A Political Warranty
by Joseph C. PhillipsIn his first year in office former president Bill Clinton, who had run as a centrist, was drawn into the new left vortex of socialized healthcare, which led to a resounding defeat for Clinton and the Democrats in the 1994 mid-term elections. Current President Barack Obama too is attempting to reform healthcare and like Clinton has seen his popularity sink. Some political pundits are drawing comparisons between the two administrations and positing that democrats are setting themselves up for a bit of a spanking come 2010. It is, as Shirley Bassey sang, “all just a little bit of history repeating.”
Or is it?
In 1994 the political right offered voters something more than simply criticism of the President. Republican members of the House of Representatives presented voters with the “Contract with America.” This document, signed by all but two Republican congressmen and all of the Republican congressional candidates, detailed the specific legislative action Republicans would take if the American people handed them the reigns of government. The contract was a “detailed agenda for national renewal, a written commitment with no fine print.”
At the time of this writing I am not aware of Republicans having any such detailed agenda nor, unfortunately, am I confident that there is one in the works. I have a recurring nightmare that we will all awake on January 1st with a President and Democrat congress weakened by continued economic malaise, a healthcare boondoggle and threats of huge energy taxes designed to save the planet only to be greeted with the Republican mantra of tax cuts – a tune that has become monotonous and rings rather hollow, due primarily to Republican complicity in building the ship that delivered us to these rocky economic shores.
And yet like 1994 over-reaching by the new left has provided Republicans with a huge political opportunity to perhaps retake the House of Representatives or at the very least deny Democrats their filibuster proof majority. But in order to convince voters that the right is prepared to drive domestic policy the GOP needs more than complaints and criticism; they must present a committed and detailed agenda.
Rather than call it a “Contract with America,” which seems a bit old hat, we can perhaps refer to this as a Political Warranty – a warranty that if the GOP is returned to power they will be bound to a short-list legislative agenda aimed at delivering true healthcare reform, true education reform and truly trying to realize a post racial America.
I am not talking about rhetoric or an articulation of principles. Alas, Republicans are all too adept at articulating principles; they have as of late been rather lackluster in conveying specific policy.
What is the specific legislative action the GOP is going to take to increase competition in health care? How willing is the GOP to buck the system and remove barriers to insurance purchases across state lines? To removing obstacles to new insurance companies entering the industry? How committed is the GOP to instituting real tort reform? True price and quality transparency? Are they willing to butt heads with the AMA and make it easier to build new medical schools in order to train more doctors?
Republicans talk about education reform, but what is the specific legislative action they promise to take in order to remove decisions about k-12 education out of the pockets of the bureaucrats and back into the hands of parents? How will they encourage innovation? How will they rebuild our vocational schools to meet the needs of the 21st century?
Finally, criticism of the President for not moving the nation beyond race means very little without a GOP re-commitment to being the post racial party. Republicans must warranty that they will be most committed to legislation that furthers the battle against discrimination of all kinds. Further the warranty must make it clear that the party will not tolerate bigotry of any sort within its ranks.
I will leave it to others more politically astute than I to fill in the blanks, but the questions must be answered. The GOP has a real opportunity to become the true party of reform, but history will not simply repeat itself without a little nudge.
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104 Comments
i want leadership, real take-the-bull-by-the-horns leadership, and i'm not seeing it in the republican party. we are dying here. americans are begging to be led. and the republicans are acting like they are new to the dance. they better get their stuff together and fast….
I heard that the Republicans had something like this in the works. I think I heard Steele talking about it, or DeMint. IIRC.
I hope they do. People feel so lost right now that some positive plan would be good to see.
Mr. Phillips, just want you to know that this is a very well-written and thought-provoking article. It reminded me how brilliant the Republican party leadership was and gave me hope that it will be once again. I'm hoping that they read your article. Thank you.
If the Republicans come roaring back, it will be because of the push back against the Obamacrats, not because of anything the Elephants have done themselves.
The problem is the Republicans don't know what to say. There are two Republican parties right now. You have your flimsy RINOs that go with whatever tide they are swept up in at that moment, and the true conservatives. Every time the conservatives open their mouth, they are shouted down by the Libs and silenced, and when the RINOs open their mouth, they are embraced by the Libs as folks who "wanna get stuff done" which they in turn are smacked down by their constituency. They do not have a plan, so they are in disarray. One side wants to do one thing, and the other side wants to do another. What they need to do is come together on the core issues and show some leadership.
Boehner said the administration claims they want bi-partisanship, but havan't been invitrd to any talks since April or june. Said there are some Republican alternative plans @ healthcare.gop.gov.
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I believe that Republicans are unwilling to be bold and innovative for a reason. You only have to look at the beating Bush took when he tried to reform Social Security. Too many Republicans are concerned with how the media portrays them and their ideas. For all the rightous rhetoric we here from most of them, re-election is the first & formost priority. Sometimes it seems that success to the Republicans means staying out of the media spotlight, after all, no news is good news.
The Republican Party needs to be less hard-lined on social issues. They turn away great numbers of voters in their attempt to appease the radical right.
The sad reality is that the Republican Party is broken. Any organization that was not broken would have already responded with detailed counter proposals given this opportunity. Instaed there is the same old same old. More manueverings and shifting to gain short erm political advantage. Sure there are some good ones but why aren't they leading the charge? The answer is what remains of the leadership is afraid. They are afraid because they lost so big in the last three years. They are afraid because they are out of touch and they know it. It is fear that has broken the Party as well as incompetence. We need to clean house and send new blood to Washington if there is any hope in fixing anything.
Nice try.
How about kicking the GOP out of power along with DNC Congressional "leaders?"
This notion that just because we absolutely abhor the Pelosi's and the Emanuel's of the world means we concur with the Cheney-Halliburton Gang or the "Vast Right Wing Conspiracy" really should melt away. Americans should have more than just a "two-party" 'public option' just like we should have REAL competition for health insurance.
DNC vs. RNC? That game should have been over along time ago.
Ask yourself? How hard would it be to standardize a 'package' of health insurance policies? They can even make it less infantile and corny than "cash for clunkers" (whose toddler dreamed that one up).
You have the Platinum Policy and the Gold Policy and the Silver Policy and the Green Policy (this is for hippies of course – includes medical marijuana). And then let the competition begin….GAME ON. Available in all 50 states. Eliminate the small print, the lobbyists, Pelosi, the lawyers and let people decide how much coverage they need.
That DNC wank that owns Progressive Auto even has a really bubbly chick in his commercials using Tonka Toys and cardboard props to explain how it works. Combine it with "So easy even a caveman can do it."
AND THEN…. take that 1000 PAGE "Healthcare Reform" Bill and SHOVE IT RIGHT DOWN K Streets THROATS.
This article was a complete steaming load. The Tea Parties are the platform of conservatism. The candidate of choice for the movement is Sarah Palin. The End.
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I'm afraid I have to disagree. Frankly, I don't want to be led, I want to be left alone to live my life as I see fit. And I don't want to be "reformed" either. I don't think the republicans need to out-Obama Obama, I think they need to stand for liberty and freedom. You know, the things that make us Americans what we are when we're at our best.
I mean, how many times do people need to be told that they need to change? What are we, a pack of lab rats to be experimented on by politicians? Why is it assumed that government's job is to somehow improve the citizenry? Sounds like totalitarianism to me.
The government's job should be to secure the borders, defend us from foreign enemies, print the currency and deliver the mail. Other than that, the government should leave us the hell alone. We're not sheep, and we don't need to be led. And if we are, what difference would it make if we had good leaders anyway? Sheep are not improved by having good leadership; the only person who profits by having well-led sheep is the butcher. And people are only "improved" by becoming the type of independent people who can lead themselves. Otherwise, they're simply good followers — happy Kool-aid drinkers, as it were. If you want to see a nation of well-led people, look at North Korea. Who profits from "good leadership" there?
I don't hear any candidates talking like that (well, maybe Ron Paul). Instead, they all seem to accept the maxim that Americans are helpless idiots, incapable of solving their own problems without the heavy hand of government. I'm waiting for a candidate who respects the voters, rather than feels it's his duty to "lead us in the right direction." No reformist leaders for me, thanks. But I wouldn't mind a decent public servant who knows his place and is willing to work for me, not vice versa. Got any of those?
The principles conservative Republicans have always espoused don't need to be changed — smaller government, lower taxes, term limits, free market principles applied to healthcare, the environment, and education, etc. But I agree they do need an intelligent, articulate voice and a plan. I just don't see anyone in congress now who fits the description. Moreover, most of the incumbents were in power when Republicans blew it the first time. Voters are reluctant to reward Republicans again with a majority when they have to beg us to "Just give Republicans another chance. This time we'll do it right."
Perhaps a Second Bill of Rights, or a Freedom Agenda, that articulates a specific counter to each of Obama's domestic and foreign policy goals that got Americans so energized this summer. We need another Newt to do it though.
What the republican party needs is a Pledge. Elected officials of the Republican Party should have to swear on a Bible that they will not engage in deficit spending or debt borrowing via the treasury. If they cannot meet this requirement they should be ejected immediately. If they violate this oath they will be ejected immediately. The republican party was killed by it's own hand, and the only way it should make a comeback is by adherence to unbending principles.
This is not rocket science folks. This is actually very, very simple. It is a testament to how out of touch the Republican Party brass is that this has not been done already.
Unfortunate but true for a nation in need of true vision and leadership.
Then again, pushback against the pitiable pachyderms is why the great and grand "O" is in office for the next 3 years.
"…if the GOP is returned to power they will be bound to a short-list legislative agenda aimed at delivering true healthcare reform, true education reform and truly trying to realize a post racial America.
Now THIS is vintage Phillips. He starts out talking the talk of conservatism – healthcare reform, education, etc. – but that's not what he's really about. Nope, not one bit. Those of who read him are now sadly resigned to waiting wearily for his inevitable sucker punch to our chins – and Phillips always delivers. Oh, he'll talk about conservative that and this for a while – but it's just killing time until Phillips gets to the REAL thing that he's obsessed about. The only thing. Racism. It's always there. Phillips just won't let go of it – he loves it too much. And, mind you, it's not Phillips' racism – oh, no, no. Phillips would rather gnaw off his own arm than admit he's a racist. Nope, it's us white folks. We're racists. Yep, no doubt about it. We've elected a black president, the head of the RNC is black, yada yada yada? Oh, you can just hear Phillips snort 'nice try, White Americaa – you don't fool me". Nope, none of what we've done will stay his sucker punch – the inevitable 'we white folks are all racists'. This nation is filled with racism. And you know what? The ironic thing is that he's right – this nation IS filled with just that – as a ranting 'God DAMN America' minister proved, as a ranting 'You mama' Harvard professor proved, as a "I've never been proud to be an American" first lady proved, etc. Yes, it's that racism whose name Phillips dare not speak and won't speak – the racism of blacks. Like I said, Phillips would rather gnaw off his own arm than admit it. But he'll gnaw off ours.
And all too true… Moralizing Republicans are as bad for the party as RINOs
Well put Joseph. Surely to goodness if we can have these kind of conversations on a blog they can think of winning conservative strategy at the RNC, maybe I’m wrong.
While its true the republicans are still trying to dig themselves out of the hole they dug with the idiot bush and crew its also true they have availed themselves to the president, only to be rebuffed because their ideas didn't match that of the progressives(Obama's agenda). You know, the one where everyone gets everything and it'll be deficit-neutral(right). Another factor to consider would be the obedient press, the one that catapulted Obama to stardom, trashed his opponents and continues to spout the party line on command is the same one that marginalizes the repubs whenever their master orders. Hard to see how the right can pull off a 1994 but I guess there's always "hope"..
I do not want to be led, I do not want Congress to pass more laws, unless it is repealing laws. I do want Congress to protect and and foster an environment where I can pursue life, liberty and happiness. In other words, stay the Hell out of my life!
Everyone seems to buy into the honest "media died" during the Obama campaign…but actually the partisanship and anti-republican spin was just as bad during the Clinton and Bush Administrations, as you piont out. George Bush was a flawed guy, not a great speaker, unable to defend and articulate his positions, and not a fiscal conservative, but the keel-hauling and Tar and Feathering that was done to him by the Democrats and their Media lapdogs were just as much a call to arms as Obama's socialist agenda. I hope Brietbart keeps rolling.
I can't think of a hardline any republican takes on social issues?
Prolife? That is the majority position in the country.
http://www.gallup.com/poll/118399/more-americans-...
Gay Marriage? Again republicans are on the majority side.
http://www.gallup.com/poll/118378/Majority-Americ...
What social issue are you referring to?
Oh, would there be an alternate-reality where you were the RNC-Chair, instead of Michael Steele.
…I will leave it to others more politically astute than I…
I don't know who that would be Joe? You pretty much nailed it.
The problem has to do with the nature of the Big-Money that controls the republican party. I always hark back to that post election loss "listening tour". McCain, Graham, Romney, et al went out to "listen" to the republican faithful? Seemed we had been shouting it out for pretty loudly.
The East-coast money crowd are just as invested in big government as the Dems. Outside of Sarah P I don't hear one important voice in the republican party articulating our ideals from the heart. There still isn't much hope for real free market conservatism and constitutuional goverment in America today.
…I will leave it to others more politically astute than I…
I don't know who that would be Joe? You pretty much nailed it.
The problem has to do with the nature of the big-money that controls the Republican party. I always hark back to that post election loss "listening tour". McCain, Graham, Romney, et al went out to "listen" to the republican faithful? Seemed we had been shouting it out pretty loudly.
The East-coast money crowd are just as invested in big government as the Dems. Outside of Sarah P I don't hear one important voice in the republican party articulating our ideals from the heart. There still isn't much hope for real free market conservatism and constitutuional goverment in America today.
HERE IS THE LEADERSHIP – AND THE PLAN – THAT WE ALL WANT, AND NO ONE IN POLITICS WILL GIVE US:
"I PROMISE TO REPEAL ALL THESE INTRUSIVE SOCIAL ENGINEERING B.S. LAWS, CUT THE TAXES THAT WENT WITH THEM, AND GET THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT THE HELL OUT OF YOUR LIFE."
For the time being, we're better off without a leader for the MSM to revile and demonize. Right now they only have millions of individual moving targets. The tea partiers, etc. As long as our conservative does their job but stays out of the limelight we can reform our party the way it should be. The left loves to reduce everything conservative down to a caricature they can poke fun at. When that caricature looks like you and I it backfires on them. Everyone wants a great leader to lead us out of the wilderness, but we need to accept that the attention span and political acumen of the average "moderate" voter are lacking and save our grand "plan" and new leadership for the last months before the midterms. Lets let the left continue to self-destruct. The nation may continue to suffer but the lesson MUST stick this time so maybe we need to suffer a little more. We keep repeating this stupid cycle of voting in the crazy libtards and then almost immediately regreting it. I can't wait for 2010.
Just remember how dis organized the Dems were after Gore's defeat. They didn't get their act together until close to 2006, and most of their best ideas were "not Bush."
Good point and I haven't seen it made enough. But I'm not sure it will make any difference. This is not 1994. The current GOP leadership has no intention of doing anything more than leaning into the wind of ant-Obama sentiment and crossing their fingers. They will take as few chances as possible and risk as little as possible. We're living in the worst of times — total despicability and delusion on one side, near-total cowardice and cluelessness on the other.
And most of the GOP's best ideas are "anything but Obama".
It used to be said that, "Social Security is the third-rail of American politics." Well now, it seems, there is a fourth-rail with nearly the same electrical current, and it's health care.
Sure, I think health care should be reformed, but by CHANGING THE TORT LAWS and allowing providers to compete interstate. You won't hear your regional lawyer-representative endorsing that soon, and no wonder why that is: All the lawyer-politicians are in the pockets of trial lawyers (Who, even in the most generous and flattering light, are the most hurtful of all professionals that our society produces: all take/zero give).
Guys – enough with the circular firing squads and b!tching about how feckless the Republicans are. If you aren't actively working for candidates, contributing etc., then please shut your whiney pie-holes. Have you called your Republican rep to suggest something like this? Or do you prefer pout online? Look gang – this is very likely THE high water mark for the democrats. Right now. And look how they are handling things. Obama isn't the herald of a new era of liberal dominance – I genuinely believe he is the last gasp of the old one. I agree that their should be another Contract for America for the 2010 elections and several are in the works. You can't release these too early – next Summer would be better – followed up with a massive ad blitz and 8 more months of Obama follies material to hammer the dems with.
Most of the people who post on this site understand that governments are the problem. We are really not republicans but we as a group probably vote 99.99% republican because of the alternative: democrat.
We are libertarian/conservative people who don't look to governments for the answers to our problems. We do however know that there are problems created by governments that we must fix by electing different people to governments!!! It's a sad state of affairs.
Mr. Phillips to your plea for republicans to be committed "to legislation that furthers the battle against discrimination of all kinds": Does that include my discriminatory practice of choosing an Italian eatery over say a Persian dining experience? How do you define "discrimination"? With legislation comes punishment. Bigotry cannot be wiped out by republican legislative activity.
Finally, education "reform" will not be done in DC or Montgomery or Tallahassee or Sacramento. It will be done at the kitchen table or the desk at home when PARENTS of children instill the respect that book learnin' deserves. Hogwash to the teacher unions and their friends such as the SEIU and ACORN. The marriage of big government and big teacher unions is a failure and our kids(well to be blunt about it-not mine because we saw it coming and prepared for it)are worse off NOT better because of the union.
Please don't accept the fallacy that republicans MUST be democrat lites.
I believe we need new blood in the Republican party also. Here is what concerns me–every time someone emerges that seems no-nonsense, true-blue conservative, there is a faction of the Republican party that basically sabotages them. A prime example of this is Sarah Palin. What do you think?
I agree,but who is Mr Philips asking these questions to? Right now we have two parties, Republican and conservatives. I don't think the conservatives have anyone actually committed and willing to take the lead.
I realize it is early but while the Republicans may be willing to take the lead on just such a program they haven't got conservatives on there side in the pocket yet. There will not be a third party I'm sure but unless the Repubs do some fence mending, the Northeastern Repubs are still there and influencing Mr. Steele. I may be a lone person here but I am not going to vote for a Presidential candidate unless we have non rear kiss straight ahead firm leadership. The last election taught me a lot about leadership we didn't have and I'm not going to go thru that again, voluntarily.
YEA!
I enjoy reading your posts Carolyn but you apparently know Mr Phillips better than I do and I will take it you know of what you are saying but I didn't quite read all of your post in Mr phillips article. I'm a bit dense so what have I missed?
The faction you are refering to is the entrenched republican elite that resides in Washington and the New York areas. The Intelligensia of the republican party is the ones who lost the election and the same ones who brought most of the spending. They are really Democrat Lite. They are the ones who have directed, mostly behind the scenes, the attacks on Sarah Palin in order to cover-up thier own incompetence. This is why we need new blood in Washington. We need to sweep away the old gaurd who has become beholdin to too many different groups and organizations that run counter to Conservative Principles.
If you think the problem was Bush you are only partly right, and a small part at that. Bush made two big mistakes. 1: He did not veto any spending bills that were passed by Republicans. 2: He sponsered and signed Prescription Drug legislation which did nothing to lessen costs. These are his two big mistakes, all the other things that have been attributed to him or his administration are really problems in the minds that percieve them.
Now there's the basis for a political party. Too bad its not one I'm familiar with.
Concise, articulate, and just a great article. Thank you Joseph Phillips.
I read nearly all day as part of my job. This is the best written work I've read in a while.
Now let's hope the Republicans in Congress are paying attention.
Like it or not, we live in a representative republic where someone will lead. You don't think Obama needs to be out? Perhaps you misunderstand that Obama will not (paraphrase) "leave you alone to live your life as you see fit." Healthcare is only Phase One of gov't control of your life.
If you want the government to behave in the manner you describe in your third paragraph, then vote leaders that uphold conservative values into office. Otherwise (paraphrasing Edmund Burke), good men will do nothing and the evils of socialism will take away our freedoms.
[...] with America was different because it was so specific. Conservatives have gotten very good at discussing the principles of conservatism. But leaders have plans, specific ones. If we want to win we have to find them. [...]
[...] A Political Warranty Get More Info About Health Insurance Plans inside this Blog Post In His Own Words: Proof that Rush Limbaugh is Psychotic insurance companies Health Insurance Explained [...]
1894 midterms elections – look it up. Democrats lost 116 seats. As to those that say that there isn't a leader advocating smaller government, free market principles, individual liberty and the rest of the Conservative creed, think again:
I am proud to be an American. As someone who has had the tremendous opportunity to travel throughout the United States and listen to the concerns of Americans in towns and cities across the country, I can tell you that there is a sense of despair and even crisis afoot in America that has the potential to shape our global investment and trade policies for years, and even decades to come. Never has the leadership of our government ever been more critical to keeping my country, and the world, on a path to openness, growth and opportunity in global trade and investment.
It would of course be a mistake to put the entire burden of restoring the global economy on the backs of America’s leaders. There is plenty of work for all of us to do in this matter. Governments around the world must resist the siren call of trade protection to bring short term relief during a time of crisis.
Those who use currency policy or subsidies to promote their nation’s exports should remain acutely aware that if there ever were a time in which such policies could be viewed as “tolerable,” that time has now passed. All participants who seek to find benefit in the global trading system must also take the responsibility of playing by the rules.
The private sector has responsibilities as well. For instance, it should not be the responsibility of government to dictate the salaries of bankers or the ownership of companies. And yet, due of the excesses committed by some, this is exactly where we find ourselves now because government now owns substantial portions of the private economy – even, unbelievably, in the United States.
These are challenging times for everyone, but we in the United States must humbly recognize that if we are to lead and to set the direction for the rest of the world, it must be by our example and not merely our words. And we must tread lightly when imposing new burdens on the imports of other countries.
…..My country is definitely at a crossroad. Polling in the U.S. shows a majority of Americans no longer believe that their children will have a better future than they have had…that is a 1st.
When members of America’s greatest generation – the World War II generation – lose their homes and their life savings because their retirement funds were wiped after the financial collapse, people feel a great anger. There is suddenly a growing sentiment to just “throw the bums out” of Washington, D.C. – and by bums they mean the Republicans and the Democrats. Americans are suffering from pay cuts and job losses, and they want to know why their elected leaders are not tightening their belts. It’s not lost on people that Congress voted to exempt themselves from the health care plan they are thrusting on the rest of the nation. There is a growing sense of frustration on Main Street. But even in the midst of crisis and despair, we see signs of hope.
In fact, it’s a sea change in America, I believe. Recently, there have been protests by ordinary Americans who marched on Washington to demand their government stop spending away their future. Large numbers of ordinary, middle-class Democrats, Republicans, and Independents from all over the country marching on Washington?! You know something’s up!
These are the same people who flocked to the town halls this summer to face their elected officials who were home on hiatus from that distant capital and were now confronted with the people they represent. Big town hall meetings – video clips circulating coverage – people watching, feeling not so alone anymore.
The town halls and the Tea Party movement are both part of a growing grassroots consciousness among ordinary Americans who’ve decided that if they want real change, they must take the lead and not wait to be led. Real change – and, you know, you don’t need a title to do it.
The “Tea Party Movement” is aptly named to remind people of the American Revolution – of colonial patriots who shook off the yoke of a distant government and declared their freedom from indifferent – elitist – rulers who limited their progress and showed them no respect. Today, Main Street Americans see Washington in similar terms.
When my country again achieves financial stability and economic growth – when we roar back to life as we shall do – it will be thanks in large part to the hard work and common sense of these ordinary Americans who are demanding that government spend less and tax less and allow the private sector to grow and prosper.
We’re not interested in government fixes; we’re interested in freedom! Freedom! Our vision is forward looking. People may be frustrated now, but we’re very hopeful too.
And, after all, why shouldn’t we be? We’re Americans. We’re always hopeful.
~Sarah Palin
There was no such attempt by the Democrats in 2006 or 2008. If the job losses continue to accumulate nothing will save the Democrats yet the point is well taken. The Republican Party is still viewed negatively. The public does not want the president prescribes for healthcare. They don’t like the limitless spending or government takeover of businesses. They are also not happy about the Afghanistan conflict. A “Political Warranty” maybe exactly what the doctor order to make them a viable political party again especially in areas they have not been competitive in recently. Why not give it some real teeth and have a money back guarantee provision. That if they don’t deliver on their agenda they will not run for reelection.
For Obama, "bi-partisanship" is a polite way of saying, " Do what I tell you to do."
How about the old Newt? He looks rested and ready whenever I see him on Fox News.
"Republicans must warranty (sic) that they will be most committed to legislation that furthers the battle against discrimination of all kinds. Further the warranty must make it clear that the party will not tolerate bigotry of any sort within its ranks."
I guess that's the passage that comes closest to supporting Carolyn's premise. If it smells like affirmative action…
Hey, there's nothing easier than setting target goals for 2020.
By 2020 I plan to have a flying car that extracts hydrogen gas from tap water for fuel, and releases pure oxygen into the air as a byproduct.
That's my target goal. See how easy that was?
Nice article, Joseph. But I notice a lack of specifics emanating from the Obamoracle Himself. Principles are the key. Obama is showing his — anti-individual, anti-freedom, pro-state. I think a forthright presentation of our principles, and how the Democrats are violating them, is just as, if not more, important than specific policies.
And Republicans must show that they will not tolerate bigotry within its ranks? Who's showing bigotry, besides Obama (Gates), Pelosi (swastikas), Carter, Sharpton, Wright, etc.? The bigotry is coming from the Democrats. Why don't we demand that they not tolerate bigotry?
Tom, and Carolyn, I guess I am a bit naive. I went back and reread the article and
instead of giving him the benefit of the doubt I took what he said straight on it reads
a bit different than I originally understood. No talk of tax cuts, I don't buy that one.
Taking back the educational system sounds good but what is his intention of doing with it.
Sensitivity training classes each school year? He sounds little like Lindsay Graham from SC.
If Republicans were only more like the democrats. I'll have to read up on Mr. Phillips.
Thanks Tom
Republicans need to articulate Conservative policies and eviscerate the leftwing failed policies obama is hell bent on shoving down our throats.
This jugeared clown has finally laid down the gauntlet. Did he demand Iran give up its nuclear development or face serious consequences? No. Did he demand that congress pass legislation to help small businesses – that employ 80% of working Americans- in the wake of another 500,000+ jobs lost last month? No. Has he demanded congress give General McChrystal everything he needs to win the war in Afghanistan? No.
Obama has laid the gauntlet down on mother nature; he has declared war on weather.
“US President Barack Obama ordered the US government Monday to lead by example on climate change, requiring all federal agencies to set 2020 targets to cut greenhouse gas emissions within 90 days.”
16.7% real unemployment and this leftwing eunuch is worried about the weather.
America, you got punked.
I agree,but who is Mr Philips asking these questions to? Right now we have two parties, Republican and conservatives. I don't think the conservatives have anyone actually committed and willing to take the lead.
I realize it is early but while the Republicans may be willing to take the lead on just such a program they haven't got conservatives on there side and in the pocket yet. There will not be a third party I'm sure but unless the Repubs do some fence mending, the Northeastern Repubs are still there and influencing Mr. Steele. I may be a lone person here but I am not going to vote for a Presidential candidate unless we have non rear kiss straight ahead firm leadership. The last election taught me a lot about leadership we didn't have and I'm not going to go thru that again, voluntarily.
The Republicans have been offering other solutions the whole time. I just don't think they are being heard. Also there is that silly in-fighting between the McCain "Progressive" Republicans and the true conservative republicans which does the party no good.
The problem is that the "Progressives" have no chance of winning but continue to stereotype conservative republicans as "Unprogressives." How does that help?
McCain had his chance. It didn't work. He should leave the debate to the conservatives who have the wind behind their sails. two cents.
And that attitude will hand elections directly to the Democrats. So go ahead and cut of your nose to spite your face. A third party movement would do exactly the same thing. If you don't want the Democrats in power (maybe forever) you have no choice but to vote Republican. The party is far more important than the person When you understand how congress works.
And that attitude will hand elections directly to the Democrats. So go ahead and cut off your nose to spite your face. A third party movement would do exactly the same thing. If you don't want the Democrats in power (maybe forever) you have no choice but to vote Republican. The party is far more important than the person When you understand how congress works.
And the point is?
How about the "War on Drugs". I am not supporting Common_man, I am just saying that there is a rathole into which our tax dollars are thrown and there are no visible results. Unless of course you consider the prison construction industry stimulating.
You are right ! The sooner we start sweeping–the better!
Rich,
Vague vague vague! Would you like to support just one of your assertions with specific details?
Good point, Alist. I would like "Common Man" to provide a short list of social issues he feels the Republicans are too hard-right on; I guess it would be stuff like legalization of pot and gay marriage? How many people who would otherwise vote Republican are being turned off by those issues?
I like Sarah. But be careful, that image is damaged. It will be hard to repair Sarah's image and she has a lot of homework to do. She can't be caught off by some wank like Gibson again she must respond as if she is the worlds foremost authority and possibly even belittle such wanks. Picking Sarah will be an uphill battle with a questionable outcome.
Where do you think the Bash Sarah Palin campaign started? It was not the sole pervue of Democrats it also came from the established Republican Elite. The reason I do not name names is because I am always hesitant to accuse anyone by name of anything. I like to wait until all facts are known to specifically name names. If you want to know more, look it up your self. It is not my job to educate you but to sahre an opinion.
Where do you think the Bash Sarah Palin campaign started? It was not the sole pervue of Democrats it also came from the established Republican Elite. The reason I do not name names is because I am always hesitant to accuse anyone by name of anything. I like to wait until all facts are known to specifically name names. If you want to know more, look it up your self. It is not my job to educate you but to share an opinion.
"discrimination of all kinds" = liberal speak for blacks, gays, and women.
Seriously, NOBODY wants to eliminate discrimination of ALL kinds. Think about it for a minute. When you sit down at Hooters for a beer and hot wings, do you want your server to be a dude in a tight midriff top? Well, that's discrimination. How cool would you be with an 85-year-old airline pilot? Or a school bus driver who had grand mal seizures? Those are both forms of discrimination. I much prefer Papa John's pizza to the inferior product served by Pizza Hut. That's because of my discriminating palate.
There's good discrimination and bad discrimination.
Now, I'm not saying that blacks, gays, and women SHOULD be discriminated against; I'm just saying that, if that's what we're talking about let's just say it. We don't need the euphemistic "discrimination of all kinds".
Sorry I have to disagree and for the record I don't think Carolyn knows anything about Phillips. My sense is that she is reading quite a bit into what Phillips wrote. I am curious as to why being against discrimination of any kind "smells" like affirmative action? I took a visit to Phillips website and read a numbr of his columns from over the past couple years. Not one supports Carolyns contentions. And several show him staunchly against racial preferences.
As for Tax cuts…the way I read it is that if tax cuts is all republicans have to offer that will be a bad thing…and I would have to agree.
As I said a third party is a kiss of death for the Repubs, so would a Lindsay Graham
or similar McCain style candidate. I wouldn't vote for a democrat if your life depended upon it.
However, I will not vote for a McCain style candidate either. We lose when we do that and if that is what
the Repubs want to do is lose they will do it on their own. The balance of the ticket we "may" have some room for negotiation but not at the top.
Carolyn, I went back and checked out Mr.Phillips website. I have to agree he is concerned about black real or imagined issues almost to the exclusion of all else. Please see my response below to Nick if
you care to.
Thanks Carolyn.
Carolyn, I went back and checked out Mr.Phillips website. I have to agree he is concerned about black real or imagined issues almost to the exclusion of all else. Please see my response above to Nick if
you care to.
Thanks Carolyn.
Personally I think the GOP is laying low as an election strategy, and I think its a good one. Any big name republican hitting the air waves will be attacked mercilessly in order to divert attention away from the president's actions. With him and his fellow democrats blanketing the air waves, Remember how they went after Rush? All about diversion.
That being said, I wasn't particularly impressed by the contract with America. I thought it just a publicity stunt.
I grew up a democrat, and so I know them inside and out, but I don't have a good grasp of the GOP yet. Democrats are not a cohesive party, they are a cartel of factions, that agree to pretend they don't contradict each other. That's how you get pro-life Catholics and pro-abortion feminists at the same table. The Catholics pretend the feminists aren't pro-abortion, and the feminists pretend Catholics aren't pro-life.
It seems to me what the GOP needs is some one like Reagan, in that, he had appeal to all the various factions on the right, fiscal conservatives, small government, pro-life, evangelicals, etc.
No single faction on the right is large enough to win the White House, just as no single faction on the left can either. McCain lost the fiscal conservatives and the small government faction, and I think he only mildly attracted evangelicals.
Find some one who can unite all the factions for at least 5 years, and you've got the White House.
Now is the wrong time to lay out the agenda. It just gives the Democrats something to lie about and misrepresent, and you know that everybody but Fox will help them lie and distort. With the Republicans saying nothing for now, the focus stays on the Democrats total insanity. When they fall on their face and this President is safely a lame duck, the proposals will come out.
I have John Thune in my facebook feed and I think that he is being groomed for a run in 2012. He's leading the opposition with a call to end TARP now and get the government out of the auto industry. If when the time comes he is the man that makes the pitch on health care reform, he's going to become my bet for the 2012 nominee. He's young, handsome, serious and honest with a squeaky-clean background.
I think it's worth pointing out that we've never had a madman as President, let alone a madman as President with a madwoman Speaker. That's going to do a lot to motivate everyone remotely in touch with reality to get out and vote Republican.
Yes!! I understand McCain wants to reshape the party in his image. Why not in the image of David Brooks, David Frum, Joe Scarbourgh, Lindsey Graham or Bill Frist? Screw those losers. You can't compromise with the radicals in control now. The current Congress Repubs are seriously lacking credibility. That's why I want Gingrich back. He led the convervatives in the '94 revolution, he can do it again.
That's what the Libertarian Party is for.
Oh, I definitely agree. The 2010 election cycle is going to be riveting.
I think it was Cal Thomas who wrote that Americans are very decent people, and when Obama came around, after eight years of GOP rule, the electorate was basically willing to give the new guy the benefit of the doubt.
I think they've already used up that benefit. Now will be the time to see what middle America, the real America, thinks about Obama.
And that attitude will hand elections directly to the Democrats. So go ahead and cut off your nose to spite your face. A third party movement would do exactly the same thing. If you don't want the Democrats in power (maybe forever) you have no choice but to vote Republican. The party is far more important than the person when you understand how congress works. I am pretty sure the Democrats understand this and act accordinly.
I also spent an hour or so on his website and while I didn't see where he is actually
mentioned affirmative action, he spent 80/90% (estimated)of his time over the 2 years or so of correspondence discussing nothing but feigned or real black equality issues. if you look at his links or references there is no mention (or I missed them) of Thomas Sowell or Clarence Thomas who, by the way, are against affirmative action. He doesn't mention equality for all, he seems to me to be concerned about mostly Blacks. I would guess we have a conservative Jesse Jackson? A Conservative that doesn't believe in tax cuts as a way to stimulate the economy? I'm sorry I question if they are indeed conservatives.
"I am curious as to why being against discrimination of any kind "smells" like affirmative action?"
Well, because the argument for affirmative action has always been that blacks and other minorities have been historically discriminated against; therefore, affirmative action is a justified methodology to right that societal injustice.
Please note: I'm not saying that's what Phillips believes. I simply cited the above passage as what 'Carolyn' was most likely referring to in her original post.
Legalization of marijuana, gay marriage (really who the f*ck cares?) and abortion to name three.
"Nice try" gets plus 3 and my comment gets a minus 7? WTF?
Me for one. I am not gay, I believe abortion is an abomination and should only be performed in extreme situations (not as a form of birth control) but I don't like the Federal Government sticking its nose in and determining what I can and cannot do (that's why I could never be a Democrat). The far right is just as culpable for the nanny state we live in as the far left is.
Also, the War on Drugs is a complete joke waste of money. Are there any less drugs coming into this country because of this fictional war? No, there's more. If drugs were legalized would the tax base grow? Yes, it would.
Btw, the state of California estimates they will be able to tax $13-14 billion dollars (that's a B) of medical marijuana sales this year. That's approximately a tenth of the budget.
Old Tom, like you I believe strongly in personal responsibility and the liberties that are supposed to come with it. But I know that if I expect to have my own liberties others are entitled to their's even if I don't agree with/value what they pursue. I don't need the state to tell me what's right and what's wrong.
Unfortunately, whizbang, you did support my argument. The War on Drugs is a great example. Now quit acting like such a pussy.
New blood in the government is an absolute necessity, Mom4nohate!
But I'd be leery of Sarah Palin. Not only is she nearly as underqualified as Obama, she has proven herself to be disingenuous in debate. As much as I am opposed to the government having anything to do with health care (I'm not even convinced they should be running the Post Office) she lied about the "death panels." I assume she was using the term "death panel" as a fear tactic.
As soon as someone is dishonest in debate, they lose my support.
The US citizens need to evaluate the candidates on substance rather than style. Too often, we as a nation vote for the person who "looks the part."
I think I mentioned three. Here are the other two:
1) Gay marriage- if homosexuals were in the majority and wanted to prohibit you (I'm assuming you're hetero) from marrying, would you tolerate it? I wouldn't. So why should they?
2) Abortion- as I stated earlier, I feel abortion is unnatural (contrary to the laws of nature). But my "gut feeling" doesn't prove when human life begins. Some people believe it begins at conception. Some believe it begins in the third tri-mester. Some believe it's not a human life until birth. My point is there is no scientific basis to determine when human life begins. Therefore it is a point of personal faith/conviction. The government (Republicans in this case) have no business making determinations in matters of faith/conviction.
I thought the "Libertarian Party" was to give hygenically-challenged 30-year-olds something to do in between downloading porn in their parents' basements.
Those are great points, Tom.
From what I know from the history of the 1920's in this country, prohibition only compounds the problem. Believe it or not, alcohol consumption actually went up when it was made illegal. In the Holland, where marijuana is decriminalized, 15.6% of the population have used it. In the USA 32.9% have used it.
Clearly, making something illegal does not mean people won't use it. What we lose is the tax revenue from the sale. That money goes into the hands of organized crime which faithfully there to fill the void.
Sarah Palin has never been dishonest to my knowledge. If you know of a specific example, please give it. I am always ready to listen or admit I am wrong, but I need documented, verifiable information not just repeated from another blog.
1. Gay Marriage. You're taking a libertarian point of view here, and I can understand that, but in the context of soceity this issue is much more complex. What do you do in the situation a the Catholic Adoption agency? Do they have the right to tell the gay couple, no sorry, we consider what you are doing a sin and we cannot offer a child to you? Who has the right to teach a child about sexuality and mores and morals? The public school or the parents?
If we had an across the board libertarian based society, I think these problems would work themselves out, but we don't.
2. My point is there is no scientific basis to determine when human life begins. This is clearly incorrect. We know this because a doctor can declare you dead, so he uses a criteria that determines you are in fact alive. Why wouldn't that be our standard?
1. Gay Marriage. You're taking a libertarian point of view here, and I can understand that, but in the context of soceity this issue is much more complex. What do you do in the situation of the Catholic Adoption agency? Do they have the right to tell the gay couple, no sorry, we consider what you are doing a sin and we cannot offer a child to you? Who has the right to teach a child about sexuality and mores and morals? The public school or the parents?
If we had an across the board libertarian based society, I think these problems would work themselves out, but we don't.
2. My point is there is no scientific basis to determine when human life begins. This is clearly incorrect. We know this because a doctor can declare you dead, so he uses a criteria that determines you are in fact alive. Why wouldn't that be our standard?
Fair enough. I asked for a short list of social issues. Apparently the list is comprised of:
1) Legalization of marijuana.
Is that it, essentially? I'm not trying to be contentious, and I believe very much in personal freedom along with personal responsibility. Any real political conservative has to be libertarian on social issues, at least in terms of public policy. "Limited size and scope of the Federal Government" is a conservative absolute.
Here's something really contentious: I think to maintain moral and intellectual consistency the government should either legalize recreational marijuana or criminalize tobacco smoking. Let's be real: if tobacco were a newly discovered product, is there a snowball's chance it would ever be approved for human consumption by the FDA?
How does the fact that tobacco is a multi-billion dollar industry change the moral truth of that observation?
Hey, I didn't see this post tucked down here before I answered your later post above.
Those are basically the "big three" modern social issues; marijuana and gay marriage, I believe should be handled as states' rights issues by legislative action, not by the overactive imaginings of a liberal activist judiciary. Ref. California's recent activity to see how well that works in practice.
Abortion, as a FEDERAL issue, hinges on a rational, scientific and legally defensible definition of the presence of life. I believe this is as simple as the existence of heartbeat and brainwave pattern; as these are the two criteria used to legally certify the cessation of life, or "non-being", why would they not work as well to certify being?
All human life deserves equal protection under the law.
Hey Mom4no hate!
You should check out Charles Krauthammer. He is a columnist for the Washington Post. You can link to his articles through realclearpolitcs.com. He and George Will are my fav's right now, very articulate and thoughtful in the real sense of the word.
Anyway, I read a piece by him were he (a conservative) criticized Palin for her use of the term "death panels." After reading the article I had to agree with him that her use of the term was disengenuous.
Hi Common!
I am familiar with Krauthammer and I think he has a really good point. While Sarah Palin should not have used the term "death panel", do you really think it's an outright lie?
Thought about it a sec. If she used the term intentionally to scare people, then that would be a lie. Was it intentional or was it her actual fear?
Those are great points, Tom.
From what I know from the history of the 1920's in this country, prohibition only compounds the problem. Believe it or not, alcohol consumption actually went up when it was made illegal. In Holland, where marijuana is decriminalized, 15.6% of the population have used it. In the USA 32.9% have used it.
Clearly, making something illegal does not mean people won't use it. What we lose is the tax revenue from the sale. That money goes into the hands of organized crime which is faithfully there to fill the void.
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