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GOP: The Gang That Can't Budget
I know you're tired of reading "GOP sucks" posts. Believe it or not, I'm getting tired of writing them. But this is a political news blog and the GOP is the party that controls both houses of Congress (theoretically). So when they can't get their act together (which is all the time)t on something as fundamental as a Budget Resolution, it's news.
As veteran Capital Hill reporter Steve Dennis put it, "This is, like, never-ever-ever supposed to happen."A marathon markup of House Republicans’ proposed 2016 federal budget ended after midnight Wednesday with no resolution between the two GOP factions — defense hawks on one side, fiscal conservatives on the other — determined to put their own, seemingly incompatible stamps on the largely symbolic spending plan. Members and aides weren’t immediately sure early Thursday if or when the House Budget panel would reconvene to try again to move the budget out of committee and onto the floor. The chaos signaled a minor vote-counting crisis had escalated into another full-scale meltdown between GOP leaders and fiscal conservatives.At issue is whether or how to add money to the defense budget without going over the Budget Control Act (sequester) caps. The gimmick they were trying to push through was adding money to the Overseas Contingency Operations fund which is where they account for the money for operations in Iraq, Afghanistan and other war on terror activities. This is "off-budget" for the purpose of counting against sequester. Basically it would become a DoD slush fund since the money would be used for normal activities like procurement, maintenance and other routine activities. Budget hawks are calling BS on this and rightfully so. Just because you spend money and put it on a different spreadsheet doesn't mean you aren't spending and borrowing it. If defense hawks get away with this, why not create other off book accounts for things like highway, education and other discretionary spending? The GOP could then spend all they want and still say, "Look at us! We're staying under the caps and cutting spending!" And remember, the seuqester caps (which Boehner already busted back in December of 2013 in exchange for fake spending cuts) were supposed to be the 'win" conservatives got in exchange for hiking the debt ceiling. The meltdown in the Budget Committee (which doesn't spend money on programs, they just produce "top line" numbers for each section of the budget and then authorization and appropriation committees decide which programs get how much) under each section) came after the chairman said he couldn't get enough votes from the Republicans to move the budget to the floor. The crack leadership team did their own whip count and said the chairman was wrong, there were enough votes. As usual, leadership was wrong. So now the House GOP can't produce a budget resolution because of a schism in the party. As I asked two years ago this very day...what's holding the GOP together? I didn't think much was then and nothing I've seen since has led me to change my mind. Added Gratuitious Anti-GOP Slap: Other than Keystone, the first 3 months of the GOP controlling the House with it's largest majority in history consists of: -Funding Obama's amnesty
-Shelving an anti-abortion measure that has wide public support and passed the House before
-Proposing to reauthorize SCHIP at a rate higher than what George W. Bush vetoed TWICE
-Negotiating a deal with Nancy Peolosi to add hundreds of billions of dollars in deficit entitlement spending I follow the news pretty closely. I'm pretty sure none of that was what the GOP promised.
Comments
(Jump to bottom of comments)1
done
Posted by: phoenixgirl at March 19, 2015 09:47 AM (u8GsB)
2
Yikes.
Posted by: uh huh at March 19, 2015 09:48 AM (jgeDr)
3
Barack Obama is a SCOAMT.
Posted by: AllenG (DedicatedTenther) - TrueCon at March 19, 2015 09:50 AM (kff5f)
Posted by: AllenG (DedicatedTenther) - TrueCon at March 19, 2015 09:51 AM (kff5f)
5
I suspect that a lot of people have given up on the GOP. I KNOW I HAVE.
Posted by: Velvet Ambition at March 19, 2015 09:51 AM (R8hU8)
6
I see being angry at our GOPe masters is going to be a permenent phenomenon.
Posted by: Kreplach at March 19, 2015 09:52 AM (7sYcg)
7
Let's see, my shocked face, I could have sworn I saw it here a second ago....Must be in my other jacket.
Posted by: RedMindBlueState at March 19, 2015 09:52 AM (h4vJk)
8
There is some rationale for keeping overseas military operations separate from the basic defense budget. But any sixth grader would understand why it should be included in the total.
As someone said in the previous post:
They want the trappings of power, but are unwilling to do the work to actually...you know...lead.
As someone said in the previous post:
They want the trappings of power, but are unwilling to do the work to actually...you know...lead.
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at March 19, 2015 09:52 AM (Zu3d9)
9
The death of the Republican Party cannot come fast enough. If we are very *very* lucky, there will be enough deadlock in DC from 2016 - 2020 (well, 2017 - 2021) to keep things from getting worse much faster.
And then there might possibly be a glimmer of hope, maybe, that a new Conservative party can step forward and actually get things in order.
And then there might possibly be a glimmer of hope, maybe, that a new Conservative party can step forward and actually get things in order.
Posted by: AllenG (DedicatedTenther) - TrueCon at March 19, 2015 09:52 AM (kff5f)
10
Democratically controlled House of Representatives.
Posted by: AoSHQ Stylebook at March 19, 2015 09:53 AM (evdj2)
11
New party in control of Congress? Same as the old party in control of Congress.
Posted by: wrg500 at March 19, 2015 09:53 AM (C278+)
12
"I know you're tired of reading "GOP sucks" posts. "
nope, not even close, I never tire of them.
because the GOP does, in fact, suck.
nope, not even close, I never tire of them.
because the GOP does, in fact, suck.
Posted by: Shoey at March 19, 2015 09:53 AM (vA94g)
13
Haa - haa !
Posted by: sock_rat_eez at March 19, 2015 09:53 AM (OCcU9)
14
But this is a political news blog
smart military lesbian pron is part of our mission statement. And less rage inducing.
smart military lesbian pron is part of our mission statement. And less rage inducing.
Posted by: Blue Hen at March 19, 2015 09:54 AM (Spluw)
15
Why don't they just ask Obama to write the budget and send it over? It's going to be his budget anyway.
Posted by: Cloyd Freud, Unemployed at March 19, 2015 09:54 AM (lG2E3)
16
If we're going to have a new conservative party, it's going to happen by the last elements in the GOP with any real sense of being responsible stewards breaking away and starting one.
Yeah, my hopes ain't up on that.
Yeah, my hopes ain't up on that.
Posted by: Brother Cavil, Unrepresented Christian Objectivist at March 19, 2015 09:54 AM (DT3rQ)
17
They want the trappings of power, but are unwilling to do the work to actually...you know...lead.
Because true leadership is service- which means putting others before yourself.
Can you think of any major politician in the United States who would put others (especially nameless, faceless, "others") before themselves?
I can't.
Because true leadership is service- which means putting others before yourself.
Can you think of any major politician in the United States who would put others (especially nameless, faceless, "others") before themselves?
I can't.
Posted by: AllenG (DedicatedTenther) - TrueCon at March 19, 2015 09:54 AM (kff5f)
18
So what ever happened to regular order?
Remember when each department's budgets went through committees and hearings and all kinds of amendments and assholes pontificating and took forever to happen?
yeah, that. What happened to that?
Remember when each department's budgets went through committees and hearings and all kinds of amendments and assholes pontificating and took forever to happen?
yeah, that. What happened to that?
Posted by: mynewhandle at March 19, 2015 09:55 AM (AkOaV)
19
Screw this. Moving to Fla and becoming a Manatee hunting guide.
Posted by: wrg500 at March 19, 2015 09:55 AM (C278+)
20
Man, I'm a defense hawk with friends and family tethered to the defense industry.
And even I think this was a bullshit move by some pyramid scheme artists.
FFS, take one of the myriad budgets out there the GOP has produced through the years. None are prefect but they're all better than what we have now.
Pass it.
Send it to Barky
Let him veto it.
It's that fucking simple.
Because this whole "adults in control" thing McConnell was going for, yeah not working indeed we look worse.
And even I think this was a bullshit move by some pyramid scheme artists.
FFS, take one of the myriad budgets out there the GOP has produced through the years. None are prefect but they're all better than what we have now.
Pass it.
Send it to Barky
Let him veto it.
It's that fucking simple.
Because this whole "adults in control" thing McConnell was going for, yeah not working indeed we look worse.
Posted by: tsrblke, PhD(c) who misses sleep at March 19, 2015 09:56 AM (HDwDg)
21
The GOP isn't any more interested in shrinking government and cutting the budget than the donks are. And McConehead wets his pants every time someone says apply the nuke option just like Dirty Hairy.
I posted a link a few days ago that showed the defense budget now being 17% of spending. Everything else except interest was socialism spending. When I was growing up this was the exact opposite.
Now I know the defense budget could have bren cut more a awhile back but that would require closing some bases, and streamlining the procurement process. And maybe sending some cronies to jail.
But none of that is going to occur.
So yes, fk the GOP.
I posted a link a few days ago that showed the defense budget now being 17% of spending. Everything else except interest was socialism spending. When I was growing up this was the exact opposite.
Now I know the defense budget could have bren cut more a awhile back but that would require closing some bases, and streamlining the procurement process. And maybe sending some cronies to jail.
But none of that is going to occur.
So yes, fk the GOP.
Posted by: Vic We Have No Party at March 19, 2015 09:56 AM (wlDny)
22
If we're going to have a new conservative party, it's going to happen by the last elements in the GOP with any real sense of being responsible stewards breaking away and starting one.
And if they're going to do it in time, it's going to be out of the ashes of 2016.
I hold no hope that they'll see the light before next year- and even if they did that probably wouldn't be enough time. But if the Dumb Old Party is abandoned enough next year, then maybe some of the actually Conservative ones will realize there's nothing to "reform" and that it needs to be completely rebuilt.
And if they're going to do it in time, it's going to be out of the ashes of 2016.
I hold no hope that they'll see the light before next year- and even if they did that probably wouldn't be enough time. But if the Dumb Old Party is abandoned enough next year, then maybe some of the actually Conservative ones will realize there's nothing to "reform" and that it needs to be completely rebuilt.
Posted by: AllenG (DedicatedTenther) - TrueCon at March 19, 2015 09:56 AM (kff5f)
23
Posted by: wrg500 at March 19, 2015 09:55 AM (C278+)
Sounds very lucrative.
Just avoid the uniformed assholes whining about "poaching" and all that bullshit. They can be a real drag.
Sounds very lucrative.
Just avoid the uniformed assholes whining about "poaching" and all that bullshit. They can be a real drag.
Posted by: mynewhandle at March 19, 2015 09:56 AM (AkOaV)
24
This does undescore why a parlimentary system wouldn't better. Only one element of one party is showing any interest in fiscal sanity. And splintering would result in dems and GOPe banding togehter (kinda like now) and outvoting any fiscal restraint.
And we'd be relying on the MFM to point this out.
And we'd be relying on the MFM to point this out.
Posted by: Blue Hen at March 19, 2015 09:56 AM (Spluw)
25
They want the trappings of power, but are unwilling to do the work to actually...you know...lead.
Because... hard. Just ask King Putt - presidentin' gets in the way of his tee times. Our CONgressional Betters (Top. Men. all) have known this all along. Last guy who didn't seem to be afraid of hard work (imperfect though he certainly was) was Newt and we all see how long he lasted in the Speaker's Chair.
Because... hard. Just ask King Putt - presidentin' gets in the way of his tee times. Our CONgressional Betters (Top. Men. all) have known this all along. Last guy who didn't seem to be afraid of hard work (imperfect though he certainly was) was Newt and we all see how long he lasted in the Speaker's Chair.
Posted by: DocJ at March 19, 2015 09:57 AM (zrsn3)
26
Because this whole "adults in control" thing McConnell was going for, yeah not working indeed we look worse.
That's because for "adults in control" to work, the people in control have to actually act like, y'know, adults.
That's because for "adults in control" to work, the people in control have to actually act like, y'know, adults.
Posted by: Brother Cavil, Unrepresented Christian Objectivist at March 19, 2015 09:57 AM (DT3rQ)
27
It's called treachery, Drew. It works very well.
Posted by: John "Lorgar" Boehner at March 19, 2015 09:57 AM (9TK8E)
28
Can you think of any major politician in the United States who would put others (especially nameless, faceless, "others") before themselves?
Donald Trump.
...
...
...
You have to admit that i had you going there for a second, right?
Donald Trump.
...
...
...
You have to admit that i had you going there for a second, right?
Posted by: Circa (Insert Year Here) at March 19, 2015 09:57 AM (659DL)
29
Posted by: Vic We Have No Party at March 19, 2015 09:56 AM (wlDny)
Why does it cost us 10 times more money to build a ship then it costs anyone else on planet earth?
These are the questions that need to be answered by the DOD.
Why does it cost us 10 times more money to build a ship then it costs anyone else on planet earth?
These are the questions that need to be answered by the DOD.
Posted by: mynewhandle at March 19, 2015 09:58 AM (AkOaV)
30
Basically it would become a DoD slush fund since the money would be used for normal activities like procurement, maintenance and other routine activities.
In point of fact, it will be Obama's slush fund, to spend as He sees fit.
In point of fact, it will be Obama's slush fund, to spend as He sees fit.
Posted by: toby928(C) at March 19, 2015 09:58 AM (evdj2)
31
I know you're tired of reading "GOP sucks" posts.
Not really. Because the preferred solution isn't to stop talking about how much the GOP sucks, but rather for the GOP to stop sucking quite so much.
I know you're tired of reading "GOP sucks" posts.
Not really. Because the preferred solution isn't to stop talking about how much the GOP sucks, but rather for the GOP to stop sucking quite so much.
Posted by: Laurie David's Cervix at March 19, 2015 09:58 AM (kdS6q)
32
Posted by: Circa (Insert Year Here) at March 19, 2015 09:57 AM (659DL)
Nope....my first thought was, "Oooh! A new troll!"
Nope....my first thought was, "Oooh! A new troll!"
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at March 19, 2015 09:59 AM (Zu3d9)
33
"Can you think of any major politician in the United States who would put others (especially nameless, faceless, "others") before themselves?
I can't."
For all his faults, I remember reading about a former President who would arrange his vacation and travel schedule when possible, so as to minimize the impact to the staff and protective detail assigned to him.
I can't."
For all his faults, I remember reading about a former President who would arrange his vacation and travel schedule when possible, so as to minimize the impact to the staff and protective detail assigned to him.
Posted by: Village Idiot's Apprentice at March 19, 2015 09:59 AM (PJOJz)
34
15
Why don't they just ask Obama to write the budget and send it over? It's going to be his budget anyway.
Posted by: Cloyd Freud, Unemployed at March 19, 2015 09:54 AM (lG2E3)
He (or a minion like the rat face Iranian) already has. It was insane.
Why don't they just ask Obama to write the budget and send it over? It's going to be his budget anyway.
Posted by: Cloyd Freud, Unemployed at March 19, 2015 09:54 AM (lG2E3)
He (or a minion like the rat face Iranian) already has. It was insane.
Posted by: Vic We Have No Party at March 19, 2015 09:59 AM (wlDny)
35
And if they're going to do it in time, it's going to be out of the ashes of 2016.
If it was going to be in time, it would have needed to be out of the ashes of 2012.
Not that anyone listens to me anyway.
DEAD INSIDE '16
If it was going to be in time, it would have needed to be out of the ashes of 2012.
Not that anyone listens to me anyway.
DEAD INSIDE '16
Posted by: Brother Cavil, Unrepresented Christian Objectivist at March 19, 2015 09:59 AM (DT3rQ)
36
>>>> New party in control of Congress? Same as the old party in control of Congress.
.
.
.
.This is nothing new. It has been occurring for at least the last 20 years and is why I changed to Independent back in 1999. Not sure why this is all of a sudden coming as a surprise to people here. Did people really expect the GOP to come in and clean house after the November elections? If you did you are being extremely naive.
The Federal Government will not be changed at the ballot box no matter how many people whine that the GOP left them, they didn't leave the GOP, etc. It is too late for that to happen.
State governments on the other hand can be changed.
.
.
.
.This is nothing new. It has been occurring for at least the last 20 years and is why I changed to Independent back in 1999. Not sure why this is all of a sudden coming as a surprise to people here. Did people really expect the GOP to come in and clean house after the November elections? If you did you are being extremely naive.
The Federal Government will not be changed at the ballot box no matter how many people whine that the GOP left them, they didn't leave the GOP, etc. It is too late for that to happen.
State governments on the other hand can be changed.
Posted by: The Great White Scotsman at March 19, 2015 09:59 AM (4oSLk)
37
This needs reposting, from the dead thread
260
AoSHQ turncoat? Wait, you can now put on your resume you helped CAC?
What next?
Moron membership a plus or negative? Talk amongst yourselfs.
260
AoSHQ turncoat? Wait, you can now put on your resume you helped CAC?
What next?
Moron membership a plus or negative? Talk amongst yourselfs.
Posted by: Nip Sip at March 19, 2015 09:59 AM (0FSuD)
38
Why does it cost us 10 times more money to build a ship then it costs anyone else on planet earth? These are the questions that need to be answered by the DOD.
Posted by: mynewhandle
Notice that China is still years behind the US, Russia is buying thier newest stuff from France and talking about trying to build a carrier, when they couldn't build or maintain anything close to that, an Birtain's navy is withering.
Posted by: mynewhandle
Notice that China is still years behind the US, Russia is buying thier newest stuff from France and talking about trying to build a carrier, when they couldn't build or maintain anything close to that, an Birtain's navy is withering.
Posted by: Blue Hen at March 19, 2015 10:00 AM (Spluw)
39
19 Screw this. Moving to Fla and becoming a Manatee hunting guide.
Posted by: wrg500 at March 19, 2015 09:55 AM (C278+)
Blue Spring State Park in Volusia County. Manatees are a protected species, so you'll want to hunt only at night.
Posted by: wrg500 at March 19, 2015 09:55 AM (C278+)
Blue Spring State Park in Volusia County. Manatees are a protected species, so you'll want to hunt only at night.
Posted by: Insomniac at March 19, 2015 10:00 AM (2Ojst)
40
Maybe Gabe supports the GOPe because they're the gang that couldn't budget straight!
Posted by: andycanuck at March 19, 2015 10:00 AM (kivUY)
41
The GOP is worse than useless.
Posted by: steevy at March 19, 2015 10:01 AM (KETbL)
42
40 Maybe Gabe supports the GOPe because they're the gang that couldn't budget straight!
Posted by: andycanuck at March 19, 2015 10:00 AM (kivUY)
And they sure love their sriracha sauce...
Posted by: andycanuck at March 19, 2015 10:00 AM (kivUY)
And they sure love their sriracha sauce...
Posted by: Insomniac at March 19, 2015 10:01 AM (2Ojst)
43
They can't agree ... because we can't agree. Watch this.
FELLOW BOX PEOPLE .... LEND ME YOUR EAR
We are broke. We must cut spending. Please outline a 25% reduction in foreign deployments - so we can save money and bring our boys home.
I predict the response will be underwhelming.
FELLOW BOX PEOPLE .... LEND ME YOUR EAR
We are broke. We must cut spending. Please outline a 25% reduction in foreign deployments - so we can save money and bring our boys home.
I predict the response will be underwhelming.
Posted by: ScoggDog at March 19, 2015 10:02 AM (ZUUI1)
44
Why does it cost us 10 times more money to build a ship then it costs anyone else on planet earth?
Because...like the F-35...we want our platforms to do EVERYTHING. Also, (and this relates to the Ben Carson expertise thing) we defer way too much to the military on hardware issues because of "expertise." I give you the Littoral Combat Ship in this vein, which, like the Holy Roman Empire, is none of the above. (And they also corrode like at the welds like Alka Seltzer, but what do know?)
Because...like the F-35...we want our platforms to do EVERYTHING. Also, (and this relates to the Ben Carson expertise thing) we defer way too much to the military on hardware issues because of "expertise." I give you the Littoral Combat Ship in this vein, which, like the Holy Roman Empire, is none of the above. (And they also corrode like at the welds like Alka Seltzer, but what do know?)
Posted by: Circa (Insert Year Here) at March 19, 2015 10:02 AM (659DL)
45
29 These are the questions that need to be answered by the DOD.
Posted by: mynewhandle at March 19, 2015 09:58 AM (AkOaV)
All you have to do is look at what happened with the F-35. It can be boiled down to congressional interference, excessive regulation, and cronies.
Posted by: mynewhandle at March 19, 2015 09:58 AM (AkOaV)
All you have to do is look at what happened with the F-35. It can be boiled down to congressional interference, excessive regulation, and cronies.
Posted by: Vic We Have No Party at March 19, 2015 10:02 AM (wlDny)
46
Posted by: Blue Hen at March 19, 2015 10:00 AM (Spluw)
I'm not talking about aircraft carriers, although I'm sure theres a ton of wasted money there as well.
But for example, our destroyers cost almost $2 billion to build. (Arleigh Burke class).
Now I'm no ship building expert, but that's a lot of fucking money and I'm having a hard time figuring out how it's so expensive.
I'm not talking about aircraft carriers, although I'm sure theres a ton of wasted money there as well.
But for example, our destroyers cost almost $2 billion to build. (Arleigh Burke class).
Now I'm no ship building expert, but that's a lot of fucking money and I'm having a hard time figuring out how it's so expensive.
Posted by: mynewhandle at March 19, 2015 10:02 AM (AkOaV)
47
Posted by: mynewhandle at March 19, 2015 09:55 AM (AkOaV)
This is regular order.
First the Budget Committee produces a resolution with top line numbers.
Then the authorizing committees divvy up the pot the budget gives them among various programs.
Finally the authorization bills go the appropriations committee which gives final ok/makes changes.
This is regular order.
First the Budget Committee produces a resolution with top line numbers.
Then the authorizing committees divvy up the pot the budget gives them among various programs.
Finally the authorization bills go the appropriations committee which gives final ok/makes changes.
Posted by: DrewM. at March 19, 2015 10:03 AM (r5Qcm)
48
Screw this. Moving to Fla and becoming a Manatee hunting guide.
Posted by: wrg500 at March 19, 2015 09:55 AM
Been nice knowing you. Say hi to The Ravage for us!
Posted by: wrg500 at March 19, 2015 09:55 AM
Been nice knowing you. Say hi to The Ravage for us!
Posted by: RedMindBlueState at March 19, 2015 10:03 AM (h4vJk)
49
I predict the response will be underwhelming.
My plan for conquest and tribute would require an increase in deployment.
My plan for conquest and tribute would require an increase in deployment.
Posted by: toby928(C) at March 19, 2015 10:03 AM (evdj2)
50
36 This is nothing new. It has been occurring for at
least the last 20 years and is why I changed to Independent back in
1999. Not sure why this is all of a sudden coming as a surprise to
people here. Did people really expect the GOP to come in and clean
house after the November elections? If you did you are being extremely
naive.
The Federal Government will not be changed at the ballot box no
matter how many people whine that the GOP left them, they didn't leave
the GOP, etc. It is too late for that to happen.
State governments on the other hand can be changed.
Posted by: The Great White Scotsman at March 19, 2015 09:59 AM (4oSLk)
Believe me, it has been going on for a lot longer than 20 years.
least the last 20 years and is why I changed to Independent back in
1999. Not sure why this is all of a sudden coming as a surprise to
people here. Did people really expect the GOP to come in and clean
house after the November elections? If you did you are being extremely
naive.
The Federal Government will not be changed at the ballot box no
matter how many people whine that the GOP left them, they didn't leave
the GOP, etc. It is too late for that to happen.
State governments on the other hand can be changed.
Posted by: The Great White Scotsman at March 19, 2015 09:59 AM (4oSLk)
Believe me, it has been going on for a lot longer than 20 years.
Posted by: Vic We Have No Party at March 19, 2015 10:04 AM (wlDny)
51
We are broke. We must cut spending. Please outline a 25% reduction in foreign deployments - so we can save money and bring our boys home. I predict the response will be underwhelming.
Posted by: ScoggDog
Watch this:
You're right. But we're showing fiscal toughness against defense spending that we WILL NOT show against welfare spending. DoD spending isn't nearly our biggest expense.
nevertheless, it should not be increased. We cannot afford it. We can't afford SS or the medimonsters either.
Posted by: ScoggDog
Watch this:
You're right. But we're showing fiscal toughness against defense spending that we WILL NOT show against welfare spending. DoD spending isn't nearly our biggest expense.
nevertheless, it should not be increased. We cannot afford it. We can't afford SS or the medimonsters either.
Posted by: Blue Hen at March 19, 2015 10:04 AM (Spluw)
52
If we're going to have a new conservative party, it's going to happen by
the last elements in the GOP with any real sense of being responsible
stewards breaking away and starting one.
At some point, someone should get to a Cruz or Perry (or similar) town hall-y thing and ask why they're running as republicans when the party is so clearly opposed to their values and policy preferences.
the last elements in the GOP with any real sense of being responsible
stewards breaking away and starting one.
At some point, someone should get to a Cruz or Perry (or similar) town hall-y thing and ask why they're running as republicans when the party is so clearly opposed to their values and policy preferences.
Posted by: Methos at March 19, 2015 10:04 AM (A6vWB)
53
Posted by: Vic We Have No Party at March 19, 2015 10:02 AM (wlDny)
As in... same shit that makes everything in DC so expensive.
So yeah, lots of waste and bullshit. SO I don't want to hear from anyone that our military can barely survive with only 17% of our budget.
As in... same shit that makes everything in DC so expensive.
So yeah, lots of waste and bullshit. SO I don't want to hear from anyone that our military can barely survive with only 17% of our budget.
Posted by: mynewhandle at March 19, 2015 10:04 AM (AkOaV)
54
Ah, the Republicans. How many divisions do they have?
Posted by: Barack O'Stalin at March 19, 2015 10:05 AM (lG2E3)
55
Posted by: Village Idiot's Apprentice at March 19, 2015 09:59 AM (PJOJz)
That is true. For all his faults, GW seemed (and sometimes seeming is all that matters) to really believe in the idea of the Servant Leader.
Score one for VIA. I don't remember Reagan all that well (I know, I know. You're lawn, get off it), but I can imagine him *also* being a Servant Leader.
But not GHW. Not BJ. Certainly not the SCOAMT. And none of the potential candidates on the horizon, either.
That is true. For all his faults, GW seemed (and sometimes seeming is all that matters) to really believe in the idea of the Servant Leader.
Score one for VIA. I don't remember Reagan all that well (I know, I know. You're lawn, get off it), but I can imagine him *also* being a Servant Leader.
But not GHW. Not BJ. Certainly not the SCOAMT. And none of the potential candidates on the horizon, either.
Posted by: AllenG (DedicatedTenther) - TrueCon at March 19, 2015 10:05 AM (kff5f)
56
The crack leadership team did their own whip count and said the chairman was wrong, there were enough votes. As usual, leadership was wrong.
BTW - the current committee is 22 Republicans and 14 Democrats.
Simple majority to advance the bill?
The crack leadership team did their own whip count and said the chairman was wrong, there were enough votes. As usual, leadership was wrong.
BTW - the current committee is 22 Republicans and 14 Democrats.
Simple majority to advance the bill?
Posted by: Laurie David's Cervix at March 19, 2015 10:05 AM (kdS6q)
57
Blue Spring State Park in Volusia County. Manatees are a protected species, so you'll want to hunt only at night.
Posted by: Insomniac at March 19, 2015 10:00 AM (2Ojst)
With a night scope and infra light, or will catch your ass
Posted by: Insomniac at March 19, 2015 10:00 AM (2Ojst)
With a night scope and infra light, or will catch your ass
Posted by: Bubba, FL game warden at March 19, 2015 10:06 AM (0FSuD)
58
6 I see being angry at our GOPe masters is going to be a permenent phenomenon.
Posted by: Kreplach at March 19, 2015 09:52 AM (7sYcg)
as it should be
Posted by: Kreplach at March 19, 2015 09:52 AM (7sYcg)
as it should be
Posted by: Shoey at March 19, 2015 10:06 AM (vA94g)
59
At some point, someone should get to a Cruz or Perry (or similar) town hall-y thing and ask why they're running as republicans when the party is so clearly opposed to their values and policy preferences.
Someone should ask Jeff Sessions the same question.
Someone should ask Jeff Sessions the same question.
Posted by: Cloyd Freud, Unemployed at March 19, 2015 10:06 AM (lG2E3)
60
Posted by: DrewM. at March 19, 2015 10:03 AM (r5Qcm)
Oh, okay, good.
So we won't get a final budget for a long time then?
Basically, my point is that I'd rather see our betters in DC waste a year bickering over spending then trying to find new legislation to pass and new ways to fuck with my life.
Oh, okay, good.
So we won't get a final budget for a long time then?
Basically, my point is that I'd rather see our betters in DC waste a year bickering over spending then trying to find new legislation to pass and new ways to fuck with my life.
Posted by: mynewhandle at March 19, 2015 10:06 AM (AkOaV)
61
Simple majority to advance the bill?
Possible some of them were too busy doing their full-time job - fundraising from The Chamber - to do their distraction/hobby - representing us.
Possible some of them were too busy doing their full-time job - fundraising from The Chamber - to do their distraction/hobby - representing us.
Posted by: DocJ at March 19, 2015 10:06 AM (zrsn3)
62
Since, as you say, this is a political blog, your energy might be better spent pointing out the exact reason why this is happening.
It is simple: there is not a "GOP" in any real sense anymore. There is a structure they all pay lip service to, with at least two major factions and several minor factions. It's worse than a parliamentary system with a pack of small parties, and since the Democrats are small but unified, they can temporarily align with any of the GOP factions to win on any specific issue.
The factions in the GOP are fighting for control, and for their place in the future, and therefore all of them are more interested in destroying the aspirations of all of the other GOP factions than they care about the outcome of any specific vote or any particular policy.
And you shouldn't really blame them, because that's what civil wars look like, that's how civil wars play out. There is a civil war within the dead framework called "The GOP" to see which faction can come out on top when the hoped for self destruct of the dem party takes place. Which may or may not happen.
So that's what's behind all of this chaos that you see, and that's why no one really wants to talk about it openly. But you should.
It is simple: there is not a "GOP" in any real sense anymore. There is a structure they all pay lip service to, with at least two major factions and several minor factions. It's worse than a parliamentary system with a pack of small parties, and since the Democrats are small but unified, they can temporarily align with any of the GOP factions to win on any specific issue.
The factions in the GOP are fighting for control, and for their place in the future, and therefore all of them are more interested in destroying the aspirations of all of the other GOP factions than they care about the outcome of any specific vote or any particular policy.
And you shouldn't really blame them, because that's what civil wars look like, that's how civil wars play out. There is a civil war within the dead framework called "The GOP" to see which faction can come out on top when the hoped for self destruct of the dem party takes place. Which may or may not happen.
So that's what's behind all of this chaos that you see, and that's why no one really wants to talk about it openly. But you should.
Posted by: Tom Servo at March 19, 2015 10:06 AM (Kpl3J)
Posted by: FDR's Television at March 19, 2015 10:07 AM (ne2fm)
Posted by: ScoggDog at March 19, 2015 10:07 AM (ZUUI1)
65
Well, the GOP is serious about one thing and will manage to get this through somehow, using whatever legislative maneuvers, negotiations and compromise necessary: Spending more money. Good them standing up for something.
Posted by: George Orwell de Leon at March 19, 2015 10:07 AM (1BQGO)
66
At some point, someone should get to a Cruz or Perry (or similar) town hall-y thing and ask why they're running as republicans when the party is so clearly opposed to their values and policy preferences.
That would be fantastic.
That would be fantastic.
Posted by: AllenG (DedicatedTenther) - TrueCon at March 19, 2015 10:07 AM (kff5f)
67
Before you skin that Manatee, you might want to have your way with it.
All the prison guards swear by it. That's our story and we are sticking to it.
All the prison guards swear by it. That's our story and we are sticking to it.
Posted by: Bubba, FL game warden at March 19, 2015 10:07 AM (0FSuD)
68
You're right. But we're showing fiscal toughness against defense spending that we WILL NOT show against welfare spending. DoD spending isn't nearly our biggest expense.
nevertheless, it should not be increased. We cannot afford it. We can't afford SS or the medimonsters either.
Posted by: Blue Hen at March 19, 2015 10:04 AM (Spluw)
And, let's not forget, defense spending is the only category mentioned that's actually Constitutionally authorized.
nevertheless, it should not be increased. We cannot afford it. We can't afford SS or the medimonsters either.
Posted by: Blue Hen at March 19, 2015 10:04 AM (Spluw)
And, let's not forget, defense spending is the only category mentioned that's actually Constitutionally authorized.
Posted by: Insomniac at March 19, 2015 10:08 AM (2Ojst)
69
Basically, my point is that I'd rather see our betters in DC waste a
year bickering over spending then trying to find new legislation to pass
and new ways to fuck with my life.
They can't walk and chew gum (most of them, at least), but don't think for a second the "fuck with your life" machine isn't still working overtime.
year bickering over spending then trying to find new legislation to pass
and new ways to fuck with my life.
They can't walk and chew gum (most of them, at least), but don't think for a second the "fuck with your life" machine isn't still working overtime.
Posted by: DocJ at March 19, 2015 10:08 AM (zrsn3)
70
53 So yeah, lots of waste and bullshit. SO I don't want
to hear from anyone that our military can barely survive with only 17%
of our budget.
Posted by: mynewhandle at March 19, 2015 10:04 AM (AkOaV)
In the 50s it was 50%+ of our budget. Of course the budget wasn't measured in the trillions then either.
to hear from anyone that our military can barely survive with only 17%
of our budget.
Posted by: mynewhandle at March 19, 2015 10:04 AM (AkOaV)
In the 50s it was 50%+ of our budget. Of course the budget wasn't measured in the trillions then either.
Posted by: Vic We Have No Party at March 19, 2015 10:08 AM (wlDny)
71
Posted by: Methos at March 19, 2015 10:04 AM (A6vWB)
In point of fact... find one in DFW (early enough for me to get the time off), and I'll volunteer as tribute.
In point of fact... find one in DFW (early enough for me to get the time off), and I'll volunteer as tribute.
Posted by: AllenG (DedicatedTenther) - TrueCon at March 19, 2015 10:08 AM (kff5f)
72
The chaos signaled a minor vote-counting crisis
I kinda lost it right there.
Shit, who is the Whip now, I should know and I don't, I'm assuming because I have suppressed it.
YOU HAVE ONE JOB, WHIP! ONE. JOB.
We're back to the demonstrated lack of competence issue. If you cannot make sure to have the vote count in line before you start such an important matter, then you cannot do your job.
You know, I'm one of those people who is somewhat first we fund DoD and then we'll talk everything else. That being said, I am not super naive and I know that the Defense budget has fat in it because venal humans prepare the budget and thus it will.
So this is a fight that I do believe is worth having. It is.
But not like this you incompetent twits!
*throws things*
*deep calming breaths*
Two hours. Two hours to tip off. Two hours.
I kinda lost it right there.
Shit, who is the Whip now, I should know and I don't, I'm assuming because I have suppressed it.
YOU HAVE ONE JOB, WHIP! ONE. JOB.
We're back to the demonstrated lack of competence issue. If you cannot make sure to have the vote count in line before you start such an important matter, then you cannot do your job.
You know, I'm one of those people who is somewhat first we fund DoD and then we'll talk everything else. That being said, I am not super naive and I know that the Defense budget has fat in it because venal humans prepare the budget and thus it will.
So this is a fight that I do believe is worth having. It is.
But not like this you incompetent twits!
*throws things*
*deep calming breaths*
Two hours. Two hours to tip off. Two hours.
Posted by: alexthechick - Jazz Hands Gojira at March 19, 2015 10:08 AM (mf5HN)
73
31
I know you're tired of reading "GOP sucks" posts.
Not really. Because the preferred solution isn't to stop talking about how much the GOP sucks, but rather for the GOP to stop sucking quite so much.
Posted by: Laurie David's Cervix at March 19, 2015 09:58 AM (kdS6q)
exactly
I know you're tired of reading "GOP sucks" posts.
Not really. Because the preferred solution isn't to stop talking about how much the GOP sucks, but rather for the GOP to stop sucking quite so much.
Posted by: Laurie David's Cervix at March 19, 2015 09:58 AM (kdS6q)
exactly
Posted by: Shoey at March 19, 2015 10:08 AM (vA94g)
74
67 Before you skin that Manatee, you might want to have your way with it.
All the prison guards swear by it. That's our story and we are sticking to it.
Posted by: Bubba, FL game warden at March 19, 2015 10:07 AM (0FSuD)
I always thought it was stuff then mount, but hey, whatever you're into.
All the prison guards swear by it. That's our story and we are sticking to it.
Posted by: Bubba, FL game warden at March 19, 2015 10:07 AM (0FSuD)
I always thought it was stuff then mount, but hey, whatever you're into.
Posted by: Insomniac at March 19, 2015 10:09 AM (2Ojst)
75
Try putting the pressure on the assholes taking one dive after another. They've produced nothing. Why attack Cruz, unless it's to give him an opportunity to shine by contrast?
Strike that. TELL THEM that the bullshit promises mean nothing anyomore. They haven't demonstrated one difference between themselves and the dems. Not one dollar in real spedning, the rate of growth in the government, or the overreach of bloated, unelected bureaucracies.
Strike that. TELL THEM that the bullshit promises mean nothing anyomore. They haven't demonstrated one difference between themselves and the dems. Not one dollar in real spedning, the rate of growth in the government, or the overreach of bloated, unelected bureaucracies.
Posted by: Blue Hen at March 19, 2015 10:09 AM (Spluw)
76
OK, tomorrow is Friday. Can we have cheery fun day of no doom, etc and lots of boobs?
Posted by: Nip Sip at March 19, 2015 10:09 AM (0FSuD)
77
72
Shit, who is the Whip now, I should know and I don't, I'm assuming because I have suppressed it.
I think it's Kevin McCarthy, my rep, who generally runs unopposed so that I don't have an opportunity to vote against him.
Shit, who is the Whip now, I should know and I don't, I'm assuming because I have suppressed it.
I think it's Kevin McCarthy, my rep, who generally runs unopposed so that I don't have an opportunity to vote against him.
Posted by: Anachronda at March 19, 2015 10:11 AM (o78gS)
78
76
OK, tomorrow is Friday. Can we have cheery fun day of no doom, etc and lots of boobs?
Posted by: Nip Sip at March 19, 2015 10:09 AM (0FSuD)
Not the usual boobs that post here, you know tits and all. Maybe guns?
OK, tomorrow is Friday. Can we have cheery fun day of no doom, etc and lots of boobs?
Posted by: Nip Sip at March 19, 2015 10:09 AM (0FSuD)
Not the usual boobs that post here, you know tits and all. Maybe guns?
Posted by: Nip Sip at March 19, 2015 10:11 AM (0FSuD)
79
What would happen if like 70 members of congress just up and left the GOP refusing to Caucus with either side. Could we give Pelosi back the speakers gavel, and they hold the entire house hostage until we get a good speaker candidate, caucus with the GOP and then take the speakership back on our own terms, holding a gun to the head of the establishment knowing that we can return Pelosi to the thrown at any moment.
We could do it in the Senate as well, with less people.
Seems to me that's the easiest way to make a legitimate third party viable, just up and do it.
We could do it in the Senate as well, with less people.
Seems to me that's the easiest way to make a legitimate third party viable, just up and do it.
Posted by: Dr. Shatterhand at March 19, 2015 10:11 AM (n/ogz)
80
Believe me, it has been going on for a lot longer than 20 years.
Posted by: Vic We Have No Party
You remember when John Adams destroyed the Constitution by signing the Alien and Sedition Acts, right?
Posted by: Vic We Have No Party
You remember when John Adams destroyed the Constitution by signing the Alien and Sedition Acts, right?
Posted by: Moderate Salami at March 19, 2015 10:12 AM (/Ho8c)
81
Posted by: Vic We Have No Party at March 19, 2015 10:08 AM (wlDny)
Well, I'd have no problem with defense being 50% of the budget if the budget was the same size as it was back in the days of black and white TVs.
But in an era of medicare, medicaid, exploding social security obligations, interest on the debt (breath), not to mention all of the "discretionary" spending like the various flavors of welfare, highway slush finds, other slush funds, stimulii, etc. 17% of all of that money is somewhere between an assload and a fuckton of money.
Well, I'd have no problem with defense being 50% of the budget if the budget was the same size as it was back in the days of black and white TVs.
But in an era of medicare, medicaid, exploding social security obligations, interest on the debt (breath), not to mention all of the "discretionary" spending like the various flavors of welfare, highway slush finds, other slush funds, stimulii, etc. 17% of all of that money is somewhere between an assload and a fuckton of money.
Posted by: mynewhandle at March 19, 2015 10:13 AM (AkOaV)
82
2 years ago I was one of the dopes who opposed a third party. Now it cant come fast enough. I wouldnt even expect it to govern: Im just petty and vindictive and wanna see the GOP reduced to permanent minority status.
Posted by: Elize Nayden at March 19, 2015 10:13 AM (dpYKC)
83
You remember when John Adams destroyed the Constitution by signing the Alien and Sedition Acts, right?
Posted by: Moderate Salami at March 19, 2015 10:12 AM (/Ho8c)
I drove Vic to the signing. Cold wet day.
Posted by: Moderate Salami at March 19, 2015 10:12 AM (/Ho8c)
I drove Vic to the signing. Cold wet day.
Posted by: Nip Sip at March 19, 2015 10:13 AM (0FSuD)
84
Competence is no longer a requirement of rank. It used to be requirement No. 1.
It's who you know, and how well you kiss the right asses. Ability and accomplishments are tertiary.
Congress is no different than contemporary corporate America in that regard.
It's who you know, and how well you kiss the right asses. Ability and accomplishments are tertiary.
Congress is no different than contemporary corporate America in that regard.
Posted by: Bob's House of Flannel Shirts and Wallet Chains at March 19, 2015 10:13 AM (vgIRn)
85
That being said, I am not super naive and I know that the Defense budget has fat in it because venal humans prepare the budget and thus it will.
"If only we had a Department of Waste, Fraud, and Abuse I would vote to eliminate it".
- or words to that effect by Ronald Reagan
That being said, I am not super naive and I know that the Defense budget has fat in it because venal humans prepare the budget and thus it will.
"If only we had a Department of Waste, Fraud, and Abuse I would vote to eliminate it".
- or words to that effect by Ronald Reagan
Posted by: Bandersnatch at March 19, 2015 10:13 AM (JtwS4)
86
How many more bases are we supposed to close? We've handed Central Europe to Russia with our base closings already. Comingling defense cuts with other budget cuts might sound "fair" to some, but it sounds idiotic to me.
"Hey honey, I just cut our monthly cable bill by 50%! "
"That's great! But to be fair, now we have to cut our food budget in half, our medicine budget in half and our housing budget in half."
"Well, it's the fiscally conservative thing to do, dear. Sure, we might lose the youngest, she's already lookng a bit sickly, and living in public housing might not be convenient to my golf course, but we are consistent, woman, and that's what matters".
"Hey honey, I just cut our monthly cable bill by 50%! "
"That's great! But to be fair, now we have to cut our food budget in half, our medicine budget in half and our housing budget in half."
"Well, it's the fiscally conservative thing to do, dear. Sure, we might lose the youngest, she's already lookng a bit sickly, and living in public housing might not be convenient to my golf course, but we are consistent, woman, and that's what matters".
Posted by: Lincolntf at March 19, 2015 10:14 AM (2cS/G)
87
Seems to me that's the easiest way to make a legitimate third party viable, just up and do it.
The problem is politicians. They want their perks, and that would definitely keep them from getting any- at least for a couple years.
AND it's a "shot at the King" kind of thing- if they try and fail, they're pariahs (among those about whose opinions they really care) for the rest of their lives.
So you have to find people willing to die trying (metaphorically speaking), and I just don't think there 70 of those.
The problem is politicians. They want their perks, and that would definitely keep them from getting any- at least for a couple years.
AND it's a "shot at the King" kind of thing- if they try and fail, they're pariahs (among those about whose opinions they really care) for the rest of their lives.
So you have to find people willing to die trying (metaphorically speaking), and I just don't think there 70 of those.
Posted by: AllenG (DedicatedTenther) - TrueCon at March 19, 2015 10:14 AM (kff5f)
88
"etc and lots of boobs?"
AKA the day that the Horde takes a field trip to the halls of Congress.
Bus leaves the Starbucks parking lot at 6:00am.
Arrives in D.C. at 10:00am.
AtC will be our guide, and spokesperson.
Bring a light lunch, and bail money.
AKA the day that the Horde takes a field trip to the halls of Congress.
Bus leaves the Starbucks parking lot at 6:00am.
Arrives in D.C. at 10:00am.
AtC will be our guide, and spokesperson.
Bring a light lunch, and bail money.
Posted by: Village Idiot's Apprentice at March 19, 2015 10:14 AM (PJOJz)
89
What would happen if like 70 members of congress just up and left the GOP refusing to Caucus with either side.
They'd lose all their reelection cash from The Chamber of Commerce - they actual bosses. So theoretically possible, but won't happen.
7? Maybe. 70? Not a chance.
They'd lose all their reelection cash from The Chamber of Commerce - they actual bosses. So theoretically possible, but won't happen.
7? Maybe. 70? Not a chance.
Posted by: DocJ at March 19, 2015 10:14 AM (zrsn3)
90
Posted by: Moderate Salami at March 19, 2015 10:12 AM (/Ho8c)
Yeah, Vic was posting on Ye Olde Bloge back then to express his displeasure.
Yeah, Vic was posting on Ye Olde Bloge back then to express his displeasure.
Posted by: mynewhandle at March 19, 2015 10:14 AM (AkOaV)
91
Im just petty and vindictive and wanna see the GOP reduced to permanent minority status.
Pining for the fiords. Bleeding demised. An ex-party.
Pining for the fiords. Bleeding demised. An ex-party.
Posted by: Cloyd Freud, Unemployed at March 19, 2015 10:14 AM (lG2E3)
92
Here's the deal ... and i truly believe this ...
You could take twenty of us, put us in a room, and in a week I think we could walk out with a defense budget with 2/3 approval.
Why ? Not because we all think the same. We certainly do not. However, WE'RE MORE OR LESS FUCKING HONEST AND AT LEAST A BIT DAMNED RATIONAL !!!
The current GOP ... not so much.
You could take twenty of us, put us in a room, and in a week I think we could walk out with a defense budget with 2/3 approval.
Why ? Not because we all think the same. We certainly do not. However, WE'RE MORE OR LESS FUCKING HONEST AND AT LEAST A BIT DAMNED RATIONAL !!!
The current GOP ... not so much.
Posted by: ScoggDog at March 19, 2015 10:14 AM (ZUUI1)
93
Why do you people put up with this shit?
Posted by: Jefferson's Ghost at March 19, 2015 10:15 AM (QSU3+)
Posted by: Irainian women at March 19, 2015 10:15 AM (0FSuD)
95
I follow the news pretty closely. I'm pretty sure none of that was what the GOP promised.
You wanted fiscal responsibility.
You would have settled for social conservatism.
We got continued DemocRAT control.
You wanted fiscal responsibility.
You would have settled for social conservatism.
We got continued DemocRAT control.
Posted by: steveegg at March 19, 2015 10:16 AM (cL79m)
96
I decided yesterday that I'm going to type a letter and send it to Sen McConnell, Speaker Boehner, reince priebus, my two senators Burr and Tillis and my Rep. The name for my return address will be "I quit the GOP". In addition to my own thoughts, i'm printing and sending a copy of Ace's post from last (found http://acecomments.mu.nu/?post=355602) with the URL and will invite them to read the comments.
Then I'm changing my registration to unaffiliated.
Then I'm changing my registration to unaffiliated.
Posted by: Brian at March 19, 2015 10:16 AM (VbdLA)
97
Posted by: Lincolntf at March 19, 2015 10:14 AM (2cS/G)
Well, we cannot fund the most lavishly funded military in the history of the world, insert ourselves as the lynchpin in every 2 bit centuries old dispute around the world, keep the sea lanes open, have adventures around Muslimistan, and still pay for the most lavishly funded welfare system known to man.
And it's much easier to cut military obligations than it is to cut welfare.
So there you have it.
Well, we cannot fund the most lavishly funded military in the history of the world, insert ourselves as the lynchpin in every 2 bit centuries old dispute around the world, keep the sea lanes open, have adventures around Muslimistan, and still pay for the most lavishly funded welfare system known to man.
And it's much easier to cut military obligations than it is to cut welfare.
So there you have it.
Posted by: mynewhandle at March 19, 2015 10:17 AM (AkOaV)
98
How many more bases are we supposed to close? We've handed Central Europe to Russia with our base closings already.
It may be wrong, but if the EuroWeenies are unwilling to pay for their own defense I'm no longer interested in borrowing my great-grandkids' yet to be born into permanent debt slavery to defend them.
It may be wrong, but if the EuroWeenies are unwilling to pay for their own defense I'm no longer interested in borrowing my great-grandkids' yet to be born into permanent debt slavery to defend them.
Posted by: DocJ at March 19, 2015 10:17 AM (zrsn3)
99
Why do you people put up with this shit?
Posted by: Jefferson's Ghost
I really don't know, sir.
I've been trying to figure out what to do about it for several years, and don't have a viable answer.
Posted by: Jefferson's Ghost
I really don't know, sir.
I've been trying to figure out what to do about it for several years, and don't have a viable answer.
Posted by: Moderate Salami at March 19, 2015 10:17 AM (/Ho8c)
100
In point of fact... find one in DFW (early enough for me to get the time off), and I'll volunteer as tribute.
Okay, I'll make a note to look when they announce announce.
Obviously here in chicago I'll never see anyone worth asking.
Okay, I'll make a note to look when they announce announce.
Obviously here in chicago I'll never see anyone worth asking.
Posted by: Methos at March 19, 2015 10:17 AM (A6vWB)
101
Just for something different here on the blog, maybe we should bitch at the Democrats for awhile.
Posted by: MTF, Vote For The One GOP Insiders Hate! at March 19, 2015 10:17 AM (FCsIb)
102
I've seen this movie before. Everybody dies.... Badly.
Posted by: Iblis at March 19, 2015 10:17 AM (9221z)
103
So now the House GOP can't produce a budget resolution because of a schism in the party.
-----
Good. At least there is a schism. The goal is for the conservatives to win the divide.
Newsflash - the establishment is not going to give up easily.
-----
Good. At least there is a schism. The goal is for the conservatives to win the divide.
Newsflash - the establishment is not going to give up easily.
Posted by: SH at March 19, 2015 10:17 AM (gmeXX)
104
You could take twenty of us, put us in a room, and in a week I think we could walk out with a defense budget with 2/3 approval.
Of course, it would help if had one of them, waddya call its....national strategies.
Of course, it would help if had one of them, waddya call its....national strategies.
Posted by: Circa (Insert Year Here) at March 19, 2015 10:17 AM (659DL)
105
I predict the response will be underwhelming.
Posted by: ScoggDog at March 19, 2015 10:02 AM (ZUUI1)
There is fairly broad support on this blog for an end to us basically being Europe's defense force.
Scale back in Germany, and the UK. I'd keep forces likely in Poland and other former soviet block countries that are now NATO allies.
Posted by: ScoggDog at March 19, 2015 10:02 AM (ZUUI1)
There is fairly broad support on this blog for an end to us basically being Europe's defense force.
Scale back in Germany, and the UK. I'd keep forces likely in Poland and other former soviet block countries that are now NATO allies.
Posted by: tsrblke, PhD(c) who misses sleep at March 19, 2015 10:18 AM (HDwDg)
106
I knew I'd get somebody. Thanks linc.
Posted by: ScoggDog at March 19, 2015 10:18 AM (ZUUI1)
107
Screw this. Moving to Fla and becoming a Manatee hunting guide.
Posted by: wrg500 at March 19, 2015 09:55 AM (C278+)
*plots and plots and plots*
Posted by: wrg500 at March 19, 2015 09:55 AM (C278+)
*plots and plots and plots*
Posted by: alexthechick - Jazz Hands Gojira at March 19, 2015 10:18 AM (mf5HN)
108
Yeah, Vic was posting on Ye Olde Bloge back then to express his displeasure.
Posted by: mynewhandle at March 19, 2015 10:14 AM (AkOaV)
He didn't have an Id then, no one did, so he could drink at 12.
Posted by: mynewhandle at March 19, 2015 10:14 AM (AkOaV)
He didn't have an Id then, no one did, so he could drink at 12.
Posted by: Irainian women at March 19, 2015 10:18 AM (0FSuD)
109
A Venn diagram of the actual goals of the GOP and the stated goals of the GOP is all you need to see.
Posted by: eman at March 19, 2015 10:19 AM (MQEz6)
110
A Venn diagram of the actual goals of the GOP and the stated goals of the GOP is all you need to see.
O O
There.
O O
There.
Posted by: AllenG (DedicatedTenther) - TrueCon at March 19, 2015 10:19 AM (kff5f)
111
102
I've seen this movie before. Everybody dies.... Badly.
Posted by: Iblis at March 19, 2015 10:17 AM (9221z)
And it's STILL Boosh's fault
I've seen this movie before. Everybody dies.... Badly.
Posted by: Iblis at March 19, 2015 10:17 AM (9221z)
And it's STILL Boosh's fault
Posted by: Nip Sip at March 19, 2015 10:19 AM (0FSuD)
112
Yeah, Vic was posting on Ye Olde Bloge back then to express his displeasure.
Posting was an actual post.
Posting was an actual post.
Posted by: Circa (Insert Year Here) at March 19, 2015 10:20 AM (659DL)
113
101 Just for something different here on the blog, maybe we should bitch at the Democrats for awhile.
Posted by: MTF, Vote For The One GOP Insiders Hate! at March 19, 2015 10:17 AM (FCsIb)
I understand the sentiment, but...we expect them to be f*cksticks, and act against our individual and national interests. It stings a hell of a lot more when the people who claim to represent you enable it or directly participate in it.
Posted by: MTF, Vote For The One GOP Insiders Hate! at March 19, 2015 10:17 AM (FCsIb)
I understand the sentiment, but...we expect them to be f*cksticks, and act against our individual and national interests. It stings a hell of a lot more when the people who claim to represent you enable it or directly participate in it.
Posted by: Insomniac at March 19, 2015 10:20 AM (2Ojst)
114
How many more bases are we supposed to close? We've handed Central Europe to Russia with our base closings already. Comingling defense cuts with other budget cuts might sound "fair" to some, but it sounds idiotic to me. "Hey honey, I just cut our monthly cable bill by 50%! " "That's great! But to be fair, now we have to cut our food budget in half, our medicine budget in half and our housing budget in half." "Well, it's the fiscally conservative thing to do, dear. Sure, we might lose the youngest, she's already lookng a bit sickly, and living in public housing might not be convenient to my golf course, but we are consistent, woman, and that's what matters".
Posted by: Lincolntf
And the point made above was proven.
1. We didn't lose Central Europe. The EU doesn't begin to spend what it ought. The UK is paring back its already small forces to keep the welfare state going. France and Germany are the same.
2. Your analogy sucks. The federal government is not a household. Household can live without cable tv or tv.
3. The Federal Government is printing and/or borrowing 40% of what it spends. We should not increase defense spending our our committments. We should be gutting most everything else.
Posted by: Lincolntf
And the point made above was proven.
1. We didn't lose Central Europe. The EU doesn't begin to spend what it ought. The UK is paring back its already small forces to keep the welfare state going. France and Germany are the same.
2. Your analogy sucks. The federal government is not a household. Household can live without cable tv or tv.
3. The Federal Government is printing and/or borrowing 40% of what it spends. We should not increase defense spending our our committments. We should be gutting most everything else.
Posted by: Blue Hen at March 19, 2015 10:20 AM (Spluw)
115
But for example, our destroyers cost almost $2 billion to build. (Arleigh Burke class). Now I'm no ship building expert, but that's a lot of fucking money and I'm having a hard time figuring out how it's so expensive.
Posted by: mynewhandle
The South Korean modern Burke-ish destroyer, the Sejong the Great class, is coming in at $1.2 billion per, but the outyear cost is probably still underestimated.
And the Koreans have a functioning ship building industry, unlike the US, so that cost includes efficiency of scale and being high on the learning curve.
The US naval construction sucks, but the suck factor is probably 0.5 or so.
http://tinyurl.com/md9xsw4
But for example, our destroyers cost almost $2 billion to build. (Arleigh Burke class). Now I'm no ship building expert, but that's a lot of fucking money and I'm having a hard time figuring out how it's so expensive.
Posted by: mynewhandle
The South Korean modern Burke-ish destroyer, the Sejong the Great class, is coming in at $1.2 billion per, but the outyear cost is probably still underestimated.
And the Koreans have a functioning ship building industry, unlike the US, so that cost includes efficiency of scale and being high on the learning curve.
The US naval construction sucks, but the suck factor is probably 0.5 or so.
http://tinyurl.com/md9xsw4
Posted by: Laurie David's Cervix at March 19, 2015 10:20 AM (kdS6q)
116
Those rascally Republicrats are at it again.
Posted by: Ricardo Kill at March 19, 2015 10:20 AM (LA7Cm)
117
Scale back in Germany? 90% of the forces from the Nineties are already gone. Old barracks and posts are shuttered, overgrown with weeds, lined by buckled sidewalks. Saw a pic of Bad Kreuznach the other day, looked like "After Humans".
Posted by: Lincolntf at March 19, 2015 10:20 AM (2cS/G)
118
Good. At least there is a schism. The goal is for the conservatives to win the divide.
Yeah, at least someone is trying to do their jobs.
I think they could find the money the DoD needs if they abolish the IRS. And or the EPA, And or the DoEd.
Yeah, at least someone is trying to do their jobs.
I think they could find the money the DoD needs if they abolish the IRS. And or the EPA, And or the DoEd.
Posted by: Iblis at March 19, 2015 10:20 AM (9221z)
119
There is a train of thought in military circles that goes along the line of eliminating the Diversity Diktat, and all the positions within it.
Probably a 5% reduction in defense spending right there.
Probably a 5% reduction in defense spending right there.
Posted by: Village Idiot's Apprentice at March 19, 2015 10:21 AM (PJOJz)
120
Posted by: DocJ at March 19, 2015 10:17 AM (zrsn3)
Yeah, I mean fuckin a.
Europeans have been fighting each other since the beginning of time. Now we've put a (temporary) stop to it by setting up camp in Germany and giving them the shifty eyes for 60 years, but everyone in Europe takes every chance they get to talk shit about us, and I'm sick of paying for it and asking my kids to pay for it.
If the socialist states of Europe want to defend themselves, great, if not, they should start learning German and/or Russian. Not my problem.
Same with Korea and Japan. They hate us -- good, fuck 'em. Good luck defending yourselves, I no longer have any shits left to give, and am sick of paying out the ass to support you and provide security. Both are rich countries, pay for your own defense.
US troops should be used to defend the US, not to defend everyone else on my (well, really, my grandkids) dime.
Yeah, I mean fuckin a.
Europeans have been fighting each other since the beginning of time. Now we've put a (temporary) stop to it by setting up camp in Germany and giving them the shifty eyes for 60 years, but everyone in Europe takes every chance they get to talk shit about us, and I'm sick of paying for it and asking my kids to pay for it.
If the socialist states of Europe want to defend themselves, great, if not, they should start learning German and/or Russian. Not my problem.
Same with Korea and Japan. They hate us -- good, fuck 'em. Good luck defending yourselves, I no longer have any shits left to give, and am sick of paying out the ass to support you and provide security. Both are rich countries, pay for your own defense.
US troops should be used to defend the US, not to defend everyone else on my (well, really, my grandkids) dime.
Posted by: mynewhandle at March 19, 2015 10:21 AM (AkOaV)
121
107 Screw this. Moving to Fla and becoming a Manatee hunting guide.
Posted by: wrg500 at March 19, 2015 09:55 AM (C278+)
*plots and plots and plots*
Posted by: alexthechick - Jazz Hands Gojira at March 19, 2015 10:18 AM (mf5HN)
*pssst* sotto voce He'll be in Blue Spring State Park, near Orange City. That's where the manatees are.
Posted by: wrg500 at March 19, 2015 09:55 AM (C278+)
*plots and plots and plots*
Posted by: alexthechick - Jazz Hands Gojira at March 19, 2015 10:18 AM (mf5HN)
*pssst* sotto voce He'll be in Blue Spring State Park, near Orange City. That's where the manatees are.
Posted by: Insomniac at March 19, 2015 10:21 AM (2Ojst)
122
Around much yesterday tsr ? My notion of letting Germany defend Germany was pretty much scoffed at.
Foolish nonsense, that is. Yes.
Foolish nonsense, that is. Yes.
Posted by: ScoggDog at March 19, 2015 10:21 AM (ZUUI1)
Posted by: Mel Gibson stabbing Jason Isaacs in the throat with a bayonet at March 19, 2015 10:21 AM (A6vWB)
124
Bitching at the Democrats is great fun and warranted, but they're not the ones in nominal control of Congress now.
The betrayal of the GOP stings a bit still.
The betrayal of the GOP stings a bit still.
Posted by: Moderate Salami at March 19, 2015 10:21 AM (/Ho8c)
125
A Venn diagram of the actual goals of the GOP and the stated goals of the GOP is all you need to see.
Posted by: eman at March 19, 2015 10:19 AM (MQEz6)
---
Yeah, the problem is that my house isnt big enough to portray the distance between these circles accurately. And I dont wanna travel out of state anyway, so...
Posted by: eman at March 19, 2015 10:19 AM (MQEz6)
---
Yeah, the problem is that my house isnt big enough to portray the distance between these circles accurately. And I dont wanna travel out of state anyway, so...
Posted by: Elize Nayden at March 19, 2015 10:21 AM (dpYKC)
126
Well, not everyone
Posted by: Mel Gibson stabbing Jason Isaacs in the throat with a bayonet
LOL
Braveheart in America.
Posted by: Mel Gibson stabbing Jason Isaacs in the throat with a bayonet
LOL
Braveheart in America.
Posted by: Moderate Salami at March 19, 2015 10:22 AM (/Ho8c)
127
Posted by: Lincolntf at March 19, 2015 10:20 AM (2cS/G)
Good, let the German military (haha) take it over.
They can defend themselves. (and/or invade neighbors themselves).
Good, let the German military (haha) take it over.
They can defend themselves. (and/or invade neighbors themselves).
Posted by: mynewhandle at March 19, 2015 10:22 AM (AkOaV)
128
107 Screw this. Moving to Fla and becoming a Manatee hunting guide.
Posted by: wrg500 at March 19, 2015 09:55 AM (C278+)
*plots and plots and plots*
Posted by: alexthechick - Jazz Hands Gojira at March 19, 2015 10:18 AM (mf5HN)
I'm thinking of becoming a Gentleman Sugar, Soda, and Bacon smuggler for when our elites decide to ban these for the masses.
Posted by: wrg500 at March 19, 2015 09:55 AM (C278+)
*plots and plots and plots*
Posted by: alexthechick - Jazz Hands Gojira at March 19, 2015 10:18 AM (mf5HN)
I'm thinking of becoming a Gentleman Sugar, Soda, and Bacon smuggler for when our elites decide to ban these for the masses.
Posted by: Iblis at March 19, 2015 10:22 AM (9221z)
Posted by: Cloyd Freud, Unemployed at March 19, 2015 10:23 AM (lG2E3)
130
*pssst* sotto voce He'll be in Blue Spring State Park, near Orange City. That's where the manatees are.
Posted by: Insomniac
They also used to hang out at some of the TECO powerplant discharge points, IIRC.
Posted by: Insomniac
They also used to hang out at some of the TECO powerplant discharge points, IIRC.
Posted by: Moderate Salami at March 19, 2015 10:23 AM (/Ho8c)
131
What would happen if like 70 members of congress just up and left the GOP refusing to Caucus with either side. Could we give Pelosi back the speakers gavel, and they hold the entire house hostage until we get a good speaker candidate, caucus with the GOP and then take the speakership back on our own terms, holding a gun to the head of the establishment knowing that we can return Pelosi to the thrown at any moment.
We could do it in the Senate as well, with less people.
Seems to me that's the easiest way to make a legitimate third party viable, just up and do it.
Posted by: Dr. Shatterhand at March 19, 2015 10:11 AM (n/ogz)
Other than the DemocRATs having plurality control and their lackeys the RepublicRATs taking official "minority" status on all the committees (thus continuing to freeze out the "insurgents"), not much. You'd need about 125 in the House to kick the RepublicRATs out of the picture - otherwise the bipartisan Party-In-Government will continue to ru(i)n everything.
We could do it in the Senate as well, with less people.
Seems to me that's the easiest way to make a legitimate third party viable, just up and do it.
Posted by: Dr. Shatterhand at March 19, 2015 10:11 AM (n/ogz)
Other than the DemocRATs having plurality control and their lackeys the RepublicRATs taking official "minority" status on all the committees (thus continuing to freeze out the "insurgents"), not much. You'd need about 125 in the House to kick the RepublicRATs out of the picture - otherwise the bipartisan Party-In-Government will continue to ru(i)n everything.
Posted by: steveegg at March 19, 2015 10:24 AM (cL79m)
132
I knew I'd get somebody. Thanks linc.
Posted by: ScoggDog
Big surprise, you got one. There's always one. Your experiment proved to me yet another difference between the left and the right.
You can find people on the right that will argue in favor of reduced defense expenditures. You can find some that argue in favor of competence, and restraint, and the need for an equal standard applied to all.
Good luck finding any of that on the left. None of them are interested in reducing the welfare state, or the mess of public employee pensions. hell, they openly laud lynch mobs, rioting and racist voting wen it favors them.
Posted by: ScoggDog
Big surprise, you got one. There's always one. Your experiment proved to me yet another difference between the left and the right.
You can find people on the right that will argue in favor of reduced defense expenditures. You can find some that argue in favor of competence, and restraint, and the need for an equal standard applied to all.
Good luck finding any of that on the left. None of them are interested in reducing the welfare state, or the mess of public employee pensions. hell, they openly laud lynch mobs, rioting and racist voting wen it favors them.
Posted by: Blue Hen at March 19, 2015 10:24 AM (Spluw)
Posted by: Marmo at March 19, 2015 10:24 AM (QW+AD)
134
126 Well, not everyone
Posted by: Mel Gibson stabbing Jason Isaacs in the throat with a bayonet
LOL
Braveheart in America.
Posted by: Moderate Salami at March 19, 2015 10:22 AM (/Ho8c)
There's a reason "Revolve" is the root of "revolution". What comes around....
Posted by: Mel Gibson stabbing Jason Isaacs in the throat with a bayonet
LOL
Braveheart in America.
Posted by: Moderate Salami at March 19, 2015 10:22 AM (/Ho8c)
There's a reason "Revolve" is the root of "revolution". What comes around....
Posted by: Iblis at March 19, 2015 10:24 AM (9221z)
135
Because nothing saves money like a World War.
Posted by: Lincolntf at March 19, 2015 10:25 AM (2cS/G)
136
Gridlock is a good thing.
Posted by: Lauren at March 19, 2015 10:25 AM (kKKEV)
Posted by: Zap Rowsdower at March 19, 2015 10:25 AM (MMC8r)
138
122
Around much yesterday tsr ? My notion of letting Germany defend Germany was pretty much scoffed at.
Foolish nonsense, that is. Yes.
Posted by: ScoggDog at March 19, 2015 10:21 AM (ZUUI1)
This all goes back to the environment nuts. German and most of Europe are under the thumb of Russia gas and oil, BUT they will not frack, because you know environment or something.
Supposedly Europe is awash in fracking gas/oil, but they would rather pay Russia to keep Putin in.
NUTS.
Around much yesterday tsr ? My notion of letting Germany defend Germany was pretty much scoffed at.
Foolish nonsense, that is. Yes.
Posted by: ScoggDog at March 19, 2015 10:21 AM (ZUUI1)
This all goes back to the environment nuts. German and most of Europe are under the thumb of Russia gas and oil, BUT they will not frack, because you know environment or something.
Supposedly Europe is awash in fracking gas/oil, but they would rather pay Russia to keep Putin in.
NUTS.
Posted by: Nip Sip at March 19, 2015 10:25 AM (0FSuD)
139
Same with Korea and Japan. They hate us -- good, fuck 'em.
This is...not true.
We have some linchpins around which a strategy can be built.
Israel/Egypt
ROK/Japan/Australia
UK/Poland/Czechs
Enough air power to choke a mule.
Enough carrier groups to scare the remaining mules.
Enough submarines to starve them if necessary.
We also need a new generation ICBM.
This is...not true.
We have some linchpins around which a strategy can be built.
Israel/Egypt
ROK/Japan/Australia
UK/Poland/Czechs
Enough air power to choke a mule.
Enough carrier groups to scare the remaining mules.
Enough submarines to starve them if necessary.
We also need a new generation ICBM.
Posted by: Circa (Insert Year Here) at March 19, 2015 10:25 AM (659DL)
140
Good, let the German military (haha) take it over.
They can defend themselves. (and/or invade neighbors themselves).
Posted by: mynewhandle at March 19, 2015 10:22 AM (AkOaV)
---
I think nobody in Poland will be afraid of German broomsticks...
http://tinyurl.com/mrpzshd
They can defend themselves. (and/or invade neighbors themselves).
Posted by: mynewhandle at March 19, 2015 10:22 AM (AkOaV)
---
I think nobody in Poland will be afraid of German broomsticks...
http://tinyurl.com/mrpzshd
Posted by: Elize Nayden at March 19, 2015 10:25 AM (dpYKC)
141
Because nothing saves money like a World War.
Posted by: Lincolnt
Yeah, but just think of all the booming economies from replacing the broken shop windows!
Posted by: Lincolnt
Yeah, but just think of all the booming economies from replacing the broken shop windows!
Posted by: Moderate Salami at March 19, 2015 10:26 AM (/Ho8c)
142
A Venn diagram of the actual goals of the GOP and the stated goals of the GOP is all you need to see.
O O
There.
Posted by: AllenG (DedicatedTenther) - TrueCon at March 19, 2015 10:19 AM (kff5f)
Not enough space between the circles.
O
O
O O
There.
Posted by: AllenG (DedicatedTenther) - TrueCon at March 19, 2015 10:19 AM (kff5f)
Not enough space between the circles.
O
O
Posted by: steveegg at March 19, 2015 10:26 AM (cL79m)
143
Hurrah for revolution and more cannon-shot!
A beggar upon horseback lashes a beggar on foot,
Hurrah for revolution and cannon come again!
The beggars have changed places but the lash goes on.
A beggar upon horseback lashes a beggar on foot,
Hurrah for revolution and cannon come again!
The beggars have changed places but the lash goes on.
Posted by: Bandersnatch at March 19, 2015 10:26 AM (JtwS4)
144
The gang that couldn't shoot straight.
Last night after reading Ace's post about the GOP I got the feeling I was sandwiched between DrewM and Ace on a long bus ride.
Last night after reading Ace's post about the GOP I got the feeling I was sandwiched between DrewM and Ace on a long bus ride.
Posted by: Misanthropic Humanitarian at March 19, 2015 10:26 AM (vPh3W)
145
and look at the hill the GOPe has chosen to fight on... abortion - a social issue.
why?
... we all know why, because it is not an issue that reduces their power, perks or ability to control the process.
why?
... we all know why, because it is not an issue that reduces their power, perks or ability to control the process.
Posted by: Shoey at March 19, 2015 10:27 AM (vA94g)
146
We also need a new generation ICBM.
Posted by: Circa (Insert Year Here) at March 19, 2015 10:25 AM (659DL)
Submarine cruise missiles, we already have them.
Posted by: Circa (Insert Year Here) at March 19, 2015 10:25 AM (659DL)
Submarine cruise missiles, we already have them.
Posted by: Nip Sip at March 19, 2015 10:27 AM (0FSuD)
147
Oh, and by the way, Obamacare helps make this type of "magic" book keeping possible, by allowing a gigantic pool of money (one sixth of the economy) to be formed, that politicians can draw from (promising, obviously, to put back (a promise that won't be kept, by the way)) from which magic numbers will appear that prove that these off book programs are not only possible, but a great fucking idea!
Just don't look at the debt (or, more importantly, the unfunded obligations (socialized medicine for all, in this case)
Just don't look at the debt (or, more importantly, the unfunded obligations (socialized medicine for all, in this case)
Posted by: LoneStarHeeb at March 19, 2015 10:27 AM (BZAd3)
148
Submarine cruise missiles, we already have them.
I favor the triad. But the Minuteman is almost Vic old.
I favor the triad. But the Minuteman is almost Vic old.
Posted by: Circa (Insert Year Here) at March 19, 2015 10:28 AM (659DL)
149
As many of you know, the VIA family spent a fir amount of time, ( 7 years) stationed in the sleepy little town of Gaeta Italy. Google map will give you excellent satellite view of the area, as well as a better understanding of just how small the town is.
There were always those locals who complained about the military presence in the town, and eventually the Navy footprint was reduced to something barely north of nothing.
Some of our lifelong Italian friends have been sharing the difficulties that the town is facing due to those actions. Or as one Italian friend there put it "This is what you demanded, and got. Now live in your poverty and shut up"
There were always those locals who complained about the military presence in the town, and eventually the Navy footprint was reduced to something barely north of nothing.
Some of our lifelong Italian friends have been sharing the difficulties that the town is facing due to those actions. Or as one Italian friend there put it "This is what you demanded, and got. Now live in your poverty and shut up"
Posted by: Village Idiot's Apprentice at March 19, 2015 10:28 AM (PJOJz)
150
80 You remember when John Adams destroyed the Constitution by signing the Alien and Sedition Acts, right?
Posted by: Moderate Salami at March 19, 2015 10:12 AM (/Ho8c)
Actually (see previous post) he destroyed with that underhanded scheme to challenge the non-appointment of a justice of the peace and appointing and confirming Marshal as Chief Justice so they could steal the Constitution.
Posted by: Moderate Salami at March 19, 2015 10:12 AM (/Ho8c)
Actually (see previous post) he destroyed with that underhanded scheme to challenge the non-appointment of a justice of the peace and appointing and confirming Marshal as Chief Justice so they could steal the Constitution.
Posted by: Vic We Have No Party at March 19, 2015 10:28 AM (wlDny)
151
They also used to hang out at some of the TECO powerplant discharge points, IIRC.
Posted by: Moderate Salami at March 19, 2015 10:23 AM (/Ho8c)
The manatee population is up pretty significantly this year and I forget what county it is that there are a great deal more.
It's a huge mystery why they all went there. Huge.
In unrelated news, apparently the power plant in that county opened a new discharge point.
Posted by: Moderate Salami at March 19, 2015 10:23 AM (/Ho8c)
The manatee population is up pretty significantly this year and I forget what county it is that there are a great deal more.
It's a huge mystery why they all went there. Huge.
In unrelated news, apparently the power plant in that county opened a new discharge point.
Posted by: alexthechick - Jazz Hands Gojira at March 19, 2015 10:29 AM (mf5HN)
152
What is holding the GOP together?
-----
It is that the Democrat party is a very extreme party. Many center - left who may have once found a home in the Democrat party are no longer welcome there. Unfortunately, they have found somewhat of a home in the GOP - which as a party is the much stronger party.
The conservative side of the GOP is unfortunately in junior positions. But they are the future of the party and will one day be in the senior positions.
You don't need a senate with 51 Ted Cruz (though that would be nice). If you had 10 of them, that would shift the Senate much more to the right. Sometimes small gains can bring large shifts - in the balance of power.
I'm dissappointed with the GOP for sure. But I have reasons to be somewhat optimistic. But it will take more time and more elections to get to where we need to be.
-----
It is that the Democrat party is a very extreme party. Many center - left who may have once found a home in the Democrat party are no longer welcome there. Unfortunately, they have found somewhat of a home in the GOP - which as a party is the much stronger party.
The conservative side of the GOP is unfortunately in junior positions. But they are the future of the party and will one day be in the senior positions.
You don't need a senate with 51 Ted Cruz (though that would be nice). If you had 10 of them, that would shift the Senate much more to the right. Sometimes small gains can bring large shifts - in the balance of power.
I'm dissappointed with the GOP for sure. But I have reasons to be somewhat optimistic. But it will take more time and more elections to get to where we need to be.
Posted by: SH at March 19, 2015 10:29 AM (gmeXX)
153
So, um...seems kinda gloomy in here. Everybody doing okay?
Posted by: Turd Ferguson at March 19, 2015 10:29 AM (VAsIq)
154
Sometimes, things just need to be shaken up. Here are a few suggestions:
Trump should run against Hillary for the Democratic prez nomination.
Newt should run against Boehner for SOTH.
The rest of us should attend any Obama event we can get into and yell "Bullshit" at him during his speeches.
That's all I got.
Trump should run against Hillary for the Democratic prez nomination.
Newt should run against Boehner for SOTH.
The rest of us should attend any Obama event we can get into and yell "Bullshit" at him during his speeches.
That's all I got.
Posted by: VA MK Z at March 19, 2015 10:30 AM (NbkLI)
155
Since Ross Perot I have suggested the need for a third party. I get the same answers, I'm an idiot. Ok, I can accept that, maybe I am. But if you do what you've always done, You'll get what you've always got. That's what the article says, We gave them the house and the Senate, 2/3rds of the Government.
We sent them to stop this craziness. They really don't have to "DO" much of anything, just keep it from getting worse till we have another President. But they like those big checks from the lobbyists. The amount of money flowing out of K street because of O care dwarfs anything ever before seen. People are getting filthy FKN rich on tax dollars.
It will take time, and things will get worse. But we will never know if the masses are ready for something else until we offer it to them. I think it's time.
We sent them to stop this craziness. They really don't have to "DO" much of anything, just keep it from getting worse till we have another President. But they like those big checks from the lobbyists. The amount of money flowing out of K street because of O care dwarfs anything ever before seen. People are getting filthy FKN rich on tax dollars.
It will take time, and things will get worse. But we will never know if the masses are ready for something else until we offer it to them. I think it's time.
Posted by: Oldsailors Poet at March 19, 2015 10:30 AM (KbNXw)
156
Posted by: Circa (Insert Year Here) at March 19, 2015 10:25 AM (659DL)
Oh man....
It's disheartening. It really is.
Oh man....
It's disheartening. It really is.
Posted by: mynewhandle at March 19, 2015 10:30 AM (AkOaV)
157
81 But in an era of medicare, medicaid, exploding
social security obligations, interest on the debt (breath), not to
mention all of the "discretionary" spending like the various flavors of
welfare, highway slush finds, other slush funds, stimulii, etc. 17% of
all of that money is somewhere between an assload and a fuckton of
money.
Posted by: mynewhandle at March 19, 2015 10:13 AM (AkOaV)
Sounds to me like we need to be cutting all that massive amount of social welfare spending before we even look at defense.
social security obligations, interest on the debt (breath), not to
mention all of the "discretionary" spending like the various flavors of
welfare, highway slush finds, other slush funds, stimulii, etc. 17% of
all of that money is somewhere between an assload and a fuckton of
money.
Posted by: mynewhandle at March 19, 2015 10:13 AM (AkOaV)
Sounds to me like we need to be cutting all that massive amount of social welfare spending before we even look at defense.
Posted by: Vic We Have No Party at March 19, 2015 10:30 AM (wlDny)
158
That's ok. We'll put something together, and John will just approve that. Isn't that right, sugartits?
*slaps Boehner on ass*
*slaps Boehner on ass*
Posted by: Nancy Pelosi at March 19, 2015 10:31 AM (6mll/)
159
The conservative side of the GOP is unfortunately in junior positions.
But they are the future of the party and will one day be in the senior
positions.
Been hearing this tripe my entire adult life. And while I'm not Vic old, I'm no spring chicken either. Nice dream, wake me when it happens. I will likely have reached room-temperature a decade hence by then.
But they are the future of the party and will one day be in the senior
positions.
Been hearing this tripe my entire adult life. And while I'm not Vic old, I'm no spring chicken either. Nice dream, wake me when it happens. I will likely have reached room-temperature a decade hence by then.
Posted by: DocJ at March 19, 2015 10:31 AM (zrsn3)
160
I favor the triad. But the Minuteman is almost Vic old.
Posted by: Circa (Insert Year Here) at March 19, 2015 10:28 AM (659DL)
If only we had developed a successor missile...oh wait, we did but because it was too potent, we scrapped it while the Soviets kept their massively-MIRVed ICBMs.
Posted by: Circa (Insert Year Here) at March 19, 2015 10:28 AM (659DL)
If only we had developed a successor missile...oh wait, we did but because it was too potent, we scrapped it while the Soviets kept their massively-MIRVed ICBMs.
Posted by: steveegg at March 19, 2015 10:31 AM (cL79m)
161
Actually (see previous post) he destroyed with
that underhanded scheme to challenge the non-appointment of a justice of
the peace and appointing and confirming Marshal as Chief Justice so
they could steal the Constitution.
Posted by: Vic We Have No Party
I'll check that out, thanks, Vic.
Actually (see previous post) he destroyed with
that underhanded scheme to challenge the non-appointment of a justice of
the peace and appointing and confirming Marshal as Chief Justice so
they could steal the Constitution.
Posted by: Vic We Have No Party
I'll check that out, thanks, Vic.
Posted by: Moderate Salami at March 19, 2015 10:31 AM (/Ho8c)
162
"I'm dissappointed with the GOP for sure. But I have reasons to be somewhat optimistic. But it will take more time and more elections to get to where we need to be."
I think I just came in my pants a little bit.
I think I just came in my pants a little bit.
Posted by: Mitch McConnell at March 19, 2015 10:32 AM (lG2E3)
163
Have I ever told you about the Pander Bear Party?
Posted by: Turd Ferguson at March 19, 2015 10:32 AM (VAsIq)
164
IfGermany was still Germany, Poland and the Ukraine would be getting leopard tanks and other advanced weaponry.
Energy policy is an excellent point. Between the US lifting the oil export ban, the keystone pipeline and the gearing up of LNG exports, we could change the game. Israel is starting to develop reserves.
Current EU energy policy is all wishful thinking.
Energy policy is an excellent point. Between the US lifting the oil export ban, the keystone pipeline and the gearing up of LNG exports, we could change the game. Israel is starting to develop reserves.
Current EU energy policy is all wishful thinking.
Posted by: Blue Hen at March 19, 2015 10:32 AM (Spluw)
165
Last night after reading Ace's post about the GOP I got the feeling I was sandwiched between DrewM and Ace on a long bus ride.
Posted by: Misanthropic Humanitarian at March 19, 2015 10:26 AM (vPh3W)
Neither of whom had bathed in a month and had both been on a two-week-long Taco Bell bender.
Posted by: Misanthropic Humanitarian at March 19, 2015 10:26 AM (vPh3W)
Neither of whom had bathed in a month and had both been on a two-week-long Taco Bell bender.
Posted by: Insomniac at March 19, 2015 10:33 AM (2Ojst)
166
More and more I'm thinking of pulling a Fred Reed and moving to Mexico.
I figure it would be a good deal since all the Mexicans will be here.
I figure it would be a good deal since all the Mexicans will be here.
Posted by: Dack Thrombosis at March 19, 2015 10:33 AM (oFCZn)
167
I favor the triad. But the Minuteman is almost Vic old.
Posted by: Circa (Insert Year Here) at March 19, 2015 10:28 AM (659DL)
I don't disagree. I understand 2/3 of the ICBM missiles have expired batteries in their gyros and wouldn't hit shit if they would even fire.
The B-52? Still ticking, but seriously. They had to take one out of moth balls to repair one that got damaged in a wreck.
Posted by: Circa (Insert Year Here) at March 19, 2015 10:28 AM (659DL)
I don't disagree. I understand 2/3 of the ICBM missiles have expired batteries in their gyros and wouldn't hit shit if they would even fire.
The B-52? Still ticking, but seriously. They had to take one out of moth balls to repair one that got damaged in a wreck.
Posted by: Nip Sip at March 19, 2015 10:33 AM (0FSuD)
168
It's a huge mystery why they all went there. Huge.
In unrelated news, apparently the power plant in that county opened a new discharge point.
Posted by: alexthechick - Jazz Hands Gojira
Must be the global warmening, then.
In unrelated news, apparently the power plant in that county opened a new discharge point.
Posted by: alexthechick - Jazz Hands Gojira
Must be the global warmening, then.
Posted by: Moderate Salami at March 19, 2015 10:33 AM (/Ho8c)
169
Democrats/Republicans. Two sides of the same coin.
We're boned.
Posted by: Marmo at March 19, 2015 10:24 AM (QW+AD)
It's "terminally boned" and the bipartisan Party-In-Government is not just the same coin, the PIG is the same side of said coin.
We're boned.
Posted by: Marmo at March 19, 2015 10:24 AM (QW+AD)
It's "terminally boned" and the bipartisan Party-In-Government is not just the same coin, the PIG is the same side of said coin.
Posted by: steveegg at March 19, 2015 10:33 AM (cL79m)
170
Current EU energy policy is all wishful thinking.
Ronaldus Magnus warned them about being dependent on Russian oil and gas.
They chose poorly.
Ronaldus Magnus warned them about being dependent on Russian oil and gas.
They chose poorly.
Posted by: Circa (Insert Year Here) at March 19, 2015 10:34 AM (659DL)
171
VIA, our local Germans had a good relationship with our base. The year before I got there, the Battalion had lent itself to the town to clear broken trees after a huge snowstorm. Weeks of details, hauling trees out of roads. So I got the afterglow when I arrived. I'm still in contact with locals via social media, and most wish we had never left. We were apparently more popular than the previous occupants, the Nazis. If you do an image search for "Strassburg Kaserne", one of the pics you'll see is a frieze at the front gate. Filled with Nazi imagery, but with the swastikas chipped out of the stone.
Posted by: Lincolntf at March 19, 2015 10:34 AM (2cS/G)
Posted by: Ricardo Kill at March 19, 2015 10:34 AM (LA7Cm)
173
Holy Shit ... Circa is a genius !!!
Inspired by his national strategy comment, I did a little sleuthing, and actually found The US National Defense Strategy !!! It's surprisingly brief ...
Wherever shit goes down ... be there, until it polls badly (Case Hit It and Quit It). Nation Build and Relieve Disasters on a Global Scale using the taxpayer dime (Plan Uncle Sugar Clause). Project image of thriving superpower (Operation Chest Thump). Provide test bed for Social Engineering projects (Make Your Buddy Smile Maneouver).
Inspired by his national strategy comment, I did a little sleuthing, and actually found The US National Defense Strategy !!! It's surprisingly brief ...
Wherever shit goes down ... be there, until it polls badly (Case Hit It and Quit It). Nation Build and Relieve Disasters on a Global Scale using the taxpayer dime (Plan Uncle Sugar Clause). Project image of thriving superpower (Operation Chest Thump). Provide test bed for Social Engineering projects (Make Your Buddy Smile Maneouver).
Posted by: ScoggDog at March 19, 2015 10:34 AM (ZUUI1)
174
Current EU energy policy is all wishful thinking.
Posted by: Blue Hen at March 19, 2015 10:32 AM (Spluw)
No no, weee have te Nuclear reactors, that are almost burned out!
Posted by: Blue Hen at March 19, 2015 10:32 AM (Spluw)
No no, weee have te Nuclear reactors, that are almost burned out!
Posted by: La Frogs at March 19, 2015 10:34 AM (0FSuD)
175
Posted by: Vic We Have No Party at March 19, 2015 10:30 AM (wlDny)
Well, absolutely.
But I get annoyed when the same person says "WE NEED TO CUT SPENDING, WE'RE BORROWING SO MUCH MONEY!" and "lets increase military spending. If we just spend a couple hundred billion more a year on jets, we can finally fix all of these world problems."
I'm willing to cut military obligations (if not necessarily spending, because we do need to invest in a strong, robust, national security) if that's what it takes. I'm sure there is a metric fuckton of waste to be found and eliminated in the DoD as well.
Well, absolutely.
But I get annoyed when the same person says "WE NEED TO CUT SPENDING, WE'RE BORROWING SO MUCH MONEY!" and "lets increase military spending. If we just spend a couple hundred billion more a year on jets, we can finally fix all of these world problems."
I'm willing to cut military obligations (if not necessarily spending, because we do need to invest in a strong, robust, national security) if that's what it takes. I'm sure there is a metric fuckton of waste to be found and eliminated in the DoD as well.
Posted by: mynewhandle at March 19, 2015 10:35 AM (AkOaV)
176
I don't disagree. I understand 2/3 of the ICBM missiles have expired batteries in their gyros and wouldn't hit shit if they would even fire.
When we're passing around ONE WARHEAD WRENCH, it's time to start over.
When we're passing around ONE WARHEAD WRENCH, it's time to start over.
Posted by: Circa (Insert Year Here) at March 19, 2015 10:35 AM (659DL)
177
On the cost of destroyers. One question:How much should an advanced destroyer cost? Do we have comparative figures from other countries with ships of comparable cost? I always thought warships were expensive. Expensive to build, expensive to crew, expensive to maintain. Heck the cost in ye olden days was one of the reasons congress didn't want a big navy on the late 1790s and early 1800s.
Posted by: lurkingestlurker - Giant Plush Porcupine at March 19, 2015 10:36 AM (yS0Bu)
178
In unrelated news, apparently the power plant in that county opened a new discharge point.
Striped bass sometimes winter over in the discharge plume of a nuclear power plant in Plymouth MA. I used to fish there.
Now because nuke plant and terrorism you're not allowed anywhere near it. Gorram terrorists.
In unrelated news, apparently the power plant in that county opened a new discharge point.
Striped bass sometimes winter over in the discharge plume of a nuclear power plant in Plymouth MA. I used to fish there.
Now because nuke plant and terrorism you're not allowed anywhere near it. Gorram terrorists.
Posted by: Bandersnatch at March 19, 2015 10:36 AM (JtwS4)
179
Wherever shit goes down ... be there, until it polls badly (Case Hit It and Quit It). Nation Build and Relieve Disasters on a Global Scale using the taxpayer dime (Plan Uncle Sugar Clause). Project image of thriving superpower (Operation Chest Thump). Provide test bed for Social Engineering projects (Make Your Buddy Smile Maneouver).
You left out...wait for it...
Climate Change.
You left out...wait for it...
Climate Change.
Posted by: Circa (Insert Year Here) at March 19, 2015 10:37 AM (659DL)
180
120 Same with Korea and Japan. They hate us -- good,
fuck 'em. Good luck defending yourselves, I no longer have any shits
left to give, and am sick of paying out the ass to support you and
provide security. Both are rich countries, pay for your own defense.
US troops should be used to defend the US, not to defend everyone else on my (well, really, my grandkids) dime.
Posted by: mynewhandle at March 19, 2015 10:21 AM (AkOaV)
There are always some loudmouths in those countries but in general they do not hate us. I have first and knowledge of the Japanese and Philippians. Most of them actually like us.
fuck 'em. Good luck defending yourselves, I no longer have any shits
left to give, and am sick of paying out the ass to support you and
provide security. Both are rich countries, pay for your own defense.
US troops should be used to defend the US, not to defend everyone else on my (well, really, my grandkids) dime.
Posted by: mynewhandle at March 19, 2015 10:21 AM (AkOaV)
There are always some loudmouths in those countries but in general they do not hate us. I have first and knowledge of the Japanese and Philippians. Most of them actually like us.
Posted by: Vic We Have No Party at March 19, 2015 10:37 AM (wlDny)
181
Posted by: Lincolntf at March 19, 2015 10:34 AM (2cS/G)
I'm sure the locals (near the base) like the US military guys. Us Americans are typically pretty nice people, but more importantly, our soldiers spend money and support the local economy.
But supporting Hans and his sandwich shop should not be at all a consideration in shutting down bases.
I'm sure the locals (near the base) like the US military guys. Us Americans are typically pretty nice people, but more importantly, our soldiers spend money and support the local economy.
But supporting Hans and his sandwich shop should not be at all a consideration in shutting down bases.
Posted by: mynewhandle at March 19, 2015 10:38 AM (AkOaV)
182
Drew, c'mon. This is boring stuff. We need to be talking about ISIS and/or Cankles' emails, like, 24-7.
I don't think anybody's covered those stories enough.
I don't think anybody's covered those stories enough.
Posted by: Waltzing Matilda at March 19, 2015 10:38 AM (indTK)
183
I understand the sentiment, but...we expect them to be f*cksticks, and act against our individual and national interests. It stings a hell of a lot more when the people who claim to represent you enable it or directly participate in it.
Posted by: Insomniac at March 19, 2015 10:20 AM (2Ojst)
=============================
Yes, except the sting has long since become a screed around here. And forgetting that Democrats are 1000x worse is pretty ridiculous.
Drew has long since made his point and now its just a catalogue of sins.
The real problem is the GOP in Congress thinks they can win by not making any noise. Don't scare off the voters by doing substantive things.
If Drew wants to have that argument, that would be fine. Make it. I'd love to see Prince Reibus come on here and debate the point.
But these tangential and tiresome posts are leading nowhere.
Posted by: Insomniac at March 19, 2015 10:20 AM (2Ojst)
=============================
Yes, except the sting has long since become a screed around here. And forgetting that Democrats are 1000x worse is pretty ridiculous.
Drew has long since made his point and now its just a catalogue of sins.
The real problem is the GOP in Congress thinks they can win by not making any noise. Don't scare off the voters by doing substantive things.
If Drew wants to have that argument, that would be fine. Make it. I'd love to see Prince Reibus come on here and debate the point.
But these tangential and tiresome posts are leading nowhere.
Posted by: MTF, Vote For The One GOP Insiders Hate! at March 19, 2015 10:38 AM (FCsIb)
184
This is outside the box thinking and may work. Our navy reduced to driving around Zodiacs with guns.
http://tinyurl.com/qbky29h
This is outside the box thinking and may work. Our navy reduced to driving around Zodiacs with guns.
http://tinyurl.com/qbky29h
Posted by: Nip Sip at March 19, 2015 10:38 AM (0FSuD)
185
There are always some loudmouths in those countries but in general they do not hate us. I have first and knowledge of the Japanese and Philippians. Most of them actually like us.
Posted by: Vic We Have No Party at March 19, 2015 10:37 AM (wlDny)
Agreed, It's the eurotrash that hate us.
Posted by: Vic We Have No Party at March 19, 2015 10:37 AM (wlDny)
Agreed, It's the eurotrash that hate us.
Posted by: Oldsailors Poet at March 19, 2015 10:38 AM (KbNXw)
186
The conservative side of the GOP is unfortunately in junior positions. But they are the future of the party and will one day be in the senior positions.
Posted by: SH at March 19, 2015 10:29 AM (gmeXX)
---
Yeah, I cant wait to put that young, dynamic conservative Marco Rubio into the Oval Office. Then all these betrayals and lies will come to an e... oh, nevermind...
Posted by: SH at March 19, 2015 10:29 AM (gmeXX)
---
Yeah, I cant wait to put that young, dynamic conservative Marco Rubio into the Oval Office. Then all these betrayals and lies will come to an e... oh, nevermind...
Posted by: Elize Nayden at March 19, 2015 10:38 AM (dpYKC)
187
Do we have comparative figures from other countries with ships of comparable cost?
Posted by: lurkingestlurker
See: #115
Posted by: lurkingestlurker
See: #115
Posted by: Laurie David's Cervix at March 19, 2015 10:38 AM (kdS6q)
188
Willow away Morons for I have Cut and Paste.
I still want to know how calculations of the timing of the solar storm that hit this week were off so badly.
Ask Vic how bad weather forecasting was when observational data came from a couple of dozen radio reports across the nation vs. satellites?
Or someone botched a calculation or the news is crap.
Or some unobserved or unknown interaction between 2 hurtling giant masses of plasma.
Either way, sounds like a recipe for lots of fraud -- so I'm sure the dems will push for it.
Perhaps both D and R could benefit from an accurate count of #GoFuckYourself
Mmmm, paste
I still want to know how calculations of the timing of the solar storm that hit this week were off so badly.
Ask Vic how bad weather forecasting was when observational data came from a couple of dozen radio reports across the nation vs. satellites?
Or someone botched a calculation or the news is crap.
Or some unobserved or unknown interaction between 2 hurtling giant masses of plasma.
Either way, sounds like a recipe for lots of fraud -- so I'm sure the dems will push for it.
Perhaps both D and R could benefit from an accurate count of #GoFuckYourself
Mmmm, paste
Posted by: DaveA at March 19, 2015 10:39 AM (DL2i+)
189
Align the Federal/Civil Service pay scale with the Military pay scale. Bureaucrats start at E-1 through E-4 pay, depending on qualifications. Cut the budget and the bloat in one fell swoop.
Posted by: Lincolntf at March 19, 2015 10:39 AM (2cS/G)
Posted by: John Boner in Assless Chaps at March 19, 2015 10:40 AM (lG2E3)
191
I think many Japanese actually like the US. I could be wrong.
Now South Korea? I can remember a lot of anti-American sentiment years ago because they saw the US propping up the military dictatorships that used to run South Korea.
Now South Korea? I can remember a lot of anti-American sentiment years ago because they saw the US propping up the military dictatorships that used to run South Korea.
Posted by: Dack Thrombosis at March 19, 2015 10:40 AM (oFCZn)
192
Do we have comparative figures from other countries with ships of comparable cost?
Also note that the U.S. has one and half companies that build ships these days.
Also note that the U.S. has one and half companies that build ships these days.
Posted by: Circa (Insert Year Here) at March 19, 2015 10:40 AM (659DL)
193
But these tangential and tiresome posts are leading nowhere.
-----
Optimism is frowned upon around here.
Airing of grievances is much more fun.
Every day a Festivus.
-----
Optimism is frowned upon around here.
Airing of grievances is much more fun.
Every day a Festivus.
Posted by: SH at March 19, 2015 10:40 AM (gmeXX)
194
I'm hoping for boobehs in the art thread.
Posted by: Bandersnatch at March 19, 2015 10:40 AM (JtwS4)
195
Lincolntf
Without a doubt, being stationed overseas is an experience without equal. And in Gaeta, those who wanted us to remain far outnumbered the ones who wished us gone.
On 9-11, as I was walking out our front door with my seabag, to emergency sortie for an unknown period, the local Italians began to arrive at each of our homes. They knew we were leaving, and wanted us to know that our families were under the protection of their families.
And in a small Italian town where everyone knows everyone, that is not a small thing.
Without a doubt, being stationed overseas is an experience without equal. And in Gaeta, those who wanted us to remain far outnumbered the ones who wished us gone.
On 9-11, as I was walking out our front door with my seabag, to emergency sortie for an unknown period, the local Italians began to arrive at each of our homes. They knew we were leaving, and wanted us to know that our families were under the protection of their families.
And in a small Italian town where everyone knows everyone, that is not a small thing.
Posted by: Village Idiot's Apprentice at March 19, 2015 10:40 AM (PJOJz)
196
Posted by: Vic We Have No Party at March 19, 2015 10:37 AM (wlDny)
Yeah, I didn't mean they hate us like the muslims hate the jews, and I'm sure the locals appreciate the money, but these countries as a whole are pretty agnostic or against the US, when they should be s'ing our d's for keeping them alive.
Yeah, I didn't mean they hate us like the muslims hate the jews, and I'm sure the locals appreciate the money, but these countries as a whole are pretty agnostic or against the US, when they should be s'ing our d's for keeping them alive.
Posted by: mynewhandle at March 19, 2015 10:40 AM (AkOaV)
197
Align the Federal/Civil Service pay scale with the Military pay scale. Bureaucrats start at E-1 through E-4 pay, depending on qualifications. Cut the budget and the bloat in one fell swoop.
Posted by: Lincolntf at March 19, 2015 10:39 AM (2cS/G)
Perfect, right after we cut every job in D.C. that the states can do themselves.
Posted by: Lincolntf at March 19, 2015 10:39 AM (2cS/G)
Perfect, right after we cut every job in D.C. that the states can do themselves.
Posted by: Oldsailors Poet at March 19, 2015 10:40 AM (KbNXw)
198
Agreed, It's the eurotrash that hate us.
Posted by: Oldsailors Poet at March 19, 2015 10:38 AM (KbNXw)
It's the liberals everywhere that hate us. The rest of the population is damn glad we are picking up the slack.
A commie is a commie in any country and we are their enemy.
Posted by: Oldsailors Poet at March 19, 2015 10:38 AM (KbNXw)
It's the liberals everywhere that hate us. The rest of the population is damn glad we are picking up the slack.
A commie is a commie in any country and we are their enemy.
Posted by: Nip Sip at March 19, 2015 10:42 AM (0FSuD)
199
Posted by: Dack Thrombosis at March 19, 2015 10:40 AM (oFCZn)
The Japanese get their panties in a wad over our naval bases.
I think they like us more now that China is threatening their islands, but historically they've protested the bases.
Now that it looks like they may need our help against China, they're being more friendly.
The Japanese get their panties in a wad over our naval bases.
I think they like us more now that China is threatening their islands, but historically they've protested the bases.
Now that it looks like they may need our help against China, they're being more friendly.
Posted by: mynewhandle at March 19, 2015 10:42 AM (AkOaV)
200
Don't concern yourselves with these budget matters, proles -- Boner can surely round up enough Dem votes to sail this shit sandwich thru as long as he slips Pelosi anther $100 billion or two.
Posted by: GnuBreed at March 19, 2015 10:42 AM (Ly3fx)
201
161
I'll check that out, thanks, Vic.
Posted by: Moderate Salami at March 19, 2015 10:31 AM (/Ho8c)
There is a lot of shit that you never hear about with that entire process. The liberal schools and the MFM have kept it hidden but there are books out there that talk about it.
I'll check that out, thanks, Vic.
Posted by: Moderate Salami at March 19, 2015 10:31 AM (/Ho8c)
There is a lot of shit that you never hear about with that entire process. The liberal schools and the MFM have kept it hidden but there are books out there that talk about it.
Posted by: Vic We Have No Party at March 19, 2015 10:42 AM (wlDny)
202
We've already closed 90% of our German bases, because that was the way to balance the budget. Has it? Will closing the remaining 10%? No and No. But we have lost strategic and tactical advantages that took generations to establish. What's the price tag on the Fulda Gap these days?
Posted by: Lincolntf at March 19, 2015 10:43 AM (2cS/G)
203
On the cost of destroyers. One question:How much should an advanced destroyer cost? Do we have comparative figures from other countries with ships of comparable cost? I always thought warships were expensive. Expensive to build, expensive to crew, expensive to maintain. Heck the cost in ye olden days was one of the reasons congress didn't want a big navy on the late 1790s and early 1800s.
Posted by: lurkingestlurker - Giant Plush Porcupine at March 19, 2015 10:36 AM (yS0Bu)
If we weren't busy funding the Mississippi PRL Trent Cave-A-Lott Memorial Slush Fund (with its corporatist laundering costs) with the Burke contract, it would be much cheaper.
Posted by: lurkingestlurker - Giant Plush Porcupine at March 19, 2015 10:36 AM (yS0Bu)
If we weren't busy funding the Mississippi PRL Trent Cave-A-Lott Memorial Slush Fund (with its corporatist laundering costs) with the Burke contract, it would be much cheaper.
Posted by: steveegg at March 19, 2015 10:43 AM (cL79m)
204
>>>I don't disagree. I understand 2/3 of the ICBM missiles have expired batteries in their gyros and wouldn't hit shit if they would even fire.
The B-52? Still ticking, but seriously. They had to take one out of moth balls to repair one that got damaged in a wreck.
.
.
.
.We don't need B-52's or ICBM's to maintain a Nuclear Deterrent or strike capability. They are legacy systems that are only hanging around because Senior DOD and their Civilian counterparts want to keep them and they keep the gravy train going for Contractors and their friends. Not saying they are useless, just saying they are not required and very expensive to maintain.
All we really need now is some SSN's or SSGN's and a handful of Nuke Cruise missiles. Heck even surface ships can fire them. And their range is well over 1,000 NM now, extremely few worthwhile places they cant hit.
The B-52? Still ticking, but seriously. They had to take one out of moth balls to repair one that got damaged in a wreck.
.
.
.
.We don't need B-52's or ICBM's to maintain a Nuclear Deterrent or strike capability. They are legacy systems that are only hanging around because Senior DOD and their Civilian counterparts want to keep them and they keep the gravy train going for Contractors and their friends. Not saying they are useless, just saying they are not required and very expensive to maintain.
All we really need now is some SSN's or SSGN's and a handful of Nuke Cruise missiles. Heck even surface ships can fire them. And their range is well over 1,000 NM now, extremely few worthwhile places they cant hit.
Posted by: The Great White Scotsman at March 19, 2015 10:43 AM (4oSLk)
205
Come on ... Not one damned laugh at Case Hit It and Quit It ?
Fine ... I'll do some Work at Work shit for a while.
Fine ... I'll do some Work at Work shit for a while.
Posted by: ScoggDog at March 19, 2015 10:43 AM (ZUUI1)
206
I'm hoping for boobehs in the art thread.
Posted by: Bandersnatch at March 19, 2015 10:40 AM (JtwS4)
http://bit.ly/1xiW2qc
Posted by: Bandersnatch at March 19, 2015 10:40 AM (JtwS4)
http://bit.ly/1xiW2qc
Posted by: alexthechick - Jazz Hands Gojira at March 19, 2015 10:44 AM (mf5HN)
207
All we really need now is some SSN's or SSGN's and a handful of Nuke Cruise missiles. Heck even surface ships can fire them. And their range is well over 1,000 NM now, extremely few worthwhile places they cant hit.
Posted by: The Great White Scotsman at March 19, 2015 10:43 AM (4oSLk)
Assuming those Tomahawks don't get intercepted, that is.
One more thing - the Tomahawk production line closes next year.
Posted by: The Great White Scotsman at March 19, 2015 10:43 AM (4oSLk)
Assuming those Tomahawks don't get intercepted, that is.
One more thing - the Tomahawk production line closes next year.
Posted by: steveegg at March 19, 2015 10:45 AM (cL79m)
208
>>>>The Japanese get their panties in a wad over our naval bases.
I think they like us more now that China is threatening their islands, but historically they've protested the bases.
Now that it looks like they may need our help against China, they're being more friendly.
.
.
.But their protests were extremely peaceful. When we were stationed in Yokosuka and they protested in front of the base, they would move aside and let you walk into the gate without a problem. Weird and unlike anyplace else we were ever sent that had base protests.
I think they like us more now that China is threatening their islands, but historically they've protested the bases.
Now that it looks like they may need our help against China, they're being more friendly.
.
.
.But their protests were extremely peaceful. When we were stationed in Yokosuka and they protested in front of the base, they would move aside and let you walk into the gate without a problem. Weird and unlike anyplace else we were ever sent that had base protests.
Posted by: The Great White Scotsman at March 19, 2015 10:45 AM (4oSLk)
209
Posted by: Oldsailors Poet at March 19, 2015 10:38 AM (KbNXw)
hate was probably the wrong word for me to use, but we are not appreciated world wide. We are called imperialists and mocked as "the world policemen" and generally held in disdain as stupid cowboys throughout much of the world -- and that's just with our allies.
And yet, money is coming out of my paycheck every week to pay for US troops to be stationed all over the world.
As in, I'm paying for the troops sitting between North and South Korea right now, ensuring that S Korea doesn't get nuked off the map. That's food coming off my table every day.
And what do i get in return?
hate was probably the wrong word for me to use, but we are not appreciated world wide. We are called imperialists and mocked as "the world policemen" and generally held in disdain as stupid cowboys throughout much of the world -- and that's just with our allies.
And yet, money is coming out of my paycheck every week to pay for US troops to be stationed all over the world.
As in, I'm paying for the troops sitting between North and South Korea right now, ensuring that S Korea doesn't get nuked off the map. That's food coming off my table every day.
And what do i get in return?
Posted by: mynewhandle at March 19, 2015 10:46 AM (AkOaV)
210
@204
Agreed, BUT what we really need are space weapons. The Chinese already have a killer satellite they have tested.
Star Wars is real now. I am hoping that secret small space shuttle the AF is flying meets this bill.
Agreed, BUT what we really need are space weapons. The Chinese already have a killer satellite they have tested.
Star Wars is real now. I am hoping that secret small space shuttle the AF is flying meets this bill.
Posted by: Nip Sip at March 19, 2015 10:46 AM (0FSuD)
211
A GOP that can't budget because of a vocal conservative faction in the party is better than a GOP that can budget because there is no vocal conservative faction.
Posted by: SH at March 19, 2015 10:46 AM (gmeXX)
Posted by: LoneStarHeeb at March 19, 2015 10:46 AM (BZAd3)
213
Posted by: The Great White Scotsman at March 19, 2015 10:45 AM (4oSLk)
I didn't say Japanese people weren't weird.
You ever see any of their porn? Yikes!
I didn't say Japanese people weren't weird.
You ever see any of their porn? Yikes!
Posted by: mynewhandle at March 19, 2015 10:46 AM (AkOaV)
214
The Neocons remind me of the teachers' union that always makes the case that more education spending=smarter kids.
Screw the McCain/Kristol wing that wants American boots in every conflict
The sequester cuts were one of the few victories conservatives had, keep them.
We still have a larger military budget than the next 10 or so nations COMBINED.
We are not going to be invaded and taken over as a result of our current budget for military spending.
Our nation was not founded on the idea we were some "world police".
Why do conservatives have such a blind spot for big government when it comes to the military?
Screw the McCain/Kristol wing that wants American boots in every conflict
The sequester cuts were one of the few victories conservatives had, keep them.
We still have a larger military budget than the next 10 or so nations COMBINED.
We are not going to be invaded and taken over as a result of our current budget for military spending.
Our nation was not founded on the idea we were some "world police".
Why do conservatives have such a blind spot for big government when it comes to the military?
Posted by: Kal at March 19, 2015 10:47 AM (uK1H/)
215
I am hoping that secret small space shuttle the AF is flying meets this bill.
Those are just to communicate with the aliens and track Sasquatches.
Those are just to communicate with the aliens and track Sasquatches.
Posted by: Circa (Insert Year Here) at March 19, 2015 10:47 AM (659DL)
216
188 Posted by: DaveA at March 19, 2015 10:39 AM (DL2i+)
From what I have seen lately the weather forecasts are not any more accurate now than they were in the 50s and 60s.
It appears the politics of AGW are driving weather forecasts now.
From what I have seen lately the weather forecasts are not any more accurate now than they were in the 50s and 60s.
It appears the politics of AGW are driving weather forecasts now.
Posted by: Vic We Have No Party at March 19, 2015 10:48 AM (wlDny)
217
The Federal Empire drains us like a vampire.
We work and earn money and it automatically takes it from us.
Until that process stops we are subjects of the Empire.
The dumping of the GOP is part of the process of realizing we don't live in a republic.
We live in an Empire pretending to be a republic.
We work and earn money and it automatically takes it from us.
Until that process stops we are subjects of the Empire.
The dumping of the GOP is part of the process of realizing we don't live in a republic.
We live in an Empire pretending to be a republic.
Posted by: eman at March 19, 2015 10:48 AM (MQEz6)
218
I'd also like to see a Venn diagram of the budget hawks referenced in Drew's post with those who voted for the 20-week abortion ban.
Posted by: SH at March 19, 2015 10:48 AM (gmeXX)
219
On the bright side, 4 years ago there wouldn't have been a schism because there were not enough actually conservative congressmen to cause one... so that at least is progress. Even if there are not enough (YET!) to positively do the conservative thing, there are enough now to to negatively stop the RINOS from doing the wrong thing(sometimes). I don't mean negatively in a bad way here either.
Posted by: redbanzai at March 19, 2015 10:48 AM (OrI3J)
220
As in, I'm paying for the troops sitting between North and South Korea right now, ensuring that S Korea doesn't get nuked off the map. That's food coming off my table every day.
And what do i get in return?
Posted by: mynewhandle at March 19, 2015 10:46 AM (AkOaV)
Samsung phones and TVs?
And what do i get in return?
Posted by: mynewhandle at March 19, 2015 10:46 AM (AkOaV)
Samsung phones and TVs?
Posted by: steveegg at March 19, 2015 10:48 AM (cL79m)
221
Screw the McCain/Kristol wing that wants American boots in every conflict
Technically, they just want to bomb every country with a vowel on a rotating basis.
Technically, they just want to bomb every country with a vowel on a rotating basis.
Posted by: Circa (Insert Year Here) at March 19, 2015 10:48 AM (659DL)
Posted by: Moderate Salami at March 19, 2015 10:49 AM (/Ho8c)
223
Posted by: redbanzai at March 19, 2015 10:48 AM (OrI3J)
----
Be careful red - your post may be a little too optimistic for the horde today.
Festivus continues.
----
Be careful red - your post may be a little too optimistic for the horde today.
Festivus continues.
Posted by: SH at March 19, 2015 10:49 AM (gmeXX)
224
@202
Yeah, "amateurs study tactics. Professonials study logistics" Lines of supply and retreat are necessary. One part of the overall logistic picture is our overseas bases. You can have the strongest military force in the world, that won't mean anything if you cannot project it and keep it supplied and fed in the field.
Yeah, "amateurs study tactics. Professonials study logistics" Lines of supply and retreat are necessary. One part of the overall logistic picture is our overseas bases. You can have the strongest military force in the world, that won't mean anything if you cannot project it and keep it supplied and fed in the field.
Posted by: lurkingestlurker at March 19, 2015 10:50 AM (k8xvx)
225
Those are just to communicate with the aliens and track Sasquatches.
Posted by: Circa (Insert Year Here) at March 19, 2015 10:47 AM (659DL)
Track Sasquatch? I thought she lived in the WH with her daughter Moochie.
Posted by: Circa (Insert Year Here) at March 19, 2015 10:47 AM (659DL)
Track Sasquatch? I thought she lived in the WH with her daughter Moochie.
Posted by: Nip Sip at March 19, 2015 10:50 AM (0FSuD)
226
I'm very interested in these "Assless Chaps" of which you speak. As a fashion trend.
Posted by: Emperor Al-Barack the Magnificent at March 19, 2015 10:50 AM (FCsIb)
227
I know I'm supposed to be gloomy on this thread, so here goes:
My son (3 years old) some packaging that was red and white striped. He said, "Daddy, it's the American flag! Red and white stripes, and blue and stars!"
My son (3 years old) some packaging that was red and white striped. He said, "Daddy, it's the American flag! Red and white stripes, and blue and stars!"
Posted by: Turd Ferguson at March 19, 2015 10:51 AM (VAsIq)
228
"What I dream is that for one election, just one, every black person in America vote Republican," he [Stephen A. Smith] said. "Because from what I've read, and I'm open to correction, but from what I've read, Barry Goldwater is going against Lyndon B. Johnson. He's your Republican candidate. He is completely against the Civil Rights Movement. Lyndon B. Johnson was in favor of it. What happens is, he wins office, Barry Goldwater loses office, but there was a senate, a Republican senate, that pushed the votes to the president's desk. It was the Democrats who were against Civil Rights legislation. So because President Lyndon B. Johnson was a Democrat, black America assumed the Democrats were for it."
He also added, "Black folks in America are telling one party, 'We don't give a damn about you.' They're telling the other party 'You've got our vote.' Therefore, you have labeled yourself 'disenfranchised' because one party knows they've got you under their thumb. The other party knows they'll never get you and nobody comes to address your interest."
He also added, "Black folks in America are telling one party, 'We don't give a damn about you.' They're telling the other party 'You've got our vote.' Therefore, you have labeled yourself 'disenfranchised' because one party knows they've got you under their thumb. The other party knows they'll never get you and nobody comes to address your interest."
Posted by: Islamic Rage Boy at March 19, 2015 10:51 AM (e8kgV)
229
As in, I'm paying for the troops sitting between North and South Korea right now, ensuring that S Korea doesn't get nuked off the map. That's food coming off my table every day.
------
I've often wondered why China doesn't support the US against North Korea. Isn't it in China's interest to eliminate NK as a threat to give the US a reason to leave the area?
------
I've often wondered why China doesn't support the US against North Korea. Isn't it in China's interest to eliminate NK as a threat to give the US a reason to leave the area?
Posted by: SH at March 19, 2015 10:51 AM (gmeXX)
230
Posted by: Vic We Have No Party at March 19, 2015 10:48 AM (wlDny)
Yeah. It was only a couple of months ago that NYC was shut down (including the entire subway system, which I can't remember ever happening before) because of an imminent historical snow storm... ended up being a very "eh" storm -- maybe 5 or 6 inches.
Oh, and after all of the fuck ups this winter, my local TV station has started talking about the "European model" which I got excited about until I realized they weren't talking about a busty Russian, but just another forecasting model so that they could hedge their bets. "Our models say 3 inches, the European Model says 8 inches." That way it's harder for them to be wrong.
Yeah. It was only a couple of months ago that NYC was shut down (including the entire subway system, which I can't remember ever happening before) because of an imminent historical snow storm... ended up being a very "eh" storm -- maybe 5 or 6 inches.
Oh, and after all of the fuck ups this winter, my local TV station has started talking about the "European model" which I got excited about until I realized they weren't talking about a busty Russian, but just another forecasting model so that they could hedge their bets. "Our models say 3 inches, the European Model says 8 inches." That way it's harder for them to be wrong.
Posted by: mynewhandle at March 19, 2015 10:51 AM (AkOaV)
231
You can have the strongest military force in the world, that won't mean anything if you cannot project it and keep it supplied and fed in the field.
Ding. Effing. Ding.
We have not faced an area denial effort since World War II. With the navy we have now, we would be in grave trouble against China or even in a protracted Persian Gulf scenario against a state actor.
Ding. Effing. Ding.
We have not faced an area denial effort since World War II. With the navy we have now, we would be in grave trouble against China or even in a protracted Persian Gulf scenario against a state actor.
Posted by: Circa (Insert Year Here) at March 19, 2015 10:52 AM (659DL)
232
226
I'm very interested in these "Assless Chaps" of which you speak. As a fashion trend.
Posted by: Emperor Al-Barack the Magnificent at March 19, 2015 10:50 AM (FCsIb)
I got you some for Easter. Oh, darn messed up the surprise.
I'm very interested in these "Assless Chaps" of which you speak. As a fashion trend.
Posted by: Emperor Al-Barack the Magnificent at March 19, 2015 10:50 AM (FCsIb)
I got you some for Easter. Oh, darn messed up the surprise.
Posted by: Reggie, the butt fucker at March 19, 2015 10:52 AM (0FSuD)
233
Conservatives are the black bloc of the Republican Party.
Posted by: Cloyd Freud, Unemployed at March 19, 2015 10:52 AM (lG2E3)
234
Posted by: SH at March 19, 2015 10:51 AM (gmeXX)
...Well, maybe in the same way it's in Egypts best interest to solve the Palestinian issue.
So... kind of?
...Well, maybe in the same way it's in Egypts best interest to solve the Palestinian issue.
So... kind of?
Posted by: mynewhandle at March 19, 2015 10:52 AM (AkOaV)
235
Posted by: alexthechick - Jazz Hands Gojira at March 19, 2015 10:44 AM (mf5HN)
Caringest. Givingest.
Posted by: alexthechick - Jazz Hands Gojira at March 19, 2015 10:44 AM (mf5HN)
Caringest. Givingest.
Posted by: Bandersnatch at March 19, 2015 10:52 AM (JtwS4)
236
The GOP also promised not to do that thing in your mouth.
Posted by: Roy at March 19, 2015 10:52 AM (VndSC)
237
I thought this was a conservative Military blog. What's all this talk about politics?
Posted by: Mr. Natural at March 19, 2015 10:53 AM (G98PU)
238
I mean something like the F-35 program was revealed to have a pricetag of a TRILLION dollars. For a single flippin' fighter jet.
That's more than the total cost (so far) of ObamaCare, yet you don't hear squat about it from our side.
I can understand being a super military hawk during the Cold War, but now our enemy is some shithead in a dirt cave with an Ak-47 and a machete. We don't need more nuclear subs and aircraft carriers for that sort of conflict.
That's more than the total cost (so far) of ObamaCare, yet you don't hear squat about it from our side.
I can understand being a super military hawk during the Cold War, but now our enemy is some shithead in a dirt cave with an Ak-47 and a machete. We don't need more nuclear subs and aircraft carriers for that sort of conflict.
Posted by: Kal at March 19, 2015 10:53 AM (uK1H/)
239
I've often wondered why China doesn't support the US against North Korea. Isn't it in China's interest to eliminate NK as a threat to give the US a reason to leave the area?
Posted by: SH at March 19, 2015 10:51 AM (gmeXX)
They're Communist comrades, and the Krazy Kims are the ChiCom's bad cop.
Posted by: SH at March 19, 2015 10:51 AM (gmeXX)
They're Communist comrades, and the Krazy Kims are the ChiCom's bad cop.
Posted by: steveegg at March 19, 2015 10:53 AM (cL79m)
240
Larry King is on Laura Ingrham!
Posted by: Baldy at March 19, 2015 10:53 AM (sEXjW)
241
Just listened to an interesting TED talk. It was about medicine but also politics. Cliff notes: We use too many antibiotics, the antibiotics we have are slowly becoming ineffectual, we need new R&D to develop new sources of antibiotics. Anyone object so far? Reasonable?
Now think of this in terms of energy -- a combination of conservation, cutting wasteful usage, and drilling for more energy. In fact the speaker referred to Sarah Palins 'drill baby, drill' in reference to finding new sources of antibiotics.
The speaker, from accent, appeared Indian. DNF.
Now think of this in terms of energy -- a combination of conservation, cutting wasteful usage, and drilling for more energy. In fact the speaker referred to Sarah Palins 'drill baby, drill' in reference to finding new sources of antibiotics.
The speaker, from accent, appeared Indian. DNF.
Posted by: SE Pa Moron at March 19, 2015 10:54 AM (xQX/f)
242
After a I have wonderful cheeks.
Posted by: Emperor Al-Barack the Magnificent at March 19, 2015 10:54 AM (FCsIb)
243
Posted by: steveegg at March 19, 2015 10:48 AM (cL79m)
Shit, I'm pretty sure my Samsung TV was made in China.
Shit, I'm pretty sure my Samsung TV was made in China.
Posted by: mynewhandle at March 19, 2015 10:54 AM (AkOaV)
244
Give the bastards some credit. It ain't easy to trick-fcuk the numbers, fool the yokels in flyover Jesus land, and kiss sheik ubama's ass all at the same time. And besides, money has to be raised for the next election campaign while simultaneously designing and fitting prince jebby's robes that he will wear in the ring where liawhatha beats his sorry ass.
Posted by: Eromero at March 19, 2015 10:55 AM (go5uR)
245
Why do we still have US Military in Iraq?
What are they doing there?
Serving as potential targets and hostages?
Why do we still have Military forces in Afghanistan?
What are they doing there?
Serving as potential targets and hostages?
Why do we still have Military forces in Afghanistan?
Posted by: Glorious Ung at March 19, 2015 10:55 AM (2p6Aa)
246
time to go fix some lunch. bbl
Posted by: Vic We Have No Party at March 19, 2015 10:55 AM (wlDny)
247
I've often wondered why China doesn't support the US against North Korea. Isn't it in China's interest to eliminate NK as a threat to give the US a reason to leave the area?
Posted by: SH at March 19, 2015 10:51 AM (gmeXX)
They're Communist comrades, and the Krazy Kims are the ChiCom's bad cop.
-----
They should have struck a deal with Obama to be very hard on the NK in exchange for the US removing its forces from SK.
I think Obama would have taken that deal.
Just some game theory.
Posted by: SH at March 19, 2015 10:51 AM (gmeXX)
They're Communist comrades, and the Krazy Kims are the ChiCom's bad cop.
-----
They should have struck a deal with Obama to be very hard on the NK in exchange for the US removing its forces from SK.
I think Obama would have taken that deal.
Just some game theory.
Posted by: SH at March 19, 2015 10:55 AM (gmeXX)
248
Larry King is on Laura Ingrham!
Posted by: Baldy at March 19, 2015 10:53 AM (sEXjW)
Phrasing!
Also: eeeeew.
Posted by: Baldy at March 19, 2015 10:53 AM (sEXjW)
Phrasing!
Also: eeeeew.
Posted by: AllenG (DedicatedTenther) - TrueCon at March 19, 2015 10:55 AM (kff5f)
249
Posted by: steveegg at March 19, 2015 10:48 AM (cL79m)
Correction. My Samsung TV was made in Tijuana, Mexico according to the placard.
Go figure.
Correction. My Samsung TV was made in Tijuana, Mexico according to the placard.
Go figure.
Posted by: mynewhandle at March 19, 2015 10:55 AM (AkOaV)
250
"Our models say 3 inches, the European Model says 8 inches." That way it's harder for them to be wrong.
Posted by: mynewhandle
-------------------------------
The Hebrew Model is calling for hailstones of fire and a bloody flash flood.
Posted by: mynewhandle
-------------------------------
The Hebrew Model is calling for hailstones of fire and a bloody flash flood.
Posted by: Roy at March 19, 2015 10:55 AM (VndSC)
251
Shit, I'm pretty sure my Samsung TV was made in China.
Posted by: mynewhandle at March 19, 2015 10:54 AM (AkOaV)
While that is true, the ChiComs don't have the business acumen to actually run the company or design the product.
Posted by: mynewhandle at March 19, 2015 10:54 AM (AkOaV)
While that is true, the ChiComs don't have the business acumen to actually run the company or design the product.
Posted by: steveegg at March 19, 2015 10:56 AM (cL79m)
Posted by: SH at March 19, 2015 10:56 AM (gmeXX)
253
I think this is why the "let's start a 3rd party" will never work on our side.
There's just too much disagreement. There's the NeoCons, the FiCon/Libertarian, and SoCons.
It worked in the 80's under Reagan, but now the interests are just too disparate and I don't see that coalition ever coming together again.
There's just too much disagreement. There's the NeoCons, the FiCon/Libertarian, and SoCons.
It worked in the 80's under Reagan, but now the interests are just too disparate and I don't see that coalition ever coming together again.
Posted by: Kal at March 19, 2015 10:56 AM (uK1H/)
Posted by: Misanthropic Humanitarian at March 19, 2015 10:57 AM (vPh3W)
Posted by: Zap Rowsdower at March 19, 2015 10:57 AM (MMC8r)
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at March 19, 2015 10:57 AM (Zu3d9)
257
The Hebrew Model is calling for hailstones of fire and a bloody flash flood.
Posted by: Roy at March 19, 2015 10:55 AM (VndSC
Oy
The Hebrew Model is calling for hailstones of fire and a bloody flash flood.
Posted by: Roy at March 19, 2015 10:55 AM (VndSC
Oy
Posted by: Misanthropic Humanitarian at March 19, 2015 10:58 AM (vPh3W)
258
It worked in the 80's under Reagan, but now the interests are just too disparate and I don't see that coalition ever coming together again.
----
It certainly helped to have a unifying force like being against communism. But while the GOP won the Presidency, it did less well in the legislature and state governments. So I'm not sure how strong the coalition actually was.
----
It certainly helped to have a unifying force like being against communism. But while the GOP won the Presidency, it did less well in the legislature and state governments. So I'm not sure how strong the coalition actually was.
Posted by: SH at March 19, 2015 10:58 AM (gmeXX)
259
I thought part of the deal was China wouldn't want to deal with the shitstorm of NK totally collapsing. When millions of North Koreans would come strolling over the border saying, "herro".
Posted by: Landofskybluewater at March 19, 2015 10:59 AM (6mll/)
260
@214
So which conflicts should we be involved in? Not trying to be an ass, I agree we don't need to be in each and every one, but Pax Americana was a positive good at one time. How do we draw down from that now that various politicians have screwed it up?
Nations don't have friends, they have interests, which means that whether or nota country likes us should mean much less than the actual interest we have in the peaceful sovereignty of that country. So how do we weigh the interests? What factors do we consider?
Once we establish that, the question becomes how we project our force so we can effectively protect those interests, and that's a diplomatic question with a definite price tag to it in several meanings of the word. But we do need overseas bases, even in this day of jet planes and Amazon Prime (sorry, that was flippant), to give our forces the logistical support they need to fight efficiently and effectively. Steaming out from the US every time there's a problem is not really efficient.
So to protect our interests, we have to take into account other's interests. "Entanglements" are nowhere near as hard to avoid as libertarian writers would think, and nowhere near as undesirable to have.
So which conflicts should we be involved in? Not trying to be an ass, I agree we don't need to be in each and every one, but Pax Americana was a positive good at one time. How do we draw down from that now that various politicians have screwed it up?
Nations don't have friends, they have interests, which means that whether or nota country likes us should mean much less than the actual interest we have in the peaceful sovereignty of that country. So how do we weigh the interests? What factors do we consider?
Once we establish that, the question becomes how we project our force so we can effectively protect those interests, and that's a diplomatic question with a definite price tag to it in several meanings of the word. But we do need overseas bases, even in this day of jet planes and Amazon Prime (sorry, that was flippant), to give our forces the logistical support they need to fight efficiently and effectively. Steaming out from the US every time there's a problem is not really efficient.
So to protect our interests, we have to take into account other's interests. "Entanglements" are nowhere near as hard to avoid as libertarian writers would think, and nowhere near as undesirable to have.
Posted by: lurkingestlurker at March 19, 2015 10:59 AM (k8xvx)
261
231 You can have the strongest military force in the world, that won't mean anything if you cannot project it and keep it supplied and fed in the field.
Ding. Effing. Ding.
We have not faced an area denial effort since World War II. With the navy we have now, we would be in grave trouble against China or even in a protracted Persian Gulf scenario against a state actor.
Posted by: Circa (Insert Year Here) at March 19, 2015 10:52 AM (659DL)
The only thing Barry ever cut was the military's budget. The Army's the smallest its been in decades. Its so bad they'll need their Trannies in the trenches.
Ding. Effing. Ding.
We have not faced an area denial effort since World War II. With the navy we have now, we would be in grave trouble against China or even in a protracted Persian Gulf scenario against a state actor.
Posted by: Circa (Insert Year Here) at March 19, 2015 10:52 AM (659DL)
The only thing Barry ever cut was the military's budget. The Army's the smallest its been in decades. Its so bad they'll need their Trannies in the trenches.
Posted by: Iblis at March 19, 2015 10:59 AM (9221z)
262
Why don't you ask Scott Walker what he thinks of fiscal conservatism vs. defense spending.
Posted by: chemjeff at March 19, 2015 10:59 AM (9GG/0)
263
They should have struck a deal with Obama to be very hard on the NK in exchange for the US removing its forces from SK.
I think Obama would have taken that deal.
Just some game theory.
Posted by: SH at March 19, 2015 10:55 AM (gmeXX)
Interesting thesis.
I think Obama would have taken that deal.
Just some game theory.
Posted by: SH at March 19, 2015 10:55 AM (gmeXX)
Interesting thesis.
Posted by: steveegg at March 19, 2015 11:00 AM (cL79m)
264
Nations don't have friends, they have interests
-----
I think the US does have friends. True friends. They are very limited though - UK, Canada, Israel, and Austrailia.
That's about it.
-----
I think the US does have friends. True friends. They are very limited though - UK, Canada, Israel, and Austrailia.
That's about it.
Posted by: SH at March 19, 2015 11:01 AM (gmeXX)
265
It worked in the 80's under Reagan, but now the interests are just too disparate and I don't see that coalition ever coming together again.
Probably not. However, there is at least hope.
First off, the "NeoCons" were never part of the stool. The "hawks" were (and there is a difference). Peace through strength, etc., etc.
Secondly, FiCons and SoCons are not really at odds. The Libertarians (which are actually different from the SoCons, if only slightly), are more "don't judge me!" but Social Conservatism is where you get the moral argument against Welfare and other spending. The two have much in common.
Third, we know it is possible- because it has happened before- for someone to get through to all three groups and explain that absolutism on their agenda is not going to succeed- so they need to focus on the overlap in the Venn diagram.
Finding someone who can make that case? That's the trick.
Probably not. However, there is at least hope.
First off, the "NeoCons" were never part of the stool. The "hawks" were (and there is a difference). Peace through strength, etc., etc.
Secondly, FiCons and SoCons are not really at odds. The Libertarians (which are actually different from the SoCons, if only slightly), are more "don't judge me!" but Social Conservatism is where you get the moral argument against Welfare and other spending. The two have much in common.
Third, we know it is possible- because it has happened before- for someone to get through to all three groups and explain that absolutism on their agenda is not going to succeed- so they need to focus on the overlap in the Venn diagram.
Finding someone who can make that case? That's the trick.
Posted by: AllenG (DedicatedTenther) - TrueCon at March 19, 2015 11:01 AM (kff5f)
266
They should have struck a deal with Obama to be very hard on the NK in exchange for the US removing its forces from SK. I think Obama would have taken that deal. Just some game theory. Posted by: SH at March 19, 2015 10:55 AM (gmeXX) Interesting thesis.
Sure he would. And the force withdrawal would happen. And nothing concrete would happen with NK. And the rethugs would be blamed.
Sure he would. And the force withdrawal would happen. And nothing concrete would happen with NK. And the rethugs would be blamed.
Posted by: Blue Hen at March 19, 2015 11:02 AM (Spluw)
267
Eh...been there...done that.
Posted by: Keith Olbermann at March 19, 2015 11:02 AM (6mll/)
268
Nations don't have friends, they have interests, which means that whether or nota country likes us should mean much less than the actual interest we have in the peaceful sovereignty of that country. So how do we weigh the interests? What factors do we consider?
See above on the need for strategy, not laundry lists.
1. Keep the bear penned.
2. Keep trade flowing.
3. Deter China.
Economic addendum: Frack everywhere and make the Persian Gulf less important. Do that and support for Israel becomes so much less complicated.
See above on the need for strategy, not laundry lists.
1. Keep the bear penned.
2. Keep trade flowing.
3. Deter China.
Economic addendum: Frack everywhere and make the Persian Gulf less important. Do that and support for Israel becomes so much less complicated.
Posted by: Circa (Insert Year Here) at March 19, 2015 11:02 AM (659DL)
269
So how might one go about defunding the Chamber of Commerce?
Posted by: Cloyd Freud, Unemployed at March 19, 2015 11:02 AM (lG2E3)
270
Off in a bit to the "Hun Lunch" group 30 old Republicans that the local paper once described as to the right of Hitler, hence the nic name.
Posted by: Nip Sip at March 19, 2015 11:03 AM (0FSuD)
271
@ 264
Alright, I think you are more or less right there. I might quibble, but I think it's fair to say that our interests and history are so closely aligned and favorable that "friend" is a fair term.
Note that in my post above I give no imprimatur to Obama's adventurism in the Middle East. Bush had problems, but Obama's tendency to try and break things and leave the pieces for Islamic fundamentalists to pick up has been far more disastrous.
Alright, I think you are more or less right there. I might quibble, but I think it's fair to say that our interests and history are so closely aligned and favorable that "friend" is a fair term.
Note that in my post above I give no imprimatur to Obama's adventurism in the Middle East. Bush had problems, but Obama's tendency to try and break things and leave the pieces for Islamic fundamentalists to pick up has been far more disastrous.
Posted by: lurkingestlurker at March 19, 2015 11:04 AM (k8xvx)
272
Laura Ingraham, I mean.
Posted by: Keith Olbermann at March 19, 2015 11:04 AM (6mll/)
273
Correction. My Samsung TV was made in Tijuana, Mexico according to the placard.
Go figure.
Posted by: mynewhandle at March 19, 2015 10:55 AM (AkOaV)
It was assembled in MX, the parts are all from Korea. They get duty free entry.
Go figure.
Posted by: mynewhandle at March 19, 2015 10:55 AM (AkOaV)
It was assembled in MX, the parts are all from Korea. They get duty free entry.
Posted by: Nip Sip at March 19, 2015 11:04 AM (0FSuD)
Posted by: Bandersnatch at March 19, 2015 11:04 AM (JtwS4)
275
ended up being a very "eh" storm -- maybe 5 or 6 inches.
My point was that modeling is limited by available observational data. It's still modeling though.
How many solar observatories are there?
My point was that modeling is limited by available observational data. It's still modeling though.
How many solar observatories are there?
Posted by: DaveA at March 19, 2015 11:05 AM (DL2i+)
276
@268
Agreed.
Agreed.
Posted by: lurkingestlurker at March 19, 2015 11:05 AM (k8xvx)
277
Finding someone who can make that case? That's the trick.
Posted by: AllenG (DedicatedTenther) - TrueCon at March 19, 2015 11:01
Looking for the next best thing.
Posted by: AllenG (DedicatedTenther) - TrueCon at March 19, 2015 11:01
Looking for the next best thing.
Posted by: Misanthropic Humanitarian at March 19, 2015 11:05 AM (vPh3W)
278
79
What would happen if like 70 members of congress just up and left the
GOP refusing to Caucus with either side. Could we give Pelosi back the
speakers gavel, and they hold the entire house hostage until we get a
good speaker candidate, caucus with the GOP and then take the
speakership back on our own terms, holding a gun to the head of the
establishment knowing that we can return Pelosi to the thrown at any
moment.
We could do it in the Senate as well, with less people.
Seems to me that's the easiest way to make a legitimate third party viable, just up and do it.
Posted by: Dr. Shatterhand at March 19, 2015 10:11 AM (n/ogz)
We should be aiming to vacate the Speakership position rather than handing the gavel to Pelosi. This should have been done at the beginning of session because, during that vote, we only needed enough votes to keep either Boehner or Pelosi from getting a majority of votes cast to keep both of them out of the Speaker position. After that, all we would have needed to do is play spoiler until a candidate acceptable to conservatives (one who wouldn't, for instance, caucus with the Dems) was put forward. The two caveats to this is that the Dems could have played spoiler and voted for Boehner... in which case, at least it would have been explicit that he is batting for the other side. The RINOs could have also played spoiler by voting for Pelosi but that would have been much less likely as they would have been tarred and feathered by their voters.
NOW, we would need a majority to vote with the conservatives to remove him. This ship has sailed until the beginning of the next session when, again, Boehner will need a majority of votes cast to remain in a leadership position.
What would happen if like 70 members of congress just up and left the
GOP refusing to Caucus with either side. Could we give Pelosi back the
speakers gavel, and they hold the entire house hostage until we get a
good speaker candidate, caucus with the GOP and then take the
speakership back on our own terms, holding a gun to the head of the
establishment knowing that we can return Pelosi to the thrown at any
moment.
We could do it in the Senate as well, with less people.
Seems to me that's the easiest way to make a legitimate third party viable, just up and do it.
Posted by: Dr. Shatterhand at March 19, 2015 10:11 AM (n/ogz)
We should be aiming to vacate the Speakership position rather than handing the gavel to Pelosi. This should have been done at the beginning of session because, during that vote, we only needed enough votes to keep either Boehner or Pelosi from getting a majority of votes cast to keep both of them out of the Speaker position. After that, all we would have needed to do is play spoiler until a candidate acceptable to conservatives (one who wouldn't, for instance, caucus with the Dems) was put forward. The two caveats to this is that the Dems could have played spoiler and voted for Boehner... in which case, at least it would have been explicit that he is batting for the other side. The RINOs could have also played spoiler by voting for Pelosi but that would have been much less likely as they would have been tarred and feathered by their voters.
NOW, we would need a majority to vote with the conservatives to remove him. This ship has sailed until the beginning of the next session when, again, Boehner will need a majority of votes cast to remain in a leadership position.
Posted by: redbanzai at March 19, 2015 11:05 AM (OrI3J)
279
*tilts head to one side*
Bet just the pictures would cause riots in the No-Go Zones France officially declares don't exist.
http://www.ufunk.net/en/publicite/terre-des-femmes/
Bet just the pictures would cause riots in the No-Go Zones France officially declares don't exist.
http://www.ufunk.net/en/publicite/terre-des-femmes/
Posted by: Anna Puma (+SmuD) at March 19, 2015 11:05 AM (CWIQ2)
280
Alright, I think you are more or less right there. I might quibble, but I think it's fair to say that our interests and history are so closely aligned and favorable that "friend" is a fair term.
-----
Those are just countries that we have a strong cultularal connection to and we must defend at all costs. The are more than mere allies.
-----
Those are just countries that we have a strong cultularal connection to and we must defend at all costs. The are more than mere allies.
Posted by: SH at March 19, 2015 11:06 AM (gmeXX)
281
Optimism is for losers.
Posted by: The Great White Snark at March 19, 2015 11:07 AM (3nDuC)
282
Posted by: Cloyd Freud, Unemployed at March 19, 2015 11:02 AM (lG2E3)
Well, since it's not a government entity... by not buying things?
You can't really defund them, but you can defang them. Free trade (real free trade, with solid borders kind of a thing), tax reform (not this progressive crap we have now), remove or at least reduce the minimum wage, nuke welfare.
Then- most important- deregulate All The Things. Maybe not complete repeal of all regs, but certainly repealing most of them and nuking the Executive's authority to legislate by fiat (see also: Delegation Doctrine).
Once most barriers to entry are removed/lowered, competition across all sectors will start back up, the CoC is not going to be quite as powerful.
Add in real Constitutional governance (Federalism, FTW!), and suddenly the CoC (at least on a national level) has virtually no real clout.
Well, since it's not a government entity... by not buying things?
You can't really defund them, but you can defang them. Free trade (real free trade, with solid borders kind of a thing), tax reform (not this progressive crap we have now), remove or at least reduce the minimum wage, nuke welfare.
Then- most important- deregulate All The Things. Maybe not complete repeal of all regs, but certainly repealing most of them and nuking the Executive's authority to legislate by fiat (see also: Delegation Doctrine).
Once most barriers to entry are removed/lowered, competition across all sectors will start back up, the CoC is not going to be quite as powerful.
Add in real Constitutional governance (Federalism, FTW!), and suddenly the CoC (at least on a national level) has virtually no real clout.
Posted by: AllenG (DedicatedTenther) - TrueCon at March 19, 2015 11:07 AM (kff5f)
283
Looking for the next best thing.
Posted by: Misanthropic Humanitarian at March 19, 2015 11:05 AM (vPh3W)
Speaking of that, did we have a time for Saturday's WI MoMe?
Posted by: Misanthropic Humanitarian at March 19, 2015 11:05 AM (vPh3W)
Speaking of that, did we have a time for Saturday's WI MoMe?
Posted by: steveegg at March 19, 2015 11:08 AM (cL79m)
284
Off in a bit to the "Hun Lunch" group 30 old Republicans that the local paper once described as to the right of Hitler, hence the nic name.
Considering Hitler was a leftist, I would hope so.
Considering Hitler was a leftist, I would hope so.
Posted by: Zap Rowsdower at March 19, 2015 11:08 AM (MMC8r)
285
Oh hellllllllllllll no.
http://tinyurl.com/l9cf7sq
Hikers Squeeze Their Bodies Through an Incredibly Narrow Hole to Access a Beautiful Underground Cave
http://tinyurl.com/l9cf7sq
Hikers Squeeze Their Bodies Through an Incredibly Narrow Hole to Access a Beautiful Underground Cave
Posted by: RWC - Team BOHICA at March 19, 2015 11:08 AM (fWAjv)
286
@280.
Indeed!
Indeed!
Posted by: lurkingestlurker at March 19, 2015 11:08 AM (k8xvx)
287
283 Looking for the next best thing.
Posted by: Misanthropic Humanitarian at March 19, 2015 11:05 AM (vPh3W)
Speaking of that, did we have a time for Saturday's WI MoMe?
Posted by: steveegg at March 19, 2015 11:08 AM (cL79m)
6PM setterguy2014 at the g mail thing
Posted by: Misanthropic Humanitarian at March 19, 2015 11:05 AM (vPh3W)
Speaking of that, did we have a time for Saturday's WI MoMe?
Posted by: steveegg at March 19, 2015 11:08 AM (cL79m)
6PM setterguy2014 at the g mail thing
Posted by: Misanthropic Humanitarian at March 19, 2015 11:09 AM (vPh3W)
288
Term limits term limits term limits
President / 2 terms 8 years max
Senator / 1 term 6 years
Rep / 3 terms 6 years max
Congress total 12 years max
No lobbying or working for anyone with federal business for minimum 2 years or 1/2 time spent in office (ie 4 years or less = 2 years in private sector or local govt, add 1/2 yr for every year above that)
Supreme Court = life or until you can't walk 2 miles in 30 minutes unassisted by people or canes, walkers etc
President / 2 terms 8 years max
Senator / 1 term 6 years
Rep / 3 terms 6 years max
Congress total 12 years max
No lobbying or working for anyone with federal business for minimum 2 years or 1/2 time spent in office (ie 4 years or less = 2 years in private sector or local govt, add 1/2 yr for every year above that)
Supreme Court = life or until you can't walk 2 miles in 30 minutes unassisted by people or canes, walkers etc
Posted by: Bruce Jenner's Plastic Vag at March 19, 2015 11:09 AM (qG5kf)
289
Its so bad they'll need their Trannies in the trenches.
Posted by: Iblis at March 19, 2015 10:59 AM (9221z)
Aaaand phrasing!
Posted by: Iblis at March 19, 2015 10:59 AM (9221z)
Aaaand phrasing!
Posted by: Insomniac at March 19, 2015 11:09 AM (2Ojst)
290
6PM setterguy2014 at the g mail thing
Posted by: Misanthropic Humanitarian at March 19, 2015 11:09 AM (vPh3W)
Copy that.
Posted by: Misanthropic Humanitarian at March 19, 2015 11:09 AM (vPh3W)
Copy that.
Posted by: steveegg at March 19, 2015 11:09 AM (cL79m)
291
Hikers Squeeze Their Bodies Through an Incredibly Narrow Hole to Access a Beautiful Underground Cave
Yeah, no. Not that I would fit anyway.
Yeah, no. Not that I would fit anyway.
Posted by: Circa (Insert Year Here) at March 19, 2015 11:09 AM (659DL)
292
281 Optimism is for losers.
Posted by: The Great White Snark at March 19, 2015 11:07 AM (3nDuC
Just as AA is for quitters
Posted by: The Great White Snark at March 19, 2015 11:07 AM (3nDuC
Just as AA is for quitters
Posted by: Misanthropic Humanitarian at March 19, 2015 11:10 AM (vPh3W)
293
nood
Posted by: Nip Sip at March 19, 2015 11:10 AM (0FSuD)
294
in the No-Go Zones France officially declares don't exist.
-
They don't think they exist but they're not sure because they can't go there.
-
They don't think they exist but they're not sure because they can't go there.
Posted by: The Great White Snark at March 19, 2015 11:10 AM (3nDuC)
295
I don't know how I feel about term limits - but I do like Insty's revolving door tax idea for government workers turned lobbyists.
Posted by: SH at March 19, 2015 11:10 AM (gmeXX)
296
Art up
Posted by: Vic We Have No Party at March 19, 2015 11:11 AM (wlDny)
297
http://tinyurl.com/l9cf7sq
Hikers Squeeze Their Bodies Through an Incredibly Narrow Hole to Access a Beautiful Underground Cave
Posted by: RWC - Team BOHICA at March 19, 2015 11:08 AM (fWAjv)
I'm not claustrophobic, but f*ck that noise.
http://tinyurl.com/l9cf7sq
Hikers Squeeze Their Bodies Through an Incredibly Narrow Hole to Access a Beautiful Underground Cave
Posted by: RWC - Team BOHICA at March 19, 2015 11:08 AM (fWAjv)
I'm not claustrophobic, but f*ck that noise.
Posted by: Insomniac at March 19, 2015 11:11 AM (2Ojst)
298
For those who follow foreign policy, does anyone know what the status is of UN Res 1618 -- the 'hate speech' one -- that after Bengazi was the subject of speeches like "the future does not belong to those who slander the prophet"?
While Obama is saber-rattling about UN sanctions against Israel, isn't that another leg of his foreign policy through the UN?
While Obama is saber-rattling about UN sanctions against Israel, isn't that another leg of his foreign policy through the UN?
Posted by: Mustbequantum at March 19, 2015 11:11 AM (MIKMs)
299
Be careful red - your post may be a little too optimistic for the horde today.
Festivus continues.
Posted by: SH at March 19, 2015 10:49 AM (gmeXX)
That's me... a freakin' ray of continual sunshine:-)
Festivus continues.
Posted by: SH at March 19, 2015 10:49 AM (gmeXX)
That's me... a freakin' ray of continual sunshine:-)
Posted by: redbanzai at March 19, 2015 11:14 AM (OrI3J)
300
If the Boehner and McConnell had come out fighting after the elections (I know, I know just roll with it for a moment)-
and they had stymied Obama at every turn and pushed hard to scuttle amnesty, defund and destroy Obamacare, get the foot of gov't off the necks of business, especially, ones like the biomedical industry.
Etc, etc, etc.
The GOP would be looking at a group of fired up supporters ready to get this job done come November 2016.
Hell, the GOPe could probably even have gotten their boy Jeb elected happily because we would've thought there was fire and fighters for what we believe in, but...
Nope.
They simply chose to fuck over their supporters.
I don't want the burning times for my children.
I want to fight along side a real leader who will fight for prosperity and freedom and the rule of law.
Where do I go to find that political ally? Where is that leader?
and they had stymied Obama at every turn and pushed hard to scuttle amnesty, defund and destroy Obamacare, get the foot of gov't off the necks of business, especially, ones like the biomedical industry.
Etc, etc, etc.
The GOP would be looking at a group of fired up supporters ready to get this job done come November 2016.
Hell, the GOPe could probably even have gotten their boy Jeb elected happily because we would've thought there was fire and fighters for what we believe in, but...
Nope.
They simply chose to fuck over their supporters.
I don't want the burning times for my children.
I want to fight along side a real leader who will fight for prosperity and freedom and the rule of law.
Where do I go to find that political ally? Where is that leader?
Posted by: naturalfake at March 19, 2015 11:20 AM (KUa85)
301
Overseas Contingency Operations... Isn't this the money Obama will use to fight global warming?
Elected conservative Republicans must resign from the GOP immediately and caucus with the GOPe only when they act within the Constitution.
Elected conservative Republicans must resign from the GOP immediately and caucus with the GOPe only when they act within the Constitution.
Posted by: Valiant at March 19, 2015 11:22 AM (4rlxS)
302
>>>15 Why don't they just ask Obama to write the budget and send it over? It's going to be his budget anyway.
Posted by: Cloyd Freud, Unemployed at March 19, 2015 09:54 AM (lG2E3)>>
actually, what generally happens is Obama sends his budget over. Republicans engage in their failure theater and pretend to be tough, proposing a 0.00000000000000001% budget cut. Obama says, "suck my dick." The Republicans say "okay, we'll go with your deal. And suck your dick too." Obama says, "fuck that. Double my original proposal and suck my dick." Republicans say, "awesome deal! Thank you, master!!!"
Posted by: Cloyd Freud, Unemployed at March 19, 2015 09:54 AM (lG2E3)>>
actually, what generally happens is Obama sends his budget over. Republicans engage in their failure theater and pretend to be tough, proposing a 0.00000000000000001% budget cut. Obama says, "suck my dick." The Republicans say "okay, we'll go with your deal. And suck your dick too." Obama says, "fuck that. Double my original proposal and suck my dick." Republicans say, "awesome deal! Thank you, master!!!"
Posted by: gm at March 19, 2015 11:25 AM (K0tm3)
303
All the prison guards swear by it. That's our story and we are sticking to it.
Posted by: Bubba, FL game warden at March 19, 2015 10:07 AM (0FSuD)
--------------------------
Manatee. Yeah, I'd hit it...
All the prison guards swear by it. That's our story and we are sticking to it.
Posted by: Bubba, FL game warden at March 19, 2015 10:07 AM (0FSuD)
--------------------------
Manatee. Yeah, I'd hit it...
Posted by: Hillary Clinton at March 19, 2015 11:26 AM (HSmrB)
304
"There's just too much disagreement. There's the NeoCons, the FiCon/Libertarian, and SoCons."
We'd all have to agree to save the Constitutional structure first and then have the arguments about other stuff.
I know, I know, never gonna happen, but hope springs eternal, amirite ?
We'd all have to agree to save the Constitutional structure first and then have the arguments about other stuff.
I know, I know, never gonna happen, but hope springs eternal, amirite ?
Posted by: sock_rat_eez at March 19, 2015 11:26 AM (OCcU9)
305
We'd all have to agree to save the Constitutional structure first and then have the arguments about other stuff.
We're never going to all agree on everything. Our biggest problem right now is that We the People aren't even in agreement as to whether we should have Rule of Law or not.
We're never going to all agree on everything. Our biggest problem right now is that We the People aren't even in agreement as to whether we should have Rule of Law or not.
Posted by: Moderate Salami at March 19, 2015 11:43 AM (/Ho8c)
306
Libs and progressives must be laughing their asses off seeing such feckless, brainless shenanigans from the GOP. They could only dream of such a perfect storm of piss-poor GOP leadership and their roll over like a submissive dog response to every damn thing.
Posted by: Russkilitlover at March 19, 2015 11:44 AM (phyTa)
307
Good thing our representatives kept Boehner in there. God forbid they voted him out or something - I mean those idiot tea party favorites didn't have a plan to replace Boehner!! what idiots.
Posted by: Reality Man at March 19, 2015 11:50 AM (9AQdP)
308
I follow the news pretty closely. I'm pretty sure none of that was what the GOP promised.
Y'all were deceived. It's the same GOP that nominated McCain and told y'all to donate money, get in the back of the bus, sit down, and most importantly shut up.
Because, they said.
I follow the news pretty closely. I'm pretty sure none of that was what the GOP promised.
Y'all were deceived. It's the same GOP that nominated McCain and told y'all to donate money, get in the back of the bus, sit down, and most importantly shut up.
Because, they said.
Posted by: I R A Darth Aggie at March 19, 2015 11:57 AM (1hM1d)
309
Honestly, you should really find something else to write about. I don't think you even understand half of what you write. Your well-worn narrative is the GOP sucks, so let's back into another story with that line.
Posted by: Marcus T at March 19, 2015 12:08 PM (GGCsk)
310
285 Oh hellllllllllllll no.
http://tinyurl.com/l9cf7sq
Hikers Squeeze Their Bodies Through an Incredibly Narrow Hole to Access a Beautiful Underground Cave
Posted by: RWC - Team BOHICA at March 19, 2015 11:08 AM (fWAjv)
I don't think I'd do that unless I was certain that I could get back out. What if it turned out to be like a lobster trap?
http://tinyurl.com/l9cf7sq
Hikers Squeeze Their Bodies Through an Incredibly Narrow Hole to Access a Beautiful Underground Cave
Posted by: RWC - Team BOHICA at March 19, 2015 11:08 AM (fWAjv)
I don't think I'd do that unless I was certain that I could get back out. What if it turned out to be like a lobster trap?
Posted by: rickl at March 19, 2015 12:12 PM (zoehZ)
311
"I know you're tired of reading "GOP sucks" posts. Believe it or not, I'm getting tired of writing them"
So shut up. For Gods sake, stop pressing your fingers on the keyboard and sucking up an otherwise decent blog. WE GET IT ALREADY, YOU OFFER ABSOLUTELY NO SOLUTIONS SO SHUT THE FUCK UP!
So shut up. For Gods sake, stop pressing your fingers on the keyboard and sucking up an otherwise decent blog. WE GET IT ALREADY, YOU OFFER ABSOLUTELY NO SOLUTIONS SO SHUT THE FUCK UP!
Posted by: DrewM still sucks at March 19, 2015 12:13 PM (EgbCN)
312
>>>So shut up. For Gods sake, stop pressing your fingers on the keyboard and sucking up an otherwise decent blog. WE GET IT ALREADY, YOU OFFER ABSOLUTELY NO SOLUTIONS SO SHUT THE FUCK UP!
Posted by: DrewM still sucks at March 19, 2015 12:13 PM >>>
The solution is to stop voting for these clowns, you imbecile.
Posted by: DrewM still sucks at March 19, 2015 12:13 PM >>>
The solution is to stop voting for these clowns, you imbecile.
Posted by: gm at March 19, 2015 12:18 PM (K0tm3)
313
>>>309 Honestly, you should really find something else to write about. I don't think you even understand half of what you write. Your well-worn narrative is the GOP sucks, so let's back into another story with that line.
Posted by: Marcus T at March 19, 2015 12:08 PM (GGCsk)>>>
just because you don't understand half of what you read doesn't mean that the writer doesn't understand half of what he is writing, you halfwit. It's an upside down world where you simpletons have banded together to convince yourselves and each other that you're intellectually superior to anything but a rock.
Posted by: Marcus T at March 19, 2015 12:08 PM (GGCsk)>>>
just because you don't understand half of what you read doesn't mean that the writer doesn't understand half of what he is writing, you halfwit. It's an upside down world where you simpletons have banded together to convince yourselves and each other that you're intellectually superior to anything but a rock.
Posted by: gm at March 19, 2015 12:21 PM (K0tm3)
314
I'm a big, big supporter (demander ? (Is that even a word?)) of budget austerity. But I also think we should be taking money away from other sources rather than from the military.
Right now, our armed forces are being squeezed too tightly. I want more planes, more troops and more ships.
Cut Medicaid to pay for it.
Right now, our armed forces are being squeezed too tightly. I want more planes, more troops and more ships.
Cut Medicaid to pay for it.
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards at March 19, 2015 12:25 PM (M4qmU)
315
If McCain and Graham want more toys for their foreign wars, maybe they should have thought about that before selling out the immigration hawks.
Posted by: bjk at March 19, 2015 12:29 PM (RcqHr)
Posted by: gwelf at March 19, 2015 12:34 PM (TJ8HB)
317
would it really hurt to give the gop a little credit once in awhile? they seem to have effectively thrown a monkey wrench into obama's iran give awayand they are still fighting to get to the truth on benghazi
would it really hurt to give the gop a little credit once in awhile? they seem to have effectively thrown a monkey wrench into obama's iran give awayand they are still fighting to get to the truth on benghazi
Posted by: kj at March 19, 2015 12:35 PM (lKyWE)
318
Fcuking lawyers. Accounting may be a bit confusing for them because it's too straight forward.
Stop with the gimmicks already, jackholes.
Stop with the gimmicks already, jackholes.
Posted by: Fritz at March 19, 2015 12:51 PM (ty633)
319
Yep, this session of Congress is basically a repeat of the 2001-2006 Congress, only without Bush in the White House.
Go figure, in the Senate, it's RINOsaur LOSERship is just about the same geriatric crony crowd as back then. There was barely a creative common sense bone in any of them back then, this time they just older and crustier...
The RINOsaurs will spend spend spend, expand financially unstable entitlement programs, probably by saving Obamacare from itself, they'll be tone deaf on common sense stuff that matters to the people, and much more. And yes, they'll mumble some incomprehensible procedural mumbo jumbo about what they are trying to do, which will NOT include any concise marketable common sense statements about what the GOP stands for.
Go figure, in the Senate, it's RINOsaur LOSERship is just about the same geriatric crony crowd as back then. There was barely a creative common sense bone in any of them back then, this time they just older and crustier...
The RINOsaurs will spend spend spend, expand financially unstable entitlement programs, probably by saving Obamacare from itself, they'll be tone deaf on common sense stuff that matters to the people, and much more. And yes, they'll mumble some incomprehensible procedural mumbo jumbo about what they are trying to do, which will NOT include any concise marketable common sense statements about what the GOP stands for.
Posted by: Seipherd at March 19, 2015 01:33 PM (pRSkv)
320
"Now I'm no ship building expert, but that's a lot of fucking money and I'm having a hard time figuring out how it's so expensive."
1. Combat systems. Those aren't your home network; they have to be validated to both operate properly (you do NOT want a system crash in the middle with vampires inbound) and to be secure (you do NOT want some pimply-faced teenager firing the ship's weapons from his mom's basement). Doing that costs big money.
2. MIL-STD gear for shock resistance. US ships are about the only ones out there designed to continue fighting after taking a hit. That costs big money.
Remember the USS Cole? Had that been just about any other navy's destroyer, she would've been cut up for scrap at pierside. She's in service today. At the time, her combat systems were fully operable--she could've engaged enemy aircraft, or launched Tomahawk strikes. While sitting on the bottom of the damn harbor.
1. Combat systems. Those aren't your home network; they have to be validated to both operate properly (you do NOT want a system crash in the middle with vampires inbound) and to be secure (you do NOT want some pimply-faced teenager firing the ship's weapons from his mom's basement). Doing that costs big money.
2. MIL-STD gear for shock resistance. US ships are about the only ones out there designed to continue fighting after taking a hit. That costs big money.
Remember the USS Cole? Had that been just about any other navy's destroyer, she would've been cut up for scrap at pierside. She's in service today. At the time, her combat systems were fully operable--she could've engaged enemy aircraft, or launched Tomahawk strikes. While sitting on the bottom of the damn harbor.
Posted by: Darth Cobalt Shiva at March 19, 2015 01:58 PM (WaxJp)
321
Drew really ought to run for elected office. He's the Bomb.
Posted by: Colonel Haiku at March 19, 2015 01:59 PM (Y8JQ4)
322
running political cover for the enemy.
Posted by: Colonel Haiku at March 19, 2015 02:00 PM (Y8JQ4)
323
The solution is to stop voting for these clowns, you imbecile.
Posted by: gm at March 19, 2015 12:18 PM (K0tm3)
And empower the other clowns, no you miserable festering pus filled pile of dog diarrhea: the solution is to get involved and take back the GOP and the country. Not whine like a big bitch watching the lifetime network you pussy.
The solution is to stop voting for these clowns, you imbecile.
Posted by: gm at March 19, 2015 12:18 PM (K0tm3)
And empower the other clowns, no you miserable festering pus filled pile of dog diarrhea: the solution is to get involved and take back the GOP and the country. Not whine like a big bitch watching the lifetime network you pussy.
Posted by: DrewM still sucks at March 19, 2015 08:45 PM (EgbCN)
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Real Clear Politics
Gallup
Frequently Asked Questions
The (Almost) Complete Paul Anka Integrity Kick
Primary Document: The Audio
Paul Anka Haiku Contest Announcement
Integrity SAT's: Entrance Exam for Paul Anka's Band
AllahPundit's Paul Anka 45's Collection
AnkaPundit: Paul Anka Takes Over the Site for a Weekend (Continues through to Monday's postings)
George Bush Slices Don Rumsfeld Like an F*ckin' Hammer
Paul Anka Haiku Contest Announcement
Integrity SAT's: Entrance Exam for Paul Anka's Band
AllahPundit's Paul Anka 45's Collection
AnkaPundit: Paul Anka Takes Over the Site for a Weekend (Continues through to Monday's postings)
George Bush Slices Don Rumsfeld Like an F*ckin' Hammer
Top Top Tens
Democratic Forays into Erotica
New Shows On Gore's DNC/MTV Network
Nicknames for Potatoes, By People Who Really Hate Potatoes
Star Wars Euphemisms for Self-Abuse
Signs You're at an Iraqi "Wedding Party"
Signs Your Clown Has Gone Bad
Signs That You, Geroge Michael, Should Probably Just Give It Up
Signs of Hip-Hop Influence on John Kerry
NYT Headlines Spinning Bush's Jobs Boom
Things People Are More Likely to Say Than "Did You Hear What Al Franken Said Yesterday?"
Signs that Paul Krugman Has Lost His Frickin' Mind
All-Time Best NBA Players, According to Senator Robert Byrd
Other Bad Things About the Jews, According to the Koran
Signs That David Letterman Just Doesn't Care Anymore
Examples of Bob Kerrey's Insufferable Racial Jackassery
Signs Andy Rooney Is Going Senile
Other Judgments Dick Clarke Made About Condi Rice Based on Her Appearance
Collective Names for Groups of People
John Kerry's Other Vietnam Super-Pets
Cool Things About the XM8 Assault Rifle
Media-Approved Facts About the Democrat Spy
Changes to Make Christianity More "Inclusive"
Secret John Kerry Senatorial Accomplishments
John Edwards Campaign Excuses
John Kerry Pick-Up Lines
Changes Liberal Senator George Michell Will Make at Disney
Torments in Dog-Hell
Greatest Hitjobs
The Ace of Spades HQ Sex-for-Money Skankathon
A D&D Guide to the Democratic Candidates
Margaret Cho: Just Not Funny
More Margaret Cho Abuse
Margaret Cho: Still Not Funny
Iraqi Prisoner Claims He Was Raped... By Woman
Wonkette Announces "Morning Zoo" Format
John Kerry's "Plan" Causes Surrender of Moqtada al-Sadr's Militia
World Muslim Leaders Apologize for Nick Berg's Beheading
Michael Moore Goes on Lunchtime Manhattan Death-Spree
Milestone: Oliver Willis Posts 400th "Fake News Article" Referencing Britney Spears
Liberal Economists Rue a "New Decade of Greed"
Artificial Insouciance: Maureen Dowd's Word Processor Revolts Against Her Numbing Imbecility
Intelligence Officials Eye Blogs for Tips
They Done Found Us Out, Cletus: Intrepid Internet Detective Figures Out Our Master Plan
Shock: Josh Marshall Almost Mentions Sarin Discovery in Iraq
Leather-Clad Biker Freaks Terrorize Australian Town
When Clinton Was President, Torture Was Cool
What Wonkette Means When She Explains What Tina Brown Means
Wonkette's Stand-Up Act
Wankette HQ Gay-Rumors Du Jour
Here's What's Bugging Me: Goose and Slider
My Own Micah Wright Style Confession of Dishonesty
Outraged "Conservatives" React to the FMA
An On-Line Impression of Dennis Miller Having Sex with a Kodiak Bear
The Story the Rightwing Media Refuses to Report!
Our Lunch with David "Glengarry Glen Ross" Mamet
The House of Love: Paul Krugman
A Michael Moore Mystery (TM)
The Dowd-O-Matic!
Liberal Consistency and Other Myths
Kepler's Laws of Liberal Media Bias
John Kerry-- The Splunge! Candidate
"Divisive" Politics & "Attacks on Patriotism" (very long)
The Donkey ("The Raven" parody)
News/Chat