I think it is safe to say McCain's efforts backfired on him. He should been against the Great Bailout of 2008 with all that pork loaded in the bill. Now the polls are trending against him. But last night was Sarah's and she was just flat out wonderful.
Last night, all my fears were erased and the Sarah Palin I have been following for the last year returned. She spoke directly to the people, went right past the pundits, critics, Washington and Coast Elites. With her performance last night, she planted a stake in the ground for the re-birth of the conservative movement, no matter the outcome of the election in 2008.
She was positive, jabbing, on message, and down right appealing. She made a connection with viewers, and appealed to them. It is quite funny how the media makes fun of her language and accent. Perhaps they should get out from behind the computers in DC, NY, San Francisco, etc and take a drive to 'Any Town USA'. She is ONE of us.
She had a lot riding on this debate. She clearly had stumbled and was being tied down by McCain handlers. She broke those chains last night. Her future is bright. We will see a lot of Sarah Palin in the coming months and yes years ahead.
McCain may not want to take on his opponents, but Sarah has shown, you MUST and you can do it with grace and style.
Even if McCain does not aggressively go after victory this November, Sarah Palin is now on the national scene.
I look forward to seeing her on the trail, taking the conservative message to the people.
The best quote about the evening can be summed by this post on Hugh Hewitt blog:
" ... the defining moment of the debate was when a young governor from a remote, sparsely populated state strode confidently across the national stage, stuck out her hand for a firm handshake, looked a silver-haired senator of 36 years' tenure squarely in the eye, and said: "Nice to meet you. Hey, can I call you Joe?"
At that moment, the champagne bubble of the elites popped. For millions of viewers (but almost no national pundits), the juxtaposition telegraphed a clear message: 'She's not one of them, she's one of us. But she isn't awed by him. She's not afraid.' "
http://hughhewitt.townhall.com/blog
It MAY be too late for John McCain, but Sarah has MUCH left to do....
Friday, October 3, 2008
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
McCain Gamble - Will It Backfire?
Well, McCain really has made a mess of this election today. He decided to go to Washington DC to work with the Congress and President and Treasury to wrap a deal to help stave off a fiscal nightmare for the country. In doing so, he has suspended his campaign - all ads, fundraising, and debate scheduled for this Friday.
Was it the right move? It was classic McCain, I give him that. He feels this is the RIGHT decision. I respect that. You have to respect that he feels it is THAT serious for him and the country. The flat out stupid statements that it was a 'political' maneuver; he wasn't prepared for the debates, or he was trailing in the polls, just amaze me. If anything, this could really hurt him with the election, may even cost him it. People who hate him, will attack him, saying he can't multi-task. Those who love him will say it was political courage.
I am in the middle. I respect him for the bold move, but I think he shot himself in the foot. The media will SAVAGE him. Will it work? Time will tell. McCain was proved right by basically standing ALONG supporting the surge, and we know how that is working today.
Is there enough time to turn it around? We shall see.
But, if this fiscal crisis is as important as they are saying, and predicting a DEPRESSION...shouldn't our elected officials be there in Washington DC working to find an answer? Doesn't Obama making 'speeches' and campaign ads while we are all on the brink of economic destruction look out of touch?
I just don't know....but we have really hit a crazy time in our nation's history. We could go either way. At this time, do you want someone like McCain or Obama? For me, the answer is clear....but for those who don't follow these events as closely, I think we know which way they are leaning.
Was it the right move? It was classic McCain, I give him that. He feels this is the RIGHT decision. I respect that. You have to respect that he feels it is THAT serious for him and the country. The flat out stupid statements that it was a 'political' maneuver; he wasn't prepared for the debates, or he was trailing in the polls, just amaze me. If anything, this could really hurt him with the election, may even cost him it. People who hate him, will attack him, saying he can't multi-task. Those who love him will say it was political courage.
I am in the middle. I respect him for the bold move, but I think he shot himself in the foot. The media will SAVAGE him. Will it work? Time will tell. McCain was proved right by basically standing ALONG supporting the surge, and we know how that is working today.
Is there enough time to turn it around? We shall see.
But, if this fiscal crisis is as important as they are saying, and predicting a DEPRESSION...shouldn't our elected officials be there in Washington DC working to find an answer? Doesn't Obama making 'speeches' and campaign ads while we are all on the brink of economic destruction look out of touch?
I just don't know....but we have really hit a crazy time in our nation's history. We could go either way. At this time, do you want someone like McCain or Obama? For me, the answer is clear....but for those who don't follow these events as closely, I think we know which way they are leaning.
Friday, September 19, 2008
Rough Waters Ahead
Hard to believe how quickly our economy and nation has lurched toward socialism. The Fed and Treasury have agreed to create a NEW funding agency to buy the unvalued mortgages that the investments companies now hold. They are estimating the cost to you and me, Joe Taxpayer, will be $1 trillion dollars.
Since when did we as a country look to government to bail out our industries? I know it has been done in the past, but this is unprecedented. The amount and scale of the government intervention is down right scary.
What started this entire mess? Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae. Both of these 'quasi' governmental agencies pushed and coerced banks into making terrible loans to people who they KNEW could not afford to pay them. Then they sold them to investment firms, who in turn sold them to other investment banks. The head of these 'agencies' left after making over $90 MILLION in 6 years. He is now advising Obama's presidential campaign. Another VP from these failed institutions was going to head up Obama's VP selection process. These 'agencies' were tools of the Democrats in Congress and back to President Bill Clinton to FORCE the financial industry to loan to those who couldn't afford the loans in the first place. If they did not, then would have the force of the Federal Government on the back and were being 'racist' in their denials of loans.
Not that the Republicans are much better. Many killed the Federal Housing Act of 2005 that John McCain went to the floor to support. Three years ago he told the Senate if they did not put into effect any enforcement of this issue, we would face financial turmoil. Amazing how RIGHT he was. However, those Republicans who got money and this administration looked the other way. When the housing market was booming, no one cared about the LONG term implications.
This is one terrible situation created by poor ethics, down right greed, politicans exhtorting the financial industry and down right aweful decisions.
We are in store for a very very rough ride. Even with this latest bailout, the cost to us is hard to wrap the brain around. The governmental debt is mounting, and someone will have to BAIL them out soon.
Hold onto your wallets.
Since when did we as a country look to government to bail out our industries? I know it has been done in the past, but this is unprecedented. The amount and scale of the government intervention is down right scary.
What started this entire mess? Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae. Both of these 'quasi' governmental agencies pushed and coerced banks into making terrible loans to people who they KNEW could not afford to pay them. Then they sold them to investment firms, who in turn sold them to other investment banks. The head of these 'agencies' left after making over $90 MILLION in 6 years. He is now advising Obama's presidential campaign. Another VP from these failed institutions was going to head up Obama's VP selection process. These 'agencies' were tools of the Democrats in Congress and back to President Bill Clinton to FORCE the financial industry to loan to those who couldn't afford the loans in the first place. If they did not, then would have the force of the Federal Government on the back and were being 'racist' in their denials of loans.
Not that the Republicans are much better. Many killed the Federal Housing Act of 2005 that John McCain went to the floor to support. Three years ago he told the Senate if they did not put into effect any enforcement of this issue, we would face financial turmoil. Amazing how RIGHT he was. However, those Republicans who got money and this administration looked the other way. When the housing market was booming, no one cared about the LONG term implications.
This is one terrible situation created by poor ethics, down right greed, politicans exhtorting the financial industry and down right aweful decisions.
We are in store for a very very rough ride. Even with this latest bailout, the cost to us is hard to wrap the brain around. The governmental debt is mounting, and someone will have to BAIL them out soon.
Hold onto your wallets.
Friday, September 5, 2008
Palin....Can She Make the Difference?
Sarah Palin has energized the Republicans. The Party has new life. But let's be honest, it is NOT fully cleaned of those corrupt forces. We need to get her to the White House. Her own party in Alaska doesn't REALLY like her. Obviously the Democrats fear what the result of her winning in November could mean. There is a lot at stake.
McCain still gives me reservations, but I come back to the fact of what I know about Sarah Palin. If he goes too far off the track, she WILL speak her mind. She will let be known that she does NOT agree. Sarah Palin will keep McCain focused and grounded.
The Republican Party has for SO long been looking for new and fresh faces and idea. Sarah is like us. She works extremely hard, works at having a wonderful family - no matter how we all sometimes fall off the track sometimes. She isn't one of the salon/latte drinking brains with a pedigree from Harvard or Yale. She just wants to make a difference. Dont' we already have too many intellectuals in Washington DC?
If you have not had a chance, please see her first major speech here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vKgNrb3baNM&eurl=http://www.foundingbloggers.com/wordpress/
It was just flat out awesome. Her line about having an advocate for children with special needs brought me to tears. For the first time we have a REAL conservative who brings that unique perspective that only a woman can.
She was born around the time Reagan gave his famous Barry Goldwater speech in 1964. Some are making grand comparisons between the two. I can honestly say, there has been no one to this point that has stirred me in a similar fashion as Ronald Reagan. She has a great deal of work to do yet, but the potential is there.
I just hope a loss in November isn't fatal to her career. There are some country club Republicans and operatives who want to destroy and are actively undermining her. Funny thing is much of the rumors and lies where involving her own Party in Alaska. And you wonder why she fought corruption there?
The MSM is just angered they didn't get to 'vet' her like they did with all the other candidates. So they will work to destroy her.
I predict to you, if the Republicans want to recapture the Reagan years and 1994, Sarah Palin has to be involved. Also watch for Bobby Jindal Governor of Louisiana. My dream ticket is Palin/Jindal 2012.
McCain is the past. But you have to give him a tremendous amount of credit - he has given his party and the nation the future. Pat Buchanan said it best: "John McCain just took 2 shots of whiskey and landed his jet on the Golden Gate Bridge" when referring to the chance he took with picking Sarah Palin. Couldn't have said it any better.
McCain still gives me reservations, but I come back to the fact of what I know about Sarah Palin. If he goes too far off the track, she WILL speak her mind. She will let be known that she does NOT agree. Sarah Palin will keep McCain focused and grounded.
The Republican Party has for SO long been looking for new and fresh faces and idea. Sarah is like us. She works extremely hard, works at having a wonderful family - no matter how we all sometimes fall off the track sometimes. She isn't one of the salon/latte drinking brains with a pedigree from Harvard or Yale. She just wants to make a difference. Dont' we already have too many intellectuals in Washington DC?
If you have not had a chance, please see her first major speech here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vKgNrb3baNM&eurl=http://www.foundingbloggers.com/wordpress/
It was just flat out awesome. Her line about having an advocate for children with special needs brought me to tears. For the first time we have a REAL conservative who brings that unique perspective that only a woman can.
She was born around the time Reagan gave his famous Barry Goldwater speech in 1964. Some are making grand comparisons between the two. I can honestly say, there has been no one to this point that has stirred me in a similar fashion as Ronald Reagan. She has a great deal of work to do yet, but the potential is there.
I just hope a loss in November isn't fatal to her career. There are some country club Republicans and operatives who want to destroy and are actively undermining her. Funny thing is much of the rumors and lies where involving her own Party in Alaska. And you wonder why she fought corruption there?
The MSM is just angered they didn't get to 'vet' her like they did with all the other candidates. So they will work to destroy her.
I predict to you, if the Republicans want to recapture the Reagan years and 1994, Sarah Palin has to be involved. Also watch for Bobby Jindal Governor of Louisiana. My dream ticket is Palin/Jindal 2012.
McCain is the past. But you have to give him a tremendous amount of credit - he has given his party and the nation the future. Pat Buchanan said it best: "John McCain just took 2 shots of whiskey and landed his jet on the Golden Gate Bridge" when referring to the chance he took with picking Sarah Palin. Couldn't have said it any better.
Sunday, August 31, 2008
SARAH PALIN - The New Face of Conservatism
I have been following Sarah Palin and hoping that she would find a national spotlight with the Conservative movement for months. Thanks to another blog www.palinforvp.blogspot.com, I got to really know her record and background.
Let me also say, as you can tell from prior posts, I am NOT a big McCain enthusiast at all. But with this nomination, I am 100% behind him. He has shown me, despite sometimes attacking us 'Conservatives', he really is a maverick and knows we are important. Sarah Palin will become the next leader of the Republican Party and we can thank John McCain for that. Sarah is going to bring the party back to life!
She, like Bobby Jindal, is the new fresh face of Conservatism. The Republican Party was and still is dying in many ways. McCain taking a shot with a Sarah Palin is a risk, but one worth taking. No matter what happens, she becomes the new face of the Republican Party going forward.
Let's take a moment to look at her record. She served in local government as council member and mayor. Then ran a primary against a sitting entrenched REPUBLICAN Governor who was corrupt. She lost in a very close race. The Governor decided the best way to handle this 'reformer' was to give her a plum job. She served on Alaska's Gas and Pipeline Commission and sat next to the head of the Republican Party for the State. She was also on a Ethics Commission. She shortly thereafter resigned from the Gas Commission and publicly cited the high corruption of her party and the government leaders. It was her mission to rout out those involved and change the way 'good ole Alaska' politics was working.
She ran again, defeated the sitting Governor. Many of the people she went after went to jail or were convicted of crimes and wrong doing.
She has been to Iraq to visit her national guard troops serving there. She is the Commander in Chief of the State's National Guard. She recently completed a Transcontinental Natural Gas Pipeline Agreement with Canada to provide construction of a new pipeline to bring much needed resources to the lower 48.
She pushed major ethics reforms. She has used her veto pen. And most recently, she supported her LT Governor in his successful primary against a sitting Republican Congressman who has been linked to the Ted Stevens scandal. Sarah Palin KNOWS how to get things done.
The vicious and down right nasty attacks have been constant for over 5 days now. All of them on the personal front. They can't challenger her on what she did as governor. The Main Stream Media (MSM) and the democrats are down right fearful of her being elected. They take women as a one issue constituency, and having someone like Palin elected nationally would destroy their ability to frame issues and bash those who don't fit their mold of what a person should be.
We have not seen this type of attack on a person since Clarence Thomas. Justice Thomas also broke the stereotype that the Left and the MSM wanted to make sure never changed. All Blacks are liberal, think the same, and if you didn't you were an Uncle Tom. He still is abused about his views to this day almost a decade later despite an outstanding career as a jurist. Sarah Palin will meet the same fate unless we the PEOPLE take an active role.
They have brought up her husband's DWI from over TWENTY years ago when he was 22. Yet, Obama, the man would be President, admits in own words he used COCAINE when he was in 20s. You tell me which is more relevant if we are going after a person's character? How many reporters are going over every detail of Sarah Palin and her family at this very moment? How many New York Times reporters in 19 months of this campaign have been researching Obama's past with Randy Ayers- an admitted terrorist who attempted to detonate bombs outside the Pentagon in the 1960s and to this DAY wishes he had done more? How about Obama's judgement to sit in a church for 10 years that spewed racist anti-American vitriol? Disagree with Palin on abortion or the 2nd Amendment? That is fair game. But to destroy a person's 17 year old daughter is over the line of any decency.
As a young person, seeing someone of her character out there, not afraid to take on this challenge in the face of whither attack and more to come over the next 60 days, I am very impressed. She is 44 and in the arena trying to make a real difference. You have to admire her courage and grit.
Sarah Palin is under heavy fire right now. But she is from the West. She built her career on her own - no bounce off a husband's political career, no following in prior family member's election and name. No she has become a success through hard work and determination. She has the pioneer western American spirit, something the MSM and far left can't understand.
I look forward to Sarah Palin's speech tomorrow night. I look forward to making the Left Wing's skin crawl as America gets to know the Governor of Alaska. McCain picked someone as far away from Washington as possible. I say well done...very well done. We have had enough of Washington as usual. McCain/Palin...REAL change.
Let me also say, as you can tell from prior posts, I am NOT a big McCain enthusiast at all. But with this nomination, I am 100% behind him. He has shown me, despite sometimes attacking us 'Conservatives', he really is a maverick and knows we are important. Sarah Palin will become the next leader of the Republican Party and we can thank John McCain for that. Sarah is going to bring the party back to life!
She, like Bobby Jindal, is the new fresh face of Conservatism. The Republican Party was and still is dying in many ways. McCain taking a shot with a Sarah Palin is a risk, but one worth taking. No matter what happens, she becomes the new face of the Republican Party going forward.
Let's take a moment to look at her record. She served in local government as council member and mayor. Then ran a primary against a sitting entrenched REPUBLICAN Governor who was corrupt. She lost in a very close race. The Governor decided the best way to handle this 'reformer' was to give her a plum job. She served on Alaska's Gas and Pipeline Commission and sat next to the head of the Republican Party for the State. She was also on a Ethics Commission. She shortly thereafter resigned from the Gas Commission and publicly cited the high corruption of her party and the government leaders. It was her mission to rout out those involved and change the way 'good ole Alaska' politics was working.
She ran again, defeated the sitting Governor. Many of the people she went after went to jail or were convicted of crimes and wrong doing.
She has been to Iraq to visit her national guard troops serving there. She is the Commander in Chief of the State's National Guard. She recently completed a Transcontinental Natural Gas Pipeline Agreement with Canada to provide construction of a new pipeline to bring much needed resources to the lower 48.
She pushed major ethics reforms. She has used her veto pen. And most recently, she supported her LT Governor in his successful primary against a sitting Republican Congressman who has been linked to the Ted Stevens scandal. Sarah Palin KNOWS how to get things done.
The vicious and down right nasty attacks have been constant for over 5 days now. All of them on the personal front. They can't challenger her on what she did as governor. The Main Stream Media (MSM) and the democrats are down right fearful of her being elected. They take women as a one issue constituency, and having someone like Palin elected nationally would destroy their ability to frame issues and bash those who don't fit their mold of what a person should be.
We have not seen this type of attack on a person since Clarence Thomas. Justice Thomas also broke the stereotype that the Left and the MSM wanted to make sure never changed. All Blacks are liberal, think the same, and if you didn't you were an Uncle Tom. He still is abused about his views to this day almost a decade later despite an outstanding career as a jurist. Sarah Palin will meet the same fate unless we the PEOPLE take an active role.
They have brought up her husband's DWI from over TWENTY years ago when he was 22. Yet, Obama, the man would be President, admits in own words he used COCAINE when he was in 20s. You tell me which is more relevant if we are going after a person's character? How many reporters are going over every detail of Sarah Palin and her family at this very moment? How many New York Times reporters in 19 months of this campaign have been researching Obama's past with Randy Ayers- an admitted terrorist who attempted to detonate bombs outside the Pentagon in the 1960s and to this DAY wishes he had done more? How about Obama's judgement to sit in a church for 10 years that spewed racist anti-American vitriol? Disagree with Palin on abortion or the 2nd Amendment? That is fair game. But to destroy a person's 17 year old daughter is over the line of any decency.
As a young person, seeing someone of her character out there, not afraid to take on this challenge in the face of whither attack and more to come over the next 60 days, I am very impressed. She is 44 and in the arena trying to make a real difference. You have to admire her courage and grit.
Sarah Palin is under heavy fire right now. But she is from the West. She built her career on her own - no bounce off a husband's political career, no following in prior family member's election and name. No she has become a success through hard work and determination. She has the pioneer western American spirit, something the MSM and far left can't understand.
I look forward to Sarah Palin's speech tomorrow night. I look forward to making the Left Wing's skin crawl as America gets to know the Governor of Alaska. McCain picked someone as far away from Washington as possible. I say well done...very well done. We have had enough of Washington as usual. McCain/Palin...REAL change.
Friday, May 16, 2008
So Long Good Friend...
Well, another terrible loss for the Republicans in a Special Election..this time, in the heart of Red Country - Mississippi!
Another Republican went down to defeat in a district that Bush won by 12 points. He lost to a CONSERVATIVE Democrat by 8 points. That is serious news.
The Dems are running 'conservative' candidates and the Republicans are running 'moderates' and getting their clocks cleaned.
The Party is about to self destruct come November 2008. This could be the end of the Republicans. If Obama wins, they will be out in the wilderness for decades, if they even remain as a viable political party.
The country is turning left and looking for BIG government answers.
Where are the Republicans? Where are the leaders? Who is branding the image? Who is out there explaining freedom, liberty, small government, low taxes, national defense? NO ONE. Where are the REpublicans in Congress? Where is their agenda? Where is their energy policy? Again, MIA. Just a pathetic terrible bunch.
In 1994, Republicans swept to victory on change, ideas, and promist to ACT. Just 10 principals - Contract with America. It was simple and it resonated.
McCain is now telling us he will allow Congress to question him on the floor of the House, similar to the Prime Minister of Great Britian. Newsflash Senator - WE ARE NOT A PARLIMENTARY SYSTEM! The Prime Minister IS a MEMBER of Parliment and SELECTED by the majority party. Our PRESIDENT is a SEPERATE but EQUAL BRANCH. IF (which is a BIG IF) he is elected, his role it to protect and defend his office. He has to ensure the power and influence of the Presidency. I really wonder if anyone in this Country gets a bit of education about the founding of nation.
There was a story when George Washington first became President. He went to the Senate Chamber to discuss a possible treaty with another nation...He left very shortly after and wrote 'I will never return to that place again'. Our founders would be SICK if they hear McCain lowering the Presidency to be questioned by the Congress. What a disgrace.
But this is the 'leader' of the Republican Party. He wants Cap and Trade, believes in MAN made global warming. Turning left, will not win you any votes. We already have 2 candidates on the left.
Here is a link to a great article by Peggy Noonan. One my favorite columnists. It isn't good news. But we have to regroup, start at the local level, train up-coming young conservative candidates, rebuild county organizations. The Dems are about three years ahead of us at this point. We have a lot of work to do.
http://online.wsj.com/article/declarations.html
Another Republican went down to defeat in a district that Bush won by 12 points. He lost to a CONSERVATIVE Democrat by 8 points. That is serious news.
The Dems are running 'conservative' candidates and the Republicans are running 'moderates' and getting their clocks cleaned.
The Party is about to self destruct come November 2008. This could be the end of the Republicans. If Obama wins, they will be out in the wilderness for decades, if they even remain as a viable political party.
The country is turning left and looking for BIG government answers.
Where are the Republicans? Where are the leaders? Who is branding the image? Who is out there explaining freedom, liberty, small government, low taxes, national defense? NO ONE. Where are the REpublicans in Congress? Where is their agenda? Where is their energy policy? Again, MIA. Just a pathetic terrible bunch.
In 1994, Republicans swept to victory on change, ideas, and promist to ACT. Just 10 principals - Contract with America. It was simple and it resonated.
McCain is now telling us he will allow Congress to question him on the floor of the House, similar to the Prime Minister of Great Britian. Newsflash Senator - WE ARE NOT A PARLIMENTARY SYSTEM! The Prime Minister IS a MEMBER of Parliment and SELECTED by the majority party. Our PRESIDENT is a SEPERATE but EQUAL BRANCH. IF (which is a BIG IF) he is elected, his role it to protect and defend his office. He has to ensure the power and influence of the Presidency. I really wonder if anyone in this Country gets a bit of education about the founding of nation.
There was a story when George Washington first became President. He went to the Senate Chamber to discuss a possible treaty with another nation...He left very shortly after and wrote 'I will never return to that place again'. Our founders would be SICK if they hear McCain lowering the Presidency to be questioned by the Congress. What a disgrace.
But this is the 'leader' of the Republican Party. He wants Cap and Trade, believes in MAN made global warming. Turning left, will not win you any votes. We already have 2 candidates on the left.
Here is a link to a great article by Peggy Noonan. One my favorite columnists. It isn't good news. But we have to regroup, start at the local level, train up-coming young conservative candidates, rebuild county organizations. The Dems are about three years ahead of us at this point. We have a lot of work to do.
http://online.wsj.com/article/declarations.html
Thursday, May 8, 2008
Oil and politics
Well, it was 1995, the Contract With America swept Republican reformers to control Congress for the first time in forty years the previous year. The Congress, acting to try and ensure we had a viable home energy source passed legislation to support drilling in ANWAR. Bill Clinton vetoed it. He and his party in Congress arguement - it would take 10 years to get the resource, we didn't need it, and we needed to 'conserve'. There was just not enough oil to make a difference. Well, here we are 13 years later. All projections were that ANWAR would produce 1 million barrles a DAY. Wouldn't it be nice if the US was PRODUCING 1 million barrels more of our OWN oil? I think it might just have made a bit of difference. Some other things to consider:
Since 1980 we have CUT our domestic oil production by 40%, while increasing need of foreign oil by 52%. (Caused by ohnerous environmental and government regulations)
The price per barrel when Clinton vetoed that legislation - $19
Price at the pump - $1.19 a gallon.
Amount of acreage that would be affected by drilling in ANWAR - 3,000. Total amount of the Preserve - 300 MILLION acres.
We can drill cleaner and more affectively without damaging the surrounding environment better then 30 years ago.
Can we please consider using our domestic resources so we can end our need to use dictators and terrorist oil fields? You can not conserve and still have economic growth, it just is not possible.
Some other interesting facts:
In the Gulf of Mexico alone - US territory - enough natural gas reserves to heat 120 million homes for 60 years.
Off our Coasts currently (where China and other nations drill right now) we have 120 BILLION barrels of oil - enough to run 60 million cars for over 60 years.
This is what we have right now that has been discovered and could be used. Energy independence anyone?
Oil is a political tool for socialist and communists in our government to create suffering. This suffering allows for them to blame some evil corporation. And that leads to VOTES. It is an attack on good old CAPITALISM .... Plain and simple. Oil gives us the economic engine to invest and grow the economy, leading to a better quality of life and better wages for everyone. The people who have this agenda need to create a dependent class to ensure their elected power.
We must conserve and be concerned about the environment. But let's be honest, oil drives our economic engine. We NEED to run our cars, businesses, and lives. We had a choice 10 years ago and it is costing us dearly now. We need a vision for the future. Use our resources HERE, while finding a viable alternative fuel for down the road. Stop lying to the American people. No windmill or solar panel will replace oil in the near future. There is plenty, is NOT a supply problem. It is a leadership problem. ENOUGH is ENOUGH.
Since 1980 we have CUT our domestic oil production by 40%, while increasing need of foreign oil by 52%. (Caused by ohnerous environmental and government regulations)
The price per barrel when Clinton vetoed that legislation - $19
Price at the pump - $1.19 a gallon.
Amount of acreage that would be affected by drilling in ANWAR - 3,000. Total amount of the Preserve - 300 MILLION acres.
We can drill cleaner and more affectively without damaging the surrounding environment better then 30 years ago.
Can we please consider using our domestic resources so we can end our need to use dictators and terrorist oil fields? You can not conserve and still have economic growth, it just is not possible.
Some other interesting facts:
In the Gulf of Mexico alone - US territory - enough natural gas reserves to heat 120 million homes for 60 years.
Off our Coasts currently (where China and other nations drill right now) we have 120 BILLION barrels of oil - enough to run 60 million cars for over 60 years.
This is what we have right now that has been discovered and could be used. Energy independence anyone?
Oil is a political tool for socialist and communists in our government to create suffering. This suffering allows for them to blame some evil corporation. And that leads to VOTES. It is an attack on good old CAPITALISM .... Plain and simple. Oil gives us the economic engine to invest and grow the economy, leading to a better quality of life and better wages for everyone. The people who have this agenda need to create a dependent class to ensure their elected power.
We must conserve and be concerned about the environment. But let's be honest, oil drives our economic engine. We NEED to run our cars, businesses, and lives. We had a choice 10 years ago and it is costing us dearly now. We need a vision for the future. Use our resources HERE, while finding a viable alternative fuel for down the road. Stop lying to the American people. No windmill or solar panel will replace oil in the near future. There is plenty, is NOT a supply problem. It is a leadership problem. ENOUGH is ENOUGH.
Monday, April 21, 2008
Divine Providence
I was visiting my family this past weekend. My father and I had the chance to catch some of "John Adams" on HBO. If you haven't seen it, do yourself a great favor and start to watch it. It was tremendous.
The thing that kept coming back to me was the United States was TRULY blessed by God. Clearly, we should not have succeeded to form an independent nation as we did in the 1780s. All signs pointed to total and complete failure. But with some amazing men who gave everything they had for the 'cause' of Liberty, we are still standing today.
Clearly, Divine Providence has blessed this nation and I hope still does. There are still great men and GREAT women who hold the values of the Revolution in great regard.
The other great value of the show was to provide insight into the relationship John Adams had with his wife. She was his greatest friend and more than that his confidant and advisor.
I wish our educational system spent more time on really brining our Founders to life and explain just how much they put on the line for all us. We were lucky then as we are today to have those willing to sacrifice.
It makes the words "God Bless America" mean so much more than just another phrase.
The thing that kept coming back to me was the United States was TRULY blessed by God. Clearly, we should not have succeeded to form an independent nation as we did in the 1780s. All signs pointed to total and complete failure. But with some amazing men who gave everything they had for the 'cause' of Liberty, we are still standing today.
Clearly, Divine Providence has blessed this nation and I hope still does. There are still great men and GREAT women who hold the values of the Revolution in great regard.
The other great value of the show was to provide insight into the relationship John Adams had with his wife. She was his greatest friend and more than that his confidant and advisor.
I wish our educational system spent more time on really brining our Founders to life and explain just how much they put on the line for all us. We were lucky then as we are today to have those willing to sacrifice.
It makes the words "God Bless America" mean so much more than just another phrase.
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
American Exceptionalism
American Exceptionalism was celebrated today at the White House. The United States of America's guest, Pope Benedict, gave a speech about what America has meant to the world. It was truly inspiring and had a great deal of meaning.
We are the greatest nation on earth because of our heavinly father has blessed us and our people will sacrifice for freedom whenever asked. It was great. Then the United States Army Chorus sang the Battle Hymn of the Republic...just flat out amazing and whenever I hear that song, I always get goose bumps.
In a time of such negative media spin about all that is wrong with America and how bad we are and how bad everyone is doing, it was nice to for once, celebrate the good and the great about our country.
If you can find a link to it, take a read. You won't be disappointed.
God Bless the United States of America and the military personnel putting their lives on the line for us.
Here is a copy of the text via www.wcbstv.org:
Mr. President,
Thank you for your gracious words of welcome on behalf of the people of the United States of America. I deeply appreciate your invitation to visit this great country. My visit coincides with an important moment in the life of the Catholic community in America: the celebration of the two-hundredth anniversary of the elevation of the country's first Diocese – Baltimore – to a metropolitan Archdiocese, and the establishment of the Sees of New York, Boston, Philadelphia and Louisville. Yet I am happy to be here as a guest of all Americans. I come as a friend, a preacher of the Gospel and one with great respect for this vast pluralistic society. America's Catholics have made, and continue to make, an excellent contribution to the life of their country. As I begin my visit, I trust that my presence will be a source of renewal and hope for the Church in the United States, and strengthen the resolve of Catholics to contribute ever more responsibly to the life of this nation, of which they are proud to be citizens.
From the dawn of the Republic, America's quest for freedom has been guided by the conviction that the principles governing political and social life are intimately linked to a moral order based on the dominion of God the Creator. The framers of this nation's founding documents drew upon this conviction when they proclaimed the "self-evident truth" that all men are created equal and endowed with inalienable rights grounded in the laws of nature and of nature's God. The course of American history demonstrates the difficulties, the struggles, and the great intellectual and moral resolve which were demanded to shape a society which faithfully embodied these noble principles. In that process, which forged the soul of the nation, religious beliefs were a constant inspiration and driving force, as for example in the struggle against slavery and in the civil rights movement. In our time too, particularly in moments of crisis, Americans continue to find their strength in a commitment to this patrimony of shared ideals and aspirations.
In the next few days, I look forward to meeting not only with America's Catholic community, but with other Christian communities and representatives of the many religious traditions present in this country. Historically, not only Catholics, but all believers have found here the freedom to worship God in accordance with the dictates of their conscience, while at the same time being accepted as part of a commonwealth in which each individual and group can make its voice heard. As the nation faces the increasingly complex political and ethical issues of our time, I am confident that the American people will find in their religious beliefs a precious source of insight and an inspiration to pursue reasoned, responsible and respectful dialogue in the effort to build a more humane and free society.
Freedom is not only a gift, but also a summons to personal responsibility. Americans know this from experience – almost every town in this country has its monuments honoring those who sacrificed their lives in defense of freedom, both at home and abroad. The preservation of freedom calls for the cultivation of virtue, self-discipline, sacrifice for the common good and a sense of responsibility towards the less fortunate. It also demands the courage to engage in civic life and to bring one's deepest beliefs and values to reasoned public debate. In a word, freedom is ever new. It is a challenge held out to each generation, and it must constantly be won over for the cause of good (cf. Spe Salvi, 24). Few have understood this as clearly as the late Pope John Paul II. In reflecting on the spiritual victory of freedom over totalitarianism in his native Poland and in eastern Europe, he reminded us that history shows, time and again, that "in a world without truth, freedom loses its foundation", and a democracy without values can lose its very soul (cf. Centesimus Annus, 46). Those prophetic words in some sense echo the conviction of President Washington, expressed in his Farewell Address, that religion and morality represent "indispensable supports" of political prosperity.
The Church, for her part, wishes to contribute to building a world ever more worthy of the human person, created in the image and likeness of God (cf. Gen 1:26-27). She is convinced that faith sheds new light on all things, and that the Gospel reveals the noble vocation and sublime destiny of every man and woman (cf. Gaudium et Spes, 10). Faith also gives us the strength to respond to our high calling, and the hope that inspires us to work for an ever more just and fraternal society. Democracy can only flourish, as your founding fathers realized, when political leaders and those whom they represent are guided by truth and bring the wisdom born of firm moral principle to decisions affecting the life and future of the nation.
For well over a century, the United States of America has played an important role in the international community. On Friday, God willing, I will have the honor of addressing the United Nations Organization, where I hope to encourage the efforts under way to make that institution an ever more effective voice for the legitimate aspirations of all the world's peoples. On this, the sixtieth anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the need for global solidarity is as urgent as ever, if all people are to live in a way worthy of their dignity – as brothers and sisters dwelling in the same house and around that table which God's bounty has set for all his children. America has traditionally shown herself generous in meeting immediate human needs, fostering development and offering relief to the victims of natural catastrophes. I am confident that this concern for the greater human family will continue to find expression in support for the patient efforts of international diplomacy to resolve conflicts and promote progress. In this way, coming generations will be able to live in a world where truth, freedom and justice can flourish – a world where the God-given dignity and rights of every man, woman and child are cherished, protected and effectively advanced.
Mr. President, dear friends: as I begin my visit to the United States, I express once more my gratitude for your invitation, my joy to be in your midst, and my fervent prayers that Almighty God will confirm this nation and its people in the ways of justice, prosperity and peace. God bless America!
(© MMVIII, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
We are the greatest nation on earth because of our heavinly father has blessed us and our people will sacrifice for freedom whenever asked. It was great. Then the United States Army Chorus sang the Battle Hymn of the Republic...just flat out amazing and whenever I hear that song, I always get goose bumps.
In a time of such negative media spin about all that is wrong with America and how bad we are and how bad everyone is doing, it was nice to for once, celebrate the good and the great about our country.
If you can find a link to it, take a read. You won't be disappointed.
God Bless the United States of America and the military personnel putting their lives on the line for us.
Here is a copy of the text via www.wcbstv.org:
Mr. President,
Thank you for your gracious words of welcome on behalf of the people of the United States of America. I deeply appreciate your invitation to visit this great country. My visit coincides with an important moment in the life of the Catholic community in America: the celebration of the two-hundredth anniversary of the elevation of the country's first Diocese – Baltimore – to a metropolitan Archdiocese, and the establishment of the Sees of New York, Boston, Philadelphia and Louisville. Yet I am happy to be here as a guest of all Americans. I come as a friend, a preacher of the Gospel and one with great respect for this vast pluralistic society. America's Catholics have made, and continue to make, an excellent contribution to the life of their country. As I begin my visit, I trust that my presence will be a source of renewal and hope for the Church in the United States, and strengthen the resolve of Catholics to contribute ever more responsibly to the life of this nation, of which they are proud to be citizens.
From the dawn of the Republic, America's quest for freedom has been guided by the conviction that the principles governing political and social life are intimately linked to a moral order based on the dominion of God the Creator. The framers of this nation's founding documents drew upon this conviction when they proclaimed the "self-evident truth" that all men are created equal and endowed with inalienable rights grounded in the laws of nature and of nature's God. The course of American history demonstrates the difficulties, the struggles, and the great intellectual and moral resolve which were demanded to shape a society which faithfully embodied these noble principles. In that process, which forged the soul of the nation, religious beliefs were a constant inspiration and driving force, as for example in the struggle against slavery and in the civil rights movement. In our time too, particularly in moments of crisis, Americans continue to find their strength in a commitment to this patrimony of shared ideals and aspirations.
In the next few days, I look forward to meeting not only with America's Catholic community, but with other Christian communities and representatives of the many religious traditions present in this country. Historically, not only Catholics, but all believers have found here the freedom to worship God in accordance with the dictates of their conscience, while at the same time being accepted as part of a commonwealth in which each individual and group can make its voice heard. As the nation faces the increasingly complex political and ethical issues of our time, I am confident that the American people will find in their religious beliefs a precious source of insight and an inspiration to pursue reasoned, responsible and respectful dialogue in the effort to build a more humane and free society.
Freedom is not only a gift, but also a summons to personal responsibility. Americans know this from experience – almost every town in this country has its monuments honoring those who sacrificed their lives in defense of freedom, both at home and abroad. The preservation of freedom calls for the cultivation of virtue, self-discipline, sacrifice for the common good and a sense of responsibility towards the less fortunate. It also demands the courage to engage in civic life and to bring one's deepest beliefs and values to reasoned public debate. In a word, freedom is ever new. It is a challenge held out to each generation, and it must constantly be won over for the cause of good (cf. Spe Salvi, 24). Few have understood this as clearly as the late Pope John Paul II. In reflecting on the spiritual victory of freedom over totalitarianism in his native Poland and in eastern Europe, he reminded us that history shows, time and again, that "in a world without truth, freedom loses its foundation", and a democracy without values can lose its very soul (cf. Centesimus Annus, 46). Those prophetic words in some sense echo the conviction of President Washington, expressed in his Farewell Address, that religion and morality represent "indispensable supports" of political prosperity.
The Church, for her part, wishes to contribute to building a world ever more worthy of the human person, created in the image and likeness of God (cf. Gen 1:26-27). She is convinced that faith sheds new light on all things, and that the Gospel reveals the noble vocation and sublime destiny of every man and woman (cf. Gaudium et Spes, 10). Faith also gives us the strength to respond to our high calling, and the hope that inspires us to work for an ever more just and fraternal society. Democracy can only flourish, as your founding fathers realized, when political leaders and those whom they represent are guided by truth and bring the wisdom born of firm moral principle to decisions affecting the life and future of the nation.
For well over a century, the United States of America has played an important role in the international community. On Friday, God willing, I will have the honor of addressing the United Nations Organization, where I hope to encourage the efforts under way to make that institution an ever more effective voice for the legitimate aspirations of all the world's peoples. On this, the sixtieth anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the need for global solidarity is as urgent as ever, if all people are to live in a way worthy of their dignity – as brothers and sisters dwelling in the same house and around that table which God's bounty has set for all his children. America has traditionally shown herself generous in meeting immediate human needs, fostering development and offering relief to the victims of natural catastrophes. I am confident that this concern for the greater human family will continue to find expression in support for the patient efforts of international diplomacy to resolve conflicts and promote progress. In this way, coming generations will be able to live in a world where truth, freedom and justice can flourish – a world where the God-given dignity and rights of every man, woman and child are cherished, protected and effectively advanced.
Mr. President, dear friends: as I begin my visit to the United States, I express once more my gratitude for your invitation, my joy to be in your midst, and my fervent prayers that Almighty God will confirm this nation and its people in the ways of justice, prosperity and peace. God bless America!
(© MMVIII, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
Monday, March 24, 2008
Now for something completely different...
Ok, I tried to post this BEFORE Villanova went on to win 2 games this past weekend and march into the Sweet 16 of the 2008 NCAA tournament. They gave me a great Easter present. I couldn't be happier.
Despite the government being a complete mess, I take solace in the good things in life - friends, family, life...and my Wildcats! It just a total surprise they made it this far and I guess that is what makes it so enjoyable.
We are so very lucky we live in the greatest nation on earth and we have men and women sacrificing EVERY DAY for us all over the globe. They keep us free and safe.
So, while my other posts seemed doom and gloom, there is also much to look forward to in the future. We can 'right' the ship. We just have to get involved and tell those who are our leaders - we demand better.
In mean time, enjoy the good things, the little things around you. Friends you know you can count on, even if they are half way around the world. Family, even when they make a mess of your house after a long weekend...and yes, the nice spring surprise of my villanova wildcats. Sometimes those unexepected surprises are the best ones since you weren't prepared for them ahead of time.
Now, maybe, just MAYBE we might get another one next Friday night? It is a very very long shot since the small, tired, and beat up Wildcats face the Kansas Jayhawks....but ya gotta believe?
Despite the government being a complete mess, I take solace in the good things in life - friends, family, life...and my Wildcats! It just a total surprise they made it this far and I guess that is what makes it so enjoyable.
We are so very lucky we live in the greatest nation on earth and we have men and women sacrificing EVERY DAY for us all over the globe. They keep us free and safe.
So, while my other posts seemed doom and gloom, there is also much to look forward to in the future. We can 'right' the ship. We just have to get involved and tell those who are our leaders - we demand better.
In mean time, enjoy the good things, the little things around you. Friends you know you can count on, even if they are half way around the world. Family, even when they make a mess of your house after a long weekend...and yes, the nice spring surprise of my villanova wildcats. Sometimes those unexepected surprises are the best ones since you weren't prepared for them ahead of time.
Now, maybe, just MAYBE we might get another one next Friday night? It is a very very long shot since the small, tired, and beat up Wildcats face the Kansas Jayhawks....but ya gotta believe?
Thursday, March 6, 2008
Economic Update
Just this past week, Fed Chief Ben Bernacke actually suggested that banks just write off these high risk loans. What does that mean - just say to someone with a no-down payment loan of $300,000, just pay back $150,000 of that...pay us SOMETHING, and that will be fine. Isn't that great for the rest of us making our mortgage payments on time?
Banks and government are being duplicitious in this scheme. By keeping the economy flooded with cash by cutting interest rates, they are killing us with inflation. Now, the Fed suggest, just write off the loans for people who can't afford to pay them.
What will happened to the secondary mortgage market for you and me? Yeah, that's right, prepare to pay 8,9,10% for mortgages. You think Banks are going to lose all that money and not look for repayment somewhere else?
So, banks, lenders, and the losers who played a game with interest only-now downpayment loans are going to get a bail out on our backs? It is amazing...with no downpayment, you have people literally just walking away from the houses. They have no money invested in the home, and the bank is on the hook. So they are just walking out of these houses and leaving the keys. No ramifications for them other than some bad credit.
What is wrong with this country? How did we get here? Yet the government and the Fedeal Reserve are going to prop up the economy, while driving up inflation for what purpose? To stave off a recession.
I am in the camp that we need to let the economy work this out. Banks will need to work through the mess they created. Some may not make it. We enter a small recession, markets will stabalize, and it will play out. Then we can move forward.
All we are facing now, is a recession, with a deflated dollar, increased energy costs, and inflation on the rise. Stagflation around the corner - remember the 1970s?
Banks and government are being duplicitious in this scheme. By keeping the economy flooded with cash by cutting interest rates, they are killing us with inflation. Now, the Fed suggest, just write off the loans for people who can't afford to pay them.
What will happened to the secondary mortgage market for you and me? Yeah, that's right, prepare to pay 8,9,10% for mortgages. You think Banks are going to lose all that money and not look for repayment somewhere else?
So, banks, lenders, and the losers who played a game with interest only-now downpayment loans are going to get a bail out on our backs? It is amazing...with no downpayment, you have people literally just walking away from the houses. They have no money invested in the home, and the bank is on the hook. So they are just walking out of these houses and leaving the keys. No ramifications for them other than some bad credit.
What is wrong with this country? How did we get here? Yet the government and the Fedeal Reserve are going to prop up the economy, while driving up inflation for what purpose? To stave off a recession.
I am in the camp that we need to let the economy work this out. Banks will need to work through the mess they created. Some may not make it. We enter a small recession, markets will stabalize, and it will play out. Then we can move forward.
All we are facing now, is a recession, with a deflated dollar, increased energy costs, and inflation on the rise. Stagflation around the corner - remember the 1970s?
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Economic woes
Well, the mortgage crisis continues to spiral. The stock market continues its downward trend. Bond insurers for municipal and other government backed treasuries are pulling back and BEST of all...the dollar is just about hitting lows not seen since the great depression.
But the government is going to do a great favor and give us some much needed stimulus in a check og $600 to $1200. That will save this economy.
The Federal Reserve is getting to the point that the cutting of the Fed Funds rate will have little to no impact. We are now at 3% in the most recent cuts and there has been little change in the credit market. Banks are afraid to issue credit and American's are starting to realize, the day of free money has ended. They can't keep using their homes as ATM machines.
This 'bubble' we have been riding started in the good ole 1990s. Dot coms where in the negative, but their stocks were over $100 a share. Greenspan rode that as long as he could, making everyone feel wealthy. That bubble burst. So with 9/11 and the need to get the economy moving, the Fed cut rates to rock bottom. Home prices spiked on increased speculators looking to flip homes, and buy and sell condos. Then you had MILLIONS of Americans use the little equity they had on paper to take out high rate HELOC and other instruments to buy cars, homes, and other things to make theme feel rich and powerful to their neighbor down the street.
It has all come home to roost. Add to that killer oil and energy prices, we are entering a very unstable time in the world. Even auction rate US Treasuries, backed by the United States Governments are having a hard time selling. Inflation is beginngin to soar. All you have to do is look at your grocery bill - food stuffs is skyrocketing. Also, thanks to the media hype of ethonol, corn prices have spiked as farmers are growing corn for the ethonol fuel. Thus feeding all sorts of farm animals has gone up - cows for milk and meat etc.
We will see gas at $4 a gallon this Summer.
Who do we thank for all this? Big Oil? No, BIG bloated and ineffective government. Democrats, who in the 1990s wouldn't let us use our OWN natural resources in Alaska and elsewhere to drill for oil. That oil would have been hitting the market right now, and don't tell me the average truck driver and mom going to work couldn't use a little break at the pump. That oil WOULD be a HUGE difference - almost 1-2 million barrels of US oil on the market today, as I type this. But no. The uninhabitable wasteland had to be preserved despite everyone knowing that with today's technology, the drilling would have little impact on the environment. Forget about all the good paying jobs it would have created.
Now, fine you say, what about off our own US coast? - we have tremendous oil reserves. BUT no, the Rich liberals don't want it, may hurt the dolphin or spoil their compound on the beach's view of the water. Once again, the average American pays for government not thinking in the best interest of the country. Guess who is drilling off our coasts and taking our oil? Cuba and the Communist nation of CHINA. So, we can't drill for oil, but they can. What is going on in Washington? Our enemies are using offshore rigs to lateral drill for oil in our reserves - what a concept.
Yet, we are lead to believe that the compact flourscent light bulb and a wind mill here and there will get to energy independence. This is what sells for national leadership. Just don't break one in your home. They are FILLED with mercury and you may need a special government agency to come and clean up the environmental hazard you created by breaking your light bulb. This is just insanity. What happens to the bulbs when we DO have to throw them out in a landfill? Again, another brilliant idea.
Both parties are to blame for utter lack of economic understand or even having an OUNCE of thought beyond the own pay check and power. After 9/11 one would think we would make it a national effort to find resources here - natural gas and oil, while pushing research for alternative energy sources that are VIABLE for national economic growth. This would move us away from the Middle East for our need to keep our economic engine running. It is like turning the titanic, it takes a WHILE to turn something so big as our economy and energy needs.
Now, China and India are sucking up more and more energy. But we are about to admit to global warming and then go after what little industry we have left and cap them. India and China will continue to grow as we shrink. China is building 4 new coal fired power plants PER MONTH! When was the last time we built a new refinery? Power plant? Nuclear plant?
We are heading into very difficult economic future. That past is the past. But anyone with a basic understanding of math could see how with a little thought, right now, almost seven years after 9/11 we could be much better than we are today economically. That oil would come in handy right about now. But instead, we are on our knees begging OPEC to increase production with costs as $104 a barrel. Their operating President yesterday stated he feels that OPEC should CUT, yes CUT, production. They know we are stagging and are looking to bring a knock out blow.
Prepare for some very very round economic times ahead. This election only provides a lesser of two evils. Both parties stink in the leadership category. Time will tell if we have what it takes to right the ship of state.
But the government is going to do a great favor and give us some much needed stimulus in a check og $600 to $1200. That will save this economy.
The Federal Reserve is getting to the point that the cutting of the Fed Funds rate will have little to no impact. We are now at 3% in the most recent cuts and there has been little change in the credit market. Banks are afraid to issue credit and American's are starting to realize, the day of free money has ended. They can't keep using their homes as ATM machines.
This 'bubble' we have been riding started in the good ole 1990s. Dot coms where in the negative, but their stocks were over $100 a share. Greenspan rode that as long as he could, making everyone feel wealthy. That bubble burst. So with 9/11 and the need to get the economy moving, the Fed cut rates to rock bottom. Home prices spiked on increased speculators looking to flip homes, and buy and sell condos. Then you had MILLIONS of Americans use the little equity they had on paper to take out high rate HELOC and other instruments to buy cars, homes, and other things to make theme feel rich and powerful to their neighbor down the street.
It has all come home to roost. Add to that killer oil and energy prices, we are entering a very unstable time in the world. Even auction rate US Treasuries, backed by the United States Governments are having a hard time selling. Inflation is beginngin to soar. All you have to do is look at your grocery bill - food stuffs is skyrocketing. Also, thanks to the media hype of ethonol, corn prices have spiked as farmers are growing corn for the ethonol fuel. Thus feeding all sorts of farm animals has gone up - cows for milk and meat etc.
We will see gas at $4 a gallon this Summer.
Who do we thank for all this? Big Oil? No, BIG bloated and ineffective government. Democrats, who in the 1990s wouldn't let us use our OWN natural resources in Alaska and elsewhere to drill for oil. That oil would have been hitting the market right now, and don't tell me the average truck driver and mom going to work couldn't use a little break at the pump. That oil WOULD be a HUGE difference - almost 1-2 million barrels of US oil on the market today, as I type this. But no. The uninhabitable wasteland had to be preserved despite everyone knowing that with today's technology, the drilling would have little impact on the environment. Forget about all the good paying jobs it would have created.
Now, fine you say, what about off our own US coast? - we have tremendous oil reserves. BUT no, the Rich liberals don't want it, may hurt the dolphin or spoil their compound on the beach's view of the water. Once again, the average American pays for government not thinking in the best interest of the country. Guess who is drilling off our coasts and taking our oil? Cuba and the Communist nation of CHINA. So, we can't drill for oil, but they can. What is going on in Washington? Our enemies are using offshore rigs to lateral drill for oil in our reserves - what a concept.
Yet, we are lead to believe that the compact flourscent light bulb and a wind mill here and there will get to energy independence. This is what sells for national leadership. Just don't break one in your home. They are FILLED with mercury and you may need a special government agency to come and clean up the environmental hazard you created by breaking your light bulb. This is just insanity. What happens to the bulbs when we DO have to throw them out in a landfill? Again, another brilliant idea.
Both parties are to blame for utter lack of economic understand or even having an OUNCE of thought beyond the own pay check and power. After 9/11 one would think we would make it a national effort to find resources here - natural gas and oil, while pushing research for alternative energy sources that are VIABLE for national economic growth. This would move us away from the Middle East for our need to keep our economic engine running. It is like turning the titanic, it takes a WHILE to turn something so big as our economy and energy needs.
Now, China and India are sucking up more and more energy. But we are about to admit to global warming and then go after what little industry we have left and cap them. India and China will continue to grow as we shrink. China is building 4 new coal fired power plants PER MONTH! When was the last time we built a new refinery? Power plant? Nuclear plant?
We are heading into very difficult economic future. That past is the past. But anyone with a basic understanding of math could see how with a little thought, right now, almost seven years after 9/11 we could be much better than we are today economically. That oil would come in handy right about now. But instead, we are on our knees begging OPEC to increase production with costs as $104 a barrel. Their operating President yesterday stated he feels that OPEC should CUT, yes CUT, production. They know we are stagging and are looking to bring a knock out blow.
Prepare for some very very round economic times ahead. This election only provides a lesser of two evils. Both parties stink in the leadership category. Time will tell if we have what it takes to right the ship of state.
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
True Patriot
My family and I were honored to spend time with my best friend Pat for his final weekend home before going over to Afghanistan. It meant a lot to us to be included in the time spent with his family. To us, they are part of our extended family.
It amazes me how there are still people like him out there. We as a nation are so lucky to have him and others willing to do the heavy lifting. Too often we get sucked into the daily rut of our lives and forget we have hundreds of thousands of service men and women overseas FIGHTING for us. They sacrifice everything for us.
I enjoy watching Pat with his family. His two daughters, his wife, and parents and sibilings mean the world to him. He is the type of guy who would do anything for you if asked. I know if I ever needed anything, he would be there.
His nation has called on him to help. He is doing with pride, willingly, despite knowing the strain it will put on his family. A year away from loved ones is one the greatest sacrifices anyone can make.
The world we live in today is all about soundbites, and the latest hollywood gossip. Since I became a dad, I have become much more attuned to the culture we get inundated with on TV. I have turned off a lot of it. It doesn't do anything to improve my life.
Then there are people like Pat. They are doing so much for us and their stories are getting lost in the constant blather and noise in the culture. Heros are the steroid filled baseball players chasing records for even more millions of dollars.
And don't forget the wives and moms (and dads too!) who provide support on the homefront means the world to the troops. They are true patriots and heros. Their story also should be told. Keeping the home running with kids and not skipping a beat while remaing a pilar of strength. Who can not be inspired by that?
Pat knows the evil we are facing. The people who just want to give up and go home really don't get it. They should take the time to talk to those doing the fighting. They might just learn something.
So, when Pat goes wheels up sometime in the near future...I will take a moment to say a prayer for his safe keeping and god's speed. I will do what little I can to support him and his other fellow soldiers. And I will count the days till his return and we can sit in my backyard, have a bbq and watch our kids grow.
Pat is a true patriot, willing to stand up when called. How many of us can say that?
It amazes me how there are still people like him out there. We as a nation are so lucky to have him and others willing to do the heavy lifting. Too often we get sucked into the daily rut of our lives and forget we have hundreds of thousands of service men and women overseas FIGHTING for us. They sacrifice everything for us.
I enjoy watching Pat with his family. His two daughters, his wife, and parents and sibilings mean the world to him. He is the type of guy who would do anything for you if asked. I know if I ever needed anything, he would be there.
His nation has called on him to help. He is doing with pride, willingly, despite knowing the strain it will put on his family. A year away from loved ones is one the greatest sacrifices anyone can make.
The world we live in today is all about soundbites, and the latest hollywood gossip. Since I became a dad, I have become much more attuned to the culture we get inundated with on TV. I have turned off a lot of it. It doesn't do anything to improve my life.
Then there are people like Pat. They are doing so much for us and their stories are getting lost in the constant blather and noise in the culture. Heros are the steroid filled baseball players chasing records for even more millions of dollars.
And don't forget the wives and moms (and dads too!) who provide support on the homefront means the world to the troops. They are true patriots and heros. Their story also should be told. Keeping the home running with kids and not skipping a beat while remaing a pilar of strength. Who can not be inspired by that?
Pat knows the evil we are facing. The people who just want to give up and go home really don't get it. They should take the time to talk to those doing the fighting. They might just learn something.
So, when Pat goes wheels up sometime in the near future...I will take a moment to say a prayer for his safe keeping and god's speed. I will do what little I can to support him and his other fellow soldiers. And I will count the days till his return and we can sit in my backyard, have a bbq and watch our kids grow.
Pat is a true patriot, willing to stand up when called. How many of us can say that?
Thursday, February 7, 2008
UPDATE - ROMNEY OUT
Well, I guess it is official..Romney has graciously bowed out of the election. Well, better start thinking about the choices laid out in the prior post.
Here is a link to his address at CPAC - a total class act to the end:
http://thepage.time.com/transcript-of-romneys-speech-withdrawing-from-the-race/
Here is the significant part that is worth a read....
"And Barack and Hillary have made their intentions clear regarding Iraq and the war on terror. They would retreat and declare defeat. And the consequence of that would be devastating. It would mean attacks on America, launched from safe havens that make Afghanistan under the Taliban look like child’s play. About this, I have no doubt.
I disagree with Senator McCain on a number of issues, as you know. But I agree with him on doing whatever it takes to be successful in Iraq, on finding and executing Osama bin Laden, and on eliminating Al Qaeda and terror. If I fight on in my campaign, all the way to the convention, I would forestall the launch of a national campaign and make it more likely that Senator Clinton or Obama would win. And in this time of war, I simply cannot let my campaign, be a part of aiding a surrender to terror.
This is not an easy decision for me. I hate to lose. My family, my friends and our supporters… many of you right here in this room… have given a great deal to get me where I have a shot at becoming President. If this were only about me, I would go on. But I entered this race because I love America, and because I love America, I feel I must now stand aside, for our party and for our country.
I will continue to stand for conservative principles; I will fight alongside you for all the things we believe in. And one of those things is that we cannot allow the next President of the United States to retreat in the face evil extremism!!
It is the common task of each generation—and the burden of liberty—to preserve this country, expand its freedoms and renew its spirit so that its noble past is prologue to its glorious future.
To this task… accepting this burden… we are all dedicated, and I firmly believe, by the providence of the Almighty, that we will succeed beyond our fondest hope. America must remain, as it has always been, the hope of the earth.
Thank you, and God bless America."
Here is a link to his address at CPAC - a total class act to the end:
http://thepage.time.com/transcript-of-romneys-speech-withdrawing-from-the-race/
Here is the significant part that is worth a read....
"And Barack and Hillary have made their intentions clear regarding Iraq and the war on terror. They would retreat and declare defeat. And the consequence of that would be devastating. It would mean attacks on America, launched from safe havens that make Afghanistan under the Taliban look like child’s play. About this, I have no doubt.
I disagree with Senator McCain on a number of issues, as you know. But I agree with him on doing whatever it takes to be successful in Iraq, on finding and executing Osama bin Laden, and on eliminating Al Qaeda and terror. If I fight on in my campaign, all the way to the convention, I would forestall the launch of a national campaign and make it more likely that Senator Clinton or Obama would win. And in this time of war, I simply cannot let my campaign, be a part of aiding a surrender to terror.
This is not an easy decision for me. I hate to lose. My family, my friends and our supporters… many of you right here in this room… have given a great deal to get me where I have a shot at becoming President. If this were only about me, I would go on. But I entered this race because I love America, and because I love America, I feel I must now stand aside, for our party and for our country.
I will continue to stand for conservative principles; I will fight alongside you for all the things we believe in. And one of those things is that we cannot allow the next President of the United States to retreat in the face evil extremism!!
It is the common task of each generation—and the burden of liberty—to preserve this country, expand its freedoms and renew its spirit so that its noble past is prologue to its glorious future.
To this task… accepting this burden… we are all dedicated, and I firmly believe, by the providence of the Almighty, that we will succeed beyond our fondest hope. America must remain, as it has always been, the hope of the earth.
Thank you, and God bless America."
Choices
It appears that McCain will wrap the nomination up in the near future despite the best efforts of Romney to appeal to the party base.
Now the question becomes - what will you do in November? That is really something I have been thinking about. Some have suggested becoming 'suicide voters' (don't really like that analogy). This means as conservatives you are so angry at how McCain has been ramrodded down your throats, you will vote for Hillary/Obama to send McCain a message. I just couldn't see being part of a vote that puts EITHER of those two left wingers in charge for four years, as much as I dislike McCain.
Another suggestion is to just stay home. I have never missed any election ever since turning 18 - school board, primary, national, local etc. I take the importance of my vote very seriously. That only hurts others further down on the ticket.
Another more viable option is for conservatives now to become much more activiated and involved. Work your butts off to elect conservates to the House, Senate, and Governorships across the country. We need to make sure we can have our values represented. If we end up with McCain, then we need to make sure we have people in the Senate to block ANY amnesty for illegals in the country, to block any .50cent gas tax increase to pay for the falicy of global warming etc. This has to be our calling.
That means probably pulling the lever for McCain, as difficult it will/may be. Or making sure we have others on the ticket and those further down we can support and motivate us.
I still hold out hope for a Romney come back. He could still pull it off, but it will take a small miracle.
McCain will be finished with me if he picks Huckabee as his VP. That will only go to prove to me his disdain and lack of respect for conservatives should he do that. Huckabee is hanging around to thwart Romney, by far the most qualified to carry our party banner.
Most recently McCain has said Conservatives should "calm down" now that he is the nominee. That is beyond condescending. But do you expect from this maverick.
So, conservatives, we have a lot of work to do, even in McCain in the nominee. We can still influence a lot of candidates from the local level right on up to Congress.
Don't let the media, the party country club republicans, or anyone insinuate we do not matter. It is really up to you!
Now the question becomes - what will you do in November? That is really something I have been thinking about. Some have suggested becoming 'suicide voters' (don't really like that analogy). This means as conservatives you are so angry at how McCain has been ramrodded down your throats, you will vote for Hillary/Obama to send McCain a message. I just couldn't see being part of a vote that puts EITHER of those two left wingers in charge for four years, as much as I dislike McCain.
Another suggestion is to just stay home. I have never missed any election ever since turning 18 - school board, primary, national, local etc. I take the importance of my vote very seriously. That only hurts others further down on the ticket.
Another more viable option is for conservatives now to become much more activiated and involved. Work your butts off to elect conservates to the House, Senate, and Governorships across the country. We need to make sure we can have our values represented. If we end up with McCain, then we need to make sure we have people in the Senate to block ANY amnesty for illegals in the country, to block any .50cent gas tax increase to pay for the falicy of global warming etc. This has to be our calling.
That means probably pulling the lever for McCain, as difficult it will/may be. Or making sure we have others on the ticket and those further down we can support and motivate us.
I still hold out hope for a Romney come back. He could still pull it off, but it will take a small miracle.
McCain will be finished with me if he picks Huckabee as his VP. That will only go to prove to me his disdain and lack of respect for conservatives should he do that. Huckabee is hanging around to thwart Romney, by far the most qualified to carry our party banner.
Most recently McCain has said Conservatives should "calm down" now that he is the nominee. That is beyond condescending. But do you expect from this maverick.
So, conservatives, we have a lot of work to do, even in McCain in the nominee. We can still influence a lot of candidates from the local level right on up to Congress.
Don't let the media, the party country club republicans, or anyone insinuate we do not matter. It is really up to you!
Wednesday, February 6, 2008
Death of Conservatism?
Well, the pundits, MSM types and others are singing the joys of a McCain candidacy for President. And last night, enough lazy Republicans afraid of doing any kind of intellectual thinking all but sealed the win for McCain. All they cared about was who the MEDIA was telling them could beat Hillary in November.
As a conservative, I found our field of candidates pretty weak overall. None was a 'true' principaled conservative. Romeny is by far the closest. But he looks to fight on, without much hope. The cards are stacked against him. Huckabee made a deal with McCain and will either end up VP or in his administration. He is staying in to thwart any movement for Romney by appealing to the Evangelicals and spewing carefully parsed anti-moron rhetoric - thus appealing to fear of a 'mormon'.
How did we get here? You can thank George Bush and the country club, martini sipping liberal RHINOs (Republicans in Name Only) who have pure comtempt and hatred of people like me - principaled conservatives. They have been trying for decades to marginalize and isolate us. We are the 'yahoos' of the Republican party. The 2006 election was the start of the end of Conservative influence in the party. Conservative powers houses - Rick Santorum and George Allen were lost. In fact, if George Allen had held on, he would be our nominee today. He would have cleaned the clocks of the other candidates in the field. But, it wasn't to be.
So, we will enter the November election with two left wing Republicans. Now you will see McCain's turn to the left. He has soldified his own view that he doesn't NEED conservatives for him to win. It is his belief that he can win without us.
He and his allies will be mistaken. Why appeal to moderate by trying to be more like Hillary or Obama? It won't work, never has. If you draw clear distinctions about your principals, you will win. You don't try to be more like your opponent.
The 2008 election will end up more like 1996 when another establishment candidate Bob Dole was destroyed by another Clinton.
If the ticket is indeed McCain/Huckabee, I may not vote for the first time in my life. I may write-in a candidate. We sure have come far from Reagan, and the 1994 Conservative sweep under Newt Gingrich.
Well done moderates, we'll be watching you, but not voting for you.
Here is a link to Mitt's speech on Super Tuesday
http://www.mittromney.com/News/Press-Releases/Super_Tuesday
As a conservative, I found our field of candidates pretty weak overall. None was a 'true' principaled conservative. Romeny is by far the closest. But he looks to fight on, without much hope. The cards are stacked against him. Huckabee made a deal with McCain and will either end up VP or in his administration. He is staying in to thwart any movement for Romney by appealing to the Evangelicals and spewing carefully parsed anti-moron rhetoric - thus appealing to fear of a 'mormon'.
How did we get here? You can thank George Bush and the country club, martini sipping liberal RHINOs (Republicans in Name Only) who have pure comtempt and hatred of people like me - principaled conservatives. They have been trying for decades to marginalize and isolate us. We are the 'yahoos' of the Republican party. The 2006 election was the start of the end of Conservative influence in the party. Conservative powers houses - Rick Santorum and George Allen were lost. In fact, if George Allen had held on, he would be our nominee today. He would have cleaned the clocks of the other candidates in the field. But, it wasn't to be.
So, we will enter the November election with two left wing Republicans. Now you will see McCain's turn to the left. He has soldified his own view that he doesn't NEED conservatives for him to win. It is his belief that he can win without us.
He and his allies will be mistaken. Why appeal to moderate by trying to be more like Hillary or Obama? It won't work, never has. If you draw clear distinctions about your principals, you will win. You don't try to be more like your opponent.
The 2008 election will end up more like 1996 when another establishment candidate Bob Dole was destroyed by another Clinton.
If the ticket is indeed McCain/Huckabee, I may not vote for the first time in my life. I may write-in a candidate. We sure have come far from Reagan, and the 1994 Conservative sweep under Newt Gingrich.
Well done moderates, we'll be watching you, but not voting for you.
Here is a link to Mitt's speech on Super Tuesday
http://www.mittromney.com/News/Press-Releases/Super_Tuesday
Friday, January 25, 2008
Huckaburger
Well, the last candidate I will review is Mike Huckabee. A strong evangelical. Seems like a good person and did a decent job in the State of Arkansas.
However, his slight of hand jabs at Mitt's religion and his constant use of religious tones in his campaign scares me greatly.
He is a great debater, has a lot of skills that make him a good campaigner, and can act quickly on his feet.
Mike does have a lot to offer and would be a good adversary to Clinton or Obama.
The problem is, at least for me, with Mike, he seems not ready for the most important job in the world. Just not enough there. His recent hard stance on immigration after working to ensure in-state tuition for illegal children in his home state is a nullifier for me.
Sure he has chuck norris with him, which is very entertaining. He has lost over 125 pounds and turned around his life. But he is not ready to lead the free world and his use of religion to DIVIDE us, makes me very uncomfortable.
On a side note, what about McCain and Huckabee comapring endorsements - Chuck Norris for Huck, and Syvester Stallone for McCain...honestly, while humorous, who cares? Not I....
However, his slight of hand jabs at Mitt's religion and his constant use of religious tones in his campaign scares me greatly.
He is a great debater, has a lot of skills that make him a good campaigner, and can act quickly on his feet.
Mike does have a lot to offer and would be a good adversary to Clinton or Obama.
The problem is, at least for me, with Mike, he seems not ready for the most important job in the world. Just not enough there. His recent hard stance on immigration after working to ensure in-state tuition for illegal children in his home state is a nullifier for me.
Sure he has chuck norris with him, which is very entertaining. He has lost over 125 pounds and turned around his life. But he is not ready to lead the free world and his use of religion to DIVIDE us, makes me very uncomfortable.
On a side note, what about McCain and Huckabee comapring endorsements - Chuck Norris for Huck, and Syvester Stallone for McCain...honestly, while humorous, who cares? Not I....
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Romney the Man?
Well, Seems the field is dwindling since I started posting my thoughts. Sorry Fred Thompson, hardly even knew 'ya!
So, what about Mitt Romney? If you look at pure credentials, he matches Rudy on that front. A governor who ran a liberal state and was able to cut taxes and create jobs. He took on the complete mess of the Salt Lake City Olympics and turned it around. Mitt ran numerous businesses and done very well with almost all of them - he knows the hardship in making a payroll. Probably even more important in today's climate, he actually got passed a health care reform plan to cover everyone in his state. Now, it isn't perfect, but that is still quite and accomplishment.
I also read a story that during one of his business ventures, he decided to spin off a new company from one he took over. He posted a sheet in the office for those interested in going with him to start this new company. There would be major risks, maybe no salaries for a while until things got up and running. The ENTIRE office signed the sheet to go with Mitt Romney. That tells me this man can instill confidence and knows how to lead and get things done. Just one story, but one that has stuck with me for a while.
No doubt he has issues of being a 'flip-flopper', especially on abortion. He only came around when he was governor. But being as someone who came late to this issue myself in college, sometimes, making a change in your beliefs isn't a bad thing. To me, he made a change in the right direction. Many say it is political expedience to have this 'change' now. Maybe, maybe so. But it doesn't go to diminish his other good works.
I find the attacks on Mitt Romney because he is a Mormon as flat out wrong. This isn't an HBO tv show and they no longer support having multiple wives. Isn't time for us a nation to move past this? His religious beliefs aren't an issue for me, so I wont' even waste any further space on this issue. He believes in the Judo-Christian values, that's good enough for me.
I think the Democrats fear him more than other candidates. The media was in love with Rudy and now McCain. I can't remember any conservative candidate the media wanted to WIN. SO I am suspect of their support of any of the Republican candidates.
Mitt has a great deal to offer. Good record, gets things done, business man, good family man, and has the potential to be a great leader. With tough economic times pending, we could use someone with his real world experience at the helm of our financial ship.
So, what about Mitt Romney? If you look at pure credentials, he matches Rudy on that front. A governor who ran a liberal state and was able to cut taxes and create jobs. He took on the complete mess of the Salt Lake City Olympics and turned it around. Mitt ran numerous businesses and done very well with almost all of them - he knows the hardship in making a payroll. Probably even more important in today's climate, he actually got passed a health care reform plan to cover everyone in his state. Now, it isn't perfect, but that is still quite and accomplishment.
I also read a story that during one of his business ventures, he decided to spin off a new company from one he took over. He posted a sheet in the office for those interested in going with him to start this new company. There would be major risks, maybe no salaries for a while until things got up and running. The ENTIRE office signed the sheet to go with Mitt Romney. That tells me this man can instill confidence and knows how to lead and get things done. Just one story, but one that has stuck with me for a while.
No doubt he has issues of being a 'flip-flopper', especially on abortion. He only came around when he was governor. But being as someone who came late to this issue myself in college, sometimes, making a change in your beliefs isn't a bad thing. To me, he made a change in the right direction. Many say it is political expedience to have this 'change' now. Maybe, maybe so. But it doesn't go to diminish his other good works.
I find the attacks on Mitt Romney because he is a Mormon as flat out wrong. This isn't an HBO tv show and they no longer support having multiple wives. Isn't time for us a nation to move past this? His religious beliefs aren't an issue for me, so I wont' even waste any further space on this issue. He believes in the Judo-Christian values, that's good enough for me.
I think the Democrats fear him more than other candidates. The media was in love with Rudy and now McCain. I can't remember any conservative candidate the media wanted to WIN. SO I am suspect of their support of any of the Republican candidates.
Mitt has a great deal to offer. Good record, gets things done, business man, good family man, and has the potential to be a great leader. With tough economic times pending, we could use someone with his real world experience at the helm of our financial ship.
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
Media Coverage
Isn't it a sad state of affairs when the media goes crazy over the death of actor Heath Ledger. While a sad story, there is so many more important things going on that deserve coverage.
How about those who sacrifice for our country? Leaving behind family and friends to worry and wait for their return. Some making the ultimate sacrifice. Where are THEIR stories? It is a rare thing for the media to spend ANY time on these individuals. Here is a link to a story about Sgt Dozier. His family has given back to this country since the Civil War! He was killed in Iraq in early January. Read his story:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/01/22/AR2008012203333.html
What about the March for Life? Where was the media coverage of this event? People speaking out for the 40-45 MILLION lives aborted since the passage of Roe v Wade. Not much at all actually. The passing of a hollywood actor was 'breaking news' all night long.
Just another sign of the world we live in. It doesn't diminish Mr. Ledger's passing, it is a terrible thing for anyone so young to pass away. But there many stories of sacrifice and REAL service that go unreported. These are the stories that need to be told.
How about those who sacrifice for our country? Leaving behind family and friends to worry and wait for their return. Some making the ultimate sacrifice. Where are THEIR stories? It is a rare thing for the media to spend ANY time on these individuals. Here is a link to a story about Sgt Dozier. His family has given back to this country since the Civil War! He was killed in Iraq in early January. Read his story:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/01/22/AR2008012203333.html
What about the March for Life? Where was the media coverage of this event? People speaking out for the 40-45 MILLION lives aborted since the passage of Roe v Wade. Not much at all actually. The passing of a hollywood actor was 'breaking news' all night long.
Just another sign of the world we live in. It doesn't diminish Mr. Ledger's passing, it is a terrible thing for anyone so young to pass away. But there many stories of sacrifice and REAL service that go unreported. These are the stories that need to be told.
Friday, January 11, 2008
Does Rudy Have What it Takes?
Next up on my analysis is Rudy. The famed Mayor of New York City.
He is the one candidate that I know pretty well. He was Mayor of one of the largest cities in the world, near to Long Island where I grew up.
I knew the City before Rudy as a kid and I can tell you it was a scary place. It was dirty, seedy, and was not place most people would want to go. There were places in the city where even the police would not respond. Rudy went to work on day one to change image and fundamentally change how the city operated.
There is no doubt, he was a controversial mayor at the time. The city was used to the status quo and decades of democratic rule. He, along with Police Commissioners at the time, instituted the ComStat System to track and analyze crime. It allowed the police to allocate appropriate resources to the areas where it was most needed.
Rudy took on a hostile City Council with only about 2 Republicans as members. He got major tax reform and more importantly welfare reform done. When you think about the Council had to deal with in his eight years as mayor, it really is astounding.
Then came 9/11. A day I for one will never forget, especially being from New York and having most of my family, friends and loved ones on Long Island. No escaped the effects of that day if you were a New Yorker. Rudy lead the city and the country during that time with a steely and calm we needed. He and his staff went about the daunting task before them with determination. He lost a lot of personal friends and yet knew he was the face of the city, and maybe the nation, so he could not let emotions get the better of him.
There is NO doubt Rudy has the executive leadership and crisis leadership that has been tested. He is a great leader. He knows how to get things done. In fact, at first he was my candidate 100%. He has released one the best tax reform plans because it is realistic and has a chance to be reality unlike the Huckabee Fair Tax Plan.
But, he does have weaknesses and the major one is IMMIGRATION. For me that is the second most important issue facing our nation. Rudy has now 'seen' the light and appears strong border security, but his past in allowing New York City to be a sanctuary city does give me some hesitation to pull the lever for him. Will he be quick to join with the likes of McCain to push Immigration reform? This is something I vehemently against.
He is also socially liberal, on abortion. I believe every life is sacred. I owe that to my friend Chris Bruzzi who discussed the issue all night long outside my dorm Fedigan Hall freshman year. Rudy believes in choice. The Presidency has little real influence on the issue other than the bully pulpit and in the judges that are appointed. Again, will he let his views influence his decision on pro-life judges that we desperately need on the bench? A question remains in my mind.
On the flip side, I know Rudy will appoint judges who will follow the law and NO create it. He has said he would select judges in the mold of Alito and Roberts. Both of these Bush appointees are great Justices.
He does have a lot of personal baggage that the other side will use against him. Three wives. This could depress the conservative turn out in the heartland and that is a big issue. But he also does put some states Republicans have not even had a chance in (i.e. Pennsylvania) in play.
Rudy - fiscally conservative, tested leadership, and strong on national defense, but socially moderate. He is at the top of my selection list. Flawed is some ways, great in other ways. But then again, no candidate can be 100%, Ronald Reagan was a once in a lifetime President. Rudy is formidable. Someone you should seriously consider. The positives do outweigh the negatives...but there are enough negatives to be concerned.
He is the one candidate that I know pretty well. He was Mayor of one of the largest cities in the world, near to Long Island where I grew up.
I knew the City before Rudy as a kid and I can tell you it was a scary place. It was dirty, seedy, and was not place most people would want to go. There were places in the city where even the police would not respond. Rudy went to work on day one to change image and fundamentally change how the city operated.
There is no doubt, he was a controversial mayor at the time. The city was used to the status quo and decades of democratic rule. He, along with Police Commissioners at the time, instituted the ComStat System to track and analyze crime. It allowed the police to allocate appropriate resources to the areas where it was most needed.
Rudy took on a hostile City Council with only about 2 Republicans as members. He got major tax reform and more importantly welfare reform done. When you think about the Council had to deal with in his eight years as mayor, it really is astounding.
Then came 9/11. A day I for one will never forget, especially being from New York and having most of my family, friends and loved ones on Long Island. No escaped the effects of that day if you were a New Yorker. Rudy lead the city and the country during that time with a steely and calm we needed. He and his staff went about the daunting task before them with determination. He lost a lot of personal friends and yet knew he was the face of the city, and maybe the nation, so he could not let emotions get the better of him.
There is NO doubt Rudy has the executive leadership and crisis leadership that has been tested. He is a great leader. He knows how to get things done. In fact, at first he was my candidate 100%. He has released one the best tax reform plans because it is realistic and has a chance to be reality unlike the Huckabee Fair Tax Plan.
But, he does have weaknesses and the major one is IMMIGRATION. For me that is the second most important issue facing our nation. Rudy has now 'seen' the light and appears strong border security, but his past in allowing New York City to be a sanctuary city does give me some hesitation to pull the lever for him. Will he be quick to join with the likes of McCain to push Immigration reform? This is something I vehemently against.
He is also socially liberal, on abortion. I believe every life is sacred. I owe that to my friend Chris Bruzzi who discussed the issue all night long outside my dorm Fedigan Hall freshman year. Rudy believes in choice. The Presidency has little real influence on the issue other than the bully pulpit and in the judges that are appointed. Again, will he let his views influence his decision on pro-life judges that we desperately need on the bench? A question remains in my mind.
On the flip side, I know Rudy will appoint judges who will follow the law and NO create it. He has said he would select judges in the mold of Alito and Roberts. Both of these Bush appointees are great Justices.
He does have a lot of personal baggage that the other side will use against him. Three wives. This could depress the conservative turn out in the heartland and that is a big issue. But he also does put some states Republicans have not even had a chance in (i.e. Pennsylvania) in play.
Rudy - fiscally conservative, tested leadership, and strong on national defense, but socially moderate. He is at the top of my selection list. Flawed is some ways, great in other ways. But then again, no candidate can be 100%, Ronald Reagan was a once in a lifetime President. Rudy is formidable. Someone you should seriously consider. The positives do outweigh the negatives...but there are enough negatives to be concerned.
Thursday, January 10, 2008
Illegal Immigration Update
Perhaps the Presidential candidates of both parties will address this issue that is coming out today: Mexican troops crossing into US terrority and engaging in operations. Doubtful, they are too busy like Mike Huckabee talking about Huckaburgers on the Colbert Show.
Here is a link to an article about the story or government doesn't want you to know:
http://www.wnd.com/news/article.asp?ARTICLE_ID=59611
Illegal immigration is the issue of our time. But the candidates continue to duck it and media doesn't want to bring it up. Well, we the people will not let this issue die.
Here is a link to an article about the story or government doesn't want you to know:
http://www.wnd.com/news/article.asp?ARTICLE_ID=59611
Illegal immigration is the issue of our time. But the candidates continue to duck it and media doesn't want to bring it up. Well, we the people will not let this issue die.
Presidential Race
Here we are, in 2008. Another Presidential race is upon us. Who do you support? Why even care?
Well, we all BETTER care. We are entering a new era where the foundation of American supremacy in the world is under constant challenge - militarily, economically, and socially.
Oil is at an all time high. The dollar is at an all time LOW. Home prices are dipping and many Americans used their homes as credit cards to go out and purchase all the toys they had to have.
With all that in mind, we have a pretty weak field of 'leaders' to choose from. I consider myself American first, Conservative second, Republican third (and only because the Democrats are SO far left, they forced Joe Lieberman out of their party).
We have so much at stake this election. Our troops overseas will be tremendously affected by the decision the country makes in November.
For me, national security is the #1 issue, followed by immigration and then addressing our sagging economy and awful tax system. I have gone back and forth between who I would support.
If I had my choice, I would take a part or program from each candidate to make the ideal president. Unfortunately, that is not possible. John McCain has the recent momentum after New Hampshire. He is not a true conservative. He sided with Ted Kennedy of all people to push through am Immigration Reform Act that would have given virtual Amnesty to 12 million illegals. He did this against what he and Lindsay Graham (SC) called the 'angry people'. You may know them, they are you and me who are TIRED of the government not meeting their responsibilities to secure our borders. Forget the immigration issue with border security, how about the national security issue? Terrorist could get to Mexico and WALK across the border into the United States. John McCain still believes in his plan and now 'says' he is for border security first, then amnesty.
Let's talk economics and McCain. He voted against the Bush tax cuts which has lead to increased revenues. Sure John has fought government spending during his years in the Senate. That is good, and we support that. But to still support his decision to vote against the tax cuts would worry any conservative. What happens when he becomes President and the tax cuts are set to expire? You and I would be hit with a MAJOR tax increase by default and President McCain probably would do nothing and claim it isn't a tax increase. VERY worrisome.
As much as I believe John McCain in his patriotism and support of the military, especially the 'surge', there is much that brings great concern and hesitation to mind. He was indeed the only one who went out on a limb to support the surge and we are seeing some good things as a result. No one can question is passion and love of Country. NO one. While noble and his service to the country as a POW and in Congress should be praised, I will have a hard time being an active supporter should he win the nomination. I think his nomination will depress a lot of conservatives across the country.
Next time I will analyze Mitt Romney the former governor of MA.
Well, we all BETTER care. We are entering a new era where the foundation of American supremacy in the world is under constant challenge - militarily, economically, and socially.
Oil is at an all time high. The dollar is at an all time LOW. Home prices are dipping and many Americans used their homes as credit cards to go out and purchase all the toys they had to have.
With all that in mind, we have a pretty weak field of 'leaders' to choose from. I consider myself American first, Conservative second, Republican third (and only because the Democrats are SO far left, they forced Joe Lieberman out of their party).
We have so much at stake this election. Our troops overseas will be tremendously affected by the decision the country makes in November.
For me, national security is the #1 issue, followed by immigration and then addressing our sagging economy and awful tax system. I have gone back and forth between who I would support.
If I had my choice, I would take a part or program from each candidate to make the ideal president. Unfortunately, that is not possible. John McCain has the recent momentum after New Hampshire. He is not a true conservative. He sided with Ted Kennedy of all people to push through am Immigration Reform Act that would have given virtual Amnesty to 12 million illegals. He did this against what he and Lindsay Graham (SC) called the 'angry people'. You may know them, they are you and me who are TIRED of the government not meeting their responsibilities to secure our borders. Forget the immigration issue with border security, how about the national security issue? Terrorist could get to Mexico and WALK across the border into the United States. John McCain still believes in his plan and now 'says' he is for border security first, then amnesty.
Let's talk economics and McCain. He voted against the Bush tax cuts which has lead to increased revenues. Sure John has fought government spending during his years in the Senate. That is good, and we support that. But to still support his decision to vote against the tax cuts would worry any conservative. What happens when he becomes President and the tax cuts are set to expire? You and I would be hit with a MAJOR tax increase by default and President McCain probably would do nothing and claim it isn't a tax increase. VERY worrisome.
As much as I believe John McCain in his patriotism and support of the military, especially the 'surge', there is much that brings great concern and hesitation to mind. He was indeed the only one who went out on a limb to support the surge and we are seeing some good things as a result. No one can question is passion and love of Country. NO one. While noble and his service to the country as a POW and in Congress should be praised, I will have a hard time being an active supporter should he win the nomination. I think his nomination will depress a lot of conservatives across the country.
Next time I will analyze Mitt Romney the former governor of MA.
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