George Rebane
Columnists from the national (Victor Davis Hanson) to our local (George Boardman) scene have concluded that Donald Trump may actually be hitting a nerve with voters who are sick and tired of politicians side-stepping and mealy-mouthing important issues like the illegal alien influx and crime, immigration policy, and how to deal with a dangerous and failing Mexico. VDH writes ‘Donald Trump and the Fed-up Crowd’, a compelling piece that concludes –
To explain the inexplicable rise of Donald Trump is to calibrate the anger of a fed-up crowd that is enjoying the comeuppance of an elite that never pays for the ramifications of its own ideology. The elite media, whose trademark is fad and cant, writes off the fed-up crowd as naïve and susceptible to demagoguery as the contradictory and hypocritical Trump manipulates their anger. In fact, they probably got it backwards. Trump is a transitory vehicle of the fed-up crowd, a current expression of their distaste for both Democratic and Republican politics, but not an end in and of himself. The fed-up crowd is tired of being demagogued to death by progressives, who brag of “working across the aisle” and “bipartisanship” as they ram through agendas with executive orders, court decisions, and public ridicule. So the fed-ups want other conservative candidates to emulate Trump’s verve, energy, eagerness to speak the unspeakable, and no-holds barred Lee Atwater style — without otherwise being Trump.
Where our columnist does expend some ink is in solving the border security problem. There he presents a solution that does not include “building a fence at the Mexican border from the Pacific Ocean to the Gulf of Mexico.” For the interested reader, such a secure piece of national infrastructure would cost less to build than an equivalent length of any interstate highway of the kind that crisscross our nation. Its subsequent maintenance and patrolling to reduce ingress rates would also cost less than the many alternative more porous solutions offered by the left, including Mr Boardman.
But here it’s also important to note the mental framework from which such interpretations of US culpability and plans forward arise. Mr Boardman succumbs to the prevalent progressive perspective that our building a more secure border would be the equivalent of erecting something that is “probably no more effective than the Berlin Wall” with all of its concomitant “bad optics.” He does not seem to understand the restrictive direction of the Berlin Wall, and that it was very effective for the reason it was built – to stop the mass exodus of Germans from east to west. Its downside arose as a ready symbol reminding the world that governance by communism does require a police state.
And there our columnist doubles down by claiming because of our “checkered history” in handling immigration, “there is an important point to be made about controlling our national borders. But how do we do that and weed out illegal immigrants (sic) without creating a police state.” The rationale behind this statement is mind boggling – in the least it indicates a massive confusion about the purpose of walls and fences regarding whether they are to prevent ingress or egress. Let me expand on the specifics.
First, America undeniably has had the most salutary and beneficent immigration policy in human history. Only those who subscribe to the ‘America last’ political philosophy would fault our not conducting a policy that was anything but indifferent to our interests, while putting the interests of would-be immigrants above all. Second, with a secured border it is easy to “weed out” the illegal aliens; they are the ones who are captured after crossing it without permission while violating our laws. Finally, no one with a three-digit IQ would accuse a sovereign nation-state of being a "police state" simply because it makes its own territory accessible only to people who follow its ingress laws that define the granting of visas and its immigration process (recall, that contrary to illegal entry, immigration involves a two-party agreement). So Mr Boardman, whose IQ clearly sports the required digits, should have his fears laid to rest about an America with secure borders becoming a police state.
Circling back to Trump and the Republican candidates, my own assessment continues that Trump’s discovery of America’s sensitive nerves about illegal aliens, fiscal policy, foreign policy, wealth creation, welfare, etc does not require rocket science, but merely a level of audacity and courage to say, no matter how indelicately, what millions of Americans have been thinking. I don’t think he has any chance of becoming the ‘man on the white horse’ of US politics that he thinks he is. But I believe his continued outrages will put some starch in the spines of the otherwise more mainstream Republicans. We await how their respective messaging bends toward those issues.
Finally, readers may recall that, while I believe in a more pluralistic political landscape for America, I also believe that any solo third party will by its entry sink the chances of its closest ideological neighbor. My only fear about The Donald is that he will pull a Ross Perot, and torpedo any one of the many fine and qualified Republican candidates making it to 1600 Pennsylvania. Were that to be in our future, I would consider running through the streets wailing, ‘Bernie, where is your Socialist Party of America when we really need it?!!’
[2aug15 update] We seldom watch live TV, but always DVR programs for later viewing or not. Watching Republican candidates being interviewed has been a frustrating experience. Our vaunted broadcast journalists have all turned to huckstering for the cheap thrills of competitive campaigning, instead of focusing their interviews on the candidates’ positions on issues and plans forward should they become president. I’ll use Chris Wallace’s Sunday program on Fox News for examples, but you can find equivalent ones on any channel.
Wallace interviewed Ohio's Governor Kasich and did everything he could to divert the man from talking about his record and positions. Wallace wanted the focus to be on what Kasich thought about other Republican candidates. At one point the frustrated question was asked, ‘Well what could any president do?’ in response to Kasich trying to talk about the future. Kasich was a bit flustered, and missed his opportunity for the correct answer – ‘Chris, a sitting president can do a lot and has a tremendous impact on the condition and direction of the nation. Look at the disaster Obama has been able to create during his six years at America’s helm, especially in his domestic and foreign policies, the economy, bureaucratic corruption, and extra-constitutional power grabs. I intend to repair as much of that damage as possible during my tenure in the White House.’
Then former Texas governor Rick Perry was interviewed. Again, Wallace fought tooth and nail against Perry reminding people of his record as governor and his response to today’s critical issues ranging from the Iran deal to border security. Instead, our intrepid journalist kept asking Perry questions (my paraphrasing) like, ‘Hey, you really f*^ked up in your 2012 debates. How do feel about that, and do you think you’ll f*^k up again this time?’, and ‘Trump is really on the rag about you, he’s telling everyone how you’re trying to hide your room temperature IQ behind the glasses (let me play a few clips). What would you tell him in the upcoming debates?’.
Perry finally took the bait, and gave the viewers what Wallace wanted. His correct answers would have contained points like, ‘Trump comes from a background of an autocratic wheeler-dealer businessman. He admits to not being a debater, but one who issues orders and expects them to be executed without discussion. Trump really wants to become Commander-in-Chief of America and play the same role from the White House. But that’s not the way our government with three co-equal branches is supposed to work.’ And another time Perry should have said, ‘Trump’s political beliefs and social policies have been all over the map, and no one knows for sure where they are today. For example, he may still believe in delivering up single-payer healthcare. We have to remember that Trump is a former Democrat who today looks as if he’s had a pretty iffy epiphany.’
All this aside, we are looking forward to the best entertainment ever this coming Thursday on Fox News as the first Republican candidates’ debate airs with Trump being the wildcard. Will he suddenly turn on some statesman like charm (can he?), or will he double down as the loose cannon on a careening deck aiming his motor mouth in directions yet unknown?
I was in a discussion with my dental hygienist this morning about politics. She said isn't it terrible there are so many R's running? I said of course not, the more the merrier. I said look at Great Britain just last May. When the votes are tallied all the candidates for a MP are on stage in every district. Sometimes there are ten or more! Still the outcome is usually down to two in the end. Same here. We have all these people running bringing in all these points of view. America is a better place when we have such interest in running the place.
Trump says a lot of things that have stirred them up. Cruz too. Carly is coming on and I hope she gets into the first debate. She and Trump are the only ones smacking Hillary.
Posted by: Todd Juvinall | 27 July 2015 at 12:13 PM
LOL on that "dump Trump" picture. OF COURSE illegals would say NO!.
The real good thing is that a huge minority of illegals will get away with voting against him.
Trump is the LIBS worst nightmare. Even plenty of DEMS has said he has their vote.
( obviously none of ours)
Posted by: Walt | 27 July 2015 at 01:00 PM
Carly is COMING ON? LOL. Where, when, how? No chance for a Top Ten slot at the first debate, unless Fox changes the rules once they realize they are excluding the only woman running.. That may not look so good, but they don't appear particularly concerned about the female vote in 2016... With a weakened and subpar Hillary as likely Dem, the Repubs once again know how to self destruct.
Bernie is by no means done however, and Joe may still make a go of it yet!
Posted by: Jon | 27 July 2015 at 02:19 PM
Here you go guys
http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/the-fix/wp/2015/07/27/donald-trumps-surge-is-heavily-reliant-on-less-educated-americans-heres-why/
Posted by: George Boardman | 27 July 2015 at 02:22 PM
The poll and its story are hooey. Washington Post does a lib poll and then reports on it. What a scam.
Posted by: Todd Juvinall | 27 July 2015 at 02:38 PM
.......Joe may still make a go of it yet!
Please god make it so!
A campaign season with the Biden Gaffe Factory working at full capacity restoreth my soul.
Posted by: fish | 27 July 2015 at 03:24 PM
They don't call it the Washington compost for nothing. A LIB rag, for LIBS on the rag.
Posted by: Walt | 27 July 2015 at 03:27 PM
Already knew the education and intelligence level of people supporting Trump. But nice to see it in official format.
Posted by: Jon | 27 July 2015 at 03:32 PM
Really "jon"?,, Look what elected "O". The nation is so pissed at LIBS,, look at what "your side" is only able to muster up. A washed up witch, who is about to be indicted and a radical Commie.
And things didn't go all that great at "O"'s family reunion..( Gotta love his "native Son" admission)
http://dailycaller.com/2015/07/27/obamas-kenyan-brother-barack-is-not-an-honest-man/
Posted by: Walt | 27 July 2015 at 03:52 PM
Walt,
That bluster and lack of substance fits right in with how you roll. I got it. But unfortunately, Trump will not survive. The Repub power structure and big money PACS will see to it that their money placed toward the fair-haired favorites are not pre-empted by Trump.
Posted by: Jon | 27 July 2015 at 04:05 PM
I get a kick out of the super smarties that call those who have different experiences dumb....as they follow their theologian leaders like robots.
Protesters using Soros Grant money
These are just a few stories stirring the pot of confusion. It does sound logical how this same strategy is used over and over. Especially since those constitutional conservatives wanting to be non profits were held off and investigated. And the war within continues on and on financed by Grant money from government (taxpayers) and private donations. Only the side being financed to win the war gets the money without being held up and subjected to investigation...Who would have thought there was a conspiracy by the far right extremists if Hillary hadn't warned us. As you read this keep in mind we live in a very deceptive society that says and does all kinds of things for profit.
http://www.newsmax.com/Newsfront/Ferguson-Missouri-paid-protesters/2015/05/25/id/646587/
http://www.ijreview.com/2015/06/334131-fergusons-mayor-wants-america-know-one-crucial-detail-rioters-city/
http://nationalreport.net/ferguson-gang-leader-admits-eric-holder-paid-us-start-riots/
http://www.snopes.com/politics/business/sorosferguson.asp
Posted by: Bonnie McGuire | 27 July 2015 at 04:08 PM
Now there's a group of reliable outlets! Oh boy. Eric Holder paid people to riot! But where's the Philadelphia Trumpet, Bonnie? LOL.
Posted by: Jon | 27 July 2015 at 04:14 PM
Jon you're the perfect robot. You don't even finish reading because you already know what you are supposed to say to stir the pot. "Who would have thought....if Hillary hadn't warned us. As you read this keep in mind...a deceptive society says and does all kinds of things for profit." You didn't read that did you? Hahaha, maybe you would enjoy reading the book "Clinton Cash," pull your head out of the sand, then look hither and thither to get a broader view of our political world so you can offer something interesting to the discussion instead of being such a boring wet blanket.
Posted by: Bonnie McGuire | 27 July 2015 at 04:43 PM
Trump is awesome! He calls 'em like he sees 'em. I don't want him as the leader of the free world though... maybe ambassador to Iran???
Posted by: Brad C. | 27 July 2015 at 05:13 PM
Bonnie, did I indicate I am a supporter of Hillary? Nope. Lots of questions about her. If she ends up running, she will take a massive percentage of women and Latino voters with her. Your sources are well known fringe rags, and I take no stock in them, and certainly not the sensational, red-meat tossing headlines. The Philadelphia Trumpet that I mentioned is a far right magazine, with takes on today's news based on biblical prophecy. It would be a nice complement to Newsmax for example, if that's in your reading list.
Anything of substance from either Walt or Todd besides childish retorts?
Posted by: Jon | 27 July 2015 at 05:19 PM
Walt @ 4:51 today.
Whatz wrong with hitting the bong too early? Or too late? Just don't drink the hukka tea without first adding some honey and lemon grass.
https://www.yahoo.com/health/brain-eating-amoeba-shows-up-in-louisiana-tap-125170465647.html
Opps, off topic and just don't drink the bong water, especially jon's. Ok, back on topic.
Seems this Trump thang is causing problems. All the problems are laid on the shoulders of the Republicans. Article after article forecasts DOOM for the Republican Party along with some posters here who are stuck with holding their collective nose and voting for Hillary.
Just today, there are articles than Rush says Trump is unelectableand may coattail doom for the Party. Another article about how Bernie Sanders spells doom for the Republican Party. Then, only dumb and dumber would vote for Trump. Now this:
http://www.vox.com/2015/7/26/9041163/donald-trump-poll-Republicans
Holy Macarel. This Trump Problem seems to be getting worse and growing like gangrene. He ain't my guy, but maybe I will check him out sometime. At least he is getting some passionate reactions all over the map.
Trump vs Sanders would be the Ultimate Cage Match. Make that Sanders vs Trump, my gross mistake. Age before beauty. Ok, two men enter, one man leaves. And finally Paul Eee and all voters would get a choice between the "two". Interesting developments and not one of the two was a former Gov. or life long politician...Opps, well one of the two is an outsider.
Did you hear Trump's reaction to one of his Republican opponents when that opponent's aide called Trump stupid. Oh my. He certainly has a way with words. :)
Posted by: Bill Tozer | 27 July 2015 at 05:30 PM
Jon, I have an old friend who always claimed she's a liberal of liberals, but never listens to anyone except one viewpoint. Her husband is a retired college professor. This is how it is regarding research from my experience.
An old friend and I were chatting over lunch at the Holbrooke Hotel when our conversation suddenly swerved onto the subject of the Internet. "You're on the net?" I asked, hoping that we could exchange email. "No, I don't even own a computer, but I think you should know something. Most universities won't accept thesis material taken from the net." I was past that anyway, but enjoy convenient communication, and the tremendous array of information about everything. I assured my friend that although the university stance may have some validity, most researchers know you need many sources of information to reach an informed conclusion. The subject dropped when I mentioned that one's experiences have more than a little influence on how we think. I was thinking about a bizarre experience that changed my life.
Posted by: Bonnie McGuire | 27 July 2015 at 05:55 PM
Bill. Trump is that fresh air we need. He is getting the same crap Reagan did when he ran for Gov. of Ca.
Trump is looking better and better, and besides. He can't be bought.
Posted by: Walt | 27 July 2015 at 06:45 PM
Yo Walt. See how quickly they dropped on the Ruff and Redeye Fire. I saw smoke, I saw a spotter plane, I saw an air tanker. No messing around with fires like the friggin Forest Service does. Here in these parts when not dealing with Federal Land, we hit it with everything and even air drop the kitchen sink. No waiting for a plan or approval from Washington. Our boys hit it hard and with the full shebang. No such thing as overkill.
But that Shirttail fire last year or the year before in the North Fork of the American River Gorge went from 3 acres to a few hundred acres before the local US Forest Service firefighters could lift a finger waiting for authorization to employee assets. That sucks. Not the personnel, they system they are forced to adhere to. CDF had a different approach. Where there is smoke, cut the snake's head off and stomp it into the ground before it can get away.
Oh yeah. Trump is quite refreshing. Drives the asswipes batty, lol.
Posted by: Bill Tozer | 27 July 2015 at 07:00 PM
Now why in Hell someone is out with a mower today (that's what started it) is crazy.
Now I have a good idea where you are. Stay safe my friend. We are just getting started.
Good thing PV and R&R work close together. Yup,, our crews break speed records getting out of the barn. I sure do miss those days. 10 years as a volunteer in PV fire, then the politics and money got in the way. that's when paid firefighters first started showing up here. ( from the cities)
Love it. Trump is making "O"'s skin crawl. The more LIBS attack him, the more his poll ratings go up. You get no apologies from Trump, and he stands by what he says. Unlike the Repub cowards.
Posted by: Walt | 27 July 2015 at 07:17 PM
Walt, LOL..Trump is not make Obama's skin crawl. He's had multiple good laughs about that clown over the years.
Posted by: Jon | 27 July 2015 at 07:56 PM
man, my grammar sounded like Walt. My very bad.
Posted by: Jon | 27 July 2015 at 07:57 PM
Oh and Tozer, that reminds me, I haven't had a bong hit in...32 years! Wow, how the years have flown. Hate impairing the lungs. But if we're counting gallons of good wine, I do have a leg up.
Posted by: Jon | 27 July 2015 at 08:01 PM
LOL
Posted by: Don Bessee | 27 July 2015 at 09:10 PM
Box or twist top?
Sure Trump is. "O" is already make cheap shots.
Posted by: Walt | 27 July 2015 at 09:39 PM
"Sure Trump is. O is already make cheap shot". Walt
Sounds like an illegal immigrant to me. Refuses to learn our language. I'd get ICE check out this guy.
Posted by: Jon | 27 July 2015 at 09:42 PM
hey Don Bessee, you would not believe the horrendous home grown pot they served up in my dorm during freshman year in college. Guy down the hall was growing in his closet and it was RAW. Was sick for a month after a particularly long night after a party. Never wanted to partake again after that year.
Posted by: Jon | 27 July 2015 at 09:46 PM
Well Jon, I have never even owned a bong. Good ole soda can with a paperclip to punch some holes in it and a thumb depression worked fine for a uncouth lout such as Moi back in the day. Trouble is I can't seem to recall which day "back in the day" was. But, I am improving in my social skills and have upgraded to the fine art of communication. Moi is Frenchie talk, BTW, which adds a little class. If I keep this up, I will get a nose bleed from my lofty perch.
So, vino by the gallon box, eh? Or was that gallons of vino that pickled your mind? Can you remember the exact moment when your cucumber brain turned into a pickle? Me neither. But wine is smooth, goes right thru you and out the fingertips. Haven't touched a drop in pert near 24 years, but every once in awhile a cheapo half dog of Thunderbird or White Port sounds inviting to wet my whistle. Then some Gin and Toxic chased with hot Saki and fine Brandy, before the Boilermakers. Yep, I was such an alcohol whore back in one of those days.
Yes, you definitely have a leg up. No argument or debate here. You got a leg up just like a dog on a fire plug. You get the prize, my fellow rusty zippered vagabond.
Men are from Mars, Jon is from some other planet. :)
Me bad. Off topic.
Breaking News!!! New national NBC-Huffington Post poll just released 4 minutes ago shows Trump had captured the Hispanic vote and leads all Democrat contenders in the Latino community by wide margins. Trump preferred among likely voters 64% to Hillary's 23% to Sander's 6 % with the rest declining to state out of fear of deportation.
Yep, this Trump Problem is gaining momentum and the challengers just don't have enough money to make him go away like Slick Willy did to make Jesse Jackson pack up his suitcase with 6 million dollars (US) and simply go away. This Trump flash in the pan thing looks like he is moving on in to the guest room and staying awhile.
News at 11.
Posted by: Bill Tozer | 27 July 2015 at 10:05 PM
BT Yippee! What Donald Trump has done is reveal exactly how people Re feeling whether you like him or not! It's pretty hard to believe anyone running for political positions anymore. The TV media making so much money from elections has totally corrupted the process.
Posted by: Bonnie McGuire | 27 July 2015 at 10:52 PM
Here is a GOOD write up on Trump.
Hay Bill,, did you write this? it sure has your flare.
http://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2015/07/28/bnthe-nuclear-option-teflon-don-trump-would-be-rampaging-bull-in-federal-china-shop/
OH I can't wait to see him debate Hildabeast. She will probably "bump" her melon and "just can't make the gig".
Speaking of the beast, she stumps on "green" again, then hops on a gross polluter of a private jet. ( and on who's buck??)
Hear of her " a solar farm in every yard" threat? China is itching for that business.
Posted by: Walt | 28 July 2015 at 12:43 PM
He will not win the Repub nomination Walt, so your dream matchup may not happen unless he runs Indy and gathers more than about 10% in the polling. I would think Clinton will have a hard time containing her laughter when he's blustering and ranting.
Posted by: Jon | 28 July 2015 at 01:16 PM
In your dreams "jon", its the people that choose, not the establishment.
Bush is a RINO and the people know it.
Hildabeast will cry victimization after Trump uses her like the broom she road in on.
Posted by: Walt | 28 July 2015 at 01:20 PM
Jon 106pm - "He will not win the Repub nomination ...", you speak with such certitude Jon. How did you come to know all this stuff?
Posted by: George Rebane | 28 July 2015 at 01:21 PM
George
Trump will not win the nomination because he is too independent. He will never get the support of Wall Street and Big Money or the international corps that run the show. The support middle of the roaders like Bush and Clinton who have been bought out fair and square and even have the receipts to prove it. Romney and Obama were perfect for them in the last election and it didn't matter who won. Bush, Clinton? No problem.
Posted by: Psaul Emery | 28 July 2015 at 01:41 PM
Posted by: Jon | 28 July 2015 at 12:00 PM
Onto more important items of PROGRESS. One Day All Time record for Renewables in use in a modern nation. Exciting stuff.
Nahh...that's just technology.......the link below is the PROGRESSIVE wet dream! Exciting stuff.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/terrorism-in-the-uk/11323558/Anti-terror-plan-to-spy-on-toddlers-is-heavy-handed.html
Cross posted on "Sandbox 26 July"
Posted by: fish | 28 July 2015 at 01:43 PM
George, I agree 100% with Paul. Do you think that group of 16 other egotistical, professional establishment politicians- and their gigante $$$ handlers, backers and PACS-who have spent years of their lives, and spent collectively BILLIONS of dollars planning already for 2016- are going to sit back and let Trump have the nomination? No way, no how. Something's likely to happen, something very bizarre I bet. Perhaps the political equivalent of Tonya Harding taking out Nancy Kerrigan..
Posted by: Jon | 28 July 2015 at 01:52 PM
Posted by: Jon | 28 July 2015 at 01:52 PM
...and people wonder why I regard the entire process as little more than high comedy!
Posted by: fish | 28 July 2015 at 01:57 PM
Also Walt, blowhards like Trump who is burning hot and bright right now, will eventually have to start talking specifics and realistic specifics at that. All the bluster, huffing and puffing, will have to be backed up with an iota of substance at some point. Trump cannot insult and attack his way to the nomination, much less the Presidency. At some point, a positive message with real feeling has to come out, and if not, he will get slaughtered in the General Election if he somehow makes it to November. Trump has not shown any ability to exhibit humility or communicating messages of basic humanity to make people feel good. In the General, his base is not enough.
Posted by: Jon | 28 July 2015 at 02:01 PM
fish, we share the same opinion on this process..
I will say I feel sorry for people like Rick Santorum and John Kasich, both serious and sincere about helping the poor and middle class and improving America, in their own way. Cannot even get a mention on TV, much less a debate podium. John Kasich on paper may have the best credentials of any Presidential candidate in many, many years, and he's going to end up in low single digits.
Posted by: Jon | 28 July 2015 at 02:10 PM
Jon
His base is big enough to give Repubs the hives if he decides to pull a Ross Perot. He can do that and fund his own campaign. Trump seems to be driven by his own ego so there is a real possibility that could happen thus ensuring a Clinton victory.
Posted by: Psaul Emery | 28 July 2015 at 02:13 PM
I love this American process. Where in the world do you see anything similar? Ignorant people like SF and "Jon" can bloviate all they want but they don't know diddly. But it is still their right to be that way. I enjoy listening to all these candidate and what they have to offer. I like to see who is supporting who and how much. I love these debates and how people react to questions. As FISH said it is great theater. And here we all are unafraid the "liberal" though police will show up and arrest you as they do elsewhere.
Posted by: Todd Juvinall | 28 July 2015 at 02:21 PM
Todd writes ""liberal" though police will show up and arrest you as they do elsewhere."
Can you give us a few examples?
Posted by: Psaul Emery | 28 July 2015 at 02:23 PM
Posted by: Psaul Emery | 28 July 2015 at 02:13 PM
As much as I would like to concur with your analysis Psaul I'm beginning to think that if she were to be nominated and win that she's probably going to need to be sworn in while wearing an orange prison jumpsuit.
That's cool.... orange.....it's the new black!
Posted by: fish | 28 July 2015 at 02:23 PM
Great NYTimes piece on this subject today.
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/07/24/opinion/trump-is-the-poison-his-party-concocted.html
Posted by: Jon | 28 July 2015 at 02:43 PM
Paul, agree, and I think as we stand right now, he is likely to end up as an Indy candidate, splitting the vote with either Bush or Walker. Regardless, a bad outcome for Repubs no matter how you slice it down. But as the Times piece points out, the Party encouraged this stuff, and is now paying the price.
LOL. I look up and instead of commenting on the subject, Todd is out again attacking people on here for no real reason.
Posted by: Jon | 28 July 2015 at 02:47 PM
Never happen Fish. Even Agnew walked away and they caught him accepting actual bags of cash whild sitting in his White House office. What do you imagine they would cuff her for?
Posted by: Psaul Emery | 28 July 2015 at 03:11 PM
On topic: a quick glance at Yahoo News just now reveals most of today's news is more Hillary problems and THE DONALD rocking the Republican boat. Upsetting the apple cart if you will.
I am 100% in agreement with Jon concerning my man, Gov John K from Ohio. A real straight shooter and pragmatic. I'll take a pragmatic over a wild ideologue most of the time. Sadly, no articles or mention of him today. But he done got himself elected first during the waning days of Watergate when the Republicans were getting their clocks cleaned.
I have noticed that our progressive posters here are mysteriously quiet on their gal, Hillary. More "trouble" for her as she refused to answer questions on Keystone today. Said if the issue is still around when she is President, she will answer the question then. Hmmm. In a hope we all should be rooting for our gal to sit in the Oval Office just so we can get some questions answered. She must have cut a deal with Obama cause she just won't "go there". To become a Dem President lately, all you have to do is not answer any specific questions (especially questions that are narrow in scope) and just say you are here to help the poor as the war chest grows and grows.
I am pleasantly surprised at all this interest our liberal brothers and sisters and combinations of the former and latter have shown in the Republican race for 2016. Guess it's more interesting and more newsworthy than defending Hillary in her many many hours of need. Darn, that woman needs to catch a break or have manna fall from heaven.
Before you all write the obits for the Republican Party for the umpteenth time, there are many miles to go on the road to the White House. Guess the new buzz word of the week is DOOM , as in THE DONALD and what he will do to the Republican Party. Glad all you progressives are squealing in delight and have taken such a great, if not mysterious, look at the canadates from the Great Right Wing Conspiracy., aka, The Donald nowadays.
All this gloom and doom talk reminds me of the label President G H Walket Bush put on the gloom and doomers. He called you "naysayers". Well, I admit it didn't work out for him against a smooth talking challenger, William Jeffereson Clinton, but the label naysayer was in vogue for awhile. Bet you all wish Hillary had at least half of Bill's charm. Strike that. I bet you naysayers wish Hillary the Baggage Lady had one drop of charm and two drops of smoothe in her blood, but it was not meant to be.
The other exciting news the Republicans can boast about is Jenner is a Republican, a little known fact. Don't know if Bruce is going to have to rerigister after the recent name change or not, but all the action and excitement right now is on the Right Side of the aisle judging by the media and progressive poster comments here.
We Republicans are having ourselves a rodeo and all spectators are asked to remain in the stands. Ride 'Em cowboy!
Posted by: Bill Tozer | 28 July 2015 at 03:43 PM
Note to "jon". The masses do the electing. Not Wall st. Not a hand full of "rich guys".
WE the people say who is the nominee. Not the political establishment. ( unless it's the Progressive party. That's how "O" got in there, and Hilary got shafted hard and dry)
So just what's your authority that Trump will be put out in the cold? DO tell!
How many LIBS will it take to play "turncoat" and vote once for Bush, the vote for Hilary?
As I said before. Nothing is sticking to "Teflon Don". Hell! Even the press is using that now. The more LIBS and RINOS try and smear, the more he goes up in the polls.
Enjoy the spanking Trump is going to give LIBS.
Posted by: Walt | 28 July 2015 at 05:31 PM
Ok, I have a serious question for Steve Frisch and/or an equilivent authority. Serious, not kidding for once. Honest, not joking around.
Here's the background. I just came back from the laundromat in PV. In the trash was the front page of the Sac Bee, July 22, 15. The headline and accomplying picture was Gov. Brown addressing a group of international majors with black shirted crucifix adorned Catholic priest behind him. The caption read unequivocally that Brown says we must turn the tide of Climate Change or "humanity will face extinction."
In a moment of clarity, it hit me like a ton of bricks he actually truly believes that. Not just spouting words in the limelight pandering to the Eco-nuts or political allies, not just believing in alternative sources of energy, or sustainability, but rather a clear concise core belief believing our present path will led to the extinction of humanity.
I did not do anything but glance at the paper on top of the trash...er...recycle bin.
So, here is the question in all earnest:
Do you believe that Climate Change, Global Warming, whichever term you prefer, will lead to the extinction of humanity??? No tricks up my sleeve. Just want to know.
I want to know because I really did not think you guys were doing more than symbolic gestures (like PETA), or taking it to the local and State levels like MADD's successful long campaign. Sure, solar panels are good and I have the perfect acreage facing west for a field of mirrors. Not opposed to them or wind up radios either. But, somehow I never considered that some truly believe in their heart of hearts that left unchecked, Global Climate Change will literally destroy humanity. That is some serious shit. Very serious. If you really believe that, then I must change the way I respond/react to your posts for sure.
I have no ammo to fight this question with, nor do I intend to form a defense/counter attack to your believes nor intend to. iI am not talking about events nor even ideas. Do you believe in the very depths of your being that Gov Brown is spot on??
I would appreciate you expressing your feelings, if not Steve then someone else. No facts or links or long disortations required or needed. Thank you, Bill Tozer.
Posted by: Bill Tozer | 28 July 2015 at 07:18 PM
If anyone doubted if Trump was a lying dirtbag:
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/07/29/us/politics/depositions-show-donald-trump-as-quick-to-exaggerate-and-insult.html
Posted by: Jon | 28 July 2015 at 10:15 PM
Walt, you don't quite understand our electoral system do you? Pease take a few hours to read up on the American Electoral college.
Our founding fathers intentionally make it hard for the "MASSES" to elect a President. They figured correctly that mindless emotion of "masses" was probably not a good way to sustain a democracy.
Thanks.
Posted by: Jon | 28 July 2015 at 10:19 PM
George
Walt needs you to educate him on your view of Mass Democracy.
Posted by: Paul Emery | 28 July 2015 at 10:42 PM
The Daily Trump
Welcome, ladies and gentlemen, to the first issue of your new web home for All Things Trump because, as we say in our slogan, “If Donald’s Not In It, It Never Happened!” (Sort of like that tree falling in the wilderness thing.) We follow the Trump news, so you don’t have to. So if you’re ever feeling a deficit in All Things Trump, you’ll know where to find us. (Also on Twitter, Facebook, and all the ships at sea — especially yachts.)
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There is more here: http://pjmedia.com/diaryofamadvoter/2015/07/29/the-daily-trump/
Posted by: Russ | 29 July 2015 at 07:23 AM
Walt is correct the "masses" do the electing. They vote and the winner then gets the electoral votes as set up in the Constitution. The SCOTUS changed everything years ago and declared "one man, one vote" will now be come the law. So, the masses go to the polls, and whoever wins the states majority, those electoral votes are designated to the "winner take all" column. A couple of states, well maybe one, apportion those votes as to who wins in a Congressional district. I think California should do that. All states can apportion but for some reason that has not caught on. Hmmm.
So maybe Walt is on to something.
Posted by: Todd Juvinall | 29 July 2015 at 07:52 AM
Oh, an I finally got around to reading the Sunday Bee and in the Forum section there was a hitpiece by lamebrain Dana Milbank of the Washington Post trashing g Scott Walker.
He excoriates the great victory the people of Wisconsin accomplished by tossing the public sector union's asses out the door. He claims Walker is "deceitful"! Of course Milbank never mentions the trashing of the Capitol Building by the union thugs or the millions of dollars imported to defeat Walker. I sent a TWEET to Milbank telling him is it any wonder you media types are thought of less than car salesmen. Scumbags.
Posted by: Todd Juvinall | 29 July 2015 at 07:58 AM
For the record - the Founders left us a republic which in effect is a staged democracy where some of our representatives in government were to be elected directly by popular vote, and others were to be elected by the popularly elected representatives. Unfortunately this was changed by the 17th Amendment making all of Congress elected democratically by popular vote. I am not fond of governance by a 'raw democracy' for all the reasons that historically democracies have committed suicide by transforming themselves into autocracies. I like what the Founders wrote into the Constitution they bequeathed us, and have expanded on these thoughts over the years.
Maybe it's time to reopen the debate since today progressives are everywhere pushing for a raw democracy in which the voter franchise is minimized inviting one and all, no matter how uninformed or debilitated, to cast their vote. This surely is the fastest way to achieve their desired end of our being ruled by an autocratic class of elites who know what's best for us all.
Posted by: George Rebane | 29 July 2015 at 08:06 AM
Maybe a new column from you on this?
Posted by: Todd Juvinall | 29 July 2015 at 08:15 AM
Not a bad idea. Todd and Walt can surely use an education in the Electoral College system of electing a President.
Posted by: Jon | 29 July 2015 at 10:05 AM
RE: GeorgeR's 8:06 AM
Are you suggesting we return the days when special interests like the railroads could buy enough state legislators to get their guy "elected" to the U.S. Senate?
That would certainly cut the rabble out of the process.
Posted by: George Boardman | 29 July 2015 at 10:31 AM
GeorgeB 1031am - Have no idea how you deduced that from my 806am. My position on corporate lobbying and welfare has been clear and a public record in these pages for years (see also 'A Conservatarian Credo'). The solution to your implied problem is not more raw democracy (where does it stop?), but reducing the inventory of things that are for sale by and from the government. I do realize that we have two diametrically opposite ideologies at play here.
Posted by: George Rebane | 29 July 2015 at 11:01 AM
"Jon" sure could use some education on the Electoral College and elections in general. What a dunce!
Posted by: Todd Juvinall | 29 July 2015 at 11:05 AM
On the Right,, we think for ourselves and vote for the one we care too.
Todd likes his guy, and I like mine. Notice no bitching or infighting?
Libs on the other hand seem to be told who to vote for. Hilary was the shoe in. Then The men behind the curtain pulled "O" out of the hat. A know nothing, community agitator, who got there only by the color of his skin. " This is they guy you will vote for." and Hilary went down the tubes.
Speaking of Hilary,, she right back to question dodging. " I will answer your question after I'm elected." ( Her response to a yes or no question about the Keystone pipeline.)
Posted by: Walt | 29 July 2015 at 12:36 PM
Walt, no bitching or infighting in the Party? LOL..are you freaking kidding?
Are you blind to the attacks and insults back and forth between your guy and most other candidates, like Scott Walker. Trump just ripped the guy apart as a supposedly effective Governor last week. He was actually correct about Walker.
I LOVE that stuff!
Posted by: Jon | 29 July 2015 at 12:47 PM
Todd, the masses elected Al Gore to the Presidency in 2000 via their popular vote, yet Bush ended up in the WH. Electors apportioned by state elect the President.
Thanks for the opportunity to set you straight.
Posted by: Jon | 29 July 2015 at 12:53 PM
You obviously don't know a thing about the Electoral College "jon". Glad to have straightened you out.
Posted by: Todd Juvinall | 29 July 2015 at 01:31 PM
I guess you can't comprehend "jon".. Todd and I (that means him and me) are not at each other's throats.
Yes, there IS infighting within the Right. The RINOS and establishment GOP against the working stiffs ( Tea Party Conservatives) Today's GOP is LIB lite, and spinless.
Funny thing about LIBS. JFK would never get elected as a dem today. He would be considered a Conservative, even though JFK won with the graveyard vote against Nixon. " He stole it fair and square"- Nixon..
Gore whined and sniveled, and tried to manufacture votes. ( hanging chads, dimpled chads, chads under microscopes looking for the slightest hint of a dent to count,,)
Even in the last election here in Ca.,, "lost" ballots kept "turning up" till LIBS won.
LIBS are GREAT at rigging elections. I bet they can't wait for on line voting.
Posted by: Walt | 29 July 2015 at 01:48 PM
Todd, why do you often post like a 10 year old- repeating everything ass-backward so that your point becomes absurd and foolish?
So, please tell the board here how the Electoral College was set up to have Presidential elections determined by the "masses". LOL. I have an open mind.
Posted by: Jon | 29 July 2015 at 01:49 PM
Now how did this happen??? A LIB indicted? Snow is falling in HELL!
http://dailycaller.com/2015/07/29/indicted-democrat-will-be-replaced-on-house-committee-by-democrat-under-ethics-investigation/
Hopefully the replacement will be replaced soon enough with someone with lesser charges.
I do believe that both will be re elected. LIBS have a habit of doing that.
Posted by: Walt | 29 July 2015 at 01:54 PM
Jon | 29 July 2015 at 01:49 PM
Why do you act like a ten year old "jon"? Tell the readers all about the EC. You claim to be an expert. Have at it.
Posted by: Todd Juvinall | 29 July 2015 at 02:17 PM
It's about damned time those we elect started listing. Some realize that "we" put them in office, and "we" can take them out.
http://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2015/07/29/exclusive-boehner-discouraged-from-bringing-meadows-resolution-up-might-be-embarrassed/
He will be in deeper shit if he fails to bring it up for a vote.
Boehner may be out of a job. ( but count on LIBS to save his ass.)
Posted by: Walt | 29 July 2015 at 02:24 PM
So that we can stop the schoolyard exchange on the Electoral College, here's the scoop -
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electoral_College_(United_States)
Posted by: George Rebane | 29 July 2015 at 02:41 PM
If you take the time to learn about the Electoral vote that elects our President and Vice President you'll understand why some people don't want Voter IDs. While most believe the two leaders of America are elected by popular vote, they are not. A group known as the electors decide the vote on who gets elected. Each state and the District of Columbia have electors that represent the state. Ohio has 18 members of Congress and therefore had 18 electoral votes in the 2012 Pres election. There are 538 electors altogether. Who becomes elector varies from state to state. In some states the political parties nominate the electors. In other states the electors are chosen by popular vote on election day. When it's time for the electors vote for the Pres and Vice Pres, the electors meet the Monday after the second Wednesday in December in their state capital and complete their vote at that meeting. Then the votes are sent to Congress to be approved on January 6 at a 1:00 pm session. If, for whatever reason, the Electoral College is unable to elect the President and Vice President, then the House of Representatives will select the President. In this case, each state in the House gets one vote. If the House is unable to secure the positions, then the Senate will select the President and Vice President. In this scenario, each senator has one vote.
Every four years voters go to the polls and select their candidates for Pres and V Pres. In all but two states, the candidate who gets the majority of votes in the state wins the state's electoral votes. The candidate who wins the majority of votes in a state wins that state's electoral votes. Voters choose which candidate becomes their state's electors. The one who receives the majority of electoral votes (270) wins the Presidency. The number 538 is the sum of the nation's 435 Representatives, 100 Senators, and 3 electors given the District of Columbia.
The Electoral College system distinguishes the United States from other systems where the highest vote getter automatically wins. It's been criticized, but proponents maintain that it ensures the rights of smaller states. So now you have the rest of the story and can understand why those who are against Voter ID want to corrupt the popular vote that determines who are chosen to be electors.
Posted by: Bonnie McGuire | 29 July 2015 at 02:42 PM
If Trump is the clear cut leader "the establishment" will have no excuse or ability to say, "your fired". ( much to "jon"s dismay)
Trump in double digit leads. Even in FL. Seems word of LIBS siding with Bush didn't go over too well.
Posted by: Walt | 29 July 2015 at 02:55 PM
I forgot to add that the populations of California's big cities practically eliminate representation for rural Californians.
Posted by: Bonnie McGuire | 29 July 2015 at 03:00 PM
Walt 255pm - IMHO, Trump is running a dash in marathon. Now that may be the only way to get peer recognition with other Republican candidates. Nevertheless, dashes in marathons usually don't work. Thoughts?
Posted by: George Rebane | 29 July 2015 at 03:10 PM
Excellent analogy George. Totally agree.
Posted by: Jon | 29 July 2015 at 03:22 PM
In a marathon, it's a good plan to get a jump on the other runners. they will always be trying to catch up, and stay winded. My kid runs in them all the time.
Get out front,, and STAY there.
Posted by: Walt | 29 July 2015 at 03:28 PM
Todd, after being called on your childish behavior, you again think its cute to repeat what I say and reverse it? Very, very strange. So show us in that link that George provided where a President is elected by the "masses", or where our Founders desired it to be so.
Posted by: Jon | 29 July 2015 at 03:28 PM
Adding to my 310pm thoughts from a lunch with a friend today. I also believe that Sen Cruz is using Trump as his stalking horse by not criticizing Trump's take on the material issues that reflect what many people are thinking. When Trump fizzles, Cruz will be in the perfect place to pick up the issues trumpeted by Trump that got traction, and in the process may even get Trump to become a major contributor to the Cruz campaign. (If only we could put a cork into Trump's third party ambitions.)
Posted by: George Rebane | 29 July 2015 at 03:31 PM
"If" the GOP stabs Trump in the back because they don't see him as a member of "the club", that will be the death knell for the GOP.(LIB Lite) The voters will see them for what they are. The Tea Party is already taking their place, one election at a time. The GOP isn't Dad's Conservatives anymore. ( I sure miss those brief talks with Reagan when he called.)
Posted by: Walt | 29 July 2015 at 03:51 PM
Walt, your take on marathon strategy was one of the funnier things I've read in a long time! Kudos to you.
GeorgeR, could not agree more on Cruz and Trump. Cruz is staying out of the Trump fray and getting his attention via his Senate disruptions.
Posted by: Jon | 29 July 2015 at 03:51 PM
jon 3:28 PK
Jon, after being called on your childish behavior, you again think its cute to repeat what I say and reverse it? Very, very strange. So show us in that link that George provided where a President is elected by the "masses", or where our Founders desired it to be so.
Posted by: Todd Juvinall | 29 July 2015 at 04:15 PM
Todd, is it a medical problem or what?
Posted by: Jon | 29 July 2015 at 04:31 PM
Trump is unique. We have all been raised and taught a "politician" is someone who works their way up the ladder. Starting local to state to fed. When a person is not the "usual" we all don't know what to do. Look how the media can't get it. It is as if we are in the big meeting room listening to the back and forth among big shots of the business world. I think it is GREAT! So all of us scratch our heads about Trump and just plain don't get it either.
If he burns out he burns out. There may be a "conspiracy" that he is the lead horse for someone else, or a democrat plant to embarrass and discredit R's, or some other shenanigan. But this is so early it is all simply conjecture and BS for anyone to know. If Trump tells us, then we will know. Walker is lurking in the top two or three. He is the man who worked his way up. He has been there.
Hillary slept her way to the top. First with Bill, then maybe Huma. There may be many more. Bernie Sanders lusts just like Jimmy Carter did and maybe this open society we now have makes that a plus. At least for anything goes democrats.
I say the more the merrier now since it is so early. The process weeds them out and mostly those that have staying power have money. This is great classic American theater.
I recall Clinto V Jerry Brown where Moonbeam jumped all over Clinton's peccadilloes and Bill's wife. As well as her Whitewater and "billings". They almost came to blows! They still hate each other.
Or Al Gore making up the primary attack on Dukakis using the black murderer Willie Horton. The dems and the press tried to say it was Bush 1 but it was Gore. Sit back and ejoy.
Posted by: Todd Juvinall | 29 July 2015 at 04:31 PM
Walt, the Repubs are going to stab Trump in the back if he has any hope of getting the nomination. I don't think he will make it that far, but if so, yes, they will figuratively stab him in the back. Something strange will occur. The Party of Billionaires is not going to tolerate being upended by a populist blowhard.
Posted by: Jon | 29 July 2015 at 04:33 PM
Walt, one correction- with few exceptions, nearly all the Tea Party candidates were trounced in their Congressional and Senate races most recently in 2014, so they did not gain ground that year.
Posted by: Jon | 29 July 2015 at 04:34 PM
"Hillary slept her way to the top. First with Bill, then maybe Huma".
Please elaborate on your wild fantasy Todd.
Posted by: Jon | 29 July 2015 at 04:35 PM
"Al Gore making up the primary attack on Dukakis using the black murderer Willie Horton".
Todd, whats up with you today? Are you returning to your childhood world of make believe today- with your 4th grade posts earlier, and now these wild fantasies?
Posted by: Jon | 29 July 2015 at 04:38 PM
Really? Ever did a marathon? The term doesn't only apply to foot races.
The good Doc. compares this to a marathon. I consider it a journey with a trophy at the finish line. ( with plenty of traps and dirty pool thrown in)
It's being better and smarter then the next guy. Kinda like how I stayed employed in a mostly union operation. ( actually I was the ONLY non union guy, and had the respect of those guys.) But that's another story of victory.
BTW,, Even one LIB news crew knew better than to run a hit piece on Trump. ( Their learning.)
Posted by: Walt | 29 July 2015 at 04:41 PM
Walt, I used to run too and what you say is correct.
Posted by: Todd Juvinall | 29 July 2015 at 04:46 PM
Walt, not sure being a non-Union guy in a Union shop is a sign of personal victory.:) Was your compensation package better, or was it all about sacrificing personal gain for the benefit of your employer? LOL.
Posted by: Jon | 29 July 2015 at 05:04 PM
I did just fine, and was working when some others were collecting unemployment.
Posted by: Walt | 29 July 2015 at 05:36 PM
This news will kill Sen. Rubio's run as a Repub.
http://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2015/07/29/schumer-admits-i-recruited-marco-rubio-to-be-part-of-our-group-of-eight/
He got sucked into the "dark side".
Posted by: Walt | 29 July 2015 at 06:50 PM
Mr. Walt. Trump kicked this lawyer's behind and even got legal fees. Now she is crying and sobbing. I wish the media would get it right for once. He did not scream "You're disgusting." Nay, he did raise his voice but said "Your breasts are disgusting". Big deal. I yelled the same thing at Gloria Steinman when she was up on stage. Some femini nazis just can't handle the truth, no less take a joke or constructive critism.
https://www.yahoo.com/parenting/trump-to-breastfeeding-mom-youre-disgusting-125350815777.html
Posted by: Bill Tozer | 29 July 2015 at 07:22 PM
I read about that. She sure had some brass ones to try that. " I'm going to fire up this milking machine as I ask you some questions on this land deal,,, (whips out a tit)" I didn't recall a dairy being on the property."
Posted by: Walt | 29 July 2015 at 07:45 PM
Somewhere pigs are flying! Ben, Joe, and Jon......in agreement politically with the Koch Brothers.
http://www.zerohedge.com/news/2015-07-30/now-its-personal-koch-brothers-freeze-out-donald-trump
Donald Trump........BOO!!!!!!
Posted by: fish | 30 July 2015 at 01:38 PM
""The climate is changing; I don’t think anybody can argue it’s not. Human activity has contributed to it," a quote from Jeb Bush in an interview with Bloomberg online.
Posted by: Joe Koyote | 30 July 2015 at 02:35 PM
JoKe, there's a grand canyon between "we're all going to die from CO2 induced warming" and "human activity has contributed to it". I'd suggest 'black carbon' (aka soot) and deforestation, both human activities with climate impacts, may well have larger effects than CO2 emissions to date.
Posted by: Gregory | 30 July 2015 at 02:43 PM
The left hates the Bush family yet parades around like they are best pals if they egree on one point.
Posted by: Todd Juvinall | 30 July 2015 at 02:57 PM