by: Les Carpenter
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservatism
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
Intellectual honesty... A concept worth aspiring to. Unfortunately the philosophic regimen and discipline to achieve this lofty goal has been lost on the current generation of self serving and single issue driven politicians. Make no mistake folks the preceding statement applies to both parties. Neither can get past ideological differences to solve common problems.
This site markets itself as an Independent Conservative/Libertarian blog with a strong focus on Constitutional and Randian principles. Understanding the full depth of either requires a bit of study as well as an open mind. Both are attributes that our founding fathers, and the principles that they stood for, require.
Maybe this site was naive in its inception as it launched its maiden voyage. It believed, incorrectly so, that conservatives and liberal alike understood the basic and central concepts that lead to the birth of the Age of Reason and The Enlightenment.
This site could not have been more incorrect in its assumptions.
As Rational Nation USA has recently voiced its concerns that conservatives have lost the high ground through their incorrigible and intransigent stubbornness in the pursuit to preserve the purity of their ideological agenda it has lost considerable readership. So be it. Rational thought, which ultimately leads to the truth, is exceedingly more important than ideological platitudes and over heated hyperbole.
The fact is the independent conservatism this site has defined and clearly enunciated over the past two plus years is not the conservatism that the current crop of conservative republicans understand, let alone support.
So, going forward, this site remains committed to the principles enunciated in its Conservative Manifesto. For those closed minded sheeple like conservatives the Editor in Chief encourages you to find a site that will tell you exactly what you are desirous of hearing.
For those with an inquiring and inquisitive conservative/libertarian mind this is the place to be. A place where open mindedness and free flowing concepts are welcome.
Remember this tidbit... To find successful solutions you first must understand the problem. In business so it is in government.
Update: Thanks to the info provided by TAO I happily link the readership here at Rational Nation USA to DonorsChoose.org Make the trip, it just may turn out to be a worthwhile one.
Via: CLASSICAL LIBERALISM: THE BEST OF POLITICAL CREEDS
Sunday, July 31, 2011
Tentative Deal on Debt Ceiling and Deficit Reduction Struck
by: Les Carpenter
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservatism
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
ABC is reporting a tentative deal has been reached raising the the debt ceiling by 2.4 trillion dollars with guaranteed spending cuts in the same amount.
The Note:
As is said... the Devil lies in the details. This certainly doesn't look like the best deal conservatives might have struck. Perhaps they should have been less intransigent early on.
Via: Memeorandum
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservatism
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
ABC is reporting a tentative deal has been reached raising the the debt ceiling by 2.4 trillion dollars with guaranteed spending cuts in the same amount.
The Note:
Democratic and Republican Congressional sources involved in the negotiations tell ABC News that a tentative agreement has been reached on the framework of a deal that would give the President a debt ceiling increase of up to $2.4 trillion and guarantee an equal amount of deficit reduction over the next 10 years.
Congressional leaders plan to brief their members on the framework tomorrow. The reaction from both parties' rank-and-file will determine whether this tentative deal becomes a final deal.
Here, according to Democratic and Republican sources, are the key elements:
- A debt ceiling increase of up to $2.1 to $2.4 trillion (depending on the size of the spending cuts agreed to in the final deal).
- They have now agreed to spending cuts of roughly $1.2 trillion over 10 years.
- The formation of a special Congressional committee to recommend further deficit reduction of up to $1.6 trillion (whatever it takes to add up to the total of the debt ceiling increase). This deficit reduction could take the form of spending cuts, tax increases or both.
- The special committee must make recommendations by late November (before Congress' Thanksgiving recess).
- If Congress does not approve those cuts by December 23, automatic across-the-board cuts go into effect, including cuts to Defense and Medicare. This "trigger" is designed to force action on the deficit reduction committee's recommendations by making the alternative painful to both Democrats and Republicans.
{Read More}
- A vote, in both the House and Senate, on a balanced budget amendment.
As is said... the Devil lies in the details. This certainly doesn't look like the best deal conservatives might have struck. Perhaps they should have been less intransigent early on.
Via: Memeorandum
Labels:
Debt Ceiling,
Deficit Reduction
I Remember a Time When...
by: Les Carpenter
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservatism
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
Occasionally everyone finds themselves reminiscing about the "good old days." It does the "soul" good. Even when one defines the "soul" as the rational mind as this writer does.
I remember a time when the unemployment rate was below five percent and everybody that wanted a job seemed to be working.
I remember a time when made in America was something to be proud of and pride in American workmanship was justified.
I remember a time when American values were respected worldwide and everybody wanted to be like the good old USA.
I remember a time when there was honor in politics and aspiring to serve as a elected official was an honorable pursuit.
I remember a time when the great American middle class was growing and prosperity was taken for granted.
I remember a time when corporate CEO's received REASONABLE compensation for their contributions and few questioned why they received what they did.
I remember a time when Americans believed there was nothing they couldn't accomplish if they put their minds to it.
I remember a time prior to the Department of Education when American students were among the best educated in the world.
I remember a time when a 10 or 12 year old could sit on their father's lap and learn to drive the family car.
I remember a time when a boy could go target shooting with his father and neither had to have a permit or license to do so.
I remember a time when common decency and civil language was commonplace. A time when young boys and girls had their mouth cleaned with soap for using filthy words in the presence of civilized people.
I remember a time when Mom was home bringing up the family and instilling values in the children... giving them guidance rather than a disinteresed babysiter or nanny.
I remember a time when government was smaller, when citizens had more liberty, and when we were a fiscally sound nation.
I am truly thankful I was fortunate enough to grow up during the time America experienced its very best years.
I am apprehensive for my children and grandchildren. America needs to find a dawn of rebirth.
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservatism
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
Occasionally everyone finds themselves reminiscing about the "good old days." It does the "soul" good. Even when one defines the "soul" as the rational mind as this writer does.
I remember a time when the unemployment rate was below five percent and everybody that wanted a job seemed to be working.
I remember a time when made in America was something to be proud of and pride in American workmanship was justified.
I remember a time when American values were respected worldwide and everybody wanted to be like the good old USA.
I remember a time when there was honor in politics and aspiring to serve as a elected official was an honorable pursuit.
I remember a time when the great American middle class was growing and prosperity was taken for granted.
I remember a time when corporate CEO's received REASONABLE compensation for their contributions and few questioned why they received what they did.
I remember a time when Americans believed there was nothing they couldn't accomplish if they put their minds to it.
I remember a time prior to the Department of Education when American students were among the best educated in the world.
I remember a time when a 10 or 12 year old could sit on their father's lap and learn to drive the family car.
I remember a time when a boy could go target shooting with his father and neither had to have a permit or license to do so.
I remember a time when common decency and civil language was commonplace. A time when young boys and girls had their mouth cleaned with soap for using filthy words in the presence of civilized people.
I remember a time when Mom was home bringing up the family and instilling values in the children... giving them guidance rather than a disinteresed babysiter or nanny.
I remember a time when government was smaller, when citizens had more liberty, and when we were a fiscally sound nation.
I am truly thankful I was fortunate enough to grow up during the time America experienced its very best years.
I am apprehensive for my children and grandchildren. America needs to find a dawn of rebirth.
Labels:
reminiscing
The Minority Leader Has It Right... But Cites the Wrong Reasons
by: Les Carpenter
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservatism
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
I must admit I actually find myself in agreement with the Minority Leader. However, be assured, it is not at all for the same rationale she is citing.
From POLITICO:
Via: Memeorandum
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservatism
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
I must admit I actually find myself in agreement with the Minority Leader. However, be assured, it is not at all for the same rationale she is citing.
From POLITICO:
Right before the House voted to reject a Democratic debt-ceiling plan, Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi didn’t mince words.
Pelosi pulled out a Star Wars reference on the House floor, saying that Speaker John Boehner “chose to go to the dark side” and court the most conservative members of his conference, rather than work on a bipartisan compromise.
“It’s time for us to end this theater of the absurd,” she said. “It’s time for us to get real.”
The House struck down the Democratic measure, 173-246, in a vote that was designed to fail. Boehner brought the measure up under a special rule that required a two-third majority for passage.
“This thing is not on the level,” Pelosi said before the vote.
Boehner’s office said Saturday morning that the vote on Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid’s legislation would show that the Nevada Democrat’s plan can’t pass the House, dismissing it as a “pointless political exercise.” {Read More}
Via: Memeorandum
Labels:
Pelosi Logic,
Statism at Its Worst
Saturday, July 30, 2011
Proper Goverance and Compromise... Two Concepts Modern Liberals Refuse to Understand
by: Les Carpenter
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservatism
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
What, please tell is irrational, irresponsible, reactionary, a lie, self serving, or devoid of reasoned and therefore sensible thought in the above statement?
Maybe it's just us {real} conservatives that scratch our heads and wonder what it is this generation {actually going back to Woodrow Wilson's generation}of lawmakers fail to understand with respect to fiscally sound economic practices.
While recognizing the Tea Party is ideologically driven in the pursuit of achieving the purity of Jefferson's vision I challenge anyone to refute the wisdom in his words.
In this age compromise is as crucial to resolving problems and achieving consensus among rationally thinking lawmakers as it was in 1789.
What is bothering me, and I assume other rational conservatives as well, is the Tea Party's failure to understand the concept Kenny Rogers expressed in one of his hit songs, 'know when to hold em and know when to fold em.'
Refusing to recognize when it is time to compromise and thus achieve the lion's share of ones objectives is not good judgement. Rather it is the the wisdom of fools.
There is a time to hold em and there is a time to fold em. The effective negotiator knows when it is time to do both. Just as in business so it is in government. Compromise is a necessity. Unless you hold all the cards, including the trump card.
Somehow reason shows the republican Tea Party caucus has neither. An so....
Falling back on history, as I usually find myself doing, consider this...
Perhaps the words of Thomas Jefferson, a brilliant thinker of the age of classical liberalism ought be considered. Both by our elected officials and the general populace as well.
Just sayin...
Via: Memeorandum
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservatism
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
"But with respect to future debt; would it not be wise and just for that nation to declare in the constitution they are forming that neither the legislature, nor the nation itself can validly contract more debt, than they may pay within their own age, or within the term of 19 years." --Thomas Jefferson, letter to James Madison, 1789
What, please tell is irrational, irresponsible, reactionary, a lie, self serving, or devoid of reasoned and therefore sensible thought in the above statement?
Maybe it's just us {real} conservatives that scratch our heads and wonder what it is this generation {actually going back to Woodrow Wilson's generation}of lawmakers fail to understand with respect to fiscally sound economic practices.
While recognizing the Tea Party is ideologically driven in the pursuit of achieving the purity of Jefferson's vision I challenge anyone to refute the wisdom in his words.
In this age compromise is as crucial to resolving problems and achieving consensus among rationally thinking lawmakers as it was in 1789.
What is bothering me, and I assume other rational conservatives as well, is the Tea Party's failure to understand the concept Kenny Rogers expressed in one of his hit songs, 'know when to hold em and know when to fold em.'
Refusing to recognize when it is time to compromise and thus achieve the lion's share of ones objectives is not good judgement. Rather it is the the wisdom of fools.
There is a time to hold em and there is a time to fold em. The effective negotiator knows when it is time to do both. Just as in business so it is in government. Compromise is a necessity. Unless you hold all the cards, including the trump card.
Somehow reason shows the republican Tea Party caucus has neither. An so....
Falling back on history, as I usually find myself doing, consider this...
"I never submitted the whole system of my opinions to the creed of any party of men whatever, in religion, in philosophy, in politics, or in anything else, where I was capable of thinking for myself. Such an addiction is the last degradation of a free and moral agent. If I could not go to heaven but with a party, I would not go there at all." --Thomas Jefferson to Francis Hopkinson, 1789. ME 7:300
Perhaps the words of Thomas Jefferson, a brilliant thinker of the age of classical liberalism ought be considered. Both by our elected officials and the general populace as well.
Just sayin...
Via: Memeorandum
Perhaps the Republians Need to To Return to the Basics...
by:Les Carpenter
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservatsm
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
Could it be the republican party in general, and the republican leadership in particular should read and grow to understand the words of our founders? I believe the republican party and the neo-cons that have infiltrated it have no idea what our founders believed in or what our constitution says anymore than the democratic party does.
Or maybe I'm all wet and the progressives have it just right.
Via: The Patriot Post
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservatsm
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
Could it be the republican party in general, and the republican leadership in particular should read and grow to understand the words of our founders? I believe the republican party and the neo-cons that have infiltrated it have no idea what our founders believed in or what our constitution says anymore than the democratic party does.
"In the midst of these pleasing ideas we should be unfaithful to ourselves if we should ever lose sight of the danger to our liberties if anything partial or extraneous should infect the purity of our free, fair, virtuous, and independent elections." --John Adams, Inaugural Address, 1797
"The value of liberty was thus enhanced in our estimation by the difficulty of its attainment, and the worth of characters appreciated by the trial of adversity." --George Washington, letter to the people of South Carolina, 1790
"The eyes of the world being thus on our Country, it is put the more on its good behavior, and under the greater obligation also, to do justice to the Tree of Liberty by an exhibition of the fine fruits we gather from it." --James Madison, letter to James Monroe, 1824
"Man, once surrendering his reason, has no remaining guard against absurdities the most monstrous, and like a ship without rudder, is the sport of every wind. With such persons, gullibility, which they call faith, takes the helm from the hand of reason and the mind becomes a wreck." --Thomas Jefferson,??letter to James Smith, 1822
"Is it not the glory of the people of America, that whilst they have paid a decent regard to the opinions of former times and other nations, they have not suffered a blind veneration for antiquity, for custom, or for names, to overrule the suggestions of their own good sense, the knowledge of their own situation, and the lessons of their own experience? To this manly spirit, posterity will be indebted for the possession, and the world for the example of the numerous innovations displayed on the American theatre, in favor of private rights and public happiness." --James Madison, Federalist No. 14, 1787
"The steady character of our countrymen is a rock to which we may safely moor; and notwithstanding the efforts of the papers to disseminate early discontents, I expect that a just, dispassionate and steady conduct, will at length rally to a proper system the great body of our country. Unequivocal in principle, reasonable in manner, we shall be able I hope to do a great deal of good to the cause of freedom & harmony." --Thomas Jefferson,??letter to Elbridge Gerry, 1801
Or maybe I'm all wet and the progressives have it just right.
Via: The Patriot Post
Labels:
The Founders and Reason
Maxine Waters 2004
"We were trying to fix something that wasn't broke. Mr. Chairman, we DO NOT have a crisis at Freddie Mac and, in particular, at Fannie Mae, under the outstanding leadership of Mr. Frank Raines."............I'm sorry, folks, but this woman doesn't deserve to be anywhere near the U.S. capitol. She took what was obviously an important hearing and turned it into a God damned mockery (replete with playing the race-card). The way that I see it, this lady couldn't get elected dog-catcher in any other district in the country....Again, I'm sorry.
For Those Who Think That the Country Needs Another "FDR Type Progressive" as President
THIS............“We have tried spending money. We are spending more than we have ever spent before and it does not work. And I have just one interest, and if I am wrong...somebody else can have my job. I want to see this country prosperous. I want to see people get a job. I want to see people get enough to eat. We have never made good on our promises. I say after eight years of this Administration we have just as much unemployment as when we started. … And an enormous debt to boot."............Henry Morgenthau, Jr. FDR's Secretary of the Treasury to his fellow Democrats on the House Ways and Means Committee May 9th 1939
Thursday, July 28, 2011
As the Debt Ceiling Drama Continues

by: Les Carpenter
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservatism
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
Interesting metaphors as Rand Paul weighs in.
POLITCO -The “Lord of the Rings” metaphors crept into the debt-limit fight on Thursday, as tea-party heroes fired back at Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) who mocked members of the conservative grassroots movement as “tea-party hobbits.”
“I’d rather be a hobbit than a troll,” freshman Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.) said on a conference call when asked by POLITICO about McCain’s remarks. “I think in reading the books, the hobbits were the heroes. They overcame great obstacles, and I think I’d rather be a hobbit than a troll.” {Continue Reading}
Labels:
Deficits/Debt Ceiling and LOTR
by: Les Carpenter
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservatism
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
Too funny! Yet, sadly prophetic methinks.
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservatism
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
Too funny! Yet, sadly prophetic methinks.
Labels:
Debt Ceiling Deal Closer
A Looney Tune Lefty...
by: Les Carpenter
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Coservatism
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
Representative Jerrold Nadler (D-N.Y.) has proclaimed we don't have a deficit problem, rather we have an unemployment problem. Actually we have both. If unemployment were to miraculously return to 5% of course the added tax "revenue" would lessen the severity of our deficit problem. But we would still have a deficit problem.
Nadler's recipe for correcting the unemployment problem? You probably guessed it. More spending and more taxes.
In his words...
Video of the loon.
This dude is a few cards short of a full deck.
Read the full article here.
More at Yid With Lid.
Via: Memeorandum
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Coservatism
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
Representative Jerrold Nadler (D-N.Y.) has proclaimed we don't have a deficit problem, rather we have an unemployment problem. Actually we have both. If unemployment were to miraculously return to 5% of course the added tax "revenue" would lessen the severity of our deficit problem. But we would still have a deficit problem.
Nadler's recipe for correcting the unemployment problem? You probably guessed it. More spending and more taxes.
In his words...
"When we talk about, ‘we’ve got a budget deficit crisis’ no we don’t. We have a tax crisis, we have a crisis that we’re not taxing properly and we have a recession and an unemployment crisis."
"The way to get out of that unemployment crisis is to spend money on more food stamps and on aid to states and local governments so they don’t lay off people...
Video of the loon.
This dude is a few cards short of a full deck.
Read the full article here.
More at Yid With Lid.
Via: Memeorandum
Labels:
Deficits and Unemploymnt,
Rep. Nadler
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
A National Melodrama and Comic Relief
by: Les Carpenter
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservativism
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
h/t: Patriot Humor
Given the current melodrama, or fiasco if you prefer, playing out between the President and Congress over deficit reduction, the budget, and the debt ceiling this video certainly gives welcome comic relief.
However, to be truthful there should be a similar video of the Speaker, and or Tea Party representatives depicted as a huge elephant with a deeper "voice" speaking the same unintelligible language.
Is it any wonder that the American people are dismayed at the performance of the Congress? I new Rasmussen poll shows Congress has hit a new low, with only 6% of likely voters believing Congress is doing a good job.
As Michel A. Walsh of the New York Post points out The President shares some responsibility with respect to said fiasco.
It is beginning to appear the nation is the grip of a lack of leadership.
Comic relief lasts only so long.
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservativism
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
h/t: Patriot Humor
Given the current melodrama, or fiasco if you prefer, playing out between the President and Congress over deficit reduction, the budget, and the debt ceiling this video certainly gives welcome comic relief.
However, to be truthful there should be a similar video of the Speaker, and or Tea Party representatives depicted as a huge elephant with a deeper "voice" speaking the same unintelligible language.
Is it any wonder that the American people are dismayed at the performance of the Congress? I new Rasmussen poll shows Congress has hit a new low, with only 6% of likely voters believing Congress is doing a good job.
As Michel A. Walsh of the New York Post points out The President shares some responsibility with respect to said fiasco.
It is beginning to appear the nation is the grip of a lack of leadership.
Comic relief lasts only so long.
Labels:
and Comic Relief,
Boehner,
Obama,
The Congress
Monday, July 25, 2011
The (Strong) Medicine Man
I just thought of another "hero". And this one, folks, IS a politician; former New York City mayor, Ed Koch. Koch, at least in my estimation, was EXACTLY what New York City needed in 1977. At a time when the city had such things as "snow days", when it paid its huge municipal workforce to stay home when it snowed and paid those that did come in time and a half, at a time when other politicians such as Mario Cuomo, Bella Abzug, and incumbent Mayor Abe Beam gave mealy-mouthed responses to the 1977 power outage rioting, Mr. Koch came along and majorly kicked some butt. Now, did this fellow eventually wear out his welcome/deserve to be "retired"? Sure, probably (you could say that about most U.S. politicians, no?). But for at least a fairly large chunk of his tenure, Ed Koch was a pretty damn good mayor, I think.
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Thoughts Worth Considering
by: Les Carpenter
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservatism
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
What you are about to read are the views of a rational and concerned citizen from the State of Michigan. Whether he is a conservative or a liberal we do not know with certainty. What we do know is his concerns, and questions, are valid. They demand honest, thorough, and objective consideration.
America, the nation built on the principles of liberty, and the value of opportunity is at a crossroad today. The choices we make with respect to the following will determine our future as a nation.
Ken Huber, the author of the following editorial lives in Tawas City, Michigan. The editorial was originally published in June of 2010 and ran in the Fort Worth Christianity & Culture Examiner in July of 2010.
The likelihood the extreme progressive element of our society attacking this man's perspective is great. Perhaps that is a significant reason for the societal problems America faces today.
Objectivity and reason ought play a central role in determining our nation and it's peoples course. Mr. Huber effectively put forth valid issues all Americans, regardless of political persuasion should give serious consideration to.
The thoughts of all are welcome. Without objective dialogue we shall never solve our differences, let alone our mutual problems.
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservatism
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
What you are about to read are the views of a rational and concerned citizen from the State of Michigan. Whether he is a conservative or a liberal we do not know with certainty. What we do know is his concerns, and questions, are valid. They demand honest, thorough, and objective consideration.
America, the nation built on the principles of liberty, and the value of opportunity is at a crossroad today. The choices we make with respect to the following will determine our future as a nation.
Ken Huber, the author of the following editorial lives in Tawas City, Michigan. The editorial was originally published in June of 2010 and ran in the Fort Worth Christianity & Culture Examiner in July of 2010.
The likelihood the extreme progressive element of our society attacking this man's perspective is great. Perhaps that is a significant reason for the societal problems America faces today.
Objectivity and reason ought play a central role in determining our nation and it's peoples course. Mr. Huber effectively put forth valid issues all Americans, regardless of political persuasion should give serious consideration to.
Editor,
Has America become the land of special interest and home of the double standard?
Lets see: if we lie to the Congress, it's a felony and if the Congress lies to us its just politics; if we dislike a black person, we're racist and if a black person dislikes whites, its their 1st Amendment right; the government spends millions to rehabilitate criminals and they do almost nothing for the victims; in public schools you can teach that homosexuality is OK, but you better not use the word God in the process; you can kill an unborn child, but it is wrong to execute a mass murderer; we don't burn books in America, we now rewrite them; we got rid of communist and socialist threats by renaming them progressive; we are unable to close our border with Mexico, but have no problem protecting the 38th parallel in Korea; if you protest against President Obama's policies you're a terrorist, but if you burned an American flag or George Bush in effigy it was your 1st Amendment right.
You can have pornography on TV or the internet, but you better not put a nativity scene in a public park during Christmas; we have eliminated all criminals in America, they are now called sick people; we can use a human fetus for medical research, but it is wrong to use an animal.
We take money from those who work hard for it and give it to those who don't want to work; we all support the Constitution, but only when it supports our political ideology; we still have freedom of speech, but only if we are being politically correct; parenting has been replaced with Ritalin and video games; the land of opportunity is now the land of hand outs; the similarity between Hurricane Katrina and the gulf oil spill is that neither president did anything to help.
And how do we handle a major crisis today? The government appoints a committee to determine who's at fault, then threatens them, passes a law, raises our taxes; tells us the problem is solved so they can get back to their reelection campaign.
What has happened to the land of the free and home of the brave?
- Ken Huber
Tawas City
The thoughts of all are welcome. Without objective dialogue we shall never solve our differences, let alone our mutual problems.
The Day The Music Died, Or When America Turned From Leadership In Space Exploration
by: Les Carpenter
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservatism
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
While checking in at the Left Coast Rebel, a site I am a contributor to, I caught a fabulous post by Proof Positive on our unfortunate decision to back away from space exploration.
The post is one that conservatives and liberals ought to be able to agree on.
Read the rest here and here.
Indeed it is a sad development. The United States of America abandoning a key leadership position in space exploration.
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservatism
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
While checking in at the Left Coast Rebel, a site I am a contributor to, I caught a fabulous post by Proof Positive on our unfortunate decision to back away from space exploration.
The post is one that conservatives and liberals ought to be able to agree on.
I wasn't planning on writing about this today, but the fading glory of our space program moves me to write. In 1977, Jerry Pournelle wrote about the "2007 expedition to Ceres". The old Buck Rogers TV show spoke of the "last of NASA's deep space probes in 1987". The last?? when was the first???
Robert Heinlein spoke of the expectation that many of us had growing up of the inevitability of space travel. In 1949, he wrote in the preface to "The Man Who Sold the Moon":
Read the rest here and here.
Indeed it is a sad development. The United States of America abandoning a key leadership position in space exploration.
Saturday, July 23, 2011
Perhaps the Republicans Need to Return to the Basics...
by:Les Carpenter
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservatsm
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
Could it be the republican party in general, and the republican leadership in particular should read and grow to understand the words of our founders? I believe the republican party and the neo-cons that have infiltrated it have no idea what our founders believed in or what our constitution says anymore than the democratic party and it's progressives do.
Or maybe I'm all wet and the progressives have it just right. I can't figure because even when a conservative acknowledges the validity of some of their talking points they choose to equivocate and avoid all compromise.
Via: The Patriot Post
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservatsm
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
Could it be the republican party in general, and the republican leadership in particular should read and grow to understand the words of our founders? I believe the republican party and the neo-cons that have infiltrated it have no idea what our founders believed in or what our constitution says anymore than the democratic party and it's progressives do.
"In the midst of these pleasing ideas we should be unfaithful to ourselves if we should ever lose sight of the danger to our liberties if anything partial or extraneous should infect the purity of our free, fair, virtuous, and independent elections." --John Adams, Inaugural Address, 1797
"The value of liberty was thus enhanced in our estimation by the difficulty of its attainment, and the worth of characters appreciated by the trial of adversity." --George Washington, letter to the people of South Carolina, 1790
"The eyes of the world being thus on our Country, it is put the more on its good behavior, and under the greater obligation also, to do justice to the Tree of Liberty by an exhibition of the fine fruits we gather from it." --James Madison, letter to James Monroe, 1824
"Man, once surrendering his reason, has no remaining guard against absurdities the most monstrous, and like a ship without rudder, is the sport of every wind. With such persons, gullibility, which they call faith, takes the helm from the hand of reason and the mind becomes a wreck." --Thomas Jefferson,??letter to James Smith, 1822
"Is it not the glory of the people of America, that whilst they have paid a decent regard to the opinions of former times and other nations, they have not suffered a blind veneration for antiquity, for custom, or for names, to overrule the suggestions of their own good sense, the knowledge of their own situation, and the lessons of their own experience? To this manly spirit, posterity will be indebted for the possession, and the world for the example of the numerous innovations displayed on the American theatre, in favor of private rights and public happiness." --James Madison, Federalist No. 14, 1787
"The steady character of our countrymen is a rock to which we may safely moor; and notwithstanding the efforts of the papers to disseminate early discontents, I expect that a just, dispassionate and steady conduct, will at length rally to a proper system the great body of our country. Unequivocal in principle, reasonable in manner, we shall be able I hope to do a great deal of good to the cause of freedom & harmony." --Thomas Jefferson,??letter to Elbridge Gerry, 1801
Or maybe I'm all wet and the progressives have it just right. I can't figure because even when a conservative acknowledges the validity of some of their talking points they choose to equivocate and avoid all compromise.
Via: The Patriot Post
Labels:
The Founders and Reason
Oh, The Melodrama Of It All....
by: Les Carpenter
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservatism
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
I am not at all sure just what the h*ll the Speaker really said. I do know that the 3-1 ratio of spending cuts to revenue increase the President has offered is a pretty substantial cut in spending. But what does an independent fiscal conservative know?
In my mind the GOP is shooting itself squarely in the foot. When all is said and done it is likely the conservatives will go home with less than they might have secured for the American people. They will ultimately pay the political price.
When ideology precludes rational thought process everybody loses. The republicans have shown themselves to be intransigent and only interested in pursuing their ideological agenda. They do so at their own peril.
Rational Nation USA has many ideological and philosophical differences with the President. Given that the site also realizes that the President, at the end of the day is coming across to the majority of the American people as the reasonable and rational negotiator. The one willing to compromise.
However, the republicans have Norquist, the ever brilliant {so called} strategist advising them to hold fast, to obstruct the deal, to hold out for the ultimate kill. I wonder how the American people, the markets, and our global creditors will find the results of this strategy if the USA ultimately defaults on its obligations.
There is a time for debate. A time for fierce discussion of political differences. A time for brinkmanship. Then there is a time for devising workable solutions for common problems the nations faces.
I leave the foregoing dilemma to the readership to decide exactly what time it may be.
Speaker Boehner's press conference.
More at Memeorandum here, here, here and here.
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservatism
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
I am not at all sure just what the h*ll the Speaker really said. I do know that the 3-1 ratio of spending cuts to revenue increase the President has offered is a pretty substantial cut in spending. But what does an independent fiscal conservative know?
In my mind the GOP is shooting itself squarely in the foot. When all is said and done it is likely the conservatives will go home with less than they might have secured for the American people. They will ultimately pay the political price.
When ideology precludes rational thought process everybody loses. The republicans have shown themselves to be intransigent and only interested in pursuing their ideological agenda. They do so at their own peril.
Rational Nation USA has many ideological and philosophical differences with the President. Given that the site also realizes that the President, at the end of the day is coming across to the majority of the American people as the reasonable and rational negotiator. The one willing to compromise.
However, the republicans have Norquist, the ever brilliant {so called} strategist advising them to hold fast, to obstruct the deal, to hold out for the ultimate kill. I wonder how the American people, the markets, and our global creditors will find the results of this strategy if the USA ultimately defaults on its obligations.
There is a time for debate. A time for fierce discussion of political differences. A time for brinkmanship. Then there is a time for devising workable solutions for common problems the nations faces.
I leave the foregoing dilemma to the readership to decide exactly what time it may be.
Speaker Boehner's press conference.
More at Memeorandum here, here, here and here.
Pew Foundation Poll... Repubs Gaining Among Whites
by: Les Carpenter
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservatism
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
Republicans gain ground among young white voters and the poor.
Of course we can anticipate the shrill screeching of liberals... Raaaaacism.
Via: Memeorandum
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservatism
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
Republicans gain ground among young white voters and the poor.
ABC News - New analysis by Pew Foundation on voter identification finds that, not surprisingly, “the electorate’s partisan affiliations have shifted significantly since Obama won office nearly three years ago.”
One of the most notable shifts is the GOP gain among white voters, most specifically “the young and poor.”
“A seven-point Democratic advantage among whites under age 30 three years ago has turned into an 11-point GOP advantage today. And a 15-point Democratic advantage among whites earning less than $30,000 annually has swung to a slim four-point Republican edge today.”
The last time that Republicans had this level of support among young white voters was 2002-2004, which was, of course, the wake of the 9/11 attacks.
The study also suggests that more voters than ever (34 percent) identify themselves as Independent. Just 28 percent say they are Republican. Another 34 percent say they identify as Democrat.
Of course we can anticipate the shrill screeching of liberals... Raaaaacism.
Via: Memeorandum
Labels:
Pew Poll
Ron Paul Would Run Competively Against Obama
by: Les Carpenter
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservatism
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
Ron Paul, arguably one of the most knowledgeable congressman when it comes to a proper understanding of the constitution, potentially could unseat Obama in 2012.
Rasmussen Reports:
Unfortunately the two biggest hurdles standing in the way of Rep. Ron Paul receiving the republican nomination is the media and the power elite within the republican party.
It's a shame really. Ron Paul is pigeonholed by the media and the power elite because he threatens business as usual. Ron Paul is a man that would bring positive change to a dysfunctional Washington.
More at Memeorandum
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservatism
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
Ron Paul, arguably one of the most knowledgeable congressman when it comes to a proper understanding of the constitution, potentially could unseat Obama in 2012.
Rasmussen Reports:
Congressman Ron Paul may be a long shot to win the Republican presidential nomination, but he runs competitively with President Obama right now.
The latest Rasmussen Reports national telephone survey of Likely Voters shows Paul picking up 37% of the vote, while the president earns 41%. The Texas congressman joins Mitt Romney, Michelle Bachmann, and Rick Perry as candidates within hailing distance of the president at this time.
Rudy Giuliani is another potential candidate who is considered a long shot for the nomination but is competitive with the president. The former mayor of New York City trails Obama by five, 44% to 39%.
But the real story in the numbers is that the president continues to earn between 41% and 49% of the vote no matter which Republican is mentioned as a potential opponent. This suggests that the race remains a referendum on the incumbent more than anything else. {Read Full Report}
Unfortunately the two biggest hurdles standing in the way of Rep. Ron Paul receiving the republican nomination is the media and the power elite within the republican party.
It's a shame really. Ron Paul is pigeonholed by the media and the power elite because he threatens business as usual. Ron Paul is a man that would bring positive change to a dysfunctional Washington.
More at Memeorandum
Labels:
Ron Paul 2012
Friday, July 22, 2011
A Nation in Crises...
by: Les Carpenter
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservatism
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
The Constitution of the United States of America. Important to many, ignored and or misinterpreted by many as well. There are those who are strict constructionist who believe in following the letter of the document. And there are those who believe it is a living document and must change to conform to the changing times.
There is validity in both positions. Although as an independent conservative, and one who places great stock in history and what it can teach us, I tend to side with the strict constructionists more often than not.
It is becoming increasingly clear that our nation has become so polarized that ideology takes precedent over reason and common sense. It is clear that the fringe element of the the liberal democratic party and the fringe element of the conservative republican party are controlling the debate.
It is any wonder that our governmemnt, as bad as it has become, is unable to draw logical and reasoned conclusions from valid data and make appropriate decisions that will resolve our national crises?
Call this a rant of a drunk old senior citizen like TAO of Democracy Central recently did in a comment stream at Truth 101 if you like. But the reality is we are a nation in trouble. Both fiscally and ethically. No matter how much we equivocate, or attempt to avoid the truth, it remains that both liberals, democrats, conservatives, republicans, and every shade in between has a shared responsibility for our current situation.
Therefore, does it not stand to reason we have a shared responsibility to find reasonable and workable solutions to our shared problems?
The deficit problem will not go away by ignoring it. It is the result of many things, but the bottom line is we have spent more than we have. We have been doing so for a very long time.
The national obligations, both to our people and our foreign creditors will not go away by themselves. Not raising the debt limit and defaulting on our "past obligations", IE: money previously borrowed and already spent, will not resolve our crises.
The answer seems fairly simple. We must significantly cut spending, sacred cows {such a the MIC} must to be on the chopping block, we must reform and simplify the tax code {including lowering the marginal tax rates, reducing the number and closing loopholes}, we must eliminate regulations that make us non competitive, we must encourage and give business incentives to stay in the USA, and we must reform entitlements.
We must also be willing to accept that even given three or four trillion in cuts over ten years we may need to accept that a revenue increase is necessary and inevitable.
Or we could continue on as we have. And we can join the likes of Greece, Portugal, and other nations that find themselves in very unenviable circumstances.
The choices are ours.
Via: Memeorandum here, here, here, here, here, and here
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservatism
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
The Constitution of the United States of America. Important to many, ignored and or misinterpreted by many as well. There are those who are strict constructionist who believe in following the letter of the document. And there are those who believe it is a living document and must change to conform to the changing times.
There is validity in both positions. Although as an independent conservative, and one who places great stock in history and what it can teach us, I tend to side with the strict constructionists more often than not.
It is becoming increasingly clear that our nation has become so polarized that ideology takes precedent over reason and common sense. It is clear that the fringe element of the the liberal democratic party and the fringe element of the conservative republican party are controlling the debate.
It is any wonder that our governmemnt, as bad as it has become, is unable to draw logical and reasoned conclusions from valid data and make appropriate decisions that will resolve our national crises?
Call this a rant of a drunk old senior citizen like TAO of Democracy Central recently did in a comment stream at Truth 101 if you like. But the reality is we are a nation in trouble. Both fiscally and ethically. No matter how much we equivocate, or attempt to avoid the truth, it remains that both liberals, democrats, conservatives, republicans, and every shade in between has a shared responsibility for our current situation.
Therefore, does it not stand to reason we have a shared responsibility to find reasonable and workable solutions to our shared problems?
The deficit problem will not go away by ignoring it. It is the result of many things, but the bottom line is we have spent more than we have. We have been doing so for a very long time.
The national obligations, both to our people and our foreign creditors will not go away by themselves. Not raising the debt limit and defaulting on our "past obligations", IE: money previously borrowed and already spent, will not resolve our crises.
The answer seems fairly simple. We must significantly cut spending, sacred cows {such a the MIC} must to be on the chopping block, we must reform and simplify the tax code {including lowering the marginal tax rates, reducing the number and closing loopholes}, we must eliminate regulations that make us non competitive, we must encourage and give business incentives to stay in the USA, and we must reform entitlements.
We must also be willing to accept that even given three or four trillion in cuts over ten years we may need to accept that a revenue increase is necessary and inevitable.
Or we could continue on as we have. And we can join the likes of Greece, Portugal, and other nations that find themselves in very unenviable circumstances.
The choices are ours.
Via: Memeorandum here, here, here, here, here, and here
Thursday, July 21, 2011
![]() |
Topos Graphics |
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservatism
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
The following article makes many valid arguments. Whether one agrees or disagrees with the article's conclusions it is worth the read. Deserving of rational thought by all.
From the Atlantic:
Angry and frustrated, American voters went to the polls in November 2010 to “take back” their country. Just as they had done in 2008. And 2006. And repeatedly for decades, whether it was Republicans or Democrats from whom they were taking the country back. No matter who was put in charge, things didn’t get better. They won’t this time, either; spending levels may go down, taxes may go up, budgets will change, but American government will go on the way it has, not as a collective enterprise but as a battle between warring tribes.
If we are truly a democracy—if voters get to size up candidates for a public office and choose the one they want—why don’t the elections seem to change anything? Because we elect our leaders, and they then govern, in a system that makes cooperation almost impossible and incivility nearly inevitable, a system in which the campaign season never ends and the struggle for party advantage trumps all other considerations. When Democrat Nancy Pelosi became speaker of the House, the leader of the lawmaking branch of government, she said her priority was to … elect more Democrats. After Republican victories in 2010, the Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell said his goal was to … prevent the Democratic president’s reelection. With the country at war and the economy in recession, our government leaders’ first thoughts have been of party advantage.
This is not an accident. Ours is a system focused not on collective problem-solving but on a struggle for power between two private organizations. Party activists control access to the ballot through closed party primaries and conventions; partisan leaders design congressional districts. Once elected to Congress, our representatives are divided into warring camps. Partisans decide what bills to take up, what witnesses to hear, what amendments to allow.
Many Americans assume that’s just how democracy works, that this is how it’s always been, that it’s the system the Founders created. But what we have today is a far cry from what the Founders intended. George Washington and James Madison both warned of the dangers posed by political parties. {Continue Reading}
via: Memeorandum
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
The Possibility of a Rational Agreement...
by: Les Carpenter
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservatism
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
From the Los Angeles Times...
Finding solutions to major problems may be a possibility after all. That is if the ideologically pure "accept no compromise" republicans determine to be objective and reasonable. Were it not for the "Gang of Six", with Coburn leading the way, I would hold out little hope that objective reasoning might prevail.
The President has signaled he is willing to consider a short term agreement to raising the debt ceiling if lawmakers were closing in on an agreement to significantly reduce the deficit.
As this site has readily maintained finding a solution so the nation doesn't default on its obligations should be priority one. And it ought to be bipartisan.
As Rational Nation USA follows the deficit reduction/debt ceiling connection it is becoming increasingly apparent that ideology has overtaken reason. Of course this is to the detriment of political dialogue, and has affected lawmakers ability to make objective decisions.
The good news is we are still talking about our differences. After all, we must commit to abridging our differences and enact legislation that will correct our fiscal shortcomings. It won't be easy, however it can be done.
The rest of the Los Angeles Times article...
Republicans and conservatives have been presented a once in a lifetime opportunity to effect real change. In the process we have the golden opportunity to restore real fiscal sanity and discipline.
Whether fiscal conservatives will be successful remains anybody's guess.
Maybe it's about time we trashed Norquist and begin using reason and objectivity.
Just saying...
Via: Memeorandum
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservatism
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
From the Los Angeles Times...
The White House signaled Wednesday that President Obama could accept a short-term deal to raise the debt ceiling, but only if it appeared lawmakers were close to an agreement on a significant deficit reduction plan.
Finding solutions to major problems may be a possibility after all. That is if the ideologically pure "accept no compromise" republicans determine to be objective and reasonable. Were it not for the "Gang of Six", with Coburn leading the way, I would hold out little hope that objective reasoning might prevail.
The President has signaled he is willing to consider a short term agreement to raising the debt ceiling if lawmakers were closing in on an agreement to significantly reduce the deficit.
As this site has readily maintained finding a solution so the nation doesn't default on its obligations should be priority one. And it ought to be bipartisan.
As Rational Nation USA follows the deficit reduction/debt ceiling connection it is becoming increasingly apparent that ideology has overtaken reason. Of course this is to the detriment of political dialogue, and has affected lawmakers ability to make objective decisions.
The good news is we are still talking about our differences. After all, we must commit to abridging our differences and enact legislation that will correct our fiscal shortcomings. It won't be easy, however it can be done.
The rest of the Los Angeles Times article...
The hope of such a "grand bargain" was revived Tuesday by the so-called Gang of Six senators, who outlined a deal that would achieve nearly $4 trillion in deficit reduction in the next decade through spending cuts, entitlement reform and an overhaul of the tax code.
But Congress must act to raise the debt ceiling by Aug. 2, and the plan discussed in the Senate Tuesday was just a framework, not specific legislation that could take weeks to move through Congress.
Obama has repeatedly called for a debt limit increase that would carry the government through to 2013, arguing that the political environment for another increase would only grow more challenging with both the White House and Congress at stake in 2012.
Press secretary Jay Carney said at his daily briefing Wednesday that the president still believes that. But, "if both sides agree to something significant, we will support the measures needed to finalize the details of that."
"We need to be sure that that fail-safe option is there, even as we pursue aggressively the possibility of doing something bigger," Carney told reporters.
A plan based on a legislative maneuver devised by Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell may be that fail-safe option, or perhaps it would be a simple extension for a matter of weeks or months that would allow time for the Gang of Six plan to move through. It is unclear, though, which if any plan could pass both the Democratic-controlled Senate and Republican-led House.
Obama reached out Tuesday night to House Speaker John Boehner, Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid and McConnell. Both parties' leadership will be coming to the White House Wednesday for separate meetings.
Republicans and conservatives have been presented a once in a lifetime opportunity to effect real change. In the process we have the golden opportunity to restore real fiscal sanity and discipline.
Whether fiscal conservatives will be successful remains anybody's guess.
Maybe it's about time we trashed Norquist and begin using reason and objectivity.
Just saying...
Via: Memeorandum
Labels:
d The Debt Ceiling,
The Deficit,
The National Debt
Wasserman Schultz a Characterless Moonbat...
by: Les Carpenter
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservatism
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
Offhand I cannot think of anyone who personifies a leftist moonbat more than Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL). President Obama's pick to chair the DNC proves once again she is a total whack case. She took the house floor to make groundless accusations with respect the Honorable Rep. Allan West (R-FL). Her main purpose, to scare the heck out of senior citizens.
Video of the miscreant.
Wasserman Schultz lacked the character to put on her little sideshow in West's presence, thus denying him the opportunity for a floor rebuttal.
Appropriately and quite justifiably Rep. West fired off a terse e-mail that cut to the chase with respect to her character.
All one can say is Bravo Representative West. Keep on pressing on!
Cross posted to the Left Coast Rebel
PS: This man is most definitely presidential timber.
Via: Memorandum
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservatism
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
Offhand I cannot think of anyone who personifies a leftist moonbat more than Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL). President Obama's pick to chair the DNC proves once again she is a total whack case. She took the house floor to make groundless accusations with respect the Honorable Rep. Allan West (R-FL). Her main purpose, to scare the heck out of senior citizens.
Video of the miscreant.
Wasserman Schultz lacked the character to put on her little sideshow in West's presence, thus denying him the opportunity for a floor rebuttal.
Appropriately and quite justifiably Rep. West fired off a terse e-mail that cut to the chase with respect to her character.
From: Z112 West, Allen
Sent: Tuesday, July 19, 2011 04:48 PM
To: Wasserman Schultz, Debbie
Cc: McCarthy, Kevin; Blyth, Jonathan; Pelosi, Nancy; Cantor, Eric
Subject: Unprofessional and Inappropriate Sophomoric Behavior from Wasserman-Schultz
Look, Debbie, I understand that after I departed the House floor you directed your floor speech comments directly towards me. Let me make myself perfectly clear, you want a personal fight, I am happy to oblige. You are the most vile, unprofessional ,and despicable member of the US House of Representatives. If you have something to say to me, stop being a coward and say it to my face, otherwise, shut the heck up. Focus on your own congressional district!
I am bringing your actions today to our Majority Leader and Majority Whip and from this time forward, understand that I shall defend myself forthright against your heinous characterless behavior……which dates back to the disgusting protest you ordered at my campaign hqs, October 2010 in Deerfield Beach.
You have proven repeatedly that you are not a Lady, therefore, shall not be afforded due respect from me!
Steadfast and Loyal
Congressman Allen B West (R-FL)
All one can say is Bravo Representative West. Keep on pressing on!
Cross posted to the Left Coast Rebel
PS: This man is most definitely presidential timber.
Via: Memorandum
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Gang of Six Deficit Reduction Plan Gaining Momentum...
by: Les Carpenter
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservatism
Liberty -vs - Tyranny
Well, nobody likes the idea of raising taxes, but revamping the tax code, which is rife with loopholes, and then lowering the marginal rates and reducing the number of tax brackets may not be such a bad idea.
The 'Gang of Six" plan to reduce the debt through spending cuts coupled with increasing revenues over the next decade just might have merit.
It's worth considering anyway.
From the Associated Press.
This plan enacted into law, combined with raising the current debt ceiling so the nation can meet it's outstanding obligations, might just put us on the path to fiscal sanity once again. Isn't it about time we started to think outside the box?
Being saddled with unmanageable debt and unable to meet your obligations can be one the worst kinds of tyranny.
Maintaining a balanced budget and keeping obligations at a manageable level provides untold liberty.
Just sayin...
Via: Memeorandum
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservatism
Liberty -vs - Tyranny
Well, nobody likes the idea of raising taxes, but revamping the tax code, which is rife with loopholes, and then lowering the marginal rates and reducing the number of tax brackets may not be such a bad idea.
The 'Gang of Six" plan to reduce the debt through spending cuts coupled with increasing revenues over the next decade just might have merit.
It's worth considering anyway.
From the Associated Press.
WASHINGTON (AP) — Leaders of a bipartisan "Gang of Six" senators said Tuesday that they've reached agreement on a major plan to cut the deficit by more than $4 trillion over the coming decade in what could be a bold entry into a debate on the deficit long bogged-down by bitter partisanship.
More than $1 trillion of the deficit cuts would come from tax increases reaped as Congress overhauls the loophole-choked U.S. tax code. It would also repeal a long-term health care program established under the last year's health overhaul and force up to $500 billion in cuts from federal health care programs over the upcoming decade, according to documents provided to senators at a Tuesday morning meeting but not publicly released.
"The reaction was extremely positive," said Budget Committee Chairman Kent Conrad, D-N.D.
With only two weeks for Congress and President Barack Obama to reach a deal to raise the government's debt ceiling, it was unclear how much support the Gang of Six's proposal could muster. Obama called it a "very significant step" and said it offered the potential for a bipartisan consensus. He urged congressional leaders to move on it swiftly.
The Gang of Six plan is separate from a politically freighted effort to lift the nation's borrowing cap and avoid a first-ever default on U.S. obligations. President Barack Obama and Capitol Hill Republicans, however, have failed to reach an accord on what kind of spending cuts to pair with any increase in the borrowing cap as the government teeters toward a possible default in two weeks.
The group's effort was sealed after Oklahoma Republican Tom Coburn rejoined the group after winning concessions on additional cuts to costly federal health care programs. Coburn left the group in May, which dealt it a big setback and delayed an agreement since the two other GOP members of the group — Mike Crapo of Idaho and Saxby Chambliss of Georgia — appeared reluctant to release the plan without Coburn's backing as well.
The group has been laboring for months in an up-and-down effort to reach an agreement that largely mirrors the work of President Barack Obama's fiscal panel, which proposed $4 trillion in cuts over a decade. The fiscal commission plan won positive reviews from many lawmakers but its plan failed to win a vote in Congress.
The Gang of Six plan calls for an immediate $500 billion "down payment" on cutting the deficit as the starting point toward cuts of more than $4 trillion over the coming decade that would be finalized in a second piece of legislation. Most of that savings would come from four years of caps imposed on the day-to-day budgets of cabinet agencies set by the annual appropriations bills. It would also curb the growth of Social Security benefits by moving to a lower inflation adjustment for annual cost-of-living updates. {Continue Reading}
This plan enacted into law, combined with raising the current debt ceiling so the nation can meet it's outstanding obligations, might just put us on the path to fiscal sanity once again. Isn't it about time we started to think outside the box?
Being saddled with unmanageable debt and unable to meet your obligations can be one the worst kinds of tyranny.
Maintaining a balanced budget and keeping obligations at a manageable level provides untold liberty.
Just sayin...
Via: Memeorandum
Obama Threatens Veto of Cut, Cap, and Balance in Politics as Usual
by: Les Carpenter
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservatism
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
The President, in a display of executive power and arrogance, threatened Monday to veto the republican's Cut, Cap, and Balance initiative should it arrive on his desk. Lets dispense with all the hyperbole and vitriol and address the issue objectively.
It is becoming increasingly clear republicans and the President are engaged in a great test of wills. There is little question but what both sides have decided to play hardball, and neither side at this point appears to be able, or willing to negotiate a reasonable resolution to the impasse. As this is being written it appears the President is holding the greatest number of cards.
As the nation waits, the people cannot help but wonder why the supposedly intelligent and mature individuals they elected to represent them are unable {or unwilling} to find a way to balance the budget, honor our obligations, and find a way to put our feet on a course that leads our nation back to fiscal sanity and shared prosperity.
As a fiscal conservative the concept of cutting spending, capping future spending at a reasonable percent of GDP (19.9% is a reasonable number), and passing a balanced budget amendment is appealing and desirable. We also need to encourage business growth here at home, give companies the incentive to invest and grow their businesses {elimination of corporate income taxes is a good place to start} so as business confidence grows they begin putting people back to work.
The Hill reporting on the President's veto threat with accompanying comments by yours truly.
Given that our government has demonstrated its inability to act responsibly and live within its means it makes perfedct sense to shackel the congresses ability to over promise and over spend. Had the congress always been responsible, remember the President can only spend that which has been approved by the house of representatives, I would whole heartedly buy the White Hiuse argument.
While I agree the debt ceiling must be raised to avoid default, effective mechanism must be in place to avoid a continuation of the spending habits of the last 50 years. They need to be in place before we once again raise the ceiling because if effective mechanisms are not in place we will no doubt be revisiting the present drama all over again.
This is more hyperbole, simple scare tactics meant for those who will choose not to think. A balanced budget amendment would say nothing as to how revenues are to be spent. It would simply require congress to make decisions, admitedly sometimes very tough ones, as to where revenues would be directed and require the budget to be balanced at the end of the day.
In fairness I must say the Congress is responsible for the budget and it does control the purse strings. It's right in the Constution, always has been. So, I guess the Congress should have put the breaks on spending years ago.
For the American people getting nothing accomplished and our nation defaulting on its obligations puts all of Washington on the inaction list. However, given the President's willingness to accept the 3 for 1 deal I'm betting at the end of the day congressional republicans will have the most egg on their faces and likely will be out of a job soon.
More scare tactics from the administration. There exists much pork in the budget, we all know it. Perhaps the nation ought to read Ron Paul's book and consider his recommendations. I have, they are bold, and they are good.
Perhaps, just maybe, it is time for this 235 year old republic to decide that it 1) can no longer afford to be the world's candy store and significantly reduce foreign aid {welfare}, 2) can no longer be the world policeman, 3) makes no sense to turn a blind eye to illegal immigration, 4) makes little sense to continue to pour billions into a losing war on drugs, 5) is tme to rein in the military industrial complex President Eisenhower cautioned the nation about in 1961, and 6) is time to reform entilements ie; social security, medicare, and medicaid so that they remain solvent while gradually requiring people to take more responsibility in insuring their own security.
The full article here.
Via: Memeorandum
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservatism
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
The President, in a display of executive power and arrogance, threatened Monday to veto the republican's Cut, Cap, and Balance initiative should it arrive on his desk. Lets dispense with all the hyperbole and vitriol and address the issue objectively.
It is becoming increasingly clear republicans and the President are engaged in a great test of wills. There is little question but what both sides have decided to play hardball, and neither side at this point appears to be able, or willing to negotiate a reasonable resolution to the impasse. As this is being written it appears the President is holding the greatest number of cards.
As the nation waits, the people cannot help but wonder why the supposedly intelligent and mature individuals they elected to represent them are unable {or unwilling} to find a way to balance the budget, honor our obligations, and find a way to put our feet on a course that leads our nation back to fiscal sanity and shared prosperity.
As a fiscal conservative the concept of cutting spending, capping future spending at a reasonable percent of GDP (19.9% is a reasonable number), and passing a balanced budget amendment is appealing and desirable. We also need to encourage business growth here at home, give companies the incentive to invest and grow their businesses {elimination of corporate income taxes is a good place to start} so as business confidence grows they begin putting people back to work.
The Hill reporting on the President's veto threat with accompanying comments by yours truly.
“Neither setting arbitrary spending levels nor amending the Constitution is necessary to restore fiscal responsibility,” the White House said in its statement. “Increasing the federal debt limit, which is needed to avoid a federal government default on its obligations and a severe blow to the economy, should not be conditioned on taking these actions. Instead of pursuing an empty political statement and unrealistic policy goals, it is necessary to move beyond politics as usual and find bipartisan common ground.”
Given that our government has demonstrated its inability to act responsibly and live within its means it makes perfedct sense to shackel the congresses ability to over promise and over spend. Had the congress always been responsible, remember the President can only spend that which has been approved by the house of representatives, I would whole heartedly buy the White Hiuse argument.
While I agree the debt ceiling must be raised to avoid default, effective mechanism must be in place to avoid a continuation of the spending habits of the last 50 years. They need to be in place before we once again raise the ceiling because if effective mechanisms are not in place we will no doubt be revisiting the present drama all over again.
White House communications director Dan Pfeiffer said in a conference call Monday afternoon that the Republican plan "enshrines into the Constitution the Ryan plan on steroids." Pfeiffer was referring to the House GOP budget authored by Rep. Paul Ryan (R-Wis.), which included significant reforms to Medicare.
This is more hyperbole, simple scare tactics meant for those who will choose not to think. A balanced budget amendment would say nothing as to how revenues are to be spent. It would simply require congress to make decisions, admitedly sometimes very tough ones, as to where revenues would be directed and require the budget to be balanced at the end of the day.
"It’s disappointing the White House would reject this common-sense plan to rein in the debt and deficits that are hurting job creation in America," Boehner said in a statement. "While American families have to set priorities and balance their books, this White House obviously isn’t serious about making the same tough choices.
In fairness I must say the Congress is responsible for the budget and it does control the purse strings. It's right in the Constution, always has been. So, I guess the Congress should have put the breaks on spending years ago.
"This unfortunate veto threat should make clear that the issue is not congressional inaction, but rather the [resident’s unwillingness to cut spending and restrain the future growth of our government. If we are going to raise the debt limit and avoid default, the White House must be willing to demonstrate more courage than we have seen to date," Boehner said.
For the American people getting nothing accomplished and our nation defaulting on its obligations puts all of Washington on the inaction list. However, given the President's willingness to accept the 3 for 1 deal I'm betting at the end of the day congressional republicans will have the most egg on their faces and likely will be out of a job soon.
The administration lambasted the "cut, cap and balance" proposal as setting out “a false and unacceptable choice between the federal government defaulting on its obligations now or, alternatively, passing a Balanced Budget Amendment that, in the years ahead, will likely leave the nation unable to meet its core commitment of ensuring dignity in retirement.”
More scare tactics from the administration. There exists much pork in the budget, we all know it. Perhaps the nation ought to read Ron Paul's book and consider his recommendations. I have, they are bold, and they are good.
Perhaps, just maybe, it is time for this 235 year old republic to decide that it 1) can no longer afford to be the world's candy store and significantly reduce foreign aid {welfare}, 2) can no longer be the world policeman, 3) makes no sense to turn a blind eye to illegal immigration, 4) makes little sense to continue to pour billions into a losing war on drugs, 5) is tme to rein in the military industrial complex President Eisenhower cautioned the nation about in 1961, and 6) is time to reform entilements ie; social security, medicare, and medicaid so that they remain solvent while gradually requiring people to take more responsibility in insuring their own security.
The full article here.
Via: Memeorandum
Labels:
Budget Cuts,
Debt Ceiling,
Politics as Usual
Sunday, July 17, 2011
The Debt, The Debt Ceiling, and Leveler Heads... Will they Prevail?
by: Les Carpenter
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservatism
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
Fiscal conservatism is about a lot more than just cutting spending, reducing taxes, and passing a balanced budget amendment. Which, by all indications is where republicans in Congress presently find themselves.
Fiscal conservatism is about maintaining control of spending while providing the revenue to fund the necessary functions of government. It is about acting responsibly so the government's fiscal house stays in order and solvent. Not unlike a well run business.
The federal government has certain critical obligations that must be funded. Obligations such as national defense, maintaining a federal judiciary, insuring the strength of our national infra structure, maintaining our borders, maintaining the safety of our federal highways and bridges, maintaining diplomatic relations with foreign states, and yes, maintaining the social net known as social security and medicare. Prior administrations of the federal government are responsible for setting up the expectations people have today with respect to social security and medicare. It rests with the current administration as well as future ones to deal effectively with the mess we have created for ourselves over the past fifty years.
Fiscal conservatism does not mean funding a military industrial complex so the United States can maintain a global military presence and domination. It does not mean the United States should continually fund wars for reasons not directly related to our national security. It does not mean the United States ought to feel responsible to finance foreign states through foreign aid, or as I like to say foreign welfare.
Fiscal conservatism does mean taking care of business at home. It does mean providing the necessary incentives for businesses, especially manufacturing, to keep production in the U.S.A. thus providing jobs for Americans. It does mean putting America first. It does mean placing our national self interest, and those of our people above the interests of all other nations. It does mean recognizing what that means and understanding what it doesn't.
Any reasonably intelligent individual knows we must get spending under control. They know that our continuing deficits and national debt will eventually strangle the nation if we don't. Most everyone realizes we must cut spending and cut it deeply, very deeply. And I suspect most, if they are honest with themselves, believe a balanced budget amendment is a good mechanism to help keep us in balance if we ever get there again.
Which leads me to the debt ceiling. Fiscal conservatism also teaches us that if you take an action that creates an obligation on your part you are bound to make good on said obligation. When the obligation becomes so unmanageable {as our debt has} that you must take action to reverse the trend you do so. By implementing short term as well as long term decisions that place you on firm fiscal footing again.
The current impasse over raising our national debt ceiling to meet our obligations has serious risks and likely will have serious consequences. Rational Nation USA has posted several opinions on this issue, this is another that's critical of the republicans. To those who call themselves fiscal conservatives, understand the foregoing. You must not take a position that result in defaulting on our national obligations because you are blinded by ideology.
Do the right thing now, the American people will understand, and then continue to fight to eliminate waste, control spending, win a balanced budget amendment, reform entitlements further, and keep us out of costly unnecessary wars that infringe on another nation's sovereignty.
I leave you with the following to consider. Taken from NationalJournal, July 16th edition.
Via: Memeorandum
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservatism
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
Fiscal conservatism is about a lot more than just cutting spending, reducing taxes, and passing a balanced budget amendment. Which, by all indications is where republicans in Congress presently find themselves.
Fiscal conservatism is about maintaining control of spending while providing the revenue to fund the necessary functions of government. It is about acting responsibly so the government's fiscal house stays in order and solvent. Not unlike a well run business.
The federal government has certain critical obligations that must be funded. Obligations such as national defense, maintaining a federal judiciary, insuring the strength of our national infra structure, maintaining our borders, maintaining the safety of our federal highways and bridges, maintaining diplomatic relations with foreign states, and yes, maintaining the social net known as social security and medicare. Prior administrations of the federal government are responsible for setting up the expectations people have today with respect to social security and medicare. It rests with the current administration as well as future ones to deal effectively with the mess we have created for ourselves over the past fifty years.
Fiscal conservatism does not mean funding a military industrial complex so the United States can maintain a global military presence and domination. It does not mean the United States should continually fund wars for reasons not directly related to our national security. It does not mean the United States ought to feel responsible to finance foreign states through foreign aid, or as I like to say foreign welfare.
Fiscal conservatism does mean taking care of business at home. It does mean providing the necessary incentives for businesses, especially manufacturing, to keep production in the U.S.A. thus providing jobs for Americans. It does mean putting America first. It does mean placing our national self interest, and those of our people above the interests of all other nations. It does mean recognizing what that means and understanding what it doesn't.
Any reasonably intelligent individual knows we must get spending under control. They know that our continuing deficits and national debt will eventually strangle the nation if we don't. Most everyone realizes we must cut spending and cut it deeply, very deeply. And I suspect most, if they are honest with themselves, believe a balanced budget amendment is a good mechanism to help keep us in balance if we ever get there again.
Which leads me to the debt ceiling. Fiscal conservatism also teaches us that if you take an action that creates an obligation on your part you are bound to make good on said obligation. When the obligation becomes so unmanageable {as our debt has} that you must take action to reverse the trend you do so. By implementing short term as well as long term decisions that place you on firm fiscal footing again.
The current impasse over raising our national debt ceiling to meet our obligations has serious risks and likely will have serious consequences. Rational Nation USA has posted several opinions on this issue, this is another that's critical of the republicans. To those who call themselves fiscal conservatives, understand the foregoing. You must not take a position that result in defaulting on our national obligations because you are blinded by ideology.
Do the right thing now, the American people will understand, and then continue to fight to eliminate waste, control spending, win a balanced budget amendment, reform entitlements further, and keep us out of costly unnecessary wars that infringe on another nation's sovereignty.
I leave you with the following to consider. Taken from NationalJournal, July 16th edition.
In a presentation to the House Republican Conference on Friday, Jay Powell, a former Under Secretary at the Treasury Department under George H.W. Bush and a visiting scholar at the Bipartisan Policy Center, laid out just what would happen if a deal isn't reached.
On August 3, according to Powell's presentation, the federal government would be on the hook for $32 billion in committed spending, including $23 billion in Social Security checks, $500 million in federal worker salaries, $1.4 billion owed to Defense Department vendors and $100 million in refunds the IRS owes to businesses. On the same day, the government will take in only $12 billion in revenue, giving the government a $20 billion cash deficit. By August 15, when the federal government is on the hook for a $29 billion interest payment, the cash shortfall will have grown to $74 billion—and possibly more, if interest rates on U.S. debt rises.
The presentation, according to several sources in the room at the time, was aimed at conveying the seriousness of the moment. Recent warnings from Moody's and Standard & Poor's that they could downgrade the nation's debt have underscored the danger a default poses. It's a message Republicans on both sides of Capitol Hill have been trying to drive home to their members.
"There are serious repercussions for the country if the debt limit is not raised and it's important that members have information on what we may be facing. The aim is not to scare anyone but the facts are frightening," said a top Senate Republican aide.
But Republican leadership's task is far more complicated than simply convincing their members to vote one way or another. Instead, they must convince those members they are getting a good deal, which, given the slow pace of negotiations, is not a saleable pitch right now. "It would be a mistake to believe that any of our leaders will support a deal that is insufficiently aggressive on debt reduction or one that raises taxes," the House Republican aide said. {The Rest Here}
Via: Memeorandum
The Fringes... A Threat To The American Way Of Life
by: Les Carpenter
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservatism
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
When contemplating the major political parties in the United States, both democrat and republican, one need consider there are fringe elements in both. People who make up small minorities and who do not represent the views of the great majority of the American people. They are however a threat to our political and socioeconomic systems as well as our American culture and way of life. In this sense they present a danger as they are often well organized and well financed.
While perusing the net late Saturday night for some interesting news items, of which there were few, the following jumped out at me. Emphasis in the following excerpt is mine.
This individual {and there are many like her} either is totally unaware of the history of world Communism, doesn't care, or actually supports the tenets of collectivism. A central government managed economy as well as a political and social system that is contrary to every American principle.
These fringe, or extreme elements spend their time and money working within the system to gradually, and almost without notice, change the system to achieve their political and social ends. The Communist Party of the United States is precisely that kind of organization.
Read the full text of the article that jumped off the page at me here.
This opinion is unquestionably one sided. It grows late and I am tired. Perhaps the flip side will make the pages of this site soon.
The take away folks is really... Beware of the fringe/extreme elements within both major parties. It is for certain they do not have our nation or it's people's rational self interest in mind.
In two words, it's about Power and Control.
Good night, and may a dose of rational thought soon descend upon Washington.
Via: Memeorandum
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservatism
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
When contemplating the major political parties in the United States, both democrat and republican, one need consider there are fringe elements in both. People who make up small minorities and who do not represent the views of the great majority of the American people. They are however a threat to our political and socioeconomic systems as well as our American culture and way of life. In this sense they present a danger as they are often well organized and well financed.
While perusing the net late Saturday night for some interesting news items, of which there were few, the following jumped out at me. Emphasis in the following excerpt is mine.
"I don't know who I'm going to vote for yet because there doesn't seem to be too many people on the horizon, but I will vote for someone whether it's a Green candidate, whether it's a communist, I don't care... Croteau said.
This individual {and there are many like her} either is totally unaware of the history of world Communism, doesn't care, or actually supports the tenets of collectivism. A central government managed economy as well as a political and social system that is contrary to every American principle.
These fringe, or extreme elements spend their time and money working within the system to gradually, and almost without notice, change the system to achieve their political and social ends. The Communist Party of the United States is precisely that kind of organization.
Read the full text of the article that jumped off the page at me here.
This opinion is unquestionably one sided. It grows late and I am tired. Perhaps the flip side will make the pages of this site soon.
The take away folks is really... Beware of the fringe/extreme elements within both major parties. It is for certain they do not have our nation or it's people's rational self interest in mind.
In two words, it's about Power and Control.
Good night, and may a dose of rational thought soon descend upon Washington.
Via: Memeorandum
Saturday, July 16, 2011
And The Point Is?
by: Les Carpenter
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservatism
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
It never fails to amaze me. By which I mean the idiocy of both our justice system at times and our federal government in general.
I mean, why are we wasting hours of legal talent on DADT that could be better spent on matters that really are of importance?
Of course the matter will be mute at some point. At which time we will have done the right thing. But why the colossal waste of time and money?
Oh that's right. It is, stupid me, all about the money the attorneys will receive for what in reality is a foregone conclusion.
Whatever... It's the American way I suppose.
The important thing at this point is... Ultimately we won't be wasting our time on this issue in the future.
Well, assuming the religious fringe and homophobic extremists move on to other issues of irrationality.
Via: Memeorandum
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservatism
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
It never fails to amaze me. By which I mean the idiocy of both our justice system at times and our federal government in general.
I mean, why are we wasting hours of legal talent on DADT that could be better spent on matters that really are of importance?
Of course the matter will be mute at some point. At which time we will have done the right thing. But why the colossal waste of time and money?
Oh that's right. It is, stupid me, all about the money the attorneys will receive for what in reality is a foregone conclusion.
Whatever... It's the American way I suppose.
LOS ANGELES — The military's "don't ask, don't tell" policy is back in place for the time being, with one major caveat: the government is not allowed to investigate, penalize or discharge anyone who is openly gay.
A San Francisco federal appeals court ordered the military to temporarily continue the controversial policy in an order late Friday, the court's response to a request from the Obama administration.
The order is the latest twist in the legal limbo gay service members have found themselves in as the policy is fought in the courts simultaneous to its slow dismantling by the federal government, which expects to do away with it by later this year.
In its three-page ruling, the U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals said the ruling was based on new information provided by the federal government, including a declaration from Major General Steven A. Hummer, who is leading the effort to repeal the policy.
"In order to provide this court with an opportunity to consider fully the issues presented in the light of these previously undisclosed facts," the court wrote, that it would uphold an earlier order to keep the policy in place.
The court of appeals had halted "don't ask, don't tell" July 6 but the Department of Justice filed an emergency motion Thursday saying ending the policy now would pre-empt the orderly process for rolling it back, per a law signed by President Barack Obama in December.
The ruling was supported by Servicemembers United, an organization of gay and lesbian troops and veterans, but the group's executive director Alexander Nicholson voiced frustration over the slow process of dismantling "don't ask, don't tell. {Read More}
The important thing at this point is... Ultimately we won't be wasting our time on this issue in the future.
Well, assuming the religious fringe and homophobic extremists move on to other issues of irrationality.
Via: Memeorandum
Labels:
DADT
The Progressive Prittle Prattle... It's All Bush's Fault
by: Les Carpenter
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservatism
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
Obama has it all figured out. He ran against GWB in 2008 and won. Therefore in his mind it only stands to reason he can win again running against GWB in 2012.
Listen to the Master of the Hall of Smoke and Mirrors closely. H/T Fox Nation
So yeah Mr. President, mistakes were made in the past. We should learn from the past. The real fiscal conservatives have. Isn't it about time you, as President of these United States learned the same lesson?
Perhaps it's too much to ask of a progressive.
Via: Memeorandum
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservatism
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
Obama has it all figured out. He ran against GWB in 2008 and won. Therefore in his mind it only stands to reason he can win again running against GWB in 2012.
Listen to the Master of the Hall of Smoke and Mirrors closely. H/T Fox Nation
PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA: It turns out we don’t have to do anything radical to solve this problem. Contrary to what some folks say, we’re not Greece, we’re not Portugal. It turns out that our problem is we cut taxes without paying for them over the last decade. We ended up instituting new programs, like a prescription drug program for seniors that was not paid for. We fought two wars, we didn’t pay for them. We had a bad recession that required a Recovery Act and stimulus spending and helping states, accumulated, and there’s interest on top of that. And to unwind that, what’s required is that we roll back those tax cuts on the wealthiest individuals. That we clean up our tax codes so we’re not giving out a bunch of tax breaks to companies that don’t need them and are not creating jobs. We cut programs that we don’t need and we invest in those things that are gonna help us grow. And every commission that’s been out there has said the same thing and basically taken then same approach within the margin of error. So my general view is that if the American people looked at this they’d say, “Boy, some of the decisions are tough, but they don’t require us to gut Medicare or Social Security. They don’t require us to stop helping young people to go to college. They don’t require us to stop helping families who have a disabled child. They don’t require us to violate our obligation to our veterans. And they don’t require us to stop, quote/unquote, 'job-killing' tax cuts. They require us to make some modest adjustments to get out house in order. And we should do it now.” With respect to Senator McConnell’s plan, like I said, I think it is a ... it is constructed to say that if Washington operates as usual and can’t get anything done, let’s avert Armageddon.
So yeah Mr. President, mistakes were made in the past. We should learn from the past. The real fiscal conservatives have. Isn't it about time you, as President of these United States learned the same lesson?
Perhaps it's too much to ask of a progressive.
Via: Memeorandum
Labels:
Obama and the New Left
Friday, July 15, 2011
Cut, Cap, and Balance... A Sensible Solution
by: Les Carpenter
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservatism
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
Seems sensible does it not? Or is it just conservatives that understand a government ought to be run like a successful business. Or household for that matter.
From The Hill.
A lot of finger pointing going on and blame for the impasse over the debt ceiling is being spread all around. The Cut, Cap, and Balance makes good sense. It is a conservative approach to governing, and it is what America needs.
So, Mr. President, we're waiting...
More at Legal Insurrection.
Via: Memeorandum
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservatism
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
Seems sensible does it not? Or is it just conservatives that understand a government ought to be run like a successful business. Or household for that matter.
From The Hill.
House Republican leaders have thrown their support behind the "cut, cap and balance" plan that conservatives are demanding in return for an increase in the federal debt ceiling.
According to lawmakers who attended an 8 a.m. meeting of the Republican Conference, GOP House members rallied Friday behind an effort to cut spending, cap spending in future years and pass a balanced-budget amendment to the Constitution — a package that has been pushed in the House by the Republican Study Committee (RSC).
“We asked the president to lead, we asked him to put forward a plan, not a speech — a real plan — and he hasn’t. We will,” Speaker John Boehner said (R-Ohio) after the meeting.
Boehner was asked if the move to support the plan was a sign that the White House talks on the debt ceiling are dead.
“I don’t want to preclude any chance of coming to an agreement,” he said. Boehner demanded that Obama put forth a "real" plan with spending cuts and entitlement reforms.
One lawmaker told The Hill that the proposal is the GOP's response to President Obama's challenge — issued at Thursday evening's negotiations at the White House — to come up with an answer to the current impasse over raising the borrowing limit.
House Majority Leader Eric Cantor (R-Va.) said Republicans are looking for a permanent change in Washington's spending habits.
“We want to change the system here. We want to be able to go home to the people who elected us and show them that we are not going to allow this kind of spending to continue,” House Majority Leader Eric Cantor (R-Va.) said.
“So we are going to bring a bill forward next week otherwise known as the 'cut, cap and balance' bill to provide a balanced approach so we can demonstrate that we are getting things under control, that the people who put us here can gain some confidence that we are going to begin to live like they do around their kitchen tables and their businesses," Cantor said.
The plan would authorize a $2.4 trillion increase in the debt ceiling after Congress passes a balanced-budget amendment. {Continue Reading}
A lot of finger pointing going on and blame for the impasse over the debt ceiling is being spread all around. The Cut, Cap, and Balance makes good sense. It is a conservative approach to governing, and it is what America needs.
So, Mr. President, we're waiting...
More at Legal Insurrection.
Via: Memeorandum
The Wrong Line In The Sand
by: Les Carpenter
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservatism
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
As the clock ticks on, and the nation approaches a possible default on it's debt obligations some Republicans are beginning to sense the mistakes being made within their ranks.
I find myself in increasing agreement with Senator Corker.
Via: Memeorandum
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservatism
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
As the clock ticks on, and the nation approaches a possible default on it's debt obligations some Republicans are beginning to sense the mistakes being made within their ranks.
WASHINGTON -- Some Republicans are starting to have buyer's remorse over their party's insistence that a vote to raise the debt limit be tied to a long-term deficit reduction package.
"Maybe the debt ceiling was the wrong place to pick a fight, as it related to trying to get our country's house in order," Sen. Bob Corker (R-Tenn.) said Thursday. "Maybe that was the wrong place to do it."
Speaking from the Senate floor, Corker said Republicans demanded linking the two issues because the Senate hasn't passed a budget in more than 800 days. "I credit both sides for that," he said. But now, the inability of the White House and Congress to agree to a spending deal -- and ensure a timely debt ceiling increase -- is "helping our great nation go into decline."
For months, House and Senate GOP leaders have vowed not to raise the debt limit without tying the vote to substantial deficit reduction. The White House and Democratic leaders initially protested, citing grave economic consequences of toying with a debt-ceiling hike. But they eventually acquiesced as Republican leaders made it clear they weren't budging.
“To increase the debt limit without simultaneously addressing the drivers of our debt, in defiance of the will of our people, would be monumentally arrogant and massively irresponsible," Speaker John Boehner (R-Ohio) said in May at the Economic Club of New York. {The Rest}
I find myself in increasing agreement with Senator Corker.
Via: Memeorandum
Thursday, July 14, 2011
The Continuing Saga of the Debt Ceiling Crises
by: Les Carpenter
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservatism
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
The President, Congressional Democrats, and Republicans are action like spoiled brats. It's kinda like watching a child who throws a temper tantrum because they wanted a red lollipop and they were given a green one.
There is every reason to blame both parties, as well as the President, for this modern game of brinkmanship playing out over the debt crises. In the event talks produce nothing and we default on our obligations the responsibility rests with both parties and the President.
They, and I mean in unison, will bear the responsibility for the fallout both nationally and internationally for their inability to cut the deal.
It is obvious that all concerned are interested more in their own agenda than the interest of the American people, or anything else for that matter.
Simply disgusting...
... Adults acting as children.
Alan Simpson: ‘No Hope’ of Debt Ceiling Agreement
“Don’t call my bluff,” the president said.
Boehner: Dealing With the White House 'Has Been Like Dealing With Jell-o'
Obama warns Cantor: 'Don't call my bluff' in debt-limit talks
Via: Memeorandum
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservatism
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
The President, Congressional Democrats, and Republicans are action like spoiled brats. It's kinda like watching a child who throws a temper tantrum because they wanted a red lollipop and they were given a green one.
There is every reason to blame both parties, as well as the President, for this modern game of brinkmanship playing out over the debt crises. In the event talks produce nothing and we default on our obligations the responsibility rests with both parties and the President.
They, and I mean in unison, will bear the responsibility for the fallout both nationally and internationally for their inability to cut the deal.
It is obvious that all concerned are interested more in their own agenda than the interest of the American people, or anything else for that matter.
Simply disgusting...
... Adults acting as children.
Alan Simpson: ‘No Hope’ of Debt Ceiling Agreement
“Don’t call my bluff,” the president said.
Boehner: Dealing With the White House 'Has Been Like Dealing With Jell-o'
Obama warns Cantor: 'Don't call my bluff' in debt-limit talks
Via: Memeorandum
Sunday, July 10, 2011
Incorporate This
Just for the record, folks, you can't tax a corporation. You can only tax PEOPLE. And, yes, according to William Gentry's paper for the Treasury Department, it's labor (you know, actual flesh and bone workers - the people that progressives are supposed to care about) that tends to bear the biggest burden of the corporate tax. Couple that with the fact that a) the corporate tax doesn't really raise all that much money, b) it encourages firms to waste valuable resources on tax avoidance, and c) it's a major factor in lobbying and, yeah, you are kind of forced to see the clumsiness of it............................................................................................My proposal, folks (and, yes, I was glad to see that Megan McCardle of "The Atlantic" essentially has the same one), is to eliminate the corporate income tax completely BUT, in addition, eliminate also the special treatment of capital gains. Have it taxed as regular income, in other words. American companies will no doubt flourish (hell, we might even be able to get a few foreign companies to switch on over) and, AND, we'll still be able to stick it to the fat-cats. I mean, really, who in the hell loses here? I don't see anybody who loses.................................................................................................Oh, and, if you think that it's only right-wingers and "corporatists" who support the elimination of corporate income taxes, think again. One of the articles that supports such a move I actually derived from the progressive blog, "Firedog Lake" (firedoglake.com/newbroomparty/2010/09/29/why-progressives-should-eliminate-the-corporate-income-tax). What do you think about that?........................................................................................................P.S. Just for full disclosure here, the Firedog Lake proposal had as its trade-off a sort of import tax. I myself much prefer Ms. McCardle's proposal of raising the capital gains tax instead. Her article can be had at theatlantic.com/business/archive/2010/10/why-we-should-eliminate-the-corporate -income-tax
According To Matthews Republicans Are Terrorists
MRC reporting.
Two times in less than 24 hours, MSNBC's Chris Matthews smeared Republicans who oppose raising the debt limit as "terrorists." On Tuesday, after liberal guest Joan Walsh compared the GOP position to "hostage taking," the Hardball anchor derided, "I agree. It's terrorism." {The Rest}
We will be hearing a lot more of this drivel from Matthews and others of is ilk in the coming days. It gets oh so tiring... What a putz.
Some Old Time Rock and Roll
by: Les Carpenter
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservatism
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
Before signing off on this beautiful evening {morning on the east cost} I leave you with some good old time rock and roll.
Rational Nation USA
Birthplace of Independent Conservatism
Liberty -vs- Tyranny
Before signing off on this beautiful evening {morning on the east cost} I leave you with some good old time rock and roll.
Labels:
Elvis Presley,
Little Richrd
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)