Speak Out: Trump - Growing With the Job

Posted by Have_Wheels_Will_Travel on Sat, Apr 8, 2017, at 7:14 AM:

Trump is showing himself to be a man who can make a decision and act upon it.

Replies (964)

  • In spite of all of the distractions thrown at him by the opposition, Trump is showing that he can shrug off the incoming flack, host a foreign dignitary and respond to a poison gas attack by a leader against civilians of his own country..... all at the same time.

    Quite a contrast to what we had become accustomed to expect.

    -- Posted by Have_Wheels_Will_Travel on Sat, Apr 8, 2017, at 7:28 AM
  • No doubt about it. Said it before and I'll say it again...

    I don't like his style, but I do like his substance. He's got a lot of work to do and I think he'll get it done. The expectation that he can do everything in 100 days is ridiculous.

    But he's done a lot. And a lot more to come. Wouldn't surprise me one bit if he decides not to run for a second term and let's Pence or someone else pick up the ball then.

    -- Posted by not_sorry on Sat, Apr 8, 2017, at 10:02 PM
  • I think the missiles were only a an expensive statement meant to tell the world the American light switch diplomacy expected has ended. It has always ended with the same result and business as usual is over. The influence of the military industrial private capitalists are on notice that our military might will be guided by what is in the best interest of America and our allies and not via democrat big money intent on writing foreign policy through lawmakers.

    To my knowledge Trump has never displayed a quest for power but a strong ambition to be better and best in what he does.

    Time will tell but as of now I am glad I voted for him.

    -- Posted by Old John on Sat, Apr 8, 2017, at 10:38 PM
  • ...Growing With the Job...

    That's pretty sad, considering the juvenile level he started from...

    On day one, recall something like, "...my inauguration crowd was bigger than yous, so there!"

    The one accomplishment from his military advisers, gets him lavishly "praised" as finally acting as an adult.

    But even then, the next day Syrian fighter planes were flying from the same base dropping dumb metal bombs on the same city, apparently with Russian permission. None of the chemical stockpiles were targeted. The Syrians were given hours advance notice of the attack, so much for "not showing your hand."

    Furthermore, in 2013 the Russians took away Assad's chemical weapons (although they seem to have eventually given some back.)

    In 2017, the Russians promised to beef up Assad's air defenses, to allow him to keep his current stocks of chemical weapons.

    Nothing's as simple as some would like to make it.

    -- Posted by commonsensematters on Sun, Apr 9, 2017, at 8:36 AM
  • "...but a strong ambition to be better..."

    Off to a poor start. The repeal Obamacare on day one "promise" became this...

    "President Trump said Monday that "nobody knew that healthcare could be so complicated," as Republicans have been slow to unite around a replacement plan for ObamaCare.

    "I have to tell you, it's an unbelievably complex subject," Trump said after a meeting with conservative governors at the White House."

    Right, and more than a month later, still no plan, no progress...

    -- Posted by commonsensematters on Sun, Apr 9, 2017, at 8:41 AM
  • Furthermore, in 2013 the Russians took away Assad's chemical weapons (although they seem to have eventually given some back.) Nothing's as simple as some would like to make it. -- Posted by commonsensematters on Sun, Apr 9, 2017, at 8:36 AM

    So they didn't take them away. Who was "negotiating" then? Oh yes - your Messiah Barack Obama was. He was duped by the Russians. And so were you.

    Wrong again.

    -- Posted by not_sorry on Sun, Apr 9, 2017, at 8:45 AM
  • That's pretty sad, considering the juvenile level he started from... -- Posted by commonsensematters on Sun, Apr 9, 2017, at 8:36 AM

    Says the guy who voted twice for a community organizer and Acorn attorney. LOL! You have no credibility here.

    -- Posted by not_sorry on Sun, Apr 9, 2017, at 8:46 AM
  • U.S. Aircraft Carrier-Led Strike Group Reverses Course, Heads Back Towards North Korea & Korean Peninsula

    U.S. Navy strike group Carl Vinson, led by the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson is headed towards the Western Pacific Ocean to the Korean Peninsula in a show of force in response to the recent blatant provocations by North Korea.

    A U.S. Navy press release stated, “Admiral Harry Harris, Commander, U.S. Pacific Command, has directed the Carl Vinson Strike Group to sail north and report on station in the Western Pacific Ocean after departing Singapore April 8.” The release continued to note that the strike group “will operate in the Western Pacific rather than executing previously planned port visits to Australia.”

    The ships that make up the strike group are the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) the guided missile destroyers USS Wayne E. Meyer (DDG 108) and USS Michael Murphy (DDG 112) and the guided missile cruiser USS Lake Champlain (CG 57).

    http://americanmilitarynews.com/2017/04/u-s-aircraft-carrier-led-strike-group-re...

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sun, Apr 9, 2017, at 5:56 PM
  • Right or wrong , Trump has stones , Obama didn't .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sun, Apr 9, 2017, at 5:57 PM
  • commonsensematters

    Don't even start with who said what .

    I've got 8 years of buffalo shat ....

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sun, Apr 9, 2017, at 6:00 PM
  • Food for thought...no nation at war has ever been stopped by aerial bombing. (except Nuclear and Japan). Just makes everyone angry...and cost! -- Posted by Theorist on Sun, Apr 9, 2017, at 6:25 PM

    Then why did you support Obama's bombing? Hypocrisy?

    -- Posted by not_sorry on Sun, Apr 9, 2017, at 7:50 PM
  • What is Theorist doing over here on the adult sitem

    She thinks Obama is still President.

    -- Posted by Have_Wheels_Will_Travel on Sun, Apr 9, 2017, at 9:01 PM
  • The USS Carl Vinson was the one Shapley was on if I recall correctly.

    Theorist, ole wise one, how does bombing the airbase that held the WMDs that Obama got the Russians to take away help the Islamic state leaders? Are you saying you are against Islam now after defending freedom of religion? Your all over the map in your hate, just as ole common has became so engrossed in saying and repeating anything anti-Trump that he ignores facts and continues to repeat the tired old talking points of the soon to be proven most corrupt political administration in history.

    -- Posted by Old John on Sun, Apr 9, 2017, at 10:28 PM
  • Theorist

    Yes he does .

    He took action , Obama took words .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, Apr 10, 2017, at 3:01 AM
  • Another day of quiet on Speak Out, so now we get to read Theorist's hate speeches over here.

    Did they make this a free venue again?

    -- Posted by Have_Wheels_Will_Travel on Mon, Apr 10, 2017, at 7:43 AM
  • Wheels

    I tried putting it on the Speak Out Forum , it's what it said at the bottom of the new 4/40/2017 to do .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, Apr 10, 2017, at 8:17 AM
  • Theorist

    I never thought of it that way , you might be on to something . The news last night said Syria was already using war planes from that military base those missiles hit .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, Apr 10, 2017, at 8:20 AM
  • Obama sought Congress approval to bomb Syria and was turned down by the Republican Congress? Now it's fine to do so? I hope the Democrats don't act like the way the Republicans did then and become the party of NO. No matter what the issue, NO!!!

    -- Posted by exmissourian on Mon, Apr 10, 2017, at 8:31 AM
  • -- Posted by exmissourian on Mon, Apr 10, 2017, at 8:31 AM

    You and Theorist have such short memories.

    Obama ignored the US law and Congress more than any president in history with his record "executive orders". Has the biased media sucked you in with their observations? The republicans didn't stop him in 2013. He stopped himself.

    Republicans were skeptical of Obama in 2013 because he'd already screwed up Iraq and allowed ISIS to start. He was always more concerned about campaign promises than the security / integrity of the US.

    -- Posted by not_sorry on Mon, Apr 10, 2017, at 8:35 AM
  • exmissourian

    That Party of "no" is getting pretty lame .

    It's a weak excuse for a weak President , a good and great Leader and can work and negotiate with anyone .

    It's more like the President of no and his followers of "I believe anything the weak man said ."

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, Apr 10, 2017, at 8:44 AM
  • -- Posted by ~ Rick on Mon, Apr 10, 2017, at 8:17 AM

    Ah yes, I see. Haven't bothered to go through the clutter at the bottom to get that far before.

    Interesting.

    -- Posted by Have_Wheels_Will_Travel on Mon, Apr 10, 2017, at 10:04 AM
  • -- Posted by ~ Rick on Mon, Apr 10, 2017, at 8:17 AM

    Rick,

    PS: Wonder if they are now making this a freebie, or will the freeloaders have to shut up after a few sentences?

    -- Posted by Have_Wheels_Will_Travel on Mon, Apr 10, 2017, at 10:06 AM
  • Oh my, even the most hardened of Leftist Democrats are deserting Theorist and her position on Trump's throwing a few bombs at Assad.

    Theorist, soon you will be "Left", pun intended, standing all alone as one by one the gutless Leftists sway to popular opinion.

    http://eheadlines.com/what-pelosi-and-schumer-actually-praised-donald-trump-vide...

    -- Posted by Have_Wheels_Will_Travel on Mon, Apr 10, 2017, at 10:38 AM
  • From today's Speakout that you can't Speakout about:

    Why the uproar and discontent over the electoral/popular vote this past presidential election? It happened with the Bush/Gore election without this outrage.

    Looks like a call that asks what I've been asking but no one seems to want to address it.

    -- Posted by rocknroll on Mon, Apr 10, 2017, at 11:16 AM
  • I understand the need for military, but do not support unnecessary involvement, and seek to find a peaceful solution to problems.

    -- Posted by Theorist on Mon, Apr 10, 2017, at 11:15 AM

    It appears to me that less and less Democrats are finding it was unnecessary. They seem to be following the trend of the general public. What you find unnecessary appears to be finding YOU in a smaller group as time goes on.

    -- Posted by Have_Wheels_Will_Travel on Mon, Apr 10, 2017, at 11:29 AM
  • "I was against Obama's proposed air strikes,"

    As a PS Theorist, I don't remember hearing a lot of noise out of you on any of Obama's proposals or deeds..... no matter how outrageous they happened to be.

    My opinion.... you are a partisan hack, nothing more, nothing less.

    -- Posted by Have_Wheels_Will_Travel on Mon, Apr 10, 2017, at 11:33 AM
  • Looks like a call that asks what I've been asking but no one seems to want to address it.

    -- Posted by rocknroll on Mon, Apr 10, 2017, at 11:16 AM

    I'll bet a dollar against a donut the Hillary freaks can't name the other 3 besides BushII who won but didn't have the majority of the vote .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, Apr 10, 2017, at 1:11 PM
  • Ah yes, I see. Haven't bothered to go through the clutter at the bottom to get that far before.

    Interesting.

    -- Posted by Have_Wheels_Will_Travel on Mon, Apr 10, 2017, at 10:04 AM

    I screwed up when I created the Thread by not cut~n~paste the entire Speak Out call ins at the top of the Thread for all to see , it might have made things easier to follow instead of trying to go back and forth .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, Apr 10, 2017, at 1:14 PM
  • Theorist

    Kind of late for not wanting war , no ?

    Didn't the USA involvement begin with Desert Storm .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, Apr 10, 2017, at 1:15 PM
  • After all , 9/11 was an act of war against the USA too ....

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, Apr 10, 2017, at 1:16 PM
  • -- Posted by ~ Rick on Mon, Apr 10, 2017, at 1:11 PM

    No one seems to want to address the question of Gore/Bush. Was Gore just not worth it? I just find it strange all this new found anger. Maybe there was an understanding of the electoral vote then and got dumbed down since then.

    -- Posted by rocknroll on Mon, Apr 10, 2017, at 4:05 PM
  • Hillary Clinton may have received a Plurality of the votes, nobody really put any effort into checking into the illegal vote situation so do we really know if or not she did? But she definitely did not receive a majority of the the votes. No candidate did.

    One thing is a certainty. Trump won the election by the standards the game is played and the way it was set up by our founders and for good reason. When you take into consideration that Trump is No. 45 and 5 were elected with less than a plurality of votes.... 11.1% of our Presidents have been elected on an Electoral Vote basis only for at least one of their terms.

    -- Posted by Have_Wheels_Will_Travel on Mon, Apr 10, 2017, at 4:28 PM
  • Just received this:

    We moved all comments for Speak Out to the forum.

    You can join a thread or start a new one.

    Best,

    Lucas Presson

    Assistant publisher

    Southeast Missourian

    There it and there you are. Didn't ask if forums are now free. Seems the paper could have notified the readers.

    At least some have an understanding if the voting process,wheels. Too bad some keep falling back and complaining,er whining about it.

    -- Posted by rocknroll on Mon, Apr 10, 2017, at 5:04 PM
  • Ha ! I guessed right for a change . Even a blind hog can find an acorn

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, Apr 10, 2017, at 5:12 PM
  • Rock,

    That explains Speak Out. On the voting process, I think they understand it, they just don't like the way the chips fell for this election. And I am not sure if they sorted things out in California and took all of the people here illegally that she got even a plurality nationwide. Wish that was explored a little further, no a lot further.

    -- Posted by Have_Wheels_Will_Travel on Mon, Apr 10, 2017, at 5:14 PM
  • On the voting process, I think they understand it, they just don't like the way the chips fell for this election. -- Posted by Have_Wheels_Will_Travel on Mon, Apr 10, 2017, at 5:14 PM

    Theorist clearly doesn't understand it. The other day she posted that Trump shouldn't be president since more voted against him than for him.

    Then I pointed out that in 1992 Bill Clinton was elected with 45 Million votes "for" and 59 Million votes "against" him.

    Her response? Crickets... She's clueless.

    -- Posted by not_sorry on Mon, Apr 10, 2017, at 5:28 PM
  • Dug

    Everybody , well almost everybody , knows the voting rules before elections .

    It appears as tho a lot either have amnesia or just pout because their candidate didn't win . My opinion , it's obvious which of the two is happening .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, Apr 10, 2017, at 6:00 PM
  • The absolute dumbest comment about this election was a Trump won on a technicality.

    I propose rick be in charge of copying the days Speakout and posting it the forums. I would say T because she's up early but she's so ate up with her Dump On Trump I don't think she's up to it. As I have a subscription I wonder if the forums are now free so why pay? The news is usually old and repetitive for days.

    Side note: I was trying to type paste(ing) and the genie kept making it pasting which seemed odd but apparently is correct. Kinda like when I type (O)bama the genie keeps correcting it to obama,which is apparently correct.

    -- Posted by rocknroll on Mon, Apr 10, 2017, at 6:01 PM
  • My opinion , it's obvious which of the two is happening . -- Posted by ~ Rick on Mon, Apr 10, 2017, at 6:00 PM

    Agree!

    -- Posted by not_sorry on Mon, Apr 10, 2017, at 6:02 PM
  • China Tells North Korean Coal Ships To Go Home

    The move may be a sign Beijing is fed up with its nuclear neighbor.

    http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/china-north-korea-coal_us_58ec8316e4b0df7e20...

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Tue, Apr 11, 2017, at 10:53 AM
  • -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Tue, Apr 11, 2017, at 11:13 AM
  • Rick? Your opinion is yours...it is not correct in my case...

    -- Posted by Theorist on Tue, Apr 11, 2017, at 2:46 PM

    Sorry . I just assumed 9/11 was an attack on the USA which brought America into the Middle East Holy War .

    Perhaps you could clarify your case , I'm slow on the uptake you know..

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Tue, Apr 11, 2017, at 3:02 PM
  • "You know why know one honors your words?"

    Teacher that should be 'You know why NO one honors your words?'

    As a side note, I will trust what Dug posts over yours any day.

    -- Posted by Have_Wheels_Will_Travel on Tue, Apr 11, 2017, at 4:27 PM
  • You know why know one honors your words? Because you lie, a lot! This is another example. -- Posted by Theorist on Tue, Apr 11, 2017, at 2:46 PM

    Thanks for admitting you are ignoring that more people were against the man (Trump) than for him. -- Posted by Theorist on Wed, Apr 5, 2017, at 9:31 PM

    ===

    Thanks for the Speak Out forum where you can prove that Theorist is lying. There are your words Theorist.

    YOU are ignoring that more people were against Bill Clinton than for him. And yet Clinton - like Trump - was elected president.

    You're clueless. And lying again.

    -- Posted by not_sorry on Tue, Apr 11, 2017, at 4:55 PM
  • Thanks for admitting you are ignoring that more people were against the man (Trump) than for him. -- Posted by Theorist on Wed, Apr 5, 2017, at 9:31 PM

    Of course People ignore it , you are still grasping onto the total vote count as if it meant something which it doesn't except to those who were dedicated to Hillary Clinton . That's all it means which is faith in a person , it doesn't get them elected , it doesn't make them better . In this case , it meant more People voted to keep them out , People just refuse to accept that fact .

    People did not vote to put Trump in -- the same as you -- they voted to keep Clinton out -- what you did not .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Tue, Apr 11, 2017, at 6:43 PM
  • I'm proud I ignore it , why waste my time on nothing ?

    Things don't always go my way cause it isn't always about me , I don't always get what I want , I found this out long ago .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Tue, Apr 11, 2017, at 6:49 PM
  • Theorist

    Thanx for admitting you ignore Clinton lost 37 of the 50 States .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Tue, Apr 11, 2017, at 7:01 PM
  • I understand the need for military, but do not support unnecessary involvement, and seek to find a peaceful solution to problems.

    -- Posted by Theorist on Mon, Apr 10, 2017, at 11:15 AM

    Theorist: Now that sounds like the British Neville Chamberlain at the start of World War II and his policy of "appeasement"....time for the Snowflakes to find your safe places.

    -- Posted by Truth Slinger on Tue, Apr 11, 2017, at 7:05 PM
  • I don't see the need of spending billions and billions and billions of USA dollars to chase villains all over the Middle East . First it was Saddam Hussein in Desert Storm in Kuwait and then Saddam Hussein again Iraq . Then there was Moammar Gadhafi in Libya . Add Assad of Syria . ISIS who Obama see free . It's like trying to stomp out a spreading prairie fire , using tax money as feet . If/when Assad leaves Syria , who fills the void , who will be the next villain , how did this all play out after Saddam Hussein fell in Iraq? How's it playing out in Libya ?

    9/11 was one thing , an attack on the USA , there was a valid reason to go to Afghanistan and get Bin Laden . But the rest is flushing tax money down the drain . Will the latest missile strike get rid of Assad ? My money is on no .

    We need those billions and billions right here in the USA , invest it in infrastructure . Take care of Americans first , there's a hell of a lot of hungry , homeless , and sick Americans . How much of those billions of Defense dollars are taking care of our Vets?

    A person can't negotiate with a madman , that's a waste . The Peoples of the Middle East have been fighting every since Jesus Christ and Allah Akbar wore sandals , America's trillions or dollars over the years will not stop them . Get out , take care of Americans .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Tue, Apr 11, 2017, at 7:54 PM
  • Exactly what is the purpose of taking away the comment section on speak out?

    If you want to comment now you have create a thread. I guess I am not smart enough or something BC it makes no sense to me.

    We always move on when we get a new one so there will be a slew of threads that are just used for a few days. The forums will be a mess.

    Wonder who's brainchild this was?

    -- Posted by Iamhere on Tue, Apr 11, 2017, at 8:22 PM
  • -- Posted by semo471 on Tue, Apr 11, 2017, at 7:05 PM

    Semo471,

    Give us the scoop, have they changed the rules for the Forums and you do not need to be a subscriber or what is going on.

    -- Posted by Have_Wheels_Will_Travel on Tue, Apr 11, 2017, at 8:34 PM
  • -- Posted by Have_Wheels_Will_Travel on Tue, Apr 11, 2017, at 8:34 PM

    Wheels: I can access the forums on my smart phone but not on my lap top. So I don't know what is going on with the paper's policy.

    -- Posted by Truth Slinger on Tue, Apr 11, 2017, at 9:58 PM
  • Amazing. Thanks.

    -- Posted by Have_Wheels_Will_Travel on Tue, Apr 11, 2017, at 10:06 PM
  • They did vote to keep Clinton out. And I will be the first to point out that men feel threatened by a strong woman. No man on here will admit that...it is a "man" thing....misogyny. I think(and I am a woman, so I cannot say for sure what a man is feeling), that men think it insults their masculinity if a woman is their boss.....doing gender!

    ..........

    Yes People , men and women , voted to keep Clinton out of office . It is not just a "man" thing .

    I'm a man and have no problem with a woman being a Leader , not at all , many have been great Leaders , Hillary Clinton was not one . There is absolutely nothing wrong with a woman President , she isn't the one .

    I don't feel inferior to a woman being a Leader , what makes you believe I would ?

    "Each and every man and woman have equal rights to all things and are strong of mind and body"

    ~~ The Elders

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Tue, Apr 11, 2017, at 11:14 PM
  • Iamhere

    It's just my guess but I think the website is trying to isolate the bickering and poster attacks .

    But I've been wrong before..

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Tue, Apr 11, 2017, at 11:40 PM
  • My opinion , Nikki Haley would make an excellent Leader .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Wed, Apr 12, 2017, at 6:23 AM
  • It is all about control...you would think a newspaper would support 'free speech'. But maybe the paper is biased, and doesn't like the way the wind is blowing...

    -- Posted by Theorist on Wed, Apr 12, 2017, at 6:01 AM

    I agree .

    But those who deal the cards make the rules of the game .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Wed, Apr 12, 2017, at 6:25 AM
  • -- Posted by Theorist on Wed, Apr 12, 2017, at 6:02 AM

    Theorist: Wouldn't believe anything that the Clinton Network News says.

    -- Posted by Truth Slinger on Wed, Apr 12, 2017, at 7:45 AM
  • "It is all about control...you would think a newspaper would support 'free speech'."

    Speech is absolutely free to newspaper subscribers.

    One can look upon freedoms in many ways. But they are seldom free. Somebody is paying the price in one way or another.

    -- Posted by Have_Wheels_Will_Travel on Wed, Apr 12, 2017, at 7:59 AM
  • It is all about control...you would think a newspaper would support 'free speech'."

    Can't believe she said that. The SO free speech editor. 😊

    -- Posted by Iamhere on Wed, Apr 12, 2017, at 8:27 AM
  • I have now become an official poster! Had my first comment removed.

    Don't know why as I didn't cuss or call names. Not sure what the reason was.

    -- Posted by Iamhere on Wed, Apr 12, 2017, at 8:30 AM
  • -- Posted by Iamhere on Wed, Apr 12, 2017, at 8:30 AM

    Iam: Maybe Theorist got a 4th job being the S.O. grandmother.

    -- Posted by Truth Slinger on Wed, Apr 12, 2017, at 8:50 AM
  • Posted by semo471 on Wed, Apr 12, 2017, at 8:50 AM

    It wasn't anything that would offend any grandmother. It was to my stalker Tulip. Just a suggestion they seek help for mental issues.😀

    -- Posted by Iamhere on Wed, Apr 12, 2017, at 8:55 AM
  • If two people were running for Mayor of Cape Girardeau, and one man go decidedly more votes, he would win...no? -- Posted by Theorist on Tue, Apr 11, 2017, at 8:59 PM

    Not what you said liar. You said a majority voted against him.

    Crawdadding again, eh? You make a statement and then cower and run when called on it.

    So if you weren't saying Trump shouldn't be president because he received fewer votes, why did you point it out? Will you do your usual run-n-hide on this question? Why Theorist?

    -- Posted by not_sorry on Wed, Apr 12, 2017, at 9:14 AM
  • -- Posted by Theorist on Wed, Apr 12, 2017, at 9:24 AM

    And as I've explained to you that Bill Clinton wasn't the "favored", the "most popular", and more people voted for the other candidates...

    I would think you would have realized this! And I responded to the mayor post to remind you of your lies. :)

    -- Posted by not_sorry on Wed, Apr 12, 2017, at 9:34 AM
  • Thanks for admitting you are ignoring that more people were against the man (Trump) than for him. -- Posted by Theorist on Wed, Apr 5, 2017, at 9:31 PM

    Oh - Ok. Now I see you've shifted from pointing out that "more people were against the man than for him" since it doesn't always work to your advantage - e.g. Bill Clinton.

    So you'll have to use another narrative to criticize the legitimacy of Trump's presidency. Now don't deny you've posted tons of comments on how he isn't legitimate... that one (see above) won't work anymore. You'll have to slice it another way.

    -- Posted by not_sorry on Wed, Apr 12, 2017, at 9:57 AM
  • -- Posted by Iamhere on Wed, Apr 12, 2017, at 8:55 AM

    Iam, you just may have stepped on the toes of Speak Out's self appointed hall monitor and one of her sock puppets.

    -- Posted by Have_Wheels_Will_Travel on Wed, Apr 12, 2017, at 10:25 AM
  • They did vote to keep Clinton out. And I will be the first to point out that men feel threatened by a strong woman. -- Posted by Theorist on Tue, Apr 11, 2017, at 8:59 PM

    Sandra Day O'Connor - first woman to the Supreme Court - Ronald Reagan

    Condoleezza Rice, the first female National Security Adviser; Gale Norton, the first female Interior Secretary; and, Ann Veneman, the first female Agriculture Secretary - George Bush

    Sarah Palin - first woman governor of Alaska - Alaskan citizens

    The first woman chairman of a state committee of any major political party is a Republican – Elly Peterson of Michigan. (1965)

    The first woman to be the keynote speaker at a national convention of any major political party is a Republican – Anne Armstrong of Texas. (1972)

    In his first two years in office, President Reagan appoints more women to serve in top policy-making positions than any other president for a comparable period of time (105 positions).

    First woman as head of an executive department - Elizabeth Dole, Secretary of Transportation - Ronald Reagan

    ===

    Apparently "mysogyny" is a democrat problem? Another failed argument. 100's of more appointments, etc. that were FIRSTS by Republicans.

    -- Posted by not_sorry on Wed, Apr 12, 2017, at 10:36 AM
  • -- Posted by Dug on Wed, Apr 12, 2017, at 10:36 AM

    Dug,

    It is obvious... Theorist is a man hater. Maybe she married one she couldn't control.😊

    -- Posted by Have_Wheels_Will_Travel on Wed, Apr 12, 2017, at 10:54 AM
  • -- Posted by Have_Wheels_Will_Travel on Wed, Apr 12, 2017, at 10:54 AM

    She's definitely flailing her arms and yelling as loud as she can to try to justify in some way, some form, some reason that Hillary Clinton lost because it was rigged, the Constitution sucks (electoral college), men hate women, Russians colluded with Trump campaign, men from Mars zapped the election booths, etc.

    She's trying hard. Unfortunately it's all falling on deaf ears.

    -- Posted by not_sorry on Wed, Apr 12, 2017, at 11:03 AM
  • Now, out of TWO candidates, Hillary came in on top, but this is all water under the bridge now. Point being, Trump wasn't that popular to begin with, and he is even less popular now because....shall I start numerating the ways :)

    -- Posted by Theorist on Wed, Apr 12, 2017, at 9:44 AM

    Hillary did not come out on top , she is not the 45th President , Trump is . Hillary was rejected by 37 out of 50 States , by Law of the Constitution , she lost big time . You have got to let the vote count go , it looks foolish .

    Trump is not really popular then and he isn't now except he is the 45th President .

    So , you are right and you are wrong .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Wed, Apr 12, 2017, at 11:59 AM
  • -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Wed, Apr 12, 2017, at 12:09 PM
  • I can appreciate those who support Trump but I can not understand why . As of yet , his actions and words are scattered as buffalo shat all over the great grassy ...and begin to smell as such too . It is still early in his term , I give him this benefit of the doubt but where does the early limit end , at what point does the early end .

    It's still better then Hillary , no doubt . Her "Tah-tohn'-kah" shat has stunk for years and years....

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Wed, Apr 12, 2017, at 12:46 PM
  • Putin Meets With Tillerson in Russia After Keeping Him Waiting

    “This reminds me very much of the events of 2003, when U.S. representatives in the Security Council showed alleged chemical weapons discovered in Iraq,” Mr. Putin said, referring to an intelligence failure that Mr. Trump has also cited in recent months. “The exact same thing is happening now,” he charged.

    https://www.nytimes.com/2017/04/12/world/europe/tillerson-putin-lavrov-russia-sy...

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Wed, Apr 12, 2017, at 1:05 PM
  • Thanks Rick, I often think you speak foolishly, but I don't point that out as it is my opinion. I think you just did it again...

    .........

    Thnx...I think . I'm mixfused as to your meaning

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Wed, Apr 12, 2017, at 1:06 PM
  • Wheels gave up a long time ago. -- Posted by Theorist on Wed, Apr 12, 2017, at 12:48 PM

    I don't want to speak for Wheels but in my observation neither he or I have ever "given up" on your wild claims.

    I would vote for Trump tomorrow in a heartbeat over Hillary Clinton. Deficiencies and all. Keep pointing them out - you've lost the argument.

    When are you going to be "man" enough to realize that Bill Clinton was deficient and had more people vote against him than even Trump?

    -- Posted by not_sorry on Wed, Apr 12, 2017, at 1:07 PM
  • Wheels gave up a long time ago.

    -- Posted by Theorist on Wed, Apr 12, 2017, at 12:48 PM

    Wrong again quiz kid. Just because I refrain from responding to every dumb comment you make does not indicate surrender.

    When I look into someone's eyes or read their post and I see no sign of intelligent life, I may not respond.

    -- Posted by Have_Wheels_Will_Travel on Wed, Apr 12, 2017, at 1:14 PM
  • Theorist

    When you feel I'm being foolish say so , I'm a big boy and can take it , I'd rather know the truth anyway .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Wed, Apr 12, 2017, at 1:19 PM
  • Looks like Trump "got" the guy that killed the American border agent murdered with a gun that Obama/Holder gave out in their "Fast and Furious" gun giveaway.

    Funny how Obama could "get" bin Laden but couldn't "get" the guy who killed an American and was living next door in Mexico.

    Maybe he didn't want to remind everyone of his disastrous gun give away to cartels?

    -- Posted by not_sorry on Wed, Apr 12, 2017, at 7:23 PM
  • Hmm, Starting to sound like I may have been correct in thinking Trump was right in his tweet about Obama spying on him.

    Meanwhile, will Obama register as a representative of a foreign government to justify his visit with Merkel?

    -- Posted by Old John on Wed, Apr 12, 2017, at 9:26 PM
  • Old John

    No . Obama doesn't know his arse from a hole in the ground .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, Apr 13, 2017, at 1:07 AM
  • Dug

    The man cried over guns . Sobbed.

    Freakin' hypocrite to the masses of Obamberal freaks , they love him .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, Apr 13, 2017, at 1:11 AM
  • Meanwhile, will Obama register as a representative of a foreign government to justify his visit with Merkel?

    -- Posted by Old John on Wed, Apr 12, 2017, at 9:26 PM

    OJ: Obama is there to pick up a pay off check....that's what Obama has been doing with different countries since leaving office - it takes a lot of money to run a shadow government.

    -- Posted by Truth Slinger on Thu, Apr 13, 2017, at 7:25 AM
  • Freakin' hypocrite to the masses of Obamberal freaks , they love him . -- Posted by ~ Rick on Thu, Apr 13, 2017, at 1:11 AM

    Unbelievable isn't it? Then he gives out guns like candy to cartels in Mexico.

    -- Posted by not_sorry on Thu, Apr 13, 2017, at 8:16 AM
  • Growing into the job?

    "The first thing I brought up was North Korea. I said you've got to help us with North Korea, because we can't allow it. And it's not good for you. And you have a tremendous power because of trade. Now, he then explains thousands of years of history with Korea. Not that easy. In other words, not as simple as people would think. They've had tremendous conflict with Korea over the years."

    -- Posted by MicCheck2 on Thu, Apr 13, 2017, at 11:19 AM
  • Trump's dropping the MOAB today was perfect timing to kill ISIS members in Afghanistan and to send another signal to the world that a) we have weapons and b) we will use them when necessary.

    North Korea may move ahead with their 6th nuclear test in violation of international agreements - which Obama largely ignored. I wonder if Trump will respond. His strike in Syria and this massive bomb (largest non-nuclear we have) should have sent a message.

    Much more than an empty "red line" in Syria.

    -- Posted by not_sorry on Thu, Apr 13, 2017, at 12:06 PM
  • -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, Apr 13, 2017, at 1:48 PM
  • Why was this a foolish act Theorist? Surely you have some valid point to make for that statement.

    -- Posted by Have_Wheels_Will_Travel on Thu, Apr 13, 2017, at 2:11 PM
  • No Trump fan here , he's a little scattered for me .

    I will say , Putin has been the world's bully for years . He moves into any part of the world he chooses and says , "here I am " and proceeds to force his influence on that Society . Nobody has challenged him , he's had free will , as it were . Trump is unpredictable , he's already challenged Putin in Syria , it's like , "I don't care if you're there or not , this is what I'm doing." .

    Now one week later Trump drops the largest USA non-nuclear bomb on the Afghanistan/Pakistan border , not really all that far from the Ukraine and Balkans on that side of the world in the over all scope of things . (A nice sublime message to North Korea too , two strikes in two weeks against villains .) The USA Secretary of State had a meeting with Putin yesterday , the out come being , our relations are as low as they've been in a long time , if things don't change , they're going to get lower . Perhaps Putin has to deal with the unpredictable now , his days of world nefarious influence swagger slowing or becoming second guessing .

    One fact remains , Trump may be unpredictable and a loose cannon but he's way above Obama , it's not even close . Putin had Obama , and his unqualified and timid Secretary of State , for lunch . Obama couldn't , or wouldn't , even look the man in the eye .

    I'm positive the anti-Trump , "I love Hillary" People will be all over this , finding even more ways to label Trump the second coming of Lucifer himself . I don't agree with spending billions over seas but I do agree with standing up to Putin and staring him in the eye , no more backing down . Enough . Be unpredictable , a punch to the throat stops a bully every time .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, Apr 13, 2017, at 2:23 PM
  • Another foolish act by a fool. This is one of the many reasons he is not a qualified, or any other kind of leader. Stupidity at it's worst....I hope you have signed up to fight Dug, and are willing to send your sons and daughters.

    -- Posted by Theorist on Thu, Apr 13, 2017, at 2:06 PM

    Theorist

    As of yet it's been air strikes , not ground troops .

    If the previous unqualified Leader had stones , chances are these actions wouldn't be necessary . Obama was the one who said Kobe Bryant could be ISIS , Obama wasn't stupidity at it's worst , he was the definition of stupidity itself , him and his unqualified Secretary of State . The "Red Line" , remember , how did theirs work out , thousands more gassed ? I haven't seen a ground invasion yet , have you ?

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, Apr 13, 2017, at 2:31 PM
  • As I said , I'm positive the anti-Trump , "I love Hillary" People will be all over this , finding even more ways to label Trump the second coming of Lucifer himself .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, Apr 13, 2017, at 2:32 PM
  • Why not just assassinate Assad and get it over with ?

    Israel are masters of covert actions such at this while others take the blame , how cool would it be if Iran took the fall ?

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, Apr 13, 2017, at 2:34 PM
  • The world now is on notice that the Crawdad-In-Chief is gone and a Commander-In-Chief is on duty in the USA.

    -- Posted by Truth Slinger on Thu, Apr 13, 2017, at 3:10 PM
  • Rick, I totally agree with Trump not continuing to kiss Putin's rear like Obama.

    Obama was such a wuss and wouldn't back up what he said. He just cowered in the face of any challenge by Putin and let him have free reign!

    Anyone who doesn't back these moves either doesn't understand or are weak and whiney just like Obama! This wouldn't be happening if Obama hadn't made us look like Russia's doormat!

    We had lost a lot of respect from other countries.

    -- Posted by Iamhere on Thu, Apr 13, 2017, at 3:10 PM
  • Well crap! Now wikileaks are being used to attack Trump saying that it is a Russian backed intelligence.

    The whining will never stop!

    -- Posted by Iamhere on Thu, Apr 13, 2017, at 3:18 PM
  • Iamhere

    More and more Congressional "Democrats" are now backing Trump .

    Odd , no ?

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, Apr 13, 2017, at 3:32 PM
  • But Trump and Putin are "close" ..and Russia rigged the election so Trump would win -- collusion .

    Just watch the mass media , they know , they'll say it's so..

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, Apr 13, 2017, at 3:47 PM
  • Well crap! Now wikileaks are being used to attack Trump saying that it is a Russian backed intelligence.

    -- Posted by Iamhere on Thu, Apr 13, 2017, at 3:18 PM

    It's been public knowledge for months that Wikileaks published documents received from Russian spies. Previously unknown connections between Trump associates and Russians come to light seemingly everyday. This is anything new nor is it "an attack."

    http://www.startribune.com/cia-director-calls-wikileaks-hostile-intelligence-age...

    -- Posted by MicCheck2 on Thu, Apr 13, 2017, at 3:47 PM
  • I didn't vote for Trump , I wasn't snookered or duped . Didn't vote Clinton either , couldn't do that with a clear conscious .

    Faith Spotted Eagle .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, Apr 13, 2017, at 3:57 PM
  • MicCheck2

    Mass media has made it a point for these things to come to light ..dig , dig , dig ..it's there somewhere...it sells newspapers , it makes revenue..dig some more , it's caught some of the public's fascination

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, Apr 13, 2017, at 3:59 PM
  • Mass media has made it a point for these things to come to light

    -- Posted by ~ Rick on Thu, Apr 13, 2017, at 3:59 PM

    That's why we have the media and why an independent press is so important, so someone will dig to find the stuff that our leaders don't want us to know.

    -- Posted by MicCheck2 on Thu, Apr 13, 2017, at 4:04 PM
  • Obama tried to side up to Putin when he stated in an open mike that he would be able to do more after the election.

    From some of the things I have read, I think Michelle may have bigger stones than Barack.

    -- Posted by Have_Wheels_Will_Travel on Thu, Apr 13, 2017, at 4:47 PM
  • Well Theorist did her usual hit and run and is nowhere to explain what she mean by her statement. Short of some kind of explanation I think we can put that down as another Dump on Trump. Typical!

    -- Posted by Have_Wheels_Will_Travel on Thu, Apr 13, 2017, at 4:49 PM
  • -- Posted by Have_Wheels_Will_Travel on Thu, Apr 13, 2017, at 4:49 PM

    Geez, do you always have to make a snarky comment when someone doesn't reply to you within your expected timeline?

    No one owes you a response to begin with (a fact you're quick to point out when you think someone expects that of you), but declaring "victory" because someone hasn't posted within a few minutes or hours is the ultimate version of the pigeon on the chessboard.

    Get over yourself!

    -- Posted by MicCheck2 on Thu, Apr 13, 2017, at 4:56 PM
  • -- Posted by MicCheck2 on Thu, Apr 13, 2017, at 4:56 PM

    Still smarting from our last encounter toots? Trying to start another argument? Don't know that I was speaking to you or have to answer to you for any action I might decide to take. Kapeesh?

    -- Posted by Have_Wheels_Will_Travel on Thu, Apr 13, 2017, at 5:13 PM
  • -- Posted by Theorist on Thu, Apr 13, 2017, at 5:16 PM

    Theorist,

    I do not abide by your political correctness. You made a statement, called the President a fool and as usual split for parts unknown. If you are going to do your Dump on Trump then be prepared to answer questions.

    So far as putting money in the pot, get over yourself, you are not the only one contributing. I pay taxes and have every year for longer than I can remember, I am still contributing to SS and am paying taxes on what I receive from SS.

    And I legitimately took a deduction for the more than 10% I contributed to Church and Charity. Your whining is getting really stale.

    -- Posted by Have_Wheels_Will_Travel on Thu, Apr 13, 2017, at 5:56 PM
  • Theorist

    Your idol talked for 8 years and nothing happened. Public opinion says you are wrong. Obama made a horrible deal with Iran and now his successor gets to deal with that along with N. Korea, China, Russia and Syria, not to mention ISIS, which formed and grew under Obama.

    Don't bet on the no plan idea, you are dealing with a man who was very successful in comparison with Obama who did virtually nothing before being assigned to the most powerful position on earth.

    Trump has to bring back respect for the position with the rest of the world. You are the fool when you misjudge Trump.

    -- Posted by Have_Wheels_Will_Travel on Thu, Apr 13, 2017, at 7:48 PM
  • He is trying to stop more children from dying agonizing deaths from poison gas!

    Maybe he should do nothing like Obama. At least he made a statement to Assad that he won't back down like Obama the bootlicker!

    -- Posted by Iamhere on Thu, Apr 13, 2017, at 8:15 PM
  • I am heading out of town tomorrow will be back Sat.

    Everyone play nice and be safe if you are traveling this weekend!

    -- Posted by Iamhere on Thu, Apr 13, 2017, at 8:21 PM
  • Something that has me mixfused .

    ISIS hot spot is in the Middle East , Mosul , Raqqa , Idlib -- where the chemical attack happened that caused the missile strike . How did Afghanistan suddenly become a flash point , isn't this a detour of where the real urgent issues are ?

    Why would ISIS in Afghanistan suddenly take priority over the ISIS in the Middle East that's been terrorizing Europe and claimed it's own territory and State over the past 3 years .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, Apr 13, 2017, at 8:22 PM
  • -- Posted by Iamhere on Thu, Apr 13, 2017, at 8:21 PM

    No Louisiana hot sauce on your Easter Eggs.

    -- Posted by Have_Wheels_Will_Travel on Thu, Apr 13, 2017, at 8:35 PM
  • Poppy is one of Afghanistan's major exports , the ingredient for heroin , opioids , pain pills , etc .

    The Taliban are very Conservative and strictly against poppy plants , they attack Afghan villages and destroy all of their poppy fields , it keeps the villagers dependent on the Taliban plus hurts the Afghanistan economy .

    One of the USA Military missions is to guard the Afghan villagers and their crops to help keep them independent from the Taliban and boost Afghanistan's economy , so basically , the USA Soldiers are helping export the ingredient for heroin , opioids , pain pills , etc . All are at an epidemic in the USA at this time .

    ............

    USA Soldiers guarding poppy fields in Afghanistan :

    http://new.euro-med.dk/wp-content/uploads/soldiers-guarding-opium-fields.gif

    https://i.ytimg.com/vi/qW2YWqVpT4E/maxresdefault.jpg

    https://rainbowwarrior2005.files.wordpress.com/2009/11/201109top.jpg

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, Apr 13, 2017, at 8:55 PM
  • He is trying to start wars, foolish! -- Posted by Theorist on Thu, Apr 13, 2017, at 7:22 PM

    Good thing you weren't around when Hitler was murdering millions. We'd all be speaking German and yelling "Heil Hitler!".

    You always let your love-of-party get in the way of the truth and doing the right thing. I think you - like Commie - have found your Messiah. And his name is Barack Hussein Obama.

    -- Posted by not_sorry on Thu, Apr 13, 2017, at 9:22 PM
  • -- Posted by Theorist on Thu, Apr 13, 2017, at 7:22 PM

    Theorist: Careful sounds like you are close to having a meltdown. Seek help little Snowflake before it's too late.

    -- Posted by Truth Slinger on Thu, Apr 13, 2017, at 9:44 PM
  • He is trying to start wars, foolish! -- Posted by Theorist on Thu, Apr 13, 2017, at 7:22 PM

    They've already been started and have been going on for a few years . Actually , Hillary was mixed in with them too as Secretary of State .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, Apr 13, 2017, at 9:51 PM
  • "I understand defense, I understand protecting/aiding humanity. Totally against aggression..."

    Theorist,

    You understand all of that?

    What part of standing up to an evil dictator who uses poison gas on defenseless children don't you understand?

    What part of Obama taking out an American citizen without a trial by use of drone is wrong, didn't you understand?

    If you are expecting our Commander in Chief to go on an Obama style apology tour, instead of defending kids when International Law is broken, you understand nothing!

    -- Posted by Have_Wheels_Will_Travel on Fri, Apr 14, 2017, at 8:25 AM
  • He is trying to stop more children from dying agonizing deaths from poison gas!

    -- Posted by Iamhere on Thu, Apr 13, 2017, at 8:15 PM

    Yes, that's why he is increasing the number of Syrian refugees the U.S. will be accepting this year.

    Oh....wait a minute. Is that right?

    -- Posted by MicCheck2 on Fri, Apr 14, 2017, at 9:25 AM
  • Semo...old hands over old ears...no understanding or rational thought processes coming from you.

    -- Posted by Theorist on Fri, Apr 14, 2017, at 8:06 AM

    Theorist: The same could be said of you little Snowflake. You sure have shown your ugly side since Hillary's defeat. Now do the crawdad and go to your safe place....BTW, take the other Snowflake Mic2 with you.

    -- Posted by Truth Slinger on Fri, Apr 14, 2017, at 11:03 AM
  • Dug...didn't see where you answered my question about serving or sending your sons and daughters... -- Posted by Theorist on Fri, Apr 14, 2017, at 8:06 AM

    My sons and daughters DID serve for years and deployed to Afghanistan. And CHOSE infantry to patrol and be on the ground rather than sit behind a desk. Good friend and roommate lost both legs while he was there. What's your next "tough" question?

    Did YOU serve? Can you only discuss American politics and security if you served? What a BS deflection point from another far-left democrat.

    Now to answer your own question.

    -- Posted by not_sorry on Fri, Apr 14, 2017, at 11:59 AM
  • Rick...we are not AT war. I understand defense, I understand protecting/aiding humanity. Totally against aggression...

    .............

    Disagree . The Afghanistan War is the longest War in the history of the United States of America .

    The USA has never fully pulled out of the Iraq War , it's still fighting , especially in the western provinces against terrorist , ISIS/al Qaeda , in Mosul and along the Syrian border .

    "If the Iraq and Afghanistan Wars are not over by the time I'm President , the first thing I will do is bring those boys home . And you can take that to the bank ."

    ~~ Barack Obama , 2007 Campaign Promise

    ..........

    "As Commander in Chief , I have decided it's in the best of our National Security and our allies to send a 30,000 troup surge into Afghanistan."

    ~~ Barack Obama , December 2010

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Fri, Apr 14, 2017, at 12:08 PM
  • As Obama’s Tenure Ends, U.S. Wars Drag On

    KABUL, Afghanistan — Defense Secretary Ash Carter's visit to Afghanistan on Tuesday completed an extensive world tour of U.S. war policy, one that began Friday at a NATO summit in Warsaw to help celebrate the Cold War-era alliance's newfound relevance before continuing on with a surprise trip to meet with counterparts in Iraq. His trek culminated here, the heart of America's longest conflict.

    Along the way, Carter has solidified through promises and plans what most Americans have feared since the rise of the Islamic State group and the resurgence of Taliban aggression, both amid political upheaval throughout the region: that President Barack Obama cannot follow through on his campaign pledges to end U.S. wars in the Middle East.

    [READ: U.S. Will Deploy 560 More Troops to Iraq]

    In truth, these conflicts are ramping up in intensity. And from Carter's perspective, there's no immediate end in sight to America's participation.

    Iraq, for example, has witnessed the continual slow trickle of U.S. advisers and special operations troops back into training bases and combat operations. Carter's announcement this week in Baghdad that the U.S. will deploy 560 additional troops raises the total number of American forces in the country to 4,657.

    https://www.usnews.com/news/articles/2016-07-14/as-obamas-term-ends-us-wars-in-a...

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Fri, Apr 14, 2017, at 12:16 PM
  • Theorist

    Again , Hillary was mixed in with them too as Secretary of State . Her actions failed as a negotiator to peace .....

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Fri, Apr 14, 2017, at 12:20 PM
  • This whole fiasco with the two live bodies on here who will stop at nothing to Dump on Trump. That is their agenda and they have been working it since Nov 9, 2016, Our country matters not. Why would we want to relocate those people over here when they would prefer to stay in their own country. Go replay the CNN program of a few days ago when this goofy woman thought she could lead the refugee into doing a Dump on Trump and he turned the tables on her. All she could do was strand there and look like the two girls on here. Not so bright.

    Do it the Obama way and we will be living the current wars through the balance of this century.

    -- Posted by Have_Wheels_Will_Travel on Fri, Apr 14, 2017, at 12:23 PM
  • -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Fri, Apr 14, 2017, at 12:36 PM
  • I can't help myself , I repeat myself , but if Obama/Clinton had taken the radical terrorist seriously from the get go , there might not be the cluster **** going on now .

    Obama's response from the get go was , "ISIL is a JV Team , they couldn't beat Kobe Bryant." What kind of a person says these things ? One who should never have been a Commander in Chief or Leader of the Peoples , is who .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Fri, Apr 14, 2017, at 12:45 PM
  • Obama's response from the get go was , "ISIL is a JV Team , they couldn't beat Kobe Bryant."

    -- Posted by ~ Rick on Fri, Apr 14, 2017, at 12:45 PM

    It's almost as if circumstances change over time and something that someones can be true at one point in time but not true later.

    Weird, isn't it?

    -- Posted by MicCheck2 on Fri, Apr 14, 2017, at 1:03 PM
  • -- Posted by ~ Rick on Fri, Apr 14, 2017, at 12:36 PM

    Rick that is the one. The refugees really don't want to be here, but the nutcases in this country and around the world are dedicated to relocating them while refusing to tell the abusers as Obama would say.... Cut it out! Only back up your order with action if it wasn't obeyed.

    Obama really straightened out Putin didn't he?

    -- Posted by Have_Wheels_Will_Travel on Fri, Apr 14, 2017, at 1:03 PM
  • "Obama's response from the get go was , "ISIL is a JV Team , they couldn't beat Kobe Bryant.""

    Yes Rick, shows what an incompetent excuse for a leader he was.

    -- Posted by Have_Wheels_Will_Travel on Fri, Apr 14, 2017, at 1:11 PM
  • "It's almost as if circumstances change over time and something that someones can be true at one point in time but not true later."

    What is that supposed to mean?

    -- Posted by Old John on Fri, Apr 14, 2017, at 1:41 PM
  • -- Posted by Old John on Fri, Apr 14, 2017, at 1:41 PM

    Old John,

    It is a bunch of double talk. The truth is they were never a JV team, it a stupid comparison. Put three of those crazies together with their propensity to chop off heads and force people to their knees before they shoot them in the back and a basketball team couldn't hold a candle to them.

    -- Posted by Have_Wheels_Will_Travel on Fri, Apr 14, 2017, at 1:47 PM
  • What is that supposed to mean?

    -- Posted by Old John on Fri, Apr 14, 2017, at 1:41 PM

    Sorry, I left out a word.

    Let me try again:

    It's almost as if circumstances change over time and something that someones SAYS can be true at one point in time but not true later.

    -- Posted by MicCheck2 on Fri, Apr 14, 2017, at 1:50 PM
  • It's almost as if circumstances change over time and something that someones can be true at one point in time but not true later.

    Weird, isn't it?

    -- Posted by MicCheck2 on Fri, Apr 14, 2017, at 1:03 PM

    The truth always comes out in the end , the Blind Faith either can't or refuse to accept it .

    Weird, isn't it?

    ...............

    President Obama finds his own past statements coming back to haunt him.

    September 09, 2014

    Obama Likens ISIS to ‘J.V. Team’

    President Obama described the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria, as the Sunni militant group was widely known at the time, as a junior varsity basketball team, playing down the strategic threat posed by the ISIS, compared with Al Qaeda.

    “The analogy we use around here sometimes, and I think is accurate, is if a J.V. team puts on Lakers uniforms, that doesn’t make them Kobe Bryant,” Mr. Obama told David Remnick of The New Yorker.

    That same month, ISIS seized Falluja, a city in Anbar Province, Iraq, and parts of Ramadi, the province's capital.

    President Obama said Monday that “we don’t have, yet, a complete strategy” to confront the threat posed by the Islamic State, also known as ISIS or ISIL. The president acknowledged in a news conference after the summit meeting of the Group of 7 that almost a year and a half after the United States and its allies began confronting the Islamic State, “the details are not worked out.”

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Fri, Apr 14, 2017, at 2:13 PM
  • ..and the growing unrest grows ...

    ...............

    Man accused in gun theft and sending Trump anti-government manifesto arrested after manhunt

    MILWAUKEE — A fugitive accused of stealing numerous weapons from a Wisconsin gun store and sending an anti-government manifesto to the White House was arrested Friday after nine days on the run, sheriff’s officials said.

    More than 150 law enforcement officials had been searching for Jakubowski, 32, since April 4 when authorities say he broke into a gun store in Janesville, about 110 kilometres southwest of Milwaukee.

    The sheriff’s office said Jakubowski filmed a video of himself dropping his manifesto, addressed to Trump, into a mailbox and speaking of a “revolution” before the manhunt began. He warned in the video that whoever received the manifesto “might want to read it.”

    On Thursday, WTMJ-TV posted 35 pages of handwritten documents to its website that it said were an unidentified law enforcement official verified as Jakubowski’s writings. Rock County Sheriff’s Office Commander Troy Knudson said the writings appeared genuine.

    http://news.nationalpost.com/news/world/man-accused-in-gun-theft-and-sending-tru...

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Fri, Apr 14, 2017, at 2:17 PM
  • The truth always comes out in the end , the Blind Faith either can't or refuse to accept it .-- Posted by ~ Rick on Fri, Apr 14, 2017, at 2:13 PM

    Or "the truth" changes over time.

    Just because I say "It's raining" today and you decide to quote me 6 months later on a sunny day doesn't make my statement any less true today.

    -- Posted by MicCheck2 on Fri, Apr 14, 2017, at 2:23 PM
  • I know you have some weird vendetta against me, MicCheck2 , but making crap up just makes you look stupid.

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Fri, Apr 14, 2017, at 2:40 PM
  • I know you have some weird vendetta against me, MicCheck2 , but making crap up just makes you look stupid.

    -- Posted by ~ Rick on Fri, Apr 14, 2017, at 2:40 PM

    Oh my goodness! You just copied something I said and pasted it when you couldn't actually think of a genuine response to the point I made.

    That certainly doesn't make you look stupid at all!

    I remember when you used to be open minded and willing to learn new things; when did you decide you know everything and never make mistakes?

    -- Posted by MicCheck2 on Fri, Apr 14, 2017, at 2:49 PM
  • Even more stranger by the post , a strong vendetta indeed . Every time I turn around , it's in my face .

    Lemme me tell ya something chump , I have a strong dislike , distrust , and disgust for anyone who bans me . Call it a vendetta , call it what ever you want . Far as I care you're a piece of dog **** on the bottom of my shoe . I'm gonna be on your *** about everything ...

    So , genius , let your dim light shine .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Fri, Apr 14, 2017, at 3:01 PM
  • Lemme me tell ya something chump , I have a strong dislike , distrust , and disgust for anyone who bans me -- Posted by ~ Rick on Fri, Apr 14, 2017, at 3:01 PM

    I don't have the power to ban you.

    If you were banned, if was because the moderators decided your behavior didn't meet the guidelines.

    Blaming me for your actions or their decision definitely doesn't make you look any better.

    I'm gonna be on your *** about everything ...

    -- Posted by ~ Rick on Fri, Apr 14, 2017, at 3:01 PM

    Vendettas aren't healthy, Rick. You should move on with your life.

    -- Posted by MicCheck2 on Fri, Apr 14, 2017, at 3:17 PM
  • -- Posted by ~ Rick on Fri, Apr 14, 2017, at 3:01 PM

    Rick,

    You have a know it all on your hands who tries her very best to always put people down and have the last word.

    Tell her to kiss off and get on with life.

    -- Posted by Have_Wheels_Will_Travel on Fri, Apr 14, 2017, at 3:37 PM
  • -- Posted by Have_Wheels_Will_Travel on Fri, Apr 14, 2017, at 3:37 PM

    Wheels: Agree.

    Rick, she is just baiting you. Wheels has some good advice - "Tell her to kiss off and get on with life."

    -- Posted by Truth Slinger on Fri, Apr 14, 2017, at 3:50 PM
  • who tries her very best to always put people down

    -- Posted by Have_Wheels_Will_Travel on Fri, Apr 14, 2017, at 3:37 PM

    There is no way you can be talking about anyone but yourself with that statement.

    Almost every single one of your posts is an insult about someone else.

    -- Posted by MicCheck2 on Fri, Apr 14, 2017, at 3:55 PM
  • Hey it's fixed.

    -- Posted by Have_Wheels_Will_Travel on Mon, Apr 17, 2017, at 8:53 AM
  • 😊😚

    -- Posted by Have_Wheels_Will_Travel on Mon, Apr 17, 2017, at 8:53 AM
  • Nothing suspicious about it. If you Googled the Error Code you would see it was a server problem.

    -- Posted by Have_Wheels_Will_Travel on Mon, Apr 17, 2017, at 9:02 AM
  • My pertinent point is...your perception and opinion is allowed, and I will point out when/where I believe you are wrong. You should allow me the same!!

    -- Posted by Theorist on Fri, Apr 14, 2017, at 4:43 PM

    Theorist, I think your post was the problem. When the Server read the part where you gave Rick the right to an opinion.... it died laughing at you. Then all of us were punished.

    😂😂😂😂😂

    -- Posted by Have_Wheels_Will_Travel on Mon, Apr 17, 2017, at 9:06 AM
  • I also googled it and it said something about missing DLL files so I knew it was the server.

    -- Posted by Iamhere on Mon, Apr 17, 2017, at 9:18 AM
  • Iam

    Theorist must think it was a plot to keep her from posting the daily propaganda from the DNC.

    Got to admit, there was a minute or so there where I thought we would never be "informed" again. I mean how would I live without the near daily Dump on Trump. 😂😂😂😂😎

    -- Posted by Have_Wheels_Will_Travel on Mon, Apr 17, 2017, at 9:27 AM
  • Has anyone seen Theorist? She asked about "service" expecting answers and got them but somehow refuses to answer the same question. Let me repeat Theorist:

    Did YOU serve? Can you only discuss American politics and security if you served? What a BS deflection point from another far-left democrat. -- Posted by Dug on Fri, Apr 14, 2017, at 11:59 AM

    -- Posted by not_sorry on Mon, Apr 17, 2017, at 9:31 AM
  • Rick...you knew I wouldn't let all of that pass...you get ticked off when I point out Trump's daily deficiencies, but the truth is, you are still trying to point out what you perceive to be Obama's mistakes.

    My pertinent point is...your perception and opinion is allowed, and I will point out when/where I believe you are wrong. You should allow me the same!!

    -- Posted by Theorist on Fri, Apr 14, 2017, at 4:43 PM

    I'm sorry , you're right , I should give your opinion more consideration . But , you claim I have a "perceive to be Obama's mistakes" while you "point out Trump's daily deficiencies" , in other words , mine would only be opinion while yours fact . This is not being fair in my opinion , they're either both perceived or they're both fact .

    I look at it like this , Bill Clinton's actions determined the who the next President would be , BushII's actions determined who the next President would be , so Obama's actions determined who the President is now .

    Although I've made it no secret I believe Obama is the worse President in the History of the United States of America , I've also posted many times Trump is a loud mouth bull bigot .

    You see , I'm an Independent .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, Apr 17, 2017, at 9:35 AM
  • Wheels

    Your e-mail Friday was spot on

    Thnx

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, Apr 17, 2017, at 9:39 AM
  • Rick,

    No problem. Have a great day.

    -- Posted by Have_Wheels_Will_Travel on Mon, Apr 17, 2017, at 9:45 AM
  • I will point out when/where I believe you are wrong. You should allow me the same

    ...........

    Yes ! Please do . I respect your opinion if you believe it or not .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, Apr 17, 2017, at 9:45 AM
  • *

    My first knee jerk reaction to Jon Rust's new policy was to delete my acct. Then I started thinking that it really won't change my posting at all. I have been totally honest about who I am as a person and honest about my life. So there is no reason to not post.

    Some however will probably not be back due to them not being honest and having an online alter ego that they hid behind and by using their real name that others may recognize and then will know they haven't been truthful.

    I am glad that this should stop the attacks and trolling by those who seemed to take advantage of the anonymity to be hateful and mean.

    I guess we will see. Until then Iamstillhere. 😁😁

    -- Posted by Karen Jones on Mon, Apr 17, 2017, at 4:01 PM
  • *

    Well..... Rick are we the only ones left? I had hoped Wheels and Semo would stick with us.

    Doubt you will hear from Theo or mischick. Somehow I don't see that happening.

    -- Posted by Karen Jones on Mon, Apr 17, 2017, at 8:54 PM
  • Iamstillhere

    I guess so far we're the guinea pigs .

    I have to go find my avatar again , it disappeared into the stratosphere somewhere ☺

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Tue, Apr 18, 2017, at 4:00 PM
  • Welcome to the new fangled Speak Out ☺

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Tue, Apr 18, 2017, at 6:59 PM
  • Actually , I used my name when I first started posting but Wheels and Turnip told it wasn't such a smart thing to do so I just always used Rick instead .

    It already has my pic with my posts but if they start demanding SSN#'s and phone numbers then there's gonna be a problem .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Tue, Apr 18, 2017, at 10:11 PM
  • Here's another new fangled thing they added too :

    http://www.semissourian.com/forms/story

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Tue, Apr 18, 2017, at 10:16 PM
  • Semo

    Have you heard anything from Wheels ?

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Wed, Apr 19, 2017, at 7:27 AM
  • *

    OOPS!! I see Theorist got banned! All comments are gone and I think I did it by accident!

    I mentioned in comments on Jon Rust's story that someone named Lauren had intentionally misspelled their last name as Joens and BAM!! Theo was gone!

    I can't win for losing! She will blame me sure but how was I supposed to know?

    Still can't help but laugh! Sorry girl!

    -- Posted by Karen Jones on Wed, Apr 19, 2017, at 10:54 AM
  • *

    Was he the Blake Edwards that posted Rick? He got banned the posts are gone from him.

    Speaking of where did my post go? Hey now I didn't break any rules!

    Rick did you do that? The truth now.

    -- Posted by Karen Jones on Wed, Apr 19, 2017, at 11:06 AM
  • Karen

    I've never asked for any post or poster to be removed . Ever . I've always believed in Free Speech .

    I believe Blake was semo471 , not too sure what went on there , I dunno how he could have been banned , maybe he didn't follow those new fangled rules to the "T" or figured heck with it . Theorist is the only original poster I see gone , not sure about her either , she did post several times how much she liked her anonymity , maybe she just figured to heck with it too . Then again , maybe a lot are just waiting for the dust to settle and see how all this plays out .

    I sure didn't click on any yellow exclamation point at the end of your posts , that ain't me ...

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Wed, Apr 19, 2017, at 11:47 AM
  • *

    It is beginning to look as though I may be the only one upfront and truthful on here. I am hoping that this isn't the case.

    Wheels and Semo come on! Don't totally abandon us!😁

    -- Posted by Karen Jones on Wed, Apr 19, 2017, at 11:55 AM
  • *

    Rick I was just kidding. Sorry should have put a smiley face or something. I know how you feel about people reporting.

    No harm no foul!😁

    -- Posted by Karen Jones on Wed, Apr 19, 2017, at 12:33 PM
  • ☺☺

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Wed, Apr 19, 2017, at 12:58 PM
  • *

    Good morning children.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Thu, Apr 20, 2017, at 8:17 AM
  • And to you , sir !

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, Apr 20, 2017, at 8:52 AM
  • *

    😊😎

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Thu, Apr 20, 2017, at 9:13 AM
  • My, my, my. Certainly quiet around here.

    -- Posted by Donna Runnels on Thu, Apr 20, 2017, at 9:38 AM
  • Thought I would give it a try. :)

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Thu, Apr 20, 2017, at 9:55 AM
  • *

    -- Posted by Donna Runnels on Thu, Apr 20, 2017, at 9:38 AM

    We're all very quiet and polite people from the Midwest. We're so cool, butter wouldn't melt in our mouth.

    Believe that and I will sell you my bridge.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Thu, Apr 20, 2017, at 10:13 AM
  • Donna

    Don't be bashful , has it stopped you before in life ?

    ...........

    R. W. Bess

    Hope it worked out for the best .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, Apr 20, 2017, at 12:45 PM
  • *

    Everyone gets a new start on here....don't mess it up.😁

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Thu, Apr 20, 2017, at 1:30 PM
  • The cult of ignorance in the United States: Anti-intellectualism and the "dumbing down" of America

    "In American schools, the culture exalts the athlete and good-looking cheerleader. Well-educated and intellectual students are commonly referred to in public schools and the media as "nerds," "dweebs," "dorks," and "geeks," and are relentlessly harassed and even assaulted by the more popular "jocks" for openly displaying any intellect."

    "There's a pervasive suspicion of rights, privileges, knowledge and specialization," says Catherine Liu, the author of American Idyll: Academic Antielitism as Cultural Critique and a film and media studies professor at University of California. The very mission of universities has changed, argues Liu. "We don't educate people anymore. We train them to get jobs."

    https://www.sott.net/article/313177-The-cult-of-ignorance-in-the-United-States-A...

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, Apr 20, 2017, at 5:39 PM
  • Rick, I read that article and don't think a film and media studies professor at University of California or the others cited as experts are any more knowledgeable on the subject than you or I.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Thu, Apr 20, 2017, at 6:05 PM
  • R. W.

    I've been dumbed down enough for anybody to be more knowledgeable then me on just about anything .

    I was looking at the over-all picture of things myself , sort of like the "pervasive suspicion of rights, privileges, knowledge and specialization" part . People don't have to earn them now , it's more affirmative action type deals .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, Apr 20, 2017, at 6:28 PM
  • *

    Well now! Business is picking up! More are "testing the water". I thought Rick and I were left high and dry but I guess not.

    We have to be good and play nice or we will get spanked!😁😁

    -- Posted by Karen Jones on Fri, Apr 21, 2017, at 9:10 AM
  • *

    Good morning from mile high Denver! Girlfriend and I are out here visting our 6 month pregnant daughter. Everybody back in SEMO stay dry.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Fri, Apr 21, 2017, at 9:11 AM
  • Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, Apr 20, 2017, at 5:39 PM

    Is the author trying to say this is something new? BTW-what is wrong with training people to get jobs? Are we supposed to educate them to not work? Even Sheldon Cooper has a job.

    -- Posted by Donna Runnels on Fri, Apr 21, 2017, at 1:59 PM
  • *

    Posted by David Schaefer on Fri, Apr 21, 2017, at 9:11 AM

    Enjoy!! Have a good visit and be safe while traveling!

    -- Posted by Karen Jones on Fri, Apr 21, 2017, at 2:37 PM
  • *

    -- Posted by Karen Jones on Fri, Apr 21, 2017, at 2:37 PM

    Iamhere: Thanks. Yesterday was 4/20 Day (national weed day)....hope nobody thought we flew out here for it.😁😁

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Fri, Apr 21, 2017, at 5:28 PM
  • Donna Runnels

    There is nothing wrong with training , even animals can be trained to do things . When "intelligence" is given away instead of earned or not self initiated , it is dumbed downed . Affirmative Action might make Society more comfortable , but it doesn't make a Society more intelligence . If a person wants to learn they will , it doesn't matter their sex , race , or age .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Fri, Apr 21, 2017, at 9:20 PM
  • I get a kick out a Goodwill radio ad that talks about finding jobs in things that can be donated. It ends by saying they sell your old things to provide job training and that is how your old stuff creates jobs. Yeah right jobs for job trainers maybe but jobs are not created with education or training. Education and job training may allow those seeking a job to qualify for a better job but the job creation comes from free enterprise and capitalism.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Fri, Apr 21, 2017, at 9:42 PM
  • I'm dumb enough to admit I don't know who Sheldon Cooper is..

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Fri, Apr 21, 2017, at 10:21 PM
  • War on campus

    The escalating battle over college free speech

    http://www.cnn.com/2017/04/20/us/campus-free-speech-trnd/index.html

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sat, Apr 22, 2017, at 8:38 AM
  • That "Mother Of All Bombs" worked out just fine and dandy .

    ............

    Taliban kill 140 Afghan troops in army base attack

    As many 140 Afghan soldiers were killed on Friday by Taliban attackers apparently disguised in military uniforms in what would be the deadliest attack ever on an Afghan military base, officials said.

    http://gulfnews.com/news/asia/afghanistan/taliban-kill-140-afghan-troops-in-army...

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sat, Apr 22, 2017, at 8:49 AM
  • *

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sat, Apr 22, 2017, at 8:38 AM

    How did these students become so radicalized in the first place?

    If public funded universities will not allow free speech and cannot maintain order, then it is time to stop the funding.

    Allow these young radical's parents the right to fund their children's education without the help of non radicalized taxpayers.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Sat, Apr 22, 2017, at 9:14 AM
  • It's a shame when People can't sit down and talk Freely without being at each other's throats over trivial non-sense that has nothing to do with education .

    And yeah , if People want to behave like kids , treat them like kids , take away their allowance . What kind of lesson are they really learning here to begin with ?

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sat, Apr 22, 2017, at 10:24 AM
  • Guess I'm stubborn because I still believe a whole lot of this is due to that "Fundamentally Change of America" from 2008 .

    I wasn't around during the 1850's era of the USA but I can understand the juxtapose to 2016 USA . As the Elders say , "Life is a circle , what has happened before will happen again ."

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sat, Apr 22, 2017, at 10:54 AM
  • "...lot of this is due to..."

    Makes a difference if you recall what was actually said...

    Here’s Obama’s original statement, in an October 2008 campaign visit to Columbia, Mo:

    "Now, Mizzou, I just have two words for you tonight: five days. Five days. After decades of broken politics in Washington, and eight years of failed policies from George W. Bush, and 21 months of a campaign that's taken us from the rocky coast of Maine to the sunshine of California, we are five days away from fundamentally transforming the United States of America.

    "In five days, you can turn the page on policies that put greed and irresponsibility on Wall Street before the hard work and sacrifice of folks on Main Street. In five days, you can choose policies that invest in our middle class, and create new jobs, and grow this economy, so that everyone has a chance to succeed, not just the CEO, but the secretary and janitor, not just the factory owner, but the men and women on the factory floor."

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Sat, Apr 22, 2017, at 11:10 AM
  • -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Sat, Apr 22, 2017, at 11:10 AM

    A lot of awesome words there. Unfortunately you left out some others:

    “The fact that we are here today to debate raising America’s debt limit is a sign of leadership failure,” Obama said. “It is a sign that the U.S. government can’t pay its own bills. It is a sign that we now depend on ongoing financial assistance from foreign countries to finance our government’s reckless fiscal policies.”

    "Increasing the U.S. government’s ability to borrow ever greater sums weakens us domestically and internationally. Leadership means that ‘the buck stops here.’ Instead, Washington is shifting the burden of bad choices today onto the backs of our children and grandchildren. America has a debt problem and a failure of leadership. Americans deserve better.” - Barack Hussein Obama

    ===

    Who then went on to more than double the US debt from what it was on that day.

    Words, words, words... it works for democrats.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Sat, Apr 22, 2017, at 11:18 AM
  • Rick Lettau

    I recall what was actually said and still believe it makes a whole lot of difference in what is happening now . Perhaps you might recall what was said about having , or saving , a personal Legacy during the year 2016 too?

    Bill Clinton's actions determined who the next President would be , Bush the second's actions determined who the next President would be , Obama's actions determined who the President is now .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sat, Apr 22, 2017, at 2:31 PM
  • Rick Lettau

    Make no mistake , I'm an Independent , this is fact . I will say it as I see it , for 8 years of Obama this Nation spiraled . So far Trump has been a fumble butt , it will take years to get back out .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sat, Apr 22, 2017, at 2:35 PM
  • Look Who Just Blamed Obama For The Failure of Democrats

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AKxl5AliER4

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sat, Apr 22, 2017, at 3:12 PM
  • I don't concur with the maker of the video or his opinions , he's Free to speak his piece . I only use that video as an example of the effects of an 8 year Obama spiral on this Nation , Racism , Religious hatred , and the abyss of ideologies . Actually , the term "legacy" was used more then once .

    I stick with my opinion , it will take years to recover from the Obama fundamental change to the Nation .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sat, Apr 22, 2017, at 3:32 PM
  • I believe Mr. Lettau is Mr. Commie. Looks like he decided to join up.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Sat, Apr 22, 2017, at 3:51 PM
  • “…debt limit is a sign of leadership failure…”

    Interesting point. Of course that was when Senator Obama was in Congress and his view on needing to increase the debt limit is a definite failure of Congressional leadership.

    As you recall, Congress, specifically the House initiates all revenue bills. Their budget is then negotiated with the Senate. That was true then and has been since.

    Congressional leadership has consistently raised the debt limit and failed to pass a balanced budget by not increasing revenue nor decreasing spending. Our grandchildren’s money has gone to wars, unneeded tax cuts, corporate welfare, etc. etc.

    Congress has the responsibility to limit spending and pay for tax cuts. Rather than moving to deficit reduction and budget balancing, they simply spend more, give away more, and ask for more borrowing. Congress has doubled the debt and is continuing to do so. The only deficit being brought to the fore is the “deficit” in Congressional leadership.

    My opinion has always been that the Congress should and can cut spending, revise the tax code to close loopholes and increase revenue, stabilize social security and Medicare to self-sufficiency, and dedicate all revenue gains to deficit reduction.

    The "President's Budget" is a meaningless document. Congress determines the budget and with proper leadership a balanced Congressional budget can developed to override any veto and go into effect.

    Let's see what happens this week when the debt limit needs to go up again. Odds are that Congress will cave again.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Sat, Apr 22, 2017, at 4:22 PM
  • *

    Welcome (Rick Lettau) Commonsensematters, how's things in Marble Hill?

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Sat, Apr 22, 2017, at 4:30 PM
  • "...determined who the President is now."

    My opinion is that President Obama had nothing to do with President Trump's election.

    I believe there were two major factors:

    The first was was Hillary Clinton's absurd decision to utilize her private server. Although it was not criminal, it was a "hammer" used to denigrate her for over 4 years.

    The second was the 16 republican candidates last year. Had there been 3 or 4 candidates Trump would have lost almost all early primaries, and in my opinion quit the race. With 16 entries, his 20% of the vote made him a "winner" with 2 or 3 others, his 20% would have made him a "loser."

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Sat, Apr 22, 2017, at 4:33 PM
  • "...how's things in Marble Hill?"

    Better than ever. No "downward spiral" here, just as there's no "downward spiral" in Cape, nor in Missouri, nor in the nation. The "downward spiral" advocates seem to have vivid imaginations.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Sat, Apr 22, 2017, at 4:38 PM
  • The "downward spiral" advocates seem to have vivid imaginations. -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Sat, Apr 22, 2017, at 4:38 PM

    Which ones? The pink-hatted kitty eared protestors that claim the US is in a downward spiral?

    Or the "Trump reveal his taxes" protestors in DC this past week demanding he release his tax returns and the "downward spiral"?

    Or the protestors today who demand the federal government and Trump do what their liberal scientists demand or we are headed into a downward spiral?

    Who is whining about the doom and gloom? Looks like the "downward spiral" crowd are all democrats to me.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Sat, Apr 22, 2017, at 6:52 PM
  • *

    Posted by Rick Lettau on Sat, Apr 22, 2017, at 4:38 PM

    Common: Due to Pres. Trump actions in not quite 100 days the country is in an upward spiral that will only get better as the days and years go by.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Sat, Apr 22, 2017, at 10:17 PM
  • Rick Lettau

    It is my opinion Barack Obama had a whole lot to do with whoever the President is now , no matter the candidate , Trump just happened to be the person . Under the Obama Administration , the exception became the Rule , the Special Interest ran the Land . After 8 years , the Populist said enough , no more .

    37 out of the 50 States rejected the Obama agenda , it appears as though the mass media were so astonished and shocked , apparently most Obama supporters as well , that it's still being investigated under a microscope to this day . This is what People are refusing to accept , Trump didn't win , the Obama agenda was rejected . It wasn't a "for" Trump , it was "anti" Obama . The Pro-Obama factions stir the pot , create distrust and disharmony as if the out come just can't be real .

    I'm also of the opinion the biggest mistake Clinton made during her campaign was ignoring the Populist culture , Sanders and Trump both used this campaign strategy .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sun, Apr 23, 2017, at 5:49 AM
  • Another example of the Obama effect

    ...............

    North Korea threatens Australia with nuclear strike over sanctions comments

    http://www.mygc.com.au/north-korea-threatens-australia-nuclear-strike-sanctions-...

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sun, Apr 23, 2017, at 5:52 AM
  • Doug Williams

    I support funding for Science over Defense , the USA is currently spending $1.5 billion tax dollars per day on Defense . Why should the American tax payer spend $1.5 billion dollars per day to defend Foreign Nation People before they care for their own ? Who has attacked the USA homelands at the price of $1.5 billion dollars per day , how much of the $1.5 billion dollars per day goes toward caring for the USA Vets ?

    $1.5 billion dollars per day could take care of a whole lot of sick , hungry , and homeless Americans before Peoples of Foreign Nations .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sun, Apr 23, 2017, at 6:53 AM
  • Poll: Trump, Democrats and GOP all unpopular

    "The ABC/Washington Post poll found significant majorities said both the Democratic and Republican parties were "out of touch" with the concerns of most Americans.

    Sixty-seven percent of respondents said the Democratic Party was out of touch, as did 62% for the Republican Party. Less than a third said either party was "in touch."

    Trump faired slightly better than the parties, with 58% saying he was out of touch."

    http://www.cnn.com/2017/04/23/politics/donald-trump-approval-poll/index.html

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sun, Apr 23, 2017, at 5:58 PM
  • *

    Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sun, Apr 23, 2017, at 6:53 AM

    Rick: That money spent deters our enemies by having a strong military and provides good paying jobs in the defense companies. However, we don't need to be paying extra high prices for parts, tools, and supplies. No foreign aid for unfriendly countries.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Sun, Apr 23, 2017, at 7:17 PM
  • Sounds to me like someone still has a man crush on Obama, BTW where is Obama hiding? After a while he surely will fade away but then again he may have to stoop down to joining up with the Clinton and Gore machine to amass enough money to be a player in destroying America with Soros.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Sun, Apr 23, 2017, at 7:31 PM
  • How many tanks does it take to be strong .

    Utah , USA .

    http://www.tacomlcmccommunityreport.com/galleries/Cities/sierraarmydepot.jpg

    ...............

    Technology is making conventional warfare going the wayside , it's throwing good money after bad . All I'm suggesting is take another look , spend some more on computer science and such ...

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sun, Apr 23, 2017, at 8:11 PM
  • *

    Rick You can't stop a missile with a computer.

    I agree that cyber warfare is becoming an issue but when it gets down to it unfortunately you have to have missiles and tanks and bombs and planes to deliver them along with ships.

    That is just how it is. Obama let everything just go to pieces and we are terribly unprepared by way of planes and ships and bombs.

    The only way to get to where we used to be is to replace all that Obama didn't keep up on. We have to.

    We can't retain our standing in the world if we can't back ourselves up.

    -- Posted by Karen Jones on Sun, Apr 23, 2017, at 8:24 PM
  • Karen Jones

    I believe a computer aims and shoots a missile so I believe you can stop a missile with a computer too . Drones are shooting missiles and bombs now instead of planes , these can be hacked too . If I'm not mistaken , China captured a USA drone submarine last year too . Eventually it's going to be all about taking out GPS satellite system and such in the end , in my opinion .

    It's we shouldn't spend money , it's where or how we spend the money . To just spend more and say it's doing something may not be doing anything but spending more money and nothing else .

    Couldn't it be possible to have top line Defense plus have money for the Peoples of America first and foremost at the same time ?

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sun, Apr 23, 2017, at 8:56 PM
  • Hey , all of those parked tanks in Utah , we could use them to build Trump's wall , it's better then letting them sit and rust in the sands outside of Red River , Utah .

    Line them all up in a row , end to end ....

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sun, Apr 23, 2017, at 8:59 PM
  • We can't retain our standing in the world if we can't back ourselves up.

    ...................

    We can't make them see the light but we can make them feel the heat

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sun, Apr 23, 2017, at 9:00 PM
  • Karen Jones

    Some dude sat in a cave in Afghanistan and figured out how to bring the USA to it's knees on Sept.11 , 2001 using $5 dollar box cutters from a hardware store . It's not always about who has the most and the expensive toys .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 9:52 AM
  • "...Trump didn't win , the Obama agenda was rejected."

    I'm sure you're aware that President Obama was not running for a third term.

    Were you to recall that during the campaign, all you heard from Trump was "Lyin' Hillary" or "Crooked Hillary" or "Lock her up."

    Never once did Trump call "what are we rejecting" and have the mob scream in response, "the Obama agenda."

    What's really ironic, is that she is no more nor less crooked than any other politician, and as for lying, Trump would normally tell more lies in one rally rant, than she did in the entire campaign.

    Your obsession with a so-called "Obama agenda" is exactly that, yours. I have never heard anyone else express anything remotely similar, but as always I politely welcome you to your own opinion. Keep in mind the his approval rating is over 60% and still rising.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 10:04 AM
  • *

    Rick,

    It isn't always so simple as you say. As far as computers they can't be totally relied on for defense due to hackers.

    You can't hack a person on a ship or in a plane. There is unfortunately still the need for soldiers.

    While I do not want war I don't want us to be caught with our pants down should it be needed. We are about out of bombs and you know because of Obama we don't have what we need should it come about.

    We have to rebuild the military first which will cost more but once we are up to par again we should be able to maintain it at a lower cost.

    The replacement of things will be the highest cost. We also need to stop paying outrageous prices for hammers, and screwdrivers, and screws for that matter.

    Trump brags about negotiating prices so let's get busy!

    -- Posted by Karen Jones on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 10:09 AM
  • "Due to Pres. Trump actions in not quite 100 days the country is in an upward spiral that will only get better as the days and years go by."

    Actually, he's done precious little in 100 days, particularly in comparison to his grandiose and lofty promises made during the campaign.

    There has been some optimism in the business community, especially when they are promised a 43% cut in corporate taxes, but nothing has even been presented to Congress.

    Even the vaunted "Repeal Obamacare" promise is nowhere to be seen.

    It would appear that any "upward spiral" is based more on campaign rhetoric than on concrete actions.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 10:22 AM
  • Never once did Trump call "what are we rejecting" and have the mob scream in response, "the Obama agenda." -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 10:04 AM

    Straw man. Never once did Obama say "I am the most successful president ever" - therefore he wasn't successful?

    ===

    I'm sure MSNBC didn't report this but let me enlighten you. The Obama agenda and policies were clearly used to defeat democrats in 2016. Trump and Pence both attacked Obama's disastrous policies and actions:

    "It was one of many campaign promises that sounded good at the time: undo eight years’ worth of Obama’s work. Mike Pence told hundreds of cheering supporters in Hampton Roads, Virginia in September that on the very first day of a Donald Trump administration, his running mate was “going to repeal every single Obama executive order, he is going to repeal Obamacare… and on day one, we’re going to end the war on coal once and for all.”

    Days earlier, Trump himself had told supporters in North Carolina that his administration would “eliminate every unconstitutional executive order and restore the rule of law to our land.”

    Then they won. "

    ===

    And lest your short memory has forgotten this 9/17/2016:

    “My name may not be on the ballot, but our progress is on the ballot,” Obama said. “Hope is on the ballot,” he said, laying out the choice.

    And he lost at the ballot hugely. So Barack Obama says you're dead wrong. And Trump/Pence did campaign against your beloved presidents agenda.

    And it was rejected hugely.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 10:26 AM
  • We are hardly “out of bombs.” As you can see from the articles below, the previous administration had been using them to destroy ISIS assets. US companies are happy and completely able to resupply the DOD.

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

    Defense Firms Cash In Amid Soaring Demand for Munitions

    Boeing, Lockheed, BAE ramp up production as surge of airstrikes against Islamic State strains supplies of precise bombs, missiles

    By Paul Sonne Jan. 5, 2017 5:30 a.m. ET

    The makers of precision-guided missiles and bombs are running to keep up with demand as the U.S. military bombards Islamic State from the air.

    Companies such as Boeing Co., Lockheed Martin Corp. and BAE Systems PLC—which make the precision-guidance kits that carry U.S. missiles and bombs to their targets—are benefiting from the U.S. military’s increased reliance on air power in the Middle East.

    https://www.wsj.com/articles/defense-firms-cash-in-amid-soaring-demand-for-munit...

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

    Boeing Ramps Up Bomb Production as Stockpiles Decrease

    POSTED BY: ORIANA PAWLYK MARCH 29, 2017

    “The Navy and Air Force, as well as U.S. allies, have asked Boeing Co. for more bomb kits, including laser-guided, amid declining JDAM stockpiles due to the air war against the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria.

    “We’re ramping significantly across the portfolio, not just with [Joint Direct Attack Munition],” said Cindy Gruensfelder, Boeing’s director of direct attack munitions.

    “But with JDAM, we’re currently on a path by July of this year to ramp to a 150 weapons a day [rate] or over 36,500 [tail kits] per year — that is two full shifts at our facility,” she told reporters during a media briefing Tuesday at Boeing’s facilities near Washington, D.C.

    “Gruensfelder said Boeing is looking to break the 36,000 kit annual production ceiling because of international partner requests.

    “The ramp-up began last July, when an average of 130 tail kits a day were being produced.

    ‘The Air Force — flying more than half the sorties for Operation Inherent Resolve, the name of the operation against ISIS — in December 2015 revealed bomb stockpiles were decreasing in light of the air war, which began in 2014.

    “The stockpiles were strained further when the joint force began sharing weapons with coalition partners engaged against the terrorist group in the Middle East, said then-Lt. Gen. John Raymond, deputy chief of staff for operations at Headquarters Air Force at the time.

    “Chicago-based Boeing recently celebrated its 300,000 JDAM production, Gruensfelder said.

    “To fast forward to the usage rates we’re seeing from some of the warfighters … usage of weapons for JDAM in particular was 80 a day on average,” she said of Boeing’s contribution.

    “Small diameter bomb production will also see an increase. Boeing, which makes the GBU-39 kit, currently produces 1,000 units a year, primarily based on international needs, Gruensfelder said. But the company is in contract negotiations with the Air Force to have 5,000 units a year for the next lot, with the potential of 8,000 the following year.”

    https://www.dodbuzz.com/2017/03/29/boeing-jdam-production-stockpiles/

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 10:37 AM
  • "...Trump didn't win , the Obama agenda was rejected."

    I'm sure you're aware that President Obama was not running for a third term.

    ..........

    I'm sure you understand how agendas work , I believe you're still using one , honestly .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 10:51 AM
  • -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 10:37 AM

    There's great money to be made in death and destruction

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 10:52 AM
  • Here are a few extracts regarding…

    “Trump’s praise for the military comes with a caveat"

    04/14/17 10:32 AM By Steve Benen

    http://www.msnbc.com/rachel-maddow-show/trumps-praise-the-military-comes-caveat

    “TRUMP: It’s so incredible. It’s brilliant. It’s genius. Our technology, our equipment, is better than anybody by a factor of five. I mean look, we have, in terms of technology, nobody can even come close to competing. Now we’re going to start getting it, because, you know, the military has been cut back and depleted so badly by the past administration….

    “You could almost see the president make the realization that the praise for the state of the military might be a political problem, because he’s spent a year and a half telling Americans that Obama left the military in shambles. The rhetoric was a lie, which in turn leaves Trump in a jam: how can he celebrate the might of our military without discrediting his own talking points?

    “The answer, apparently, is to clumsily argue that the military is amazing and it was depleted by that rascally predecessor of his.

    “Trump tried to walk the same line yesterday. Asked yesterday about the use of a MOAB in Afghanistan, the president wouldn’t directly answer questions about whether he authorized the mission or not, but he told reporters:

    “[TRUMP:] Everybody knows exactly what happened. And what I do is I authorize my military. We have the greatest military in the world, and they’ve done their job as usual. So we have given them total authorization, and that’s what they’re doing. And, frankly, that’s why they’ve been so successful lately. If you look at what’s happened over the last eight weeks and compare that really to what’s happened over the last eight years, you’ll see there’s a tremendous difference – tremendous difference.

    “So we have incredible leaders in the military, and we have incredible military. And we are very proud of them. And this was another very, very successful mission.”

    “So the moral of the story is: Trump good, military good, Obama bad. Got it.

    “Franken’s 2003 jab to Wolfowitz resonates for a reason. Trump is obviously the Commander in Chief of the armed forces, but he hasn’t actually done anything in terms of changing the strength or size of the military. This is the fighting force he inherited when he took office nearly three months ago.

    “The more he’s impressed with the military’s potency, the more he concedes the criticisms of Obama don’t make a lot of sense.”

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 11:42 AM
  • “going to repeal every single Obama executive order, he is going to repeal Obamacare… and on day one, we’re going to end the war on coal once and for all.”

    Repealing "executive orders" is all talk.

    Repeal "Obamacare" nothing done, and now more Americans are for it than against it.

    In fact there is no war on coal. How many mines did his "executive order" open?

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 11:47 AM
  • A lot of times it is a question of opinion , the difference between a vivid imagination and thinking outside of the box , Sean Hannity or Rachel Maddow , FOX or MSNBC .

    The Obama agenda continues , the denial of reality remains strong .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 1:57 PM
  • -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 11:42 AM

    Imagine that! Rachel (alt-left) Maddow criticizing Trump. Now there's some real journalism you can sink your gums into.

    LOL!

    I quoted Obama saying his legacy was on the ballot. Straight out of the little man's mouth. And it contradicted you 100%.

    Ouch.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 2:17 PM
  • *

    - Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 10:22 AM

    Common: You have your opinions and I have mine....sorry that 90% of yours are wrong.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 2:40 PM
  • What's Maddow have to do with anything? The article was written by a Steve Benen.

    If you believe that President Obama's so-called "agenda" was on the ballot, then you'll agree that about 10 million more American voted for it, than voted against it.

    Just more accurate news!

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 2:43 PM
  • What's Maddow have to do with anything? The article was written by a Steve Benen. http://www.msnbc.com/rachel-maddow-show/... -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 2:43 PM

    Hmmm.... what does "Rachel Maddow" have to do with the "Rachel Maddow" show? More evidence of being obtuse?

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 2:59 PM
  • So as you seem not to want to recognize authorship, perhaps you can de-conflict these two statements by President Trump:

    "We have the greatest military in the world, and they’ve done their job as usual."

    "So we have incredible leaders in the military, and we have incredible military. And we are very proud of them. And this was another very, very successful mission.”

    and this statement by President Trump:

    "...because, you know, the military has been cut back and depleted so badly by the past administration…."

    Maybe you can help him reconcile differences between his praise for his military, and his vilification of the President Obama's military.

    Guess what? They are the same.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 4:01 PM
  • "...sorry that 90% of yours are wrong."

    I'm sure that you really meant to add was "and here are the ones I disagree with."

    Perhaps you could be more specific and tell which of my opinions are wrong in your opinion.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 4:08 PM
  • Obama's actions affect and determine who the President is now . For example , during the 8 years of the Obama Administration the exception was the Rule , the minority of issues or People ran the Lands .

    When the great election of 2016 happened , the exception to the Rule won , the minority of the vote was elected as 45th President , Obama's actions determined who is the President now , it doesn't matter the person .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 4:08 PM
  • *

    Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 4:01 PM

    Common what I referred to as far as us running out of bombs was reported DURING the Obama watch! It was reported on more than once and you confirmed it with your post. It is funny that they are just now increasing production this year when the issue was brought up a year or so ago.

    Maybe you were busy watching Obama play golf and missed it but it didn't just happen on Trump's watch.

    -- Posted by Karen Jones on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 4:15 PM
  • "...it doesn't matter the person."

    Of course it matters. If a vote for Trump was a vote against "Obama's actions" then there were 63.0 million votes against Obama, and 73.7 million votes not against Obama.

    On top of those 10.7 million votes, there were about 2.5 million votes that were cast that had no choice for president marked. It is clearly impossible to tell how they would have gone, but they represent 10 times the number needed to have swung the electoral college vote.

    Hillary lost the race by herself.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 4:20 PM
  • Drive all through the streets and roads of the Great Lands of the USA and it's Flag hangs from houses , business , and buildings . The Star Spangled Banner , the Red , White , and Blue , Old Glory , hanging as it has since the beginning of the USA .

    But , a great fundamental change to America was made in 2008 , from then on it would be just the Red or Blue States , FOX or MSNBC , Hannity or Maddow , for or against , it's up for grabs , take your pick . No other choices , no other options . Even a personal choice that meant nothing , a Confederate Flag was forced down , it couldn't be so !!

    So during the election of 2016 the mass media had the Great Lands of the USA broke down into States of Red or Blue , everyone watching in fascination and anticipation of which State would be Red and which State would be Blue .

    The fundamental change has happened , no more Red , White , and Blue , just Red or Blue , the great divide has been made , it will take years to get out of the spiral . But then , a lot of times it comes down to a matter of opinion , the difference between a vivid imagination and looking outside of the box .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 4:24 PM
  • Hillary lost the race by herself.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 4:20 PM

    Obama lost his agenda .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 4:25 PM
  • Always look upstream before taking a drink down stream .

    ~~ Elders

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 4:40 PM
  • This is an unclassified Strike Release Report from JTF Operation Inherent Resolve for November 30, 2016.

    There are similar reports for every day in October, November and December of 2016. Some in December are not public yet. Missions were flown all year long. I did not pull up reports for months prior to October, but you’re welcome to see for yourself at: http://www.inherentresolve.mil/News/Strike-Releases/

    There may have been temporary shortages of certain types of bombs, but we did not run out.

    November 30, 2016

    Syria •

    Near Abu Kamal, two strikes destroyed two oil well heads and two oil pump jacks. •

    Near Al Shaddadi, two strikes engaged two ISIL tactical units and destroyed two fighting positions and a vehicle. •

    Near Ar Raqqah, one strike engaged an ISIL chemical weapons storage facility.

    Iraq •

    Near Al Qaim, one strike engaged ISIL military equipment and a defensive position. •

    Near Bayji, one strike engaged an ISIL tactical unit and destroyed a tunnel. •

    Near Mosul, four strikes engaged three ISIL tactical units; destroyed four VBIEDs, four mortar systems, three ISIL-held buildings, two vehicles, two weapon caches, and an ISIL compound; suppressed a mortar system; and damaged 22 supply routes and a tank. •

    Near Qayayyarah, one strike engaged an ISIL tactical unit; destroyed two vehicles, two ISIL-held buildings, a weapons cache, and a VBIED; and suppressed a heavy machine gun. •

    Near Sinjar, one strike engaged an ISIL tactical unit and destroyed two vehicles.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 4:43 PM
  • "Obama lost his agenda."

    Purely your opinion, but still has nothing to do with the last election.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 5:03 PM
  • *

    Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 4:43 PM

    Never said we ran out. I said we were running out and there were concerns about running out. Had we been engaged we would have been caught seriously short handed. This is the situation that Obama had us in. You can't wait until a war starts to increase production of munitions.

    If you want to be technical we are still "at war" in Korea as there is only a cease fire. No Armistice was ever signed.

    You have a total psycho in charge of the North and while he does blow a lot of hot air you can't be sure he won't do anything BC he is very unstable.

    Think on that!

    -- Posted by Karen Jones on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 5:25 PM
  • Purely your opinion, but still has nothing to do with the last election. -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 5:03 PM

    And you would know because??? How do you know how everyone voted? Did Rachel's web site and blog tell you?

    Nearly everyone I know that voted for Trump couldn't stand Obama's failures, debt doubling, etc. and wanted him and his legacy out. Trump ran against Obama's policies and promised to repeal and remove much of it.

    Now why did you vote for Hillary? I can't imagine an answer to that.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 6:13 PM
  • Purely your opinion, but still has nothing to do with the last election.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 5:03 PM

    Purely your opinion, but it is the last election.

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 6:57 PM
  • The Obama agenda struggles to continue , the denial of reality remains strong .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 6:59 PM
  • *

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 4:43 PM

    Common: You can use the largest amount of words that I have ever seen and say the least with those words.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 7:16 PM
  • That's for the benefit of those accepting of reality, and who prefer to avoid the conservative dream world.

    (That should be short and simple enough to match anyone's attention span.)

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 8:48 PM
  • I think the phrase "Your name is Mud" will some day be replaced by "Your name is Obama" and Mr Arnold's name will be an obscure bit of history known only for Mr. Obama surpassing him for the twisted purpose of legacy he thought more desirable.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 9:09 PM
  • *

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 8:48 PM

    Rick: Now that's how you should comment....funny long or short your comments still don't hold water. Guess the Conservative dream world was good enough to elect Trump President. Have a great night and try to put America First tomorrow and not second place like Obama did.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 9:10 PM
  • "No armistice was ever signed."

    Actualy there was...

    "The fighting ended on 27 July 1953, when an armistice was signed. The agreement created the Korean Demilitarized Zone to separate North and South Korea, and allowed the return of prisoners. However, no peace treaty has been signed, and the two Koreas are technically still at war."

    "Think on that!"

    That would be fairly easy. Having been deployed to Suwon AB after the Pueblo Incident, I’ve kept very abreast of events in Korea for many years.

    The US has little to fear from a North Korean attack. Those in most jeopardy are Korean civilians and US military in and around Seoul. They are facing tens of thousands of long range artillery pieces and tube rockets, which would comprise the first response after any ill advised, preemptive US strike.

    What will most likely occur is that President Trump will continue strategic patience, and the Chinese will continue to hold their client state in check, as they did with Kim Jong-il from 1994 to 2011 and with Kim Jong-un from 2011 to now.

    The Chinese have zero desire for US retaliatory nuclear weapons to light up, radiate and obliterate North Korea and the adjacent Chinese provinces of Liaoning and Jilin, and the sliver of Russia that touches North Korea. For this reason alone, they will control Un in spite of what they told President Trump.

    Think about that.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 9:36 PM
  • "Have a great night and try to put America First tomorrow..."

    Clearly, I have no idea how you think, but I've been putting America first for about 70 years.

    (Short enough?)

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 9:38 PM
  • "Your name is Obama" and Mr Arnold's name..."

    I have no idea what Mr. Arnold you're referring to, but President Obama will always be well respected and remembered as the first African-American President.

    What's even funnier is that this will be true long after you and I, and the other Rick and Doug are long dead and buried and forgotten.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 9:44 PM
  • "I can't imagine an answer to that."

    That should not surprise anyone. Lack of imagination is right up there with lack of common sense, lack of logic, and avoidance of reality.

    And that's politely said with all due respect and humility.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 10:09 PM
  • I think a time will come when being the first African-American will no longer be a distinction or reason to be remembered.

    Sometimes when people of prejudice find a person that they can praise as the kind of person that conforms to their own standards, they go all out to say look at me, I'm not a racist. Remember Joe Biden's proclamation of Obama and why he would support him? All opposite to Joe's generalities about all people claiming the title of nonwhite Hyphenated Americans.

    Some people get so caught up in that warped thinking that they can't see when America is being put second.

    I think we are close to seeing the real Obama.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 10:23 PM
  • People in America are now stuck with the inept and unqualified Trump thanks in majority to the Obama People of 8 years . Now they point at the Moon , Sun , and Stars as excuses to why everyone are stuck with Trump when they are the ones who are to blame .

    "You own it!!" , they squeal , "Look what you did !!"

    Stomping their feet , pointing , accusing , blaming , refusing to accept what the have done .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 10:25 PM
  • The Obama People insisted the exception to the Rule was mandatory , everyone in the Great Lands would live by the minority Rules . After the Election when the minority count Rules , the Obama People pitch a fit , it's everyone else fault -- look what you did , they yell !!

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 10:31 PM
  • Be careful what you wish for , you just might get it...

    Thnx a lot for sticking us with Trump .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 10:32 PM
  • R. W. Bess

    Barack Obama is Irish .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 10:34 PM
  • *

    "first African-American President"

    I have told Common at least a half a dozen times..... Barack Hussein Obama is the first half black President.

    Why Common insists upon lying about that instead of owning up to his white side I will never understand. No matter how much Obama despises his white ancestors they will always be there. There have been no 100% black presidents, and after Obama's 8 years it is not likely there will be in most of our lifetimes.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 10:53 PM
  • Rick Lettau's comments can be quickly summarized as:

    1) Obama's legacy is all about his race

    2) He knows a lot about the Korean situation TODAY because he was in Korea 50 years ago

    3) The Liberal "dream world" is doubling the debt, weakening the country, starting race wars and denigrating police. We saw that for 8 years under Obama. And now we see it today with his friends who protest with kitty-hats in DC and wear their female genitalia as costumes. Pretty "main stream" bunch you associate with.

    Keep it up Commie. Could it even be remotely possible that you could lose more seats in state and federal government?

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Tue, Apr 25, 2017, at 7:22 AM
  • "...how much Obama despises his white ancestors..."

    I'd welcome you posting proof of that.

    '...there will be in most of our lifetimes."

    Apparently you're referring to a future second Black-American President, but as I said after we're gone your grandchildren and mine, will be learning about the first African-American, (or Black American, if you prefer).

    Evidently, you fail to see the humor and candor it that, but it's true nevertheless.

    You may have forgotten that the "one-drop rule is [or has long been] a social and legal principle of racial classification that was historically prominent in the United States."

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Tue, Apr 25, 2017, at 7:50 AM
  • Mr. Williams,

    Respectfully, it is not unexpected that you can so easily misconstrue so much, in so little time.

    For example, how can President Obama have "...weaken[ed] the country..." at the same that President Trump can rightfully brag that, "We have the greatest military in the world, and they’ve done their job as usual."

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Tue, Apr 25, 2017, at 7:58 AM
  • *

    Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 9:38 PM

    Common: You can't be America First when you and other Democrats protest Everything President Trump does or says.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Tue, Apr 25, 2017, at 9:16 AM
  • how can President Obama have "...weaken[ed] the country..." at the same that President Trump can rightfully brag that, "We have the greatest military in the world, and they’ve done their job as usual." -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Tue, Apr 25, 2017, at 7:58 AM

    Mr. Lettau,

    Respectfully, I'm always glad to help explain simple concepts that others cannot perceive.

    If I have two glasses of water - one is full, the other is only 1/4 full. If I drink 1/2 the water out of the full one, guess what?

    The full glass has been reduced to 50% - 1/2 - of what it was. Yet it is still much fuller - greater - than the glass that was only 1/4 full to begin with.

    Sincerely - does that help you understand? And, of course, none of the discussions delve into the much more complex notion that while we have the "greatest military in the world" the actions of Obama have weakened our position severely and increased the likelihood of confrontation. At least that is what former Obama administration officials are now admitting.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Tue, Apr 25, 2017, at 9:18 AM
  • What is the need for a label such as "African/American" . If such a label is needed on anyone born in the Nation of America , why wouldn't such a label be America first like "American/African" ? I think a person would be proud to be an American and insist on no label at all , they would be an American or People only , but that's just me .

    There is no such thing as "Native/American" , those who insist , or try to make labels mandatory , created the label . We who are born in the Sioux Nation are the People and proud to be People too , this is the label if any labels have to be used . Maybe some day People will be President , no ?

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Tue, Apr 25, 2017, at 1:19 PM
  • Shouldn't the NAACP be changed to the NAAAA ?

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Tue, Apr 25, 2017, at 1:23 PM
  • 2008 , the fundamental change occurs....

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Tue, Apr 25, 2017, at 1:29 PM
  • I have no idea what Mr. Arnold you're referring to

    Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, Apr 24, 2017, at 9:44 PM

    I learned this back in 4th grade, I believe. If you did not, you can probably Google traitor with last name Arnold, which is the person I believe was referenced.

    -- Posted by Donna Runnels on Tue, Apr 25, 2017, at 2:29 PM
  • So I see, the President Obama glass of miltary capability was full, and he used half of it destroying ISIS, while at the same time replenishing stocks of munitions.

    And so along comes President Trump and knowing little about the DOD, convinces himself that the military capability glass is only 1/4 full, while in fact it never went below half and was being continuously refilled.

    Good analogy.

    Now while I have your attention, explain exactly what capabilities have been "severely weakened? "

    Did we lose an aircraft carrier? Did a nuclear sub dissappear? Was a wing of B-2's grounded? Did the US Army misplace a division?

    What's been weakened?

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Tue, Apr 25, 2017, at 2:36 PM
  • A Nation's strength and might can be weakened as easily mentally as it can be physically . The entire World can look down on any Nation the same as it can look up to any Nation .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Tue, Apr 25, 2017, at 3:20 PM
  • Isn't this the anti-Trump with the Russian hacking attempt the same thing , an attempt for Americans and the entire World to look down at Trump ?

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Tue, Apr 25, 2017, at 3:23 PM
  • -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Tue, Apr 25, 2017, at 2:36 PM

    How could Obama use 1/2 the military? Doesn't sound like you have very good knowledge, judgment, or experience on this topic.

    He cut it. Big. I hate to see people like yourself so uninformed. It's scary...

    In 2010, Obama cut $487 billion from the defense budget.

    In 2011, Obama signed into law a budget process intended to cut an additional $492 billion over 10 years.

    Sorry it's your guy and you haven't a clue what he has done. He cut it bad and now it's weaker. Airplanes aren't flying due to part shortages, etc. It's still the most powerful military in the world despite being weakened by an Acorn community organizer.

    Do you feel bad now about your votes for him since you now know - apparently for the first time - that Obama weakened the US military so bad? Or does that make you feel proud?

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Tue, Apr 25, 2017, at 5:40 PM
  • *

    What's been weakened?

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Tue, Apr 25, 2017, at 2:36 PM

    Common: Since the Crawdad-In-Chief Obama backed down from his Red Line, the USA has been weakened in the eyes of the world community as a Paper Tiger. It took Trump less than 100 days to change the USA from a Paper Tiger to a Fierce Tiger.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Tue, Apr 25, 2017, at 6:15 PM
  • The way to weaken a Nation is crack it's Foundation , this can be done by fracturing it's Society . Separate the Peoples into Labels then give each Label their own things . The Foundation cracks like a spider web or windshield hit with a bat , it takes years to repair or fix it .

    When anything is tried to be taken away from any Label for the good of the Society , that Label will yell , "Hey , where's my stuff , why are you taking it from me , you are picking on me !" . The protests , riots , Court Cases , and such begin .

    It takes years and years and years to fix the Nation's Foundation and make it strong again for the good of all Society . It was fractured with a fundamental change beginning 2008 , Labels with things were assigned and handed out, those with the bats are still swing them too .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Tue, Apr 25, 2017, at 7:07 PM
  • Perhaps you could consider facts rather that name-calling.

    In 2013, in order to preclude any eventual US attack on Syria, the Russians took 1300 tons of chemical weapons out of Syrian hands. (Short enough for you?)

    For others, that may want to really understand what happened, here are some more details.

    What happened to Russia's agreement to eradicate Syria’s chemical weapons?

    "Syria identified and declared 1,300 tons of chemical weapons. Then, the Netherlands-based Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) and the U.N. oversaw the removal of those weapons, mostly sarin and mustard gas, placing tags and seals on them. Those chemicals were eventually loaded onto U.S. Naval ships, where a complex destruction process began."

    http://www.cbsnews.com/news/what-happened-to-russias-agreement-to-eliminate-syri...

    So basically, after President Obama deferred from a "red line" response, the Russians stripped all weapons from their ally (theoretically.)

    What happened this year (in sequence)...

    First, the Trump administration stated that removal of Assad was no longer a primary objective.

    It's obvious that next, the Syrian secretly restored some chemical weapons capability, either with or without the Russian's knowledge.

    They stored the weapons on the same base with Russians, and on about the 4th of April decided to use sarin gas, and subsequently killed over 70 men, women and children.

    Reaction was immediate worldwide condemnation against Syria and Russia.

    President Trump decided at the recommendation of DOD and other advisers, to launch cruise missiles against the base where the attack originated.

    Prior to launching the attack, President Trump warned the Russians that the attack was on it's way. It is likely that the Russians warned the Syrian military.

    The Tomahawk missile attack destroyed several aircraft in their shelters, destroyed some fuel, rearranged some dirt. It did not damage the runways, hit the chemical stores, or any Russian personnel or equipment.

    After the attack, the Russians decided to deploy more air defense assets and intermingle their aircraft with Syrians.

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

    So the 2013 action resulted in Russian stripping chemical weapons from Syria.

    The 2017 action resulted in the Russians now protecting Syrian chemical weapons.

    Pretty simple to tell which response was more effective.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Tue, Apr 25, 2017, at 7:40 PM
  • -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Tue, Apr 25, 2017, at 7:40 PM

    Why would I believe you? You were absolutely clueless about Obama's major cuts to defense. And proudly claimed how great Obama was to the military.

    So you post another long diatribe about Obama again. Who would ever believe it? It's apparent you don't know much about the military, the budget or what Obama has actually done.

    Sincerely and respectfully.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Tue, Apr 25, 2017, at 7:49 PM
  • "I hate to see people like yourself so uninformed. It's scary..."

    Are you really not aware that it is Congress that determines the federal government expenditures?

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

    "...signed into law a budget process..."

    Are you really not aware that Congress writes these laws.

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

    "In 2010, Obama cut $487 billion from the defense budget."

    DOD Budget (billion dollars)

    2008 --- 696

    2009 --- 698

    2010 --- 710

    2011 --- 717

    2012 --- 681

    2013 --- 610

    2014 --- 614

    2015 --- 637

    Looks like from 2009 to 2010 the DOD budget increased by 12 billion dollars, by Congress.

    Who's "scary?"

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Tue, Apr 25, 2017, at 7:56 PM
  • Guess it's tough when facts blow up your preconceived notions and fabrications.

    And I have no expectation of understanding, but thanks for listening or reading actual realities.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Tue, Apr 25, 2017, at 8:03 PM
  • To wrap up, here's some "tweet" words from President (now) Trump...

    "President Obama, do not attack Syria. There is no upside and tremendous downside. Save your "powder" for another (and more important) day!

    8:21 AM - 7 Sep 2013"

    Funny, that's just what President Obama did.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Tue, Apr 25, 2017, at 8:07 PM
  • From politifact:

    "Overall spending on national security includes the Pentagon budget as well as spending by other agencies, such as the Energy Department’s work on nuclear weapons. Spending increased in 2010 and 2011, but it has fallen every year for four years since then by a cumulative 15 percent."

    ===

    From politifact:

    "As of Dec. 9, 2015, the number of active ships stood at 272, which is the lowest since 1916."

    ===

    From USA Today:

    "President Obama announced a new military strategy on Thursday that will cut the Pentagon budget by hundreds of billions of dollars over the next decade. The new military strategy includes $487 billion in cuts over the next decade."

    ===

    And using your questionable numbers, Obama cut the military $100 BILLION in just 4 years from 2010 to 2013. Some of those cuts were restored (slightly). Oh by the way, you've once again failed to accurately portray numbers. I hope this is not intentional?

    $696 BILLION in 2009 dollars is inflation adjusted to $770 BILLION in 2015. So in "real" dollars he cut the US defense over $130 billion from what he started with ($770 in 2009 in 2015 dollars vs. $639 in the same year).

    Big cuts.

    Funny. That's just what Obama did.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Tue, Apr 25, 2017, at 8:25 PM
  • Just one simple question, which branch of government prepares and finalizes the federal budget?

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Tue, Apr 25, 2017, at 8:37 PM
  • To start with: Andy Weber, former Assistant Secretary of Defense for Nuclear, Chemical and Biological Defense Programs and a senior fellow at Harvard Kennedy School’s Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs, told CBS News.

    Rick L. Sometimes your constant bantering against what is good for America reminds me of this:

    When a doctor doctors another doctor, does the doctor doing the doctoring doctor the doctor getting doctored the way the doctor doing the doctor doctors or does the doctor doing the doctoring doctor the way the doctor getting doctored doctors? I'm sure your last name ain't Hagan or you would make more sense.

    Now come back and do your best to call me stupid in an ever polite way. :)

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Tue, Apr 25, 2017, at 8:44 PM
  • Just don't forget who invented the Tomahawk when it comes to name calling .

    I could have swore the USA had a three leg branch Government so no single branch would have all of the power , has this changed ? Is there a single branch that prepares and finalizes the federal budget . Has a single branch took power , if so , which one . Was this included in the fundamental change as well ?

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Tue, Apr 25, 2017, at 8:45 PM
  • *

    It's obvious that next, the Syrian secretly restored some chemical weapons capability, either with or without the Russian's knowledge.-- Posted by Rick Lettau on Tue, Apr 25, 2017, at 7:40 PM

    Common: Blink Blink....the Russians and Syrians apparently gave over some of the chemical weapons and kept enough to suit their purpose - only the naïve believe that Obama had his foot on the Russian/Syrian throats.

    -- Posted by Dennis Smith on Tue, Apr 25, 2017, at 8:49 PM
  • R. W. Bess

    What is best for the whole of the American Society will take years , the Labels of Society tried to vote as so .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Tue, Apr 25, 2017, at 8:55 PM
  • Russia knew chemicals were at those bases , the USA knew those chemicals were at those bases -- the USA gave Russia a heads up to move before the missile strike . ISIS use chemicals , the rebels use chemicals , it's a fools game .

    Obama Administration knew chemicals were there when Russia promised to take them away and didn't , it was kick the can down the road .

    The best answer was just to let Kobe Bryant kick ISIL's *** and be done with it from the get go , isn't that right ?

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Tue, Apr 25, 2017, at 9:00 PM
  • I not going to look it up and quote but I have heard several news reports claim Trump sent or did not sent legislation or a bill to congress. Then I listen to Turbine Durbin today ranting on and on about Trump and Russia stealing the election from Hillary and how the Republicans are covering it up. This is the mentality of liberals in the swamp and so many voters that are so gullible to believe this ignorance to the point they think they have been on the side of making America great since the Korean Conflict began.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Tue, Apr 25, 2017, at 9:38 PM
  • It's good to be Independent .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Tue, Apr 25, 2017, at 9:47 PM
  • We come into this World kicking and screaming covered in someone else Blood and have no problem with go out the same way .

    ~~ Elders

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Tue, Apr 25, 2017, at 9:50 PM
  • Just one simple question, which branch of government prepares and finalizes the federal budget? -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Tue, Apr 25, 2017, at 8:37 PM

    The president of the US must submit a budget by law. Is this what you are talking about? Or the fact the democrats actually held the house and senate when Obama was elected and for a number of years after that. Do you mean what the democrats have done? You know, before they lost a record number of seats in the US House and Senate?

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Tue, Apr 25, 2017, at 9:58 PM
  • Doug, I wasn't aware congress made it law that the president was required to submit a budget. What I was referring to was the media has claimed Trump at fault for not sending a bill to congress for what he claimed to accomplish early on.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Tue, Apr 25, 2017, at 10:08 PM
  • R.W. -

    "The Budget and Accounting Act of 1921 requires the President to submit the budget to Congress for each fiscal year, which is the 12-month period beginning on October 1 and ending on September 30 of the next calendar year. The current federal budget law (31 U.S.C. § 1105(a)) requires that the President submit the budget between the first Monday in January and the first Monday in February."

    So I guess Common was talking about Obama when he mentioned budgets and who is responsible?

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Tue, Apr 25, 2017, at 10:38 PM
  • Thanks Doug, I knew presidents have always offered a budget but didn't know it was law.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Tue, Apr 25, 2017, at 11:08 PM
  • "The Budget and Accounting Act of 1921 requires the President to submit the budget to Congress for each fiscal year"

    Right as far as you've went.

    Also, the Santa Claus Act of the 4th Century requires kids to submit Christmas lists each year.

    Both the budget and the list have about equal chances of being fulfilled exactly as submitted.

    In fact the Congress has a detailed Appropriation and Authorization process that takes the President's budgetary "wish list" and converts it into a final budget (or continuing resolution.)

    In any case, any semblance between what goes to Congress from the President and what comes back as the law is normally highly coincidental.

    Take for example President Trump's "budget" which contained about $12 billion for the wall. It's already been zeroed out and the President caved. That's what happens often when kids get carried away with "wish lists."

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 7:49 AM
  • *

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 7:49 AM

    Common: The Wall will be built one way or the other. IMO, extra taxes on imported Mexican products. If that causes price increases then you can buy or not buy that product. Maybe that wayward company just might come back to the USA. In the end the Wall will be built.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 8:01 AM
  • More Government control with higher taxes are the answer , works every time , isn't that Rick Lettau . Socialism has kept the citizens equally poor since 1917 , there's no sense in changing it now .

    When Government fails , use more Government , no reason to stop now .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 9:00 AM
  • *

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 9:00 AM

    Rick: Agree

    *******

    Rick Lettau (Common): Socialism - answer to the Liberals. Everyone equal no incentives to improve oneself....sit on the couch and eat chips, talk on the free Obama cell phone, order your next supply of drugs, watch Oprah on new flat screen TV....only exercise is to go to the bank and cash welfare/unemployment checks unless you have direct deposit. Don't forget to vote Democratic at every election so as to keep the free stuff coming for the Blood Sucking Freeloaders.

    *********

    And that's the way it should be....Wednesday April 26, 2017.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 9:30 AM
  • "...the wall will be built."

    A couple of easy questions. ..

    Why don't any of the border states want it?

    What side of the Rio Grande will it be built on?

    Why should Americans pay for it with higher prices or taxes?

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 10:08 AM
  • Right as far as you've went. -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 7:49 AM

    You could have stopped there and avoided the huge spin and "Santa Claus" cutie stuff. I know when you're wrong you have to deflect. You were proven wrong on this statement when you tried to flip-flop again and blame Congress this week (and next week it will be Trump - whatever suits your point-of-the-moment).

    Are you really not aware that it is Congress that determines the federal government expenditures? -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Tue, Apr 25, 2017, at 7:56 PM

    As I proved and you've agreed to above the president also is involved in budgeting and expenditures. Nice try to cover for your man Obama but you've failed.

    ===

    I also proved the simple concept of how something can be weakened severely and yet still be stronger than something else. I'm sure that keeps you awake at night. I also proved the massive cuts to defense Obama made and pushed. I can give you numerous Obama admin people - his own - who now are deriding what he did to the military and the US standing. Don't go there.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 10:25 AM
  • *

    A couple of easy questions. ..

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 10:08 AM

    A couple of easy questions. ..

    Why don't any of the border states want it?

    Have you poled the citizens of the border states or are you using the failed polling companies that said Hillary would win?

    What side of the Rio Grande will it be built on?

    Don't you think it would have to be on American land - good grief.

    Why should Americans pay for it with higher prices or taxes?

    To keep majority of the illegal drugs that are destroying our youth and citizens lives from entering the USA....don't you think a life is worth it or you one of those baby killers? Also, to keep the illegals from entering the country which is against the law....don't you agree to support America's laws?

    Common: America First!

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 10:32 AM
  • One problem with the Wall , it takes American Land away from American Land owners and they aren't happy about it either . If the Wall keeps going it will cut some towns in pieces , this has been on the down low so far but the mass media is gaining word about it now .

    https://www.bing.com/images/search?view=detailV2&ccid=Gp%2fOHMDU&id=E25D72CFC3A4...

    .............

    .............

    Air Force Launches Unarmed Missile for Test in California

    VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. — An unarmed Minuteman 3 intercontinental ballistic missile has been launched from a U.S. Air Force Base in California on a flight to a target in the Pacific Ocean.

    http://www.military.com/daily-news/2017/04/26/air-force-launches-unarmed-missile...

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 10:35 AM
  • Mr. Schaefer,

    Seriously, do you really believe that huge quantity of drugs that Americans use are hand-carried and "smuggled" across the border?

    The drugs come in legal containers, in vehicles, by ship, or by air. The wall is 100% porous to those means.

    The wall money would be much better spent getting Americans off drugs.

    That would put Americans first.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 11:19 AM
  • There are 100 Pyramids in Egypt , they have enough stones to build a wall 10' high and 5' wide from New York to Los Angles . The Egyptian Empire has fell but the stones remain , walls really don't work .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 11:24 AM
  • America's main drug problem today are opioids , these are made from the Poppy plant which is grown in Central and Southeast Asia . Most of it comes from Afghanistan and Pakistan , it's Afghanistan's main crop just like wheat and corn are America's main crops . The USA Military and Government helps Afghanistan guards and grow these crops for it's economy .

    We get heroin , morphine , pain pills , and all kinds of good stuff from Afghanistan .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 11:30 AM
  • One thing about the Santa Clause comparison, if he forwarded his gifts through D.C. the kids would get more empty boxes than toys. I'm surprised Mr. Lettau didn't scold Santa for not paying his fair share of taxes.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 11:47 AM
  • *

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 11:19 AM

    Common: Let's see, how many years or decades has there been a war on drugs. like I said would not one or more American lives saved be worth the money spent on the Wall or are you one of those baby killers.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 1:12 PM
  • I'm surprised Mr. Lettau didn't scold Santa for not paying his fair share of taxes. -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 11:47 AM

    Believe me, if liberal democrats like Rick Lettau could tax Santa they would.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 1:24 PM
  • '...or are you one of those baby killers."

    Why would you suggest that? What I said was simply that if your objective is to reduce drug use and dependency, "wall money" would be better spent on prevention and education.

    Or as you said, "...would not one or more American lives saved be worth the money..."

    Here are a couple of more applicable points...

    The DEA says that 80% of drugs entering the US come by sea.

    It is also understood that Mexican cartels, in addition to tunnels, are trying catapults, cannons (like T-shirt tossers), ultra-light aircraft and drones.

    My point was that in light of all this, the "Trump wall" would make a miniscule dent in drug traffic.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 3:32 PM
  • *

    My point was that in light of all this, the "Trump wall" would make a miniscule dent in drug traffic.-- Posted by Rick Lettau on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 3:32 PM

    Common: Believe you answered your question by repeating what I had earlier said - Or as you said, "...would not one or more American lives saved be worth the money..."

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 3:53 PM
  • And were the same money dedicated to prevention, education and drug interdiction (along the actual transport routes) would not saving hundreds to thousands of American lives, be more valuable than saving one or more American lives.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 4:09 PM
  • And were the same money dedicated to prevention, education and drug interdiction -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 4:09 PM

    Then we'd be back to Obama's "open border" policy. Gee, imagine millions of more democrat party voters. Talk about a liberal dream... there it is.

    You just hate legal immigration and laws/efforts to enforce that.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 4:13 PM
  • Space may be the Final Frontier but it's made for full vaults in the DC basements .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 4:15 PM
  • *

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 4:09 PM

    Common: The war on drugs has been going on for years and years with more drugs available now then ever....apparently education and the prevention practices haven't work. Why not put the Wall up as another tool unless like Doug said you want open borders to get more Democratic voters....vote Democratic and get all the free stuff that you want - no wonder we are 20 trillion dollars in debt.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 4:20 PM
  • It's hilarious to hear democrat Chuck Schumer complain about tax breaks because of the debt - which he has sat, watched and contributed greatly to over the past 8 years.

    People see through his BS just like they did Hillary's, Harry's and Nancy's. They think empty talking points work.

    The final judge of their failure and inability to grasp American's values and ideals is in the election results. Absolute biggest losses of a party in history.

    I hope they don't change a thing!

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 4:38 PM
  • "Democrats" have had historical loses in the elections over the past 8 years yet the debt has risen historically over the past 8 years ?..hmmm

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 4:50 PM
  • The only difference between a Democrat and a Republican is the spelling .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 5:03 PM
  • "...unless like Doug said you want open borders to get more..."

    Where does this "open borders" fantasy come from? I can attest that I have never made any justification for "open borders" and don't know anyone who has. The borders aren't open now and they haven't been.

    It is however, one of those goofy and well loved conservative talking points. No different than "get all that free stuff." With all due respect, those style of claims and insinuations are totally absurd.

    Just like this...

    "...sit on the couch and eat chips, talk on the free Obama cell phone, order your next supply of drugs, watch Oprah on new flat screen TV....only exercise is to go to the bank and cash welfare/unemployment checks unless you have direct deposit."

    I'm not sure of exactly where you live, Mr. Schaefer, and it's none of my business nor concern, but how many people do you actually know that fit your description. I certainly don't know any.

    As for your question, "Why not put up the wall as another tool..."

    1. The border state Congressmen don't want it.

    2. Congress won't pay for it.

    3. There's not good place to put it without depriving private citizens of their property rights.

    4. It won't work to stop drug smuggling.

    5. Mexico refuses to pay for it anyway in spite of President Trump's claims.

    6. Thirty foot walls are easily defeated by forty foot ladders.

    7. Drones fly higher than thirty feet.

    8. The road system needed to construct the wall will have the unintended consequence of giving smugglers full access to the base of the wall to toss a rope over and haul up drugs.

    Other than that, it's a great idea, if Mexico pays. It really seems that the only person that really wants it is president Trump.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 5:06 PM
  • *

    Posted by Rick Lettau on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 5:06 PM

    Not sure why you don't know this but I have watched several documentary's on the issue of illegal immigration and each time it included interviews with quite a few of the property owners who are begging for the U.S. to put up something to help secure their property. They are tired of finding not only friends and neighbors dead but also illegal immigrants.

    The Congressmen don't have to work in those areas so it isn't like they give a crap.

    -- Posted by Karen Jones on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 5:17 PM
  • *

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 5:06 PM

    Common: You need to leave Marble Hill every once in awhile and see the real world with all the free hand outs - yes free to all who only have to vote Democratic....good grief man turn off MSNBC and get real. The answer to your 8 points is: how do you know these won't change with a Wall - all you have to go on is the DNC talking points. And with that I say good night, have more important things to do.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 5:18 PM
  • “One thing about the Santa Clause comparison, if he forwarded his gifts through D.C. the kids would get more empty boxes than toys. I'm surprised Mr. Lettau didn't scold Santa for not paying his fair share of taxes.”

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 11:47 AM

    Perhaps it slipped your mind that “Santa Claus, Inc.” is a non-profit organization, as opposed to the Trump Family profit making cartel. As in...

    Mar 24, 2017 - Eric Trump said "we're doing great in all of our assets" for the Trump [brand, keeping]... the president of the United States, abreast of the family business profits.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 5:26 PM
  • "...have to go on is the DNC talking points."

    What are those?

    And I see that you don't know anyone that fits your description from above. Thought so.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 5:29 PM
  • "...begging for the U.S. to put up something to help secure their property."

    Ms. Jones, I'm very sure there those people, but maybe they should talk to their representatives.

    "No member of Congress who represents districts on the U.S.-Mexico border support funding President Trump's signature border wall, The Wall Street Journal reported on Friday."

    http://thehill.com/blogs/blog-briefing-room/news/330045-no-congress-members-alon...

    I have no objections whatsoever about helping landowners with security. And it may mean extending fences in certain areas (as is being done already) providing more sensors, using drones, and so on.

    The problem is the the President made a disingenuous, impractical "promise" over and over again, last year. (Even former Speaker Gingrich called the wall a great "campaign device" for getting votes.)

    Now the President, at least in his own mind, is "stuck" with a "commitment" that is unneeded, unwanted, unnecessary, unsought and unwelcome. Even the Border Patrol doesn't support it.

    Brandon Judd, the head of the Border Patrol Union, said

    "We're not talking about a great wall of the United States. We're not talking about a continuous wall from California down to Texas. We're talking about a wall in strategic locations which then helps the Border Patrol agents do their job better."

    http://www.npr.org/2017/01/26/511745401/head-of-border-patrol-union-on-trumps-wa...

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 5:46 PM
  • Thanks Doug, I knew presidents have always offered a budget but didn't know it was law.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Tue, Apr 25, 2017, at 11:08 PM

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

    Apparently some weren’t aware of where the “law” came from.

    Congress has the “power of the purse" that sets the budget.

    President Trump doesn’t and President Obama didn’t either.

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

    US Constitution, Article I, Section 7

    1: All Bills for raising Revenue shall originate in the House of Representatives; but the Senate may propose or concur with Amendments as on other Bills.

    2: Every Bill which shall have passed the House of Representatives and the Senate, shall, before it become a Law, be presented to the President of the United States…

    Furthermore...

    “A primary avenue for exercising Congress’s power of the purse is the authorization and appropriation of federal spending to carry out government activities. While the power over appropriations is granted to Congress by the U.S. Constitution, the authorization/appropriation process is derived from House and Senate rules.

    The formal process consists of two sequential steps:

    (1) enactment of an authorization measure that may create or continue an agency, program, or activity as well as authorize the subsequent enactment of appropriations; and

    (2) enactment of appropriations to provide funds for the authorized agency, program, or activity.”

    ftp://wkst65.oar.noaa.gov/FCAD/Overview%20of%20the%20Authorization-Appropriations%20Process.pdf

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 5:56 PM
  • The man who has never denied or confirmed being commonsensematters seems to be taking over the persona of mickcheck by arguing to be arguing. Now he is back to power of the purse to deflect away from the need for immigration law enforcement.

    Maybe he can explain the Taylor Force Act and tell us why all democrat senators are against it.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 6:21 PM
  • *

    "...have to go on is the DNC talking points."

    "What are those?"

    Common: Are you playing dumb or are you just dumb?

    "And I see that you don't know anyone that fits your description from above. Thought so."

    Common: If you would get out of your little trailer you would see those that I described in certain areas of Cape, Delta, Morley, Sikeston and other similar towns in SEMO.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 5:29 PM

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 6:38 PM
  • *

    Maybe he can explain the Taylor Force Act and tell us why all democrat senators are against it.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 6:21 PM

    OJ I read the summary of that bill and it is beyond me why any Senator would be against it unless there is something in the bill that wasn't covered in the summary.

    Sounds like something that should pass easily unless someone has something against the Israeli people.

    -- Posted by Karen Jones on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 6:58 PM
  • *

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 6:21 PM

    -- Posted by Karen Jones on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 6:58 PM

    OJ & Iamhere: Easy to explain, the Democrats are pro-Palestinian Authority and against Israel because that's what their Crawdad-In-Chief dictated.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 7:19 PM
  • David, I bounced around to different news outlets today and the big story is Trump's Tax plan proposal to congress. Seems to me the media overall thinks it is a no go already. The liberal mindset is still focused on the talking points that a tax cut for everyone benefits only the rich people.

    I wonder if the food bank pick up location is still the same in Scopus.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 8:58 PM
  • *

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 8:58 PM

    OJ: All the details of Trump's Tax proposals hasn't been made so how can the Snowflakes and the Snowflake News Media make a decision so fast....if everyone gets a 10% (just saying) a rich person or a poor person gets the same deal....that's the American freedom at work.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 9:18 PM
  • -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 5:56 PM

    Poor Rick Lettau - confused again.

    Either intentionally or simply confused he got all the steps of the law right except he stopped at the part where the President must sign it into law.

    You should have to pay tuition for the education you're getting on here.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 10:15 PM
  • Poor Mr. Williams, he must not be aware that the President can sign it or not sign it, but he can't change it. Should he decide to veto it, Congress can override his veto.

    Whatever the case, Congress has the power to decide what is in the budget, it's not the President's call.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 10:42 PM
  • ..and then there's this..

    ...........

    Trump backtracks: U.S. will not withdraw from NAFTA

    https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2017/04/26/president-trump-nafta-me...

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 7:41 AM
  • Whatever the case, Congress has the power to decide what is in the budget, it's not the President's call.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 10:42 PM

    A President doesn't sign-off on Congress budget ?

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 7:42 AM
  • Congress is Legislative , Laws .

    President is Executive , highest government leader in the United States .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 7:46 AM
  • *

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 7:41 AM

    Rick: The keyword is "renegotiate" to get a better deal for the USA. America First is the Art of the Deal.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 7:48 AM
  • "...you would see those that I described in certain areas of Cape, Delta, Morley, Sikeston and other similar towns in SEMO."

    Really? I have worked in SE Missouri for a few years, and have been to all those places and beyond, from Doniphan to East Prairie and from Perryville to Hornersville.

    Unfortunately, (or actually fortunately), unlike what you profess to know, I do not have the ability to meet or see someone and immediately be certain that they have...

    "no incentives to improve [them]selfs....sit on the couch and eat chips, talk on the free Obama cell phone, order [their] next supply of drugs, watch Oprah on new flat screen TV....only exercise is to go to the bank and cash welfare/unemployment checks unless [they] have direct deposit."

    Guess the question remains, "How are you able to tell so much about someone you don't even know?"

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 8:03 AM
  • It's from withdraw to renegotiate . Methinks it will go to never happen next . It's like his tax returns , it got shoved out of the way because of the wall news . It got shoved out of the way because of his tax cut news . Now his tax cut news gets shoved out of the way because of NAFTA .

    Nothing ever gets finalized or done , lots of jaw work .

    Almost like a weekly Reality Show , a new episode with different celebrities every week .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 8:03 AM
  • *

    Trump's tweet: "I received calls from the President of Mexico and the Prime Minister of Canada asking to renegotiate NAFTA rather than terminate. I agreed.."

    Sometimes a bluff works.

    *********

    Guess the question remains, "How are you able to tell so much about someone you don't even know?"-- Posted by Rick Lettau on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 8:03 AM

    Common: Who says I don't know any of these folks....do you think I'm going to list their names on this open forum - you must be dumb. BTW, guess the ones you visited in SEMO are only your rich Democratic friends.

    *********

    And that's the way it should be....Thursday April 27, 2017.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 8:13 AM
  • Whatever the case, Congress has the power to decide what is in the budget, it's not the President's call. -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Wed, Apr 26, 2017, at 10:42 PM

    Poor Mr. Lettau - trying to project such knowledge and authority. Good thing we have other sources.

    ===

    "Obama threatens to veto defense appropriations bill. By adding unrequested funding for defense, the House of Representatives departs from the bipartisan understanding reached a year ago."

    "With a pen stroke of his left hand, he sent the bill back to Congress, saying, "My message to them is simple. Let's do this right."

    Obama says you're wrong. On many occasions he vetoed or threatened to veto to influence BUDGET and APPROPRIATION dollars. Sad you vote and you don't even know this. Most people I know do.

    ===

    Or maybe empirical research which shows - once again - you're dead wrong:

    "Presidents exert budgetary influence over appropriation outcomes by making budgetary alterations based on their partisan preferences in conjunction with agency ideology... executive budgetary authority affords U.S. presidents with an institutional mechanism intended to effectively check congressional authority over federal budget policy"

    The statistical and mathematical formulations here might be more than you can handle but I assure you - I can handle it. If you'd like to see their research and findings you can here:

    http://www.pitt.edu/~gkrause/policy%20priorities.krause&cook.february%202012.man...

    ===

    Send your tuition check here:

    University of Pittsburgh

    4200 Fifth Avenue

    Pittsburgh, PA 15260

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 8:17 AM
  • "Who says I don't know any of these folks...."

    If they're your friends, fine, that's your business.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 9:12 AM
  • *

    Commie

    What do you think of your hero taking that $400,000.00 to speak? Is he on his way to become Bill Clinton’s replacement in the sell the Presidency game?

    They're no Harry Truman are they?

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 9:32 AM
  • *

    If they're your friends, fine, that's your business.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 9:12 AM

    Common: Who said that they are my friends, you need to work on your reading comprehension skills.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 9:35 AM
  • *

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 9:32 AM

    Wheels: Obama is going to surpass what Hillary and Bill did in speaking monies because that's all that Obama did during his 8 years - worked his mouth and campaigned.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 9:39 AM
  • Obama is going to surpass what Hillary and Bill did in speaking monies -- Posted by David Schaefer on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 9:39 AM

    There's every possibility that Obama could outdo the Clinton machine.

    He pushed the $1 TRILLION wasteful "stimulus" and a lot of his friends and donors did well with that taxpayer funded debacle. He even laughed "Shovel ready was not really shovel ready as we expected."

    It's pay back time. I laugh how Mr. Lettau can buy Obama's "fatcat" comments all the time and now Obama's getting "fatcat" money. $400,000 / hour.

    Remember when Obama said "I do think at a certain point you made enough money."? I guess $400,000/hour isn't enough?

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 9:46 AM
  • Poor Mr. Williams, he must not be aware that the President can sign it or not sign it, but he can't change it. Should he decide to veto it, Congress can override his veto.

    Guess someone missed these facts.

    “…threatens to veto…”

    “…sent the bill back to Congress…”

    “…to influence BUDGET and APPROPRIATION dollars.”

    “…exert budgetary influence…”

    “…an institutional mechanism intended to effectively check…”

    There you go with your own words. Threaten, influence, send back, exert, intended, and so on. Nowhere does it say the President is the “sole authority” in determining the budget.

    In fact the opposite is true, Congress is the “sole authority.” A veto-proof, bipartisan Congress can have the final say every time. A divided Congress may be more susceptible to Presidential pressure, but it still has to finalize the budget law for signature.

    “Interestingly enough, presidents are not any more successful in shaping budgetary outcomes in times of unified party government.” So says Prof. Krause.

    Suggest you give it up, Mr. Williams, the Constitution is not going to change simply to suit your views.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 9:51 AM
  • -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 9:51 AM

    Obama says you're wrong. Independent empirical research on this very topic says you're wrong. No surprise your obtuseness is so partisan-based.

    Gonna take more than your Marble Hill morning coffee shop expertise. Sorry - you have no credibility here.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 9:53 AM
  • My guess would be Mr.Bo Jangles is cashing in by toying with the young's emotions and also has money earned in the Health Care Socialist game , or Obamacare Market . Who would of thought such an honest and caring man of the poor would take advantage of them by stealing their money .

    Socialism , keeping People equally poor since 1917 . Well , by taking advantage of most the People anyway .

    .............

    .............

    Obama Balances Civic-Minded Side With the Lure of a $400,000 Speech

    Former President Barack Obama spoke during an event at the University of Chicago on Monday.

    WASHINGTON — Two post-presidential Barack Obamas emerged this week.

    The first was the civic-minded one, seated on a stage in Chicago, where he talked about the importance of community organizing and told a student audience that he had succeeded in politics because people believed “my values were not so different from theirs.”

    The other was the one set to cash a $400,000 check from Wall Street — the same amount as his yearly salary during his time in the White House — when he delivers a speech in September at a health care conference run by Cantor Fitzgerald, a trading and investment firm.

    On Wednesday, Mr. Obama’s spokesman defended the former president’s coming speech, saying Mr. Obama decided to give it because health care changes were important to him. The spokesman, Eric Schultz, noted that Cantor Fitzgerald is a Wall Street firm but pointed out in a statement that as a presidential candidate, Mr. Obama raised money from Wall Street and went on to aggressively regulate it.

    Mr. Obama will spend most of his post-presidency, Mr. Schultz said, “training and elevating a new generation of political leaders in America.”

    https://www.nytimes.com/2017/04/26/us/politics/obama-speech-fee.html?_r=0

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 9:58 AM
  • -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 9:51 AM

    No USA spending , or Budget , will happen without the Congress and President approval .

    Period .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 10:01 AM
  • Without both , the Government shuts down .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 10:03 AM
  • Without both , the Government shuts down . -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 10:03 AM

    That, for some reason, is a really hard concept for Rick Lettau to grasp. Or could it be his loyalty to his party is his real motivation? Surely not! LOL!

    Seems to influence everything he posts.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 10:27 AM
  • *

    -- Posted by Doug Williams on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 10:27 AM

    Doug: Common is definitely under the influence of something.☺

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 11:15 AM
  • Common is definitely under the influence of something.☺ -- Posted by David Schaefer on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 11:15 AM

    I gotta get some of that Marble Hill coffee shop liquid. Sounds like it gives him a huge escape from reality. :-)

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 11:25 AM
  • This insistence that the President, not Congress, has final budgetary authority is getting more than a bit humorous.

    Why is President Trump going to Congress for budget approval when some believe it's entirely within his authority?

    If Mr. Williams was correct, there would be about $25 billion in the current budget for the infamous wall. Guess what, it's not there.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 11:52 AM
  • Why is President Trump going to Congress for budget approval when some believe it's entirely within his authority?

    ..........

    It is not entirely a President's authority . Why is this so hard to understand ?

    No USA spending , or Budge , will happen without both the Congress and President approval .

    Period .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 11:56 AM
  • This insistence that the President, not Congress, has final budgetary authority is getting more than a bit humorous. -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 11:52 AM

    Your continual use of straw man arguments is a revelation in your inability to admit you're wrong.

    The only person who insisted that the President, not Congress, has final budgetary authority is you.

    All I've said is that the president AND congress have budgetary authority.

    You failed. Try another straw man.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 12:01 PM
  • I know several People in St.Louis who live in the Branch , Hebert , Sullivan , 14th Street , Hodiamont area who don't buy their cell phones , they share Government cell phones , Obama phones . They don't buy their own food or pay their rent , they share Government Entitlements and now have Insurance too . Their economy is mainly based on drugs , guns , and Government benefits . People keep their mouths shut about these things too , it's their lively hood , it's how they live . There are more doll houses then LEOs , folks who make waves have a way of disappearing . And it's not just People with black skin . Folks have TV's , cable , micro waves , the daily life things . They get robbed , shot for being robbed when the word gets out , it's their way of life . People who don't know all of these things need to spend a month around the place , seeing is believing .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 12:09 PM
  • Those who don't believe the President and Congress have equal powers regarding spending must forget Obama's great excuse "I can't get anything done because of the do nothing Congress!"

    This is what's hilarious...

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 12:26 PM
  • *

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 12:09 PM

    Rick: Everyone knows this except the Sage of Marble Hill.

    *******

    Off of here for awhile....got to get some things done before the next rains.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 12:32 PM
  • “All I've said is that the president AND congress have budgetary authority.”

    Backing off already. That is funny.

    “Authorization bills are part of an authorization-appropriation process created by House and Senate rules governing spending. The spending process has two steps. First, an authorization bill is enacted. Authorization bills "may create or continue an agency, program, or activity as well as authorize the subsequent enactment of appropriations." The second step is for an appropriations bill to be enacted. The appropriations bill provides the funding needed for the agency, program, or activity that was just authorized by the enacted authorization bill.”

    The President can sign or not sign the laws. He can veto them, which Congress can override. He can also try to persuade Congress to modify or alter their laws.

    He has no authority to “command” the budget process.

    Here, read it for yourself.

    http://constitutionus.com/

    Just adding some misguided or cockamamie claim to “get the last word in” is meaningless, but go ahead if it makes you happy.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 2:33 PM
  • “…taking that $400,000.00 to speak?”

    Needless to say, it hasn't happened yet, so he hasn’t taken anything. It is, however, comical to hear this kind of whining from the President Trump supporters.

    The same President Trump who just proposed the "Trump Family and Cabinet Tax Elimination and Relief Act" which will eliminate the alternative minimum tax and the estate tax. (Recall that his "supposed" one-page 2005 tax form showed he paid about $35 million in alternative minimum tax. Best eliminate that puppy.)

    Between him, his family and his Cabinet, they should get a few hundred billion dollar tax windfall in the future.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 2:46 PM
  • With the snap of the fingers there is a do something Congress and a do nothing President . But then , a lot of times it's a matter of opinion , the difference between a vivid imagination and Blind Faith .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 3:08 PM
  • No USA spending , or Budge , will happen without both the Congress and President approval .

    Period .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 3:10 PM
  • “…taking that $400,000.00 to speak?”

    Needless to say, it hasn't happened yet, so he hasn’t taken anything. It is, however, comical to hear this kind of whining from the President Trump supporters.

    ............

    Have to tell the Blind Faith Obama supports over and over and over , I'm Independent . The man made the speech on Monday , April 24 , 2017 , and received $400,000 .

    I'll post it again , I'm Independent . Why is this so hard to understand ?

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 3:14 PM
  • It is, however, comical to hear this kind of whining from the President Trump supporters. -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 2:46 PM

    The only comedy here is you. You back a man who talks about "fatcats" and "at some point you've made enough" class warfare for 8 years. And he takes $400,000/hour for a speech less than 100 days out of the office.

    As another person said... looks like your man Obama is really a dirty capitalist. WOW - he really hoodwinked you. You bought his love of the poor man hook, line and sinker didn't ya?

    He makes you look foolish ever single day. Every. One.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 3:18 PM
  • Oh - forgot to teach you, once again, what DEMOCRATS and LIBERALS are saying about your beloved Obama. Makes you look even worse. At least they get it:

    Huffington Post: "his unseemly and unnecessary cash-in fits a pattern of bad behavior involving the financial sector, one that spans Obama’s entire presidency. That governing failure convinced millions of his onetime supporters that the president and his party were not, in fact, playing for their team, and helped pave the way for President Donald Trump. Obama isn’t running for office again, but his sellout sends even uglier signals to the electorate."

    BBC: "In 2009, he told CBS: "I did not run for office to be helping out a bunch of fat cat bankers on Wall Street. The New York Post, meanwhile, said his speech made him "Wall Street's newest fat cat".

    NY TIMES: "But the former president’s departure from office was also marked by the mother of all parties: a celebrity-filled White House romp two weeks before Inauguration Day. Throughout his years in the White House, Mr. Obama championed the problems of the poor even as he showed an affinity for Hollywood superstars, elite artists and technology billionaires."

    DEMOCRAT Elizabeth Warren: "Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren gently criticized former president Barack Obama Thursday for his decision to accept $400,000 from a Wall Street firm to speak at a health care conference this fall.... Money is “the snake that slithers through Washington. The influence of dollars on this place is what scares me. I think it ultimately threatens democracy.”

    Washington Post: "“4 reasons Obama’s $400,000 Wall Street speech is a bad idea.” 1. It continues to set a dubious precedent 2. We have other rules against retroactively cashing in 3. Democrats are trying to be the anti-Wall Street party 4. Obama himself discussed the corrupting influence of such arrangements in his book"

    ===

    Need more examples of DEMOCRATS and LIBERALS attacking your beloved Obama?

    Now THAT'S comical!

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 3:33 PM
  • Now watch what you say or they'll be calling you a radical, Liberal, fanatical, criminal. Won't you sign up your name

    ~~ Supertramp

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 4:03 PM
  • "Have to tell the Blind Faith Obama supports over and over and over , I'm Independent."

    Mr. Scaggs,

    I really don't care whether you're a republican, independent, liberal, conservative, progressive, democrat, green alien, or purple-people-eater.

    I do know that your persona and image as an indisputable "blind Obama hater" makes you appear to be less than a rational or coherent individual.

    For example, former President Obama did not make a "...speech on Monday , April 24 , 2017 , and received $400,000."

    As I've said many times before (over and over and over), my appreciation of President Obama's service is by no means "blind." If it makes you happy to claim that, have at it, it's your privilege to cling to whatever fallacies you choose to, but there's nothing that says I have to pay any attention whatsoever.

    Have a good night.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 7:00 PM
  • -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 7:00 PM

    Democrats and Liberals think Obama's speech for $400,000 in one hour is wrong.

    It's your privilege to cling to whatever fallacies you choose to, but there's nothing that says I have to pay any attention whatsoever.

    Have a good night. Respectfully.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 7:45 PM
  • Oh yes - Obama just did another $400,000 speaking. Sorry you missed that...

    "Obama made another $400,000 on Thursday when he appeared at the A&E Networks advertising upfront at The Pierre Hotel. He was interviewed over 90 minutes at the Midtown Manhattan event by presidential historian Doris Kearns Goodwin in front of the cable network’s advertisers."

    http://nypost.com/2017/04/27/obama-scores-another-400k-speaking-fee-amid-critici...

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 7:48 PM
  • hey Trump , the NAFTA has been re-negotiated 11 times already , you said canceled , done away with , America first

    wazzup ?

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 7:48 PM
  • Rick Lettau

    My father was Mr.Scaggs

    Stop claiming I'm a conservative and I'll stop posting you are a Blind Faith Obama supporter , I've only posted this 100 times ...don't start none and there won't be none

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 7:51 PM
  • For example, former President Obama did not make a "...speech on Monday , April 24 , 2017 , and received $400,000."

    ........

    uumm , a contract is a contract..as I say..Blind

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 7:53 PM
  • Some people still understand the importance of liberty and some people are more than willing to trade it for promise.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 10:42 PM
  • Some choose Liberty before selling out to the likes of Obama and Trump , the (D) or the (R) , their false word salads leading down Blind rabbit holes or over cliffs .

    Liberty is Free of political alphabet shackles .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 5:52 AM
  • Elizabeth Warren: I'm 'troubled' by Obama's $400,000 speaking fee for healthcare conference

    Elizabeth Warren isn't too keen about former President Barack Obama's $400,000 fee to address a Wall Street conference on healthcare this fall.

    "I was troubled by that," the Massachusetts senator said Thursday during an interview with the SiriusXM show "Alter Family Politics" on Radio Andy.

    She then proceeded to discuss her disdain for "the influence of money" in the nation's capital.

    http://abcnews.go.com/Politics/elizabeth-warren-troubled-obamas-400000-speaking-...

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 7:45 AM
  • *

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 7:45 AM

    Rick: $400,000 for one speech vs. $400,000 per Presidential salary for one year....quite a difference. It takes a lot of money to lead a Shadow Government.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 8:21 AM
  • *

    "Obama made another $400,000 on Thursday when he appeared at the A&E Networks advertising upfront at The Pierre Hotel. He was interviewed over 90 minutes at the Midtown Manhattan event by presidential historian Doris Kearns Goodwin in front of the cable network’s advertisers." New York Post

    One down one to go with many to follow - what could one person have to say that is worth that much money.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 8:33 AM
  • "I love myself and you should keep on loving me too."

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 8:36 AM
  • Wow. We find out about two $400,000 speeches already lined up. One down, another to go.

    Has anyone seen Mr. Lettau this morning? What does he have to say about an ultra rich Obama ($60 MILLION book deal) who chastised people who made money? Who bought these lies?

    - "spread the wealth"

    - "fatcats on Wall Street"

    - "at some point you've made enough money"

    - "To avoid being mistaken for a sellout, I chose my friends carefully... the Marxist professors and structural feminists and punk-rock performance poets."

    - "We didn't become the most prosperous country in the world just by rewarding greed and recklessness... we built this country by making things, by producing goods we could sell."

    ===

    Obama the marxist, socialist... rich, greedy capitalist? He's always talked the talked. He's never walked the walk.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 9:30 AM
  • "...what could one person have to say that is worth that much money."

    Guess you're unaware that he's a private citizen.

    What he does is none of my business nor is it any of your business. Get over it.

    Possibly you might be more concerned about the Trump family business ripping off the government.

    Must not bother you that Mar-a-Lago entry fee went from $100,000 to $200,000 (and would probably be $400,000 soon if they stay open more than 1/2 a year.)

    That's called pay to play, right?

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 9:44 AM
  • Michelle Obama has books of her own already...

    ...............

    https://www.amazon.com/s/?ie=UTF8&keywords=michelle+obama+books&tag=mh0b-20&inde...

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 9:49 AM
  • Rick Lettau

    Name one President who didn't make millions while in the White House .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 9:50 AM
  • *

    That's called pay to play, right?

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 9:44 AM

    Common: Just like the Clinton's pay for play Foundation. If there was an honest DOJ and not Loretta Lynch both Hillary and Bill would be in jail. BTW, glad Obama is a private citizen.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 9:55 AM
  • This is the crux of the North Korea issue…

    SecState Tillerson yesterday:

    “We have been very clear as to what our objectives are. And equally clear what our objectives are not. And we do not seek regime change, we do not seek a collapse of the regime, we do not seek an accelerated reunification of the peninsula. We seek a denuclearized Korean Peninsula — and again that is entirely consistent with the objectives of others in the region as well.”

    President Trump yesterday:

    "There's a chance that we could end up having a major, major, conflict with North Korea, absolutely."

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

    Kim Jung-un says they need nuclear weapons for “self-defense” and President Trump plays right into his hands by threatening a “major, major, conflict.”

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 10:21 AM
  • "...would be in jail."

    So should President Trump go to jail for doing the same thing?

    Or is it OK if he does it?

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 10:24 AM
  • *

    Or is it OK if he does it?

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 10:24 AM

    Common: Since he is the president he can pardon himself. LOL

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 10:36 AM
  • Guess you're unaware that he's a private citizen. What he does is none of my business nor is it any of your business. Get over it.

    Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 9:44 AM

    And yet...you seem to think that President Trump's income tax returns, filed as a private citizen, should be public information. Double standard??

    -- Posted by Donna Runnels on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 10:53 AM
  • What he does is none of my business nor is it any of your business. -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 9:44 AM

    Definitely a double standard Mr. Lettau has Donna! You see it every day.

    What Obama does IS my business when he's a president who is personally responsible for the weakest economic recovery in history - weaker recover than even the great depression. When he raises taxes on workers and derides people who make good money. Then he gets suckers to vote for him based on his fake persona and gets paid $400,000 / hour just to open his mouth.

    Trump never raised my taxes. Trump never derided my income. Trump is a billionaire. I could care less.

    Hypocrisy is the problem Lettau. You and your president are classic cases of it.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 11:02 AM
  • *

    Sometimes the World bully Kim Jung needs to be called out....need to know when to hold and when to fold.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 11:13 AM
  • -- Posted by David Schaefer on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 11:59 AM
  • "...you seem to think that President Trump's income tax returns, filed as a private citizen, should be public information. Double standard?"

    Depending when he files, the last return was as President, and the majority of voters say he should release his returns.

    Furthermore, all recent presidential candidates have released them, and all Presidents since Nixon have released, not one, but multiple returns.

    The double standard is that President Trump must consider himself extraordinarily "special" so only he does not need to follow precedent.

    What it boils down to is, "What does he have to hide?"

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 2:05 PM
  • "...the World bully Kim Jung needs to be called out."

    Rather than being a "bully" he seems to be an unbalanced "hermit" ruler who uses missiles and nuclear power to command attention. Were it not for his tests of bombs, missiles, no country would pay attention to him.

    The biggest problem today is he is being faced by someone who often acts similarly unbalanced.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 2:16 PM
  • *

    The biggest problem today is he is being faced by someone who often acts similarly unbalanced.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 2:16 PM

    Common: Obama is gone, time to get current.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 2:47 PM
  • I am, tell me who said this?

    "Number One, there's great responsibility. When it came time to, as an example, send out the 59 missiles, the Tomahawks in Syria. I'm saying to myself, "You know, this is more than just like, 79 (sic) missiles. This is death that's involved," because people could have been killed. This is risk that's involved, because if the missile goes off and goes in a city or goes in a civilian area — you know, the boats were hundreds of miles away — and if this missile goes off and lands in the middle of a town or a hamlet .... every decision is much harder than you'd normally make. (unintelligible) ... This is involving death and life and so many things. ... So it's far more responsibility. (unintelligible) ....The financial cost of everything is so massive, every agency. This is thousands of times bigger, the United States, than the biggest company in the world. The second-largest company in the world is the Defense Department. The third-largest company in the world is Social Security. The fourth-largest — you know, you go down the list."

    ...and what does it mean?

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 3:09 PM
  • Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 2:05 PM

    Trump did not take office until 1/2017. This return was for 2016. He was a private citizen in 2016. And to quote you, "Guess you're unaware that he's a private citizen. What he does is none of my business nor is it any of your business. Get over it."

    -- Posted by Donna Runnels on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 3:09 PM
  • Depending when he files, the last return was as President, and the majority of voters say he should release his returns. -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 2:05 PM

    What he does is none of my business nor is it any of your business. -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 9:44 AM

    Pure hypocrisy. It's the one thing you've been consistent about in 10 years.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 3:20 PM
  • The ACA was a guaranteed more affordable health care for all Americans , Obamacare , the signature Legislation . It has gave millions health insurance . Blah , blah , blah...The point being , the person who made all of this happen is putting money in their back pocket after the fact , an elected official of the People , now that's a double standard crime of the worse kind . Those who elected him and support him have no problem with these actions , actually , they're giving him the thumbs up , good job !! Socialism 101 , btw..

    The book is a whole different deal , if Obama can get $60 million , go for it . If somebody's crazy enough to pay it , hey , take it . If People want to read the Socialism hype , what are you going to do ?

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 3:24 PM
  • Turn blame on Trump for Obama ripping off the tax payers now .

    Great logic right there .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 3:27 PM
  • ....that Obama Legacy...the Obama Agenda...

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 3:28 PM
  • "What he does is none of my business nor is it any of your business."

    Sorry, if he wants to be President, it is our business. All of previous President's since Nixon, have released the first tax return after their inauguration. He was not a "private citizen" on April 18th.

    Again, what do you think he's hiding?

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 3:41 PM
  • That's called pay to play, right?

    What it boils down to is, "What does he have to hide?"

    I am, tell me who said this?

    ...and what does it mean?

    Not too many answers coming forward. Maybe the questions should be made easier.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 3:53 PM
  • Who care about Trump's taxes , what does it matter ?

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 5:26 PM
  • What do Trump's personal income taxes have to do with him being the elected President , how does it affect his responsibilities as Commander in Chief or head of the Executive staff ?

    Or is it just more whining over the rejection of the Obama Agenda effective Nov.8 2016 ?

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 5:31 PM
  • Obama was President from 2008 through 2016 , he pressed and passed the PPACA . Obama is now taking $400 Grand from Wall Street Health care executives . It is our business , what do you think he's hiding ?

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 5:41 PM
  • Nothing, what do you think he's hiding?

    Think back a bit. The ACA doesn't effect those on Medicaid and Medicare, nor those with employer provided health care, who's left?

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 5:56 PM
  • *

    ...and what does it mean?

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 3:09 PM

    Common: That you cut and paste whatever the DNC puts out on their website as talking points to the brain washed Democrats. Sorry but you asked.

    **********

    Think back a bit. The ACA doesn't effect those on Medicaid and Medicare, nor those with employer provided health care, who's left?

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 5:56 PM

    Common: The Blood Sucking Freeloaders who vote Democratic. Sorry but you asked.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 6:23 PM
  • *

    Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 5:56 PM

    There is no law that says any candidate of any kind has to make their taxes public.

    One freaking candidate did it and others just followed for whatever reason.

    To me, I don't care. I think that is a private matter and each candidate should have their right to privacy and should be able to choose if they want to or not.

    If you are joining those who are trying to demand he release them then why don't you put yours in the newspaper if you think it isn't a private matter?

    -- Posted by Karen Jones on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 6:48 PM
  • *

    IMO: Until Congress enacts a Law stating that all candidates for President or current President must release their income tax returns, then it's up to each person to release or not release.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 6:54 PM
  • -- Posted by Karen Jones on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 6:55 PM
  • ...and what does it mean?

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 3:09 PM

    "Common: That you cut and paste whatever the DNC puts out..."

    I have no idea what you're talking about. What DNC?

    The post was an extract of the transcript of President Trump's interview with the AP. His exact words. What did he mean?

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 7:12 PM
  • "...why don't you put yours in the newspaper..."

    Were I running for political office, or in office, I would have. Since I'm not, what's your point?

    Back to the question, "What's he hiding?"

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 7:15 PM
  • "...then it's up to each person to release or not release."

    That's correct. Those past Presidents and candidates that had nothing to hide, released their tax returns.

    What's that tell you?

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 7:17 PM
  • *

    The post was an extract of the transcript of President Trump's interview with the AP. His exact words. What did he mean? -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri,Apr 28, 2017,at 7:12 PM

    Common: Your 3:09pm did not list any link....believe you just cut and paste like I pointed out earlier from the DNC (Democratic National Committee) like you didn't know....you are not fooling anyone little Snowflake.

    *********

    What's that tell you?-- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 7:17 PM

    Common: It tells me that Pres. Trump doesn't want to release his income tax return which unless a Law is passed by Congress is his rights.

    *********

    Common: What about a full release of an independent audit of the Clinton Foundation....wonder how much money went to the DOJ and FBI to cover up her email scandal. What's that tell you that they haven't.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 7:45 PM
  • Common is doing the same thing he did before when he constantly kept demanding Obama provide his birth certificate.

    I'm not posting my tax returns on Social media because what I have to hide is just how little money I earned last year. Mr Common has a big military pension and is engaged in construction and releases his returns and financial statements all the time.

    I plan to run for office as soon as someone will pay for, publish and purchase my book for $7million when I get around to writing it.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 8:13 PM
  • "...the same thing he did before when he constantly kept demanding Obama provide his birth certificate."

    I have no need for former President Obama to produce anything. There is no doubt that he was born in Hawaii.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 8:44 PM
  • "Your 3:09pm did not list any link."

    Here it is. I had believed that most could find the AP interview on the internet without help.

    https://apnews.com/c810d7de280a47e88848b0ac74690c83

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 8:48 PM
  • Commom is so wrapped up in his defense of everything Obama and his despise of Trump he can't recognize sarcasm and fun'n.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 8:49 PM
  • Make sure you read the whole thing. You'll get kick out of it. So will Mr. Williams.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 8:50 PM
  • *

    Here it is. I had believed that most could find the AP interview on the internet without help.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 8:48 PM

    Common: There you go again that poor reading comprehension....what I wrote was "Your 3:09pm did not list any link". Now at that time I didn't know that you would provide it on a 7:12 pm posting - I'm not a mind reader or a time traveler.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 8:58 PM
  • "...and his despise of Trump..."

    "Despise" is the wrong word. It's more a matter of feeling sorry for him because he is so totally out of his element.

    As in this...

    "I loved my previous life. I had so many things going," he [Trump]told Reuters in an interview. "This is more work than in my previous life. I thought it would be easier."

    http://www.vox.com/policy-and-politics/2017/4/28/15467670/donald-trump-president...

    or this...

    "Now, I have to tell you, it's an unbelievably complex subject," he added. "Nobody knew health care could be so complicated."

    http://www.cnn.com/2017/02/27/politics/trump-health-care-complicated/

    Sadly, this is not sarcasm.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 9:01 PM
  • "I'm not a mind reader or a time traveler."

    That's not unexpected. So now that you have the link, what was President Trump trying to get across?

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 9:10 PM
  • *

    That's not unexpected. So now that you have the link, what was President Trump trying to get across?

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 9:10 PM

    Common: Can't you read and figure things out by yourself....if I'm going to have to teach you what you can't figure out for yourself, I'll claim you on my income tax return as a dependent. Do you have any grandchildren maybe they can help you.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 9:23 PM
  • *

    Common: What about a full release of an independent audit of the Clinton Foundation....wonder how much money went to the DOJ and FBI to cover up her email scandal. What's that tell you that they haven't.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 7:45 PM

    Common: What no comment from you.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 9:26 PM
  • "...figure things out by yourself...."

    I know what he's talking about. It's just unbelievable that the President of the United States cannot put one comprehendible, intelligible sentence together.

    "What no comment from you."

    Look it up if you're interested. I'm not.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 9:42 PM
  • *

    I know what he's talking about. -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 9:42 PM

    Common: Then why ask me if you already know. Looks like he explained it alright if you understood what he said.

    Good night stay dry.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 9:50 PM
  • "...explained it alright..."

    He explained like a second grader.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 9:58 PM
  • *

    He explained like a second grader.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 9:58 PM

    Common: Guess he was addressing his comments to you and other Democrats levels....a great communicator Trump is.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 10:18 PM
  • It's just unbelievable that the President of the United States cannot put one comprehendible, intelligible sentence together. -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 9:42 PM

    Yet he beat Hillary. Yet your party has been absolutely pummeled since Obamacare passed in 2010 at every level of government. That's all anyone needs to know about your opinion - it's a loser every time.

    Most folks I know don't worship politicians like you do. We have a greater calling in life than party or president. You, on the other hand, are obsessed with people who can "lead" you and tuck you in at night. It's obvious.

    I don't care about Trumps taxes. I don't care about his words. I care about whatever actions he takes that may affect me. Just like with Obama. He lied constantly and was a buffoon. That didn't bother me - it was his largest in US history tax increases, massive debt and weakening of the US that bothered me. And he's gone.

    Maybe you should go to church some time Lettau? It might save your life.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 11:16 PM
  • Nothing, what do you think he's hiding?

    Think back a bit. The ACA doesn't effect those on Medicaid and Medicare, nor those with employer provided health care, who's left?

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 5:56 PM

    It should be a Federal crime for an Elected Official to earn income from Federal mandated Federal Laws they initiated and passed . This is what was hidden , at no time was this made public .

    "The ACA doesn't effect those on Medicaid and Medicare" ?? What ? Same thing .

    It does affect those with employer provided health care . Layoffs means workers must find their own insurance . Unions are losing Health care benefits in new contracts .

    It does affect Medicare , supplement insurance agencies are going out of business and Medicare patients are losings their supplement coverage .

    A question , if the PPACA was passed to lower health care costs coverage , why doesn't it affect all 100% of health care at a better coverage at a more affordable cost for all 100% American citizens ? It's only for non--Employer provided , Medicare , etc..why the hype , what's the point ?

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sat, Apr 29, 2017, at 7:21 AM
  • But now , "replace and repeal" will affect millions when before "The ACA doesn't effect those on Medicaid and Medicare, nor those with employer provided health care, who's left?" ?

    Why the panic , what's there to hide ?

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sat, Apr 29, 2017, at 7:24 AM
  • Nothing, what do you think he's hiding?

    Think back a bit. The ACA doesn't effect those on Medicaid and Medicare, nor those with employer provided health care, who's left?

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, Apr 28, 2017, at 5:56 PM

    He's hiding the fact from the USA citizens who elected him that he made a deal with Wall Street Health Care industry investers to earn income on his mandatory PPACA Federal Law.

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sat, Apr 29, 2017, at 7:44 AM
  • Or , as they say , kick backbacks ...

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sat, Apr 29, 2017, at 7:55 AM
  • Who cares about Trumps taxes , are they kickbacks to the citizens who rejected Clinton and the Obama Agenda ?

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sat, Apr 29, 2017, at 8:00 AM
  • *

    Was just sitting here thinking in the early morning quiet..... Monday, if our luck holds out, will mark two weeks with no MissMe'L or Theorist. No ignorant putting people down and claiming superiority from MissMe'L and the near daily Dump on Trump by Theorist gone.

    Want to know something...... I haven't missed either one of them.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Sat, Apr 29, 2017, at 8:33 AM
  • *

    Morning Wheels: The sock puppets don't have their own identity so they can't be on these forums anymore. BTW, it makes for more adult comments.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Sat, Apr 29, 2017, at 8:46 AM
  • Wheels

    I believe Theorist reads a lot and will just join eventually , I miss her .

    As for MicCheck , they posted at work , or so they claimed . If so , the boss probably put the nix on that , playing at work instead of actually working get's a person fired .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sat, Apr 29, 2017, at 8:55 AM
  • MicCheck's mental capacity was lacking any , a 5 year old attempting to correct adults .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sat, Apr 29, 2017, at 8:58 AM
  • *

    I believe Theorist reads a lot and will just join eventually , I miss her .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sat, Apr 29, 2017, at 8:55 AM

    Rick: She is probably creating a new identity from those folks that make up fake IDs and the like.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Sat, Apr 29, 2017, at 9:03 AM
  • *

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Sat, Apr 29, 2017, at 8:46 AM

    Semo, I believe one had a real identity and the other was a sock puppet. Either way, the puppet master or the actual poster doesn't have the intestinal fortitude to be identified after the foolishness they posted.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Sat, Apr 29, 2017, at 9:05 AM
  • That's cool , Free Speech , I liked the old rules better myself .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sat, Apr 29, 2017, at 9:06 AM
  • *

    "I believe Theorist reads a lot and will just join eventually , I miss her ."

    Rick, the way I look at that..... one probably would miss a toothache once it went away.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Sat, Apr 29, 2017, at 9:10 AM
  • Theorist had her moments but I guess we all do .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sat, Apr 29, 2017, at 9:11 AM
  • "...he made a deal with Wall Street Health Care industry investers to earn income on his mandatory PPACA Federal Law."

    Possibly you should check with the republican/conservatives about this.

    It seems that they claim that all insurance companies are bailing out of the ACA because they are not making any money.

    And if the republican/conservatives are correct (as they always are), how can the "investers" be earning any income.

    It is curious, almost fascinating, to witness your continuing obsession with the ACA, particularly as it effects so few.

    I know it has little effect on me and have never seen anything factual as to how it effects you.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Sat, Apr 29, 2017, at 10:23 AM
  • *

    BIt is curious, almost fascinating, to witness your continuing obsession with the ACA, particularly as it effects so few."

    Don't try acting stupid Common. That piece of garbage legislation has cost taxpayers plenty. Insurance Premiums are going through the roof on Individual plans, some plans have been dropped by insurers, deductibles are sky high in many cases and taxpayers are subsidizing Obamacare policyholders in most cases.

    So don't sit there and tell us very few people are affected. Very few are not touched by this garbage legislation.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Sat, Apr 29, 2017, at 10:41 AM
  • So don't sit there and tell us very few people are affected. Very few are not touched by this garbage legislation. -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Sat, Apr 29, 2017, at 10:41 AM

    And as I've posted numerous times before, with Common it's always about "me". If I'm not affected then I don't care what happens to others. He's pushed that message over and over.

    The fact that the largest tax increase in US history was in Obamacare, that seniors health care costs are up due to taxes on medical devices, that companies are dropping employees from full-time to part-time to avoid Obamacare and the fact that it is failing is all OK.

    As long as it doesn't affect him, who cares about the rest of the country?

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Sat, Apr 29, 2017, at 10:53 AM
  • *

    As long as it doesn't affect him, who cares about the rest of the country?

    -- Posted by Doug Williams on Sat, Apr 29, 2017, at 10:53 AM

    That, and covering for the failure of leadership during the Obama years is and has been his stock in trade since he started posting.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Sat, Apr 29, 2017, at 11:01 AM
  • "...he made a deal with Wall Street Health Care industry investers to earn income on his mandatory PPACA Federal Law."

    Possibly you should check with the republican/conservatives about this.

    It seems that they claim that all insurance companies are bailing out of the ACA because they are not making any money.

    And if the republican/conservatives are correct (as they always are), how can the "investers" be earning any income.

    It is curious, almost fascinating, to witness your continuing obsession with the ACA, particularly as it effects so few.

    I know it has little effect on me and have never seen anything factual as to how it effects you.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Sat, Apr 29, 2017, at 10:23 AM

    I think for myself , I don't have to check with any political Party . As I've said , I'm Independent , I think independently on my own , shall we go back to Blind Faith Obama supporter ? The investers would be Wall Street and Barack Obama is getting his money back on the deal , he would be a criminal .

    I'm obsessed with the ACA because it's money out of my pocket , it's a mandate that forces me to purchase a commerce against my will , it's un-Constitutionsal .

    What's curious is how you now claim it affects so few but other times claim repeal and replace will lose millions from insurance coverage . Which will it be ?

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sat, Apr 29, 2017, at 11:14 AM
  • It the ACA affects so very few , what is it's purpose , why did it have to be a Federal Mandate to all 100% Americans ?

    Why not just the few ?

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sat, Apr 29, 2017, at 11:19 AM
  • No where in the USA Constitution does it say a person must purchase a commerce . Actually , they have the unalienable Right not to .

    ...............

    UNALIENABLE.

    The state of a thing or right which cannot be sold.

    http://www.gemworld.com/USA-Unalienable.htm

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sat, Apr 29, 2017, at 11:33 AM
  • And a President definitely doesn't have the Right to initiate any Law and then receive income off that Law after they leave office . This is a crime of conflict of interest to the highest degree .

    It's theft off of the common good of the citizens who elected them , or , theft of tax money .

    A theft and a cheat .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sat, Apr 29, 2017, at 11:37 AM
  • One example , not the only , that Barack Obama is the worse President in the history of the United States of America .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sat, Apr 29, 2017, at 11:41 AM
  • *

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sat, Apr 29, 2017, at 11:33 AM

    Rick: The SCOTUS ruled that Obamacare was a tax and is the only way it was not ruled unconstitutional.

    The Blood Sucking Freeloaders have their mandated insurance subsided by the Taxpayers.

    Question: If the BSFs want their free food, feed cell phones, free insurance, monthly free checks to continue, what pray tell political party will have their votes. And the Liberals brag that Hillary got 2.5 million more popular votes - wonders never cease.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Sat, Apr 29, 2017, at 12:00 PM
  • David

    Yeah , I know . To me , when the Law was written and passed , the premise and purpose was a Law to force me to buy a commerce against my will . Now it's tax to force me to purchase a commerce against my will .

    Maybe someday that tax will be taken away . Either way , it's all on Obama and he's making money off of it now . He's a criminal , a theif , and what Socialist do , force People to be equally poor at their expense while People love them .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sat, Apr 29, 2017, at 2:52 PM
  • If it truly does affect the so very few then those who care so much are more then Free to have more taxes deducted from their own personal income for the cause and leave everyone else alone .

    There are W-4 Federal Tax deduction forms a person can fill out to deduct addition taxes from their income at any time they wish . Hell , they can have an extra 50% deducted from their personal income for the cause if they want .

    Don't try to force everyone to believe as they do , leave everyone else alone .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sat, Apr 29, 2017, at 3:05 PM
  • *

    Don't try to force everyone to believe as they do , leave everyone else alone .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sat, Apr 29, 2017, at 3:05 PM

    Rick,

    Theorist explained that once or twice. They cannot get enough money together to do those socialistic programs they want without forcing everybody to pay through taxation.... well everybody would be those working and paying taxes.

    May have not been her exact words but that is what it boiled down to. You extort money for what you want from taxpayers even if they are opposed to it.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Sat, Apr 29, 2017, at 5:06 PM
  • I don't like things forced on me or shoved down my throat no matter what they are , sort of a rebel or liberal like that , it's called Freedom of choice , Free to do want I want to do and Free to be me .

    If somebody else has a cause they think is worth doing , more power to them , it's their Right , they can do what ever they want to do until it comes to forcing me to do it too . Then we have a problem .

    I know some taxes are needed for roads , the schools , and such . But a tax on top of a tax on top of a tax ? No . If somebody feels this is the way to go , let them pay the way ...

    And somebody forces something down my throat to make money off it too ? No . I go back to the rebel liberal , I'm not doing it .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sat, Apr 29, 2017, at 7:12 PM
  • *

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sat, Apr 29, 2017, at 7:12 PM

    Rick,

    Sorry to say, but that is the way of the modern day Leftist. They like to call themselves Liberals, but they are not the Liberals or Progressives I have know from the past.

    This bunch wants your money for their causes at the point of the government's guns if necessary to make you pay.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Sat, Apr 29, 2017, at 7:19 PM
  • A walker when billed to medicare cost $600, same one on Ebay for $175. Repeated TV ads for near free "pain relieving braces", nebulizers , oxygen concentraters, etc. makes me wonder if cutting medicare could be done without all the cruelty the democrats claim.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Sat, Apr 29, 2017, at 7:54 PM
  • *

    R.W.

    The Swamp will not drain in 8 years, no matter what they do. Too many influential people raping the system.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Sat, Apr 29, 2017, at 8:08 PM
  • *

    Bout time to build an Ark isn't it?

    -- Posted by Karen Jones on Sat, Apr 29, 2017, at 8:17 PM
  • Ralph, I read about a simple concept of a doc and a couple nurse practitioners operating a service where you pay a membership charge and from then on pay a monthly due for office visits for the whole family. They provide a home base for medical records and offer routine blood work and needed standard low cost diagnostic tests and have a network of specialist agreed to show upfront pricing for more complicated testing and recommendation.

    I think there should be a way to get health care out of medical insurance that would get us back to some competition in rates.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Sat, Apr 29, 2017, at 8:30 PM
  • *

    R.W.

    I don't have an answer, but I often wonder how our parents managed with no insurance and close to no money.

    I believe an element of greed slipped in somewhere along the line.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Sat, Apr 29, 2017, at 9:20 PM
  • Not sure I would call it greed but more opportunity and choice to give up financial security in favor of living beyond means. When the government upped it's involvement in wage and price control all started to go downhill. The same wage and price control that prolonged the great depression. Fast forward to the LBJ war on poverty and today and we still have poverty although now government defined in a way to grow the wealth of those claiming to end it.

    Common can blame it all on republicans but IMO the democrats have always been on the wrong side of what's right.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Sat, Apr 29, 2017, at 9:47 PM
  • "...blame it all on republicans..."

    Not quite true, but now that the republicans are in charge, they will surely fix everything. Who was it that said "Only I can fix this!"

    But then again, why didn't Eisenhower fix it, or Nixon, or Reagan, or the Bushes. Maybe it's not quite as simple as "blaming democrats."

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Sun, Apr 30, 2017, at 9:01 AM
  • *

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Sat, Apr 29, 2017, at 9:47 PM

    OJ: LBJ war on poverty just started generations of those on Welfare and other free handouts....why try to improve oneself when the government takes care of you. All you have to do is to keep voting Democratic....don't worry about the National Debt that keeps climbing and climbing.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Sun, Apr 30, 2017, at 9:10 AM
  • -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Sun, Apr 30, 2017, at 9:01 AM

    So you are faulting Republicans for not fixing what Democrats screwed up?

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Sun, Apr 30, 2017, at 10:05 AM
  • *

    So you are faulting Republicans for not fixing what Democrats screwed up?-- Posted by R. W. Bess on Sun, Apr 30, 2017, at 10:05 AM

    OJ: Not enough time or money to fix all of the Democratic screw ups.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Sun, Apr 30, 2017, at 10:11 AM
  • Maybe it's not quite as simple as "blaming democrats." -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Sun, Apr 30, 2017, at 9:01 AM

    Your beloved Obama didn't help. He factually doubled the debt. He factually greatly increased welfare spending for those who CAN work but won't. He factually burdened workers with the largest tax increase in US history without republican support and with 100% democrat support. And then there are these:

    When speaking about $4/gallon gas prices. Obama: " I think that I would have preferred a gradual adjustment."

    On Obamacare: "If you like your current insurance you can keep it. Period." or "If you like your current doctor you can keep them. Period."

    Obama referring to ISIS: "The analogy we use around here sometimes, and I think is accurate, is if a jayvee team puts on Lakers uniforms that doesn’t make them Kobe Bryant."

    Sorry - you can spin all you want. Americans have heard these lies and failed policies by democrats over the past 8 years and have rejected them in the worst political drubbing in US History.

    Go to your coffee shop, sit around a table of like-minded thinkers like yourself and dream about a liberal democrat Utopia run by Barack Obama. And then feel good about your poor choices as your friends pat you on the back and comment how smart you are. If you want to move to a place that only exists in your mind then maybe go to Venezuela where your ideology is 100% in control.

    Or come on this site to get a dose of reality. You and your party have been rejected. Find a safe space.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Sun, Apr 30, 2017, at 10:18 AM
  • Where is it wrote that hospital doctor's must earn exorbitant amount of dollars . Or lab techs . Or Administrators . Why are itemized bills several pages long , each broken down to the most least item such as cotton ball , band aid , a shot the nurse gives , etc ...speaking of which , a cotton ball is $20 bucks for just 1 , a band aid the same . A shot costs $150 bucks and just for the shot , it doesn't include the meds .

    Are People aware Medicaid only covers about 35% of coverage for cancer patients ? Or it did anyway , who pays the other 65 % ??

    In all total , what are the true costs of medical care in the USA ? How much is exorbitant from personal greed , how much is excessive supplies and drugs , and how much is just plain from where nobody can explain ?

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sun, Apr 30, 2017, at 10:41 AM
  • *

    Common: Guess the Crooked Creek is overflowing, hopefully Jer's restaurant is OK.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Sun, Apr 30, 2017, at 10:44 AM
  • One of Trump's first actions after taking office was to sign papers to give the A-Okay to finish the Dakota Pipe Line . All and any orders stopping the Army of Engineers were lifted and the camp of the Peoples blocking the way were removed by force with Federal and State Law Officials . After their camp was cleared , bull dozers leveled the Sacred Lands and the Dakota Pipe Lines were finished with-in a matter of days . No different then the Keystone Pipe Line that snakes through out all the Sacred Lanes .

    So no , I can't honestly say it's all on the Left who try to strong arm the Peoples into things , the Right makes me want to Rebel Liberal too . Once again coal is being removed from the Great Lands of Wyoming with-in sight of the pa-ha sa-pa Devil's Tower , one of the most Sacred Lands . It is the Right who rapes Mother Earth at it's will , it is the Right who brings out the Rebel liberal too .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sun, Apr 30, 2017, at 11:33 AM
  • "...faulting republicans. .."

    I wasn't, but since you brought it up. ..

    Why haven't republicans, since they can supposedly do no wrong, done anything right?

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Sun, Apr 30, 2017, at 12:28 PM
  • Here were go ..what has happened before will happen again

    .................

    U.S. Marines back in Helmand as Afghanistan 'stalemate' continues

    http://www.reuters.com/article/us-afghanistan-marines-idUSKBN17W07L

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sun, Apr 30, 2017, at 12:39 PM
  • *

    Just be honest!! It doesn't matter which letter is behind the daggum names it takes both to make the mess and to also fix things.

    We are so split anymore that nothing can get fixed!

    You have to have people who are mature enough to stop all of the whining and fighting and open-minded enough to work together for the good of the country instead of their personal little special interests to get anything done.

    We just don't have anyone!

    We have a bunch of so called adults who are acting like a bunch of bratty kids that have to have their own way or it is tantrum time!

    How hard is that to figure out! Geez!

    -- Posted by Karen Jones on Sun, Apr 30, 2017, at 2:43 PM
  • *

    Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Sat, Apr 29, 2017, at 9:10 AM

    Wheels,

    Theorist was " enamored" with someone that when we had to post with our real names wasn't who they had presented their self to be. On the other side though I don't think she was who she tried to present herself to be. I think if she reappears she will try to act like she isn't Theorist due to her actions on here. I actually don't think she will be back. That crap of acting offended by the slightest thing and her trying to say she was some kind of upper crust lady with all of these high morals and being shocked by things people said like she had never heard such things before and had never been around anyone who talked and acted certain ways. It was a crock!

    If she reveals herself it would be known that she was lying.

    -- Posted by Karen Jones on Sun, Apr 30, 2017, at 3:11 PM
  • *

    There will be divisions in the USA until the Liberal News Media starts reporting the news and leaving their political views out of it.

    There will be divisions in the USA until the Paid Protesters are no longer being paid.

    There will be divisions in the USA until the Snowflakes accept the fact that Hillary lost and Trump is the President.

    That's my 2 cents worth.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Sun, Apr 30, 2017, at 4:03 PM
  • *

    -- Posted by Karen Jones on Sun, Apr 30, 2017, at 3:11 PM

    Iam,

    I get the idea you think she was a phony.... if so, I agree. Always did think she was putting on an act.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Sun, Apr 30, 2017, at 5:19 PM
  • Karen

    I've said for a while that now is the time to stop being a Democrat and now is the time to stop being a Republican .

    Now is the time to start being an American .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sun, Apr 30, 2017, at 6:05 PM
  • David

    Make all of those things go away so it's impossible for them to ever happen again . And then when something goes wrong , and it will , who gets the blame ?

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sun, Apr 30, 2017, at 6:15 PM
  • *

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sun, Apr 30, 2017, at 6:15 PM

    Rick: The guilty person would be the blame.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Sun, Apr 30, 2017, at 7:15 PM
  • Why haven't republicans, since they can supposedly do no wrong, done anything right?

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Sun, Apr 30, 2017, at 12:28 PM

    There you go again, saying the Republicans have done nothing right when we were discussing the Democrat liberals.

    Been a long time since I've been to Scopus, heard they had a pretty good shooting match out there until someone stirred it up with politics.

    Anyway, I hope the Crooked Creek closure doesn't cut you off from any capitalistic commerce

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Sun, Apr 30, 2017, at 8:02 PM
  • *

    R.W.

    When I was pretty young, I remember hearing bits and pieces that some of the good citizens of Lutesville, now a part of Marble Hill were supposed to have rode a union organizer for the shoe factory out of town on a rail. I was pretty young and nobody told me much but I heard some talk between adults.

    Mr Common should watch his step, he is not exactly in the heart of Democratic Territory there. I still think he built on a secret toxic waste dump and it is affecting his thinking. :-)

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Sun, Apr 30, 2017, at 8:45 PM
  • With the Whitewater swollen, less chance of the dhows coming up. :)

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Sun, Apr 30, 2017, at 9:49 PM
  • David

    If that would only happen now .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sun, Apr 30, 2017, at 10:02 PM
  • Trump guarantees coverage for people with pre-existing conditions in health care bill

    http://www.cbsnews.com/news/trump-guarantees-coverage-for-people-with-pre-existi...

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sun, Apr 30, 2017, at 10:08 PM
  • Washington Protests as Turkish Strikes Target U.S.-Backed Fighters

    Officials say Turkey failed to coordinate airstrikes with U.S., and Kurdish activists denounce them as act of war

    WASHINGTON—Turkish jets launched dozens of airstrikes targeting U.S.-backed fighters in Syria and Iraq on Tuesday, killing at least 30 in attacks that roiled Washington and threatened to undermine plans for an assault on Islamic State’s most important Syrian stronghold.

    https://www.wsj.com/articles/washington-protests-as-turkish-strikes-target-u-s-b...

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sun, Apr 30, 2017, at 10:12 PM
  • *

    With the Whitewater swollen, less chance of the dhows coming up. :)-- Posted by R. W. Bess on Sun, Apr 30, 2017, at 9:49 PM

    OJ: ISIS is just waiting till the flood water recedes then it's on to Scopus and Marble Hill to overrun the land. Good thing there's enough pro-gun folks there to fight them off.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Mon, May 1, 2017, at 7:42 AM
  • ISIS is becoming the WASWAS..

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, May 1, 2017, at 7:52 AM
  • Many , many , many years ago strange men with strange Peoples sailed up the Whitewaters and creeks demanding their different ways and religions . They would kill any and all who wouldn't change to their ways and beliefs .

    Life indeed is a circle , what could happen could happen again .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, May 1, 2017, at 8:21 AM
  • *

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, May 1, 2017, at 7:52 AM

    Rick: Don't count them out till everyone of them is dead. One terrorist can kill countless amount of folks.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Mon, May 1, 2017, at 8:24 AM
  • Yes , and one "thunderstick" that's never been seen before can kill countless amount of Peoples too .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, May 1, 2017, at 8:40 AM
  • "Don't count them out till everyone of them is dead"

    This was said too , but as Chief Red Cloud said , "There are more coming then there are blades of grass on the praries."

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, May 1, 2017, at 8:42 AM
  • I don't like Trump's speech last night about sueing the press for libel . To me , it's a treat against the Press .

    The Constitution guarantees Freedom of the Press .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, May 1, 2017, at 8:45 AM
  • It appears that he's not overly concerned with out "archaic" Constitution, that's "a bad thing for the country."

    "In an interview with Fox News to mark the 100-day mark, he declared himself “disappointed” with congressional Republicans, despite his many “great relationships” with them.

    "He blamed the constitutional checks and balances built in to US governance. “It’s a very rough system,” he said. “It’s an archaic system … It’s really a bad thing for the country.”

    https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2017/apr/29/trump-blames-constitution-for-fi...

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, May 1, 2017, at 9:05 AM
  • Rick Lettau

    I have to take your word about statements on FOX .

    I do not watch .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, May 1, 2017, at 9:10 AM
  • But I agree , I don't care for his attacks on the USA Constitution .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, May 1, 2017, at 9:11 AM
  • *

    You would really hate to see Trump succeed in straightening out Obama's screwups, wouldn't you Mr. Lettau?

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Mon, May 1, 2017, at 9:13 AM
  • "He blamed the constitutional checks and balances built in to US governance. “It’s a very rough system,” he said. “It’s an archaic system … It’s really a bad thing for the country.” -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, May 1, 2017, at 9:05 AM

    Now that is funny. You posting about Trump's concern about the US Constitution when you've been whining about Hillary's huge loss and the electoral college. You know, in the Constitution.

    Precious.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Mon, May 1, 2017, at 9:24 AM
  • *

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, May 1, 2017, at 8:45 AM

    Rick: As long as the press reports the truth there is no need for libel suits. Look what happened to Dan Rather and a few others who did not check the sources for accuracy.

    ***********

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, May 1, 2017, at 9:05 AM

    Common: Obama didn't bend the Constitution did he? Trump is just saying that it's tough to work within the Constitution.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Mon, May 1, 2017, at 10:19 AM
  • Trump was talking about the senate rules, not the constitution.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Mon, May 1, 2017, at 11:25 AM
  • Trump was talking about the senate rules, not the constitution. -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Mon, May 1, 2017, at 11:25 AM

    You'll have to explain more. I'm not sure Mr. Lettau knows the difference.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Mon, May 1, 2017, at 12:33 PM
  • Trump said Andrew Jackson could have prevented the Civil War — but the 7th president has an ugly history

    ..................

    Donald Trump shows no sign of easing up on his praise of Andrew Jackson.

    "I mean, had Andrew Jackson been a little later, you wouldn't have had the Civil War," Trump said. "He was a very tough person, but he had a big heart."

    It's not the first time Trump has praised Jackson. Days after moving into the White House, Trump hung a portrait of the seventh US president in the Oval Office, and in March, he laid a wreath at his tomb in Nashville.

    Like Trump, Jackson promised to shake up elitism in the government, but the noted populist war hero was responsible for ruthless policies toward Native Americans, making his legacy incredibly controversial.

    Even though he promised to rid the US government of elitism, Jackson ended up bringing many of his close friends and political allies into power to pass his desired bills.

    In 1830, he signed the Indian Removal Act, which forced thousands of people from the Cherokee, Muscogee, Seminole, Chickasaw, and Choctaw nations to leave their homes in the southeastern United States and travel west.

    http://www.businessinsider.com/who-was-president-andrew-jackson-history-photos-t...

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, May 1, 2017, at 1:00 PM
  • Rick: As long as the press reports the truth there is no need for libel suits. Look what happened to Dan Rather and a few others who did not check the sources for accuracy.

    ...............

    There will always be People who second guess as what is reported by the Press .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, May 1, 2017, at 1:02 PM
  • Libel , or slander , comes from the person who said it , not from the Press .

    "Don't shoot the messenger"

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, May 1, 2017, at 1:07 PM
  • Andrew Jackson , the Indian Removal Act , and Abraham Lincoln , the Homestead Act , were the only 2 Presidents worse then Barack Obama .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, May 1, 2017, at 1:10 PM
  • “Trump was talking about the senate rules, not the constitution.”

    Possibly not, what President Trump said was “…constitutional checks and balances…” not, the “rules of the Senate.”

    This seems to be his concern, in that he’s not “omnipotent.”

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

    "The Separation of Powers devised by the framers of the Constitution was designed to do one primary thing: to prevent the majority from ruling with an iron fist. Based on their experience, the framers shied away from giving any branch of the new government too much power. The separation of powers provides a system of shared power known as Checks and Balances.

    "Three branches are created in the Constitution. The Legislative, composed of the House and Senate, is set up in Article 1. The Executive, composed of the President, Vice-President, and the Departments, is set up in Article 2. The Judicial, composed of the federal courts and the Supreme Court, is set up in Article 3.

    "Each of these branches has certain powers, and each of these powers is limited, or checked, by another branch.

    For example, the President appoints judges and departmental secretaries. But these appointments must be approved by the Senate. The Congress can pass a law, but the President can veto it. The Supreme Court can rule a law to be unconstitutional, but the Congress, with the States, can amend the Constitution.

    "All of these checks and balances, however, are inefficient. But that's by design rather than by accident. By forcing the various branches to be accountable to the others, no one branch can usurp enough power to become dominant."

    https://www.usconstitution.net/consttop_sepp.html

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, May 1, 2017, at 1:33 PM
  • “…hate to see Trump succeed in straightening out [President] Obama's screwups…”

    Sorry, Mr. VanGennip, but it all depends on what you consider “screw ups.”

    If you’re referring to President Obama’s failure to convince Congress to stabilize Social Security and Medicare by adjusting expenditures and revenue to self-sufficiency, I wouldn’t hate it.

    Or if you’re referring to his failure to convince Congress to reduce the deficit and balance the budget, I wouldn’t hate it.

    Or if consider his inability to implement a single-payer system, as a “screw up,” I wouldn’t hate it.

    There are a lot of things President Trump could do right.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, May 1, 2017, at 1:48 PM
  • "...watch his step, he is not exactly in the heart of Democratic Territory there."

    You mean that the local citizens are not capable of accepting different points of view, or other equally legitimate political persuasions?

    Luckily, they seem not to be a bit overly intimidated.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, May 1, 2017, at 1:57 PM
  • You mean that the local citizens are not capable of accepting different points of view, or other equally legitimate political persuasions? -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, May 1, 2017, at 1:57 PM

    Listen to them? Sure. Accept them? I hope not.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Mon, May 1, 2017, at 4:30 PM
  • -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, May 1, 2017, at 1:48 PM

    The "Do nothing Congress" ?

    Wow , how quick it turns into the "No nothing President" Which shall it be , a matter of convience , which is available to meet the Obama Agenda . Really picking at scabs here , no ?

    Trump meant the USA Constitution and it's components .

    Perhaps the whole of the USA Government People are wrong , not the Constitution , this would be the answer , it's what is suppressing and oppressing the Peoples .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, May 1, 2017, at 5:24 PM
  • Doug

    Return the Rights to Individual States and get rid of the Federal State would be a start .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, May 1, 2017, at 5:27 PM
  • Getting rid of the (D) and the (R) tattoos would be one hell of a good start .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, May 1, 2017, at 5:30 PM
  • There are a lot of things President Trump could do right.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, May 1, 2017, at 1:48 PM

    Like continue the progressive movement to a all powerful central government of elitist socialism?

    That all encompassing single payer system would be a start. Everyone who wants something gets it at the expense of those that have it by earning it.

    Just put all the confiscated tax money in one big federal piggy bank and give the keys to those seeking the power to dictate who gets it.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Mon, May 1, 2017, at 6:40 PM
  • *

    Luckily, they seem not to be a bit overly intimidated.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, May 1, 2017, at 1:57 PM

    Common,

    I grew up in Bollinger County. To even think one person out of a hundred would be intimidated by you is ludicrous.

    You think highly of yourself, that is painfully evident. Ever notice how few on here share your enthusiasm for yourself?

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Mon, May 1, 2017, at 7:25 PM
  • Ralph, Was it Bowl-ing-ger or Bull-ing-ger or Bah-ling-jer back then?

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Mon, May 1, 2017, at 7:58 PM
  • Obama promised a fundamental change to America . And now Trump is making waves about the USA Constitution itself .

    I see the Obama People aren't so happy with those fundamental changes right now...

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, May 1, 2017, at 8:38 PM
  • Shhh, it's May Day, the communists over there and the something for nothings back here are celebrating.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Mon, May 1, 2017, at 8:52 PM
  • *

    Bull-ing-ger, R.W..... Bull-ing-ger!

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Mon, May 1, 2017, at 8:58 PM
  • Trump Takes Aim at School Lunch Guidelines and a Girls’ Education Program

    WASHINGTON — The Trump administration took aim Monday at two signature programs of the former first lady Michelle Obama, rolling back her efforts to promote healthy school lunches nationwide and potentially rebranding her program to educate adolescent girls abroad.

    Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue announced that school meals would no longer have to meet some requirements connected with Mrs. Obama’s initiative to combat childhood obesity by overhauling the nation’s school menus.

    https://www.nytimes.com/2017/05/01/us/politics/nutrition-rules-school-lunches-mi...

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 5:57 AM
  • "...would be intimidated by you is ludicrous."

    Me, personally was not mentioned and not the issue. I said the people I know are not intimidated by differing points of view, nor by opposing political parties.

    "...how few on here share your enthusiasm for yourself?"

    Why would that make any difference to me? I would not expect many of the participants on SO have "enthusiasm" anything closely related to reality on the political front.

    That Mr. VanGennip thinks highly of Mr. VanGennip, is painfully evident.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 6:16 AM
  • “…[President] Obama promised a fundamental change to America.”

    What he really said was…

    “…we are five days away from fundamentally transforming the United States of America.

    "In five days, you can turn the page on policies that put greed and irresponsibility on Wall Street before the hard work and sacrifice of folks on Main Street. In five days, you can choose policies that invest in our middle class, and create new jobs, and grow this economy, so that everyone has a chance to succeed, not just the CEO, but the secretary and janitor, not just the factory owner, but the men and women on the factory floor."

    http://www.politifact.com/truth-o-meter/article/2014/feb/06/what-barack-obama-ha...

    Hopefully the republican administration will continue this effort.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 6:29 AM
  • we are five days away from fundamentally transforming the United States of America.

    ..........

    Exactly . And it has happened . The sad part , those who support him so dearly can not see the negative effects of this change on the Peoples . One of the most glaring would be Donald J. Trump . The list is long and the list is sad .

    The Blind refuse to see .

    "Listen to the wind , it talks . Listen to the silence , it speaks . Listen to your heart , it knows ."

    ~~ Lakota

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 6:47 AM
  • "The list is long and the list is sad."

    Well, let's see...

    It's not the stock market, that tripled since 2009.

    It's not unemployment, that went from about 10% to under 5%.

    It's not Al-Qaeda, Osama bin Laden was taken out exactly 6 years and 1 day ago.

    It's not ISIS, they have lost almost all of their cities, the majority of experienced leaders, and had about 50,000 members killed in Iraq and Syria.

    It's not even race relations, since racial incidents this century "pale" when compared to several hundreds in the last half of the 20th Century.

    It's not the economy, since it has been growing for 8 years.

    What is it on your "sad" list?

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 7:22 AM
  • "you can turn the page on policies that put greed and irresponsibility on Wall Street before the hard work and sacrifice of folks on Main Street"

    The other was the one set to cash a $400,000 check from Wall Street — the same amount as his yearly salary during his time in the White House — when he delivers a speech in September at a health care conference run by Cantor Fitzgerald, a trading and investment firm.

    On Wednesday, Mr. Obama’s spokesman defended the former president’s coming speech, saying Mr. Obama decided to give it because health care changes were important to him. The spokesman, Eric Schultz, noted that Cantor Fitzgerald is a Wall Street firm but pointed out in a statement that as a presidential candidate, Mr. Obama raised money from Wall Street and went on to aggressively regulate it.

    https://www.nytimes.com/2017/04/26/us/po...

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 7:25 AM
  • Rick Lettau

    1.) Racial division and social unrest as not seen since the 1960's

    2.) Division of American Society , it's Red or Blue now

    3.) Exception to the Rule became Law

    4.) Special Interest Groups became paramount

    5.) The fall of America power world wide

    6.) Inability to work with Congress , any good Leader can work with anyone

    7.) Operation Fast and Furious

    8.) Excessive Government control through Executive Orders

    9.) The demise of the Democratic Party

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 7:41 AM
  • Obamacare ...which he now takes money for it's creation

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 7:42 AM
  • "...and went on to aggressively regulate it."

    and President Trump is working to reverse those controls...

    “President Donald Trump signed an executive order Friday instructing his administration to start rolling back Dodd-Frank's banking regulations. This was not a surprise. Republicans have hated the financial reform law, which was passed in 2010 in the wake of the housing bust and Wall Street’s meltdown, from the moment it was signed.1 Trump spent a whole campaign saying he'd dismantle the legislation. Now the president is following through.

    “And as usual, Trump’s rhetorical justification is both hilarious and transparently divorced from reality. “We expect to be cutting a lot out of Dodd-Frank because, frankly, I have so many people, friends of mine, who have nice businesses who can’t borrow money. They just can’t get any money because the banks just won’t let them borrow, because of the rules and regulations in Dodd-Frank,” Trump said at a Friday morning meeting with CEOs.”

    http://www.slate.com/blogs/moneybox/2017/02/03/donald_trump_s_excuse_for_gutting...

    Our former President is a private citizen, so what is the problem?

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 7:47 AM
  • *

    Obamacare will fade into history as a failed and costly attempt to give yet more free money to the Blood Sucking Freeloaders in the way of subsidizes paid for by the tax payers.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 7:50 AM
  • *

    As a footnote in history will be the following: Barack Hussein Obama,first black or mostly black President of the USA whose accomplishments were very very few and ranked among the 3 worst Presidents of all time - Carter, Nixon being the other two.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 7:55 AM
  • 1.) Racial division insignificant compared to the 1960's

    2.) Division of American Society is a function of politicians, not people.

    3.) Exception to the Rule became Law (what does that mean?)

    4.) Special Interest Groups have always been paramount.

    5.) The fall of America power world wide is a republican fiction. Check Trumps praise of our powerful military.

    6.) Inability to work with Congress , if President Obama is for it, we must be against it, and progress was made anyhow.

    7.) Operation Fast and Furious, successor to Operation Wide Receiver.

    8.) Government control through Executive Orders due to Congressional inactivity.

    9.) The demise of the Democratic Party is a pendulum swing.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 7:58 AM
  • *

    Our former President is a private citizen, so what is the problem?-- Posted by Rick Lettau on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 7:47 AM

    Common: Amen to Obama being a private citizen. What's wrong with Obama taking $400,000 for a one hour speech - if you don't know then there is no hope for you.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 8:03 AM
  • *

    Private citizen or not, this article points out what is wrong with 'selling the Presidency' once the term is completed, or sometimes before the term is completed.

    https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=http://mobile.nytimes.com/2...

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 8:32 AM
  • Our former President is a private citizen, so what is the problem?-- Posted by Rick Lettau on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 7:47 AM

    He is earning income off of Laws he initiated and passed as an elected official , or , he is stealing tax payer money .

    The man promoted and succeeded in more Governing controls and oppression on the American citizens , citizens lost their Independent Freedoms . Proof of this would be the rejection of his actions with the election loss of anyone , no matter who , in the 2016 elections . The American public tire of his heavy hand on the Peoples . The American public rejected his inept and unqualified actions as President and the direction he was taking the Nation .

    His domestic and foreign actions were unacceptable , his ability to Lead and his fundamental change were rejected by the majority of the States , enough was enough .

    Sadly , it is too late , his Laws , Executive Orders , and heavy hand against Individual freedoms have already been solified for years to come .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 8:34 AM
  • -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, May 1, 2017, at 1:48 PM

    Of course you have a litany of weak excuses , I expect no less .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 8:35 AM
  • *

    He is earning income off of Laws he initiated and passed as an elected official , or , he is stealing tax payer money.-- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 8:34 AM

    Common: Take notes from your fellow posters and you might learn something.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 8:38 AM
  • -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 7:47 AM

    So you admit his actions were unacceptable and it takes the next President to try and undo his knots . But expect the next President to be the blame of all the knots .

    The would be no problems to fix if not for Obama .

    Do you not see the problem you're talking about , you can't have it both ways .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 8:42 AM
  • It does not require many words to speak the truth.

    ~~- Chief Joseph , Nez Perce

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 8:55 AM
  • 9.) The demise of the Democratic Party is a pendulum swing. -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 7:58 AM

    The decline in your liberal ideology and your party broke the clock. Never in US history has such a decline occurred. I believe you're back to civil war days. And your point about race problems in the 1960's when democrats ruled the south?

    Better get your talking points list straight next time. You're looking bad here.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 9:21 AM
  • It's better not to speak and be thought a fool then to speak and remove all doubt .

    ~~ Mark Twain

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 9:23 AM
  • Congress has passed a $1.1 TRILLION spending authorization.

    Let's see if Mr. Lettau pays attention and learns that it will require the PRESIDENT'S signature to become law and for spending to go forward.

    Or maybe he still thinks only Congress controls/approves spending? A great, live-action civics lesson for you.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 10:27 AM
  • "...that it will require the PRESIDENT'S signature..."

    Why would you have any question as to the require for him to sign. That's what I told you last week.

    "Poor Mr. Williams, he must not be aware that the President can sign it or not sign it, but he can't change it.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 9:51 AM"

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 2:58 PM
  • "It does not require many words to speak the truth."

    ~~- Chief Joseph , Nez Perce

    I agree. Few enough?

    President Obama will long be remembered as a very good President and the first black one.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 3:02 PM
  • "So you admit his actions were unacceptable..."

    Not in the least. What was admitted?

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 3:04 PM
  • "The would be no problems to fix if not for [President] Obama."

    You mean the Bush recession, losing jobs, negative economic growth, immersed in two wars, OSB on the loose.

    No problems at all. Where were you from 2000 to 2008?

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 3:07 PM
  • "Take notes from your fellow posters and you might learn something."

    Pardon me while I ROTFL.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 3:09 PM
  • "...he is stealing tax payer money."

    Come on! He's being paid by corporations. If you want to make a point of corporations stealing money from tax loopholes, you may have a better point.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 3:14 PM
  • "The man promoted and succeeded in more Governing controls and oppression on the American citizens , citizens lost their Independent Freedoms . Proof of this would be the rejection of his actions with the election loss of anyone , no matter who , in the 2016 elections . The American public tire of his heavy hand on the Peoples."

    Sorry again, but no one will learn anything from this fictional rant.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 3:21 PM
  • This insistence that the President, not Congress, has final budgetary authority is getting more than a bit humorous. -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 11:52 AM

    Look who changed his point when he was proven wrong:

    Poor Mr. Williams, he must not be aware that the President can sign it or not sign it, but he can't change it. -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Thu, Apr 27, 2017, at 9:51 AM

    Looks like you were wrong on who has the FINAL BUDGETARY AUTHORITY. And when proven so you put up another straw man - you did it all the time when you're so wrong.

    ===

    Now - holding your to your statement - have you learned today that the PRESIDENT "has final budgetary authority"? Because he does. Such low info is expected from liberal democrats like yourself. You're not learning a thing from your party spankings since 2010 are you?

    PLEASE keep it up.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 3:22 PM
  • “…points out what is wrong with 'selling the Presidency' once the term is completed..”

    From your link…

    “Ronald Reagan accepted $2 million to deliver two 20- minute speeches in Japan shortly after leaving the White House in 1989…”

    Looks like President Obama is not doing nearly as well as others. But looking at it more realistically, the value of President Obama’s presentation has nothing to do with his Presidency, but rather it may be his ability to speculate on possible outcomes of the Trump imbroglio.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 3:30 PM
  • "...who has the FINAL BUDGETARY AUTHORITY."

    Thanks for the caps, pointing out that Congress has "...has the FINAL BUDGETARY AUTHORITY."

    As usual, you're ducking the facts, in the final step, the president signs or doesn't sign, or vetos it.

    Since he can't change it has has no "FINAL BUDGETARY AUTHORITY."

    or look it at this way...

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

    If Omar were around today he may have writ…

    “The Moving Finger [of Congress] writes; and, having writ,

    Moves on [to send it to the President]: nor all thy Piety nor Wit [of President Trump]

    Shall lure it back to cancel half a Line [unless he vetos it and send it back to Congress who can override his veto]

    Nor all [the President’s] Tears wash out a Word of it, [meaning Congress has the final word.]

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 3:43 PM
  • *

    "President Obama will long be remembered as a very good President and the first black one."

    Wrong on both counts. HAlf black Commie. And don't give me that 1 drop of blood nonsense. You could call him white then, if that were true. He is,a zero on all counts.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 3:53 PM
  • Looks like President Obama is not doing nearly as well as others. -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 3:30 PM

    Another straw man - are yout arguments so weak you have to constantly fight with yourself?

    NO ONE I know slights Obama for making $400,000 in speeches. Or Reagan. Or Clinton. Except for this fact that you would like people to ignore - your Messiah Barack Obama constantly trashed people for their wealth and income. Specifically those on Wall Street. Reagan never did that. But Obama did.

    And now he's taking Wall Street big money and getting wealthy from "fat cats".

    It makes you look like the sucker you are. You bought all his "Spread the wealth" and "fat cat" lies and guess what? He's a fat cat himself.

    Just more hypocrisy from the left. Nothing new here.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 4:16 PM
  • "HALF black..."

    I'd suggest that you're more than a but out of touch with Americans and reality.

    If a vast majority of black Americans consider President Obama black, not "half black," who are you to say they're wrong. Your opinion may be revered by the few on here, meaningless to the majority of Americans.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 4:34 PM
  • *

    Commie, I speak the truth, he is what he is, a half breed. Like it or not, matters not a bit what others think.

    .

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 5:53 PM
  • *

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 3:30 PM

    Commie, I don't think any of them were correct in capitalizing on the Presidency. It cheapens the office. If it were not for the office Obama would have a hard time getting $400 for reading a speech. He cannot stand up and do it without his teleprompters.

    Who was correct in his assessment of the sacredness of the office.... Truman or Obama?

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 5:54 PM
  • Hillary has now declared herself a private citizen and part of the resistance, That after blaming everyone else for her loss. Mr lettau thinks Omar was one of the founders. I can see they both are suffering. Now it's a swing of a pendulum but not that long ago it was the predicted demise of the Republican party by their own doing.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 6:55 PM
  • *

    "Take notes from your fellow posters and you might learn something."

    Pardon me while I ROTFL.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 3:09 PM

    Common: Glad to have helped you. Now pay attention.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 7:13 PM
  • *

    Hillary has now declared herself a private citizen and part of the resistance, That after blaming everyone else for her loss. -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 6:55 PM

    OJ: Poor Hillary, Judicial Watch is on your trail and hopefully the FBI & DOJ is also.

    http://www.faithfamilyamerica.com/hillary_just_hit_with_more_devastating_news_as...

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 7:19 PM
  • David, I think they leaked stuff to hurt Trump and it backfired. I also Think Obama had his part in it, as he still does. The community organizer will wear gloves and let his useful idiots be there to blame if anything comes back his way.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 7:34 PM
  • "Who was correct in his assessment of the sacredness of the office.... Truman or Obama?"

    Based on the intervening 65 years society has changed to a degree that a “sacredness of office” comparison becomes inconclusive. There is so much difference in the political environment alone that any assessment suggests that both have the same degree of respect for the office.

    To look at it simplistically, it’s easy to conclude that it must be Truman because he took the train home and stayed there. The situation today has no relation to 1953. Another factor is the age of the former Presidents, there being no reason for them to "put themselves out to pasture."

    Do you consider writing a memoir (which Truman did too) on a Presidency to be “capitalizing?” Is operating a “Presidential Library” a form of “capitalizing?” If so, President Truman has a very nice one. Is being invited to give speeches alone “capitalizing” or does it solely depend on being paid?

    In any case, if you’re truly concerned about “sacredness” of, or “respect” for, the office of President, it would be best not to pay much attention to our current President.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 9:16 PM
  • "Hillary has now declared herself a private citizen..."

    I would suggest that becoming a private citizen was automatic, but the rest of the claims are absurd.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 9:28 PM
  • “I speak the truth…”.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 5:53 PM

    “He is, a zero on all counts.”

    That statement is not true, which contradicts your claim to “speak the truth.”

    That may be your opinion, but just your thinking something to be true, does not make it a fact. Every poll taken gives him a 50% plus approval rating, so the majority of Americans say he is not "a zero."

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 9:32 PM
  • "...leaked stuff to hurt Trump..."

    That's totally unnecessary. He is perfectly capabile of "hurting" himself.

    Like this...

    "He made the puzzling claim that Jackson “was really angry that he saw what was happening in regard to the Civil War.” But Jackson died in 1845, and the Civil War didn't begin until 16 years later, in 1861.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 9:37 PM
  • *

    A couple of things Commie.

    I am 100% against Pay for Play when it comes to the Presidency either while in office or retired from it.

    I was never a Truman fan but I respect him and find more things to like about him as time goes on. The exact opposite can be said for the current day Presidents... with Obama being the worst of the lot. He is pond scum.

    You say times have changed. No kidding, but an honest man retains his integrity no matter the rest of the world. There are a few left, but they sure as hell aren't in politics.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 9:38 PM
  • Every poll taken gives him a 50% plus approval rating, so the majority of Americans say he is not "a zero." -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 9:32 PM

    The same polls you quoted in the past that predicted Hillary in a landslide?

    That's some reliable data you have there. LOL!

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 9:42 PM
  • "...with Obama being the worst of the lot."

    That's more personal opinion...

    "...find more things to like about him as time goes on."

    That's in reference to Truman, but it will also come true for Obama "skeptics."

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 9:49 PM
  • That's in reference to Truman, but it will also come true for Obama "skeptics."

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 9:49 PM

    That's more personal opinion...

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 9:59 PM
  • "...find more things to like about him as time goes on." That's in reference to Truman, but it will also come true for Obama "skeptics." -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 9:49 PM

    No matter how long "time goes on"

    -I will never "like" Obama's $137 BILLION in student loan "forgiveness" at the expense of senior citizens and social security

    -I will never "like" Obama's doubling of the US debt.

    -I will never "like" Obama's racist attitude and stirring up racial tension and cop killing.

    -I will never "like" Obama's largest tax increase in US History.

    Time doesn't matter Common. As Wheels said, "an honest man retains his integrity no matter the rest of the world". Obama was not and is not now an honest man of integrity.

    And he's your hero?

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 10:02 PM
  • The local police became the criminal during the Obama Administration , it became a Federal Police State

    Parents weren't allowed to decide what their children could eat for lunch , it became a Federal mandated Lunch Program

    People could no longer decide if , or which , commerce they decided to purchase during the Obama Administration , it became a Federal mandatory on what they will buy

    People were not longer allowed the privacy of using the restroom during the Obama Administration

    People were no longer allowed Free Trade during the Obama Administration

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 10:05 PM
  • Freedoms and personal Rights were removed and taken away during the Obama Administration , Government oppression and control were the objective .

    Millions supported this , millions gave away their Freedoms .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Tue, May 2, 2017, at 10:07 PM
  • Donald Trump "I don't stand by anything"

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5zFhYoBlZ2g

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Wed, May 3, 2017, at 6:49 AM
  • Looks like more debt to me...thnx ..Donald..

    ...................

    Government-wide spending bill headed for a House vote

    WASHINGTON (AP) - A government-wide spending bill that President Donald Trump seemed to criticize Tuesday morning but now calls "a clear win for the American people" is headed for a House vote.

    The House is scheduled to vote on the bipartisan $1.1 trillion measure Wednesday afternoon. It is a product of weeks of Capitol Hill negotiations in which top Democrats like House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi successfully blocked Trump's most controversial proposals, including a down payment on the oft-promised Trump Mexico border wall, cuts to popular domestic programs, and new punishments for so-called sanctuary cities.

    http://www.kfvs12.com/story/35326521/government-wide-spending-bill-headed-for-a-...

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Wed, May 3, 2017, at 7:26 AM
  • *

    Cutting out the free stuff for the Blood Sucking Freeloaders would go a long way to bring the Federal Budget into check.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Wed, May 3, 2017, at 8:15 AM
  • Go back to Commodities instead of Entitlements .

    All able bodied Entitlement recipients work on infrastructure and/or cleaning up their communities 20 hours per week and require productive training to the work force 20 hours per week .

    No tax breaks to any business who doesn't participate in 20 hours per week productive training to the work force of able bodied Entitlement recipients .

    Vote American .

    Cut Politician pay and benefit in half yearly until debt is under control . Public votes on Politician pay instead of Politicians .

    Force Washington DC to become a State , go back to Individual State's Rights instead of the Federal State .

    Cut Foreign Aide by 75% .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Wed, May 3, 2017, at 8:47 AM
  • ...and stop trying to dis-arm the citizens of the United States of America , there are worse problems to fix..a lot worse...damm

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Wed, May 3, 2017, at 8:55 AM
  • Left another one of Common's "greatest Obama achievements" off my list. In the news today. The Iranians themselves are bragging how Obama's 150+ BILLION giveaway is funding their military buildup to make them an offensive force. Obama's agreement is also allowing them to buy Russian military supplies since Obama also gave them the green light on that.

    This man's legacy will only get worse as the lies and hidden material will eventually surface.

    ===

    "Iran is using the billions in cash resources provided under the landmark nuclear deal to engage in an unprecedented military buildup meant to transform the Islamic Republic's fighting force into an "offensive" juggernaut, according to a largely unreported announcement by Iranian military leaders that has sparked concern among U.S. national security insiders and sources on Capitol Hill.

    Iranian officials announced late last month that Iran's defense budget had increased by 145 percent under President Hassan Rouhani and that the military is moving forward with a massive restructuring effort aimed at making it "a forward moving force," according to regional reports.

    Iranian leaders have stated since the Iran deal was enacted that they are using the massive amounts of cash released under the agreement to fund the purchase of new military equipment and other armaments. Iran also has pursued multi-million dollar arms deals with Russia since economic sanctions were nixed as part of the deal."

    ===

    Thank you president Obama for weakening the US. Some of your supporters love you for it.

    Not me.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Wed, May 3, 2017, at 9:11 AM
  • The Scopus Sage was on a roll last night, must be researching all the resistance sites for more rhetoric to use today.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Wed, May 3, 2017, at 10:12 AM
  • One of the things that becomes obvious when participating on SO, is that frequently isolated incidents become or are interpreted as if they were pervasive, nation-wide challenges or perils.

    For example…

    “The local police became the criminal during the Obama Administration , it became a Federal Police State.”

    There is no truth to that all. The local police are not “criminal.” There are some criminals that have been members or part of police forces, but they have always been limited to a tiny minority.

    The country becoming a “Federal Police State” is not true. There are some jurisdictions, notably Ferguson and Baltimore, that have received levels of control and assistance from the Department of Justice, but that does not make the remaining 99.99% of the nation is a “Federal Police State.”

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

    “Parents weren't allowed to decide what their children could eat for lunch, it became a Federal mandated Lunch Program.”

    My guess is that the vast majority of responsible parents are totally satisfied with the school lunch programs. Exceptions can always be handled on an individual basis. There is no such thing as a “Federal mandated Lunch Program.” There are food safety and nutritional standards, as there should be.

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

    “People could no longer decide if, or which, commerce they decided to purchase during the Obama Administration, it became a Federal mandatory on what they will buy.”

    The majority of Americans are not “mandated” because they already have insurance from employers or Medicare/Medicaid. Again it’s an “anthill” being depicted as a “mountain.”

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

    “People were not longer allowed the privacy of using the restroom during the Obama Administration.”

    North Carolina republicans tried to impose their will on Americans, and we ignored them. People will continue to use the restroom that matches their outward appearance.

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

    “People were no longer allowed Free Trade during the Obama Administration.”

    Just by seeing the fully stocked shelves in Schnucks, Walmarts, the malls, I say free trade is alive and well.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Wed, May 3, 2017, at 10:19 AM
  • *

    The Scopus Sage was on a roll last night, must be researching all the resistance sites for more rhetoric to use today.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Wed, May 3, 2017, at 10:12 AM

    OJ: Now that Hillary has joined the resistance, "Common" must be on the Hillary DNC website taking notes for his talking points later today.

    ******

    The Snowflakes still haven't gotten over the fact that their leader Hillary lost the election fair and square.

    ******

    Note to Wall Street fat cats: I'm still available at a small cost $200 an hour to speak at any of your get togethers, just send round trip plane tickets along with a 50% deposit in care of the Southeast Missourian newspaper.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Wed, May 3, 2017, at 10:27 AM
  • My guess is that the vast majority of responsible parents are totally satisfied with the school lunch programs.-- Posted by Rick Lettau on Wed, May 3, 2017, at 10:19 AM

    If ever there was evidence of how out-of-touch you are it's right there.

    The Michelle Obama "I can eat cheeseburgers but you can't" lunch program is a disaster for the schools and the kids. And parents hate its federally mandated overreach.

    Get your head out of that hole in the sand.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Wed, May 3, 2017, at 10:38 AM
  • *

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Wed, May 3, 2017, at 10:19 AM

    Common: You might want to post who you are quoting in your comments....

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Wed, May 3, 2017, at 10:55 AM
  • Shouldn't be too hard to find. It was Mr. Scaggs from last night.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Wed, May 3, 2017, at 11:10 AM
  • *

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Wed, May 3, 2017, at 11:10 AM

    Common: Thanks, saves lots of looking when it's and old comment from which you are posting about.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Wed, May 3, 2017, at 11:14 AM
  • I would think a rule or restriction by a federal agency is the same as a federal mandate since it was not a law voted on and passed by the congress and signed by the president. Thus IMO there is a “Federal mandated Lunch Program”.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Wed, May 3, 2017, at 11:34 AM
  • "...the resistance sites for more rhetoric to use today."

    It's not the "rhetoric" it's the accurate content that matters. And I don't know what "resistance sites" are.

    As always, I'm more than willing to contribute to the continuing education of SO conservatives and friends.

    For example, take this false claim...

    "...how [President] Obama's 150+ BILLION giveaway is funding their military buildup..."

    Actually, it has always been Iranian money, not US taxpayers money.

    Some of the money, about $17 billion is going to Boeing which can create about 100,000 American jobs.

    Much of the money was from Iranian assets frozen in other countries.

    You're welcome.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Wed, May 3, 2017, at 12:28 PM
  • *

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Wed, May 3, 2017, at 11:34 AM

    Yes OJ, and done pretty much by a party elected to nothing. Presidents wives need to be just that, Presidents wives. They are elected to nothing and have no more authority than any other citizen, short of browbeating their husbands into something.

    We are living in the age of Executive Orders which should be a no, except for very limited circumstances. For some reason there seems to be a thought afloat that the President can do as he pleases.

    Cancel all Executive Orders back to George Washington and reinstitute the use of our Constitution

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Wed, May 3, 2017, at 12:33 PM
  • Actually, it has always been Iranian money, not US taxpayers money.-- Posted by Rick Lettau on Wed, May 3, 2017, at 12:28 PM

    Actually they confiscated US assets and held Americans hostage. That was the price they were forced to pay a long time before their nuclear progress under Obama. And they paid that price until your "college loan forgiver" and "pay-to-play with Iran" president gave them our taxpayer money.

    And as for the amount, here is a statement from the Obama administration - they make you look bad again:

    "Miscalculation: Iran Gets Twice As Much In Sanctions Relief, State Department Blames Treasury Department"

    "Iran is now claiming they’ve gained access to $100 billion in frozen assets. What accounts for the difference? According to Marie Harf, senior advisor for strategic communications to Secretary of State John Kerry, the Treasury Department’s bad math is to blame."

    ===

    They can't even calculate by 50% what is going on. And you bought it all.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Wed, May 3, 2017, at 1:11 PM
  • During the Obama Administration a Red Line threat was made against Syria not to use chemical weapons again on civilians . This threat was handed over to Russia who is now an ally of Syria . The chemical weapons continue against civilians .

    During the Obama Administration a Red Line threat was made against North Korea to stop it's missile and nuke developement . The North Korean program continues .

    During the Obama Administration a Red Line threat was made against the Ukraine after Russia annexed Crimea . Russian jets buzzed USA Naval fleets continually in the Black Sea and the Ukraine conflict continues .

    During the Obama Administration the decade old Lethal Arms Embargo against Vietnam was lifted during the Memorial Day week end .

    During the Obama Administration a nuke deal with Iran was signed . Billions of dollars were given to Iran after the deal which Iran is using to arm itself as ally with Russia to enforce the Syrian regime which uses chemical weapons .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Wed, May 3, 2017, at 4:36 PM
  • During the Obama Administration killing of Bin Laden but al Qaeda is still alive and well .

    During the Obama Administration growth of ISIL or ISIS .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Wed, May 3, 2017, at 5:07 PM
  • During the Obama Administration no access for Barack Obama to get off of Air Force One in China at a World Summit .

    Barack Obama is the worst President in the history of the United States of America .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Wed, May 3, 2017, at 5:10 PM
  • What is perplexing and surprising is your ability to present events or issues so as only you can interpret them as being a world shattering calamity

    “…the Obama Administration Red Line…”

    …ended up with the Russians confiscating over 1300 tons of chemicals and turning them over to the US Navy. Had he launched a few missiles nothing similar would necessarily have happened.

    The fact that a quantity of sarin was apparently hidden from the Russian (or they didn’t care) is irrelevant to the red line. After the Tomahawk missiles were sent, the Russians put all of Assad’s chemical weapons under their protection and none were destroyed.

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

    “During the Obama Administration a Red Line threat was made against North Korea to stop its missile and nuke development . The North Korean program continues .”

    It will take more than your fantasizing to make that statement believable in any form. Where is the proof that supports your absurd claim?

    The Chinese have all along been painfully aware that they would eventually have to step in. The fact that any unprovoked and unjustified attack by the US military on North Korea would almost certainly result in a massive artillery response on Seoul makes it foolish for us to consider the types of “threats” that president Trump rants about.

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

    “During the Obama Administration a Red Line threat was made against the Ukraine after Russia annexed Crimea.”

    It will take more than your fantasizing to make that statement believable in any form. Where is the proof that supports your absurd claim?

    The population of Crimea is about 2/3 Russian and it is their only warm water military port and home to their Black Sea Fleet. The USSR relinquished the land to the Ukrainian Soviet Socialist Republic in 1954 because they were close allies. The movement of Ukraine toward the west after 1992 likely caused the Russians to have second thoughts. The smoldering Ukrainian civil war didn’t help.

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

    “Russian jets buzzed USA Naval fleets continually in the Black Sea and the Ukraine conflict continues .”

    And that’s no different than a field mouse nipping on the paw of a tiger, totally meaningless to the military balance which favors the US by a huge margin.

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

    “During the Obama Administration the decade old Lethal Arms Embargo against Vietnam was lifted during the Memorial Day week end .”

    That is not an issue today, in fact Vietnam is more allied to us that to China. The weapons are for Vietnamese defense against China.

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

    “During the Obama Administration a nuke deal with Iran was signed….”

    …that prevents their acquiring weapons now and they remain as part of the nuclear non-proliferation treaty, which if they break world-wide sanctions will be re-imposed.

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

    “Billions of dollars were given to Iran after the deal…”

    …part of which Iran is using to buy US airliners. As you know, it’s their money.

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

    “During the Obama Administration killing of Bin Laden, but al Qaeda is still alive and well.”

    In greatly reduced numbers and capabilities. Any group can call itself al Qaeda, or anything it wants.

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

    “During the Obama Administration growth of ISIL or ISIS...”

    Was halted and they are losing leaders, members and territory. Why is that bad?

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

    “During the Obama Administration no access for Barack Obama to get off of Air Force One in China at a World Summit.”

    Wow, bfd.

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

    “Barack Obama is the worst President in the history of the United States of America.” Posted by Rick Scaggs

    I’d be willing to wager anything that you will never see a legitimate list claiming that. Want to bet $1000 that it will never happen in the next year? Didn’t think so.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Wed, May 3, 2017, at 6:21 PM
  • Good thing I had some spare time before class tonight. Thanks.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Wed, May 3, 2017, at 6:21 PM
  • Should Comey be allowed to keep digging his way into a hole?

    I think Hillary and the hot dog guy and his wife and co-conspirators should all be prosecuted and get it over with. Martha Stewart could cate a press club dinner during the trial while Mr sloppy keeps busy stuffing classified files into his socks.

    It so obvious what is going on, all the while our esteemed expert doesn't know what is implied when I mention resistance sites.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Wed, May 3, 2017, at 6:52 PM
  • -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Wed, May 3, 2017, at 6:21 PM

    What is perplexing but not surprising is your ability to support the worst President in the history of the United States of America . Such lame and remarkable attempts to skew history .

    Save your $1000 and donate it to any Obama Foundation of your choice , it's what the Blind Faith are mandated to do .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Wed, May 3, 2017, at 7:00 PM
  • Want to bet $1000 that it will never happen in the next year? Didn’t think so.-- Posted by Rick Lettau on Wed, May 3, 2017, at 6:21 PM

    Who would take a bet from someone whose word isn't worth anything? Not me.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Wed, May 3, 2017, at 7:01 PM
  • R. W. Bess

    Comey , John Dean de'ja vu .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Wed, May 3, 2017, at 7:21 PM
  • Good thing I had some spare time before class tonight. Thanks.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Wed, May 3, 2017, at 6:21 PM

    I think it takes more time than that for class. You might want to schedule that achievement down the road a little farther. :)

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Wed, May 3, 2017, at 7:22 PM
  • *

    Good thing I had some spare time before class tonight. Thanks.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Wed, May 3, 2017, at 6:21 PM

    Common: Stay after class and clean the chalk board/white board and dump the waste baskets.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Wed, May 3, 2017, at 8:16 PM
  • Apparently some would have no problem with Obama being President for life .

    ..............

    ..............

    The longer Trump is President , the more he starts to remind me of a faux pas Dictator .

    He continually sends out daily objectives and directives for the Peoples using the social media . Syria used chemical weapons so he used a great show of USA missiles -- chemical weapons are still being used , but his daily objectives and directives continue . The MOAB was dropped on Afghanistan as warnings , terrorist attacks happen in Hemland and Kabul shortly after and now USA Marines are being deployed , but his daily objectives and directives continue . He sends an armada of USA Naval ships to North Korea and North Korea gives him the finger but his daily objectives and directives continue . Another $1.1 trillion has been added to the debt and it's a great win for the American Peoples per his daily objectives and directives .

    He surrounds himself with his own family as staff in the White House .

    Does the USA have a Commander in Chief or a Commander in Tweet ? ..btw , where the hell is that wall ?

    Does Congress even exist anymore ?

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Wed, May 3, 2017, at 8:31 PM
  • Rick Lettau

    Let's not forget the Wall Street Health Care Investers are paying Barack Obama $400,000 to make a speech .

    This is not a matter of opinion or using a vivid imagination as you have accused me of using for 8 long years .

    It would be the truth just as so many , many , times I've posted the truth regarding the worst President in the history of the United States of America .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Wed, May 3, 2017, at 8:43 PM
  • I agree with RS, bragging the big spending agreement gets more money for a Republican agenda than a Democrat agenda is not a win for conservative principles. It is more of the same debt and spending of thing.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Wed, May 3, 2017, at 8:55 PM
  • Rick Lettau

    Did you learn in class tonight that it's "We The People" and not "We The Government"? Did you learn the Government works for the People and not the People work for the Government?

    Did you learn the Declaration of Independence clearly states :

    "When a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security." ?

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Wed, May 3, 2017, at 9:12 PM
  • Syrian Air Bases have been moved under Russian missile defense systems . What say you Trump ?

    Iran and North Korea trade missile technology , why should Russia care . What say you Trump ?

    Care to tweet how nasty and bad the Liberal media is treating you and the Peoples with the emphasis on you ?

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Wed, May 3, 2017, at 9:54 PM
  • "...so many , many , times I've posted the truth..."

    You may well believe "your truth" but that has no relation to what actually happened in the real world, rather than what some would have us believe.

    Funny how putting out some factual information drives the SO conservatives and allied independents up the wall. It's easy to get them "all riled up" with the truth.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Wed, May 3, 2017, at 10:00 PM
  • Rick Lettau

    I know what happened . This is true .

    I live in the real world , what makes you , and only you , believe it's your real world ?

    You see , I have no use for Trump , do you ? Am I a Conservative ? Just because I see Obama for the small , small , person he is doesn't mean I'm not Liberal in my own way . Obama is no Liberal , make no mistake . I won't defend him as Glory , do you ?

    Try Independence , it will set you free .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Wed, May 3, 2017, at 10:17 PM
  • For the millionth time , I'm not a Conservative .

    Are you that dam dumb ?

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Wed, May 3, 2017, at 10:20 PM
  • Was it a refresher class on rules for radicals or an assfault class?

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Wed, May 3, 2017, at 10:22 PM
  • Susan Rice refused to testify at the Senate hearings like Comey did .

    Makes a person go hhmm

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, May 4, 2017, at 7:04 AM
  • Funny how putting out some factual information drives the SO conservatives and allied independents up the wall. It's easy to get them "all riled up" with the truth.-- Posted by Rick Lettau on Wed, May 3, 2017, at 10:00 PM

    You haven't put out a truth or fact in 10 years. Count on it.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Thu, May 4, 2017, at 7:16 AM
  • "For the millionth time , I'm not a Conservative."

    Why would you think that I'm not aware of that?

    As I said...

    "...some factual information drives the SO conservatives and allied independents up the wall."

    I guess you didn't catch the "allied independents." The truth seems to bother you as much as it does them.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Thu, May 4, 2017, at 9:14 AM
  • *

    It's easy to tell, next year is an election year.... Clara McCaskill is already running. She's like the old series Chickenman, She's everywhere, She's everywhere. Townhall meeting, after Townhall meeting and now she from the gubmint and she's here to help pass out money for the flood victims.

    Ever tried to contact her office about an issue.... well after the issue is a fact there is a boilerplate response, mostly babble about nothing.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Thu, May 4, 2017, at 9:55 AM
  • *

    Clara McCaskill has reached her Term Limits.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Thu, May 4, 2017, at 9:58 AM
  • *

    Semo471,

    She has about reached my limit, but the US Congress can stay there until they are well into senility. There is living proof, check the Roster.... Chuck Shumer, Diane Feinstein, and then there is Maxine Waters, she has been trying to impeach Trump since November 9th, 2017. Or was it the day he announced he was running for President? Just to name a few.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Thu, May 4, 2017, at 10:09 AM
  • *

    Just pass the new American Health Care Act today so we can see what's in it.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Thu, May 4, 2017, at 10:10 AM
  • Trump/Ryancare may pass the House today and it will be trotted out as some huge accomplishment, however, not only have House of Representative members not read it, but the Senate has already declared it "dead on arrival."

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Thu, May 4, 2017, at 10:15 AM
  • *

    They need to refuse additional funding for Obamacare and let it collapse under it's own weight.

    Then the Democrats can enjoy their failure to the limit in next year's election cycle.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Thu, May 4, 2017, at 11:08 AM
  • *

    "however, not only have House of Representative members not read it,"

    Why do you see that as a problem Commie?

    Remember the Speaker Of The House when the failed Obamacare was passed.... We have to pass the bill to see what is in it?

    Now try denying she said that Common.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Thu, May 4, 2017, at 11:14 AM
  • *

    the Senate has already declared it "dead on arrival."

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Thu, May 4, 2017, at 10:15 AM

    Common: So says the Democratic Senators. Like most Bills passed by the House the Senate will tweak it, vote on it, send it back to the House for a vote, then send it to the President for signing or veto.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Thu, May 4, 2017, at 11:20 AM
  • Exactly, but the "tweaking" is going to be more than minor change.

    I'm sure you recall that President Trump assured America that the new plan would include everyone, would be cheaper, and would provide better insurance.

    Seems like Congress will force him to renege on that, unless of course they come to their senses and go with a single payer plan, which incidentally is the only way for President Trump to win (which would be nice for him, for a change.)

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Thu, May 4, 2017, at 3:10 PM
  • "Now try denying she said that."

    Why would I? I believe that she was talking about the flurry of amendments and changes that came at the end of the process. But then I understand also, that some on here are unable to accept facts that undermine their preconceived notions. Don't worry about it.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Thu, May 4, 2017, at 3:14 PM
  • "...can enjoy their failure to the limit in next year's election cycle."

    It seems they're not going to take your suggestion, and that the "their" now refers to republican/conservatives, and yes, it looks like the democrats will "enjoy" the failure of "Trump/Ryancare."

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Thu, May 4, 2017, at 3:19 PM
  • *

    it looks like the democrats will "enjoy" the failure of "Trump/Ryancare."

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Thu, May 4, 2017, at 3:19 PM

    Common: I wouldn't count my chickens just yet. You're not wishing that the new health care measure fails the public are you....if you do that's not very American of you.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Thu, May 4, 2017, at 4:54 PM
  • David, that a fresh idea common just got from CNN when they replayed the democrats singing na na na goodby to the republicans as soon as the thing passed.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Thu, May 4, 2017, at 5:07 PM
  • I guess you didn't catch the "allied independents." The truth seems to bother you as much as it does them.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Thu, May 4, 2017, at 9:14 AM

    And it bothers you even more .

    Being Independent , it will bother me more , that's only plain to see .

    Again , the SO Conservatives are free to their opinions just the same as you and me .

    .................

    Russian bombers, fighter jets fly near Alaska, prompting Air Force escort

    http://www.foxnews.com/us/2017/05/04/us-air-force-jets-intercept-russian-bombers...

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, May 4, 2017, at 5:19 PM
  • Trump/Ryancare may pass the House today and it will be trotted out as some huge accomplishment, however, not only have House of Representative members not read it, but the Senate has already declared it "dead on arrival."

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Thu, May 4, 2017, at 10:15 AM

    It will be nil and void in the Senate , it was passed just so Trump can tweet he got something done , nothing more , nothing less .

    Speaking of the House of Representative members not reading it , remember Pelosi's famous quote :

    "Let's pass this Bill to see what's in it."....this means nobody read Obamacare either , I wouldn't be pointing this out as an issue now..

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, May 4, 2017, at 5:27 PM
  • Wait , what the **** you mean by "allied independents." ?

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, May 4, 2017, at 5:31 PM
  • The vote today was straight partisan just as the Obamacare vote was straight partisan .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, May 4, 2017, at 5:32 PM
  • Seems I remember an old child's story about a well meaning character making a deal with a ruthless enemy to remove a thorn from his paw in exchange for friendship. It didn't turn out well and I wonder how Trump's re-commitment to freedom of religion will work out concerning the radical Muslims preaching their agenda in American mosques.

    Regarding Republican politics, Ann Coulter offers this:Swamp people 47, Trump 0 http://www.anncoulter.com/

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Thu, May 4, 2017, at 5:47 PM
  • "The vote today was straight partisan..."

    Hardly, 20 republicans voted against it.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Thu, May 4, 2017, at 6:45 PM
  • "You're not wishing that the new health care measure fails the public are you..."

    I would not say that, but is costing most of the public much more than now, "failing?"

    Besides, how could the "really incredible health care plan" fail, here's what the President said...

    "This has really brought the Republican Party together," Trump added. "As much as we've come up with a really incredible health care plan, this has brought the Republican Party together. We're going to get this finished."

    Even though the bill has passed the House, there are major roadblocks ahead in the Senate, where the bill is expected to undergo significant changes.

    However, Trump said he feels "confident" the bill will pass through the Senate and said it "will get even better."

    "It's going to be an unbelievable victory when we get it through the Senate and there's so much spirit there," Trump said."

    http://abcnews.go.com/Politics/house-passes-obamacare-replacement-bill/story?id=...

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Thu, May 4, 2017, at 6:54 PM
  • "...mean by "allied independents." ?

    Thought you said you were an independent? And on SO you're clearly "allied" with all of the participants that make those false claims about President Obama.

    Obviously, they are entitled to their own opinions, but they extend those to "alternative facts."

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Thu, May 4, 2017, at 7:19 PM
  • *

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Thu, May 4, 2017, at 6:54 PM

    Common: You never answer my question - "You're not wishing that the new health care measure fails the public are you....if you do that's not very American of you."

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Thu, May 4, 2017, at 7:23 PM
  • I don't wish it for the sake of the public, but it's likely to happen in spite of my wish.

    Besides it's Obamacare "light," and in any case, the ACA will be around for a few more years.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Thu, May 4, 2017, at 7:44 PM
  • Anything not complementary to Obama is false claims. The far left radical thinking common has sided with has nothing to do with what's good for his country. Now watch as he accuses others of his tactics.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Thu, May 4, 2017, at 7:51 PM
  • *

    the ACA will be around for a few more years.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Thu, May 4, 2017, at 7:44 PM

    Common: What will the folks on Obamacare do when the last insurance provider in the State goes out. Right now 5 states have only one....can you imagine what the price is for coverage with no competition.

    http://www.cnsnews.com/news/article/terence-p-jeffrey/single-provider-5-states-w...

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Thu, May 4, 2017, at 7:57 PM
  • David, Commie doesn't care, he is aligned with the single payer crowd that demand federal government tax confiscation to provide every need cradle to grave in true communist fashion.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Thu, May 4, 2017, at 8:09 PM
  • *

    "Now try denying she said that."

    Why would I? I believe that she was talking about the flurry of amendments and changes that came at the end of the process. But then I understand also, that some on here are unable to accept facts that undermine their preconceived notions. Don't worry about it.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Thu, May 4, 2017, at 3:14 PM

    Common,

    To help you get a true understanding of the people you defend..... try watching her lips move and listen to what is coming out of them.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hV-05TLiiLU

    The fictious BS you spread on here in defense of the indefensible makes anything you say suspect.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Thu, May 4, 2017, at 9:12 PM
  • *

    Told (asked) girlfriend that this is what I want for breakfast tomorrow:

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=71B52QZ0Q-g

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Thu, May 4, 2017, at 9:23 PM
  • "...has sided with has nothing to do with what's good for his country."

    Why is cutting unemployment in half bad for the country?

    Why is providing a higher level of health care not good for the country?

    Why is fixing social security to self sufficiency not good for the country?

    Why is a growing economy bad for the country?

    Why is tax reform to lead to a balanced budget and deficit reduction bad for the country?

    That's just a start, but I don't have any idea of what you think is good for the country.

    All that you do is bluster and whine, and President Obama is not even in charge anymore.

    And then there's this...

    "...federal government tax confiscation to provide every need cradle to grave..."

    ...which is total foolishness.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Thu, May 4, 2017, at 9:30 PM
  • Why is cutting unemployment in half bad for the country?-- Posted by Rick Lettau on Thu, May 4, 2017, at 9:30 PM

    No he didn't. You like to use the U3 number which is a lie. There are more underemployed and unemployed (on and OFF unemployment benefits) under Obama than ever. He NEVER cut it in half. A bold-faced lie.

    ===

    Why is fixing social security to self sufficiency not good for the country?-- Posted by Rick Lettau on Thu, May 4, 2017, at 9:30 PM

    Obama never did that. Now you're making up things again. It's a never ending story of lies and spin with you.

    ===

    Obama's greatest achievement? Doubling the US debt and burdening our future generations. You wear that proudly around your neck now.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Thu, May 4, 2017, at 9:39 PM
  • Or as a poster said in 2009 on this site:

    "PRESIDENT Obama appointed his friend, radical black nationalist Van Jones. as his green jobs czar. Jones, who was jailed for helping incite the 1992 Rodney King riots in Los Angeles, is attacking Glenn Beck, who continues to out Jones' dark past. Jones, who said he was "a rowdy nationalist" before his arrest, emerged from prison and said he had become "a communist." The White House apparently approves and has not raised any challenges or denials, saying only that "Jones is not a czar. He is a special adviser to the president." This is the kind of people who are running the big freighter that Rick Lettau compares to the presidency. This is the kind of man who gives Lettau a warm fuzzy reassuring feeling."

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Thu, May 4, 2017, at 9:43 PM
  • ..uumm

    ..........

    Trump signs executive order to ease restrictions on religious participation in politics

    http://abcnews.go.com/Politics/trump-signs-executive-order-ease-restrictions-rel...

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, May 4, 2017, at 10:08 PM
  • "The vote today was straight partisan..."

    Hardly, 20 republicans voted against it.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Thu, May 4, 2017, at 6:45 PM

    The "Republicans" overwhelmingly defeated the "Democrats" .

    Yes , straight partisan .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, May 4, 2017, at 10:14 PM
  • "Trump signs executive order to ease restrictions on religious participation in politics"

    Should one single Religious belief have Political power over all other Religious belief's?

    How does this work with Freedom of Religion .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, May 4, 2017, at 10:20 PM
  • "The vote today was straight partisan..."

    Hardly, 20 republicans voted against it.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Thu, May 4, 2017, at 6:45 PM

    Oh , now I get it . You mean like the Obamacare vote when nobody actually read the Bill .

    Every single "Democrat" voted yes because Obama told them to and every single "Republican" voted no because nobody knew what in the hell it was all about .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, May 4, 2017, at 10:34 PM
  • Rick Lettau

    btw , you didn't answer , wait , what the **** you mean by "allied independents." ?

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, May 4, 2017, at 11:00 PM
  • Trump to Turnbull: ‘You have better health care than we do’

    NEW YORK - Seconds after praising his party’s efforts to pass a new health-care bill that estimates said would leave millions uninsured, President Donald Trump praised Australia’s government-funded universal heath-care system.

    ‘‘We have a failing health care -- I shouldn’t say this to our great gentleman and my friend from Australia, because you have better health care than we do,’’ a tuxedo-clad Trump said at a meeting with Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull in Manhattan on Thursday.

    Australia has a government-funded health-care system, called Medicare, that exists alongside private insurance. The system is funded in part by taxes, including on the wealthy.

    The comments came hours after Republicans in the House narrowly approved legislation that would repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act.

    http://www.bostonglobe.com/news/politics/2017/05/05/trump-praises-australia-univ...

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Fri, May 5, 2017, at 7:26 AM
  • You Obama People who just bittched and moaned about how bad BushII had the USA screwed up , well look at the USA now . After 8 years of your Obama boy's inept and unqualified actions and the election of a new Commander in Tweet who writes daily Executive Orders on which way a bird should fly . I blame you Obama freaks , you started this mess , the USA was stable until that boy Obama took over and "fundamentally changed America." Well , it's started now , it's happening . And you have the stones to cry and blame all problems on the new Commander in Tweet too when Obama got the ball rolling .

    BushII doesn't look so bad after all now .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Fri, May 5, 2017, at 8:59 AM
  • "...btw , you didn't answer..."

    Sure I did. You claim to be an "independent" and you're "allied" with the SO conservatives about numerous misconceptions.

    But don't worry about it, Mr. Scaggs, you're safe with your small minority of people.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, May 5, 2017, at 10:07 AM
  • *

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, May 5, 2017, at 10:07 AM

    Who is the minority here? Prolific posting doesn't make you a majority by any means.

    That kind of thinking explains why your beliefs exist as they do.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Fri, May 5, 2017, at 10:32 AM
  • "Prolific posting doesn't make you a majority by any means."

    Of course not, but neither does happening to have a few like minded individuals on SO make make you or your opinions representative of the entire nation.

    But the "prolific" was a nice and accurate touch. As in...

    “marked by abundant inventiveness or productivity”

    “Producing or characterized by abundant works or results”

    “producing constant or successful results”

    Thanks.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, May 5, 2017, at 11:01 AM
  • "...because you have better health care than we do,’’ a tuxedo-clad Trump said at a meeting with Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull in Manhattan on Thursday."

    Correct. It also shows that possibly President Trump has not forgotten his past support of single payer.

    That's his only solution if he wants to fulfill his campaign promises for a better, cheaper health care system that covers everyone.

    He certainly will lose if he goes with the Ryan plan that kicks 20 million or more Americans off of health care, takes $800 billion from Medicaid and gives to the 1% as tax cuts.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, May 5, 2017, at 11:22 AM
  • *

    But the "prolific" was a nice and accurate touch. As in...

    “marked by abundant inventiveness or productivity”

    “Producing or characterized by abundant works or results”

    “producing constant or successful results”

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, May 5, 2017, at 11:01 AM

    Common: You are referring about President Trump being prolific are you not....cause he fits your characterization of him by your above definition. Thanks for coming around.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Fri, May 5, 2017, at 11:25 AM
  • But don't worry about it, Mr. Scaggs, you're safe with your small minority of people. -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, May 5, 2017, at 10:07 AM

    Precious coming from the guy who's predicted big republican losses for the past 6 years! Small minority? You couldn't add 1 + 1 correctly.

    Maybe you think Marble Hill is in Illinois? You're living in one of the reddest states in the US. Chew on that. And please go back to school and learn how to do basic math. Apparently that wasn't something the Air Force required you to know.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Fri, May 5, 2017, at 12:27 PM
  • Rick Lettau

    Cheaper Health Insurance begins with eliminating all deductibles of any type for any health care . As it is , a person pays out of pocket plus a monthly premium at the same time , it's a double payment system , People are paying twice for the same care of a health issue .

    The article doesn't say if Australia uses , or has , deductibles . Until these are gone , health care will not be cheaper , it doesn't matter if it's called "Obamacare" , "Trumpcare" , or MickyMouseCare" .

    It doesn't matter if it's "Democrat" or "Republican" , Medical care is about People , not politics...

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Fri, May 5, 2017, at 12:33 PM
  • But don't worry about it, Mr. Scaggs, you're safe with your small minority of people.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, May 5, 2017, at 10:07 AM

    You got that right ! I'd rather be with the minority , have been my entire life , the true minorities , not your black skinned favorites , we be red skins .

    The majority of the USA are Independents , when you figure this out , you'll understand why the Obama/Clinton Agenda was rejected in 2016 . Until then , you cry .

    And I say again , Mr. Scaggs was my father . Maybe you are dumb after all..

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Fri, May 5, 2017, at 12:43 PM
  • "...because you have better health care than we do,’’ a tuxedo-clad Trump said at a meeting with Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull in Manhattan on Thursday." Correct. -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, May 5, 2017, at 11:22 AM

    Another huge pattern behavior with Rick Lettau is his complete disregard for the US debt. He cares about policy/party and little about the financial situation of the country. He should move to beautiful Venezuela or Illinois where debt is killing the people, cutting their savings and pensions.

    What he also forgets - surprising considering his continual claims of service in the military - is that the US defense spending is far, far more than Australia or Canada. It's the price to pay for being the lone superpower. It's easy to fund health care, free cell phones, free rent, free food, free college, free _____ (fill in the blank) when you spend significantly less and little on defense.

    Always have to take the spin out of Commie's posts.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Fri, May 5, 2017, at 12:48 PM
    Response by Jon Rust, Publisher, Southeast Missourian:
    Gentlemen,

    We're conducting more frequent reviews of the tone of commentary on semissourian.com instead of solely relying on community notifications about folks crossing the line. So, we might have missed some items previously. But these recent remarks are getting too much into name calling. Will you please dial back from denigrating each other with slurs? Challenge each other's ideas, absolutely, but let's leave the names or put-downs about where someone is from (another issue that's been seen) off this site. This will help us in NOT having to remove comments.

    Thanks, Jon K. Rust, publisher

  • My apologies .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Fri, May 5, 2017, at 4:26 PM
  • "Cheaper Health Insurance begins with eliminating all deductibles of any type for any health care ."

    I would think just the opposite, when everything is paid for by government, there is no reason for people to care if the cost is too high. Also the liberal case is easier to swallow when medical insurance and health care are confused into the same thing.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Fri, May 5, 2017, at 4:28 PM
  • R. W. Bess

    Personally , the whole of the USA are not liberals . What would be good for the whole of the USA is the issue , no ?

    Paying twice for the same thing at the same time no matter if it's food , clothes , cars , whatever , is not right or fair to anyone no matter their ideology .

    The goal is less , or cheaper , no ?

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Fri, May 5, 2017, at 4:39 PM
  • Jon K. Rust

    Again , my apologies . Thinking first is a difficulty for me at times .

    Sorry

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Fri, May 5, 2017, at 4:41 PM
    Response by Jon K. Rust, Publisher, Southeast Missourian:
    Thanks for assessing if/where conversation can be elevated.
  • R. W. Bess

    Also , get the Government out of Universal Medical Care Insurance . Free Market is the way .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Fri, May 5, 2017, at 4:52 PM
  • *

    Guess "Theorist" (while not being a current poster) has been reading the comments and reporting them to the powers to be.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Fri, May 5, 2017, at 7:45 PM
  • DS, Seems to me the polite society thing is stretching the limits of debate and discussion a bit. I watch our esteemed legislators use a much more mean spirited tone in the Senate and House in their part time work schedule. :)

    I have not been offended by any comments toward me nor have intended to offend anyone but recognize we all have an equal right to be offended if we wish to be.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Fri, May 5, 2017, at 8:14 PM
  • *

    I have not been offended by any comments toward me nor have intended to offend anyone but recognize we all have an equal right to be offended if we wish to be.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Fri, May 5, 2017, at 8:14 PM

    OJ: Agree, the live Republican debates and the so call Democratic debates were more hotly debated than here on this forum. Rules are rules and I guess he who has the power makes the rules.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Fri, May 5, 2017, at 8:28 PM
  • -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Fri, May 5, 2017, at 8:14 PM

    OJ - EXACTLY what I was thinking. Late night TV hosts are more vulgar, insulting and offensive than anything I've seen.

    But it is what it is.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Fri, May 5, 2017, at 9:47 PM
  • I say we get back to the polite discussion of things like how the Republicans just gave away the funding for a wall and how the Democrats are claiming the bill just gave tax cuts to the rich so poor people can lose 'heath insurance'.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Fri, May 5, 2017, at 10:05 PM
  • *

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Fri, May 5, 2017, at 10:05 PM

    OJ: I respectfully and humbly disagree with your two statements about the Republicans and Democrats.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Fri, May 5, 2017, at 10:38 PM
  • DS Thank you for your respectful reply. Mr Moderator, I must submit my good friend of opposing opinion may have misread my intent.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Fri, May 5, 2017, at 10:51 PM
  • "...just gave tax cuts to the rich so poor people can lose 'heath insurance'."

    Close, but not quite correct. What President Trump did was cut Medicaid and insurance for the poor in order to give tax cuts to the rich. Should make some wonder, how much is in it for him and his family and cabinet?

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Sat, May 6, 2017, at 8:27 AM
  • *

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Sat, May 6, 2017, at 8:27 AM

    Common: IMORH (In My Opinion Respectfully and Humbly), what is tax cuts to the rich....doesn't tax cuts across the board effect everyone rich, middle, and poor. If you would kindly explain how only the rich gets the tax cuts only I would appreciate it and will be forever grateful for your wisdom of which I am lacking.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Sat, May 6, 2017, at 8:40 AM
  • *

    Well, we have heard from the majority of one already this morning.

    You know Common you might want to wait to see what Trump signs before you start your supposing.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Sat, May 6, 2017, at 8:46 AM
  • *

    Semo471

    Those who are not paying taxes cannot receive tax cuts, unless of course they are given a check out of what the rest of us are paying.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Sat, May 6, 2017, at 8:50 AM
  • *

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Sat, May 6, 2017, at 8:46 AM

    Wheels: IMORH, the kind compassionate Democrats apparently don't know that what the Republicans passed yesterday is not a Bill but will be tweaked by the Senate and sent back to the House for another vote then signing by the President....some political party (the one with the donkey) jumps to conclusions before brain is in drive. Then the kind compassionate Snowflakes (those who don't know who won the election) are stirred up and protesting over things that are Fake spread by the party of the donkey. This message is not to offend anyone and if it does I am deeply sorry for any necessary medical/mental treatment that one incurs.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Sat, May 6, 2017, at 9:00 AM
  • *

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Sat, May 6, 2017, at 8:50 AM

    Wheels: Then the Government needs to give those that do not pay any taxes (no fault of theirs) free money so as the Government can then tax them and thus they will receive a tax cut along with those that does pay taxes. This message is not to offend anyone and if it does I am deeply sorry for any necessary medical/mental treatment that one incurs.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Sat, May 6, 2017, at 9:04 AM
  • What President Trump did was cut Medicaid and insurance for the poor in order to give tax cuts to the rich. Should make some wonder, how much is in it for him and his family and cabinet? -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Sat, May 6, 2017, at 8:27 AM

    If you're not too offended Mr. Lettau, may I respectfully ask with no hostile intentions but pure sincerity... I believe there have been NO cuts to Medicaid and insurance for the poor. When did he cut it?

    And since you post as an expert on such matters, how much should the non-working poor get in government benefits? Is there no limit to such thinking?

    Respectfully.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Sat, May 6, 2017, at 9:09 AM
  • Should make one wonder what kind of logic concludes President Trump needs to do anything for money considering his net worth.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Sat, May 6, 2017, at 9:21 AM
  • Methinks it was my **** that created the slap on the hands to all posters to which I apologize . I won't apologize for exercising my Free Speech , I will for the **** .

    My belief is to get Government controls out of Medical Insurance and let the Free Market take over .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sat, May 6, 2017, at 9:36 AM
  • *

    Girlfriend and I are leaving to attend the Birthday Party of our granddaughter who turns 12. Be kind and compassionate to others on this forum today. Semo471 out. This message is not to offend anyone and if it does I am deeply sorry for any necessary medical/mental treatment that one incurs.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Sat, May 6, 2017, at 9:47 AM
  • Close, but not quite correct. What President Trump did was cut Medicaid and insurance for the poor in order to give tax cuts to the rich. Should make some wonder, how much is in it for him and his family and cabinet?

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Sat, May 6, 2017, at 8:27 AM

    Medicaid is an individual State issue , no ? Each State decides the amount of Medicaid recipients .

    As to how much is in it for him and his family , would this include their time in the Office or time included not in the Office too .

    I only ask due to the $400 grand Obama will earn making speeches to Wall Street Investors regarding Health Care now that he is in the private sector .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sat, May 6, 2017, at 10:09 AM
  • Actually , Bill Clinton has done quite well himself too .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sat, May 6, 2017, at 10:11 AM
  • Methinks it was my **** that created the slap on the hands to all posters to which I apologize. -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sat, May 6, 2017, at 9:36 AM

    Not sure about that Rick. Thought maybe it was directed at me as well. Since a recent poster claimed to have knowledge of my "reputation" from the moderator themselves.

    It's really gotten down to one far-left poster who continually regurgitates meaningless talking points to the moderates, conservatives and independents that are left. I used to pick up some good insight and learn from the give and take in comments.

    Some are SO party loyal it's just not worth the time it takes to have a conversation. Shapley used to try with Common and I always admired his patience. I learned a lot from Shapley's comments and insight. But it never went anywhere with Common. Facts don't matter to the far-left democrats. Party. Party. Party first. Country second.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Sat, May 6, 2017, at 10:26 AM
  • Doug

    You're probably right . The new rules do seem kind of touchy .

    Us injuns blood run hot sometimes though and don't know when to quit .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sat, May 6, 2017, at 11:32 AM
  • What is somewhat humorous and about the opinions of Mr. Williams, is that I can express my opinion in almost exactly the same fashion…

    Try this version:

    “It's really gotten down to [a few] far-[right] posters who continually regurgitates meaningless talking points to the moderates, [liberals] and independents that are left. I used to pick up some good insight and learn from the give and take in comments. [Questionable.]

    Some are SO party loyal it's just not worth the time it takes to have a conversation. Shapley used to [discuss issues] with [me, and I] always admired [his contributions.]. I learned a lot from Shapley's comments and insight. But it never went anywhere with [Mr. Willaims.] Facts don't matter to the far-[right republican/conservatives]. Party. Party. Party first. Country second.”

    Opinions are not reserved for republicans only. Good example is that I am strongly in favor of a balanced budget, tax reform, social security stabilization, Medicare repair, and welfare reform, etc., but for some reason, I am not “allowed” to be in favor.

    As for “insights” and “give and take,” try this example. It is a fact the economy grew from the end of the recession that happened to have occurred during the President Bush administration, to now. It would be fair to observe to observe that the rate of average rate of growth from 2010 to2016 was 2.1%. One of the obvious caused of slower economic growth is the reduction of manufacturing jobs due to automation and the out sourcing by American companies to factories where wages are about $1 an hour or less. The point is that almost all events in recent years have a large variety of causes and one political side will “latch” on to whatever interpretation is favorable to them, even if it requires “alternative facts.”

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Sat, May 6, 2017, at 9:38 PM
  • “It's really gotten down to [a few] far-[right]-- Posted by Rick Lettau on Sat, May 6, 2017, at 9:38 PM

    If there are a "few" far-right posters there one far-left posters. You're it. Just like the voting population of Missouri. You're all alone.

    I personally thank you on many occasions for your unreasonable, factless postings and rants and what it has cost you, Harry, Nancy and Hillary. You've been rejected.

    I didn't read the your posting above other than the first paragraph. But let me guess...

    -you went on about some great Obama accomplishments

    -you completely ignore the debt he created in your statement

    -you may/may not have attacked Bush (50/50 chance in your postings - "It's Bush's fault")

    -you talk about unemployment, etc. without acknowledging the huge increase in long-term unemployed and under employed Obama created

    -and you deny Obama's lies on healthcare, doctors, current insurance and about 1000 other lies he told that you bought

    I'll guarantee you that would sum up your posting. It's that bad. Every. Single. Time. Obama good - everything else bad.

    Again - look around, you're all alone on here. Just like your party in Missouri.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Sat, May 6, 2017, at 9:45 PM
  • "What President Trump did was cut Medicaid and insurance for the poor in order to give tax cuts to the rich."

    RL, Is this factual or just Pelosi talking points that the media keeps repeating? Trump hasn't signed anything pertaining to Medicaid, insurance or tax cuts unless I missed something.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Sat, May 6, 2017, at 10:21 PM
  • Until Health care is separated from medical insurance, cost of health care will continue to be overpriced.

    Routine health check ups, dental check ups and such should be left to private market competition. Some Medical insurance companies are already giving discounts to those who have regular screenings and checkups We get a discount on our insurance for being enrolled in a healthy living program that involves a 30 minute class about diet and health awareness.

    When I think about it, why should having a baby be paid for by insurance from start to finish? Most hospitals see that service as the only time anyone wants to be in a hospital, it's a public relations win and I'm guessing most would offer prepayment arrangements. The price of birth could be competitive and the government could still pay for the deadbeats to have government babies.

    Just a ramble but I think I make as much sense as the people that want us to follow Venezuela's lead.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Sat, May 6, 2017, at 10:45 PM
  • I will wait till morning to get my reply unless I offended someone and can't talk.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Sat, May 6, 2017, at 10:47 PM
  • The growth in population , whether it be by child birth or immigration , is on a faster pace then jobs and the work force . There are more People who need medical care , which is now mandated by the Government , then there is a work force to pay for them . As automation grows , there will be even less .

    As the Government pointed out itself , one problem with the ACA was there were more sick People then anticipated . Each year premiums rise and deductibles rise to try and keep up but it's not working so far . The gap is only going to grow , the ACA will cave in due to lack of funds .

    I've heard several pro-ACA complain about the new replace and repeal with the quote : "This bad bill is terrible and will not fix the current bad bill."

    It says a lot , Capital Hill , or those who created the ACA , already know the ACA is bad and isn't working .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sun, May 7, 2017, at 6:57 AM
  • During the Obama years Socialism was mandated , the 2nd Amendment of the USA Constitution was attacked more then once , the Police became the criminal and DOJ became the local Law enforcement , race Social unrest happened in almost every major urban area of the USA , the Christian belief was attacked , and the Confederate Flag was taken down by mandate . I'm sure I missed a few .

    Creating jobs are beyond the scope of Government , no where in the USA Constitution does it say anything about the Right for a job . Yes regulations and taxes can be manipulated , but what the Government can give , the Government can take away . The same with Health Care , no where does the Right to health care appear in the Constitution . To give Obama , or Congress , credit for these would be incorrect , they may have used manipulations , but jobs and health care are beyond the scope of Government . It is nothing but pure ideology belief , nothing more , nothing less .

    Obama is no hero . No , far from it , he now earns income from the very Legislation that mandated Socialism to every person in America . This is greed , unethical , and not in the interests of the Peoples .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sun, May 7, 2017, at 7:42 AM
  • View points from an Independent injun .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sun, May 7, 2017, at 8:53 AM
  • *

    Well, we have heard from the majority of one already this morning.

    You know Common you might want to wait to see what Trump signs before you start your supposing.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Sun, May 7, 2017, at 8:56 AM
  • *

    Good grief I posted this a couple of days ago in reference to someone else. It was not meant for you Rick.... so sorry, I must need some more coffee.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Sun, May 7, 2017, at 9:03 AM
  • *

    Jon Rust,

    So once again we are reprimanded for posts. When people discuss some subjects it is pretty much a given that sometimes things get heated.

    I have not seen any increase in posters since the rules change. As a matter of fact there is a very marked decrease in posters.

    All of the high profile people who praised the move don't even comment! You fell for their complaining about the pseudonyms when in reality they just wanted to know who it was that were speaking against them. You stopped those who were speaking out!

    This is supposed to be Speak Out but anymore it is becoming impossible to do so. Many are afraid to say anything due to the fact that now you can be targeted for speaking out against anything. Now we are losing our right to free speech.

    You are saying that if we disagree strongly with someone now the posts are removed. I read nothing in the exchange that you admonished them over that couldn't have been read by my grandmother.

    Mr. Rust you are supposed to be a protector of free speech but are actually stopping it.

    Your changes are alienating many. If things continue to go downhill I won't renew. I feel you have probably lost some already and will continue to do so if you stay on this path and deny us our freedom of speech.

    -- Posted by Karen Jones on Sun, May 7, 2017, at 6:04 PM
    Response by Jon K. Rust, Publisher, Southeast Missourian:
    Disagreement and strong disagreement are welcomed. We are simply encouraging (and moderating) this be done without slurs. Note: No comments were removed regarding this admonition, though others have been for clearly crossing the line, i.e. profanity or simple name-calling without other argument.
  • *

    -- Posted by Karen Jones on Sun, May 7, 2017, at 6:04 PM

    Iamhere: The kind and compassionate sock puppets and their masters have not signed up under the new format....at least that's a plus.

    *******

    The Snowflakes are having 3 kinds of fits over the Health Care Act passed last Friday....one of the comments on social media is that 24 million Americans will not have health care coverage - the truth is that's about the same as there is now under Obamacare. The kind and compassionate Snowflakes are lead by those in the DNC who has lost more seats in Congress, more State Houses, and the Presidency in the last 8 years than any other comparable years.

    This message is not to offend anyone and if it does I am deeply sorry for any necessary medical/mental treatment that one incurs.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Sun, May 7, 2017, at 7:06 PM
  • *

    -- Posted by Karen Jones on Sun, May 7, 2017, at 6:04 PM

    Iam,

    I think you make a good point and I will try my best to stay within the rules, but when some come off with the goofy stuff, I cannot help it, I feel compelled to voice my disagreement. It is never going to be total happiness with everybody on a forum such as this, it would be unreasonable to think that it would.

    I guess I understand the need to keep it as respectful as possible in a family newspaper but you cannot reasonably expect people to all be in agreement.

    I personally do not like most of the editorial cartoons because I feel they are one sided and to a great degree unfair.

    Know how I handle it...... on most days I ignore the fact they are in the paper.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Sun, May 7, 2017, at 7:52 PM
  • *

    Thought for a minute there I was going blind.... then I checked and found my screen was at 80%.

    Those small numbers are not for old folks.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Sun, May 7, 2017, at 7:59 PM
  • Good example of the manner of irrational discourse we were hoping to avoid.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, May 8, 2017, at 7:22 AM
    Response by Jon K. Rust, Publisher, Southeast Missourian:
    Note: Offending comment that this comment refers to was removed.
  • "...Trump hasn't signed anything pertaining to Medicaid, insurance or tax cuts unless I missed something."

    That's correct. It must be that his Rose Garden victory party, which was just for one piece of legislation that barely passed one chamber of Congress, was merely for show.

    Here's what you missed...

    The AHCA’s Tradeoff: Giving Up Vital Care to Get Tax Cuts for the Rich.

    Out of all the interest groups involved in the American health system, the current Republican proposal focuses on rewarding the country’s highest earners.

    J. Scott Applewhite / AP

    "If the terminology of Republican Medicaid policy—“per-capita caps,” “block grants,” “inflation targets”—seems a bit arcane, Monday’s release of the Congressional Budget Office’s report on the GOP’s repeal-and-replace bill makes it pretty simple: The current health-care proposal is about rationing care to fund tax cuts for the U.S.’s highest earners.

    In the past, accusations of care-rationing have been a favorite attack on the Affordable Care Act by Republican leaders such as House Speaker Paul Ryan and House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy.

    “Yet Republican efforts to cap and cut Medicaid make pretty clear that the strategy is to pay for tax cuts that largely benefit the highest earners by forcing governors to become rationers-in-chief—making painful choices regarding how to best ration or deny health care to those in nursing homes, with disabilities, and/or near the poverty line (and that’s in addition to the 14 million Americans who are projected to be completely denied Medicaid coverage over the next decade under the Republican proposal).

    “As Ezekiel Emanuel, Aaron Glickman, and Emily Gudbranson recently wrote in The New York Times, the current Republican bill would lead to painful limits on treatment that would “force states to ration care and deny some Americans lifesaving treatments or nursing home care.”

    “Rationing care to fund high-income tax cuts is not just the byproduct of the Republican Medicaid plan, but rather at the heart of it. The motivation of nearly every GOP health-care proposal past and present—to end the guarantee of coverage for those eligible for Medicaid, and replace it with spending caps—has always had more to do with supply-side fiscal policy than health-care reform.”

    https://www.theatlantic.com/business/archive/2017/03/ahca-economics/519498/

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, May 8, 2017, at 7:36 AM
  • *

    “Rationing care to fund high-income tax cuts"

    Common, in one form or another you mentioned that same insane message at least 4 times in your DNC talking points inspired diatribe.

    Your Socialistic/Communistic message intent comes through loud and clear.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Mon, May 8, 2017, at 8:06 AM
  • *

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, May 8, 2017, at 7:36 AM

    Common: There you go again....do you not think that the high cost of Obamacare premiums/deductibles needs to be addressed and for some who might need it due to being too poor to purchase insurance can apply for the State's Medicaid program for help. This would be the kind and compassionate way to approach health care without ballooning the National Debt....you can admit that is true can you not.

    This message is not to offend anyone and if it does I am deeply sorry for any necessary medical/mental treatment that one incurs.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Mon, May 8, 2017, at 8:18 AM
  • Mr.Obama went on a rampage at the Kennedy Center about the United States of America . He went on in a fever pitch how "this isn't a white America , or a black America , or a Latino America , or an Asian America , this was the United States of America !" He got a roaring ovation from the crowd . I'm sure it was a shot at Trump .

    For one , it's an example of his Racist ideology , why would he label the Peoples into their Race ? For two , if he is really sincere , he should make speeches to oppose such labels as "African/Americans" and "Native/Americans" or "Latino/Americans" or "white supremist" . He should make it a point to say everyone in the United States of America are People .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, May 8, 2017, at 8:51 AM
  • "If you don't like free speech, too bad for you."

    Why would you think I don't like free speech? The KKK has free speech, skinheads have free speech, the remnants of the nazi party have free speech, AIM has free speech, the ALCU has free speech, the black panthers have free speech and so do you.

    I'm actually happy for you.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, May 8, 2017, at 8:52 AM
  • "He should make it a point to say everyone in the United States of America are People."

    I'd suggest that he did. Not white, not black, not Latino, not Asian...

    "...this was the United States of America!"

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, May 8, 2017, at 8:56 AM
  • Good example of the manner of irrational discourse we were hoping to avoid.

    .............

    btw..who is "we" ?? The "Democrat" ? "Leftist" ? Those who want to silence Peoples voices who oppose oppression and controls ?

    "Listen and silent are spelled with the same letters" does not apply with me .

    You post your continuous blinded one sided rhetoric , I'll post my Independent voice . If this is irrational discourse , it's a two way street , it goes both ways .

    Now , Obama sucks . Just for the "we" crowd...

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, May 8, 2017, at 9:02 AM
  • Wow. Gone a couple of days and it's nothing new. Just Common defending his party, party, party. I'll save some keystrokes and cut and paste.

    ===

    It's really gotten down to one far-left poster who continually regurgitates meaningless talking points to the moderates, conservatives and independents that are left.

    I learned a lot from Shapley's comments and insight. But it never went anywhere with Common. Facts don't matter to the far-left democrats. Party. Party. Party first. Country second.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams on Sat, May 6, 2017, at 10:26 AM

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Mon, May 8, 2017, at 9:03 AM
  • *

    -- Posted by Doug Williams on Mon, May 8, 2017, at 9:03 AM

    Doug: I must have missed something, what happen to "Shapley".

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Mon, May 8, 2017, at 9:54 AM
  • Rick L. rebuttal is opinion from AP, NYT etc and follows the constant far left talking points of tax cuts for the wealthy regardless of what is proposed. I'm Still waiting for Granny over the cliff rhetoric to be renewed.

    Until health care and medical insurance is recognized as two different things, nothing will get done.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Mon, May 8, 2017, at 11:00 AM
  • Trump - Growing With the Job

    I'm not really seeing much growth . Yeah , it's only been 100 days or so , but what's happened couldn't be growth for the People's as a whole , or so it seems .

    There is no Wall as he promised . Where are those 1,000's of jobs ? I'm not saying more jobs have been started but not 1,000's , jobs are beyond the scope of Government anyway , Government is to work for the People , not the People work for the Government . In my Opinion , I see talk , I don't see the walk . I hear how regulations are being nullified with Trump holding the signings up in the air for all to see , more great photo ops .

    Is there a Secretary of State , if so , what are they doing?

    Is there an Independent House of Representatives or is it just a committee of "yes men"? The replace and repeal is what Trump wanted but what's it all about , is it any different then the current Obamacare that People really don't know what it's all about? The new budget is a spending of $1.1 trillion , a "win for the American People" . How can it be so?

    Missiles were sent to Syria as a show of might , quite the show . What's the out come ? Syria is the same , death and sufferage daily . Syria just moved it's air base with Russian missiles defense systems guarding it now . I'm sure some sort of chemicals are still around , nobody made sure they are gone .

    The largest non-nuke bomb was dropped on Afghanistan as a show of force . What's the outcome? Terrorist hit the Capital of Kabul twice and now Marines have been sent back to Afghanistan .

    Who knows what's up with North Korea , which way is that armada really going and what's it even going to do if it finds out where it's suppose to go? All the while North Korea gives the USA the middle finger for all the world to see .

    It seems like Trump has a Leader of a foreign Nation in the White House every other day , great photo ops , but what are they for , what does it do . Are they auditioning for a new Reality Show ?

    Let me see something .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, May 8, 2017, at 11:02 AM
  • Health Care Insurance

    Get rid of all those deductibles , every one of them so People aren't paying twice for the same medical issue they may have .

    Go back to the free market so the prices will be competitive . As it is , the Government can set the price , the Peoples will have to pay , Socialism is mandated . Socialism has kept everyone equally poor since 1917 .

    ......

    The big show at the Kennedy Center , all of the big-wigs making speeches before Obama compared him as Kennedy , just as good , the next Kennedy . I wanted to puke . Barack Obama is no where near John F. Kennedy , he's not even qualified to be his chauffer . It made me sick , I wanted to throw a brick at the TV...

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, May 8, 2017, at 11:08 AM
  • "This would be the kind and compassionate way to approach health care without ballooning the National Debt....you can admit that is true can you not."

    Not sure where the "kindness and compassion" are.

    If you seek rational health care without "ballooning the national debt" you're on the road to a single payer system.

    The republicans/conservatives are tragically enamored with an elusive “free market solution” to health care which may be non-existent.

    Clearly the free market works most effectively when there are numerous choices and competition. Another, less often mentioned, factor that is equally indispensable to a real free market is the “do nothing” or “don’t buy” option. You may have a large number of choices in big screen TV’s, cell phones, automobiles, or ice cream flavors, but in the end, you can decide not to buy anything.

    In health care, the “do nothing” option can lead to death in examples like heart attacks, strokes, cancer, etc. Furthermore, health problems seldom allow unlimited time to “shop around.” Having a child stricken with a 103 degree temperature, a parent is unlikely to check on what the local hospital will charge, and then go 30 miles to the next town to find a better price for treatment.

    If you’re sick or your child’s ill, you go to where treatment is available, regardless of cost. The republican/conservative slant on health care being a “privilege” not a “right,” remains one of their objections to a rational approach. Unfortunately this has long been overridden by laws requiring hospitals to treat everyone, which can only be supported by a “right to health care.” Otherwise, emergency room entrances would be equipped with a pre-pay slot for your credit card, just as gas pumps are.

    Insurance companies are more than somewhat aware of the fact that everyone does or will eventually, need their products. They can charge, with few restrictions, whatever the “traffic will bear,” and have fairly well divided the nation into market shares.

    All of these factors are what made the ACA so complex, and what is still preventing the republican/conservatives from developing an effective “replacement for Obamacare.” Add to this the comment last from February…

    President Donald Trump on Monday claimed that “nobody knew that health care could be so complicated…”

    Really?

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, May 8, 2017, at 11:19 AM
  • *

    If you seek rational health care without "ballooning the national debt" you're on the road to a single payer system.

    Common: You missed the point, giving away free or nearly free insurance with the tax payers footing the bill Balloons the Federal Debt....the truly needy has the States Medicaid to use - the rest can get off the couch and get a job.

    Clearly the free market works most effectively when there are numerous choices and competition. Another, less often mentioned, factor that is equally indispensable to a real free market is the “do nothing” or “don’t buy” option.

    Common: If parents are real parents and not welfare parents, they will make certain that their children are protected by having medical insurance.

    --Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, May 8, 2017, at 11:19 AM

    This message is not to offend anyone and if it does I am deeply sorry for any necessary medical/mental treatment that one incurs.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Mon, May 8, 2017, at 11:45 AM
  • When health care evolved into HMOs, it was not kept separate from medical insurance and thus the cry of death panels and profit motivated strangers making decisions on treatment. Routine health care choices like birth control, dental screenings and ED options should not be covered by medical insurance. I am confident that if mammograms were not covered, the women's clinics would be advertising low prices for the service, same as the optometrists compete. Health plans would evolve to offer payment of such services for monthly fees.

    What I am saying is medical insurance is overpriced due to government. Each state has a different dept of insurance or set of rules making it unprofitable for large insurance companies to compete.

    Get the past the democrat republican want to stay in office for ever attiude and a solution is not that hard.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Mon, May 8, 2017, at 12:00 PM
  • "What I am saying is medical insurance is overpriced due to government."

    There are certain controls that state governments put on insurance companies, primarily to protect people.

    The original Blue Cross only covered hospitalization, but over time insurance companies found more ways to make money by covering more things.

    You see the same thing now with car repair and home repair. The TV ads tell you to, "Never pay repair bills again!" The temptation is there, but they don't admit that by saving your own money for unforeseen repairs, you'd be ahead.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, May 8, 2017, at 12:43 PM
  • President Donald Trump on Monday claimed that “nobody knew that health care could be so complicated…” Really? -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, May 8, 2017, at 11:19 AM

    ===

    President Obama claimed that "shovel ready wasn't exactly shovel ready" after spending $1 TRILLION of so-called "stimulus" money to his donors.

    Where was your nose when that statement was made? Spinning and defending your Messiah as usual. Really.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Mon, May 8, 2017, at 12:56 PM
  • *

    President Donald Trump on Monday claimed that “nobody knew that health care could be so complicated…” Really? -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, May 8, 2017, at 11:19 AM

    Common: He said it was complicated but he didn't say that it was not fixable.

    This message is not to offend anyone and if it does I am deeply sorry for any necessary medical/mental treatment that one incurs.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Mon, May 8, 2017, at 1:20 PM
  • "He said it was complicated but he didn't say that it was not fixable."

    It would be simpler and less of a problem to fix the ACA.

    What's most alarming is that he claimed that "nobody knew."

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, May 8, 2017, at 1:30 PM
  • *

    What's most alarming is that he claimed that "nobody knew."

    - Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, May 8, 2017, at 1:30 PM

    Common: Just like the kind compassionate Democrats didn't know what was in Obamacare, so they just passed it per Nancy just to see what was in it.

    This message is not to offend anyone and if it does I am deeply sorry for any necessary medical/mental treatment that one incurs.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Mon, May 8, 2017, at 2:05 PM
  • That's easy to fix...

    Just like the kind compassionate [republicans] didn't know what was in [Trump]care, so they just passed it per [Ryan] just to see what was in it.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, May 8, 2017, at 2:09 PM
  • "Let's pass this Bill to see what's in it ."

    Nancy Pelosi

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, May 8, 2017, at 3:17 PM
  • If People have to remain drug free to keep their jobs , shouldn't People who receive Entitlements be required to remain drug free to receive their benefits , such as Health Insurance ?

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, May 8, 2017, at 3:20 PM
  • It’s been six years since Obamacare was signed into law and we’re still finding nasty little surprises in the bill (Nancy Pelosi must be so thrilled). The whole thing is like hemorrhoids – you think you can deal with it, but then there’s a flare-up and… nope. No, you can’t.

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, May 8, 2017, at 3:28 PM
  • The fact is , you can not force a doctor to accept a patient . You can pass all of the feel good Laws up the ying yang but you can't force a doctor to admit a patient . The Pro-Obama People who put him on a mountain top might consider lighting strikes...

    ...............

    Doctors in the United States appear as bitterly divided over the Affordable Care Act as the general public.

    The Affordable Care Act (ACA), also called Obamacare, has been a lightning rod since it was signed into law in 2010.

    Five years after its enactment, the healthcare reform legislation still divides the American public. In a Gallup poll taken in early April, 50 percent of people surveyed said they disapprove of the act while 44 percent said they approve.

    So, perhaps it’s no surprise that America’s 1 million doctors appear to be as split on Obamacare as the general public.

    The Physicians Foundation released a survey last fall in which 20,000 doctors responded by email to an array of questions.

    Of the respondents, 46 percent gave Obamacare a D or F grade, while 25 percent gave it an A or B grade.

    In addition, two-thirds of those responding said they did not accept health insurance plans offered through the Affordable Care Act’s online insurance exchanges.

    http://www.healthline.com/health-news/do-doctors-loathe-obamacare-041415

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, May 8, 2017, at 3:34 PM
  • The same would be true for whatever Trump comes up with ....

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, May 8, 2017, at 3:34 PM
  • You see the same thing now with car repair and home repair. The TV ads tell you to, "Never pay repair bills again!" The temptation is there, but they don't admit that by saving your own money for unforeseen repairs, you'd be ahead.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, May 8, 2017, at 12:43 PM

    We agree on something! Wonder why so many get so out of joint when someone mentions vouchers or medical savings plans.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Mon, May 8, 2017, at 5:30 PM
  • "Let's pass this Bill to see what's in it ."

    Paul Ryan

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, May 8, 2017, at 6:13 PM
  • "You can keep your current insurance. Period." - Common

    "You can keep your current doctor. Period." - Common

    "Raising the US debt limit is a sign of leadership failure." - Common

    Yeah. You have a lot of credibility here.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Mon, May 8, 2017, at 6:20 PM
  • "...when someone mentions vouchers or medical savings plans."

    If the "vouchers" are for education, they undermine public schools.

    With medical savings plans, you get tax deductible savings. For medical savings plans to work, Americans can't be living from pay check to pay check, as so many Americans are, unable to adequately save.

    Guess what group of Americans can, and will, take full advantage of tax reductions and breaks?

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, May 8, 2017, at 6:31 PM
  • Guess what group of Americans can, and will, take full advantage of tax reductions and breaks?

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, May 8, 2017, at 6:31 PM

    I'm going to guess it would be the same people who pay no taxes but get tax refunds the way it is now.

    Nothing will help the deadbeats, the idea I thought was to help middle class working people.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Mon, May 8, 2017, at 7:06 PM
  • "Let's pass this Bill to see what's in it ."

    Paul Ryan

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, May 8, 2017, at 6:13 PM

    No , Nancy Pelosi said that in 2010 .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, May 8, 2017, at 7:43 PM
  • "...thought was to help middle class working people."

    Still the working middle class has little room for saving, and the deadbeats have less. Guess that just leaves the "upper" class to take more tax breaks.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, May 8, 2017, at 7:53 PM
  • "No, Nancy Pelosi said that in 2010.

    So did the republicans...

    "Spicer's argument that it's impossible to know what the bill will do is especially galling given all of the evidence that his boss, President Donald Trump, has no idea what is in the bill. The White House is effectively making the case for ignorance about a bill that will affect health coverage for millions, and will reorganize a sixth of the U.S. economy.

    "To summarize: Republicans don't know what's in the bill. They don't know what it will cost. And they don't know what it will do. But they must pass it immediately."

    http://reason.com/blog/2017/05/04/republicans-health-care-cost-cbo-ahca

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, May 8, 2017, at 8:10 PM
  • *

    Guess what group of Americans can, and will, take full advantage of tax reductions and breaks?

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, May 8, 2017, at 6:31 PM

    Common: The kind and compassionate Blood Sucking Freeloaders will soak the system for everything free.

    Still the working middle class has little room for saving, and the deadbeats have less. Guess that just leaves the "upper" class to take more tax breaks.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, May 8, 2017, at 7:53 PM

    Common: Girlfriend and I were considered working middle class and we managed to save some....the key is to live within your means. Why would anyone give grief to those that make more money than others, don't they pay more taxes then those who pay little or no taxes. It's only fair for everyone to get the same tax breaks, if you don't get any money back and don't contribute in the form of taxes paid then you can't complain.

    This message is not to offend anyone and if it does I am deeply sorry for any necessary medical/mental treatment that one incurs.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Mon, May 8, 2017, at 8:42 PM
  • If the "vouchers" are for education, they undermine public schools. -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, May 8, 2017, at 6:31 PM

    Are these the same public schools that democrats like yourself have been whining about how they are failing our youth? Doesn't surprise me you support them - another failed "throw more money at it" solution.

    "reason.com" is your source today? What's the matter, Rachel Maddow or the DNC web site down? LOL.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Mon, May 8, 2017, at 9:49 PM
  • DS, I thought I was middle class until President Carter defined middle class as making $55,000 per year. Democrats are the party of the rich. :)

    I need to refresh my history and learn when free public education became a right or mandate. I'm thinking early "public" education was locally funded and developed in counties and not under state or federal control.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Mon, May 8, 2017, at 10:45 PM
  • *

    R.W.

    There was a time in the 1800's where if I remember the Section No correctly, Section 16 in each Township was set aside for the support of schools. I know it was true in Bollinger County. And there was enough money raised that money was at times loaned from the school fund to people. That would be income from 640 acres.

    I would have to refresh my memory for full details.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Mon, May 8, 2017, at 11:32 PM
  • -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, May 8, 2017, at 8:10 PM

    First you posted Paul Ryan made quote . Now you post Spicer made the quote . Which shall it be . The fact being , Nancy Pelosa made the quote when this whole fiasco started from the beginning .

    The working middle class is disappearing due to advancing automation technology . What 5 workers could do can now be done by 1 worker due to robotics and automation , this leaves 1 worker to try and cover the other 4 workers Entitlements until they can find other meaningful employment , if there even is any . This feel good health insurance is here to stay for everyone will not have the funds to cover everyone , 1 out of 5 People can not cover the costs to 1 out of every 5 People that's already on top of the current costs . The PPACA is like too much snow on top of the lodges , it will cave in in it's own weight , the clock is ticking .

    There are many who try to toy with People's emotions using infants and children's health defects as examples for the need of the PPACA . As sad as these occurrances are , they are very few and far between . The total costs to their health care is not covered by and medical insurance , it helps , but it won't cover the entire bill . Medicaid only covers about 33% of the costs to cancer patient coverage , or it did in 2013 , why aren't the pro-PPACA stating these facts ?

    The costs to my gun shot hospital surgery and stay was close to $90,000 , my insurance didn't come close to covering that .

    The problem is the costs to procedures , medications , doctor bills , and insurance coverage to the doctors and hospitals their selves due to law suits from patients .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Tue, May 9, 2017, at 6:44 AM
  • *

    A couple of questions for Common...

    1. Do you think we should have a classless society?

    2. If you envy the wealthy class so much, why didn't you apply yourself during those roughly 40 years you received your education and you became Medicare material and become one of the 1%?

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Tue, May 9, 2017, at 7:50 AM
  • 1. No.

    2. I don't envy anyone. I am perfectly satisfied with my career choices which didn't happen to be geared toward wealth accumulation. I'm confident that 25 years of military service and 15 years of construction work (in which I'm still engaged) have made a productive and more than adequate contribution to American society.

    Medicare was automatic at 65 because the DOD and HHS made an arrangement for Medicare to be the primary source of coverage and Tricare secondary.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Tue, May 9, 2017, at 8:28 AM
  • *

    15 years of construction work (in which I'm still engaged)-- Posted by Rick Lettau on Tue, May 9, 2017, at 8:28 AM

    Common: Asa Asphalt brings back work memories when I would get General Contractor estimates on projects from Ken Lambert. Is he still there?

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Tue, May 9, 2017, at 8:59 AM
  • *

    Under the new policies, did I make an error by listing a person's name?

    This message is not to offend anyone and if it does I am deeply sorry for any necessary medical/mental treatment that one incurs.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Tue, May 9, 2017, at 9:39 AM
  • Without naming names...

    Yes.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Tue, May 9, 2017, at 9:59 AM
  • *

    Medicare was automatic at 65 because the DOD and HHS made an arrangement for Medicare to be the primary source of coverage and Tricare secondary.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Tue, May 9, 2017, at 8:28 AM

    So Common, it is as I suspected, you get to collect the same medicare benefits at less than 15 years as I did after paying in for 35 years and still paying today.

    Then you have Tricare from the Military, where I get to pay for with my Supplementary Insurance.

    Nice to be a double dipper isn't it. And you are the type that likes to promote more Medicaid to help use up our money we have paid in.... for 42 years in my case. And don't let it bother you that I paid in both sides of my FICA being that I was self employed.

    Got any idea why I am not so hot on your Leftist views of what oughtabe?

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Tue, May 9, 2017, at 12:41 PM
  • “…than 15 years as I did after paying in for 35 years and still paying today.”

    I started paying Medicare in 1965 and am still paying into it now. By my calculations that’s 52 years.

    “Then you have Tricare from the Military, where I get to pay for with my Supplementary Insurance.”

    If you’d spent 25 years in the US military, you’d have Tricare too. I can’t feel too sorry for you, guess you could have done the same thing.

    And there is one correction, the 15 years was in Denver and St. Louis, another 10 was around here.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Tue, May 9, 2017, at 1:09 PM
  • "...don't let it bother you that I paid in both sides of my FICA..."

    Why should it? I paid both sides too, because the so-called "employers" share was also what I earned, except it just didn't show up on my pay stub.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Tue, May 9, 2017, at 1:14 PM
  • What you 'earned' may have shown up as a negative? :)

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Tue, May 9, 2017, at 3:02 PM
  • *

    Why should it? I paid both sides too, because the so-called "employers" share was also what I earned, except it just didn't show up on my pay stub.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Tue, May 9, 2017, at 1:14 PM

    Common: Same for all of us on Medicare and S.S. That is why we can say - I've earned it.

    This message is not to offend anyone and if it does I am deeply sorry for any necessary medical/mental treatment that one incurs.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Tue, May 9, 2017, at 4:42 PM
  • All Vets should have free Medical Care where ever they want to go from whoever they want .

    Unfortunately everyone don't have access to Tri-care and Medicare , this sounds like a "me" deal , or , "I got mine , you need to pay for everyone else who don't have theirs."

    To sit back and claim , "Well I have Tri-Care and Medicare so I don't count but you all do" is such a double standard and selfish it's almost ridiculous .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Tue, May 9, 2017, at 5:47 PM
  • I wonder if the Socialist pitch in $20 or $25 bucks a month to the local school for the kids who don't have lunch money so they can eat too .

    What's the odds..

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Tue, May 9, 2017, at 7:03 PM
  • *

    What's the odds..

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Tue, May 9, 2017, at 7:03 PM

    Not good.... the Socialists are good at spending the money of others.

    Anybody remember the Secretary of the Treasury I believe it was under Obama's first term was a tax cheat. Remember the Democratic leader Tom Daschle, nominated for a leadership post by Obama. Had to withdraw because of non payment of his taxes. Something North of a hundred grand I believe.

    Yes Democrats and Socialists are good on spending money, but it is your money they like to spend to theirs.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Tue, May 9, 2017, at 8:47 PM
  • *

    "to theirs."

    Dang, should be 'not theirs' in last line.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Tue, May 9, 2017, at 8:48 PM
  • Yes Democrats and Socialists are good on spending money, but it is your money they like to spend to theirs. -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Tue, May 9, 2017, at 8:47 PM

    And "Air Claire" McCaskill who failed to pay over $300,000 in taxes and fines. Yet voted to impose the largest tax increase in US history on the rest of us.

    Commie will vote for Claire for sure!

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Tue, May 9, 2017, at 9:04 PM
  • I see the paper has another headline.

    Trump abruptly axes FBI’s Comey in midst of Russia probe

    Tuesday, May 9, 2017 ~ Updated 6:55 PM

    I may read this later but looks like another AP story headline written to make us think Trump fired the guy right before he reported that Hillary won the election, Trump made a deal with Russia to ruin Hillary and now the Russians get to do what ever they want in suppression of freedom around the world.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Tue, May 9, 2017, at 9:53 PM
  • *

    "Trump abruptly axes FBI’s Comey in midst of Russia prob"

    R.W.

    And the Clinton Probe, and the Weiner Probe and Lord only knows how may other probes.

    Hasn't been a week ago yet that Hillary was screaming her head off and blaming Comey for her loosing. She of course did not wrong and was a stellar canidate. HA!

    Other Democrats were downing Comey, and now they are on Trump's backside because he fired the incompetent fool.

    Hillary may have been looking at wearing stripes by now if Comey had stuck to his job and had not assumed the incompetent AG's job and declared Hillary should not be prosecutued.

    Wonder if the Clinton Camp is getting a little apprehensive with a new head of the FBI soon to take over?

    Hard to make a Democrat happy. They are unhappy with Comey and they are unhappy with Trump for making him gone!

    It's a conspiracy, it's a conspiracy Chicken Little, the sky is falling.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Tue, May 9, 2017, at 11:07 PM
  • Trump - Growing With the Job...

    But with Comey gone, who's going to continue the investigation of the President Trump administration's ties to Russia?

    Oh yeah...

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Wed, May 10, 2017, at 6:43 AM
  • *

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Tue, May 9, 2017, at 11:07 PM

    Wheels: IMO, Trump knows that he can't please the Left Wing Nuts so he just ignores them which drives the Democrats crazy (crazier).

    This message is not to offend anyone and if it does I am deeply sorry for any necessary medical/mental treatment that one incurs.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Wed, May 10, 2017, at 6:48 AM
  • *

    But with Comey gone, who's going to continue the investigation of the President Trump administration's ties to Russia?

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Wed, May 10, 2017, at 6:43 AM

    Common: Or, now the FBI & DOJ can now investigate Hillary without the White House or Bill Clinton/Loretta Lynch pressure to sweep it under the carpet.

    This message is not to offend anyone and if it does I am deeply sorry for any necessary medical/mental treatment that one incurs.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Wed, May 10, 2017, at 6:57 AM
  • Congress will continue it's investigation and so will the Intelligence Organizations including the CIA . The Clapper dude already has said there was no sign of collusion . The Yates woman testified that Obama warned Trump 2 days after the election Flynn could easily be black mailed or compromised , don't trust Flynn . What Yates didn't say is Obama hired Flynn too , oopps ...

    This all goes full circle back to the e-mails , without the e-mails not of this crap would have came up . I smell a double standard , Comey , Flynn , and how many others have been disqualified so far but all Hillary gets is a "used very poor judgement" after who knows how many Government classified documents were compromised .

    I see a total out of control entire Washington DC , it's a freaking nut house . The USA doesn't need enemies , itself is it's very best .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Wed, May 10, 2017, at 7:03 AM
  • "You know where it ends , yo , it usually depends on where you start"

    ~~ Everlasts

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Wed, May 10, 2017, at 7:07 AM
  • "...after who knows how many Government classified documents were compromised."

    Good point. Have you ever seem a copy single document that was "compromised?"

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Wed, May 10, 2017, at 7:25 AM
  • Rick Lettau

    Well , since Hillary said , "I'm sorry , I made a mistake" , I'd say 1,000's of them .

    After Hillary claimed the State Dept. did not train her the correct usage of e-mail flagged with a "C" , I'd say 1,000's of them .

    How about you ?

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Wed, May 10, 2017, at 7:38 AM
  • *

    Good point. Have you ever seem a copy single document that was "compromised?"

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Wed, May 10, 2017, at 7:25 AM

    Common: If those hacked/leaked documents were classified "secret" or higher they can't be released to the public....so no I haven't seen such documents.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Wed, May 10, 2017, at 7:44 AM
  • Rick Lettau

    Any way you want to slice it , Capital Hill is totally out of control .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Wed, May 10, 2017, at 7:50 AM
  • My opinion is that there were very few, if any, e-mails that were actually verbatim copies of a classified document.

    Director Comey’s report specifically stated that the extreme carelessness was involved in “…both sending e-mails about those matters and receiving e-mails from others about the same matters.”

    E-mailing about classified matters is not the same as releasing classified information.

    I also believe that there were numerous e-mails about classified information where the information had previously been declassified but not marked as such.

    For Comey to say that "no reasonable prosecutor" would pursue this, was probably because he had no hard, "smoking gun" evidence.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Wed, May 10, 2017, at 7:53 AM
  • "...so no I haven't seen such documents."

    Right. If a "classified" subject has been compromised, that would mean that it's no longer "classified."

    Also, actual classified documents are normally required to have declassification instructions and schedules.

    There must be at least one instance of a document having a legitimate declassification date, so that the investigators could show the "secret" document (now down graded to unclassified) and the companion e-mail with the exact same text.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Wed, May 10, 2017, at 8:04 AM
  • Rick Lettau

    My opinion , this might have been one reason for Comey's firing , his statement "no reasonable prosecutor" . Just me , this should have been a Prosecutor's call , not his , not on such a high profile case .

    Having said this , Comey's days were number and I believe he knew they were numbered . Both sides of the aisle wanted him gone at one time or another , it was just a matter of when .

    I do have to admit Trump's timing isn't the best , he's meeting with Russian big-wigs today , he does shoot himself in the foot a lot , almost to the point of Obamishness .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Wed, May 10, 2017, at 8:07 AM
  • Right. If a "classified" subject has been compromised, that would mean that it's no longer "classified."

    .............

    Disagree . If certain classified Government documents were compromised by certain Foreign Nations , they would not be de-classified to the USA public , not as a rule .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Wed, May 10, 2017, at 8:10 AM
  • *

    If a "classified" subject has been compromised, that would mean that it's no longer "classified."Posted by Rick Lettau on Wed, May 10, 2017, at 8:04 AM

    Common: I recall during one of the Comey's Congressional hearings that a hacked Hillary email couldn't be shown because it was still classified according to Comey. But hey it's Hillary Clinton's investigation paid off by Bill/Lynch airport payoff meeting.

    This message is not to offend anyone and if it does I am deeply sorry for any necessary medical/mental treatment that one incurs.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Wed, May 10, 2017, at 8:19 AM
  • "...a hacked Hillary email couldn't be shown..."

    That seems to imply that there was only one. You'd think out of the supposed "thousands" they could have found at least one to show as an example.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Wed, May 10, 2017, at 8:28 AM
  • *

    That seems to imply that there was only one. You'd think out of the supposed "thousands" they could have found at least one to show as an example.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Wed, May 10, 2017, at 8:28 AM

    Common: Did I say that there were only one hacked Hillary email - your reading comprehension needs improving. Google Comey's July 2016 TV "special" for his statement of multiple classified emails. Good try to deflect.

    This message is not to offend anyone and if it does I am deeply sorry for any necessary medical/mental treatment that one incurs.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Wed, May 10, 2017, at 8:39 AM
  • *

    But with Comey gone, who's going to continue the investigation of the President Trump administration's ties to Russia?

    Oh yeah...

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Wed, May 10, 2017, at 6:43 AM

    Common, did you start typing before you started thinking this morning?

    Trump didn't disband the FBI.

    You haven't seen one classified and compromised email.... no kidding, I wonder why?

    Something else you haven't seen... one single shred of evidence there was any collusion with the Russians on Trump's part.

    Guess the FBI can take the day off, their work is finished.

    Oh wait, there is still the Weiner thing.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Wed, May 10, 2017, at 8:47 AM
  • My opinion is that there were very few, if any, e-mails that were actually verbatim copies of a classified document. -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Wed, May 10, 2017, at 7:53 AM

    Now there's some sound, unbiased evidence. Your opinion? On classified emails and documents?

    Wow. Based on your opinion of what was on Hillary's server maybe I should have voted for her?

    Your opinion is what convinced me to vote against her. You're losing elections bad for the past 6 years. Gonna take more than "your opinion" around here.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Wed, May 10, 2017, at 9:01 AM
  • "....didn't disband the FBI..."

    Of course not, but dumping Comey allows him to put one of his own "followers" in place.

    "Crazy Christie" or "Goofy Gowdy" come to mind.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Wed, May 10, 2017, at 9:42 AM
  • Hopefully he won't replace Comey with Communist Van Jones, airport tarmac Loretta Lynch or Gen. Flynn who Obama hired, fired and then left his top secret security clearance in place.

    Trump certainly could do no worse than your messiah.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Wed, May 10, 2017, at 9:46 AM
  • Comey got too full of himself and started injecting himself into politics. FBI is not supposed to be political.

    The biggest mistake Trump made was not firing him at the beginning. Common's knee jerk reaction is to believe the far left wing conspiracy theories thrown out by sickschumer and Fineslime.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Wed, May 10, 2017, at 10:27 AM
  • I agree , Trump should have fired Comey from the get go , the timing is what looks bad . Comey was in a no win situation , both sides wanted him gone but he put himself in that position anyway .

    Any way you slice it , Capital Hill is totally out of control . For example , speaking of a question in timing , Obama claimed he told Putin to knock off the hacking in Oct of 2016 or there would be consequences . Well , the consequences didn't happened until right after Christmas of 2016 when the Russians were kicked off Long Island , just a day or so before Flynn's notorious down fall meeting with the Russian Ambassador . How's that for timing ?

    Yates warned the White House about Flynn so Trump fired Yates and kept Flynn until the breaking news hit the media , then he fired Flynn .

    Bill Clinton is having private chit chats with Lynch on a tarmac while his wife is campaigning for President , his wife is losing Government document e-mails by the 1,000's .

    Obama has the USA divided into Red or Blue States , it's no longer the United States .

    Trump has his family as staff -- who run his business affairs -- instead of Independent and an unbias staff .

    It's a freakin' zoo .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Wed, May 10, 2017, at 11:49 AM
  • Timing like this doesn't help Trump..at all..what in the hell is he thinking ?

    .................

    With Awkward Timing, Trump Meets Top Russian Official

    WASHINGTON — What a day for President Trump’s first face-to-face meeting with a top Russian official.

    Only hours after dismissing James B. Comey as director of the F.B.I., amid an investigation into the Trump campaign’s contacts with Russian officials, the president met with Russia’s foreign minister, Sergey V. Lavrov, at the White House. It is the only item on the president’s public schedule for Wednesday.

    https://www.nytimes.com/2017/05/10/world/europe/trump-russia-foreign-minister-se...

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Wed, May 10, 2017, at 12:12 PM
  • *

    Ask Commie Rick,

    I bet he knows why Trump chose the moment to fire him.

    Heck, I'll bet Putin called Trump and said be sure to have Comey gone before my man gets there..

    Couldn't have anything to do with the recommendations Trump was getting to get rid of Comey.

    As far as timing goes, think about this for a moment..... what if Trump waited until this evening to fire Comey, right after the Russian Diplomat leaves, or even day after tomorrow, or next month, what would the unhappy Democrats make out of that one? They were happy if Comey would go away a week ago now they are agonizing over his dismissal. Anybody but me think the Democrats and a segment of the Republicans will be unhappy with anything Trump does.

    I think a lot of their distress comes from the fact that he doesn't need their money so it is going to be tough to buy him. They are worried, it is as simple as that, and it is not about our nation, it is about their own backsides.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Wed, May 10, 2017, at 1:04 PM
  • I'm thinking I'd reschedule today's meeting .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Wed, May 10, 2017, at 1:16 PM
  • *

    I'm thinking I'd reschedule today's meeting .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Wed, May 10, 2017, at 1:16 PM

    Probably would have been a good idea, but don't look for Trump to do the expected. At least he will take most of the advice given by his cabinet members and appointees.

    It certainly wouldn't be an issue with Obama in office. He would have stood on one foot and the other and thought about it until nobody remembered Comey's name.... or given Comey an appointment to another office in government and hid him for a while like they did with the gal from the IRS in that scandal long ago. I think they might have finally got her in the end anyway.

    It's unlikely we will see any more of Comey in the government until well after Trump is gone and forgotten.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Wed, May 10, 2017, at 1:37 PM
  • *

    I saw this little survey wanting to know what I thought about Trump firing Comey.......

    What took him so long?

    So he finally listened to Democrats?

    I hope Hillary is getting worried

    But the Russians! The Russians!

    Good decision but clumsy execution

    I didn't take the survey, there was no place to add extra lines nor was there one stating all of the above.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Wed, May 10, 2017, at 2:09 PM
  • I took a phone survey last week First Question was, Would you take our survey? answer was No!

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Wed, May 10, 2017, at 5:43 PM
  • *

    My advice for giving info to survey takers is to make negative comments about the product/place/ or if it's about a political person to say the opposite from what the survey is asking about....this will put your phone number on the don't brother calling list.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Wed, May 10, 2017, at 6:47 PM
  • *

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Wed, May 10, 2017, at 5:43 PM

    Dang R.W., you must be getting old and crochety. We need to get MissMe'L in here to straighten you out. 😉

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Wed, May 10, 2017, at 6:44 PM

    And I must be getting old and senile, I answered it on the wrong thread. 😞

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Wed, May 10, 2017, at 6:50 PM
  • *

    I have been catching up on the comments and came across this one.

    For one , it's an example of his Racist ideology , why would he label the Peoples into their Race ? For two , if he is really sincere , he should make speeches to oppose such labels as "African/Americans" and "Native/Americans" or "Latino/Americans" or "white supremist" . He should make it a point to say everyone in the United States of America are People .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, May 8, 2017, at 8:51 AM

    I don't think it is racist to mention different races. When you are speaking of a certain race you have to identify the race or no one knows who you are referring to. If you just say people it makes no sense unless you say something stupid like "The ones that live on a reservation".

    What I find offensive is those who claim heritage that they are not. This happens way too much with Native Americans. People want to have Indian heritage. Most often they don't but they go around lying about it anyway. It is wrong and I believe Native Americans don't like it either. They are proud of their heritage and have had to put up with prejudice and their lives are hard. Then you have Wahoos who think it is cool to latch on and act like they have any idea what it is like to grow up and live on a reservation and to be treated like they are. I believe that they would seriously stomp someone like that if they caught them.

    Just saying!

    -- Posted by Karen Jones on Wed, May 10, 2017, at 7:32 PM
  • KJ, Elizabeth Warren comes to mind claiming she is Native American to get subsidy from government for college.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Wed, May 10, 2017, at 8:27 PM
  • Chuck Schumer made several comments today. Why doesn't anyone push back when he acts as if represents the American people demanding Special prosecutors, special committees, and closed door classified sessions of the senate. He was elected to represent the leftists in NYC that put him in office. He has one goal in mind; destroy Trump make himself more important with wealthy democrat donors.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Wed, May 10, 2017, at 8:42 PM
  • Benghazi attack and Hillary's e-mails

    "Witch hunts!"

    ~~ Democrats

    ..............

    Trump election and Comey firing

    "Witch hunts!"

    ~~ Republicans

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, May 11, 2017, at 4:41 AM
  • Speaking of Trump and treason :

    Oct 2016 , Obama told Putin to knock off the hacking or there would be consequences . Those consequences didn't occur until after Christmas 2016 when the Russian Embassy spies were expelled from Long Island , NY .

    That would be 3 months Russian spies were allowed to live on mainland USA . That would be treason .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, May 11, 2017, at 4:57 AM
  • "...claiming she is Native American to get subsidy..."

    There's actually no proof of that, from what I've read. But she was from the capital of "Indian Territory" so it's certainly possible that one of her Great-Great-Great Grandparents was Native America.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Thu, May 11, 2017, at 7:03 AM
  • “…3 months Russian spies were allowed to live on mainland USA . That would be treason.”

    No it would not. There was no concrete proof of any 3 “spies.” This is what really happened….

    “The response, unveiled just weeks before President Obama leaves office, culminates months of internal debate over how to react to Russia’s election-year provocations. In recent months, the FBI and CIA have concluded that Russia intervened repeatedly in the 2016 election, leaking damaging information in an attempt to undermine the electoral process and help Donald Trump take the White House.”

    “The new measures include sanctions on two Russian intelligence agencies, three companies that are believed to have provided support for government cyber operations, and four Russian cyber officials. The two agencies named are the GRU, Russia’s military spy service, and the civilian spy agency FSB, a successor to the KGB.

    “The administration has also ordered 35 Russian operatives to leave the United States and will shut down Russian-owned facilities on Maryland’s Eastern Shore and on Long Island in New York believed to have been used for intelligence purposes.”

    https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/national-security/obama-administration-anno...

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

    Speaking of treason…

    Keep in mind that Putin never implemented any of the customary “retaliation” by expelling and equal or greater number of Americans from Russia.

    Could this have been because the incoming Trump administration said something like, “Tell Vlad that we’ll have more flexibility in taking off the sanctions on Russia after inauguration.”

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Thu, May 11, 2017, at 7:18 AM
  • “[President] Obama went on a rampage …”

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, May 8, 2017, at 8:51 AM

    It really was not much of a “rampage.” I'm just surprised that you appear not to have read the entire speech.

    “MARCH 3, 2017 —Since leaving office, former President Barack Obama has stayed largely out of the public eye. In May, however, he will be invited back into the spotlight to receive an award for his political service.

    “On Thursday, the John F. Kennedy Library Foundation announced that Mr. Obama would be the 2017 recipient of its John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage award. Obama is being recognized for a number of principled stances he took as president, including his action on climate change, expansion of health care under the Affordable Care Act, and work to restore diplomatic relations with Cuba.

    “Obama is not the only former president to receive the award. Gerald Ford was selected in 2001 for his controversial decision to pardon Richard Nixon, while George H.W. Bush’s decision to roll back his campaign pledge of “No More Taxes” and work across party lines to reduce the deficit made him the 2014 pick.

    “But why is Obama being recognized so much sooner after leaving office than other presidents? The selection committee was trying to “do something different this year” as a way to honor the centenary of Kennedy’s birth, foundation selection committee chairman Al Hunt, a Bloomberg columnist, told BuzzFeed News. Choosing Obama, whom they see as carrying on Kennedy’s legacy, fit the bill.

    “The selection is, perhaps, not surprising: Obama is already being recognized as a successful president. He enjoyed high approval ratings as his second term drew to an end, and last month debuted at #12 on C-SPAN’s presidential rankings, which rate presidents on leadership qualities ranging from economic management to moral authority.”

    http://www.csmonitor.com/USA/2017/0303/Obama-to-receive-2017-Profile-in-Courage-...

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Thu, May 11, 2017, at 7:41 AM
  • Rick Lettau

    I knew you'd have excuses which made sense to you .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, May 11, 2017, at 7:47 AM
  • "Indian Territory"

    "Territory"? Say again ?

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, May 11, 2017, at 7:49 AM
  • "Native American" ? There is no such thing as a Native American .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, May 11, 2017, at 7:50 AM
  • "Obama is already being recognized as a successful president"

    I just threw up a little.

    -- Posted by Donna Runnels on Thu, May 11, 2017, at 7:53 AM
  • *

    "Obama is already being recognized as a successful president"

    I just threw up a little.

    -- Posted by Donna Runnels on Thu, May 11, 2017, at 7:53 AM

    Just consider the source Ms. Runnels.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Thu, May 11, 2017, at 8:53 AM
  • "...have excuses..."

    What excuses?

    "Territory"? Say again?"

    That's what a large part of what's now Oklahoma was called. Thought you'd be aware of that.

    "There is no such thing as a Native American."

    Of course there is. Any peoples inhabiting a continent or parts thereof for more than 10,000 years are permitted to be called "native." America just happens to be what this continent is called now.

    Humans inhabited these lands for over 15,000 (or 150,000 per some theories) years crossing from Asia. Of course you could subscribe to the possibility that Europeans crossed via Greenland first.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Thu, May 11, 2017, at 9:01 AM
  • "Just consider the source..."

    What is it that you know about Ms. Powell, a staff writer for the Christian Science Monitor?

    Or for that matter, what do you know about the selection process for the JFK Profiles in Courage Award?

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Thu, May 11, 2017, at 9:07 AM
  • *

    "What is it that you know about Ms. Powell, a staff writer for the Christian Science Monitor?"

    Nothing, what makes her an unimpeachable source?

    "Or for that matter, what do you know about the selection process for the JFK Profiles in Courage Award?"

    I know you're not a part of it, so what makes you an authority on the subject?

    Something I am sure of, a large part of your knowledge base and what you post are nothing more than reworded propaganda from Democratic talking points. Like yesterday's where we're against firing Comey when only a week ago we were for it.

    You're a joke.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Thu, May 11, 2017, at 9:25 AM
  • "That's what a large part of what's now Oklahoma was called. Thought you'd be aware of that."

    Below you will find the complete map of Oklahoman Indian Sovereign Nation map .

    Just so you'll be aware of that .

    https://www.bing.com/images/search?view=detailV2&ccid=YhQHkj%2bk&id=8863671FECC3...

    ...................

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, May 11, 2017, at 10:21 AM
  • PPACA news

    "If you like your Insurance you can keep it . Period ."

    ~~ Barack Obama

    ...............

    Aetna says it won't participate in any Obamacare exchanges

    While Republicans rewrite the Affordable Care Act in Washington, the immediate future of the law has grown hazier with the nation's third-largest health insurer saying that it will completely divorce itself from state-based insurance exchanges.

    Aetna says it won't sell individual coverage in Nebraska and Delaware next year after projecting a $200 million loss this year. The insurer had already pulled out of several states after losing about $450 million in 2016.

    The exchanges are a pillar of the federal law because they allow millions of people to buy coverage with help from income-based tax credits. But insurers like Humana, and now Aetna, have been fleeing that market. Others like the Blue Cross-Blue Shield carrier Anthem say they are wary of returning without guarantees of at least one key financial support.

    Every exchange had at least one insurer offering coverage for 2017, but a growing number were down to only one. Insurance experts expect holes to develop in 2018 with the coverage growing so thin. Customers may be able to find individual insurance coverage off the exchanges, but those marketplaces offer the only way for people to get tax credits to help pay the premium.

    http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/ct-aetna-obamacare-exchanges-20170511-sto...

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, May 11, 2017, at 10:28 AM
  • Just consider the source Ms. Runnels. -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Thu, May 11, 2017, at 8:53 AM

    ===

    "IN QUALITY OR IN CLASS, I’d say it’s right up there with the guy that put a figure of Christ in a jar of urine and insanely called it art.

    The “cartoon” is EQUALLY obscene, pornographic, detached from reality, and devoid of any decency. -- Posted by commonsensematters on Sat, Apr 23, 2016, at 11:43 AM

    ===

    Definitely consider the source. Insulting Christ is equally obscene and pornographic as insulting Barack Obama.

    Says all you need to know about the last 10 years of Mr. Lettau's hyper-exaggerated claims of Obama's greatness.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Thu, May 11, 2017, at 10:30 AM
  • -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, May 11, 2017, at 10:31 AM
  • "There is no such thing as a Native American."

    Of course there is. Any peoples inhabiting a continent or parts thereof for more than 10,000 years are permitted to be called "native." America just happens to be what this continent is called now.

    Humans inhabited these lands for over 15,000 (or 150,000 per some theories) years crossing from Asia. Of course you could subscribe to the possibility that Europeans crossed via Greenland first.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Thu, May 11, 2017, at 9:01 AM

    Of course there aren't . We are simply the Peoples , we do not need a label such as 'African/American' , 'Asia/American' , 'Latino/American' .

    We are People . Period .

    Just so you are aware of that .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, May 11, 2017, at 10:34 AM
  • Todays "Liberals" crack me up .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, May 11, 2017, at 10:35 AM
  • fake news hmmmmm

    ................

    The Washington Post issued a strange correction about Spicer hiding in the White House bushes

    The Washington Post on Wednesday issued a strange correction that immediately went viral about White House press secretary Sean Spicer's whereabouts after President Donald Trump fired FBI Director James Comey.

    The article said Spicer was forced to huddle with his team in the bushes to develop an on-the-fly strategy for addressing reporters.

    Shortly after the article was published, The Post added a correction saying Spicer was "among," not "in," the bushes:

    "EDITOR'S NOTE: This story has been updated to more precisely describe White House press secretary Sean Spicer's location late Tuesday night in the minutes before he briefed reporters. Spicer huddled with his staff among bushes near television sets on the White House grounds, not 'in the bushes,' as the story originally stated."

    http://www.businessinsider.com/washington-post-correction-spicer-white-house-bus...

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, May 11, 2017, at 10:53 AM
  • Rick Lettau

    ..btw.. The USA Government made more than 370 ratified , but un-honored treaties , with the Peoples that helped the USA expand its territory and led to many broken promises made to the Peoples . Not 1 was Honored by the Obama Administration , not 1 . He traveled the world and the seven seas but not once did he have time for a sit down , not once ....

    Just so you are aware of that .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, May 11, 2017, at 11:25 AM
  • Maybe a reason why that Wall could be a good idea....

    .......................

    MX second to Syria for deadly conflict: survey

    Mexico recorded 23,000 homicides attributed to the ongoing drug war in 2016, making it the world’s second deadliest conflict zone only behind Syria, according to the annual Armed Conflict Survey released yesterday by the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS).

    High rates of homicide were also recorded in the “Northern Triangle” (Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador) of Central America, but while those countries recorded modest improvements in 2016, Mexico did not.

    Although the other countries that make up the top four — Syria (50,000 deaths in 2016), Iraq (17,000) and Afghanistan (16,000) — have received prominent coverage by international news media, Mexico has attracted much less attention.

    http://mexiconewsdaily.com/news/mx-second-to-syria-for-deadly-conflict-survey/

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, May 11, 2017, at 11:31 AM
  • *

    Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, May 11, 2017, at 10:34 AM

    I posted that comment for a reason. Objects in the mirror are closer than they appear.

    -- Posted by Karen Jones on Thu, May 11, 2017, at 12:23 PM
  • “Something I am sure of….”

    …is that you appear to be more than a bit confused on numerous issues. For one, you have no concept nor appreciation for my “knowledge base.” My guess is that your construal of what I contribute is that if it doesn’t comply with, or correspond exactly to, conservative dogma and fundamentalism, it can only be a “democratic talking point.”

    Not being a member of the democratic party, and having no idea what “talking points” you’re referring to, I can only conclude that your own “knowledge base” is severely limited to whatever Limbaugh/Hannity and the Fox opinion channel tells you to believe.

    My own sources include newspapers, magazines, radio, television and the internet. I have no objection to reading or listening to differing opinions, and I do more than enough research on my own, to be able to make up my own mind on issues.

    A good example of this is a few days ago when I was asked what I thought the democratic position of taxes was. What I answered was exactly what I thought, and I have no idea what the “official” democratic party position is.

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

    As for the other questions…

    “…what makes her an unimpeachable source?”

    Nowhere did I, or anyone for that matter, make that claim. The paper is a reliable and non-partisan publication which a valid, useful source for establishing informed opinions.

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

    “…so what makes you an authority on the subject?”

    Again, nowhere was that claim made. For your information, both Presidents George H.W. Bush and Gerald Ford were previous recipients, but feel free to look it up yourself. Here’s some help…

    https://www.jfklibrary.org/Events-and-Awards/Profile-in-Courage-Award/About-the-...

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Thu, May 11, 2017, at 12:56 PM
  • For one, you have no concept nor appreciation for my “knowledge base.” -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Thu, May 11, 2017, at 12:56 PM

    ===

    "IN QUALITY OR IN CLASS, I’d say it’s right up there with the guy that put a figure of Christ in a jar of urine and insanely called it art.

    The “cartoon” is EQUALLY obscene, pornographic, detached from reality, and devoid of any decency. -- Posted by commonsensematters on Sat, Apr 23, 2016, at 11:43 AM

    ===

    Mr. Lettau, your knowledge "base" is well known.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Thu, May 11, 2017, at 1:02 PM
  • "....but not once did he have time for a sit down , not once ...."

    Appears that you don't get out much.

    Obama Hosts Conference for Native American Leaders

    • By SUNLEN MILLER

    WASHINGTON, Nov. 5, 2009

    “President Obama is scheduled to make good today on his campaign promise to host a White House Tribal Nations Conference.

    Leaders from 564 federally recognized tribes are expected to come to the Department of the Interior for an all-day forum, where they will meet directly with the president and representatives from the administration. The president is scheduled to deliver opening remarks in the morning and closing remarks in the afternoon.

    http://abcnews.go.com/Politics/president-obama-hosts-conference-native-american-...

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

    As Obama makes rare presidential visit to Indian reservation, past U.S. betrayals loom…

    By Katie Zezima June 13, 2014

    Many tribal leaders say Obama has done more in six years for Native Americans than all of his predecessors combined. The administration has given land back to tribes and worked one-on-one with tribal governments, and it is cracking down on crime in Indian Country.

    https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/obama-to-make-rare-presidential-visit-to...

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

    Hundreds of Native American leaders meet at the White House

    Representatives of the US's 5 million Native Americans bring grievances to President Obama

    President Barack Obama will address the Tribal Nations Conference on Wednesday

    By David Lawler, Washington

    7:00AM GMT 03 Dec 2014

    Hundreds of Native American leaders will gather at the White House on Wednesday for the Tribal Nations Conference, hosted by President Barack Obama.

    They include representatives from each of the 566 native "nations" scattered throughout the United States, to which a total of 5 million Americans belong.

    “The leaders bring with them grievances ranging from rampant unemployment on reservations, to high rates of violent crime, to the failing schools which see nearly one-third of native students drop out without a diploma.

    Education is Mr Obama's primary focus for the summit, which will also be attended by several members of his cabinet.

    He has also spoken frequently about the importance of improving what has historically been a combative relationship between tribes and the federal government.

    “He became only the fourth US president to visit an Indian reservation when he travelled in June to the Standing Rock Sioux reservation in North Dakota, where he said tribes should be given more autonomy to manage their own affairs.

    "I know that throughout history, the United States often didn't give the nation-to-nation relationship the respect that it deserved" said Mr Obama, "so I promised when I ran to be a president who honours our sacred trust, and who respects your sovereignty."

    http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/northamerica/usa/11269533/Hundreds-of-...

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Thu, May 11, 2017, at 1:10 PM
  • My own sources include newspapers, magazines, radio, television and the internet. -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Thu, May 11, 2017, at 12:56 PM

    And apparently Rush Limbaugh. You have quoted Rush Limbaugh on these threads more than anyone in the past 10 years.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Thu, May 11, 2017, at 1:13 PM
  • *

    Doug,

    Regards Common, I wouldn't know where to begin on that litany.

    So I will leave it at this and call it the rich as the most polite way I know to describe all of that.

    So far as Commie's reference to me getting my information from Mr Limbaugh, I have told him I haven't listened to Limbaugh in years.

    As you stated he quotes Limbaugh more than any other poster on here. I suggest he is an avid listener of Limbaugh and from a practical standpoint, between the DNC and Limbaugh is where he gets most of his material. With Limbaugh it is easy... if Limbaugh is for it Commie has to be against it.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Thu, May 11, 2017, at 2:03 PM
  • *

    "So I will leave it at this and call it the rich"

    Bless auto correct.... that should read, 'So I will leave it at this and call it rhetoric'

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Thu, May 11, 2017, at 2:08 PM
  • Which Treaty was Ratified ?

    Do you have the slightest clue what a sit down is ?

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, May 11, 2017, at 3:41 PM
  • Ralph, Rick - you two are asking questions that require real answers and no spin.

    Lettau does not deal with hard questions. Just spin and talking points. We've seen his messianic statements. It's about all one needs to know.

    I stand by my faith in God til death and after.

    He stands by his faith in Obama to death.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Thu, May 11, 2017, at 3:49 PM
  • Which Treaty was Ratified ?

    Do you have the slightest clue what a sit down is ?

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, May 11, 2017, at 3:41 PM

    Still waiting for the truth and not some buffalo shat turned out by a Obama Press Secretary or White House flunky .

    Tell me , you know all about the Peoples and Treaties , which 1 and what exactly is a sit down .

    Tell me . ..is it like "Territory" ??

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, May 11, 2017, at 3:54 PM
  • "didn't give the nation-to-nation relationship "

    Even your Boy Obama knows Nations...dammm

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, May 11, 2017, at 3:55 PM
  • *

    IMO, Native Americans are those born in the United States after the Revolutionary War. Anyone before then would be Colonists subjects of the British King. Those here before the first European migration can only be called by the name of First Peoples or Peoples.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Thu, May 11, 2017, at 4:18 PM
  • Which 1 ??

    ...............

    Agreement At Fort Berthold 1866

    Agreement with the Columbia and Colville 1883

    Agreement with the Creeks 1825

    Agreement with the Crows 1880

    Agreement with the Delawares and Wyandot 1843

    Agreement with the Five Nations

    Agreement with the Rogue River 1853

    Agreement with the Sioux of Various Tribes 1882

    Agreement with the Sisseton and Wahpeton Bands of Sioux Indians 1872

    Amended Agreement With Certain Sioux Indians 1873

    Treaties

    The Manitoulin Island Treaty - Great Manitoulin Island 1862

    The Qu'appelle Treaty, Or Number Four

    Treaties 1 and 2 between her Majesty the Queen and the Chippewa and Cree Indians of Manitoba and Country Adjacent with Adhesions

    Treaty 3 Between Her Majesty The Queen And The Saulteaux Tribe Of The Ojibbeway Indians At The Northwest Angle On The Lake Of The Woods With Adhesions

    Treaty 4 Between Her Majesty The Queen And The Cree And Saulteaux Tribes Of Indians At The Qu'appelle And Fort Ellice

    Treaty 5 Between Her Majesty The Queen And The Saulteaux And Swampy Cree Tribes Of Indians At Beren's River And Norway House With Adhesions

    Quinault Treaty, 1856

    The Robinson Treaties

    The Robinson Treaties - Toronto, 24th September, 1850

    The Robinson Treaty with the Ojibewa Indians of Lake Huron conveying certain lands to the Crown 1850

    The Robinson Treaty with the Ojibewa Indians of Lake Superior conveying certain lands to the Crown 1850

    The Selkirk Treaty, Land Description

    The Stone Fort And Manitoba Post Treaties Numbers One And Two

    The Treaties At Forts Carlton And Pitt

    Treaty between his Majesty the King and the Mississauga Indians of Rice Lake, Mud Lake, Scugog Lake and Alderville 1923

    Treaty between his Majesty the King and the Chippewa Indians of Christian Island, Georgina Island and Rama 1923

    Treaty of Medicine Creek

    Treaty of Neah Bay

    Treaty Number 3; Or The North-West Angle Treaty - Privy Council

    Treaty Number 5; The Winnipeg Treaty

    Treaty Number 7; Or The Blackfeet Treaty

    Treaty of Olympia 1856

    Treaty of Point Elliott 1855

    Treaty of Point No Point 1855

    Treaty of Walla Walla 1855

    Treaty with the Apache 1852

    Treaty with the Appalachicola Band 1832

    Treaty with the Appalachicola Band 1833

    Treaty with the Arapaho and Cheyenne 1861

    Treaty with the Arikara Tribe 1825

    Treaty with the Belantse-Etoa Or Minitaree 1825

    Treaty with the Blackfeet 1855

    Treaty with the Caddo 1835

    Treaty with the Chasta etc 1854

    Treaty with the Cherokee 1785

    Treaty with the Cherokee 1791

    Treaty with the Cherokee 1794

    Treaty with the Cherokee 1798

    Treaty with the Cherokee 1804

    Treaty with the Cherokee October 25 1805

    Treaty with the Cherokee October 27 1805

    Treaty with the Cherokee 1806

    Treaty with the Cherokee March 22 1816

    Treaty with the Cherokee March 22nd 1816

    Treaty with the Cherokee September 14 1816

    Treaty with the Cherokee 1817

    Treaty with the Cherokee 1819

    Treaty with the Western Cherokee 1828

    Treaty with the Western Cherokee 1833

    Treaty with the Cherokee March 14 1835

    Treaty with the Cherokee December 29 1835

    Treaty with the Cherokee 1846

    Treaty with the Cherokee and Other Tribes In The Indian Territory 1865

    Treaty with the Cherokee 1866

    Treaty with the Cherokee 1868

    Treaty with the Cheyenne 1825

    Treaty with the Apache Cheyenne and Arapaho 1865

    Treaty with the Cheyenne and Arapaho 1865

    Treaty with the Cheyenne and Arapaho 1867

    Treaty with the Northern Cheyenne and Northern Arapaho 1868

    Chickasaw Peace Treaty Feeler 1782

    Treaty with the Chickasaw 1786

    Treaty with the Chickasaw 1801

    Treaty with the Chickasaw 1805

    Treaty with the Chickasaw 1816

    Treaty with the Chickasaw 1818

    Secret Journal On Negotiations of The Chickasaw Treaty of 1818

    Refusal of The Chickasaws and Choctaws To Cede Their Lands In Mississippi 1826

    Treaty with the Chickasaw 1830 - Unratified

    Treaty with the Chickasaw October 20 1832

    Treaty with the Chickasaw October 22 1832

    Treaty with the Chickasaw 1834

    Treaty with the Chickasaw 1852

    Treaty with the Chippewa etc 1808

    Treaty with the Chippewa 1819

    Treaty with the Chippewa 1820

    Treaty with the Chippewa 1826

    Treaty with the Chippewa 1827

    Treaty with the Chippewa etc 1829

    Treaty with the Chippewa 1833

    Treaty with the Chippewa 1836

    Treaty with the Chippewa January 14 1837

    Treaty with the Chippewa July 29 1837

    Treaty with the Chippewa December 20 1837

    Treaty with the Chippewa 1838

    Treaty with the Chippewa 1839

    Treaty with the Chippewa 1842

    Treaty with the Pillager Band of Chippewa Indians 1847

    Treaty with the Chippewa of The Mississippi and Lake Superior 1847

    Treaty with the Chippewa 1854

    Treaty with the Chippewa 1855

    Treaty with the Chippewa of Saginaw etc 1855

    Treaty with the Chippewa of Sault Ste. Marie 1855

    Treaty with the Chippewa etc 1859

    Treaty with the Chippewa of The Mississippi and The Pillager and Lake Winnibigoshish Bands 1863

    Treaty with the Chippewa of The Mississippi and The Pillager and Lake Winnibigoshish Bands 1864

    Treaty with the Chippewa of Saginaw, Swan Creek, and Black River 1864

    Treaty with the Chippewa - Red Lake and Pembina 1863

    Treaty with the Chippewa - Red Lake and Pembina 1864

    Treaty with the Chippewa - Bois Fort Band 1866

    Treaty with the Chippewa of The Mississippi 1867

    Treaty with the Chocktaw 1786 (also spelt as Choctaw)

    Treaty with the Chocktaw 1801

    Treaty with the Chocktaw 1802

    Treaty with the Chocktaw 1803

    Treaty with the Chocktaw 1805

    Treaty with the Chocktaw 1816

    Treaty with the Choctaw 1820

    Treaty with the Choctaw 1825

    Treaty with the Choctaw 1830

    Treaty with the Choctaw and Chickasaw 1837

    Treaty with the Choctaw and Chickasaw 1854

    Treaty with the Choctaw and Chickasaw 1855

    Treaty with the Choctaw and Chickasaw 1866

    Treaty with the Comancheetc 1835

    Treaty with the Comanche, Kiowa, and Apache 1853

    Treaty with the Comanche, Aionai, Anadarko, Caddo, etc 1846

    Treaty with the Comanche and Kiowa 1865

    Treaty with the Creeks 1790

    Treaty with the Creeks 1796

    Treaty with the Creeks 1802

    Treaty with the Creeks 1805

    Treaty with the Creeks 1814

    Treaty with the Creeks 1818

    Treaty with the Creeks January 8 1821

    Treaty with the Creeks January 8th 1821

    Treaty with the Creeks 1825

    Treaty with the Creeks 1826

    Treaty with the Creeks 1827

    Treaty with the Creeks 1832

    Treaty with the Creeks 1833

    Treaty with the Creeks 1838

    Treaty with the Creeks and Seminole 1845

    Treaty with the Creeks 1854

    Treaty with the Creeks etc 1856

    Treaty with the Creeks 1866

    Treaty with the Crow 1825

    Treaty with the Crow1868

    Treaty with the Delawares 1778

    Treaty with the Delawares 1803

    Treaty with the Delawares 1804

    Treaty with the Delawares 1805

    Treaty with the Delawares 1809

    Treaty with the Delawares 1818

    Treaty with the Delawares August 3 1829

    Treaty with the Delawares September 24 1829

    Treaty with the Delawares 1854

    Treaty with the Delawares 1860

    Treaty with the Delawares 1861

    Treaty with the Delawares 1866

    Treaty with the Dwamish, Suquamish etc 1855

    Treaty with the Eel River etc 1803

    Treaty with the Flatheads etc 1855

    Treaty with the Foxes 1815

    Treaty with the Florida Tribes of Indians 1823

    Treaty with the Iowa 1815

    Treaty with the Iowa 1824

    Treaty with the Iowa etc 1836

    Treaty with the Iowa 1837

    Treaty with the Iowa 1838

    Treaty with the Iowa 1854

    Treaty with the Kalapuya etc 1855

    Treaty with the Kansa 1815

    Treaty with the Kansa June 3 1825

    Treaty with the Kansa August 16 1825

    Treaty with the Kansa 1846

    Treaty with the Kansa 1859

    Treaty with the Kansa 1862

    Treaty with the Kaskaskia 1803

    Treaty with the Kaskaskia 1832

    Treaty with the Kaskaskia, Peoria etc 1854

    Treaty with the Kickapoo 1809

    Treaty with the Kickapoo 1815

    Treaty with the Kickapoo July 30 1819

    Treaty with the Kickapoo August 30 1819

    Treaty with the Kickapoo 1820

    Treaty with the Kickapoo of The Vermilion 1820

    Treaty with the Kickapoo 1832

    Treaty with the Kickapoo 1854

    Treaty with the Kickapoo 1862

    Treaty with the Kiowa etc 1837

    Treaty with the Kiowa, Comanche, and Apache 1867

    Treaty with the Kiowa and Comanche 1867

    Treaty with the Klamath etc 1864

    Treaty with the Makah 1815

    Treaty with the Makah 1825

    Treaty with the Makah 1855

    Treaty with the Mandan 1825

    Treaty with the Menominee 1817

    Treaty with the Menominee February 8 1831

    Treaty with the Menominee February 17 1831

    Treaty with the Menominee 1832

    Treaty with the Menominee 1836

    Treaty with the Menominee 1848

    Treaty with the Menominee 1854

    Treaty with the Menominee 1856

    Supplementary Treaty with the Miami, etc 1809

    Treaty with the Miami 1818

    Treaty with the Miami 1826

    Treaty with the Miami 1828

    Treaty with the Miami 1834

    Treaty with the Miami 1838

    Treaty with the Miami 1840

    Treaty with the Miami 1854

    Treaty with the Middle Oregon Tribes 1865

    Treaty with the Mohawk 1797

    Treaty with the Molala 1855

    Treaty with the Navaho 1849

    Treaty with the Navaho 1868

    Treaty with the New York Indians 1838

    Treaty with the Nez Perces 1855

    Treaty with the Nez Perces 1863

    Treaty with the Nez Perces 1868

    Treaty with the Nisqualli, Puyallup etc 1854

    Treaty with the Omaha 1854

    Treaty with the Omaha 1865

    Treaty with the Oneida etc 1794 (Veterans Treaty)

    Treaty with the Oneida 1838

    Treaty with the Osage 1808

    Treaty with the Osage 1815

    Treaty with the Osage 1818

    Treaty with the Osage 1822

    Treaty with the Great and Little Osage 1825

    Treaty with the Osage 1825

    Treaty with the Osage 1839

    Treaty with the Osage 1865

    Treaty with the Ottawa etc 1807

    Treaty with the Ottawa etc 1816

    Treaty with the Ottawa and Chippewa 1820

    Treaty with the Ottawa etc 1821

    Treaty with the Ottawa 1831

    Treaty with the Ottawa 1833

    Treaty with the Ottawa 1836

    Treaty with the Ottawa and Chippewa 1855

    Treaty with the Ottawa of Blanchard's Fork and Roche De Boeuf 1862

    Treaty with the Oto 1817

    Treaty with the Oto and Missouri 1825

    Treaty with the Oto and Missouri 1833

    Treaty with the Oto etc 1836

    Treaty with the Oto and Missouri 1854

    Treaty with the Confederated Oto and Missouri 1854

    Treaty with the Pawnee Marhar 1818

    Treaty with the Noisy Pawnee 1818

    Treaty with the Grande Pawnee 1818

    Treaty with the Pawnee Republic 1818

    Treaty with the Pawnee 1825

    Treaty with the Pawnee 1833

    Treaty with the Pawnee - Grand, Loups, Republicans etc 1848

    Treaty with the Pawnee 1857

    Treaty with the Peoria etc 1818

    Treaty with the Piankashaw 1805 (also spelt as Piankeshaw and Piankishaw)

    Treaty with the Piankashaw 1815

    Treaty with the Piankashaw and Wea 1832

    Treaty with the Piankeshaw 1804

    Treaty with the Piankeshaw 1818

    Treaty with the Ponca 1817

    Treaty with the Ponca 1825

    Treaty with the Ponca 1858

    Treaty with the Ponca 1865

    Treaty with the Potawatami 1815 (also spelt as Potawatomi)

    Treaty with the Potawatomi 1818

    Treaty with the Potawatomi 1826

    Treaty with the Potawatomi 1827

    Treaty with the Potawatami 1828

    Treaty with the Potawatami September 19 1832

    Treaty with the Potawatami October 20 1832

    Treaty with the Potawatomi October 26 1832

    Treaty with the Potawatomi October 27 1832

    Treaty with the Potawatomi December 4 1834

    Treaty with the Potawatomi December 10 1834

    Treaty with the Potawatomi December 16 1834

    Treaty with the Potawatomi December 17 1834

    Treaty with the Potawatomi March 26 1836

    Treaty with the Potawatomi March 29 1836

    Treaty with the Potawatomi April 11 1836

    Treaty with the Potawatomi April 22 1836

    Treaty with the Potawatomi August 5 1836

    Treaty with the Potawatomi September 20 1836

    Treaty with the Potawatomi September 22 1836

    Treaty with the Potawatomi September 23 1836

    Treaty with the Potawatomi 1837

    Treaty with the Potawatomi 1846

    Treaty with the Potawatomi 1861

    Treaty with the Potawatomi 1866

    Treaty with the Potawatomi 1867

    Treaty with the Quapaw 1818

    Treaty with the Quapaw 1824

    Treaty with the Quapaw 1833

    Treaty with the Quinaielt 1855

    Treaty with the Rogue River 1853

    Treaty with the Rogue River 1854

    Treaty with the Saux 1815 (also spelt as Sauk)

    Treaty with the Sauk 1816

    Treaty with the Sauk and Foxes 1804

    Treaty with the Sauk and Foxes 1822

    Treaty with the Sauk and Foxes 1824

    Treaty with the Sauk and Foxes 1830

    Treaty with the Sauk and Foxes 1832

    Treaty with the Sauk and Foxes September 27 1836

    Treaty with the Sauk and Foxes September 28 1836

    Treaty with the Sauk and Foxes October 21 1837

    Treaty with the Sauk and Foxes October 21st 1837

    Treaty with the Sauk and Foxes 1842

    Treaty with the Sauk and Foxes of Missouri 1854

    Treaty with the Sauk and Foxes 1859

    Treaty with the Sauk and Foxes etc 1861

    Treaty with the Sauk and Foxes 1867

    Treaty with the Seminole 1832

    Treaty with the Seminole 1833

    Treaty with the Seminole 1866

    Treaty with the Seneca 1797

    Treaty with the Seneca June 30 1802

    Treaty with the Seneca June 30th 1802

    Treaty with the Seneca 1823

    Treaty with the Seneca 1831

    Treaty with the Seneca etc 1831

    Treaty with the Seneca and Shawnee 1832

    Treaty with the Seneca 1842

    Treaty with the Seneca, Tonawanda Band 1857

    Treaty with the Seneca Mixed Seneca and Shawnee Quapaw etc 1867

    Treaty with the Shawnee 1786

    Treaty with the Shawnee 1825

    Treaty with the Shawnee 1831

    Treaty with the Shawnee 1832

    Treaty with the Shawnee 1854

    Treaty with the Eastern Shoshoni 1863

    Treaty with the Shoshoni - Goship 1863

    Treaty with the Shoshoni - Northwestern Bands 1863

    Treaty with the Western Shoshoni 1863

    Treaty with the Eastern Band Shoshoni and Bannock 1868

    Treaty with the Sioux 1805

    Treaty with the Sioux 1816

    Treaty with the Sioux of St. Peter's River 1815

    Treaty with the Sioux of The Lakes 1815

    Treaty with the Sioux etc 1825

    Treaty with the Hunkpapa Band of The Sioux 1825

    Treaty with the Sioux September 10 1836

    Treaty with the Sioux November 30 1836

    Treaty with the Sioux 1837

    Treaty with the Sioux - Mdewakanton and Wahpakoota Bands 1851

    Treaty With Fort Laramie With Sioux etc 1851

    Treaty with the Sioux - Sisseton and Wahpeton Bands 1851

    Treaty with the Sioux June 19 1858

    Treaty with the Sioux June 19th 1858

    Treaty with the Sioux - Lower Brule Band 1865

    Treaty with the Sioux - Miniconjou Band 1865

    Treaty with the Sioux - Two-Kettle Band 1865

    Treaty with the Blackfeet Sioux 1865

    Treaty with the Sioux - Sans Arcs Band 1865

    Treaty with the Sioux - Hunkpapa Band 1865

    Treaty with the Sioux - Yanktonai Band 1865

    Treaty with the Sioux - Upper Yanktonai Band 1865

    Treaty with the Sioux - Oglala Band - 1865

    Treaty with the Sioux - Sisseton and Wahpeton Bands 1867

    Treaty with the Sioux Brule, Oglala, Miniconjou, Yanktonai, Hunkpapa, Blackfeet, Cuthead, Two Kettle, Sans Arcs, Santee and Arapaho 1868

    Treaty with the Seven Nations of Canada 1796

    Treaty with the Sioune and Oglala Tribes 1825

    Treaty with the Six Nations 1784 (Treaty of Fort Stanwix)

    Treaty with the Six Nations 1789 (Treaty of Fort Harmar)

    Treaty with the Six Nations 1794 (Treaty of Canandaigua)

    Treaty with the S'klallam 1855

    Treaty with the Snake 1865

    Treaty with the Stockbridge and Munsee 1839

    Treaty with the Stockbridge and Munsee 1856

    Treaty with the Stockbridge 1848

    Treaty with the Teton 1815

    Treaty with the Teton etc. Sioux 1825

    Treaty with the Tribes of Middle Oregon 1855

    Treaty with the Umpqua-Cow Creek Band 1853

    Treaty with the Umpqua and Kalapuya 1854

    Treaty with the Utah 1849

    Treaty with the Utah - Tabeguache Band 1863

    Treaty with the Ute 1868

    Treaty with the Wallawalla, Cayuse 1855

    Treaty with the Wea 1809

    Treaty with the Wea 1818

    Treaty with the Wea and Kickapoo 1816

    Treaty with the Wea 1820

    Treaty with the Winnebago 1816

    Treaty with the Winnebago 1828

    Treaty with the Winnebago 1829

    Treaty with the Winnebago 1832

    Treaty with the Winnebago 1837

    Treaty with the Winnebago 1846

    Treaty with the Winnebago 1855

    Treaty with the Winnebago 1859

    Treaty with the Winnebago 1865

    Treaty with the Wyandot etc 1785

    Treaty with the Wyandot etc 1789

    Treaty with the Wyandot etc 1795

    Treaty with the Wyandot etc 1805

    Treaty with the Wyandot etc 1814

    Treaty with the Wyandot etc 1815

    Treaty with the Wyandot etc 1817

    Treaty with the Wyandot etc 1818

    Treaty with the Wyandot 1818

    Treaty with the Wyandot 1832

    Treaty with the Wyandot 1836

    Treaty with the Wyandot 1842

    Treaty with the Wyandot 1850

    Treaty with the Wyandot 1855

    Treaty with the Yakama 1855

    Treaty with the Yankton Sioux 1815

    Treaty with the Yankton Sioux 1837

    Treaty with the Yankton Sioux 1858

    George Washington

    Fort Laramie Treaty 1868

    Treaty of Greenville 1795

    Treaty of The Holston, July 2, 1794

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, May 11, 2017, at 4:36 PM
  • I got time , I'll wait ....

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, May 11, 2017, at 4:38 PM
  • *

    Rick,

    Very good job of listing those treaties, agreements or whatever they called them at the time.

    I guess I had no idea there was so many. A number doesn't look like much when compared to a list like that.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Thu, May 11, 2017, at 5:26 PM
  • "...what a sit down is?"

    A meeting where participants sit down and discuss issues with questions and answers, but in reality it is whatever you decide to call it.

    As for your list of treaties and agreements, I don't see any that were made and broken during the President Obama administration.

    Then there's this, which was during the President Obama administration, from 2014...

    "Many tribal leaders say Obama has done more in six years for Native Americans than all of his predecessors combined. The administration has given land back to tribes and worked one-on-one with tribal governments, and it is cracking down on crime in Indian Country.

    https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/...

    Guess that's why the South Dakota counties with the highest tribal populations went for President Obama in both elections.

    Perhaps you should spend more time in South Dakota.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Thu, May 11, 2017, at 6:37 PM
  • “…where to begin…”

    First, under 200 words hardly qualifies as a “litany” but that’s your call.

    Your claim to being “polite,” is very astounding and unexpected to say the least.

    My listening to Limbaugh occurs only when I happen to be travelling to or from a job site, and it’s a highly humorous break during the day. If he’s your conservative idol, you all are in deep trouble. Most of my time is laughing at his absurd conclusions. An example is his favorite silly claim of about 90 million Americans being “out of the workforce.” It’s almost as though he has no idea that this includes those 16 years old and over, so it includes high school and college students, house wives, those not needing or wanting to work and all retirees. How much sense does that make?

    In any case the opinions you've expressed about many issues mirror Limbaugh’s. Claiming you haven’t listened in years is irrelevant since his propaganda and ranting haven’t changed in years. Same old garbage, so you haven’t missed a thing.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Thu, May 11, 2017, at 7:00 PM
  • *

    "My listening to Limbaugh occurs only when I happen to be travelling to or from a job site, and it’s a highly humorous break during the day. If he’s your conservative idol, you all are in deep trouble. Most of my time is laughing at his absurd conclusions."

    Commie,

    That pretty much bears out what I said, if Limbaugh says it you know you are obligated to be against it.

    Idol? Sorry Common, there is no human being I idolize

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Thu, May 11, 2017, at 7:28 PM
  • *

    I can't believe anyone would listen to Limbaugh. I wouldn't even have my radio on that station so I never would hear it even accidentally!

    -- Posted by Karen Jones on Thu, May 11, 2017, at 8:00 PM
  • Michael Flynn

    The center of a storm is a familiar place for Flynn. His military career ended when Obama dismissed him as head of the Defense Intelligence Agency in 2014. Flynn has said he was pushed out for holding tougher views than Obama about Islamic extremism. But a former senior U.S. official said the firing was for insubordination, after Flynn failed to follow guidance from superiors.

    The son of an Army veteran of World War II and the Korean War, Flynn was commissioned as a second lieutenant in May 1981. He started in intelligence and eventually rose to senior positions, including intelligence chief for U.S. Central Command.

    Ian McCulloh, a Johns Hopkins data science specialist, became a Flynn admirer while working as an Army lieutenant colonel in Afghanistan in 2009. At the time, Flynn ran intelligence for the U.S.-led international coalition in Kabul and was pushing for more creative approaches to targeting Taliban networks, including use of data mining and social network analysis, according to McCulloh.

    "He was pushing for us to think out of the box and try to leverage technology better and innovate," McCulloh said, crediting Flynn for improving the effectiveness of U.S. targeting. "A lot of people didn't like it because it was different."

    http://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/national-international/Michael-Flynn-Fired-by-...

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, May 11, 2017, at 9:17 PM
  • Perhaps you should spend more time in South Dakota.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Thu, May 11, 2017, at 6:37 PM

    And you would know how much time I spend there in what way ?

    Which treaty did you say he honored ? I didn't ask made or broken , I asked honored , do you understand the difference ?

    Obviously you have absolutely no idea what a sit down is .

    Where ever you're getting your South Dakota propaganda is sweet , it really is , but again , pull your head out of Obama's ***....

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, May 11, 2017, at 9:23 PM
  • ..btw...it's the Sioux Nation , learn something

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Thu, May 11, 2017, at 9:24 PM
  • *

    It's TGIF day and all of the Forums Posters must be sleeping in.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 7:39 AM
  • “I asked honored, do you understand the difference?”

    “Honored” after the passage of about 150 years means doing the possible under current conditions, and that was done here…

    Treaty with the Snake 1865 or Treaty with the Snake (Northern Paiute), 1865

    The Northern Paiute peoples of the Great Basin, who lived in eastern and central Oregon and western Nevada, experienced intermittent contact with Euro American fur traders in the early decades of the nineteenth century.

    More That 500K Acres Of Land Returned To Tribes

    Oct 14, 2016 by Associated Press

    Federal officials say more than 500,000 acres have been returned to the control of tribes under the Obama administration, which made restoring tribal homelands a key part of its Indian Country policy.

    The Obama administration says it surpassed the half-million acre benchmark last week with the transfer of a 71,000-acre swath of federal land to tribal control in Nevada.

    Interior Secretary Sally Jewell says the administration's goal of returning 500,000 acres, or roughly 780 square miles, of land represented a shift from federal policy that historically resulted in U.S. tribes losing millions of acres of land over hundreds of years.

    The government's move to place land into trust for tribes essentially ensures the tracts can't be taken from them or sold because only a congressional vote can remove the land from tribal ownership or jurisdiction.

    https://knpr.org/headline/2016-10/more-thatn-500k-acres-land-returned-tribes

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

    “Where ever you're getting your South Dakota propaganda…”

    It’s factual information from the State of South Dakota 2012 Presidential election results. 11 counties in the state voted for President Obama over Governor Romney. The most pro-Obama were Oglala Lakota (formerly Shannon) County at 93%, Todd County at 79%, Buffalo County at 74% and Dewey County at 64%.

    The Oglala Lakota numbers are especially “sweet.” Perhaps you should listen to the People more often at a sit down.

    They must realize that, “"Many tribal leaders say Obama has done more in six years for Native Americans than all of his predecessors combined.”

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 7:50 AM
  • "...you know you are obligated to be against it."

    Sorry, but I'm not "obligated" to anything of the sort. Most of it I just laugh at, and those are probably the kind of absurd opinions you'd agree with.

    Good example is when he illogically claims that "all democrats want all Americans 'dependent' on government." That in itself is ludicrous and implausible, yet many SO and other conservatives are just that easily mislead and believe him.

    I agree with the need for deficit reduction and budget balancing, but disagree that it can be done by cutting welfare and Social Security/Medicare/Medicaid.

    I doesn't really effect me whether you idolize him or not, but Limbaugh is the "ideal" conservative to many, and that's a problem for republicans.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 8:07 AM
  • *

    I doesn't really effect me whether you idolize him or not, but Limbaugh is the "ideal" conservative to many, and that's a problem for republicans.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 8:07 AM

    What are you trying to say Common..... the Republicans are having problems and the Democrats are at the peak of their game?

    Did you sleep through the past 8 years while Obama was gutting the country?

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 8:20 AM
  • "...was gutting the country?"

    How exactly did he do that?

    Were you asleep when the stock market went from about 7000 to 20,000?

    Were you asleep when unemployment went from about 10% to 5%/

    Were you asleep when the economy grew from 14.57 to 18.87 trillion?

    Were you asleep when OBL was killed?

    Were you asleep when about 50,000 ISIS or other militants were eliminated?

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 8:33 AM
  • *

    Good example is when he illogically claims that "all democrats want all Americans 'dependent' on government." That in itself is ludicrous and implausible, yet many SO and other conservatives are just that easily mislead and believe him.-- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 8:07 AM

    Common: To deny this shows how brain washed you are by the Snowflake Liberal Democratic Party made up mostly of the Blood Sucking Freeloaders and the Mexican Illegals.

    This message is not to offend anyone and if it does I am deeply sorry for any necessary medical/mental treatment that one incurs.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 8:35 AM
  • To [not] deny this shows how brain washed you are by [Limbaugh]...

    Hope to see you back in reality soon.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 8:44 AM
  • *

    No, I was wide awake watching while the economy returned from recession at it's slowest rate ever and we spent the nation's treasure and future like drunken sailors on a Saturday night, doubling our national debt more rapidly than any time in history.

    Obama has a legacy for sure. That of adding more debt than the previous Presidents combined and creating the greatest racial division in 50 years. And lest we forget, creating a mess in the healthcare industry that will tale years to recover from. Yes, hang Obamacare securely around his neck and the Democratic Party's.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 8:46 AM
  • *

    To [not] deny this shows how brain washed you are by [Limbaugh]...

    Hope to see you back in reality soon.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 8:44 AM

    Common: There you go again, just because you listen to Limbaugh you think everyone does....lay off of MSNBC Madcow and then join reality to the real world.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 9:12 AM
  • *

    Add to my 9:12 am comment: This message is not to offend anyone and if it does I am deeply sorry for any necessary medical/mental treatment that one incurs.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 9:13 AM
  • Were you asleep... -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 8:33 AM

    Where was your head when Obama doubled the US debt?

    Where was your head when Obama forgave $130+ BILLION in student debt?

    Where was your head when Obama sat over the lowest increases in SS for seniors under any president in modern history?

    Where was when Obama signed the largest tax increase in US History?

    Where was your head when Obama's weak foreign policy allowed ISIS to begin?

    Where was your head when the first "black" president resided over the largest AA unemployment in US History for a president?

    Where was your head when the US Dept of Labor (sorry - not Rush Limbaugh) reported the highest rate of Americans not in the labor force? And showed it at ALL age ranges?

    ===

    We know exactly where your head was. Same place it is today - in a dark place.

    And apparently that's where your beloved democrat party is. In denial and destroyed.

    Thanks! PLEASE keep pushing your empty rhetoric.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 9:15 AM
  • *

    Add to my 9:12 am comment: This message is not to offend anyone and if it does I am deeply sorry for any necessary medical/mental treatment that one incurs.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 9:13 AM

    Semo471

    It appears you may have offended Common, he seems to have left the building.

    But I wouldn't be concerned about it. So long as you are respectful and tell the truth, if that offends, then I suppose you just place that under the heading, it is your right to become offended. Get over it. :-)

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 9:19 AM
  • *

    -- Posted by Doug Williams on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 9:15 AM

    Ouch! The truth may be a bit uncomfortable in some areas. :-)

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 9:23 AM
  • Ouch! The truth may be a bit uncomfortable in some areas. :-) -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 9:23 AM

    That's for sure. What did you think I mean by "dark place"? I was of course referring to "in the sand". LOL!

    Commie is scared to death that our new Attorney General Sessions is focused on fighting dangerous gangs, deporting criminal illegals, pushing prosecutors today for longer jail terms (vs. when Eric Holder loosened them tremendously).

    Lettau doesn't like a tough-on-crime approach to dealing with problems. Remember his beloved Obama? Who believed police were the problem and criminals were victims?

    What a nightmare Mr. Lettau must be living in the past 3 months. His dependency might be in jeopardy... Crime might drop... Deporting criminal illegals might go up... Oh the horror!

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 9:36 AM
  • "...doubling our national debt more rapidly than any time in history."

    Perhaps you can also explain how the President was able to do this all by himself? Congress still has the final say on the appropriation and authorization laws, the president just signs and can't change a word or a number.

    "...the greatest racial division in 50 years."

    It's hard to believe that you're oblivious to what happened in the 50's, 60's, 70's and 80's. What's gone on in the past 10 years is a cake-walk compared to the past. What made the minor and few racial divisions more apparent now, is social media and camera phones, it was not the President.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 9:51 AM
  • *

    -- Posted by Doug Williams on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 9:36 AM

    Doug, are you suggesting holding beer summits and getting stern with the Russians by telling them to "cut it out" don't work?

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 9:53 AM
  • *

    It just occurred to me that with no place to vent since there is no longer a faceless forum for her anti Trump rhetoric, Theorist must be about to expode with sll of the pent up information she has to release. :-)

    Come on out Theorist the water is just fine and you will feel so much better when you can honestly comment.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 9:59 AM
  • *

    Doug, are you suggesting holding beer summits and getting stern with the Russians by telling them to "cut it out" don't work?

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 9:53 AM

    Wheels: IMO, Putin is still laughing at Obama for saying "cut it out" and "don't cross that Red Line Syria". It's a wonder Russia didn't militarily attack the USA during Obama's administration since Obama was just a JV of a leader.

    This message is not to offend anyone and if it does I am deeply sorry for any necessary medical/mental treatment that one incurs.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 10:05 AM
  • *

    It's hard to believe that you're oblivious to what happened in the 50's, 60's, 70's and 80's. What's gone on in the past 10 years is a cake-walk compared to the past. What made the minor and few racial divisions more apparent now, is social media and camera phones, it was not the President.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 9:51 AM

    I was here and remember all of it Common.

    At tht time we did not have the President of the Untited States stirring the rhetoric.

    What we did not have at that time was Politcal Correctness. We called criminal activity what it was. I don't remember stand down orders from Governor's and Mayor's causing law enforcement to stand by and watch criminals burn the town down. Not that some burning and looting didn't take place, it did. But the intention was to try and stop it or to minimize it as much as possible.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 10:06 AM
  • If only you could combine Obama's one strength - smooth talking and communication skills - with Trump's strength - make America great again, imagine how successful Trump would be?

    Democrats would still hate him simply because he's not a democrat. His agenda is great and I am happy about the substance of his actions and appointments. His communicating (Twitter, interviews, etc.) still is poor.

    But unlike the "style vs. substance" democrats I'll take substance over style any day.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 10:10 AM
  • *

    Come on out Theorist the water is just fine and you will feel so much better when you can honestly comment.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 9:59 AM

    Wheels: Theorist might be communicating with Common because his comments lately have seemed a little ......

    This message is not to offend anyone and if it does I am deeply sorry for any necessary medical/mental treatment that one incurs.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 10:12 AM
  • *

    One more thing Common, I said "and creating the greatest racial division in 50 years."

    What I did not say, was anything about it being greater or less than 50 years ago.

    Your "Idol" Barack Hussein Obama brought it all back with his rhetoric.

    Does that explain what I said or do I need to draw you a picture?

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 10:15 AM
  • *

    "If only you could combine Obama's one strength - smooth talking and communication skills - with Trump's strength - make America great again, imagine how successful Trump would be?"

    Doug,

    I think Trump's reading skills are every bit as good as Obama's he just doesn't have the patience to read a teleprompter the way Obama does.

    Could you imagine Obama back in history in a debate like the Lincoln, Douglas debate where he had to think on his feet? Have you ever seen him try to express himself when the teleprompter goes dark.

    I do not recognize him as that great a communicator.

    He has his handlers as does any Punch and Judy show.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 10:30 AM
  • "...was to try and stop it or to minimize it as much as possible."

    That's still the case. It's a good thing that we, as a society and nation, have matured enough to realize that white hoods, night sticks, water cannons, attack dogs, tear gas, and countering violence with violence was and still is not the answer and totally counterproductive.

    Even in Baltimore the decision to "give them room" was to give the peaceful demonstrators space, without inciting any violence. Had the police "charged" there would have been many more than 20 policemen injured and countless more civilians hurt or even killed, and much more property damage. As it was there were about 250 demonstrators arrested for criminal activity.

    Racial unrest or "division" today is "lovefest" compared to the 60's, and I was there too.

    Then there's the understatement of the year...

    "Not that some burning and looting didn't take place, it did."

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 10:38 AM
  • -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 10:30 AM

    For sure Obama was good on a teleprompter and "on message". You're right - get him off that and he stutters and stammers like an amateur.

    I just think that Trump's off the wall comments and tweets have hurt him more than helped.

    But he's 100% better than the Acorn community organizer we had for the past dismal 8 years!

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 10:39 AM
  • *

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 10:38 AM

    Read it again.... you obviously are having a problem understanding what I said.

    "One more thing Common, I said "and creating the greatest racial division in 50 years."

    What I did not say, was anything about it being greater or less than 50 years ago.

    Your "Idol" Barack Hussein Obama brought it all back with his rhetoric."

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 10:50 AM
  • *

    -- Posted by Doug Williams on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 10:39 AM

    Absolutely!

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 10:51 AM
  • "Read it again.... you obviously are having a problem understanding what I said."

    Racial unrest or "division" today is "lovefest" compared to the 60's, and I was there too. Therefore, the "greatest in 50 years" is irrelevant and meaningless.

    The point is that it has nothing to do with President Obama's "rhetoric" and everything to do with social media and the ability to record events instantaneously.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 12:28 PM
  • *

    Racial unrest or "division" today is "lovefest" compared to the 60's, and I was there too. Therefore, the "greatest in 50 years" is irrelevant and meaningless.

    The point is that it has nothing to do with President Obama's "rhetoric" and everything to do with social media and the ability to record events instantaneously.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 12:28 PM

    The 60's were just that and I indicated it in my statement by saying since, do you get it yet? SINCE! Did not compare it to the 60's. Things had settled down since then. Your boy stirred it up again. Since you waant to do a blow by blow comparison to the 60's..... I also experience Ferguson. I live within 10 miles of there in the next county. Those "Peaceful Protesters" closed down Interstate 70 within sight of where I live. What in blue blazes did that have to do with their problem in Ferguson? Don't try to tell me OBAMA's weighing in with his comments offering encouragement to the protesters had nothing to do with it. Because it didn't happen in Scopus doesn't mean it did not happen.

    During the 60's I lived in St. Louis County within about 10 miles of Kinloch and I can tell you Ferguson was worse. And yes, I also recognize in the 60's violence was worse in other parts of the country than it was in Kinloch.

    You can try and defend Obama as much as you like, but he ran his mouth every time there was a white on black crime and he refused to acknowledge black on white or black on black crime. He did what he was trained to do he was a community organizer.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 1:21 PM
  • Your opinion may be fine if you're chatting with Mr. Williams, for anyone else you need some facts.

    Find some quotes where President Obama tells people to go riot and burn things down.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 1:32 PM
  • *

    Find some quotes where President Obama tells people to go riot and burn things down.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 1:32 PM

    Try putting your brain in gear before you engage your fingers.

    Where did I say that?

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 1:48 PM
  • "...brought it all back with his rhetoric. "

    What rhetoric "caused the greatest racial division in 50 years?"

    Need examples of his rhetoric that healed racial divisions?

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 1:57 PM
  • *

    "...brought it all back with his rhetoric. "

    What rhetoric "caused the greatest racial division in 50 years?"

    Need examples of his rhetoric that healed racial divisions?

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 1:57 PM

    If you don't know or remember some of the things he said, me wasting the afternoon looking them up will prove nothing to you.

    And all he has ever done is pay minimal lip service to any healing.

    I stand on what I said in the beginning.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 2:05 PM
  • Looks like all you have is "opinion." And we all know what that's worth.

    Come back when you have some facts.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 2:36 PM
  • *

    Looks like all you have is "opinion." And we all know what that's worth.

    Come back when you have some facts.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 2:36 PM

    Common,

    I do not need your permission to come back and will do so at will.

    What do you suppose we are all posting on here if it is not opinion based on what we have read, heard and observed.

    Do you expect to find anywhere that Obama stated that it was his intention to create racial strife.

    Of course it is my opinion based on what I have read, heard and observed over the 8 years of the Obama Administration. And I firmly believe that he has set race relations back 50 years. While it may come as a surprise to you, I am not alone in that opinion.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 3:07 PM
  • Who, posting on here, can you point to that agrees with you? -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 4:46 PM

    Miccheck and Rick Lettau used to think identically. Both worshipped Obama to no end. Not sure if Miccheck compared an insult to Obama as equal to insulting God, though. That one hangs on Lettau himself.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 4:51 PM
  • *

    Who, posting on here, can you point to that agrees with you?

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 4:46 PM

    Wheels: Poor Snowflake "Common" has nobody in his corner....Common why don't you go on Snowflake.com and find a buddy.

    *******

    Those Russians are at it again....Ransomware is running rampart on the Internet.

    *******

    This message is not to offend anyone and if it does I am deeply sorry for any necessary medical/mental treatment that one incurs.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 5:58 PM
  • *

    Common

    Obama told no one to riot and burn But when he and Holder started making speeches and stepping in to situations such as Ferguson making insinuations that maybe their Law Enforcement needed to be investigated that got the pot stirred and it went from there.

    Can you say otherwise? No!

    -- Posted by Karen Jones on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 6:49 PM
  • "Who, posting on here, can you point to that agrees with you?"

    Now why would you think that I care whether you (or SO conservatives) "agree" with what I contribute. Do you not realize where you are?

    You can make up things to your heart's content, I would much more prefer to go along with factual information and reality.

    Another good SO conservative example, this one from Mr. VanGennip...

    "...my opinion based on what I have read, heard and observed over the 8 years of the Obama Administration."

    ...and Mr. VanGennip maintains, "me wasting the afternoon looking them up will prove nothing to you." Of course this is most often the case when he has nothing.

    He has spent 8 years reading, hearing and observing the President Obama administration, and he cannot come up with a single instance where President Obama's rhetoric incited a riot or a demonstration.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 7:17 PM
  • *

    and he cannot come up with a single instance where President Obama's rhetoric incited a riot or a demonstration.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 7:17 PM

    And you cannot prove that Obama's rhetoric has not caused rioting and looting. Don't try that whizzing contest, nobody can prove it either way, and you know it.

    As a matter of fact trying to reason with someone with a closed mind like your own is an exercise in futility.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 7:29 PM
  • *

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 7:17 PM

    Common: Iamhere's 6:49 pm comment says it all....now Snowflake go to your safe spot.

    This message is not to offend anyone and if it does I am deeply sorry for any necessary medical/mental treatment that one incurs.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 7:34 PM
  • "...needed to be investigated that got the pot stirred and it went from there."

    My opinion is that 99.99% or more of the police men and women across the nation do an exemplary job. The very few that cross lines need to be investigated, and why should they not be?

    If you really believe that there is not one law enforcement officer in the nation that has ever mistakenly or intentionally done something wrong, you may be more than a bit naive or gullible.

    What "insinuations" do you believe were made? And why would it not be beneficial for some police departments to review their existing policies and procedures?

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 7:38 PM
  • “And you cannot prove that Obama's rhetoric has not caused rioting and looting.”

    Guess you're not that up on logic, try proving that unicorns don't exist. In order to cure your close-mindedness, perhaps you can find the rhetoric you’re looking for in these quotes…

    “The fact is that the comments that have been made and the issues that have surfaced over the last few weeks reflect the complexities of race in this country that we've never really worked through — a part of our union that we have not yet made perfect. And if we walk away now, if we simply retreat into our respective corners, we will never be able to come together and solve challenges like health care or education or the need to find good jobs for every American. The fact is that the comments that have been made and the issues that have surfaced over the last few weeks reflect the complexities of race in this country that we've never really worked through — a part of our union that we have not yet made perfect. And if we walk away now, if we simply retreat into our respective corners, we will never be able to come together and solve challenges like health care or education or the need to find good jobs for every American.”

    “We're here to honor the memory and mourn the loss of five fellow Americans, to grieve with their loved ones, to support this community, and pray for the wounded, and to try and find some meaning amidst our sorrow.

    For the men and women who protect and serve the people of Dallas, last Thursday began like any other day. Like most Americans, each day you get up, probably have too quick a breakfast, kiss your family goodbye, and you head to work.

    But your work and the work of police officers across the country is like no other. For the moment you put on that uniform, you have answered a call that at any moment, even in the briefest interaction, may put your life in harm's way.”

    "What could more profoundly vindicate the idea of America than plain and humble people – the unsung, the downtrodden, the dreamers not of high station, not born to wealth or privilege, not of one religious tradition but many – coming together to shape their country’s course?

    What greater expression of faith in the American experiment than this; what greater form of patriotism is there; than the belief that America is not yet finished, that we are strong enough to be self-critical, that each successive generation can look upon our imperfections and decide that it is in our power to remake this nation to more closely align with our highest ideals?

    “We do a disservice to the cause of justice by intimating that bias and discrimination are immutable, or that racial division is inherent to America. If you think nothing’s changed in the past fifty years, ask somebody who lived through the Selma or Chicago or L.A. of the Fifties. Ask the female CEO who once might have been assigned to the secretarial pool if nothing’s changed. Ask your gay friend if it’s easier to be out and proud in America now than it was thirty years ago. To deny this progress – our progress – would be to rob us of our own agency; our responsibility to do what we can to make America better.

    Of course, a more common mistake is to suggest that racism is banished, that the work that drew men and women to Selma is complete, and that whatever racial tensions remain are a consequence of those seeking to play the “race card” for their own purposes. We don’t need the Ferguson report to know that’s not true. We just need to open our eyes, and ears, and hearts, to know that this nation’s racial history still casts its long shadow upon us. We know the march is not yet over, the race is not yet won, and that reaching that blessed destination where we are judged by the content of our character – requires admitting as much.”

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 8:08 PM
  • “And you cannot prove that Obama's rhetoric has not caused rioting and looting.”

    Now, Mr. VanGennip, it's your opportunity to "...prove that [President] Obama's rhetoric has caused rioting and looting.”

    It won't surprise me in the least if it's beyond your capabilities, so don't worry if you fail again...

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 8:15 PM
  • *

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 8:15 PM

    Common,

    That word salad that you cut and pasted from one of your Leftist sites..... was it written by one of Obama's speech writers, then read by him from a teleprompter at a photo-op.

    What did you think you proved with that?

    If you don't know, I can tell you. You proved nothing.

    The opinion I posted and explained to you could be debated one way or the other with no definite consensus ever being reached.

    So take your majority of one and be satisfied. My opinion of you, your Idol the Community Organizer or the damage he has done to this country over 8 years has not changed. For all of the flowery speeches written for and read by him, he is still a race bater.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 8:54 PM
  • *

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 8:08 PM

    Common: Never has a person say so much in order to say so little.

    This message is not to offend anyone and if it does I am deeply sorry for any necessary medical/mental treatment that one incurs.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Fri, May 12, 2017, at 9:36 PM
  • Obama on Cambridge Police: "I DON'T KNOW – not having been there and not seeing all the facts – what role race played in that, but I think it’s fair to say, number one, any of us would be pretty angry; number two that the Cambridge police acted stupidly."

    Didn't know the facts yet called the police stupid.

    ===

    Obama on Baltimore Shooting: "We have seen too many instances of what appears to be police officers interacting with individuals, primarily African-American, often poor, in ways that raise troubling questions. This has been a slow-rolling crisis. This has been going on for a long time. This is not new, and we shouldn't pretend that it's new."

    And then every single one of the police were acquitted of any charges despite prosecutorial misconduct by a democrat prosecutor. All innocent.

    ===

    “I think [the Obama administration] continued appeasements at the federal level with the Department of Justice, their appeasement of violent criminals, their refusal to condemn movements like Black Lives Matter, actively calling for the death of police officers, that type of thing, all the while blaming police for the problems in this country has led directly to the climate that has made Dallas possible,” William Johnson, the executive director of the National Association of Police Organizations.

    Let me guess - Rick Lettau of the Marble Hill coffee shop genius knows more than the executive director of the National Association of Police Organizations?

    You're so anti-American. Odd from someone who claims to have sat behind a desk in the Air Force for a few years. Very odd.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Sat, May 13, 2017, at 12:26 AM
  • PPACA News :

    The Ransomware Meltdown Experts Warned About Is Here

    A new strain of ransomware has spread quickly all over the world, causing crises in National Health Service hospitals and facilities around England, and gaining particular traction in Spain, where it has hobbled the large telecom company Telefonica, the natural gas company Gas Natural, and the electrical company Iberdrola. You know how people always talk about the Big One? As far as ransomware attacks go, this looks a whole lot like it.

    The ransomware strain WannaCry (also known as WanaCrypt0r and WCry) that caused Friday’s barrage appears to be a new variant of a type that first appeared in late March. This new version has only gained steam since its initial barrage, with tens of thousands of infections in 74 countries so far today as of publication time. Its reach extends beyond the UK and Spain, into Russia, Taiwan, France, Japan, and dozens more countries.

    “The spread is immense,” says Adam Kujawa, the director of malware intelligence at Malwarebytes, which discovered the original version of WannaCry. “I’ve never seen anything before like this. This is nuts.”

    https://www.wired.com/2017/05/ransomware-meltdown-experts-warned/

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sat, May 13, 2017, at 3:08 AM
  • You know, when Trayvon Martin was first shot I said that this could have been my son.  Another way of saying that is Trayvon Martin could have been me 35 years ago.  And when you think about why, in the African American community at least, there’s a lot of pain around what happened here, I think it’s important to recognize that the African American community is looking at this issue through a set of experiences and a history that doesn’t go away.

    There are very few African American men in this country who haven't had the experience of being followed when they were shopping in a department store.  That includes me.  There are very few African American men who haven't had the experience of walking across the street and hearing the locks click on the doors of cars.  That happens to me -- at least before I was a senator.  There are very few African Americans who haven't had the experience of getting on an elevator and a woman clutching her purse nervously and holding her breath until she had a chance to get off.  That happens often.

    ~~ Barack Obama

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sat, May 13, 2017, at 7:46 AM
  • 3 Basic Religions in the United States of America :

    1.) Christian

    2.) Obaman

    3.) Muslim

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sat, May 13, 2017, at 7:47 AM
  • *

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sat, May 13, 2017, at 7:47 AM

    Rick: #2 & #3 are the same.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Sat, May 13, 2017, at 8:44 AM
  • *

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Sat, May 13, 2017, at 8:44 AM

    And lest we forget, the Jewish religion. I believe the country was established on basically Judeo-Christian principles at the time.

    And, if you want to admit it or not, the undocumented immigrants of the day, took over and established their own government with little regard to the current citizens.

    And the more things change, the more they stay the same, what are the Muslims trying to do today? Set up Shariah law of course.

    Rick, is there any room in your People's backyard to set up Reservations for Christians and Jews?

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Sat, May 13, 2017, at 8:56 AM
  • *

    Rick, is there any room in your People's backyard to set up Reservations for Christians and Jews?

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Sat, May 13, 2017, at 8:56 AM

    Wheels: No need for reservations, according to the Koran any non-believers will have their heads cut off. Only the Snowflake Left Wingers think that the Muslims are OK.

    This message is not to offend anyone and if it does I am deeply sorry for any necessary medical/mental treatment that one incurs.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Sat, May 13, 2017, at 9:14 AM
  • Wheels

    The Cherokee claim they have Jewish DNA in their bloodline . A lot of their customs , rituals , and beliefs come close to the Jewish Peoples .

    Who knows ?

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sat, May 13, 2017, at 9:50 AM
  • SO Participants,

    I have for some time, successfully and gladly ignored the comments and interjections of Mr. Williams. His remarks are consistently repetitive, 100% partisan, without merit, and in no way conducive to sensible discussions.

    This is a exception for two reasons, one because his comments are more misleading than usual, and two, because he is making personal and untrue attacks on me.

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

    As for his mention of the “Cambridge police stupidity,” what else would you call it when a policeman arrests a homeowner, who has misplaced his keys, for trying to re-enter his own home. It is in no way “smart policing.” It makes no difference if the civilian being approached by a policeman is a university professor, or an 18 year old, police have an obligation to be the “adult” in every situation, and it makes no difference how childish the civilian acts, the police cannot respond in kind. A “smart” Cambridge police officer would have ascertained that it was the individual’s property, offered to help contact a locksmith, and left the scene.

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

    “…instances of what appears to be police officers interacting with individuals, primarily African-American, often poor, in ways that raise troubling questions.”

    It is without question that this does happen. In the case of the Baltimore police, they were adjudged “not guilty” as there was room for “reasonable doubt.” Were they truly innocent, there would have been no indictment.

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

    “I think [the Obama administration] continued appeasements at the federal level ….”

    … is the personal opinion of William Johnson. “Black lives matter” is an organization that monitors civil actions of police, as they have a Constitutional right to. It is not in the business of “…actively calling for the death of police officers…” There may be “members” that may chant abusive slogans, but those are individual actions. The opposite of “black lives matter” is obviously “black lives do not matter” which would surely gladden the hearts of the KKK, skinheads, and others.

    No one with any sense, believes in “…blaming police for the problems in this country …” There’s no doubt that the vast, overwhelming majority police and police forces operate 100% within the law. That does not excuse questionable incidents that should be investigated. Today’s social media, phone cameras and instant wide range communications highlights those incidents as never before.

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

    As for the personal attacks on me, they are untrue, inaccurate and totally uncalled for. I have no qualms about participating in this forum, but with its open identification of contributors, deliberate lies should not and cannot be tolerated.

    Just for the record, these lies should be retracted and apologized for:

    “…Marble Hill coffee shop genius…”

    Not only do I not believe that there is not a “coffee shop” in Marble Hill, but I don’t stop for coffee, except from a gas station for a cup “to go” on my way to work.

    “You're so anti-American.”

    That too is a blatant lie. How does defending a President of the United States become “anti-American?” Even being critical of President Trump is not “ánti-American.” If criticizing a president makes one “anti-American,” the entire SO crew is guilty of it.

    “ …claims to have sat behind a desk in the Air Force for a few years.”

    The use of “claims” and “few years” makes the statement of Mr. Williams a lie. The fact is I spent over 24 years as an engineering and construction officer in the US Air Force, serving for various periods, in the Philippines, Korea, Vietnam, Okinawa, Truk, Turkey, Germany, Australia and Panama, and made trips from Panama to Honduras, el Salvador and Columbia.

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

    Though it should definitely be made, I do not expect that Mr. Williams will apologize for these lies and personal attacks.

    I will however, go back to ignoring his claims and stories. Apologizing may be the honorable thing to do, but it won’t bother me either way as I consider the source.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Sat, May 13, 2017, at 10:42 AM
  • *

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Sat, May 13, 2017, at 10:42 AM

    Common: Careful now or you will bring the wrath of the Paper to come down on us again.

    This message is not to offend anyone and if it does I am deeply sorry for any necessary medical/mental treatment that one incurs.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Sat, May 13, 2017, at 11:00 AM
  • *

    Waiting for the grass to dry and read Mr Lettau 10:42am post. Don't know, should I laugh or should I cry!

    At the moment I hope I can stop laughing before the grass dries. Not sure I can work in this state of agitation.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Sat, May 13, 2017, at 11:48 AM
  • I'm not going to catch up back to where I left off Wednesday evening. I am back from a place of fine people waiting on my every need.

    I am much better for the experience and although a sand bag was close by, I never lifted one.

    Just read Mr L's post.

    His constant defense of all things liberal-progressive with many times opinion articles cut and pasted and presented as backing his opinion, imo, gives him little standing to be critical of others defending opinions.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Sat, May 13, 2017, at 12:49 PM
  • All life matters , to single out any criteria is biased against the rest of life . A single criteria became a National issue between the years 2008 and 2016 .

    Spin it any way you want , this is a simple fact .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sat, May 13, 2017, at 1:33 PM
  • The Ransomware Meltdown Experts Warned About Is Here

    ..............

    A new update Patch is being sent to all Windows 8 , 8.1 , and 10 Windows Version today . An update notice should appear in the bottom right hand corner of the screen . Be advised , it takes a long damm time to update . Also , this is the second Patch , the first was sent at the beginning of March , obviously the first was compromised .

    Personal data has not been breached , it's been blocked to no access at hospitals , clinics , ER's and such . Any data system , PPACA etc.. , can not be accessed ..

    thank you very much Obama and your millions of Socialist

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sat, May 13, 2017, at 1:42 PM
  • Wantocry , or wcry , is the virus bug's name ...

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sat, May 13, 2017, at 1:45 PM
  • The Russians did it , has to be !!

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sat, May 13, 2017, at 1:49 PM
  • I have for some time, successfully and gladly ignored the comments and interjections of Mr. Williams. His remarks are consistently repetitive, 100% partisan, without merit, and in no way conducive to sensible discussions.

    This is a exception for two reasons, one because his comments are more misleading than usual, and two, because he is making personal and untrue attacks on me.

    ................

    But there is Freedom of Speech and Expression , just the same as you , me and all Speak Out posters have .

    No where does it say they must be agreed with or may , or may not , be fact . But , they are Free .

    Please consider these facts while making your own Freedom of Speech and Expressions when , or if , making personal and untrue attacks . I try myself and fail many times , none the less , it is the No. 1 Law of the Great Lands , the 1st Amendment .

    I do not endorse all of Mr.Williams observations , only 3 posters come to mind who I do , but I've always I endorsed the No.1 Law of the Land ... Freedom of Speech .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sat, May 13, 2017, at 2:22 PM
  • My observations over the years have become more apparent in recent years.

    `No opinion can be sensible or logical to a leftist unless it it agrees with the leftist agenda.

    `Any facts are fake facts unless reported by mean stream liberal anti Trump sites.

    `When Liberal reporters interview each other about "rumor has it", other liberal leftists will keep repeating until someone reports on it as if it was fact.

    `Most democrats that have served more than 3 terms in congress represent themselves and their re-election campaign fund and so do several republicans.

    `A good leftist can spin anything sick idea into the good thing opposite.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Sat, May 13, 2017, at 6:34 PM
  • “His constant defense of all things liberal-progressive …”

    Any defense is in response to claims made that are basically misleading. For example, claims are made that President Obama seemed to “endorse” racial violence, which is totally untrue. So I posted a few extracts indicating his actual position. Why that should be a problem is mystifying.

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

    “…gives him little standing to be critical of others defending opinions.”

    I’m not critical of others expressing opinions. For example, I asked for someone to defend their opinions by showing where President Obama had told others to riot and burn down things, and received no factual responses. Perhaps some of their opinions are indefensible.

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

    “…will bring the wrath of the Paper to come down on us again.”

    That should not be a problem, it’s pretty conservative as it is.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Sat, May 13, 2017, at 8:20 PM
  • “My observations over the years have become more apparent in recent years.”

    Your opinions are whatever they are. Perhaps you can actually explain some of them….

    ”No opinion can be sensible or logical to a leftist …” such as, what is an example?.

    ”Any facts are fake facts…” such as what? Do you have an example of a “fake fact?”

    “When Liberal reporters interview each other about "rumor has it"…. What’s an example of this?

    “Most democrats that have served more than 3 terms in congress represent themselves…” I’d suggest that they all do from the start.

    “A good leftist can spin anything sick idea…” And one of these sick ideas is what?

    It’s easy to make claims about opinions, but it’s more effective when backed up with facts.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Sat, May 13, 2017, at 8:34 PM
  • It’s easy to make claims about opinions, but it’s more effective when backed up with facts. -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Sat, May 13, 2017, at 8:34 PM

    You should try some facts in your posts. It would be refreshing - and something I haven't seen in 10 years from you.

    Your opinions - like the one where you compared the insult to Obama as equal to an insult to Jesus - are quite revealing but, alas, not facts.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Sat, May 13, 2017, at 8:49 PM
  • “When Liberal reporters interview each other about "rumor has it"…. What’s an example of this?

    How about this whole thing about Trump and Putin teaming up to defeat Hillary. First the Dems like him and then they hate him. No proof has been offered that the Russians had anything to do the election but if you listen to main stream leftist media you should know they keep coming back to it like it is fact.

    The problem with liberal leftist is that they just won't quit. Every thing of a simple answer that doesn't agree with their agenda is met with another deflection asking for proof And when it is offered, they deflect with more questions and talking points.

    Our esteemed friend from Scopus, I think, would be happier back east with his family, closer to big government and big construction opportunities for life long government employees.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Sat, May 13, 2017, at 9:45 PM
  • Bill Clinton...Commander In Perversion

    George Bush...Commander in Terrorist

    Barack Obama ...Commander in Fund Raiser

    Donald Trump ... Commander in Tweet

    (Hillary would have been Commander in E-mail)

    The slow , steady , decline of the USA....

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sun, May 14, 2017, at 7:47 AM
  • *

    I’m not critical of others expressing opinions. For example, I asked for someone to defend their opinions by showing where President Obama had told others to riot and burn down things, and received no factual responses. Perhaps some of their opinions are indefensible.

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

    “…will bring the wrath of the Paper to come down on us again.”

    That should not be a problem, it’s pretty conservative as it is.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Sat, May 13, 2017, at 8:20 PM

    Mr. Common,

    I and others have asked you to simply explain yourself many times and it is ignored. And I am speaking of words actually spoken by you.

    Now you are dragging a red herring across the trail on trying to discredit my opinion of Obama having stirred up race relations. You ask me to show proof of something Obama did not or would not ever say in so many words.

    If you had paid attention over all of those years you claim having spent on earth, you would have learned many years ago there are various ways to get someone to do something without actually saying go do it.

    I have learned long ago not to allow myself to be sent on a fool's errand by someone who gives all the appearances of being one.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Sun, May 14, 2017, at 8:26 AM
  • I don't believe logic is his strong suite. -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Sun, May 14, 2017, at 8:36 AM

    He believes like his president Obama that if you say something 100 times people will believe it's true. He repeats himself constantly.

    That works with the low-info crowd. Not gonna work here.

    And the funniest thing? He listens and quotes Rush Limbaugh more than anyone on here. Precious. I just hope he continues to predict huge democrat election wins like he has for the past 6 years LOL!

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Sun, May 14, 2017, at 9:32 AM
  • *

    Told girlfriend this morning that since it's Mother's Day she can wait and mow the yard tomorrow.

    Happy Mother's Day!!

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Sun, May 14, 2017, at 9:50 AM
  • I’m not critical of others expressing opinions. For example, I asked for someone to defend their opinions by showing where President Obama had told others to riot and burn down things, and received no factual responses. Perhaps some of their opinions are indefensible.

    ...............

    sub·lime  (sə-blīm′)

    adj., n., v. -limed, -lim•ing. adj.

    1. elevated or lofty in thought, language, etc.

    2. impressing the mind with a sense of grandeur or power; inspiring awe, veneration, etc.

    3. supreme or outstanding: a sublime dinner.

    n.

    4. the sublime,

    a. the realm of things that are sublime.

    b. the quality of sublimity.

    c. the greatest or supreme degree.

    v.t.

    5. to make higher, nobler, or purer.

    6.

    a. to convert (a solid substance) by heat into a vapor, which on cooling condenses again to solid form, without apparent liquefaction.

    b. to cause to be given off by this process.

    v.i.

    7. to volatilize from the solid state to a gas, and then condense again as a solid without passing through the liquid state.

    http://www.thefreedictionary.com/sublimes

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Sun, May 14, 2017, at 9:53 AM
  • "...hear him whining..."

    Mr. VanGennip, you've posted some outrageously silly statements during your time, but this is by far the most absurd.

    Pointing out fabricated lies is hardly "whining." Disregarding and dismissing factual information seems to be a favorite conservative pastime.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Sun, May 14, 2017, at 10:04 AM
  • Obama's rhetoric made the Trayvon Martin death a racial crime right off the bat.

    He and his AG blaming local law enforcement first and then looking into it later set the tone that rioting is acceptable. That goofy mayor in Baltimore that would not allow enforcement of law and protection of property was channeling the far leftist ideals of Obama.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Sun, May 14, 2017, at 10:14 AM
  • "...this whole thing about Trump and Putin teaming up..."

    Of course they didn't "team up," why would you suggest that?

    What they did do was fall over themselves praising each other during the campaigns.

    What Putin did do was facilitate the illegal release of e-mails which helped Trump and hurt Clinton.

    As I've said all along is that she lost because of her e-mails and the resulting, successful republican effort to paint her as untrustworthy and crooked.

    Neither is any more true of her, than it is of all other politicians, but they made it stick well enough.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Sun, May 14, 2017, at 10:20 AM
  • Common, When Joe makes a statement like "My friend is getting married for the first time", and you spin it to mean Joe is predicting there will be other marriages, and then ask for factual truth from Joe supporting his statement; Well you should be able to see how silly it is to try to confuse people about the easy to see truth that you wish to discredit Trump and can't quit praising the latest has-been president.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Sun, May 14, 2017, at 10:26 AM
  • The Trayvon Martin crime was racial from the start. Rhetoric had nothing to do with that.

    If you believe that a white teenager would have been killed under the exact same circumstances, you're a top candidate for the SO gullibility award.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Sun, May 14, 2017, at 10:27 AM
  • "What Putin did do was facilitate the illegal release of e-mails which helped Trump and hurt Clinton."

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

    Where is your proof to back up that opinion?

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Sun, May 14, 2017, at 10:29 AM
  • "...your proof..."

    Maybe the FBI has it...

    Or the CIA has it...

    Or maybe you could look it up yourself. ..

    Or maybe Comey hasn't released it yet...

    Or maybe it's in the same place as the proof that President Obama's rhetoric caused racial divisions...

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Sun, May 14, 2017, at 11:20 AM
  • Or maybe President Trump asked me to keep it quiet...

    (Sarcasm, just in case. ..)

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Sun, May 14, 2017, at 11:25 AM
  • So RL has no proof of anything behind all the repeated Trump -Russian allegations that the losers invented when their get Trump and Bernie with one leak backfired. Right out of he playbook, Accuse them of doing what you're doing.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Sun, May 14, 2017, at 12:33 PM
  • *

    "What Putin did do was facilitate the illegal release of e-mails which helped Trump and hurt Clinton."

    If that were really true, maybe next year Putin will get the award Obama just received.

    Certainly could be claimed as a service to America.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Sun, May 14, 2017, at 2:15 PM
  • If you believe that a white teenager would have been killed under the exact same circumstances, you're a top candidate for the SO gullibility award. -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Sun, May 14, 2017, at 10:27 AM

    If you believe Trayvon Martin was killed when bashing the guys head in the concrete because he was black you're a top candidate for the Obama race-baiter award.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Sun, May 14, 2017, at 2:25 PM
  • That's funny. All of a sudden "proof" is needed.

    How is it that conservatives never need "proof?"

    To find proof google this, "Trump praises Putin."

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Sun, May 14, 2017, at 3:36 PM
  • "That's funny. All of a sudden "proof" is needed."

    Nothing all a sudden about it. You started demanding proof to back up opinions and now can't back up your own. I don't have to google to know what Trump said about Putin and why he said it.

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Sun, May 14, 2017, at 3:42 PM
  • To find proof google this, "Trump praises Putin." -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Sun, May 14, 2017, at 3:36 PM

    Since your Google is broke and can only seem to find MSNBC, Huffington Post and the DNC web site let me help enlighten your low-info mindset. Heck - I'll give you the links:

    "Obama praises Russia's Putin" - http://www.reuters.com/article/us-obama-russia-putin-sb-idUSTRE56657Q20090707

    "Hillary Praises Putin" - http://www.weeklystandard.com/hillary-praises-putin-for-standing-up-and-saying-h...

    Now why should anyone care what you think about Trump praising Putin? Your only objective is to discourage people from disagreeing with Obama. Your problem is your reputation. You're a pyromaniac complaining about fires. Hilarious!

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Sun, May 14, 2017, at 5:00 PM
  • "... demanding proof to back up opinions...."

    I don't "demand proof" for opinions, you're welcome to believe whatever you like.

    When you try to make factual claims, such as President Obama says people should riot and burn things down, I'd like a link to some valid quotes.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Sun, May 14, 2017, at 5:32 PM
  • *

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Sun, May 14, 2017, at 5:32 PM

    Common: Here's a fact for you: Trump is the President and Hillary is a nobody.

    This message is not to offend anyone and if it does I am deeply sorry for any necessary medical/mental treatment that one incurs.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Sun, May 14, 2017, at 6:30 PM
  • *

    When you try to make factual claims, such as President Obama says people should riot and burn things down, I'd like a link to some valid quotes.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Sun, May 14, 2017, at 5:32 PM

    Little man, specifically who made that statement, other than you. Name names.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Sun, May 14, 2017, at 7:05 PM
  • At least you're half right for a change.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Sun, May 14, 2017, at 7:05 PM
  • *

    At least you're half right for a change.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Sun, May 14, 2017, at 7:05 PM

    Common: As always you fail to link your comments.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Sun, May 14, 2017, at 7:26 PM
  • Easy, you're right about Trump, and wrong about Clinton. Was that so hard to figure out?

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Sun, May 14, 2017, at 8:14 PM
  • "....specifically who made that statement..."

    That's what I've been asking, and you made these statements and I'll even give you credit for reading between the lines. Try answering my questions...

    “…the damage he has done to this country over 8 years has not changed.”

    What damage?

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

    “Do you expect to find anywhere that Obama stated that it was his intention to create racial strife.”

    I can find where he is against racial strife.

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

    “Of course it is my opinion based on what I have read, heard and observed over the 8 years of the Obama Administration. And I firmly believe that he has set race relations back 50 years.”

    How did he do that without saying a word?

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

    “And all he has ever done is pay minimal lip service to any healing.”

    I disagree, do you want some more quotes?

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

    “I stand on what I said in the beginning.”

    Which is?

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

    “…but he ran his mouth every time there was a white on black crime and he refused to acknowledge black on white or black on black crime.”

    And what did he say?

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

    “Don't try to tell me [President Obama’s] weighing in with his comments offering encouragement to the protesters had nothing to do with it.”

    What comments?

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

    “Does that explain what I said or do I need to draw you a picture?”

    No, you just have to stick to facts.

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

    “…and creating the greatest racial division in 50 years. “

    It’s not true in any case, but how do you think he did that?

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

    “Your [President] Barack Hussein Obama brought it all back with his rhetoric.”

    What rhetoric? That’s been the question all along.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Sun, May 14, 2017, at 8:23 PM
  • *

    Common, since you are ducking my question you leave me believing you lied in this statement......

    "When you try to make factual claims, such as President Obama says people should riot and burn things down...."

    Nobody really made that ststemrnt, did they Common? Hearing no more, I will chalk it up as a lie.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Sun, May 14, 2017, at 8:25 PM
  • "....specifically who made that statement..." That's what I've been asking -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Sun, May 14, 2017, at 8:23 PM

    Ouch. Looks like Commie got caught in another bold-faced lie and tried to duck. Busted again.

    It's a pattern.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Sun, May 14, 2017, at 8:30 PM
  • *

    Don't go getting your shorts in a twist Commie. Just answer me, who made the statement you concoted?

    I'll help you.... nobody!

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Sun, May 14, 2017, at 8:34 PM
  • "...to know what Trump said about Putin and why he said it."

    So what did he say and why?

    Here are a few starters...

    “Trump praises Putin for his criticism of the term “American exceptionalism:”

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

    “So we’ve invited President Putin, that’ll be interesting,” Trump said on “Fox and Friends.” “I know he’d like to go.”

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

    “Trump tells Larry King on Ora TV that Putin has done “a really great job outsmarting our country.”

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

    Trump tells David Letterman that he’s done “a lot of business with the Russians” and says they are “smart” and “tough” and that they don’t look “so dumb right now.” He calls Putin a “tough guy” and says that he “met him once.”

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

    About 70 more Trump praises…

    http://www.cnn.com/interactive/2017/03/politics/trump-putin-russia-timeline/

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

    Trump tells radio host Michael Savage that he might meet with Putin prior to the start of his administration.

    "I think I could see myself meeting with Putin and meeting with Russia prior to the start of the administration,” he said. “I think it would be wonderful.”

    In the interview, he also said that Clinton shouldn’t talk “so tough” on Russia, saying "She talks tough with Russia. She shouldn't be talking so tough. Frankly, if we got along with Russia and knocked out ISIS, that would be a good thing, not a bad thing."

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

    At the third presidential debate, Trump denied Clinton’s charge he was Putin’s “puppet”, saying “No puppet. You’re the puppet.”

    He further denied having met Putin and said that Putin had “outsmarted” Clinton and Obama.

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

    Trump says at a rally in Ohio that it was not smart of Clinton to speak “very badly of Putin.”

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

    Vladimir Putin said today about Hillary and Dems: "In my opinion, it is humiliating. One must be able to lose with dignity." So true!

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

    Trump says he believes Russia was responsible for the hacking the Democratic National committee in 2016:

    "I think it was Russia," Trump said, adding that Putin "should not be doing it.”

    “He won't be doing it. Russia will have much greater respect for our country when I am leading it than when other people have led it,” Trump said.

    Trump also said he believes a good relationship with Putin would be an asset.

    "If Putin likes Donald Trump, I consider that an asset, not a liability, because we have a horrible relationship with Russia. Russia can help us fight ISIS, which, by the way, is, number one, tricky. I mean if you look, this administration created ISIS by leaving at the wrong time. The void was created, ISIS was formed."

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

    Trump says he respects Putin during a Super Bowl interview with Bill O’Reilly. Trump defends Putin when O’Reilly calls him a killer.

    “There are a lot of killers,” Trump says. “Do you think our country is so innocent? Do you think our country is so innocent?

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

    “And I can tell you, speaking for myself, I own nothing in Russia. I have no loans in Russia. I don't have any deals in Russia. President Putin called me up very nicely to congratulate me on the win of the election,” Trump said.

    Trump adds, “I would love to be able to get along with Russia. Now, you've had a lot of presidents that haven't taken that tack. Look where we are now. Look where we are now. So, if I can - now, I love to negotiate things, I do it really well, and all that stuff. But - but it's possible I won't be able to get along with Putin.”

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Sun, May 14, 2017, at 8:38 PM
  • "Nobody really made that statement, did they..."

    That's correct, so President Obama never told people to riot and burn things down.

    That's been my point all along. President Obama's rhetoric had nothing to do with causing racial division. In fact his presidency had most to do with resolving racial division.

    Glad you agree finally.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Sun, May 14, 2017, at 8:46 PM
  • That's been my point all along. -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Sun, May 14, 2017, at 8:46 PM

    I'm getting dizzy from this spin. First you claim "someone" said something and then argued against it. Then when challenged you lie. No one said it but you.

    More straw man, small man empty points. You're arguing with yourself. And lying to everyone else.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Sun, May 14, 2017, at 8:53 PM
  • *

    Doug: Believe Common has flipped out.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Sun, May 14, 2017, at 9:02 PM
  • *

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Sun, May 14, 2017, at 8:46 PM

    Common, you are ignorant or obtuse, hard to tell.

    As I told YOU yesterday, there are many ways to control people without a direct order.

    Obama's rhetoric had much to do with our current state of race relations. Carefully chosen words.

    It was you and your lies trying to twist what I said into your ludicrous statement that I or someone else had stated it, that is the issue.

    And YOU have not been able to produce.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Sun, May 14, 2017, at 9:10 PM
  • *

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Sun, May 14, 2017, at 9:10 PM

    Wheels: Common has been brain washed by the DNC, MSNBC, and the Anti-Trump News Media of CNN, ABC, NBC, CBS.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Sun, May 14, 2017, at 9:19 PM
  • For about the tenth time...

    You keep talking about "President Obama's rhetoric" and I keep asking what did he say.

    What are those "carefully chosen words?"

    If you don't know what they are, just say so.

    If you want to read his words in support of improving race relations, I'll look them up for you.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Sun, May 14, 2017, at 9:23 PM
  • Let's get the spin master back to his lie.

    ===

    When you try to make factual claims, such as President Obama says people should riot and burn things down, I'd like a link to some valid quotes. -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Sun, May 14, 2017, at 5:32 PM

    Nobody really made that ststemrnt, did they Common? Hearing no more, I will chalk it up as a lie. -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Sun, May 14, 2017, at 8:25 PM

    ===

    Commie's spinning away his lies again.

    -- Posted by Doug Williams 4/24 on Sun, May 14, 2017, at 9:29 PM
  • *

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Sun, May 14, 2017, at 9:23 PM

    Commie

    The words I heard from 8 years of listening to the man. I do not memorize everything I hear. And I do not owe you looking them all up. Since you appear to have recorded every syllable he uttered, look it up yourself.

    You know full well what we are referring to. You tried explaining away a good number of them yourself in one of your word salads.

    The issue is, you tried putting words in other's mouths and got called out on it. You lied!

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Sun, May 14, 2017, at 9:41 PM
  • Posted by Rick Lettau on Sun, May 14, 2017, at 8:38 PM

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

    So what was the point of all that? Was it to justify some headline that said Trump praised Putin?

    How about I write an op-ed headlined Mr. Lettau still praises Obama; news slow to reach some small communities that Obama no longer matters.

    Kinda like the Japanese soldier held up in a cave years after the war ended. :)

    -- Posted by R. W. Bess on Sun, May 14, 2017, at 10:17 PM
  • No, the issue is that you've made claims of there being "carefully chosen words" yet you are incapable of revealing what they are. It appears that these "unknowable" words are what drove you to make false assumptions and arrive at faulty conclusions.

    Seems like another case of "don't confuse me with the facts, I've already made up my mind."

    SO republican/conservatives illogical at its best.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, May 15, 2017, at 12:39 AM
  • Actions are louder then words .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, May 15, 2017, at 6:38 AM
  • Good point…

    The act of Americans electing President Obama, not just once, but twice, is indicative of significantly improving race relations. Incidents like Ferguson and Baltimore are outliers in the larger scheme of things.

    An highly momentous and profound aspect of race relations is that today a black parent can confidently and categorically tell a child that, “Yes, you too could grow up to be President.” A decade and more ago, this statement would have been pure conjecture and greeted with skepticism and disbelief. This may be inconsequential and trifling to some, but I believe it is singularly remarkable to others.

    So yes, President Obama’s emblematic example and actions spoke and still speak louder than words.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, May 15, 2017, at 7:01 AM
  • "...still praises [President] Obama..."

    Not so much "praising," more like defending from unjustified criticism.

    And if he "no longer matters" why are the SO conservatives so still so obsessed with attempting to minimize his accomplishments?

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, May 15, 2017, at 7:07 AM
  • *

    Just continue to live in your land of make believe Commie, I prefer the real world.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Mon, May 15, 2017, at 7:09 AM
  • Back to President Trump's accomplishments...

    "NYC school blocks immigration officer from looking for 4th grade student"

    President Trump had said he would deport criminals and gang members. Perhaps ICE has found it easier to catch 4th graders than criminals.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, May 15, 2017, at 7:13 AM
  • *

    And if he "no longer matters" why are the SO conservatives so still so obsessed with attempting to minimize his accomplishments?

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, May 15, 2017, at 7:07 AM

    Common,

    Maybe the following is the reason many mistrust Obama.........

    "If you had an army some 30,000 strong and a court system stacked over the decades with judges who would allow you to break the laws, how much damage could you do to a country? We are about to find out in America.

     

     

    The ex-president said he was going to stay involved through community organizing and speak out on the issues, and that appears to be one post-administration promise he intends to keep. He has moved many of his administration's top dogs over to an organization called Organizing for Action (OFA). OFA is behind the strategic and tactical implementation of the  resistance we are seeing across America, and politically active courts are providing the leverage for this revolution.

    Click here: Organizing for Action

     

    OFA is dedicated to organizing communities for "progressive" change. Issues are gun control, socialist healthcare, abortion, sexual equality, climate change, and of course, immigration reform.

     

    OFA members were propped up by the ex-president's message from the shadows:

    "Organizing is the building block of everything great we've accomplished. Organizers around the country are fighting for change in their communities-and OFA is one of the groups on the front lines...Commit to this work in 2016 and beyond."

     

    OFA's website says it obtained its "digital" assets from the ex-president's re-election effort and that he inspired the movement. In short, it's the shadow government organization aimed at resisting and tearing down the Constitutional Republic.

    Paul Sperry, writing for the New York Post, says OFA  will fight President Donald Trump at every turn of his presidency and the ex-president "will command them from a bunker less than two miles from the White House." Sperry writes that the ex-president is setting up a shadow government to sabotage the incoming administration through a network of  non-profits led by OFA, which is growing its war chest (more than $40 million) and has some 250 offices nationwide. OFA IRS filings, according to Sperry, indicate OFA has 32,525 volunteers nationwide. The ex-president and his wife will oversee the operation from their home/ office near the White House.

     

    Think about how this work, for example: Trump issues an immigration executive order; OFA signals for protests and statements from pro-immigrant groups; ACLU lawyers file lawsuits in jurisdictions where activist judges obstruct the laws; volunteers are called to protest at airports and Congressional town hall meetings; the leftist media springs to action; the twitter sphere lights up with social media; violence follows- all emanating from the ex-president's signal that he is heartened by the protests.

     

    If Barack Obama did not do enough to destroy this country in the 8 years he was in office, it appears his future plans are to destroy the foundation on which this country has operated on for the last 241 years."

    There was no name to attribute the above to, but the fact that Obama cannot go away quietly and let the people's choice serve his country unmolested speaks volumes.

    Make of it what you wish.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Mon, May 15, 2017, at 7:23 AM
  • *

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, May 15, 2017, at 7:13 AM

    Is that the whole story Commie, or were they trying to send the child home with his law breaking parent(s)?

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Mon, May 15, 2017, at 7:27 AM
  • -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, May 15, 2017, at 7:01 AM

    ETO clouds your limited mine :

    December 29, 1890 , a gathering for the annual Ghost Dance was mistaken for a War Dance .

    Killed : 98 men , 65 women , 24 children

    (Non-fatal injuries...45 wounded)

    Actions speak louder then words .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, May 15, 2017, at 7:30 AM
  • Back to President Trump's accomplishments...

    .................

    When did they leave ?

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, May 15, 2017, at 7:32 AM
  • *

    "Not so much "praising," more like defending from unjustified criticism."

    That also is a lie. You once long ago made a similar statement, further stating to the effect you would do the same for any President.

    Yet less than 24 hours after Trump won the election you started a thread to criticise the man.

    Try sticking to facts or admit you are nothing but a political hack.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Mon, May 15, 2017, at 7:44 AM
  • "...let the people's choice serve his country unmolested speaks volumes."

    His "service" to the country should also respect the majority of the American population that did not vote for him.

    "Make of it what you wish."

    I'd suggest that you are the one living in a "dream world" in which any relation to reality is purely coincidental. Are you saying that you actually believe all this "shadow government" nonsense?

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, May 15, 2017, at 8:02 AM
  • *

    Yet less than 24 hours after Trump won the election you started a thread to criticise the man.

    Try sticking to facts or admit you are nothing but a political hack.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Mon, May 15, 2017, at 7:44 AM

    Wheels: That about sums up the actions and thinking of the Snowflake "Common" and the others who can't accept that Hillary lost....it must have been the Russians, leaked emails, or a host of reasons that Hillary went down for the second time in defeat.

    This message is not to offend anyone and if it does I am deeply sorry for any necessary medical/mental treatment that one incurs.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Mon, May 15, 2017, at 8:03 AM
  • "...effect you would do the same for any President."

    That's correct. If you make unjustified criticism of President Trump, I'll defend him too.

    "...after the election you started a thread to criticise the man."

    The purpose of the thread was primarily to document what he said. If you want to consider that "self-criticism" that's your choice.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, May 15, 2017, at 8:07 AM
  • *

    "His "service" to the country should also respect the majority of the American population that did not vote for him."

    Questionable plurality Common. Just to correct your misnomer.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Mon, May 15, 2017, at 8:12 AM
  • "...others who can't accept that Hillary lost....it must have been the Russians, leaked emails, or a host of reasons..."

    Mr. Schaefer, you must have a short memory. Here's what was said just yesterday:

    "As I've said all along is that she lost because of her e-mails and the resulting, successful republican effort to paint her as untrustworthy and crooked.

    Neither is any more true of her, than it is of all other politicians, but they made it stick well enough."

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Sun, May 14, 2017, at 10:20 AM

    Why would you think I can't accept that she lost?

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, May 15, 2017, at 8:19 AM
  • *

    His "service" to the country should also respect the majority of the American population that did not vote for him.-- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, May 15, 2017, at 8:02 AM

    Common: There you go again....the California vote totals were tainted due to that State letting Illegals receive drivers licenses which could be use at the voting sites as ID but not as being a US citizen. How many of that California population is Illegal - millions. How shut up about that majority stuff because it don't hold water. BTW, this info comes from my brother-in-law who has lived in California for 60 years.

    This message is not to offend anyone and if it does I am deeply sorry for any necessary medical/mental treatment that one incurs.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Mon, May 15, 2017, at 8:25 AM
  • *

    "As I've said all along is that she lost because of her e-mails and the resulting, successful republican effort to paint her as untrustworthy and crooked."

    She did something illegal Common and Republicans not only had the right but the duty to point it out. Her home server was illegal. Comey admitted she was guilty, but should not be prosecuted. It was not his job to decide if she should be prosecuted, but even if it were, why shouldn't she be prosecuted?

    That and other stupid actions is what got Comey fired. Something the Democrats were for before they were against it.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Mon, May 15, 2017, at 8:27 AM
  • People did not vote for Trump , they rejected the Obama/Clinton agenda . Why the ETO won't admit this is an enigma . As terrible as Trump is really makes the ETO and the Obama/Clinton look bad , real bad . 8 years of fund raising did little , if nothing . Clinton has been as quiet as a church mouse , Obama is just now coming out of the closet probably just because of the negative landslide attitude toward Trump at this time would be my guess .

    Either that or he's trying to do a big PR push for his new $60 million dollar book and speaking fees . His legacy is shattered , his PPACA is imploding .

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, May 15, 2017, at 8:38 AM
  • *

    Common

    Common

    I might add, the Democrats never had a viable candidate in the race this past election season.

    They need to get back to reality if they want to win elections. Reasonable people still outnumber the fringe lunatics in this country.

    Obama tries running his Shadow Government, he might just step in it and wind up with a charge of treason on his resume.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Mon, May 15, 2017, at 8:39 AM
  • btw...the new world wide virus "wannacry" creators have finally been tracked down and caught . It's two 20 year old kids that brought the world to it's knees who created the virus . This got me to thinking , if two 20 year old kids can create a virus like this , how can anyone say with a straight face they don't know who's hacking what or where any e-mails may have dis-appeared .

    I smell something fishy in smallville...

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, May 15, 2017, at 8:44 AM
  • Wheels

    Obama destructed the Democratic Party all by himself .

    You'll never get the ETO to believe it though ...

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, May 15, 2017, at 8:45 AM
  • *

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, May 15, 2017, at 7:13 AM

    Common: Here's the real story and not just a few words from you to jab Trump:

    "In a statement sent to CBS2, a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services spokesperson said “While I cannot discuss the details of the case, I can confirm that two USCIS officials visited an elementary school in Maspeth, Queens as part of an administrative inquiry pertaining to an immigration benefit request.”

    “Although school visits are not routine in these circumstances, they are not unprecedented,” the statement continued. “I must emphasize that the purpose of the visit was to verify certain facts about the student’s enrollment in relation to a request for an immigration benefit. At no time did the officers ask to see or speak with the student, who was not the subject of the administrative inquiry.”http://newyork.cbslocal.com/2017/05/14/immigration-agent-queens-school/

    *******

    "As I've said all along is that she lost because of her e-mails and the resulting, successful republican effort to paint her as untrustworthy and crooked."-- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, May 15, 2017, at 8:19 AM

    Common: No need for Republican effort to paint her as untrustworthy and crooked because she was and that's a fact Jack....read Comey's July 2016 speech entitled - Hillary Given a Get Out Jail Free Card (compliments of the secret Bill and Lynch airport meeting and payoff).

    This message is not to offend anyone and if it does I am deeply sorry for any necessary medical/mental treatment that one incurs.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Mon, May 15, 2017, at 8:49 AM
  • *

    -- Posted by Rick Scaggs on Mon, May 15, 2017, at 8:45 AM

    I agree with that. Worst thing ever happened to this country. Part of the problem, the Republicans did not run their best against him either time.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Mon, May 15, 2017, at 9:10 AM
  • *

    Out of here to attend granddaughters awards ceremony....check back later today to see more of Commons mis-truths.

    -- Posted by David Schaefer on Mon, May 15, 2017, at 9:14 AM
  • *

    Since this thread is getting so massive, we're setting up a new thread to help make things more manageable.

    Link to new thread: http://www.semissourian.com/forums/speakout/thread/10878

    -- Posted by James Baughn (Webmaster, Southeast Missourian) on Mon, May 15, 2017, at 9:25 AM
  • Good idea.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, May 15, 2017, at 11:02 AM
  • "Questionable plurality..."

    Not when 10 million voters did not vote for him.

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

    "BTW, this info comes from my brother-in-law who has lived in California for 60 years."

    Still there's no evidence of that.

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

    "Her home server was illegal."

    Unwise maybe, but not illegal.

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

    "Reasonable people still outnumber the fringe lunatics in this country."

    Good thing as shown by the 71 million voters that did not vote for Trump.

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

    "...his Shadow Government..."

    ...which is purely imaginary.

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

    "No need for Republican effort to paint her as untrustworthy and crooked..."

    Actually there was, otherwise she could have won against Trump.

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

    "[President] Obama destructed the Democratic Party.."

    Actually he did not, but feel free to think so.

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

    End of Obama/Hillary whining...

    Go to new thread.

    -- Posted by Rick Lettau on Mon, May 15, 2017, at 12:30 PM
  • *

    ""No need for Republican effort to paint her as untrustworthy and crooked..."

    Actually there was, otherwise she could have won against Trump."

    Common the whole country knew what Hillary Clinton was. Didn't take this election to educate people on that. Her misdeeds go back to before Slick was President.

    And why would you whine about that with the character assignation you Leftist Democrats did to Trump.

    He won, and you immediately started your whining about it. Get over it. It grows really old.

    Trump is far from perfect but he sure beats what we would have received from a Hillary Presidency.

    -- Posted by Ralph VanGennip on Mon, May 15, 2017, at 5:29 PM

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