Obama: 'The time to take charge of our future is here'
Associated Press
Published February 24, 2009 at 5:35 a.m.
Photo by Mark Wilson © Getty
U.S. President Barack Obama, flanked by U.S. Vice President Joe Biden (L) and Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi (R), acknowledges applause as he arrives in the House chambers to address a joint meeting of the two legislative houses February 24, 2009 at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, DC. In his remarks Obama was expected to address the topics of the struggling U.S. economy, the budget deficit, and health care.
Mark Wilson © Getty
U.S. President Barack Obama (R) greets members of the U.S. Congress before addressing a joint meeting of the two legislative houses February 24, 2009 at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, DC. In his remarks Obama was expected to address the topics of the struggling U.S. economy, the budget deficit, and health care.
WASHINGTON — Standing before the nation on a "day of reckoning," President Barack Obama summoned politicians and public alike Tuesday night to forge a path out of the worst economic disaster in a quarter-century by embracing shared sacrifice and costly new endeavors to improve health care, schools and the environment.
"The time to take charge of our future is here," Obama declared in his first address to a joint session of Congress, watched by millions of worried Americans on television and the Internet.
Adding words of reassurance, he said, "Tonight I want every American to know this: We will rebuild, we will recover, and the United States of America will emerge stronger than before."
Obama had to wade his way into a chamber packed with lawmakers eager to welcome the nation's first black president into a Capitol built by slaves. The House gallery included a special section hosted by first lady Michelle Obama, where guests served as living symbols of the president's goals. Cramming the floor was virtually the entire leadership of the federal government, including Supreme Court justices, led by Ruth Bader Ginsberg, back on the bench only this week after cancer surgery, and all but one Cabinet member, held away in case disaster struck. Obama's 52-minute speech was interrupted 61 times by applause.
To deal with the current economic crisis, deepening each day, the president said more money would be needed to rescue troubled banks beyond the $700 billion already committed last year. He said he knows that bailout billions for banks are unpopular — "I promise you, I get it," he said — but he also insisted it was the only way to get credit moving again to households and businesses, the lifeblood of the American economy.
Along with aid for banks, he also called on Congress to move quickly on legislation to overhaul regulations on the nation's financial markets.
"I ask this Congress to join me in doing whatever proves necessary," Obama said. "Because we cannot consign our nation to an open-ended recession."
With U.S. automakers struggling for survival, Obama also said he would allow neither their demise nor "their own bad practices" to be rewarded. "I believe the nation that invented the automobile cannot walk away from it," he said.
Thinking longer-term, Obama said in a speech lacking many specifics that both political parties must give up favored programs while uniting behind his campaign promises to help the millions without health insurance, build better schools and move the nation to more-efficient fuel use. He skipped the traditional litany of new programs common in such speeches but spoke on broad generalities about goals and themes that formed the backbone of his presidential campaign.
Just five weeks after his inauguration, Obama addressed an ebullient Democratic congressional majority and an embattled but reinvigorated GOP minority as well as anxious viewers at home. Despite the nation's economic worries and the failure so far of his effort to draw support for his plans from more than a handful of Republican lawmakers, Obama enjoys strong approval ratings across the nation.
Bobby Jindal, Louisiana's young, charismatic governor who is considered a potential 2012 presidential candidate, was chosen to deliver the televised GOP response. He exhorted fellow Republicans to be Obama's "strongest partners" when they agree with him. But he signaled that won't happen much, calling the $787 billion stimulus package "irresponsible."
"The way to lead is not to raise taxes and put more money and power in hands of Washington politicians," Jindal said. "Who among us would ask our children for a loan, so we could spend money we do not have, on things we do not need?"
Still, mindful of the public's optimism about Obama's leadership, Jindal, as well as other Republicans, took care to focus criticism primarily on Congress' Democratic leaders, not on the president.
Pre-speech, Wall Street was in a better mood than it had been in for days: Stocks were up after Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke said the recession might end this year.
But Obama spoke as bad economic news continued to pile up, felt all too keenly in U.S. homes and businesses. Some 3.6 million jobs have disappeared in the recession that ranks as the biggest job destroyer in the post-World War II period. Americans have lost trillions of dollars in retirement, college and savings accounts, with the stock market falling nearly half from its peak of 16 months ago.
New polls — some with Obama's public support rising and others with it dropping — show that the political climate can be as precarious as the economic one. So Obama reached for both candor and can-do, blending the kind of grim honesty that has become his trademark since taking office with a greater emphasis on optimism.
"The weight of this crisis will not determine the destiny of this nation," he said.
The central argument of his speech was that his still-unfolding economic revival plan has room for — even demands — a broader agenda. This is the big chore of his young presidency, and Obama's hope was that he can begin to persuade the country that the longer-term items on his presidential agenda are as important to the nation's economic well-being as unchoking credit and turning around unemployment numbers.
"The only way this century will be another American century is if we confront at last the price of our dependence on oil and the high cost of health care, the schools that aren't preparing our children and the mountain of debt they stand to inherit," Obama said.
He urged lawmakers to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases that cause climate change by creating a cap-and-trade system of limits and pollution allowances. And he said the budget he is sending to Congress on Thursday will call for $15 billion a year in federal spending to spur development of environmentally friendly but so far cost-ineffective energy sources such as wind and solar, biofuels, clean coal and more fuel-efficient vehicles.
He said his budget request also will create new incentives for teacher performance and support for innovative education programs. He asked every American to commit to completing a year or more of higher education or career training.
In contrast to many State of the Union addresses by George W. Bush, Obama did not emphasize foreign policy. He touched on his intention to chart new strategies in Iraq and Afghanistan and to forge a new image for the U.S. around the world even as he keeps up the fight against terrorism.
With the economy dominant, Obama said the mess was one he inherited. "We have lived through an era where too often, short-term gains were prized over long-term prosperity, where we failed to look beyond the next payment, the next quarter or the next election," he said.
Nonetheless, he aimed to show he is tackling the situation with both urgency and strict oversight for how the staggering sums are being spent. The massive stimulus plan, an overhaul of the financial sector bailout, and a $275 billion rescue for struggling homeowners are already in place, and more is likely on the way, Obama said.
Even as Washington pours money into the economic recovery, Obama said the budget deficit, at $1.3 trillion and ballooning, must be brought under control.
He promised he would slash it by half by the end of his term in 2013, mostly by ending U.S. combat in Iraq and eliminating some of Bush's tax cuts for the wealthy. He said his budget officials have identified a total of $2 trillion in savings over the next 10 years, also including ending education programs "that don't work" and payments to large agribusinesses "that don't need them," eliminating wasteful no-bid contracts in Iraq and spending on weapons systems no longer needed in the post-Cold War era, and rooting out waste in Medicare.
"Everyone in this chamber, Democrats and Republicans, will have to sacrifice some worthy priorities for which there are no dollars," he said. "And that includes me."
He touted his decision to end the practice of leaving Iraq and Afghanistan war spending out of the main budget. "For seven years, we have been a nation at war. No longer will we hide its price," Obama said.
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February 24, 2009
7:12 a.m.
Suggest removal
Uno writes:
"The president has also said reforming health care, including burgeoning entitlement programs, is a huge priority." - and just who is going to pay for this? And for how long?
February 24, 2009
7:17 a.m.
Suggest removal
taoistblockhead writes:
The "Americans want bipartisanship" myth
http://www.salon.com/opinion/greenwald/
“The political establishment has never come to terms with, and the media establishment just refuses to acknowledge, how deeply unpopular and discredited the GOP is among most Americans in the wake of the eight-year Bush disaster. Political and media elites don't want to acknowledge that because they lent their continuous support for eight years to Republican power, yet -- even with Bush gone -- it's scarcely possible to imagine how a major political party could be held in lower esteem among voters. By huge margins (63-29%), Americans believe the GOP opposed Obama's stimulus package for political reasons, not because they genuinely believed it would be bad for the economy; they overwhelmingly disapprove of Congressional Republicans (38-56%) while approving of Obama (68-25%) and even Congressional Democrats (50-44%); trust Obama over Congressional Republicans to handle the economy (61-26%); and trust Democrats over Republicans "to do a better job in coping with the main problems the nation faces over the next few years" (56-30%). Those are enormous margins.”
February 24, 2009
7:49 a.m.
Suggest removal
Classof80 writes:
Profile In Incompetence
Jimmy Carter became our 39th president at the young age of 52. He was a one-term governor from Plains, GA, where he managed the family peanut farm and taught Sunday school. He was also a graduate of the Naval Academy and served seven years in the Navy, leaving as a lieutenant.
He came to power in the aftermath of the Vietnam War and the resignation of President Nixon. The public wanted change and someone new, and Carter was an ambitious, hands-on politician who promised better days. As good as his intentions were, however, the things he tried were not successful. In fact, he created far more serious problems than he ever solved.
The centerpiece of Carter's foreign policy was human rights, and he did achieve one noble success - a peace treaty between Egypt’s Anwar Sadat and Israel’s Meacham Begin.
Unfortunately, that later led to Sadat's assassination at the hands of Muslim radicals.
Many people felt Carter was a good man who worked hard and meant well. But he was naive and incompetent in handling the enormous burdens and complex challenges of being president.
He wrongly believed Americans had an 'inordinate fear of communism', so he lifted travel bans to Cuba, North Vietnam and Cambodia and pardoned draft evaders. He also stopped B-1 bomber production and gave away our strategically located Panama Canal.
His most damaging miscalculation was the withdrawal of U.S. support for the Shah of Iran, a strong and longtime military ally. Carter objected to the Shah's alleged mistreatment of imprisoned Soviet spies who were working to overthrow Iran’s government. He thought the exiled Ayatollah Khomeini, being a religious man, would make a fairer leader.
Having lost U.S. support, the Shah was overthrown, the Ayatollah returned, Iran was declared an Islamic nation and Palestinian hit men were hired to eliminate opposition.
The Ayatollah then introduced the idea of suicide bombers to the Palestine Liberation Organization, paying $35,000 to PLO families whose young people were brainwashed to kill as many Israelis as possible by blowing themselves up in crowded shopping areas. Next, the Ayatollah used Iran’s oil wealth to create, train and finance a new terrorist organization, Hezbollah, which later would attack Israel in 2006.
In November 1979, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and other Iranians stormed the U.S. embassy in Tehran and took 52 Americans hostage for 444 days. Not until six months into the ordeal did Carter attempt a rescue. But the mission, using just six Navy helicopters, was poorly executed. Three of the copters were disabled or lost in sandstorms. (Pilots weren't allowed to meet with weather forecasters because someone in authority worried about security.) Five airmen and three Marines lost their lives.
February 24, 2009
7:50 a.m.
Suggest removal
Classof80 writes:
So, due to overconfidence, inexperience and poor judgment, Carter undermined and lost a strong ally, Iran, that today aggressively threatens the U.S., Israel and the rest of the world with nuclear weapons.
But that's not all. After Carter met for the first time with Soviet leader Leonid Brezhnev, the USSR promptly invaded Afghanistan. Carter, ever the naive appeaser, was shocked. 'I can't believe the Russians lied to me,' he said.
The invasion attracted a 23-year-old Saudi named Osama bin Laden to Afghanistan to recruit Muslim fighters and raise money for an anti-Soviet jihad. Part of that group eventually became al-Qaida, a terrorist organization that would declare war on America several times between 1996 and 1998 before attacking us on 9/11, killing more Americans than the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor.
On Carter's watch, the Soviet Union went on an unrestrained rampage in which it took over not only Afghanistan, but also Ethiopia, South Yemen, Angola, Cambodia, Mozambique, Grenada and Nicaragua. In spite of this, Carter's last defense budget proposed spending 45% below pre-Vietnam levels for fighter aircraft, 75% for ships, 83% for attack submarines and 90% for helicopters.
Years later, as a civilian, Carter negotiated a peace agreement with North Korea to keep that communist country from developing nuclear weapons. He also convinced President Clinton and Secretary of State Madeleine Albright to go along with it. But the signed piece of paper proved worthless. The North Koreans deceived Carter and instead used our money, incentives and technical equipment to build nuclear weapons and pose the threat we face today.
Thus did Carter unwittingly become our Neville Chamberlain, creating with his well-intended but inept, unrealistic and gullible actions the very conditions that led to the three most dangerous security threats we face today: Iran, al- Qaida and North Korea.
February 24, 2009
7:52 a.m.
Suggest removal
Classof80 writes:
On the domestic side, Carter gave us inflation of 15%, the highest in 34 years; interest rates of 21%, the highest in 115 years; and a severe energy crisis with lines around the block at gas stations nationwide.
In 1977, Carter, along with a Democrat Congress, created a worthy project with noble intentions the Community Reinvestment Act. Over strong industry objections, it mandated that all banks meet the credit needs of their entire communities.
In 1995, President Clinton imposed even stronger regulations and performance tests that coerced banks to substantially increase loans to low-income, poverty-area borrowers or face fines or possible restrictions on expansion. These revisions allowed for securitization of CRA loans containing subprime mortgages.
By 1997, good loans were bundled with poor ones and sold as prime packages to institutions here and abroad. That shifted risk from the loan originators, freeing banks to begin pyramiding and make more of these profitable subprime products.
Under two young, well-intended presidents, therefore, big-government plans and mandates played a significant role in the current subprime mortgage mess and its catastrophic consequences for the U.S. and international economies.
Hardest-hit by the mortgage foreclosures have been the citizens that Democrats always claim to help most inner-city residents who fell victim to low or no down payment schemes, unexpected adjustable rates, deceptive loan applications and commission-hungry salespeople.
Now we have to bail out at huge cost Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, the very agencies that were supposed to stabilize the system. In time, this should improve the situation. But the party of Carter and Clinton that midwifed our mortgage mess now wants to be trusted to take over and have the government run our entire system of health care!
Don't forget his "incompetent" interventions in the elections of Nicaragua (Daniel Ortega), the elections of Venezuela (Hugo Chavez) and his "stupid" decisions with Cuba (Fidel Castro).
This should shed some light on where the blame should go for our current problems.
February 24, 2009
7:59 a.m.
Suggest removal
INC writes:
when it comes to propaganda, posters who post ARTICLES longer than the original article show themselves as the real propagandists...
this is YOU Classof80.
BTW Carter has not held power for 35 years. make a note of it.
February 24, 2009
8:05 a.m.
Suggest removal
leavemealone writes:
Obama could sell suntan oil to an Eskimo!
Between Congress & Obama we are in for a rough ride.
Can't wait for more of the same this evening.
February 24, 2009
8:17 a.m.
Suggest removal
Now_You_Know writes:
The GOP has no leadership, a broken party if you will.
As long as the voice of the GOP comes from the neocon AM radio they will never win! All they do is promote fear and want to divide our Country more and more.
It is funny how they will say Obama name 500 times. Not one time will they talk about a Retardican who will bring our Country together.Because they dont have one.
If they are not part of the solution they are part of the problem!
Crazy mad white men.....
February 24, 2009
8:26 a.m.
Suggest removal
gweetarman writes:
democrats = youth and ignorance
republicans = maturity and wisdom
February 24, 2009
8:32 a.m.
Suggest removal
Now_You_Know writes:
Sleepalone
We know how you feel, as long as you have a (R) next to your name you can never do wrong. The Retardicans are perfect. Bush never made a mistake and is one of the best.
This problem belongs to Carter and Clinton...
So please tell me who from the party of never do bad will get our Country out of this problem.....Think hard...still thinking.....Palin..haha...who...That is why you got your @ss kicked in 08..
Better stick to haten on Obama...Fear and division the GOP way.
February 24, 2009
8:38 a.m.
Suggest removal
LockNLoad writes:
So Nobama likes to lecture Americans on fiscal responsibility, and yet he planas to spend an additional $400+ billion in a secodn spending plan very soon.
In 30 days in office, he and his liberal thugs have doubled the national debt by forcing thier socialism policies on the country inthe name of "stimulus".
Somehow this disaster of a president doesn't listen to his own words. Or, he thinks Americans are a bunch of brainless sheep ready for slaughter.
I think the terms for that are HYPOCRIT and Socialist Marxist!
February 24, 2009
8:56 a.m.
Suggest removal
leavemealone writes:
Obama's spending has just started! We ain't seen nothing yet.
The past few weeks is a drop in the bucket in comparison to the next few years.
February 24, 2009
9 a.m.
Suggest removal
leavemealone writes:
Now_I_Don't_Know_anything_except_what_Bill_Mahr_tells_me,
America wants Obama to actually do something smart & different.
America wants Congress to actually do something other than spend money we don't have.
February 24, 2009
9:04 a.m.
Suggest removal
Triumph writes:
Oh Boy! More urgent fear mongering concerning his socialist no solution economic plans for our Nation and Republic. If you believe this tax and spend far left Democrat is going to cut the national deficit in half in 4 years you must really believe he is the messiah that walks on water. Ask yourself with his huge pork filled stimulus package and bailouts were is all this deficit money going to come from. Heaven or the American taxpayer and that includes the groupies that follow him around like lemmings.
The good thing is that the American is getting used to hearing his flawless speeches and sales pitches and are starting to see they are all the same old huckster methods that got him elected. Nobody has seen any real change or hope so far.
I think his pitch is going to bomb tonight. SOS!
February 24, 2009
9:09 a.m.
Suggest removal
LockNLoad writes:
Get prepared for tax increases for everyone who pays taxes, and tax rebates for those who don't. This is the only way he will be able to reduce this massice deficit that he has grown to record levels.
It's Nobama's idea of redistribution of wealth.
There is something basically wrong with his thinking where achievers have to support the non-achievers.
February 24, 2009
9:22 a.m.
Suggest removal
HisPrinceMichael writes:
Truly, there are a few things more irrelevant and ineffective than
the non-stop huckster-ism of a glorified Chicago politician.
En Masse resignations, NOW.
THE Battle, has just BEGUN:
http://www.all4webs.com/q/f/love4yahweh
February 24, 2009
9:43 a.m.
Suggest removal
primafacie writes:
The Obama says he'll cut the trillion-dollar deficit in half in four years ... conveniently leaving out the trillion or more he's piling on top of that.
Oh, and he says we need to spend more responsibly. The $800 billion stimulus had no comment.
February 24, 2009
9:57 a.m.
Suggest removal
JluvDC writes:
I'm hoping to hear less complaining about Pres. Bush creating this mess and some optimism that anything they are doing will solve it. Election is over...you won....move on!
February 24, 2009
9:59 a.m.
Suggest removal
BenchBoss writes:
gweetarman wrote:
"democrats = youth and ignorance
republicans = maturity and wisdom"
gweetarman = oversimplifying, stereotyping fool
February 24, 2009
10:13 a.m.
Suggest removal
HisPrinceMichael writes:
Benchboss wrote "gweetarman wrote: democrats =youth and ignorance
republicans=maturity and wisodom
gweetarman=oversimplyfying, sterotyping fool
HisPrinceMichael writes:
Pseudo-liberalism + $$$= Democrats
Pseudo-conservatism + $$$= Republicans
Pseudo-independence + $ = Independents
THE Battle, has just BEGUN:
http://www.all4webs.com/q/f/love4yahweh
February 24, 2009
10:29 a.m.
Suggest removal
BenchBoss writes:
Pseudo-intellectualism + HisDunceMichael = FAIL
The BABBLE has just BEGUN.....
February 24, 2009
10:40 a.m.
Suggest removal
HisPrinceMichael writes:
Mindless word drool + insufferably boring - original thought
=LynchBoss
February 24, 2009
11:24 a.m.
Suggest removal
BenchBoss writes:
I'll take insufferably boring over inexplicably wacko any day.
Hate to break it to you, Dunce but this perfect financial storm has nothing to do with religion or partisan politics. Whoever your God is cares about this mess as much as the outcome of a high school football game. Probably doesn't stop the likes of you from praying before one anyway.
We've been living an economic lie for the past 20 years. This is what happens with a flawed system. No amount of blame-gaming or pious posturing will address our current situation.
February 24, 2009
12:11 p.m.
Suggest removal
History writes:
Class of 80
Were you going to ID your source or simply pass off someone elses words and ideas as your own. At least have the deceancy to cite from whom you get your very poor and limited knowledge of history
http://www.ibdeditorials.com/IBDArtic...
Is where this hack stole, word for word - you averge high schooler know that plagerism is wrong, hack
February 24, 2009
12:19 p.m.
Suggest removal
Breaking_News writes:
President Obama says he was left the big hole by President Bush and Congress. Wasn't he one of the ones in Congress creating the big hole? Or did he just vote "present" on those votes also?
February 24, 2009
12:29 p.m.
Suggest removal
taoistblockhead writes:
http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2...
The Republican governor of Utah on Monday said his party is blighted by leaders in Congress whose lack of new ideas renders them so "inconsequential" that he doesn't even bother to talk to them.
"I don't even know the congressional leadership," Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr. told editors and reporters at The Washington Times, shrugging off questions about top congressional Republicans, including House Minority Leader John A. Boehner of Ohio and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky. "I have not met them. I don't listen or read whatever it is they say because it is inconsequential - completely."
February 24, 2009
12:32 p.m.
Suggest removal
HisPrinceMichael writes:
LynchBoss writes: "...This is what happens with a flawed system.." Gasp, you mean "Cause and Effect"?
Wow, I think that 'theory" was mentioned
a couple thousand years-ago, "..What ye
shall reap, ye shall sow....."
Now, just add greedy, godless, special-interest
serving,corrupt politicians and *voila*
It's an Economic-collapsing souffle!
Lynchie, If you were half-as-smart, as you are
sarcastic.....ah, shucks......you'd STILL be irrelelvant.
THE Battle, has just BEGUN:
http://www.all4webs.com/q/f/love4yahweh
February 24, 2009
12:51 p.m.
Suggest removal
Denver7 writes:
The president will push for movement on ensuring health coverage for all Americans. He will seek to expand educational opportunities, and diversify the country's energy sources, and contain sacred entitlements like Social Security, and halve the soaring budget deficit in four years.
Is the cost of the stimulus plan included in the deficit? If it is, how's he going to do all these things?
February 24, 2009
12:53 p.m.
Suggest removal
BenchBoss writes:
HisDunceMichael wrote:
"Wow, I think that 'theory" was mentioned a couple thousand years-ago, "..What ye shall reap, ye shall sow....."
Now, just add greedy, godless, special-interest serving,corrupt politicians and *voila* It's an Economic-collapsing souffle!
Lynchie, If you were half-as-smart, as you are
sarcastic.....ah, shucks......you'd STILL be irrelelvant."
Aw - if you were only half as smart as you THINK you are, you'd still be a primeval troglodyte. To actually think our current economic situation involves nothing more than "greedy, godless, special-interest serving,corrupt politicians" is as half-baked as a paranoid pot-smoking college dropout. Ever hear of overvaluation, credit default swaps, bond manipulation or pension gouging? Didn't think so. Any true trader or market mover knows better than to get involved with a low-rent political gig. Buy on the dip, scalp the top, save the religion and hack politicizing for the pedestrians. Careful of the crosswalk, nimrod.
February 24, 2009
12:54 p.m.
Suggest removal
HankReardon writes:
gweetarman wrote:
"democrats = youth and ignorance
republicans = maturity and wisdom"
More like:
democrats = Jesus
republicans = Archie Bunker
February 24, 2009
12:57 p.m.
Suggest removal
BHS1976 writes:
So the Obama technique is to vote on the solution, then define the problem, then sell the American people on his plan. Bass Ackwords I'd say. Try sticking to the promise to let us read the legislation before you sign it, that would be a start. Also how about believing that we the people know as much about this crisis as you do, possibly more, so try to listen to us instead of jamming a 787B mark down our collective throats.
February 24, 2009
1:19 p.m.
Suggest removal
KarlCheney writes:
hisprinceMichael, I want to know who you think Prince Michael is.. Who is your interpretation of your thread name?
February 24, 2009
1:25 p.m.
Suggest removal
BenchBoss writes:
KarlCheney - I don't think too much thought went into HisDunceMichael's name. Not much thought goes into anything he writes.
February 24, 2009
1:40 p.m.
Suggest removal
JMaster writes:
Uh oh! Somebody left the gate open at the asylum again and HisPrincessMichael has escaped.......
February 24, 2009
1:40 p.m.
Suggest removal
tunaman65 writes:
Very slowly but surely the Republican Party will return to power, its the nature of politics in this country. Remember who was cowed and beaten in 1994.
February 24, 2009
1:52 p.m.
Suggest removal
JMaster writes:
BS1976 wrote: "Also how about believing that we the people know as much about this crisis as you do, possibly more, so try to listen to us"
Listen to you! Please! What are you like early 30 something....You know about as much as a brain dead comatose patient when it comes to fixing our economic problems tool. Your methods would be to go the complete opposite way and reduce taxes even further on the richest 1%. Let me say this slowly so you understand.....TRICKLE DOWN ECONOMICS HASN'T WORKED AND IT WILL NEVER WORK! Other than to push wealth up to those who need it the least!
One last note....now you know how we felt when Bush would not listen to us for 8 years. Stinks don't it!
February 24, 2009
1:54 p.m.
Suggest removal
KarlCheney writes:
The reason I ask is that in some religious books Prince Michael is actually Jesus. So I was curious if hisprincemichael was referring to himself as Jesus...
February 24, 2009
2:05 p.m.
Suggest removal
BHS1976 writes:
Jmaster, when the citizens believe that politicians know more about budgets and expenditures and taxes than the people do is when the country is in peril. Most of our representatives have never run a business or grown a job, what is pathetic is that folks like you look down on people that grow jobs and pay wages. The risk takers, the people who lose all when their business fail are the engine of this economy.
Haven't been 30 for more than 20 years and as a top 1% you should know I pay 43% of everything I earn to uncle sam, so who else would you cut taxes on, the bottom 45% who pay zero?
Amazing that you know my thoughts as they have not been put forth in this forum, my simple point which you missed completely was that the candidate said that we the people would get a chance to read the legislation.before he signed it. His would be a new way, a change as it were. Why is that a bad thing? Have you really abrogated (look it up) your rights to 535 people in DC? Enjoy standing in a government line for your hand out paid for by my sweat, I prefer the American way, risk - reward. Have a fine day.
February 24, 2009
2:15 p.m.
Suggest removal
JMaster writes:
Hey BS1976 need a hankey!
February 24, 2009
2:21 p.m.
Suggest removal
BHS1976 writes:
JMaster,
Good one, if I do no doubt the government will provide it.
If you refer to my tax rate, since your insightful retort leaves much to be desired, I consider it a privilege to pay my taxes and do so without complaint. Hope you enjoy the welfare I provide you and others. Cheers friend.
Now turn of the computer at the library and go home to the trailer, Oprah is about to come on.
February 24, 2009
2:27 p.m.
Suggest removal
HisPrinceMichael writes:
Karl, your respectful and thoughtful question, is most deserving
of an answer:
The link below, will answer any questions pertaining to my
ACTUAL name.
Now, I've heard, however briefly, theories relating the name
Michael (Hebrew: Who is like God) to the Most Blessed
Jesus the Christ. Unfortunately, Karl, here is neither the time,
nor place, for a discussion of this magnitude. Still, I'm
highly impressed by your righteous inquisitiveness, so:
Melchizedek.
P.S. Karl, if you've ever heard the old "...baffle them with B.S...."
adage, indeed, you can find one or eight of those type here.
http://www.all4webs.com/q/f/love4yahweh
February 24, 2009
2:56 p.m.
Suggest removal
GoldenKid writes:
Oh Lord, The Stock market will probably tank tomorrow to a new low after his double speak tonight. Sell! Sell! Sell!
February 24, 2009
3:01 p.m.
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GoldenKid writes:
HisPrince Michael
Sounds like you are a Jehovah's Witness. Is that correct?
GoldenKid
February 24, 2009
3:05 p.m.
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JMaster writes:
Awwwwwwe BS1976 is angry at me.....I care so little! Maybe you can go buy another boat or car to calm your angst. While the rest of us who live in suburban "trailers" (as you put it) are trying to put food on the table, get our kids off to college, and stay healthy. The middle class is suffering.....I know it is hard to see "us" staring so far down from your "richest 1%" mountain, but things are tough down here. Medical costs are killing our savings and we try to do our best to get ahead only to get knocked down again and again. But your solution is to put more money in your pocket because you risked more than I did. Hmmmmm.....I went to college, served in the Guard, pay my taxes, own a home, have a wife, a job, and two great kids. Since when does your sweat deserve so much more than mine to the point I DO have to eventually stand in a welfare line?
February 24, 2009
3:07 p.m.
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HankReardon writes:
If Mickey is the 2nd Coming, he will arrive in a shortbus.
I'll pass, thanks.
February 24, 2009
3:14 p.m.
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nativegirl writes:
Our country will never have good leaders as long as we're stuck with the two party system and until we have term limits.
Each party is corrupt and politicians-for-life make bad leaders.
February 24, 2009
3:17 p.m.
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BHS1976 writes:
JMaster,
Why will taking from someone with more than you make your life better, what happens when they come for your money? The middle class has never suffered less in our history. You will be standing in that line sooner if you kill the engine which drives our economy, I am sure you understand the concept of eating the seed corn, sure your full for a short time but when nothing else is harvested we all starve. The market determines the value of my sweat and yours, what will you say to the coal miner in West Virginia when he asks the same question you ask of me. You are, my friend, the solution to your ultimate happiness not the government and certainly not my money. You sound like a happy man, you should be, don't let the government tell you your not successful, you are. But don't covet another man's property, it will only make you crazy.
February 24, 2009
3:42 p.m.
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KarlCheney writes:
HisPrinceMichael, thanks for the info I was just curious. I have heard and read a little regarding the subject of Price Michael.
February 24, 2009
3:46 p.m.
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glowrock writes:
I cannot believe the sanctimonious tripe I just read from BHS1976! My god, is there no end to the arrogance? Someone who has a wife, kids, a job, house, car, etc., who's having a tough time paying for everything is looked down upon by the rich guy up in the top 1% (I believe that's something like above $275k/year?) Wow, gotta love the compassion!
Jeez, how pathetic. You think you're the economy? You think the middle class should continue to suffer to help the rich like yourself? You don't think the middle class should get any breaks, meanwhile the rich like yourself have all of the breaks? You have the lawyers that help get monies offshore, you have the lawyers that keep corporate taxes at bay, you have the money to send your kids to rich private schools, you have the money for rich fancy cars, you have the money for rich fancy houses.
Not saying I harbor ill-will for the wealthy, for I don't in the least. But I would like to at least get a modicum of support from the rich to the middle class. The middle class is the real driver of the economy, for the middle class is the main purchaser of goods and services! The middle class and the poor have little disposable income, as the vast majority of money is spent on necessary goods and services for their survival. The rich have lots of disposable income as lots is left over after necessities are purchased.
Don't covet another man's property? How dare you!!!
February 24, 2009
3:51 p.m.
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HisPrinceMichael writes:
Golden, ALL of Creation, is Yeshua's witness. You, too.
Karl, again, your use of basic common-courtesy, is refreshing.
Dan. 12;1
NOW.
http://www.all4webs.com/q/f/love4yahweh
February 24, 2009
3:53 p.m.
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BHS1976 writes:
JMaster, Some one else said it much better.
Property is the fruit of labor...property is desirable...is a positive good in the world. That some should be rich shows that others may become rich, and hence is just encouragement to industry and enterprise. Let not him who is houseless pull down the house of another; but let him labor diligently and build one for himself, thus by example assuring that his own shall be safe from violence when built."
Abraham Lincoln
Source: March 21, 1864 -
February 24, 2009
4:03 p.m.
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BHS1976 writes:
glowrock did you actually read what I wrote "You sound like a happy man, you should be, don't let the government tell you your not successful, you are" Is that looking down from on high, I think not, its suppportive.
"You have the lawyers that help get monies offshore, you have the lawyers that keep corporate taxes at bay, you have the money to send your kids to rich private schools, you have the money for rich fancy cars, you have the money for rich fancy houses" None of these apply. Being angry at another's success does nothing to fill your own till.
"Not saying I harbor ill-will for the wealthy, for I don't in the least."
Not sure your previous tirade supports this position
"The rich have lots of disposable income as lots is left over after necessities are purchased." Which is invested in banks and the stock market and private ventures which creates new jobs for all.
Read Linclon above.
Have a nice day
February 24, 2009
4:10 p.m.
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The_Punnisher writes:
" Obama aims for sober honesty, optimism in address "
While spending OUR money like a drunken sailor....
Who knows that the ship is on a suicide mission...
February 24, 2009
4:32 p.m.
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P_Denver writes:
" ... spending money like a drunken sailor..."
I resent that simile. I used to be a sailor -- during Vietnam. And when we went on shore leave we ....
Wait a minute. I guess it's accurate after all ......
February 24, 2009
4:42 p.m.
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Devil_Dog writes:
February 24, 2009
3:14 p.m.
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nativegirl writes:
Our country will never have good leaders as long as we're stuck with the two party system and until we have term limits.
Each party is corrupt and politicians-for-life make bad leaders.
Good post short and to the point.
February 24, 2009
5:01 p.m.
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LockNLoad writes:
BHS1976
You've got it right. Redistribution of wealth is never a good idea, and was never the inspiration of our founding fathers.
"Government is not the solution, it is the problem" Ronald Reagan.
"Government is basically evil, but a necessary evil" George Washington.
"I never met a young boy I didn't like" Barney Frank.
Oops. I got carried away.
February 24, 2009
5:03 p.m.
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JMaster writes:
BS1976 do you really believe your crap?
"Which is invested in banks and the stock market and private ventures which creates new jobs for all." Nice classic textbook answer that is devoid of any real measurement.
Yah those guys in the banks and corporations sure took their fiduciary responsibility seriously.....right! Created jobs.....right! No greed there...right!
Those execs who did very little in the way of really growing these companies made millions on stock options and bonuses while the rest of us took on credit card debt just to make our bills.
People are tired of the increasing stratification of have's and have not's because the richest 1% act like they are beholden to none. The middle class has had NO significant increases in average income in the past three decades while the rich have enjoyed a 30% increase.
You can only push on us so far before we push back and we did in this last election.
I will agree with you on one point...if I wanted to be a director or vice president for the company I work for I could probably put in 90 hours a week and move up. But that is not my goal in life "to live to work". I am happy being in the middle class, but if you keep pushing me to poverty with ever increasing costs of living (healthcare, higher ed, etc.) and subsequent poverty so you can keep your millions you THINK you earned then don't expect me to cry for you when you have to share more of it. Waaaaaaah! Btw there are over 3 million millionaires in America. Under your theory every one can be one if the just work hard enough or so you think Abe would say they could.....right!
February 24, 2009
5:16 p.m.
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History writes:
LockNLoad - do you call yourself a patriot. If government, by which I assume you are implying ours, is evil - then feel free to leave or run for office.
You are correct that there are very good examples of bad government, ones that I would never defend. But lets not be simplistic, all government is not bad, lets try and hold two thoughts at once.
If you believe government is bad/evil then please explain for me the evilness of
The GI Bill
The Marshall Plan
The interstate highway system
Consumer safety protections
The Americans with disabilities Act
Federal student loans
The National Park system
Head Start
The FDIC
The TVA
The Post Office (they have been weak as of late)
Welfare to work programs
Putting a man on the moon
The entire US Armed Forces including the US Coast Guard
Yup all evil - get rid of em
February 24, 2009
5:58 p.m.
MUC writes:
(This comment was removed by the site staff.)
February 24, 2009
6:06 p.m.
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BHS1976 writes:
Jmaster:
The measuremnt is callled the DOW Ind average for one.
"I will agree with you on one point...if I wanted to be a director or vice president for the company I work for I could probably put in 90 hours a week and move up. But that is not my goal in life "to live to work". I am happy being in the middle class, "
Congratulations of reaching your goals in life, what a great country in which you and I are free to do what we want. Other than that your argument is inane. The current financial crisis is a direct result of Greed by the bankers and mortage companies and real estate speculators, the lack of govenmnet oversight, both parties, and an attempt to give to those who could not afford (yet) a home loan.
When does the government stop taking more than what is fair from the rich, top 1 %, 3%, 7% of earners, who decides, the other 93% who make less. Is that fair or does fair having nothing to do with it? If you truely believe that the top 1% keep the middle class down you are beyond help.
The top any % are not beholden to anyone else, the tax code already makes the top % pay more than our fair share, if thats not enough for you I suggest you put in the hours to join us or be satisfied with your lot in life.
Have a nice day friend
February 24, 2009
6:10 p.m.
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BHS1976 writes:
MUC, I enjoy the debate with Jmaster. His points seem sincere, its just I can't fathom his sense of entitlement to what is not his.
February 24, 2009
6:24 p.m.
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The_Punnisher writes:
P_Denver:
LMFAO!!! Best post all day!
History: Those are examples of projects when GOVERNMENT WAS THE SERVANT, NOT THE MASTER!!! Granted, the government WANTED to be " master of all things " when we shifted from a REPUBLIC to a DEMOCRACY...
History, I suggest you read YOUR history, and what LIMITS the Founding Fathers wanted on a CENTRALIZED GOVERNMENT.
February 24, 2009
6:25 p.m.
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sawzallartist writes:
I knew hisprincemike was out of his gourd when he defended the band Counting Crows in the Grammy's thread.
Bench Boss......you didn't like my take on the south (by the way I went to UF and was born in the panhandle)......but I can let that slide after seeing you take LoonyToons to the woodshed.
Hankreardon...you owe me a monitor......that was a couple good ones.
February 24, 2009
6:50 p.m.
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History writes:
Punnisher, I have read my history thank you very much, do care to expand on your analysis, you claim those programs where when the government was the servant not the master. Interesting choice of words. However you seem to prove my point that I was making towards locknload, which is that government is not always bad or evil for that matter, history shows us that government is capable of good as well. Government is at its best when it invests in its citizens which many of those programs do. It is also at its best when it has the citizens best interests in mind. That is point.
Furthermore, according to you when did our Republic end and Democracy begin?
February 24, 2009
6:52 p.m.
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BenchBoss writes:
Hey, sawzallartist... it's all good.
Seems we do have the South in common. And, now, this curious creature I refer to as HisDunceMichael. We're talking some serious damaged goods. Guy's been huffing or something. Maybe head trauma.
February 24, 2009
6:55 p.m.
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homeradam writes:
I bet this clown can't even balance his check book! Nobama the Democrat circus are in over their heads.
February 24, 2009
7:04 p.m.
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BenchBoss writes:
homeradam......
Somehow you managed to post on here so anything is possible. One can dream.
February 24, 2009
7:41 p.m.
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timeandagain writes:
All politics aside, Nancy Pelosi is a smarmy, hideous human being...
February 24, 2009
7:43 p.m.
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The_Punnisher writes:
History, we started moving in that DEMOCRATIC direction since the New ( RAW ) Deal. Social (in) Security was an example of spending NOW hoping the bill can be paid LATER...
We moved even farther when we lost the GOLD STANDARD ( you know, when I could change that piece of paper into something of VALUE ) instead of relying on WORDS PROMISING VALUE...
If you are such a follower of history, you already know we are following the same path trod many centuries ago.
I have to guess that you also know about " Bread and Circuses ".
You should also know which part of the timeline the US of A is on when it comes to " Bread and Circuses ".
I have to hope that you are not one of those " ivory tower " types that don't face REALITY, especially when it comes to EARNING a paycheck..
You might want to read the works of the SCI-FI Grand Master who was actually a very pragmatic man: Robert A. Heinlein...
February 24, 2009
7:44 p.m.
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BHS1976 writes:
a hand out, is not a way out... Appolgies to Rev. Jackson
February 24, 2009
7:48 p.m.
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BHS1976 writes:
a hand out, is not a way out... Apolgies to Rev. Jackson
February 24, 2009
7:52 p.m.
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homeradam writes:
I think I'm going to puke. No longer is this the country where you can strive to go higher, it's the country where the poor (vomit on BENCHBOSS) will drag down the successful. This president is a fricking joke.
February 24, 2009
7:54 p.m.
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homeradam writes:
The only thing the Democraps inherited was the stupidity of Jimmy Carter.
February 24, 2009
8:01 p.m.
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BHS1976 writes:
He has not a single clue, "not a single ear mark in the 787B spending bill." He lies directly to the American people.
Is the DNC funding this convention speech? One wonders.
50 MINUTES INTO THIS BS HE FINALLY MENTIONS THE TROOPS, COMMANDER IN SQUAW, what a joke
February 24, 2009
8:04 p.m.
Suggest removal
History writes:
Punnisher thanks for the post, first off don't worry I earn my paycheck, believe me I earn it. I think you are correct we need to be wary of a time of "bread and circuses" history shows us that, however i respectfully disagree with the notion that that is were we presently are.
As for representation as the New deal as a raw deal, i respectfully disagree. Remember, Reagan's favorite President was FDR. The new deal and social security, while not perfect I grant you was a necessary part of the evolutionary process of our government, it was required to respond to the changing nature of the industrial era. The shift from a republic to a democracy you propose is a poli sci. question - not and economic one. What the New deal shows us is that we need a broker state, a government that looks out for the common good.
Thanks for the recommendation of Robert Heinlein, I will have to check him out
February 24, 2009
8:05 p.m.
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BHS1976 writes:
Clearly his worst effort to date, can't wait to read the RMN editors to start their spin. all is well, all is well.
February 24, 2009
8:08 p.m.
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BHS1976 writes:
Its 9th grade students council all over again, can we get another coke machine in the student lounge... Even his teleprompter jokes are poorly delivered.
February 24, 2009
8:11 p.m.
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History writes:
BHS - do you have any constructive criticism, any substance or are you reduced to meaningless quips.
February 24, 2009
8:17 p.m.
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BHS1976 writes:
Yes, he lied directly to the people. He is not up to the job. He jokes about deficits as the ink dries on a 787B $ spending porkfest that is full of waste that will not stimulate even your gerkin. What say you History. What did you like, what did he read that you think will actually put people to work.. The world awaits your insight Blogs are about your opinions, don't waste our time with weak, oh huhs Engage with your ideas or sign off
February 24, 2009
8:20 p.m.
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chickenlittle1234 writes:
BHS1976 writes - "Even his teleprompter jokes are poorly delivered."
After reading your posts, I have to compliment you on your total lack of irony.
February 24, 2009
8:21 p.m.
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leavemealone writes:
WOW.....
The current spending won't be but a drop in the bucket.
We are in HUGE trouble.
February 24, 2009
8:25 p.m.
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BHS1976 writes:
I love this country, any fool such as I can engage in a debate of the days event. Appreciate the opportuniuty to share. Have a great evening.
February 24, 2009
8:28 p.m.
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History writes:
Well BHS, i don't want to keep the blogs waiting or the world for that matter - a few points, while I agree that his comment about zero earmarks was on a slippery slope with regards to truth, I am willing to give him a pass on that, if your not I respect your opinion. But careful with your pristine requirements of honest by a politician, remember WMDs in Iraq, no you don't because they weren't there.
What i did like and what I like is when my government invests in people. Please refer to my 5:16 post, i also like when government uses it regulatory power to protect American citizens. Furthermore, I like my tax cut, I make less than 250k. I know the argument that goes - Rich Americans pay 70 percent of the taxes in this country, well if we ignore flat sales taxes that may be true, but since that small group of rich people own at least 70 percent of the wealth in country I think that sounds right to me
February 24, 2009
8:39 p.m.
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BHS1976 writes:
History, a lie is a lie not a slippery slope. When did giving a lie a pass become vogue? Your the historian, quote to me in the Constitution or the Bill of Rights where is states that those with the most should pay a greater % of what they have than those with less. If one doesn't have to pay to play then that citizen has no motivation to quell the spending currently ongoing in the capitol. Enjoy your 14 bucks a month, but that will evaporate once the Bush tax cuts are allowed to expire. Have a good evening
February 24, 2009
8:44 p.m.
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BHS1976 writes:
Chickenlittle1234,
Thank you very little...:)
February 24, 2009
8:48 p.m.
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Roymance writes:
Republicans should look at a graph of the deficit versus president, and explain why in the last 29 years the deficit has sky rocketed during republican presidents and declined during the democratic one. You can't because your party is a total failure. For the La. governor. Yes americans can do anything, like make a representative democracy with a government to lead us through tough times. You guys should read up on the history of the country before making a speech, you sound like baffoons. Hopefully it is not because you are one.
February 24, 2009
9:04 p.m.
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History writes:
BHS
You are right you will find nothing in the constitution or bill of rights about an income tax, because at that time our government could raise more than enough revenue by selling western lands and placing taxes on imports and levying an excise tax. We didn't create an income tax until the early 1900s with the passage of the 16th amendment, when the previous forms of revenue were no longer adequate
You ask why should people who make more pay a higher %, simple, they make more money. The graduated income tax, even with its flaws is one of the reason the majority of Americans are in the middle class, and not the lowest class.
February 24, 2009
9:05 p.m.
Suggest removal
agzela writes:
“Every kingdom divided against itself comes to desolation, and every city or house divided against itself will not stand." Matt 12:25
February 24, 2009
9:06 p.m.
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Cowboy63 writes:
so basically, welcome to the United Socialist States of America!
February 24, 2009
9:08 p.m.
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sawzallartist writes:
agzela writes:
“." Matt 12:25
Matt?............Matt?......
February 24, 2009
9:10 p.m.
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glock27 writes:
There is no money for these grandiose plans, particularly if Obama snuffs out economic growth by raising taxes.
Be afraid. Be very afraid.
February 24, 2009
9:10 p.m.
Suggest removal
BHS1976 writes:
You ask why should people who make more pay a higher %, simple, they make more money. The graduated income tax, even with its flaws is one of the reason the majority of Americans are in the middle class, and not the lowest class.
What???, You make 100K you should pay 35% tax, I make 65K, I should pay 22% tax, That make $ and cents to you and is fair, do explain please
February 24, 2009
9:11 p.m.
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agzela writes:
"Do not put YOUR trust in nobles,
Nor in the son of earthling man, to whom no salvation belongs.
His spirit goes out, he goes back to his ground;
In that day his thoughts do perish" Psalms 146:3,4
February 24, 2009
9:12 p.m.
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BHS1976 writes:
Matthew. like in the books of the bible
February 24, 2009
9:14 p.m.
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KW writes:
Four quotes that bothered me the most:
"Free flowing credit is the backbone of this country"
I thought living within your means as the people of this country did for a couple centuries was the backbone.
"Relief for those who have saved but cannot find a mortgage to buy a home will find new resources to make the dream a reality."
Currently, a decent (650+ fico) score will qualify you for an FHA 95% loan to value mortgage. If these folks have been saving, yet have such poor credit as to not qualify for the easiest mortgage ever invented for the working class, I'm not confident re extending new mortgages to these folks is the best idea for economic recovery in the housing sector. As a matter of fact, these same people are the largest problem the banks are having today with bad loans.
"The need for expediency in passing this legislation was crucial for the economic recovery of this nation."
Yet in the next breath...
"A bill of this size and magnitude must be carefully implemented to ensure effectiveness in achieving its goals"
This from the man who spent more time walking between the door and the podium tonight than he allowed for scrutinizing the waste attached to the spending bill.
I listened carefully, but this sales pitch was nothing more than the rehashed version of the same speech he's been giving since his inauguration. And I predict the modest gains witnessed today in the stock market will by noon tomorrow up and disappear quicker than a nasty fart in a high wind.
February 24, 2009
9:14 p.m.
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History writes:
glock - be afraid.... OK. You do what you got to do man. But you and Cowboy sound like a bunch of coward chicken littles to me. The sky is falling the sky is falling, step up man. Take a challange. Afraid... I got some other things for you to worry about - the boogey man, the werewolf, and dracula... oh yeah and obstructionist republicans with out a counter argument
February 24, 2009
9:14 p.m.
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NeilT writes:
It's interesting to hear Bobby Jindal brag about his states' tax cuts and rail against the stimulus package when he runs one of the top welfare states in the nation. California, Colorado and just about every other blue state would be in much better financial shape if we didn't have to support these leaches known as red states.
Federal Spending Received Per Dollar of Tax Paid:
Louisiana (Jindal) $1.78 Rank 4
Alaska (Palin) $1.84 Rank 3
Colorado $0.81 Rank 41
California $0.78 Rank 43
http://www.taxfoundation.org/research...
February 24, 2009
9:22 p.m.
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spelvin2002 writes:
HisPrince Michael's posts do indeed read as if they'd been written for the Watchtower and Awake.
February 24, 2009
9:27 p.m.
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Steve_In_Denver writes:
Amazing speech tonight...It's so nice to have an articulate and educated leader for a change.
February 24, 2009
9:32 p.m.
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The_Punnisher writes:
Well, it looks like the OBAMANATION has made a pig ( porkulous bill ) fly...
Too bad the AVERAGE US TAXPAYER AND INHERITORS have to break their backs to make it fly...
We have not only mortgaged our individual futures, we have mortgaged the soul and future of the United States..
And let a sleazy CHICAGO politician loose at the worldwide gambling casino WITH OUR MONEY...where the rest of the world is the house. And the house always gets it's cut...
We live in interesting times.
We may not like the CHANGE we will be forced to make.
February 24, 2009
9:34 p.m.
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mytwosense writes:
I notice the people making the harshest criticisms about President Obama have no real ideas or suggestions themselves. Until they do, they should consider quieting down and just let him drive.
Honest, constructive criticism is one thing. Shrill and distracting yammering from the backseat is another.
February 24, 2009
9:36 p.m.
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Uno writes:
BObama's promises and the $$$$$$$$ don't add up, no wonder he doesn't offer specifics.
February 24, 2009
9:40 p.m.
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History writes:
BHS - because the individual who is making more money and paying a higher % still takes home more money than the person who makes less money, who needs a greater % of that money in order to live.
Reasonable people can reasonably disagree that those numbers should be different, higher or lower in different income brackets. Republicans tend to be want the higher rates cut and poorer people or working class people tend to support democrats who want to see cuts in the lowers rates. It is a good debate to have.
I think that flat tax, which is highly regressive and puts an undo burden on the working class. I think history supports this. Like I said before the progressive income tax is ONE of the reasons we are nation of mostly middle class Americans. Remember that mass of middle class Americans who have disposable income will use that money to take vacations, but things, go out to eat and pay for their child's tuition.
Now I agree that our income tax system has become insanely complicated, reform is needed but the theory, in my opinion is sound
February 24, 2009
9:43 p.m.
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NeilT writes:
Our future was mortgaged by p*ss*ing money away on other countries.
At least this time we are investing in our own country and will see a return on that investment. Iraq is not alone in needing new roads, schools and etc.
Cut the welfare payments to the red states and we'll be able to pay for anything we need.
February 24, 2009
9:44 p.m.
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johnson writes:
Someone, PLEASE tell him he has the job and to quit the campaign speeches! Typical political clap trap BS.
February 24, 2009
9:44 p.m.
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taoistblockhead writes:
If President Obama truly does stand up for the American People and calls bullsh*t on the corruption at CitiBank, BofA, Wall Street, etc he will be one of the greatest presidents of all time.
The Republicans got nothin'... And they know it.
Bush rode out of town leaving a stain on that party that will last for decades. And a legacy of grumpy old men in depends (McCain, McConnell, Gingrich, Cheney, etc), a few who might as well be wearing tutus (Lindsey Graham, etc), and a broken down fascist prom queen (Palin) to pick up the pieces. And boy wonder Jindal who used Hurricane Katrina as an example of the incompetence of the Party of No.
February 24, 2009
9:56 p.m.
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leavemealone writes:
NeilT writes:
"Our future was mortgaged by p*ss*ing money away on other countries."
LOL
Sorry Neil....we don't have any money.
Please, someone, anyone - tell me where the government will be getting all this money?
Please, Please, Please...you DON'T know, do you?
February 24, 2009
9:57 p.m.
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davies writes:
Very disappointing. Ooh, tax increases for the wealthy, there's some bold leadership from the Democrats. The result will be perverse tax-avoidance investment practices. Big talk about "shared sacrifice", but you really want to end our dependence on foreign oil? Then how about a frickin' increase to the 18 cents-a-gallon gas and diesel tax? You know, actually raise some meaningful tax revenue to cut the deficit while at the same time discouraging consumption? Oh no, of course we wouldn't want to do anything that really requires any courage.
Wind and solar power? Fine, makes people feel good, but it's never going to amount to that much. What about clean nuclear power? Oh no, we wouldn't want to offend our ultra-greenies, that again would take a little courage and leadership. Very disappointing.
February 24, 2009
10:02 p.m.
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leavemealone writes:
Oh we hope Obama is right.....give me a break.
I would like to see the loan application the US Government filled out to obtain all this money.....oh wait, I bet the Fed Reserve will just simply print the money!
However, I guarantee if there were a loan application it would look identical to the mortgage loan applications taken by sub-prime lenders.
We are in the Stupid Trouble Zone.
February 24, 2009
10:08 p.m.
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Oh_Wise_One writes:
This Obamessiah is Evil. He says he doesn't believe in big government, so what is he doing but big government? He speaks, he lies.
February 24, 2009
10:09 p.m.
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leavemealone writes:
I tell you what: Obama is one sweet talking S.O.B.
A+ on talk.
Wow, that guy could talk a nun right out of her nightie.
February 24, 2009
10:17 p.m.
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The_Punnisher writes:
History: It is time to resurrect an old word that RAH uses frequently:
TANSTAAFL
There Ain't No Such Thing As A Free Lunch.
I think that we REALLY need to look at why this word applies.
Someone has to pay. Who should it be? WHAT should we pay with? What if the world WON'T take our dollars?
I know some of the answers. You may know some of the answers. Admitting that a problem exists is a starting point, but ONLY a starting point.
If our behavior triggers HYPERINFLATION, we fall into the same trap that Germany fell into in the 20s and 30s..
We have already DEEVEED our currency, check on what happened to ROME when they did the same thing.
Check the type of society that the Last days of Rome had. Sounds familiar?
That is where my " Bread and Circuses " comment is based on.
February 24, 2009
10:55 p.m.
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farmboy writes:
I just checked the futures markets for the DOW, NASDAQ and S&P.
Not surprising, 0bama's speech tonight didn't wow them. They're all down.
leavemealone asked, "Please, someone, anyone - tell me where the government will be getting all this money?"
A very good question.
0bama sent Hillary to China to beg them to lend us the money for his spending spree.
If they don't give us the loan, then either taxes will be a lot higher for a lot more people than 0bama's "upper 5%", or his debt will have to be monetized, leading to hyper-inflation.
If they do give us the loan, our kids will be stuck with the bill.
And that assumes China even has the money to loan us. Doubtful, because they have their economic troubles too.
February 24, 2009
11 p.m.
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portal_pyramids writes:
Bravo President Obama! I am almost proud to be an American in public again. You most certainly are the sharpest most seemingly competent president I have seen in my life. The crisis we are in is not your fault but you have taken it on as your own problem and I believe you are the right person to lead us. Thank you for the sharp contract from previous presidents, I salute you! Good luck and God bless us all.
February 24, 2009
11:06 p.m.
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portal_pyramids writes:
leavemealone writes:
I tell you what: Obama is one sweet talking S.O.B.
A+ on talk.
Wow, that guy could talk a nun right out of her nightie.
I salute you too leavemealone! That is the first time I laughed at your thread for the right reasons. Wouldn't it be great if he actually can deliver his ambitious agenda? I thought it sounded fantastic. Who will suffer if it all works out? The very rich?
Isn't what he is doing what SHOULD have been expected of our leaders in the past? He is genuinely trying to reach out and unite everyone. Bravo President Obama!
Money isn't everything, quit worrying about the cost and do what is right.
February 24, 2009
11:32 p.m.
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farmboy writes:
portal_pyramids,
Let me guess. You're on welfare, right?
February 24, 2009
11:51 p.m.
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BenchBoss writes:
homeradam wrote:
"I think I'm going to puke. No longer is this the country where you can strive to go higher, it's the country where the poor (vomit on BENCHBOSS) will drag down the successful. This president is a fricking joke."
You don't know me or my situation. Don't pretend to. As for you, all I have to go off of is what you type here. Pretty safe assessment of what you {don't} have going on upstairs. If it helps your addled brain {or what's left of it} to imagine me as poor so be it. Not much of a stretch since you obviously inhabit some 'tard town. Population1.
As for the speech, I may have voted for the man but the campaign is over. Less chat, more act. Nothing he could have said would have swayed too many people here who already hate him.
And, farmboy, I wouldn't place too much emphasis on pre-market futures data given the whipsaw volatility of the past 6-7 months. Besides, I'd hardly call the numbers 'down'. China's responding well. Look at the jump gap on the Hang Seng. Good news, bad news, doesn't matter. This will still be a wild ride.
February 25, 2009
12:42 a.m.
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portal_pyramids writes:
Wrong Farmboy. Someday you will learn there are other people who do not live in a black or white world. Hope whatever you do makes you happy and you fare well.
February 25, 2009
3:43 a.m.
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SanctuaryCity writes:
Osama & Pislosi are driving the USA into collapse. If you have a house payment, don't pay & if you owe taxes, don't pay (the dems don't). Just take advantage of the spiral in the wanning moments.
February 25, 2009
6:23 a.m.
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Oh_Wise_One writes:
portal- If you really do believe this- "Who will suffer if it all works out? The very rich?" and think that is ok, we are doomed. Class warfare will not stop with the small minority of the "very rich".
It is only the start. Taking from the haves, to give to the have-not-enough is envy and covetness. We are supposed to protect the minority no matter what their flaw and in this case it is money.
Don't think they will stand idly by and have their own money stolen by you and your brownshirts.
February 25, 2009
6:35 a.m.
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GoodNewsGuy writes:
We elected a documented marxist, socialist, terriorist sympathizer. I'm sure we'll all embrace the lies that come from him. The phrase "blowing smoke up your butt comes to mind."
February 25, 2009
6:51 a.m.
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Fisherman writes:
Obama could read the hazard label from a bottle of cyanide and make you want to taste it. While we are lost in the lifting oratory, the danger is in the details. For example, it sounds good to tax the rich (those making over $250,000/yr) to cut the deficit in half, but the numbers don't add up. The most he'll get from them is $30B a year to erase a deficit of $1T over the next 4 years. Be ready to swallow your poison.
February 25, 2009
7:53 a.m.
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Denver7 writes:
Sounds like his agenda is going forward no matter what the cost is. Damn the torpedos, full speed ahead. I hope that Washington knows what they are doing. Our futures depend on it.
February 25, 2009
12:30 p.m.
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JoethePlumber writes:
Steve_In_Denver writes:
Amazing speech tonight...It's so nice to have an articulate and educated leader for a change.
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Yeah - Don't bother worrying that it was a bunch of deceit, manipulation of "facts," empty rhetoric, and flat out lies. People like you that get bedazzled by a politician's speech scare me more than the politicians themselves.
Try thinking critically about what he actually said -not how it was delivered- and you might be singing a different tune this morning. In fact, you would quickly come to the conclusion that he is talking out of both sides of his mouth. He talks about "fiscal responsibility" after signing the biggest piece of fiscal irresponsibility in the Nation's history. That's one example - I could cite countless others.
Wake up!
February 25, 2009
5:15 p.m.
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johnson writes:
"I believe the nation that invented the automobile cannot walk away from it," he said.
France was actually experiementing with steam powered carriages in the 1700's. And Benz of Germany was the first to power a carriage with an internal combustion engine, about 150 years ago.BO should get his facts straight before he goes for the standing ovations from Biden. If he meant the first country to mass produce autos, he didn't say it.