Financial and Health Care Debate

CNN's Fareed Zakaria hosted Paul Krugman and John B. Taylor to debate the origins of the financial mess and proposed health care spending. It is lengthy, but worth the watch.

Limbaugh Proud to be in "Party of No!"

While the GOP battles it's lack of ideas, lack of morals and lack of candidates, Rush Limbaugh suggests "We ought to be damn proud to be the party of no.

Michael Jackson and Farrah Fawcett have Died.

This morning, my boss and I discussed the loss of Ed McMahon, and his how his legacy with Johnny Carson is synonmous with American Pop Culture. I made the off the cuff remark about "there always is three", without knowing that two more icons would pass today. Michael Jackson and Farrah Fawcett have died.
In my lifetime, both figures were cemented in my memories from an early age,
to my very young childhood memories/crushes of sneaking out of bed to watch Charlie's Angels, or having my parents take me to a record store where my allowance would be spent to buy a record.

Farrah Fawcett's death, in all of it's sadness was not unexpected given her 3 year long battle with cancer. At age 62 she can be proud of the image and effect she had on the American entertainment industry and culture for her role in Cahrlie's Angels, Extremities and the Burning Bed among others.. Her long relationship with actor Ryan O'Neal was struck with it's issues that the tabloids covered, they did however stick it out over the years.

Michael Jackson's passing is surprising, and surreal. The self proclaimed King of Pop was 50 and no stranger to headlines. From the early years on Motown records with the Jackson 5, Michael was a child prodigy. Wowing audiences with incredible talents, and holding the honors of entertaining fans around the world for years. His album "Thriller" which earned seared his image into our memories forever sold more than any other release in America. While I always preferred "Off the Wall", his musical abilities accomplished an image many will not see in their lifetimes.

Just shy of embarking on his comeback with a 3 year worldwide tour, Michael suffered a heart attack and died shortly after. These American Icons changed how people in our country viewed entertainment and set a standard in what we see as statuesque.

Sex, Lies, and E-Mails

Governor Mark Sanford, the potential hope for the GOP in 2012 had disappeared as we heard over the last few days. The Lt. Governor, his wife, his four sons, and most of his staff were not aware of his whereabouts for six days. Stories circulated that he may be working on a book, then he was hiking in the Appalachian, but then...as a few expected, it was revealed that he was with his Argentinian Mistress in Buenos Aries. In 2002, a campaign commercial was saturated with the usual Republican "Family Values" rhetoric we have come know. It has since been removed. This bizarre and intriguing story gets better. The Governor of South Carolina and head of the Republican Governor Leadership (which he now has resigned from), and was a possible vice President nominee for Senator John McCain, had been engaging in this trist for over a year.

The State Newspaper recovered e-mails that he and Maria exchanged in that time. Governor...this not what the President meant by a "stimulus package" and learning the inner workings of "Foreign Affairs" does not include cheating on your wife.Here is some excerpts:

"You have a particular grace and calm that I adore. You have a level of sophistication that so fitting with your beauty. I could digress and say that you have the ability to give magnificent gentle kisses, or that I love your tan lines or that I love the curve of your hips, the erotic beauty of you holding yourself (or two magnificent parts of yourself) in the faded glow of the night’s light - but hey, that would be going into sexual details ..."

"you have pearls of wisdom on how we figure all this out please let me know... In the meantime please sleep soundly knowing that despite the best efforts of my head my heart cries out for you, your voice, your body, the touch of your lips, the touch of your finger tips and an even deeper connection to your soul.”"
If his political career has derailed, it is certain he could write some romance novels.

Now I am not one who really cares who a politician is screwing in private, I want to know who they are screwing in public. That said, what we see out of the Republicans, is the repeated nonsense of "Family Values". They are hypocrites! Their new campaign slogan ought to be "Do as I say, not as screw!". Yes, infidelity occurs in many relationships, and politicians are not exceptions, Democrats and Republicans. However, it is Republicans who routinely preach to us about values, and honor all the while hiding their own indiscretions. In 1998, when President Clinton was facing down his wife, the press, and Congress for his fling with Monica Lewinsky, then Congressman Sanford had a number of things to say following his vote to impeach.

"The bottom line, though, is he still lied. He lied under a different oath, and that is the oath to his wife. So it’s got to be taken very, very seriously.” [Sanford on Livingston, CNN, 12/18/98]

“The issue of lying is probably the biggest harm, if you will, to the system of Democratic government, representatives government, because it undermines trust. And if you undermine trust in our system, you undermine everything.” [Sanford on Clinton, CNN, 2/16/99]

Governor Sanford opposes same sex marriage, and spoke with the Post Courier and said this,
“As Jenny and I are the parents of four little boys, we’ve always taught our kids that marriage was something between a man and a woman.” [The Post and Courier, 2/11/04]

It is a given that politicians are difficult to trust, but the GOP is clearly making easy to distrust their members. Do I think this personnel situation is cause for the Governor to resign? No. Do I think his prior words and votes protesting someone else's actions are reason to resign? Yes! The most amusing part of all of this, is the Conservative bloggers and Media. Fox News reported Mark Sanford as a Democrat, you can view that here. The bloggers at Gateway Pundit are bringing up Senator Kennedy's accident 40 years ago, and clinging to John Edwards affair, and Elliot Spitzer's affair without facing up to the fact that in the series of these affairs it is an issue the Republicans are winning. We see how well the last couple elections worked out, so stick to what your good at guys!

New Yorkers Support President Obama's Cautious Approach on Iran

Open Thread

Random Notes

This week, Brad Freidman will be filling in for Mike Malloy

• Guests this evening Mimi Kennedy of Progressive Democrats of America., Eric Boehlert of Media Matters, Stephen Zunes, and Marcy Winograd who will be challenging Congresswoman Jane Harman in the Democratic Primary. Later in the week, Sibel Edwards and Ed Asner among others.Listen to Brad Here.
• My almost reasonable exchange with a flying monkey(s) on the protests in Iran.
• The Young Turks have a good take on President Sarkozy's approach on burkas
• While the right-wing screams about President Obama's response, the silence on thieves in Somalia sentenced to have their right hands and left legs amputated is deafening.
  

Professor Stephen Zunes on Iran

This article from Common Dreams by Stephen Zunes
This excerpt clearly spells out why the U.S. needs a cautious approach to the conflict in Iran
"1) Neo-conservatives and other American hawks were hoping for a victory by the hard-line incumbent to justify their opposition to President Barack Obama’s tentative steps at rapprochement with the Islamic Republic.

2) Opposition candidate Mir Hossein Mousavi and the vast majority of his supporters are strongly nationalist, anti-American, anti-imperialist, and would neither desire nor accept U.S. support.

3) There has been a longstanding Iranian tradition of such largely nonviolent civil insurrections against imperialist powers and autocratic rulers and no outside power is needed to convince the Iranian people to rebel."

Anti-Stimulus Governor Disappears for Four Days

South Carolina Governor Mark Sanford decided all of his kicking and screaming over the Stimulus Package just wore him out. On Thursday, Sanford disappeared for the weekend, and the Lt. Governor, as well as his wife and children did not even know his whereabouts.What is peculiar about this, is while the right-wing has criticized Barack Obama for having ice cream with his children, they have silent about the Republican Governor, who vanished on Father's Day. Spending weeks hemming and hawing over the President's economic plans, he became the first Governor to reject $700 million, while his state flounders with unemployment.

According to Politico, the Governor is safe. His communications director Joel Sawyer relayed this "we won't disclose Sanford’s location but said that before the governor left town last week “he let staff know his whereabouts and that he'd be difficult to reach.”

Dear Sarah

Sarah Palin is right back in the news again combating her critics and the 18 ethics complaints in Alaska. She claims "her political enemies are abusing state law with a flurry of frivolous ethics complaints against her, putting her more than $500,000 in legal debt." I would think she could coax the GOP to provide her with "bailout".

Dear Sarah,
Hope you are well. While these times have been difficult for the people of our great country - including Alaska - it is nice to see you have found the time to express your outrage to David Letterman, and with the utmost class accepted his well-deserved apology. All the while lookin' good. (wink) It is nice to see you express your "average" American persona, by sticking up for daughters and flight attendants everywhere. It is nice to see Bristol doing well, earning a sponsored promotion for abstinence only, after being realistic and stating that "abstinence only is unrealistic". We know how it goes... I'm sure John Ziegler or Greta Van Susteren had a hand in that.

As President Bush used to describe his job, "it's hard work". I can imagine being followed by...er, following the elusive spotlight; it is also "hard work". Maybe you might need a vacation? You would be welcome in Detroit. The daily routine includes job hunting, cheap entertainment, and living hand-to-mouth. You could come cook for me, moose burgers would be great! Introducing you to great music like Street Sweeper Social Club, Henry Rollins, and Jazz like Sonny Criss and Bobby Timmons near a bonfire. Then proving to you that Mike Malloy and Jeff Farias are the most insightful voices in talk radio, and that Janeane Garofalo is the funniest woman in comedy, we could also discuss health care and a public option. We could then debate it over drinks at the biker bar where, as the guys drool over you, I say please, while we don't have the public option for health care yet, we do have have the public option to say...STFU! Don't you have a state to run?!

A "wink" to Anthony for the help on this one.
Inspired by Henry Rollins "Dear Ann" letter.

A confused right-wing approach and double standard.

While Americans offer their support to Iranian protesters, the right wing is continuing to hammer President Obama's cautious approach. Raw Story has an article describing what some right-wing blogs are saying here . This quote, lifted from Gateway Pundit regarding a video a Basij being beaten by protesters "Get yourself a cool drink... Sit back... Press play and enjoy...It's a beautiful thing!". While the Basij certainly cannot be applauded for their actions in the unrest, saying that about any violence is ridiculous. Gateway Pundit goes to post a picture of President Obama purchasing ice cream with his daughters, noting "What if Bush had done this...".To answer that, maybe he remembers this... "President Bush's response to Katrina"

I cannot say it enough, as a country that prides itself on freedom and liberties, we owe it to the protesters on the streets of Tehran support their fight without interfering, and to use them as a political football to throw at our own President belittles their cause.

It's Ok if your are Fox News

Some Conservative Pundits Get it

Meghan McCain Schooled by Paul Begala on Real Time with Bill Maher

America's position on Iran

Republicans are taking the Iranian elections and using it as a political tool, while the Democratic Party takes a hands off position, who is right, who is wrong? President Obama made his stance clear regarding Iran,
"And how they approach and deal with people who are, through peaceful means, trying to be heard will, I think, send a pretty clear signal to the international community about what Iran is - and is not."

This echoes the feelings of millions of Americans, however, if we are seen as meddling in the affairs of elections, it strengthens the reigning powers. The Iranian people who are protesting are positioning themselves to be detained or executed on behalf of their country's belief that Mahmoud Ahmadinajad is leading them down a path of recklessness and isolation. I believe the Iranian people know that America is standing with them, but it is not prudent for the American Government to intervene. Although, while the House passed a resolution condemning the violence in Iran 405-1, the actions of the men and women in the streets of Tehran are showing courage. We should do the same and butt out.

Michigan Congressman Pete Hoekstra took it upon himself to compare the Iranian protesters to the Republicans being oppressed in the House. Give me a break Mr. Hoekstra, because your both on Twitter? "Iranian twitter activity similar to what we did in House last year when Republicans were shut down in the House." John McCain had this to say about President Obama, "He should speak out that this is a corrupt, fraud, sham of an election,". This from the same man who mockingly said "Bomb,Bomb,Bomb Iran!".The position of the GOP is let's stake a claim to the oppression being felt by Iranian people, however their position is flawed. It is known the GOP's stance on Iran has been murky at best. The Republicans have been eager to take military action against Iran's nuclear ambitions for years, and has regarded them as an "Axis of Evil", and now are claiming to stand with the people? It is nothing more than a political ploy to oppose Barack Obama.

As Americans, we all wish the Iranian protesters to be safe and free, and have a just country. That said, this their fight, and as a poster at a Conservative blog noted, in order for this to work it must stand on it's own two feet. I concur. In our delicate relationship with Iran, a reckless and inflammatory approach could result in monumental setbacks and have repurcussions on our soldiers already in harms way in the region.

Misleading Polls on Popularity and Policy

This from Think Progress' Ali Frick

Today, two new national polls were released, one by the New York Times and CBS, the other by the Wall Street Journal and NBC. News headlines quickly settled on a theme: The polls showed that President Obama’s policies were suddenly unpopular:

“Sticker Shock — Obama still popular; his policies, not so much” [ABC's The Note]

“Polls find rising concern with Obama on key issues” [Reuters]

“Polls Show Declining Support For Obama Decisions” [U.S. News & World Report's Political Bulletin]

“Obama’s popularity: Problems testing it” [Chicago Tribune's The Swamp]

“Is ‘Smooth Sailing’ Over for Obama?” [Washington Post]

The headlines have little to no relation to the actual data in the polls, both of which found broad approval for Obama’s foreign policy and economic agendas. From the New York Times/CBS poll:

5. Do you approve or disapprove of the way Barack Obama is handling the economy? 57% approve, 35% disapprove

8. Do you approve or disapprove of the way Barack Obama is handling the threat of terrorism? 57% approve, 27% disapprove

16. So far, do you think Barack Obama’s policies have made the economy better, made the economy worse or haven’t his policies had any effect on the economy yet? 32% say better, 15% say worse

And from the Wall Street Journal/NBC poll:

4b. Do you generally approve or disapprove of the job that Barack Obama is doing in handling the economy? 51% approve, 38% disapprove

4c. Do you generally approve or disapprove of the job that Barack Obama is doing in handling foreign policy? 54% approve , 36% disapprove

9. Which ONE of the following statements best describes your feelings toward Barack Obama?

Like personally and approve most policies…………… 48%
Like personally but disapprove of many policies ……27%

12. And how confident are you that Barack Obama has the right set of goals and policies to improve the economy––extremely confident, quite confident, only somewhat confident, or not at all confident?

Extremely confident………………………. 20%
Quite confident …………………………. 26%
Only somewhat confident ………………….. 24%
Not at all confident …………………….. 29%

Similarly, 68 percent agree with Obama’s view that Guantanamo detainees should be charged with a crime or released back to their home countries, as opposed to only 24 percent who think they should be detained indefinitely. As Glenn Greenwald notes, “The view that detainees should be charged with crimes or released is often depicted as the fringe ‘Far Left’ view. Like so many views that are similarly depicted, it is — in reality — the overwhelming consensus view among Americans.”

Perhaps the most bizarre headline came from USA Today’s blog, The VAL: “Poll: Obama down, cousin Cheney up.” The poll cited showed that 60 percent of Americans have a favorable view of Obama. By contrast, only 27 percent viewed Cheney favorably — while 30 percent viewed him “very negatively.”

Tammy Bruce Joins Conspiracy Chorus

Tammy Bruce, the "openly gay, pro-choice, gun owning, pro-death penalty, authentic feminist", is never short on insensitivity and has gotten in on the conservative chat President Obama wants to secretly destroy America. noting that Obama "perhaps secretly wishes this nation to be harmed ... his mother certainly did" After going after William Ayers, another person the right cannot move past, she decided it was classy to take shots at the President's deceased parents. Now, I cannot say for fact, but I imagine Ms. Bruce was one of the handful that was outraged over David Letterman's joke about Sarah Palin's daughter.

Fox's Griff Jenkins gets a taste of Ambush Journalism

Fox News being well known for their ambushes, and Adam Green of Open Left gives him a taste of "ambush journalism". This occurred outside an event for ACORN in which Fox was not invited, and poor Griff, he got all dressed up and brought his own red carpet. Now the interesting thing is, on Fox this evening, they aired this from the Fox cameraman's view, and edited the piece as if Fox initiated the exchange. My compliments to Adam and Open Left for returning the courtesy by presenting us with the real footage. For a history of Fox's ambush's you can see it here.

Off the Record

Right-Wing Conspiracy Nuts

The right-wing media is going so far to the right these days, they are going to fall off soon. Here Michael Savage suggests that the white Christian male is targeted, and comedian Rush Limbaugh suggests that Barack Obama could digitize health records to "blackmail" you.

Traffic Vigilante?

Fox News reporter Dan Broderick is facing up to one year in prison. Two weeks ago in Central Park, Broderick cut off a cyclist, and was then confronted by the man. Following an exchange words, the cyclist wound up under the SUV and Broderick dragged him four blocks. Being charged with fleeing the scene, Broderick claims the cyclist was a "traffic vigilante". Huh? Apparently in the Fox parking lots you never see the bumper stickers that say "share the road".

As a cyclist, I will admit we take chances, however, we are no match for a car or SUV. At times when I have been bumped or cut off, yes I am going to mouth off, and no it's not being a "traffic vigilante".

Worst Persons in the World

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

Air America Back in D.C.

Air America Media, the Conservative punching bag has a new flagship station in D.C. on WZAA 1050 am. After progressives in D.C. lost 1260 am, streaming the likes of Breakroom Live, Ron Reagan, and Ron Kuby among others became a known practice.
"WZAA also boasts several prominent, Washington, D.C. personalities on programming throughout the day on Wednesday, including Helen Thomas, Chris Matthews, Senator Bernie Sanders and others."
After financial struggles since their courageous inception, Air America has had a revolving door for many in management and hosts, it appears it's woes are coming to an end. Losing great personalities like Randi Rhodes, Mike Malloy, Thom Hartmann, and soon to be Senator, Al Franken, their lineup appears settled. We wish them the best!

Do as I say, Not as I screw!

In typical Republican fashion, Senator John Ensign (R-NV) has admitted he has had an affair with a staffer, who's husband also worked for him. Now I normally would say, OK this is a personal matter, nobody's business. However, in 1998 John Ensign called President Clinton an "embarrassment", wished for his fellow Republican Larry Craig to resign following his "indiscretions", and yet praised Republican Senator David Vitter after his name and number appeared in the now deceased D.C. Madame's "black book".

OK, all of that is rather trivial, but the growing trend out of Republicans is they talk a great game about "Family Values" , yet are the biggest hypocrites on earth! Here is a quick rundown of prominent Family Values/Faith Based figures in the GOP.

• Newt Gingrich- served his wife with divorce papers at her bedside while she suffered from cancer
• David Vitter- Only admitted to visiting the D.C. Madame after his name was released in her black book.It was later rumored he enjoyed wearing diapers while with the prostitutes.
• John Bolton-Former Ambassador to the UN, and current warmonger is said to have forced both wives to participate in unsavory group sex. The State Dept. has not refuted the allegations, and Hustler publisher Larry Fylnt is said to have witnesses.
  
• Fmr. Congressman Joe Scarborough- Resigned after rumors surfaced of extramarital activity. The intern involved turned up dead in his office, and the medical examiner had his licence revoked.
  

Salem News has a longer and more complete list here. The idea that these politicians run around the country suggesting liberals, Democrats, unwed Mothers, some minorities, and others "deviants" is nonsense, and they should be called on it. The fact is, it is the Democratic Party that either doesn't get caught, or has the decency to either behave, or don't preach about it! That is the difference.

Update: Senator Ensign steps down from Republican Leadership post

Air America, a Rational Woman, and One and a half Right-Wingers

CREW sues Obama White House

When Bill Maher suggested that President Obama needs a little "W in him", he meant by pushing through an agenda, not secrecy. Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW) has sued the Obama White House for blocking access to the visitors log. This practice echoes the Bush/Cheney White House, as they also sought to block access to the logs claiming "Executive Privilege", President Obama is claiming they are "presidential records -- not Secret Service agency records, which would be subject to the Freedom of Information Act." Mr. President, you campaigned on "change" and "transperency", and not "more of the same". While you continue to have the majority of the country behind you, with much doubt from Conservatives and few questions from the base, this act provides fodder for the right and suspicions from the left. CREW was relentless in it's pursuit of transperancy and justice of the Bush White House, and I suspect they will not back down from you either. I ask you, do not pursue this fight...CREW's support comes from political junkies of the left and right, do not let this fester.

"Save our CEOs" teaser

Made in the USA

It goes without saying that for decades America has evolved into a nation of consumers and not producers . The old "Made in the USA" logo that once was common is now quickly becoming a thing of the past. Personally, I remember a time when imports were the pricey items, and yes sometimes a better product. However, as we witness our automotive industry in a coma, and the cost of a barrel of oil rise in difficult times. For myself, I have had a Pontiac, a Mazda, two Toyotas, a 1976 Volvo and two Chevy Chevy trucks, the latter were the only ones purchased new. Also, having a love for bikes, I have a Hyper Mountain bike made in China, and the once American pair of old Chuck Taylor All-Stars made in China, and numerous pairs of Levis, a product almost synonymous with USA. It is a sad state affairs since the aforementioned companies among others have a less than stellar records since their production mostly moved overseas.

That said, it was a joy to acquire a trash picked vintage 1980-84 Raleigh ten speed, and disassemble it and make repairs before taking it to the streets. One glaring thing in the process was, part after part read "Raleigh of America", the British owned company was purchased by Huffy in the early 80's.
So, the question is, how did this happen? Some will lead you to believe it was the Unions for simply asking for a livable wage. Others will suggest it was the regulations put on corporations, and some will say it was Democrats raising taxes. All three are nonsense. As Thom Hartmann notes in a column,

"After the Republican Great Depression, FDR put this nation back to work, in part by raising taxes on income above $3 to $4 million a year (in today’s dollars) to 91 percent, and corporate taxes to over 50% of profits."

In my lifetime, this unfortunate transition began in the 1980's, when President Reagan bought into the Milton Friedman theory of "Free Markets" and began deregulating corporations and reducing taxes from 71% to 27% on the very rich. First of all, the free market is not free, as taxes on corporations dropped, to $132 billion from $207 billion in tax revenue, the greed in corporate profits and CEO pay rose. Reaping the rewards of profit at the cost of the "good of the nation", corporations sought more. Much can also be argued over our trade agreements, NAFTA which came to life under a Republican stronghold of Congress and President Clinton put American workers further on the the brink. Congressman Dennis Kucinich continues to urge for bilateral trade policy's that will put Americans back to work. He has noted that while trade is a good thing, America is one of the largest consumer nations, that gave us leverage as other nations wanted to sell to us. "Tax Cuts" and "the Free Market" are catchy slogans, yet they are just that...slogans, and they have consequences. The tax cuts, the trade agreements, and the lifting of some tariffs has turned "Buy American" into "Bye America".

Open Thread

The Fight Apparently is On...

This past week has been filled with news, but the real tedious one that is not going away is David Letterman vs Sarah Palin.Sam Seder was CNN this weekend and Stephanie Miller was on HLN,CNBC, and CNN. Here's Ron Kuby's take.

Joan Walsh stands up to Bill O'Reilly

Salon's Joan Walsh joined Bill O'Reilly to discuss Bill's vile coverage of Dr. George Tiller. Bill demonstrates his ignorance by shouting at Joan Walsh, and with class she stands up to him. It is no secret that Bill's inflammatory rhetoric has stirred emotions in some unstable people, like Tiller's murderer Scott Roeder and James Adkisson, who nearly a year ago entered a Church and decided he wanted to "kill liberals" . Both killers made references about both O'Reilly and Fox News prior to their crimes. Yet, Bill feels he bears no responsibility. Joan calls him on it, with class.

Keith Olbermann and Ed Schultz feature the Round Mound of Conservative Sound

Following Rush Limbaugh's idiocy on rising healthcare costs,Ed Schultz features Rush for his "Psycho Talk" segment and Keith Olbermann names him "Worst Person in the World"

Rush never fails to amaze!

Special thanks to Media Matters for catching this one as I heard it live in the 3 minutes I can stomach of Rush. Nearing the end of today's show, he blamed healthcare costs on those of us who mountain bike, skate, run, etc. This coming from Mr. Bouncy-Bounce, he achieved his toughest workout on the stage at CPAC back in Febuary. This is absurd! According to Rush, the injuries we have endured to keep ourselves from looking like Rush are just "badges of honor!"What a tool!

Ron takes Rush Limbaugh down a notch on Rush's claim that he is "an oppressed minority". While Rush continues his ranting behind his mic , adults like Ron Reagan take the historical facts about minorities seriously. Ron suggests for the likes of Rush, maybe we should instill "Affirmitive Action for Conservatives"

More Domestic Terrorism

June 10th, 88 year old James Von Brunn a white supremacist and President Obama birth certificate conspiracy theorist entered the Holocaust Museum, one mile from the White House, and opened fire with his .22- caliber rifle fatally wounding Museum guard Stephen Tyrone Johns. Von Brunn, has longtime ties with white power groups and anti-Government sites, posted on the Conservative forum Free Republic, his posts have since been removed, but a cached version is here. He authored a antisemitic book titled "Kill the Best Gentiles", in which he says Jews want to destroy the white gene pool. In 1983, Von Grunn was sentenced 11 years in prison for attempting to kidnap members of the Federal Reserve. This from Huffpo:
"In 1983, he was convicted of attempting to kidnap members of the Federal Reserve Board and served more than six years in prison. He was arrested two years earlier outside the room where the board was meeting, carrying a revolver, knife and sawed-off shotgun. At the time, police said von Brunn wanted to take the members hostage because of high interest rates and the nation's economic difficulties."

The irony of this crime which took the 39 year old Johns life, was in April the Department Of Homeland Security issued a report warning of violence from "right-wing extremists", and the Conservatives in the country went ballistic! Fox News also had alot of criticisms of the DHS report, with the exception of Sheppard Smith who seems o know the report was credible. They also noted left-wing extremists. Calls for Secretary Janet Napolitano's resignation were called for by high profile Conservatives like Newt Gingrich and Rush Limbaugh. Turns out the report was correct, as we have now had two murders in 11 days that were politically and religiously motivated.

My question is, for all of the talk from the right about losing your gun rights, Obama's birth certificate (which FactChec.org has verified and debunked any controversy) , and our country's evolving policies, what did you think was going to happen? This means you Glenn Beck, O'Reilly , and Limbaugh! If you keep stirring the pot, some people are bound to snap. Again, I must say, these people are professionals and are well aware of the power of suggestion....act like professionals!

You're Fired!

Miss California has been fired! Not for the reasons that were cited over the last few months, semi-nude photos and opposition to gay marriage, but for violations of her contract. Ms. Prejean jumped into the fire pit with Gay activist Perez Hilton for her stance on gay marriage and her botched answer during the pageant, and she became the darling of the right-wing. However, for all of her Fox appearances and extracurricular engagements on the topic she failed to appear for events that were in her contract. Trump had enough...YOU'RE FIRED!

Conservatives in a Flutter Over Letterman Jokes

This weeks comments by David Letterman about Sarah Palin's trip to NYC has the Conservatives outraged, from pundits to bloggers. Again they prove, they can say anything about anybody and it's ok, but the moment someone turns the tables on them, oh, look out! In Letterman fashion, at Governor Palin's expense she was the victim of his Top 10 List."Bought makeup at Bloomingdales to update her slutty flight attendant look"

In his monologue of jokes, he said an "the toughest part of her trip was keeping Elliot Spitzer away from her daughter" and "one awkward moment at the Yankees game was during the 7th inning, her daughter was knocked up by Alex Rodriguez" What has not been noted by any Conservatives is how Limbaugh took the joke further, and claimed Letterman had it wrong, and suggested she was knocked up after the game. I am sure it's just that their schedules are too hectic to have to call him and apologize afterwards.




To the Governor's credit she was in NYC for a fundraiser for autism, and made a weekend out of it. What is ridiculous, is Conservatives are acting like they have never heard a comedian before. Some are suggesting Letterman called her daughter a prostitute, others are saying "how could he make jokes about a 14 year being raped". What is clear, David Letterman never said anything about rape. I noted that I didn't believe Letterman knew what daughter was with her on the trip, and second if he is going to make a joke about her daughter being "knocked up" , it is clear he is speaking of the 18 year old daughter who was knocked up. Comedians use questionable material, that is their shtick! The Palins responded to Letterman, "Laughter incited by sexually perverted comments made by a 62-year-old male celebrity aimed at a 14-year-old girl is ... disgusting,"
That's it, it was poor comedy that Letterman himself acknowledges here. You either laugh, or you don't , but he is a comedian...that's it. Get over it!

Bill O'Reilly Lies About Dr. Tiller Coverage

In typical Bill O'Reilly fashion when caught saying something outrageous, just lie about. Media Matters among others noted last week while in an interview with former President of NOW Patricia Ireland, O'Reilly referred to Dr. George Tiller as "Dr. Killer". She immediately heard it, anyone watching the clip hears it, and the only person pretending it wasn't said is...Bill O'Reilly. The San Fransisco Chronicle printed the story of O'Reilly and Fox's insensitive diatribes while the Tiller family mourns, and they LIE.

Newt Gingrich's Double Standard

Newt Gingrich, the shamed Congressman continues his comeback, and the country is faced with what we could call "Newttalk". After calling SCOTUS nominee Sonia Sotomayor a racist, he reversed course to call her a "racialist'. Now, Newt has declared "I am not a citizen of the world. I think the entire concept is intellectual nonsense and stunningly dangerous." An obvious jab at President Obama's approach to regenerating our relations with allies, and working towards solutions with our adversaries.Last July, then candidate Obama stated in Berlin "a citizen -- a proud citizen of the United States, and a fellow citizen of the world." However, for all of Mr. Gingrich's talk of President Reagan, and cheap shots at any Democrat, he fails to say whether or not Reagan's comment on June 17 1982 that "I speak today as both a citizen of the United States and of the world."Newt, was President Reagan's comment "intellectual nonsense?" While newshounds and pundits are speculating that Mr. Gingrich will throw his hat in the ring in 2012, it is clear that his double standards may hinder those aspirations.

Freed Gitmo Detainee Speaks of 7+ years

Lakhdar Boumediene is now a free man after 7 plus years at Guantanamo Bay military prison. In 2001, the Bosnian police arrested Boumediene on conspiring to bomb the U.S. Embassy. The Bosnian courts found him and five others innocnet and freed the men, but according to reports, with the urging of President Bush, he was turned over to the U.S. where he says he was shackled and transferred to GITMO. There, he alleges torture and never being interrogated. Standing by his claim of innocence, and now re-united with his wife and two daughters in France, Boumediene says he has no ill will to the U.S. and it's citizens other than George Bush, Dick Cheney and three other Bush Admin officials.

Saying he was deprived of sleep for 16 days at a time and alleging that guards used hypodermic needles and tubes to torture him after he declared a hunger strike. The problem the U.S facing while it plans to close Guantanamo, is giving the detainees due process, and sentencing or freeing them, and figuring out where to release them. Since the current conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, of the 800 detainees, 420 have been released without charge, and reports claim that 61 have returned to or have now joined the battles. Many detainees have declared their innocence, others have admitted guilt, and some have said nothing. The issue we are facing amidst the accusations of torture and cherry picked intel, is that some of these boys and men are innocent.

Supreme Court dismisses "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" challenge

The Supreme Court has rejected Army Capt. James Pietrangelo's challenge to "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" . It was Republican Barry Goldwater who said "You don't have to be straight to be in the military; you just have to be able to shoot straight.", and it was President Obama, who on the campaign trail who suggested repealing the ridiculous policy. Pietrangelo served 6 years in the Army, 7 years in the National Guard, and one year in Iraq. Following the the rejection of the Boston Court Appeals, Pietrangelo was the only one out of 11 soldiers who sought a ruling from the Supreme Court. It is clear, as Kevin Nix of the Servicemembers Legal Defense Network points out, this rejection now puts the issue back in the hands of Congress and the White House to repeal it.

What is absurd, is this policy only feeds the homophobia of a number of American people and continues our country's discrimination to Gays and Lesbians. These men and women wish to serve our country with honor and bravery just like anyone else. Furthermore, I find it hard to believe in a time of war, a soldier is going to be concerned with another person's sexual orientation. Yet, as a caller to the Ron Reagan Show shows, it is more about showering with a gay man than who it is you go into battle with.
Ron Reagan vs. Shower Boy


Update: Ana Marie Cox on "Don't Ask Don't Tell" in Playboy

Fox News Continues it's nonsensical attacks on NBC

Fox News seems to have forgotten all the access they were given in the Bush/Cheney White House. Crooks and Liars notes that Fox contributor Liz Trotta, who once joked about killing President Obama, has resorted to calling NBC's Brian Williams "the pet poodle in the Obama media kennel". Last week, NBC and Williams aired their "Day in the White House". Like John at Crooks and Liars, I am not really a fan of Williams, actually I just don't care. However, Conservatives and Fox are obsessed with NBC and GE these days.

Keith Olbermann joins Courtney Hazlett on the Ron Reagan Show

Keith Olbermann joins Courtney Hazlett on the Ron Reagan Show to discuss Dick Cheney's role in torture and his attempts to re-write history.

Ron Kuby on the murder of Dr. Tiller

Ron Kuby, progressive talk show host and attorney discusses the terrorist act of Tiller's assassin, Scott Roeder. Pointing out how the state of Kansas filed charges against Dr. Tiller for allegedly violating state law for consulting with a second Doctor in some cases.Roeder sat in the courtroom and looked on as they state failed to make any case against George Tiller. Take a listen.

Carlos Bledsoe? AbdulHakim Mujahid Muhammad?

In custody, Carlos Bledsoe aka Abdul Hakim Mujahid Muhmmad is being held on charges of shooting and killing Pvt. William Long and wounding Pvt. Quinton Ezeagwula in Little Rock, AK.Authorities retrieved 3 guns in the suspects vehicle, a SKS semi-automatic rifle, a .22-caliber rifle and a pistol.The FBI is currently giving this case further investigation. The victims, Army Recruiters in Little Rock had just finished basic training. Muhammad, a Muslim convert obviously took at aim at American military with political and religious motivations. Some on the right are angered that this story has received less attention than the murder of George Tiller, and with good concern. While I do not always agree with the tactics recruiters may use to sway young men and women, they should be honored in our country, and not used as tools for political and religious gain. Muhammad's actions are motivated in the same way Scott Roeder's were. One disapproved of Dr. Tiller's practice of late abortions, the other opposed American military presence in Islamic countries. Both are murderers and should be sentenced accordingly. It has been reported, Muhammad could face the death penalty or life in prison. There is no word on Roeder's outcome yet. In my opinion, life in prison would suit both of them just fine.

Congressman Kucinich takes Fox News to task over bailouts, trade, manufacturing and the auto industry

"There was never any evidence...that Iraq was involved in 9/11"

The most secretive public figure in the history of American politics just won't stop talking now that he is out of office. Former Vice President Dick Cheney and his daughter Liz joined Fox News' Greta Van Susteren for a joint interview. In the interview he admits there were no ties to Iraq and 9/11. Really? Dick? How many times in the Bush Admin.'s defense of the war in Iraq did we hear "On 9/11...", "When we were attacked on 9/11..." or Dick Cheney in 2004 on CNBC when asked if Iraq was involved in the attacks "we don't know". Or as Raw Story points out in 2003 the Cheney noted that there was "more and more" links between Iraq and Al-Qaeda. From his war profiteering, to torture, to misleading the country into a war, to shamlessley trotting his daughter out to cling to some false sense of a decent legacy, Dick Cheney shows himself to be nothing more than an evil son of a bitch!

Domestic ConservativeTerrorism?

Sunday's murder of Doctor George Tiller represents America's far right terrorists. Tiller, one of three Doctors in the country that still provided late-term abortions, and he faced repeated threats against himself and his family. The 67 year old Tiller was shot and killed Sunday morning at his Lutheran Church, the suspect in custody, 51 year old Scott Roeder. The serial anti-abortion activist, commenter at the anti-abortion website Operation Rescue, who up until Sunday night had their own "Tiller Watch",and a former member of the anti-Government group the Freeman, and in 1996 was arrested in a traffic stop after police discovered bomb making materials in his vehicle.Roeder's past actions and repeated aggression towards Dr. Tiller make clear that America is faced with Anti-Abortionist's version of terrorism. Tiller, who was also shot twice in both arms in 1993 and had his clinic bombed in 1985, yet continued his practice.

I have stated that this is not a justified homicide, this is murder. Claiming to be pro-life and committing murder is hardly pro-life . Nothing says pro-life like murder in the morning. It is abundantly clear that a large percentage of people in America are against abortion, and contrary to popular belief most people are. Nobody is "pro-abortion" as the right-wing would like you to believe. As a man, I have been through it, and it was horrifying and I cannot fathom what whirlwind of emotions that tore at the woman. However, I remain supportive of a woman's right to choose. The idea that shooting, bombing, threatening , and protesting doctors, the clinics, their staff and families is dangerous and against the laws in place. If one is that against law, work to change the law, do not take it into your own hands where you also put innocent people in danger. That said, as Rachel Maddow noted last night, in 87% of counties in the United States it is not possible to get an abortion. So, it is clear that much of the efforts of the domestic terrorists have had some impact.

However, it should be noted that media coverage of a doctors practice to perform abortions adds fuel to the fire, and consequently leads to tragedy. In the last four years alone Fox News has covered Dr. Tiller 28 times, calling him "Tiller the Baby Killer". Roeder, who frequently posted on Operation Rescues website had this to say about Bill O'Reilly and a anti-Tiller prayer event.
"Has Bill O'Reilly been invited to any of the Tiller events and if so what was his reply? Has Fox News covered any of these events?"
It is obvious by this post, that Roeder was listening to O'Reilly In 2007, O'Reilly sent his producers off to Wichita to ambush Dr. Tiller and last night he defended his coverage Church , killing two for their liberal leanings. In his apartment, authorities found books and columns written by Fox News hosts and guests, like Bernard Goldberg who was mentioned in of Tiller, instead of taking responsibility he referenced "far-left zealots" and "pro-abortion zealots". Bill, you are in the media and are aware of the influence your show has had over the years. Yet, you continue to use language that incites those unstable like Scott Roeder.It should also be noted that last July's shooting in Knoxville,Tn at the Unitarian Universalist Church, the shooter James Adkisson wrote his own "manifesto".
"This was a symbolic killing. Who I wanted to kill was every Democrat in the Senate & House, the 100 people in Bernard Goldberg's book".
Furthermore, it is imperative that the media make a point to curb their language and or coverage on Doctors who perform abortions because in the last 20 years it has stirred the anger and violent behavior of the anti-abortion crowd. Since 1993 and up to Sundays murder of Dr. Tiller there have been shootings and bombings that killed and endangered innocent people. I said on a different blog, that I am not a religious person, but I hope that Scott Roeder's statements on his crime do not make a mockery out of the faith many in this country hold close to their hearts.