site. It's professional, but more importantly, it's fun.

I hope you all get to have cook outs, parades, fireworks, baseball, the beach. I on the other hand will enjoy our 40 days & 40 nights of rain. But I will make the most of it. I will head down the street to John Adams' house once again as I do every year and will take with me as usual, someone who has yet to visit his home. I so enjoy getting people to connect once again with our history. They are always overwhelmed when they finish their tour of Adams' house. It's a great home to walk through.

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Feisty Redhead Roselle, IL — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 14:04:13 GMT

Feisty: You caught me being a little annoyed at one of the rightwing nuts.
Ron Indiana (Sent Thursday, July 02, 2009 9:41 AM)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

It’s okay Ron… everyone’s entitled to an ‘off day’! I admire your composure because I’m always ANNOYED with the right wing nuts! Not that it’s obvious or anything. LOL
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Hey Feisty Redhead,

What cha doing to celebrate the 4th?
Patrick, KY (Sent Thursday, July 02, 2009 9:41 AM)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Curious why you care… but BBQ’s with friends & family to CELEBRATE this great nation and how far we’ve come and where we’re going…

In my down time savoring every page of Renegade…

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Math Guy — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 14:04:33 GMT

Beverly in Chicago - Well that’s what happened with tax revenues drive by the Bushwhacker. America lost trillions and can't pay her bills either.

Tax revenues increased after Bush's tax cuts. Thanks for playing though.

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

IntheMiddle, TX — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 14:04:39 GMT

This may be too much for you to understand when all you want to see is the failure of America so you can prove that the republicans are right. But despite all the republican prayers and wishes that our country completely and utterly fail, it would appear that President Obama has put us back on the right track and things are slowly improving.

Chris - IL (Sent Thursday, July 02, 2009 9:52 AM)

*************************************************

Apparently YOU are the one that needs an education. The frikken job loss numbers have steadily climbed every month and not by a 50 jobs. This sh** is substantial. You sound like a damn plant the way you push the administrations points.

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Bill, Fairfax, VA — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 14:05:13 GMT

FR: " 'For [Coleman] to lose to Al Franken has to be a wake-up call to Republicans that the brand is what brought Coleman down,' GOP strategist John Feehery said. 'Hopefully that will spark a bigger strategic discussion about how to prevent the brand from bringing other people down.'"

Finally, some sensible talk about the current plight of the party. The previous pillars of the Repub 'brand' -- fiscal conservatism, strong defense, adherence to free market economic philosophy, lower taxes -- have pretty much been discredited. The Bush years put the kibosh on any notion of fiscal conservatism, an unpopular war in Iraq and inability to track down bin Laden eroded their credibility on defense issues, and the economic meltdown demonstrated for all to see that the 'free market' can and does produce catastrophic failures. Lower taxes is still a good issue for them (particularly in the context of Obama's policies), but not nearly enough.

The Repubs have an arduous task ahead of them and there is no quick fix. Like baseball players during a long season, they will need to grind away to restore credibility on fiscal conservatism and defense issues. The Repub 'brand' will be of less value than the individual candidates running on these issues. They need good fresh people, keep the Newts in the closet.

With respect to their blinding adherence to free market principles, they need to wake up and smell the coffee -- the free market failed and the implications of that failure are likely to be with us for many years to come. Repubs need to acknowledge the need for regulation to control the unfettered impulses of market participants when those impulses present a clear and present danger to the economic well being of all of us. If Repubs don't come to grips with that, they will need to get used to an extended stay in the political wilderness.

On the plus side, it is entirely posssible that Obama will accelerate Repub resurgence by virtue of his policies. While the leftist extremists on this blog may think that health care 'reform', cap and trade, higher taxes, Pelosimobiles that get 137 mpg are all great things, it's not clear that the rest of the country shares that view. In a nutshell, it's not clear that the country voted for the kind of change that Obama is trying to foist on us. It's fair to say the country was tired of Bush and wanted a change from him and his policies. But that's not the same as saying the country wants to be led down the primrose path of a decidely leftward shift in governemnt policy.

So, all hope is not lost for the Repubs, Obama will probably help them regain their footing. But they need to pay careful attention to adjusting their message in response to current realities.

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Tim, ATL — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 14:09:04 GMT

WHICH would you rather have ??
Tax cuts for the RICH or Health Care for America ??
MSierra, SF
----------------------------
Easy, tax cuts for the rich!!

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Hit the Bong Lefties — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 14:09:26 GMT

== Therein lays the difference with the left & the right – the left cares about ALL people ==

The left cares about ALL people, as long as others peoples money is used to fix the problem.

Great people, those lefties.

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

California Tom — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 14:09:43 GMT

Bush spent 8 years putting our economy in the toilet and you GOP clowns expect Obama to fix it in 6 months.

Get a life.

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

BJ, CA — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 14:10:25 GMT

Main Street not Wall Street...

Anyone seen "Change" lately that is good?

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Pete Roleum, Detroit, MI USA — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 14:11:29 GMT

Who peed in your Cheerio’s this morning Lynn? R E S P E C T…. payback’s a b*tch now isn’t it
Feisty Redhead Roselle, IL (Sent Thursday, July 02, 2009 9:56 AM)
----------------------------------------------------
When the Barack faithful cannot provide any concrete answers they resort to name-calling, insults and vindictiveness.

Better be careful or Congress may make Bush-Bashing a hate crime. The Democrats Politically Correct censorship is going to come back and bite them in the rump!

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Nashville_fan — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 14:13:00 GMT

To Jonathan, Flint MI:

Wow! Thanks for taking the time to respond so thoroghly, thanks for thinking for yourself, and thanks for sharing your opinions here.

I enjoy your posts, though I don't always agree with them.

As I said yesterday, I don't think holding President Bush (and Cheney) accountable for their actions is equivalent to absolving President Obama of responsibility for his actions.

I don't feel that enough time has passed to decide if the Obama Administration will ulitimately be a success or failure, but of course you are free to criticize on your own timetable . . . we'll just have to agree to disagree on that one I guess . . . time will certainly tell!

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Mark Murray — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 14:13:19 GMT

Pat in Boston -- thanks for the kind words. You guys make this blog fun for us. Have a great holiday and thanks for reading and posting.

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Jt Hawkings, MA — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 14:14:22 GMT

Pat Huntington NY - Unemployment is a lagging economic indicator.

Liberals keep saying that, but the job losses continue at a blistering pace. In that respect, jobs are not a lagging indicator in that there are more people that are barely spending any money. No money spent means less and less economic activity and an exteneded recession, especially with the huge numbers of people that are unemployed.

You need to start to think outside the box to begin to understand what problems this massive unemployment is causing.

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Just Ask'n — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 14:15:54 GMT

Bush spent 8 years putting our economy in the toilet and you GOP clowns expect Obama to fix it in 6 months.

Get a life.
California Tom

CT, how's it feel to get an IOU from Arnie rather then your welfare check?

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Media Skeptic — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 14:16:40 GMT

On Obama's friendly audience: Remember when it was discovered that Bush's press secretary had a ringer in the audience who was called on to ask soft-ball questions? Remember that it turned out he was a male "escort"?

Remember how people wearing anti-war slogans on their tee-shirts who managed to get past Bush's audience screeners were arrested by Bush's secret service at Bush town halls where only Republicans were allowed?

Remember how ALL of President Obama's town halls except for this last one have been in areas that were largely Republicans, who got into the town halls as easily as pro-Obama people and who were not arrested?

If you don't remember any of this, it's because the so-called "liberal" media didn't much care how stacked in his favor Bush's audiences were or how much courage Obama has shown by wading into tough audiences.

Only the REAL liberal media like the Huffington Post and Keith Olbermann covered any of these stories in more than a cursory fashion. The corporate media cares only about how it can bring down Obama and install someone like the loony Mark Sanford as president in 2012 whom they can fawn over again like they fawned over Bush for 8 years. Ah, those were the days!

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

IntheMiddle, TX — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 14:17:46 GMT

Inquiring minds want to know just how much it pains you to say it… I know how I felt the last 8 years…
R E S P E C T…. payback’s a b*tch now isn’t it

Feisty Redhead Roselle, IL (Sent Thursday, July 02, 2009 9:56 AM)

And just how much money did Bush taqke out of YOUR pocket???? Thats what I thought.......

You need to go somewhere and sit down. Your ignorant rants on here are getting old and played out.

Remember this: Obama wont be the POTUS forever. The pendulum will swing back the Republicans way (it always does) and then you will see your f***** payback.

You add 0 dialogue to any conversation in here. Most people just ignore your stupid azz but I just want to put you on blast.

If you think you can run with the Big Dogs, then bring it!!!!!!

FR you need to stop censoring remarks everytime someone responds to these liberal rants. You let these idiots constantly disrespect Republicans but you sparingly post the response.

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Pete Roleum, Detroit, MI USA — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 14:18:47 GMT

As for the jobs number, Obama told us that there was no time to read the stimulus and that if it didn't get passed, unemployment could reach as high as 8 percent!!! Frank "Grimey" Grimes, Springfield, USA (Sent Thursday, July 02, 2009 9:34 AM)
---------------------------------------------------
Amen Grimey!

Here are some more Obama lies for the Barack cheerleaders to chew on:

Obama Lie #1- Obama said his tax plan would reduce taxes for 95 percent of working families. "If you are a family making less than $250,000 a year, you will not see your taxes go up," Obama said repeatedly on the campaign trail last year.

Obamas proposed cap and trade carbon tax would be an extremely regressive energy tax on ALL Americans. Heating costs, food costs and gasoline prices would rise dramatically in spite of the BS from these leftist think tanks trying to sugar coat it otherwise.

Obama Lie #2 - "I'll make oil companies like Exxon pay a tax on their windfall profits, and we'll use the money to help families pay for their skyrocketing energy costs and other bills," Obama said.

Not a dime has been “redistributed”. Keep your promise Barack, spread that wealth around. Gas is almost $3/gal! Wait until Americans see their heating bill this winter.

Obama Lie #3 – Obama said he wanted a bill with shovel-ready civil construction projects on his desk to sign immediately upon taking office.

So far only $15 billion has been approved for about 4,000 projects and STILL unemployment in the heavy construction sector has continued to rise through the second quarter of 2009.

But Obama pledged $ 62 Billion over the next 10 years for more foreign aid! FOREIGN AID! Four times as much money given away to ungrateful foreigners while GM and Ford languish and America’s roads, bridges and ports crumble in massive disrepair.

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Anita, Birmingham, Alabama — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 14:19:27 GMT

On a personal note…

I am out here to voice my personal opinions/comments on news articles posted on this site, correct inaccurate statements with fact and debate those that I feel are offensive to our President and his policies. I don’t agree with everything that he does, but I do resperct the fact that he is trying to right something that has been severely damaged.

If I can send the President of the United States an e-mail with instructions and ideas on Health Care Reform and I see those ideas being acted upon…then I feel that I truly have contributed something to my countries progress. We finally have a president that values the opinions of the common people.

Each one of my collueges have something unique to offer and mine is as well and I am proud of that uniqueness, it's as it should be with each person.

This is a fun place to come out and comment opinions, vent and drive the GOP crazy and hopefully form “political” friendships and MSNBC and Frist Read are to be commended for allowing us the opportunity to have access to this site where “possibly” our opinions and concerns are read by the President and those that are in authority to correct and act on some of our concerns. We live in a great nation and it's the country that I love. Remember our servicemen, women and families everyone.

With that being said…I wish you all a happy and safe July 4th Holiday, I am headed to the beach later this afternoon.

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Ron Indiana` — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 14:20:12 GMT

Johnathan Flint MI: I appreciate your comments. You sound like a thoughtful person and I too need to read more closely what you have to say.

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Greg P. NW Indiana — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 14:22:42 GMT

Obama said pass my stimulus plan, or unemployment will go over 8%. What's unemployment at today Greg? Billy Norton, Texas (Sent Thursday, July 02, 2009 9:53 AM)
----------------------------------------------------
He's the president, what's he supposed to say? We're going to 12% unemployment people, grab anything and hold on!! You know what kind of turmoil that would create for industry? Unemployement would of been a self fulfilling prophecy by then.

Here's the jist...the stimulus will provide money to programs and create jobs as it's released...the more carefully they spend, the money actually goes toward job creation.

You wanna blame someone for the unemployment we have? Blame the banks who got us into this mess, and the people letting those who make 40K a year buy a 300K house (which to this day is STILL Happening). And the people who packaged (actually hid is a better word) bad debt in derivatives.

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Jilli, Houston, TX — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 14:26:08 GMT

The unemployment rate is no surprise - Pres. Obama said we'd reach 10%. It's going to take more than just a few months to dig us out of the bush financial disaster. The whining repubs sure are making use of their selective memories. And, as usual, they whine but offer no solutions. they're like barking dogs, they bark and bark and bark, and eventually you tune them out completely and you don't even hear them anymore.

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Pete - Albany, NY — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 14:26:50 GMT

So, for the Lynns, moons, no bo no joes, etc. out there...take a chill pill, read your Economics 101 book again, and think first before typing your dribble rhetoric nonsense!
Pat Huntington NY (Sent Thursday, July 02, 2009 10:02 AM)

------------------------------------------

You forget, Pat...they're all like W...not big on reading.

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Nashville_fan — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 14:27:28 GMT

To all those concerned about rising unemployment and who feel the stimulus hasn't done anything to improve this situation . . .

What do you think President Obama should do to create more jobs?

Also, too *winky, wink* do you really WANT President Obama to create more jobs, or do you want him to fail?

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

NOT TODAY....I'M SICK OF IT! — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 14:29:28 GMT

"We don't need radio ga ga and television goo goo to sift through the deception that is Barack Obama."

Fortunate Son (sent Thurs. July 2, 2009
************************************************
Do you ever listen to yourself? Take time out and read up on just what the former(thank God he's gone) president did in his eight years in office. And he was " a conservative"! Then, maybe you can see that dumb stuff "you( and your ilk)be posting on here is just that, ...dumb stuff. You only think about yourself and how to keep your wealth. We democrats are all on welfare and looking for a handout, so you say. Do you know how stupid and childish that sounds? That's just like me acusing all republicans of being bigots and greedy and stupid. Grow up and examine yourself!

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

jawillie Philadelphia, PA — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 14:30:23 GMT

>>> Remember Confucious once said it is better to remain silent and be thought a fool then to open your mouth and remove all doubt.
Drew, Cincinnati, Ohio (Sent Thursday, July 02, 2009 9:55 AM)
==========
I hate to correct a fellow libbie, but I believe that it was Abe Lincoln who said that.

http://jawillie.blog.com

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Nashville_fan — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 14:30:24 GMT

Dear IntheMiddle, TX:

You speak of "payback" and Republicans being "disrespected", and running with the "Big Dogs", but not a word about how you, or those you support, will make things better for America.

You are a little self absorbed, no?

Here's hoping you let off enough steam to keep you from shooting someone over the weekend.

Mercy.

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Truth Be Told — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 14:33:00 GMT

How's that Obama thing working out now for you liberals out there in political fantasy land?
He sides with dictators and drug lords in South America, the economy would be mess, unemployment would be rising, 401K's down, the cap and trade joke, his healthcare plan would be a train wreck if inacted, Sotomayor polling would be like his, taking a nose dive and the DNC would be going down with his ship Meanwhile Russia, China and N. Korea laughs at us.
The ACORN community organizer sure turned out to be just another democrat empty suit.

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Chris - IL — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 14:33:28 GMT

Jonathan Flint, MI (Sent Thursday, July 02, 2009 10:00 AM)
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I appreciate your intelligent questions and debate, versus some of the other blind rhetoric we see on so many of these posts.

I don't think the stimulus spending was meant to be "sustainable." It was meant to help "ease the pain" of the housing bubble bursting and the banking system near collapse. By the time the stimulus spending nears completion, the economy should have naturally recovered from the housing and banking problems and we should have robust growth.

I too am troubled by the deficit. But I'm of the belief that trying to address the deficit, rather than stimulate a very depressed economy is not the right thing to do at this time. But as the economy gets back on track toward recovery, then President Obama needs to address the deficit and debt.

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jawillie Philadelphia, PA (Sent Thursday, July 02, 2009 9:59 AM)
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What's great about this country:
Voting is a right afforded to everyone without the fear of violence or reprisal for not backing the people in party. Every time we have an administration change after an election, it takes place with cooperation and coordination. That helps make this the greatest country in the world!

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Jeff Gollin, Holmdel, NJ — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 14:34:13 GMT

Would it be possible for you to create a "side thread" (working title: "The Zoo" "The Sandbox" or better yet, "Jabbering Monkeys") and move all the petty tit for tat commentary you get here over to that thread so we don't have to wade through all the useless chatter?

Over there at the newly created thread, partisans could then trade hateful adolescent barbs to their hearts content.

To put things in perspective, the new administration inherited an economy that, not only had hemmoraged 3.1 million jobs, but continued on an accelerated downward glide-path that could quite possibly have seen American workers back on street corners selling apples.

From the gitgo, the Obama administration warned that "things would get worse before they get better" and also cautioned that a reversal in job losses might lag a positive change in other economic indicators by at least 6-months. There are positive indications that the economy is righting itself and that at least job losses are no longer in free-fall.

If the GOP wants to salvage its brand, it would be well-advised not to lob petty barbs blaming everything but the weather on the Obama administration.

There is a constuctive role the party could play; most specifically to (a) support Obama policies which, in practicality, make sense and then (b) hold the administration's feet to the fire as to how they're implementing those policies (i.e. well enough, fast enough).

But to just nay-say is ridiculous. Plus - it won't work.

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

jawillie Philadelphia, PA — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 14:34:54 GMT

>>>FR you need to stop censoring remarks everytime someone responds to these liberal rants. You let these idiots constantly disrespect Republicans but you sparingly post the response.
IntheMiddle, TX (Sent Thursday, July 02, 2009 10:17 AM)
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And yet your PTSD induced rants always seem to get through. If you don't like the censorship, then go over to the FOX News site. Otherwise, take your meds and DEAL WITH IT!

http://jawillie.blog.com

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Dennis, Columbus, Ohio — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 14:36:11 GMT

There has only been a small portion of the 787 Billion dollar stimulus plan. As more gets released, more jobs will be created.
Greg P. NW Indiana
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You are kidding yourself. Just admit the stimulus is a failure, Joe Biden did.
Tim, ATL (Sent Thursday, July 02, 2009 10:01 AM)
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Actually only $53 billion has been spent.
That is less than 7%.

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Jeff Evanston IL. — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 14:36:17 GMT

Where was all this out sage back in 1982 when the unemployment rate was just as high, oha i know there was no out rage because ronald wilson reagan was president, the great american president.
the president that did not give a dam that millions of people were thrown out of work on his watch!!because of the tax cuts he gave to his rich buddys who in turn took there money and invested it in asia and europe. where was the out rage when GWB lost 3.1 million jobs in his last year of office, president obama, told us this was going to happen that the job losses were not going to ease till late 2009. remember he said late 2009,
so as you ronald reagan and george bush lovers leave these comments lets remember, your full of shit!!!!

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

B, La. — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 14:37:52 GMT

Jonathan Flint, MI-
You make the most sense of anyone posting on this board. Thank you for your comments!

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

You have to love made up data — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 14:38:40 GMT

FRead -- This Washington Post piece has a fascinating take on why Norm Coleman lost to Al Franken:

He lost because Obama was runniing and the clown Franken edged by using Obama's coattails. Coleman also started acting and talking like a liberal, so the voters in MN didn't see any difference between him and Franken. MN also likes to elect clowns to office, see Jesse Ventura for details. If the election was reheld today, Coleman would win with 60% of the vote.
James, Spring Grove MN (Sent Thursday, July 02, 2009 9:36 AM)
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Oh please, stop making up stuff. Do you really think Coleman would get 60% of the vote after he tied up a Senate seat for almost 8 months in ridiculous challenges and court battles?

I am not sure whether you need to increase your dosage, or decrease it.

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Greg P. NW Indiana — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 14:43:33 GMT

And just how much money did Bush taqke out of YOUR pocket???? Thats what I thought.......

IntheMiddle, TX (Sent Thursday, July 02, 2009 10:17 AM)

Well, how much market value/wealth has america lost since he destroyed the country?? My guess is 3-4 trillion on top of the 5.5-6 trillion in added debt that he created.

All for a payoff of 1.8 trillion in tax cuts, mostly to the wealthy.

So alot...the cost was great.

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Tim Stocken, Highland Lakes, NJ — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 14:43:41 GMT

I'm a bit confused here. President Obama repeatedly said in his first month that the economy was worse than expected and that it would fall even more before recovery would begin. He expressed hope that unemployment would be capped at eight percent but that reaching 10% was a possibility. Opponents complained that the president was spreading too much doom and was just making excuses because his plan would not work.
Now as we approach 10% I see the jobless numbers falling and I wonder which republican complaint we should recall, that the president was spreading doom, or that he was not honest about how bad unemployment would get. You can't have it both ways. When things do improve - and we all know they will - Lush and the boys will claim they predicted a correction all along.

Last night while surfing, I stopped at CBS around 11:10 pm in the middle of a story about an army translator by the name of Choi(?) who had somehow been outed and thus discharged from the army. This guy was an expert in Arabic, something we are seriously in need of. Don't ask don't tell is hurting far more than the gay community folks. This is a matter of national security.

I like the MTP debate going on here with Eric, Feisty, Cindy and others. I guess we have to pick from inside the box, or my choice would be Charlie Rose. I'd like to see Chuck Todd cover for a week, just to get a taste, but David Gregory has got to go. We already have too many from the right at the NBC family and to hear him berate David Axelrod last week while making like Larry King with Romney and Graham made me scream. Graham did a bit of self policing out of embarrassment by saying the president represented moral family values as well as anyone in Washington. I can't yell like that on Sunday mornings. I live in a quiet, conservative neighborhood and I'm already in the doghouse for not being in church...

Happy holiday, folks...

First thoughts: Unemployment at 9.5%

Pat Huntington NY — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 14:45:13 GMT

Oh, and unemployment is still less than it was at its peak during the Reagan administration! It took Reagan quite a while to get that number back down, so, we should give Obama the same courtesy.

What's good for Reagan, is good for Obama!