Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell has a piece in The Hill's Congress Blog that highlights three of the terrorists who would be released from Gitmo -- and perhaps housed on U.S. soil -- if the Obama administration persists in closing Gitmo. McConnell has complained for weeks that the administration announced its intent to close Gitmo even though it has no plan whatsoever on where to put the enemy combatants housed there.
McConnell notes that
[One]reason we haven’t been attacked is because some men who are most likely to do so are locked up in Guantanamo. These inmates aren’t spectators. They’re the enemy. They’re the plotters, the planners, the funders, the ones who pull the trigger.
. . .
McConnell highlights three of the terrorist who -- if Obama has his way -- might be coming to a prison near you:
Thug No. 1
One of the men who’s locked away safely at Guantanamo is Khalid Sheikh Muhammad, the man who actually organized the 9/11 attacks. We captured him while he was planning follow-up attacks to 9/11, including a plot to destroy a West Coast skyscraper. If we hadn’t captured Khalid Sheikh Muhammad, he may very well have succeeded in carrying out the same kind of attack on the West Coast that he carried out on the East Coast.
This is a man who boasts about using his, quote, ‘blessed right hand’ to decapitate the American journalist Daniel Pearl. And he’s unrepentant: earlier this year, Khalid Sheikh Muhammad joined a number of other detainees at Guantanamo in declaring themselves, quote, ‘terrorists to the bone,’ and proclaiming September 11, 2001, as a, quote, ‘blessed’ day.
Thug No. 2
Another inmate who still declares himself a ‘terrorist to the bone’ is Ali Abd al-Azeez Ali, who served as a key lieutenant for KSM on several plots against the United States and the United Kingdom, including the 9/11 attacks. During what he describes as the, quote, ‘Blessed 11 September operation,’ Ali transferred money to U.S.-based operatives and served as a sort of travel agent for some of the hijackers. This man is responsible for the deaths of thousands of Americans.
Thug No. 3
Another terrorist at Guantanamo who is responsible for the death of Americans is Abd Al-Rahim Al Nashiri, who masterminded the attack on the USS Cole, which killed 17 U.S. sailors in 2000. When he was arrested, Nashiri was planning new terrorist attacks, including a plot to crash an airplane into a Western naval vessel and a plan targeting a U.S. housing compound in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
And these are just three of many. None of them has been able to kill another American since they were "detained" at Gitmo.
Why mess with success?
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Friday, May 8, 2009
Keep Gitmo Detainees Out of Kentucky
The Obama Administration has not said what it will do with all the detainees after it closes the detention facility at Guantanamo Bay. The administration is not saying because it does not know. Plainly, the administration has no plan for where to put these thugs. Germany doesn't want them, and Saudi Arabia has refused them. (So much for the Obama World Appeasement Tour making America lovable again.)
Even Senate Democratic Leader Harry Reid is complaining about the administration's lack of specific on where it will send the terrorists.
A state senator in Louisiana has introduced a resolution stating that Louisiana does not want the detainees.
Kentucky needs to do the same during the upcoming special session. All accounts of the overcrowding at the Fayette County jail suggest that we cannot even accommodate our home bred criminals. We don't need to supplement the population with jihadists.
Such a resolution is perhaps the only proactive thing our state legislature can do that won't require a single tax dollar. So let's make clear that if Obama wants to persist in his foolhardy plan to close Gitmo, we don't want these detainees in our backyard.
Update: France has agreed to take one (1) Gitmo detainee! I feel so much safer.
Even Senate Democratic Leader Harry Reid is complaining about the administration's lack of specific on where it will send the terrorists.
A state senator in Louisiana has introduced a resolution stating that Louisiana does not want the detainees.
Kentucky needs to do the same during the upcoming special session. All accounts of the overcrowding at the Fayette County jail suggest that we cannot even accommodate our home bred criminals. We don't need to supplement the population with jihadists.
Such a resolution is perhaps the only proactive thing our state legislature can do that won't require a single tax dollar. So let's make clear that if Obama wants to persist in his foolhardy plan to close Gitmo, we don't want these detainees in our backyard.
Update: France has agreed to take one (1) Gitmo detainee! I feel so much safer.
Joe Gerth Mocks Bunning
Joe Gerth from the Courier-Journal has taken his investigative skills to Sen. Jim Bunning's campaign site, and results would be funny if they weren't so pathetic. Bunning's campaign site looks slick enough at first glance, replete with photos and endorsements.
And there's a nice letter from Bunning that says, "Almost six years ago, Kentuckians elected me to serve them in the U.S. Senate and I have been privileged to represent them. It was a competitive and close race that came down to the final stretch, but we won the open seat by a mere 6,766 votes."
Six years ago? 6,766 votes? He won relection four years ago. By nearly 23,000 votes.
Wait a minute.
And those endoresements are from the 2004 election.
This website hasn't been updated in four years.
Why does his wife allow him to persist in this alleged campaign? Or has Mrs. Bunning tried to talk some sense into her husband and he refuses to listen to her (as he does everyone else)?
Somebody, please make him stop.
And there's a nice letter from Bunning that says, "Almost six years ago, Kentuckians elected me to serve them in the U.S. Senate and I have been privileged to represent them. It was a competitive and close race that came down to the final stretch, but we won the open seat by a mere 6,766 votes."
Six years ago? 6,766 votes? He won relection four years ago. By nearly 23,000 votes.
Wait a minute.
And those endoresements are from the 2004 election.
This website hasn't been updated in four years.
Why does his wife allow him to persist in this alleged campaign? Or has Mrs. Bunning tried to talk some sense into her husband and he refuses to listen to her (as he does everyone else)?
Somebody, please make him stop.
Bill Lamb Blasts Bunning
Fox 41's Bill Lamb minced no words last night regarding Sen. Jim Bunning. In Lamb's Point of View segment, he said that Bunning is "not a bad guy" but is a "bad politician." Bunning -- who recently refused to speak to a Fox 41 reporter, apparently because he's mad at Lamb -- is "clearly no longer a viable candidate."
Lamb dismissed Bunning's attempt to blame Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell for Bunning's central problem -- that he is unelectable. "In blaming just about everyone but himself for his political woes," Bunning "fails to see the real problem."
"While Sen. Bunning might not like what he's hearing, he would do well to listen to his critics instead of dismissing them as disloyal traitors."
Those who have publicly or privately told Bunning not to run are not traitors; they are trying to save him from the embarrassment of ending a distinguished career with a crushing loss. Friends speak the truth to one another, whether it's spinach on the teeth, toilet paper on the shoe or a reelection bid that has taken on the stench of certain defeat.
Lamb dismissed Bunning's attempt to blame Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell for Bunning's central problem -- that he is unelectable. "In blaming just about everyone but himself for his political woes," Bunning "fails to see the real problem."
"While Sen. Bunning might not like what he's hearing, he would do well to listen to his critics instead of dismissing them as disloyal traitors."
Those who have publicly or privately told Bunning not to run are not traitors; they are trying to save him from the embarrassment of ending a distinguished career with a crushing loss. Friends speak the truth to one another, whether it's spinach on the teeth, toilet paper on the shoe or a reelection bid that has taken on the stench of certain defeat.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Bunning in His Own Words
Twice during Sen. Jim Bunning's conference call with reporters, an ambulance blared its siren in the background. It seemed a fitting sound effect for a campaign that does not have enough energy (or money) to get off the ground.
Bunning was quite articulate -- and genuinely conservative -- when discussing policy. That made the rest of the call even sadder: when taking questions about his own race, Bunning sounded unhinged. His logic became hard to follow and his tone became shrill and condescending.
For example, Bunning said that he won't be doing much polling not because his campaign is broke but rather because "there are a lot of free polls coming out so why should I poll?" He cited the Courier-Journal as an example of a "non-partisan poll" that he could rely on. And he did not appear to be joking or engaging in sarcasm. To be sure, whatever media outlet commissions a poll would like us to accept it as non-partisan, but that's a leap of faith no serious candidate can afford to take.
However, Bunning is not relying on the C-J to get him reelected. He's talking to a former adviser from the McCain campaign (and we know how well that turned out). Heaven help the poor man.
Bunning insisted that it was his idea for Secretary of State Trey Grayson to form an exploratory committee for statewide federal office, and that he "would have preferred Trey filed earlier." Yet Bunning maintains that the Greyson exploratory committee could be used down the road: "people don't always run in the year they file."
He conceded that Grayson's exploratory committee could be used for the 2010 Senate race but said that it also could be used for "some larger race in 2011." Somebody correct me if I'm wrong, but there is no federal race in Kentucky in 2011 -- barring a special election.
He denied that the Grayson committee would dry up his own fundraising, in direct contradiction of his complaint that Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell's fundraising had precluded Bunning from raising much money by competing for scarce dollars.
Bunning's logic on McConnell was flawed in other respects. On the one hand, he complained that McConnell "wants to run everybody." On the other hand, Bunning attributed every Republican Senate seat lost to McConnell. He called McConnell "selfish," notwithstanding that it was McConnell who saved Bunning from losing his last election. Bunning's real problem is that he cannot win without McConnell once again rescuing him.
Bunning said he "won't walk into 2010 with less than $1 million," conceding that the race will cost between $7-10 million. His next financial report is due in mid July.
Thank goodness Trey Grayson is not waiting to mid July to see the inevitable -- that Bunning's 30 year career in public service, while honorable and consistently conservative, is coming to an end that's painful to watch.
Bunning was quite articulate -- and genuinely conservative -- when discussing policy. That made the rest of the call even sadder: when taking questions about his own race, Bunning sounded unhinged. His logic became hard to follow and his tone became shrill and condescending.
For example, Bunning said that he won't be doing much polling not because his campaign is broke but rather because "there are a lot of free polls coming out so why should I poll?" He cited the Courier-Journal as an example of a "non-partisan poll" that he could rely on. And he did not appear to be joking or engaging in sarcasm. To be sure, whatever media outlet commissions a poll would like us to accept it as non-partisan, but that's a leap of faith no serious candidate can afford to take.
However, Bunning is not relying on the C-J to get him reelected. He's talking to a former adviser from the McCain campaign (and we know how well that turned out). Heaven help the poor man.
Bunning insisted that it was his idea for Secretary of State Trey Grayson to form an exploratory committee for statewide federal office, and that he "would have preferred Trey filed earlier." Yet Bunning maintains that the Greyson exploratory committee could be used down the road: "people don't always run in the year they file."
He conceded that Grayson's exploratory committee could be used for the 2010 Senate race but said that it also could be used for "some larger race in 2011." Somebody correct me if I'm wrong, but there is no federal race in Kentucky in 2011 -- barring a special election.
He denied that the Grayson committee would dry up his own fundraising, in direct contradiction of his complaint that Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell's fundraising had precluded Bunning from raising much money by competing for scarce dollars.
Bunning's logic on McConnell was flawed in other respects. On the one hand, he complained that McConnell "wants to run everybody." On the other hand, Bunning attributed every Republican Senate seat lost to McConnell. He called McConnell "selfish," notwithstanding that it was McConnell who saved Bunning from losing his last election. Bunning's real problem is that he cannot win without McConnell once again rescuing him.
Bunning said he "won't walk into 2010 with less than $1 million," conceding that the race will cost between $7-10 million. His next financial report is due in mid July.
Thank goodness Trey Grayson is not waiting to mid July to see the inevitable -- that Bunning's 30 year career in public service, while honorable and consistently conservative, is coming to an end that's painful to watch.
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
More Liberal Hypocrisy
For those whose hypocrisy meters did not explode over Secretary of the Treasury Tim Geithner announcing that he will crack down on tax cheats (other than himself), check out Sen. John Kerry's Congressional hearings.
It seems that when not wind surfing or injecting Botox, Kerry enjoys getting the print from dying newspapers all over his well-manicured hands. He's worried that the likes of the Boston Globe stand on the verge of bankruptcy because the little people no longer subscribe. He is on the case, according to Yahoo!:
Sen. John Kerry said Wednesday's hearing on the future of journalism comes as many papers falter and new ways of delivering information multiply by the day.
The Boston Globe in Kerry's home state of Massachusetts is the latest major paper facing the threat of closure unless it can cut costs.
Kerry said steps must be taken so the news media can stay diverse and independent.
"Diverse and independent" . . . wonder if Kerry will propose a newspaper bailout, with President Barack Obama as Editor-in-Chief. (Hey, he was president of the Harvard Law Review; he has more experience for E-i-C than for Commander-in-Chief).
If Kerry & Friends go the newspaper bailout route, our own Courier-Journal might find itself in the awkward position of urging Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell to seek an earmark.
It seems that when not wind surfing or injecting Botox, Kerry enjoys getting the print from dying newspapers all over his well-manicured hands. He's worried that the likes of the Boston Globe stand on the verge of bankruptcy because the little people no longer subscribe. He is on the case, according to Yahoo!:
Sen. John Kerry said Wednesday's hearing on the future of journalism comes as many papers falter and new ways of delivering information multiply by the day.
The Boston Globe in Kerry's home state of Massachusetts is the latest major paper facing the threat of closure unless it can cut costs.
Kerry said steps must be taken so the news media can stay diverse and independent.
"Diverse and independent" . . . wonder if Kerry will propose a newspaper bailout, with President Barack Obama as Editor-in-Chief. (Hey, he was president of the Harvard Law Review; he has more experience for E-i-C than for Commander-in-Chief).
If Kerry & Friends go the newspaper bailout route, our own Courier-Journal might find itself in the awkward position of urging Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell to seek an earmark.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Air Force One Borrows Former Governor Fletcher's Pilot
Did President Obama's pilot used to work in the Fletcher administration? That was our first reaction to the news that Air Force One had buzzed the Twin Towers site. Apparently, all the White House wanted was a photo op of the President's plane next to the Statue of Liberty to go on post cards. But no one bothered to tell Mayor Bloomberg or anyone else on the ground in New York City, causing many New Yorkers to flee in terror at the sight of the plane. Not since Governor Fletcher's plane took aim at the nation's capitol en route to President Reagan's funeral had an American politician's aircraft caused such a stir in the Office of Homeland Security.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
It is better to be hated than to be laughed at...
Many world leaders hated and feared George Bush, and that was not necessarily a bad thing. If evil or misguided people hate you, that can be an indication that you are on the right track. It seems that while Barack Obama is not hated by world leaders, he certainly must be a laughing stock.
First he goes on an "Apology Tour" to apologize for all the mistakes of this horrible country, then he genuflects to a Muslim king and glad hands a murderous thug! It seems that many world leaders loved his Apology Tour with his pretty wife and his aw shucks attitude, but when it came to his requests for help (placement of Gitmo prisoners, help in Afganistan, bailout money, etc) they almost laughed him out the door.
I would love to be a fly on the wall for the private conversations of many of these world leaders. I bet they are saying things about Obama that the NYT would never print!
Obama is President of the most powerful nation on earth, but I am not sure he understands what that means. He seems more like a community organizer..oops..I forgot that that is what he was. When you are President of the most powerful nation on the earth, you need to be strong, confident and bold. There are those of us who were against Obama's policies during the election, but we did not think he was a wimp. Boy, were we wrong!
First he goes on an "Apology Tour" to apologize for all the mistakes of this horrible country, then he genuflects to a Muslim king and glad hands a murderous thug! It seems that many world leaders loved his Apology Tour with his pretty wife and his aw shucks attitude, but when it came to his requests for help (placement of Gitmo prisoners, help in Afganistan, bailout money, etc) they almost laughed him out the door.
I would love to be a fly on the wall for the private conversations of many of these world leaders. I bet they are saying things about Obama that the NYT would never print!
Obama is President of the most powerful nation on earth, but I am not sure he understands what that means. He seems more like a community organizer..oops..I forgot that that is what he was. When you are President of the most powerful nation on the earth, you need to be strong, confident and bold. There are those of us who were against Obama's policies during the election, but we did not think he was a wimp. Boy, were we wrong!
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Tax And Spend = Bad Ending For This Fellow
King Louis XVI, executed in the French Revolution after bankrupting France, checks out the festivities at Louisville's Tea Party.The Score Is Now Tied
A new Rasmussen poll shows that when asked in the context of a generic congressional ballot which party they support, Americans stating a preference are now equally divided between Republicans and Democrats -- 38% to 38%. So much for the left wing media's obituary for the Republican party after last November's election.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Happy Tax Day
As you file your tax return (or your extension) today, consider that if you're 40 years old, you will pay $81,000 just to service the debt on the Obama budget. If you're 50, you'll pay $132,ooo in interest on the debt in the Obama budget. No wonder taxpayers are taking to the streets.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Fidel Castro Feels Reinvigorated
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Obama Saves Cuba and I Am Not Smart Enough
Last night on the 6:00 pm NBC News, I heard Brian Williams mention that the Obama administration was easing restrictions on Cuba in defiance to the George Bush restrictions on Cuba. My ears immediately picked up.
First I thought it was Kennedy that imposed the restrictions on Cuba, but then I realized that each president must impose restrictions as deemed necessary. I did some research on the web and found out that “Last May, former President George W. Bush announced a new policy that people living in the United States could include cell phones in gift parcels sent to Cubans. At the time, Bush aides said that U.S. residents could pay for the cell service attached to phones they send.
Sending money to senior government officials and Communist Party members remains prohibited under Obama's new policy. Restrictions imposed by the Bush administration had limited Cuban travel by Americans to just two weeks every three years. Visits also were confined to immediate family members.”
You really have to be smarter than me to watch the news with clarity. So if President Obama reduces restriction on Cuba in defiance of the Bush administration, we see that he has opened up the possibility of communications with Cuba by use of cell phones that are not supplied and paid for by the Cuban family members living here in the states. Telecommunications can now broadcast and send satellite signals into Cuba if Cuba allows it. Now I get it!
The second point is made that Cuban Americans can now travel more often then the imposed restrictions of the Bush administration. See, under the Bush administration they were only allowed (restricted) to travel just two weeks every three years and travel was confined to immediate family members. So I guess before President Bush’s restrictions on travel were much more open and unlimited?
I just don’t remember a time before President Bush’s administration where we could travel unlimited to Cuba, but I guess it must have been.
There also were comments made on TV that only America is restricting trade to Cuba while the rest of the world is not. I had to laugh because immediately they showed a scene in Cuba with old cars traveling the roads (which were not heavily traveled) with less than modern and unkempt building in the background to show us the positive affect that the rest of the world has had on Cuba.
I was also watching C Span last night and was honored to view the first bi-lingual Presidential Press Conference. I was confused here as well when I heard Dan Restrepo answer a question, that was asked in English, in Spanish. I recognized the person who asked the question was Hispanic but her command of the English language as well as her diction was perfect. Previously I had no idea she was Hispanic when she asked the question. I actually got a little upset. I was not able to understand the answer listening to my President’s Press Conference. I know I am to blame since I don’t understand Spanish and I should. Additionally the answer was not provided in English by sub captioning below the screen and no one translated the answer into English later. See this is where I was not smart enough to watch the news and keep informed. I found out today that Restrepo was giving the answer in Spanish for the benefit of those watching C-Span in Cuba. Now that makes much more sense to me. I was not aware that C-Span was broadcast to Cuba (because I thought there were restrictions from the Bush Administration) and I was not aware that the Cubans must watch C-Span while not understanding a word of English, but for this one question answered in Spanish it must have been crystal clear.
First I thought it was Kennedy that imposed the restrictions on Cuba, but then I realized that each president must impose restrictions as deemed necessary. I did some research on the web and found out that “Last May, former President George W. Bush announced a new policy that people living in the United States could include cell phones in gift parcels sent to Cubans. At the time, Bush aides said that U.S. residents could pay for the cell service attached to phones they send.
Sending money to senior government officials and Communist Party members remains prohibited under Obama's new policy. Restrictions imposed by the Bush administration had limited Cuban travel by Americans to just two weeks every three years. Visits also were confined to immediate family members.”
You really have to be smarter than me to watch the news with clarity. So if President Obama reduces restriction on Cuba in defiance of the Bush administration, we see that he has opened up the possibility of communications with Cuba by use of cell phones that are not supplied and paid for by the Cuban family members living here in the states. Telecommunications can now broadcast and send satellite signals into Cuba if Cuba allows it. Now I get it!
The second point is made that Cuban Americans can now travel more often then the imposed restrictions of the Bush administration. See, under the Bush administration they were only allowed (restricted) to travel just two weeks every three years and travel was confined to immediate family members. So I guess before President Bush’s restrictions on travel were much more open and unlimited?
I just don’t remember a time before President Bush’s administration where we could travel unlimited to Cuba, but I guess it must have been.
There also were comments made on TV that only America is restricting trade to Cuba while the rest of the world is not. I had to laugh because immediately they showed a scene in Cuba with old cars traveling the roads (which were not heavily traveled) with less than modern and unkempt building in the background to show us the positive affect that the rest of the world has had on Cuba.
I was also watching C Span last night and was honored to view the first bi-lingual Presidential Press Conference. I was confused here as well when I heard Dan Restrepo answer a question, that was asked in English, in Spanish. I recognized the person who asked the question was Hispanic but her command of the English language as well as her diction was perfect. Previously I had no idea she was Hispanic when she asked the question. I actually got a little upset. I was not able to understand the answer listening to my President’s Press Conference. I know I am to blame since I don’t understand Spanish and I should. Additionally the answer was not provided in English by sub captioning below the screen and no one translated the answer into English later. See this is where I was not smart enough to watch the news and keep informed. I found out today that Restrepo was giving the answer in Spanish for the benefit of those watching C-Span in Cuba. Now that makes much more sense to me. I was not aware that C-Span was broadcast to Cuba (because I thought there were restrictions from the Bush Administration) and I was not aware that the Cubans must watch C-Span while not understanding a word of English, but for this one question answered in Spanish it must have been crystal clear.
Monday, April 13, 2009
Kentucky Vote Fraud Case Gets National Attention
Townhall has linked an article about prosecution of political "bosses" in southeastern Kentucky who allegedly bought votes. It begins,
Folks in this hardscrabble town tucked into the Appalachian hills don't seem to have much hope when they talk about the latest bunch of officials accused of masterminding crooked county elections.
Residents say votes could be bought for years, underscored by the March indictment of eight officials accused of rigging elections in Clay County. Federal prosecutors say they were part of a scheme to extort undisclosed amounts of cash allegedly used to bribe voters at the polls.
There are hints of optimism that the feds could clean up a long-standing tradition of corruption in this impoverished nook of southeastern Kentucky, some 95 miles south of Lexington, where people struggling to pay the bills and find good jobs were easy targets for vote-buying. For now, disgust abounds.
It's a fairly lengthy article which nonetheless fails to note the party affiliation of any of the defendants. How to explain that glaring omission?
Folks in this hardscrabble town tucked into the Appalachian hills don't seem to have much hope when they talk about the latest bunch of officials accused of masterminding crooked county elections.
Residents say votes could be bought for years, underscored by the March indictment of eight officials accused of rigging elections in Clay County. Federal prosecutors say they were part of a scheme to extort undisclosed amounts of cash allegedly used to bribe voters at the polls.
There are hints of optimism that the feds could clean up a long-standing tradition of corruption in this impoverished nook of southeastern Kentucky, some 95 miles south of Lexington, where people struggling to pay the bills and find good jobs were easy targets for vote-buying. For now, disgust abounds.
It's a fairly lengthy article which nonetheless fails to note the party affiliation of any of the defendants. How to explain that glaring omission?
Way to Go, Navy Seals!
We are very proud of the U.S. Navy Seals who ended the pirate stand-off yesterday, and the brave captain they rescued. What a glorious answer to prayer for Easter Sunday.
Now it's time to amend the Federal Criminal Code to make piracy punishable by the death penalty. It wouldn't apply to the pirate in custody, of course, but it might deter some of the 1,500 known pirates in Somalia from futher terrorizing U.S. merchant ships.
Likewise, the United States should not enter any treaties that prohibit our merchant ships from arming their crews.
Now it's time to amend the Federal Criminal Code to make piracy punishable by the death penalty. It wouldn't apply to the pirate in custody, of course, but it might deter some of the 1,500 known pirates in Somalia from futher terrorizing U.S. merchant ships.
Likewise, the United States should not enter any treaties that prohibit our merchant ships from arming their crews.
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Bunning is No. 2!
Senator Jim Bunning is no longer the most vulnerable incumbent in the U.S. Senate, according to Roll Call. He's been displaced by Sen. Chris Dodd (D-CT), who is up to his eyeballs in corruption charges relating to his sweetheart mortgage, his wife's connections to AIG and moving his family to Iowa when he ran for president, among other problems.
So Bunning, like Avis, is now No. 2. Guess that means he has the "big mo."
So Bunning, like Avis, is now No. 2. Guess that means he has the "big mo."
It's Almost Tea Time
Resa Camoriano at the Jefferson Review reminds us that Louisville's "tea party" will take place April 15 from 11:00-1:00 at 6th and Jefferson Street.
Save the date, and come to protest an Obama administration that spends too much, taxes too much and borrows too much. I don't want to waste my Earl Grey, so I think I'll bring "green" tea.
Save the date, and come to protest an Obama administration that spends too much, taxes too much and borrows too much. I don't want to waste my Earl Grey, so I think I'll bring "green" tea.
Monday, March 30, 2009
Why Does President Obama Fear People Expressing Their Opinions?
There is a YouTube video going around representing Thomas Payne and his concern about our Republic as he envisioned it. The video was requesting that if you agreed with the concept of the video to send a "Tea Bag" to your representatives and the White House.
Not wanting to create a large problem but to express my concern I sent a picture of a tea bag to both the president and my representative.
Well it looks as if the YouTube video and people sending tea bags might have started something. Bob Basso, the creator of the YouTube, reportedly has been summoned to the White House to discuss the subject matter of the short films. You can read the story and view both his videos at this link.
http://www.wnd.com/index.php?fa=PAGE.view&pageId=92999
I am amazed that the most powerful man in this world is concerned about the likes of this YouTube guy and Rush Limbaugh. I would think the President would be more concerned about things like; the economy, Afghanistan, Russian, North Korea, you know, important stuff, not just people expressing their opinions.
Why is he so concerned?
Not wanting to create a large problem but to express my concern I sent a picture of a tea bag to both the president and my representative.
Well it looks as if the YouTube video and people sending tea bags might have started something. Bob Basso, the creator of the YouTube, reportedly has been summoned to the White House to discuss the subject matter of the short films. You can read the story and view both his videos at this link.
http://www.wnd.com/index.php?fa=PAGE.view&pageId=92999
I am amazed that the most powerful man in this world is concerned about the likes of this YouTube guy and Rush Limbaugh. I would think the President would be more concerned about things like; the economy, Afghanistan, Russian, North Korea, you know, important stuff, not just people expressing their opinions.
Why is he so concerned?
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Geithner and Butt-Head
Excuse me for using a little bit of humor today but I just find this funny.
Remember the cartoon from the 90's Beavis and Butt-Head? OK, I never really watched it but it seemed to be on the TV all the time. Have you ever wondered what happened to Beavis? I might have the answer.
Overseas Contingency Operations aka: Global War on Terror
Seems the War on Terror is over but there is a new operation taking over: “Overseas Contingency Operations.” Yeah, that’s much clearer. What did Shakespeare say; “A rose by any other name……”
"The end of the Global War on Terror -- or at least the use of that phrase -- has been codified at the Pentagon. Reports that the phrase was being retired have been circulating for some time amongst senior administration officials, and this morning speechwriters and other staff were notified via this e-mail to use 'Overseas Contingency Operation' instead."
http://www.weeklystandard.com/weblogs/TWSFP/2009/03/thats_quite_a_contingency.asp
"The end of the Global War on Terror -- or at least the use of that phrase -- has been codified at the Pentagon. Reports that the phrase was being retired have been circulating for some time amongst senior administration officials, and this morning speechwriters and other staff were notified via this e-mail to use 'Overseas Contingency Operation' instead."
http://www.weeklystandard.com/weblogs/TWSFP/2009/03/thats_quite_a_contingency.asp
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Geithner's Gigantic Gaffe
George Soros no doubt made a lot of money this morning from the latest Geithner gaffe. No wonder Soros, the greatest currency speculator of all time, is such a big Obama supporter.
Here's what happened, according to Bloomberg:
Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner sent the dollar tumbling with comments about China’s ideas for overhauling the global monetary system, only to drive it back up by affirming that it should remain the world’s reserve currency.
Geithner was initially asked at a Council on Foreign Relations event in New York about proposals from People’s Bank of China Governor Zhou Xiaochuan for a new international reserve currency. He said “as I understand his proposal, it’s a proposal designed to increase the use of the IMF’s special drawing rights. And we’re actually quite open to that.”
The dollar slid as much as 1.3 percent against the euro within 10 minutes of news accounts of Geithner’s remarks. The U.S. currency was down 0.6 percent at $1.3553 as of 12:31 p.m. in New York.
Roger Altman, who worked with Geithner as deputy Treasury secretary in the Clinton administration, later asked Geithner whether he wanted to “clarify” his remarks.
“I’d like to ask one final question, in effect on behalf of the market,” said Altman, founder of Evercore Partners Inc. “Let me ask the question this way. Do you see any change over the foreseeable future in the basic role of the dollar as the world’s key reserve currency?”
. . . .
. . . .
Geithner responded by saying that “I think the dollar remains the world’s dominant reserve currency.” In an interview with CNBC broadcast after the event, the Treasury chief said that a “strong dollar” is in “America’s interest.”
Those minutes between Geithner's goofy remark and his "clarification" in response to Altman's softball follow-up question cost literally billions of dollars on the currency exchange. More than enough time for the likes of Soros, et al. to reap enough to finance the Obama's 2012 re-election campaign.
Geithnie, you're doing a heckuva job!
Update: Speaking of George Soros, the MailOnline reports his having pocketed $1.1 billion off the recession in 2008 through his hedge fund management. Soros boasted: "'I'm having a very good crisis." We can't wait to see this year's numbers.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Louisville Tea Party Wednesday April 15th 11:00am to 1:00pm
Just reading about the Lexington, KY Tea Party I thought it appropriate to mention that Louisville KY will also have their "Tea Party".
Louisville, Ky. – Wednesday, April 15, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Jefferson Square (tentative location), 10th and Jefferson St.
If you are interested just e-mail Wendy Caswell at LouisvilleTeaParty@gmail.com
As of right now all you need to do is show up on tax day ready to be heard. Also she has planned a poster making party on April 9th (Thursday) at the JCRP Headquarters at 5pm. If you would like to help with that please contact Wendy and she can give you more information on that. I hope to see you soon. We will be heard.
(The above information has been "borrowed" by me from Wendy Caswell. I do hope she understands the reason for my plagiarism.)
Now my second point is a shameless promotion for the Voice Tribune.
In Louisville there is an alternative for news called the Voice Tribune. I highly recommend this publication in as it gives a different perspective than we are use to seeing in the Courier-Journal. The Voice Tribune offers columns by Michelle Malkin and Dennis Prager. They also feature a column by two locals under the name of Adam and McCall. In reading the article by Adam and McCall, they speak of the new Republican Party leader here in Louisville KY. Seems he is doing a great job in the fund raising aspect. But I digress. Here is the nut of the information I took away from the article. Guess how many republicans are in the Louisville area. No really take a guess then scroll down
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The number of registered republicans is around 160,000. Can you imagine this? The town of Mitch McConnell, Anne Northup and the list goes on, all supported by 160,000 Republicans! Something is wrong here. Metro Louisville is about one million in population and we only have 160,000 registered republican. What is that about 20% or under????? Come on this is crazy.
Now, I bet a lot of people that are reading this are members of the other party that Andrew Jackson so proudly used the Jack Ass as its party symbol.
Now, I also bet a lot of you were told that if you wanted your vote to count in Louisville or Kentucky than you better register democratic since we are a democrat area. Well if you are registered as a Dem but are thinking more to the right, how do you find out about the goings on in the RNC? You won’t be asked for a donation or to help on fund raisers or events. You’re just not on the mailing list or in their sights.
I too use to be a Democrat but a few years of being a “businessman” convinced me that the Dems were not really helping me. Against my parent’s judgment I converted to the Republican Party. I have been happy ever since. Proud is a better word.
So my second offer is this. If you feel the same way I do and you want to convert then I have a link for you.
http://www.jeffersoncountyclerk.org/voter-info/registrationcard.pdf
How can a republican ever be a contender in this state if we all hide behind the Democrat Party? There is strength in numbers.
I have had enough, how about you.
Louisville, Ky. – Wednesday, April 15, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Jefferson Square (tentative location), 10th and Jefferson St.
If you are interested just e-mail Wendy Caswell at LouisvilleTeaParty@gmail.com
As of right now all you need to do is show up on tax day ready to be heard. Also she has planned a poster making party on April 9th (Thursday) at the JCRP Headquarters at 5pm. If you would like to help with that please contact Wendy and she can give you more information on that. I hope to see you soon. We will be heard.
(The above information has been "borrowed" by me from Wendy Caswell. I do hope she understands the reason for my plagiarism.)
Now my second point is a shameless promotion for the Voice Tribune.
In Louisville there is an alternative for news called the Voice Tribune. I highly recommend this publication in as it gives a different perspective than we are use to seeing in the Courier-Journal. The Voice Tribune offers columns by Michelle Malkin and Dennis Prager. They also feature a column by two locals under the name of Adam and McCall. In reading the article by Adam and McCall, they speak of the new Republican Party leader here in Louisville KY. Seems he is doing a great job in the fund raising aspect. But I digress. Here is the nut of the information I took away from the article. Guess how many republicans are in the Louisville area. No really take a guess then scroll down
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
The number of registered republicans is around 160,000. Can you imagine this? The town of Mitch McConnell, Anne Northup and the list goes on, all supported by 160,000 Republicans! Something is wrong here. Metro Louisville is about one million in population and we only have 160,000 registered republican. What is that about 20% or under????? Come on this is crazy.
Now, I bet a lot of people that are reading this are members of the other party that Andrew Jackson so proudly used the Jack Ass as its party symbol.
Now, I also bet a lot of you were told that if you wanted your vote to count in Louisville or Kentucky than you better register democratic since we are a democrat area. Well if you are registered as a Dem but are thinking more to the right, how do you find out about the goings on in the RNC? You won’t be asked for a donation or to help on fund raisers or events. You’re just not on the mailing list or in their sights.
I too use to be a Democrat but a few years of being a “businessman” convinced me that the Dems were not really helping me. Against my parent’s judgment I converted to the Republican Party. I have been happy ever since. Proud is a better word.
So my second offer is this. If you feel the same way I do and you want to convert then I have a link for you.
http://www.jeffersoncountyclerk.org/voter-info/registrationcard.pdf
How can a republican ever be a contender in this state if we all hide behind the Democrat Party? There is strength in numbers.
I have had enough, how about you.
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Tea, Anyone?
"Tea parties" patterned after the Boston Tea Party are springing up across the nation as voters manifest their disgust with the Obama Administration's profligate spending of our tax dollars.
Last weekend, four thousand people protested federal spending at the Cincinatti tea party. (Check out the Instapundit's pictures.) This Saturday, Lexington gets its own tea party, hosted by WLAP, the Club For Growth and the Bluegrass Institute. The fun starts at noon at the Fayette County Courthouse.
It's a decentralized movement that has caught on by virtue of the power of its message rather than any organizational force, as David Vickers writes:
The American tea party movement bears more resemblance to a rolling block party than a unified organized movement or cause. And that’s precisely why I love it. These people are nice. They’re smart. They come from all walks of life. And they’re sincere. I’ve met hard-hat wearing construction managers, accountants, school teachers, the unemployed, retirees, even the nicest anarchist couple who are worried about their kids’ futures.
And the numbers of protests and protesters continue to stagger, from the consistent low hundreds to the thousands — in all types of political and meteorological climates.
This broad spread outrage with the Obama Administration's spending contrasts with the fake grassroots support that Team Obama is trying to impose from the top down by reactivating its campaign apparatus. So desperate is Obama to gin up support for his budget that he even has called upon Moveon.org to help.
Millions of campaign supporters are receiving e-mails urging them to call members of Congress. Groups allied with the White House are running ads scorning the president's foes. States that were closely contested in the 2008 election are again getting visits from Obama.
While he's in road-trip mode, Obama should take the time to visit one of the tea parties. He'd realize that Rush Limbaugh is not the leader of the Republican Party; John Galt is. And all those women swooning --it's not over Barry's abs, but rather the size of the deficit.
Last weekend, four thousand people protested federal spending at the Cincinatti tea party. (Check out the Instapundit's pictures.) This Saturday, Lexington gets its own tea party, hosted by WLAP, the Club For Growth and the Bluegrass Institute. The fun starts at noon at the Fayette County Courthouse.
It's a decentralized movement that has caught on by virtue of the power of its message rather than any organizational force, as David Vickers writes:
The American tea party movement bears more resemblance to a rolling block party than a unified organized movement or cause. And that’s precisely why I love it. These people are nice. They’re smart. They come from all walks of life. And they’re sincere. I’ve met hard-hat wearing construction managers, accountants, school teachers, the unemployed, retirees, even the nicest anarchist couple who are worried about their kids’ futures.
And the numbers of protests and protesters continue to stagger, from the consistent low hundreds to the thousands — in all types of political and meteorological climates.
This broad spread outrage with the Obama Administration's spending contrasts with the fake grassroots support that Team Obama is trying to impose from the top down by reactivating its campaign apparatus. So desperate is Obama to gin up support for his budget that he even has called upon Moveon.org to help.
Millions of campaign supporters are receiving e-mails urging them to call members of Congress. Groups allied with the White House are running ads scorning the president's foes. States that were closely contested in the 2008 election are again getting visits from Obama.
While he's in road-trip mode, Obama should take the time to visit one of the tea parties. He'd realize that Rush Limbaugh is not the leader of the Republican Party; John Galt is. And all those women swooning --it's not over Barry's abs, but rather the size of the deficit.
A Not So Happy St. Patrick's Day
This is what the Louisville Metro Government did yesterday to vehicles not wearing enough green.Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Sunday, March 15, 2009
McConnell Writes in NYT on Judges
Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell exposes hypocrisy on the part of the New York Times when it comes to judicial confirmations.
No surprise there. Still, it has to be said, and McConnell has done more to uphold the rule of law than anyone by insisting that judicial nominees receive an up or down vote.
Here's McConnell's letter.
No surprise there. Still, it has to be said, and McConnell has done more to uphold the rule of law than anyone by insisting that judicial nominees receive an up or down vote.
Here's McConnell's letter.
McConnell Op-Ed in WaPo on Gitmo
Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell has a pieces in today's Washington Post. In the Post, McConnell criticizes the Obama administration's plan to close Guantanamo Bay's detention facility and send the enemy combatants (a term Obama refuses to use) to mainland American prisons in Colorado and Kansas.
McConnell accurately frames the issue as safety vs. popularity:
"While some have raised the concern that holding enemy combatants at Guantanamo damages our prestige, any plan to transfer or release them must meet a simple test: Will it keep Americans as safe as Guantanamo has? If the answer is no, the administration must explain why fulfilling a campaign promise or pleasing European critics is a more important consideration."
There are no good alternatives to Gitmo that can keep Americans safe, McConnell notes:
First, not a single detainee has ever escaped to maim or kill innocents. Guantanamo Bay is, above all else, secure and safely distant from civilian populations.
That is, Gitmo actually works. It incarcerates the worst of the worst terrorists and prevents them from achieving their life objective: killing our citizens and destroying our country.
McConnell accurately frames the issue as safety vs. popularity:
"While some have raised the concern that holding enemy combatants at Guantanamo damages our prestige, any plan to transfer or release them must meet a simple test: Will it keep Americans as safe as Guantanamo has? If the answer is no, the administration must explain why fulfilling a campaign promise or pleasing European critics is a more important consideration."
There are no good alternatives to Gitmo that can keep Americans safe, McConnell notes:
First, not a single detainee has ever escaped to maim or kill innocents. Guantanamo Bay is, above all else, secure and safely distant from civilian populations.
That is, Gitmo actually works. It incarcerates the worst of the worst terrorists and prevents them from achieving their life objective: killing our citizens and destroying our country.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Getting To Yes
Republicans really do want to work with Democrats. That was the message conveyed by Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell in an interview with Bloomberg yesterday, as reported by AOLNews.com. The notable quote:
"No one wants him to fail," McConnell told Bloomberg, referring to Obama, and taking an indirect swipe at Rush Limbaugh. "But saying 'no' to bad policy is not saying 'no' to everything."
In its report, Bloomberg noted that McConnell outlined areas of potential agreement between the President and the Republicans:
In the interview, McConnell said one issue he and Obama might work together on is a possible move to recast at least one of the three major entitlement programs -- Social Security, Medicare or Medicaid. At a White House health-care forum last week, he told Obama an accord would be easier to reach if a bipartisan task force of lawmakers made recommendations.
They also may find common cause on foreign policy, he said. Senator Richard Lugar of Indiana, the top-ranking Republican on the Foreign Relations Committee agreed, saying the two might be allies if the U.S. and Russia begin to forge a new nuclear arms-reduction agreement.
For Republicans to say yes, however, Obama, Reid, Pelosi and company need to practice true bipartisanship: that is, meeting the Republicans somewhere in the middle, as opposed to requiring Republicans to toe the Democrat line completely.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
"No one wants him to fail," McConnell told Bloomberg, referring to Obama, and taking an indirect swipe at Rush Limbaugh. "But saying 'no' to bad policy is not saying 'no' to everything."
In its report, Bloomberg noted that McConnell outlined areas of potential agreement between the President and the Republicans:
In the interview, McConnell said one issue he and Obama might work together on is a possible move to recast at least one of the three major entitlement programs -- Social Security, Medicare or Medicaid. At a White House health-care forum last week, he told Obama an accord would be easier to reach if a bipartisan task force of lawmakers made recommendations.
They also may find common cause on foreign policy, he said. Senator Richard Lugar of Indiana, the top-ranking Republican on the Foreign Relations Committee agreed, saying the two might be allies if the U.S. and Russia begin to forge a new nuclear arms-reduction agreement.
For Republicans to say yes, however, Obama, Reid, Pelosi and company need to practice true bipartisanship: that is, meeting the Republicans somewhere in the middle, as opposed to requiring Republicans to toe the Democrat line completely.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
McConnell: Budget Spends Too Much, Taxes Too Much and Borrows Too Much
Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell has a piece on National Review Online:
“In the midst of an economic crisis, government has an obligation to show some restraint. But looking at the final omnibus bill, Americans are likely to conclude that congressional leaders think government operates in a different realm of reality than the rest of the country. It seems some still believe members of Congress aren’t obliged to make any of the tough decisions that most other people do.”
McConnell notes that Republican amendments to the budget could have saved taxpayers billions of dollars. Yet Democrats defeated every single Republican amendment, including:
“In the midst of an economic crisis, government has an obligation to show some restraint. But looking at the final omnibus bill, Americans are likely to conclude that congressional leaders think government operates in a different realm of reality than the rest of the country. It seems some still believe members of Congress aren’t obliged to make any of the tough decisions that most other people do.”
McConnell notes that Republican amendments to the budget could have saved taxpayers billions of dollars. Yet Democrats defeated every single Republican amendment, including:
- Sen. John McCain's amendment to freeze spending at last year's level;
- an amendment to cut the duplicate spending that allows programs to double-dip in in the stimulus package and budget;
- a proposal to cut money going to a lobbying firm under investigation.
In addition to the waste, the Democrats rejected a Republican amendment to prohibit bringing back the Fairness Doctrine.
Democrats rejected a Republican proposal to allow the D.C. school voucher program to continue, even though it is wildly successful and saves money; this will force some classmates at Sasha and Malia Obama's private school to drop out.
Democrats would not even agree to a requirement, proposed by Republicans, that the Secretary of State certify that any funds spent for reconstruction in Gaza would not go to Hamas.
These are common sense amendments that most Americans support. Democrats voted down each and every one.
So much for the Age of Obamian Post-Partisanship.
Is Obama Another Tricky Dicky?
Camille Paglia hits the nail (i.e., the White House) on the head in her commentary today on, among other things, the Obama administration's sophomoric taunts of Rush Limbaugh:
The orchestrated attack on radio host Rush Limbaugh, which has made the White House look like an oafish bunch of drunken frat boys. I returned from carnival in Brazil (more on that shortly) to find the Limbaugh affair in full flower. Has the administration gone mad? This entire fracas was set off by the president himself, who lowered his office by targeting a private citizen by name. Limbaugh had every right to counterattack, which he did with gusto. Why have so many Democrats abandoned the hallowed principle of free speech? Limbaugh, like our own liberal culture hero Lenny Bruce, is a professional commentator who can be as rude and crude as he wants.
Meanwhile, Rush is laughing all the way to the bank. For Obama to get so defensive about a radio show host suggests an insecurity in the Oval Office not seen since the days of Richard Nixon's enemies list.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
The orchestrated attack on radio host Rush Limbaugh, which has made the White House look like an oafish bunch of drunken frat boys. I returned from carnival in Brazil (more on that shortly) to find the Limbaugh affair in full flower. Has the administration gone mad? This entire fracas was set off by the president himself, who lowered his office by targeting a private citizen by name. Limbaugh had every right to counterattack, which he did with gusto. Why have so many Democrats abandoned the hallowed principle of free speech? Limbaugh, like our own liberal culture hero Lenny Bruce, is a professional commentator who can be as rude and crude as he wants.
Meanwhile, Rush is laughing all the way to the bank. For Obama to get so defensive about a radio show host suggests an insecurity in the Oval Office not seen since the days of Richard Nixon's enemies list.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Bunning Loses It Again -- This Time, Over Poll Results
TheHill.com reports today's outburst from Senator Bunning:
Amid the soap opera-like drama that has become Sen. Jim Bunning's (R-Ky.) political future, the lawmaker has commissioned the first poll of his bid for a third term — and he's not releasing the results."It's none of your godd---ed business," Bunning told reporters on a morning conference call, when asked about the poll's results. "If you paid the 20 grand for the poll, you can get some information out of it."
Needless to say, that is not a comment inspiring much confidence in Bunning's poll numbers.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Amid the soap opera-like drama that has become Sen. Jim Bunning's (R-Ky.) political future, the lawmaker has commissioned the first poll of his bid for a third term — and he's not releasing the results."It's none of your godd---ed business," Bunning told reporters on a morning conference call, when asked about the poll's results. "If you paid the 20 grand for the poll, you can get some information out of it."
Needless to say, that is not a comment inspiring much confidence in Bunning's poll numbers.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Dems Backpedalling on Card Check
President Barack Obama is being outflanked on the right -- by members of his own party -- on the issue of taking away the secret ballot in union elections and replacing it with a "card" that workers can "check" while everyone watches.
Proposed card check legislation, the Employee Free Choice Act, appears to be well short of 60 votes in the Senate now that Democrats Ben Nelson(D-NE); N. Blanche Lincoln (D-AR):Mark Pryor (D-AR); Mary Landrieu (D-LA) have expressed deep reservations about card check.
As Sen. Landrieu noted, card check is the last thing our economy needs right now. "I do have a concern about the impact on the economy."
Looks like that $100 million that labor spent electing Democrats last year is not going to bring the expected return.
Proposed card check legislation, the Employee Free Choice Act, appears to be well short of 60 votes in the Senate now that Democrats Ben Nelson(D-NE); N. Blanche Lincoln (D-AR):Mark Pryor (D-AR); Mary Landrieu (D-LA) have expressed deep reservations about card check.
As Sen. Landrieu noted, card check is the last thing our economy needs right now. "I do have a concern about the impact on the economy."
Looks like that $100 million that labor spent electing Democrats last year is not going to bring the expected return.
Monday, March 9, 2009
Warren Buffett Flatly Opposes Card Check
No equivocation here: Warren Buffett opposes card check, the proposed legislation that would get rid of secret ballots in union elections.
Buffett's opposition is significant because throughout the presidential campaign, Barack Obama touted Buffett's support. Apparently, support of a successful businessman is supposed to lull voters into ignoring those doubts about whether Obama actually believes in capitalism.
Too bad Buffett didn't make his statement last meet, in time for the AFL-CIO's winter meeting, to which Obama sent a video reiterating his support for card check.
H/t Hot Air
Buffett's opposition is significant because throughout the presidential campaign, Barack Obama touted Buffett's support. Apparently, support of a successful businessman is supposed to lull voters into ignoring those doubts about whether Obama actually believes in capitalism.
Too bad Buffett didn't make his statement last meet, in time for the AFL-CIO's winter meeting, to which Obama sent a video reiterating his support for card check.
H/t Hot Air
Sunday, March 8, 2009
In God The Mint Has Shrinking Trust
Note: This is a guest post by Eric Bush (age 11).
If you've seen a new presidential dollar coin, you may have noticed, only if you have good eyes, that "In God We Trust" and "E Pluribus Unum" have been placed in millimeter sized font on the side of the coin instead of in a larger font on the face of the dollar like other coins. For many, including me, this is outrage. This may have been a response to complaints about 1st amendment violations even though making "In God We Trust" visible is not preventing people from practicing their religion (or non-religion), nor does it establish any religion. I wonder what the presidents whose faces are on these coins would think of this matter. But because I can't ask them, I am encouraging you to comment on this post and tell me what you think.
Saturday, March 7, 2009
Did Reagan Save Gorbachev's Soul?
The Wall Street Journal has a piece that documents President Ronald Reagan's secret attempts to proselytize former Soviet Leader Mikhail Gorbachev.
At a 1988 summit in the former U.S.S.R., Reagan brought up the human rights issue of freedom of religion. The converstation then became more personal.
He told Gorbachev that what he was about to say would be considered entirely secret. According to the notetakers, Reagan told Gorbachev that "if word got out that this was even being discussed, the President would deny he had said anything about it." To emphasize this point, Reagan said again a few minutes later that "if there was anyone in the room who said he had given such advice [to Gorbachev about religion], he would say that person was lying, that he had never said it."
. . .
The president said he had a letter from the widow of a young World War II soldier. He was lying in a shell hole at midnight, awaiting an order to attack. He had never been a believer, because he had been told God did not exist. But as he looked up at the stars he voiced a prayer hoping that, if he died in battle, God would accept him. That piece of paper was found on the body of a young Russian soldier who was killed in that battle.
Gorbachev tried to switch the subject. Perhaps the United States and the Soviet Union might open the way for greater cooperation in space, he told the president. But the president wasn't to be diverted. According to the transcript, Reagan told Gorbachev that space was in the direction of heaven, but not as close to heaven as some other things that they had been discussing.
As the meeting ended, Reagan became even more direct and personal. He noted that his own son Ron did not believe in God either. "The President concluded that there was one thing he had long yearned to do for his atheist son. He wanted to serve his son the perfect gourmet dinner, to have him enjoy the meal, and then to ask him if he believed there was a cook."
A member of the clergy told me a few years ago that Gorbachev was a Christian, a fact Gorbachev revealed at considerable personal peril. I don't know the date of that profession (and will try to find out).
We don't know if when Reagan took the Great Commission to Russia, he was preaching to the choir, so to speak; Reagan had long suspected that Gorbachev believed in Christ. If so, how much comfort that fellowship must have brought Gorbachev, who for all his vast power could not worship freely.
Even more remarkable, Reagan may have helped bring Gorbachev to Christ. Winning the Cold War, restoring American supremacy after the disastrous Carter administration, saving our economy -- Reagan could take credit for all these feats. But none of these accomplishments compares to the value of one man's soul.
At a 1988 summit in the former U.S.S.R., Reagan brought up the human rights issue of freedom of religion. The converstation then became more personal.
He told Gorbachev that what he was about to say would be considered entirely secret. According to the notetakers, Reagan told Gorbachev that "if word got out that this was even being discussed, the President would deny he had said anything about it." To emphasize this point, Reagan said again a few minutes later that "if there was anyone in the room who said he had given such advice [to Gorbachev about religion], he would say that person was lying, that he had never said it."
. . .
The president said he had a letter from the widow of a young World War II soldier. He was lying in a shell hole at midnight, awaiting an order to attack. He had never been a believer, because he had been told God did not exist. But as he looked up at the stars he voiced a prayer hoping that, if he died in battle, God would accept him. That piece of paper was found on the body of a young Russian soldier who was killed in that battle.
Gorbachev tried to switch the subject. Perhaps the United States and the Soviet Union might open the way for greater cooperation in space, he told the president. But the president wasn't to be diverted. According to the transcript, Reagan told Gorbachev that space was in the direction of heaven, but not as close to heaven as some other things that they had been discussing.
As the meeting ended, Reagan became even more direct and personal. He noted that his own son Ron did not believe in God either. "The President concluded that there was one thing he had long yearned to do for his atheist son. He wanted to serve his son the perfect gourmet dinner, to have him enjoy the meal, and then to ask him if he believed there was a cook."
A member of the clergy told me a few years ago that Gorbachev was a Christian, a fact Gorbachev revealed at considerable personal peril. I don't know the date of that profession (and will try to find out).
We don't know if when Reagan took the Great Commission to Russia, he was preaching to the choir, so to speak; Reagan had long suspected that Gorbachev believed in Christ. If so, how much comfort that fellowship must have brought Gorbachev, who for all his vast power could not worship freely.
Even more remarkable, Reagan may have helped bring Gorbachev to Christ. Winning the Cold War, restoring American supremacy after the disastrous Carter administration, saving our economy -- Reagan could take credit for all these feats. But none of these accomplishments compares to the value of one man's soul.
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Obama's New New Deal Rolls Out The Barrel . . . Moving Downhill Fast!
President Obama's tax and spend assault on capitalism continues to have a devastating toll on the stock markets. Today, stocks resumed their slide. Drudge Report calls it "The Hemorrhaging". When we last checked, the Dow was down over 200 points -- easily erasing the gains from yesterday.
In their zeal to "stimulate" the economy, the Democrats ignore the first cardinal rule of tending to a sick patient -- do no harm. The Chinese government leadership seems to get it, having announced there will be no new "stimulus" package in their country.
It's a scary day when the Communist government in Red China is more conservative than Democrats running things in Washington, D.C.
Update: Here is the reality of the "change" brought about by Obama's economic policies, as reported by Yahoo! Finance:
The Dow is now down 24% year-to-date, while the S&P 500 has fallen slightly less since the start of the year. The Nasdaq is down almost 17% for the year.
Meanwhile, the S&P 400 Mid-cap Index and Russell 2000 Small-cap Index are showing year-to-date losses of 23% and 29%, respectively.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
In their zeal to "stimulate" the economy, the Democrats ignore the first cardinal rule of tending to a sick patient -- do no harm. The Chinese government leadership seems to get it, having announced there will be no new "stimulus" package in their country.
It's a scary day when the Communist government in Red China is more conservative than Democrats running things in Washington, D.C.
Update: Here is the reality of the "change" brought about by Obama's economic policies, as reported by Yahoo! Finance:
The Dow is now down 24% year-to-date, while the S&P 500 has fallen slightly less since the start of the year. The Nasdaq is down almost 17% for the year.
Meanwhile, the S&P 400 Mid-cap Index and Russell 2000 Small-cap Index are showing year-to-date losses of 23% and 29%, respectively.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
A Chance for Fiscal Sanity in Frankfort
Given Kentucky's budget crisis -- and how desperately our schools need upgrading -- one piece of legislation is like a breath of fresh air in Frankfort. It's SB 145, an Act Relating to School Construction, filed by Senator Damon Thayer. This legislation would exempt school's from the prevailing wage requirement of KRS 337.010.
That exemption would save schools approximately 21 percent on the labor costs of construction, which means that more schools could be built, repaired or upgraded for the same amount of money, according to the Kentucky Opportunity Coalition.
The Kentucky Department of Education Facilities Management Division found in 2004 that subjecting Kentucky schools to the prevailing wage requirement inflated construction costs by more than $480 million. That money could have done alot of good for our children, had it not been wasted.
Kentucky does not have that kind of money to squander -- particularly given that 90,000 of our children attend sub-par schools. For some districts, the problem is overcrowding. Other schools are in such bad shape that they should be condemned. Few schools offer the state of the art technology (like "smart classrooms") that can best help teachers teach and children learn.
So it is very refreshing to see someone introduce legislation that reflects good stewardship of our tax dollars and a practical way to help our schools. SB 145 deserves quick enactment. Tell your elected officials that Kentucky cannot afford to artificially inflate the cost of school construction by 21 percent.
That exemption would save schools approximately 21 percent on the labor costs of construction, which means that more schools could be built, repaired or upgraded for the same amount of money, according to the Kentucky Opportunity Coalition.
The Kentucky Department of Education Facilities Management Division found in 2004 that subjecting Kentucky schools to the prevailing wage requirement inflated construction costs by more than $480 million. That money could have done alot of good for our children, had it not been wasted.
Kentucky does not have that kind of money to squander -- particularly given that 90,000 of our children attend sub-par schools. For some districts, the problem is overcrowding. Other schools are in such bad shape that they should be condemned. Few schools offer the state of the art technology (like "smart classrooms") that can best help teachers teach and children learn.
So it is very refreshing to see someone introduce legislation that reflects good stewardship of our tax dollars and a practical way to help our schools. SB 145 deserves quick enactment. Tell your elected officials that Kentucky cannot afford to artificially inflate the cost of school construction by 21 percent.
Spend, Baby, Spend!
The Obama administration is spending our money so fast that it cannot even keep track of it all. Consequently, 122 federal programs get to double dip by receiving money from both the Stimulus package and the Omnibus appropriation legislation.
This is exactly what Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell warned of at his press conference last month, when he said. “Back in January, I suggested to the Democratic leadership that we take up the omnibus appropriation bill first. And I did that because I wanted to make sure that we were not engaged in duplicate spending when we finally went to the stimulus.”
For example the National Endowment of the Arts received $50 million in the Stimulus bill and $155 million in the Omnibus. Now that Obama wants to kill charitable giving by taking the deduction away from the people who do all the giving, he will make the arts completely dependant on the government; these millions are the first (and second) installment.
There's also duplicate spending for grants for community organizations like ACORN -- $1 billion in the Stimulus and $3.9 billion in the Omnibus.
Likewise, the National Institute for Standards and Technology gets to double dip -- $220 million in Stimulus and $472 million in the Omnibus. Maybe they'll finally get us switched to the metric system.
Fish and Wildlife are suffering from the recession, as more Americans are forced to eat what they kill. So the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service gets $165 million in Stimulus and $1.14 billion in the Omnibus.
Note the pattern. The Omnibus bill not only duplicates the Stimulus package, it magnifies it. The Omnibus appropriation bill is the Stimulus package on steroids.
This is exactly what Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell warned of at his press conference last month, when he said. “Back in January, I suggested to the Democratic leadership that we take up the omnibus appropriation bill first. And I did that because I wanted to make sure that we were not engaged in duplicate spending when we finally went to the stimulus.”
For example the National Endowment of the Arts received $50 million in the Stimulus bill and $155 million in the Omnibus. Now that Obama wants to kill charitable giving by taking the deduction away from the people who do all the giving, he will make the arts completely dependant on the government; these millions are the first (and second) installment.
There's also duplicate spending for grants for community organizations like ACORN -- $1 billion in the Stimulus and $3.9 billion in the Omnibus.
Likewise, the National Institute for Standards and Technology gets to double dip -- $220 million in Stimulus and $472 million in the Omnibus. Maybe they'll finally get us switched to the metric system.
Fish and Wildlife are suffering from the recession, as more Americans are forced to eat what they kill. So the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service gets $165 million in Stimulus and $1.14 billion in the Omnibus.
Note the pattern. The Omnibus bill not only duplicates the Stimulus package, it magnifies it. The Omnibus appropriation bill is the Stimulus package on steroids.
Seventies Sitcom Redux
If you are too young to understand the pun, you must have voted for Obama. Buy the tee shirt here.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Is Bunning the GOP's Burris?
Talk about embarrassing. In today's Chicago Tribune James Oliphant offered this unflattering analogy:
And you thought Democrats had a problem with Roland Burris?
Burris, the freshman senator from Illinois, has something in common with Jim Bunning, the irascible Republican senator from Kentucky. Their parties seem inclined to move on without them—if only they would get out of the way.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
And you thought Democrats had a problem with Roland Burris?
Burris, the freshman senator from Illinois, has something in common with Jim Bunning, the irascible Republican senator from Kentucky. Their parties seem inclined to move on without them—if only they would get out of the way.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Friday, February 27, 2009
He's Still Preoccupied With 198 . . 4
And now for the Democrats' feature Orwellian attraction, setting out the case for why President Bush is guilty of war crimes, Senator Patrick Leahy (D-Vt) presents:
February 26, 2009
NOTICE OF COMMITTEE HEARING
ROOM CHANGE TO SD-106
The hearing on “Getting to the Truth Through a Nonpartisan Commission of Inquiry” scheduled by the Senate Committee on the Judiciary for Wednesday, March 4, 2009 at 10:00 a.m. will take place in Room 106 of the Senate Dirksen Office Building rather than the previously scheduled room of SD-226.
By order of the Chairman
Witness List
Hearing before the
Senate Judiciary Committee
on
“Getting to the Truth Through a Nonpartisan Commission of Inquiry”
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Dirksen Senate Office Building Room 106
10:00 a.m.
Thomas Pickering
Vice Chairman
Hills & Company, International Consultants
Washington, D.C.
Retired Vice Admiral Lee Gunn
President
Institute of Public Research at The CNA Corporation
Arlington, VA
John Farmer
Partner
Arsenault, Whipple, Farmer, Fasset and Azzarello
Chatham, NJ
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
February 26, 2009
NOTICE OF COMMITTEE HEARING
ROOM CHANGE TO SD-106
The hearing on “Getting to the Truth Through a Nonpartisan Commission of Inquiry” scheduled by the Senate Committee on the Judiciary for Wednesday, March 4, 2009 at 10:00 a.m. will take place in Room 106 of the Senate Dirksen Office Building rather than the previously scheduled room of SD-226.
By order of the Chairman
Witness List
Hearing before the
Senate Judiciary Committee
on
“Getting to the Truth Through a Nonpartisan Commission of Inquiry”
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Dirksen Senate Office Building Room 106
10:00 a.m.
Thomas Pickering
Vice Chairman
Hills & Company, International Consultants
Washington, D.C.
Retired Vice Admiral Lee Gunn
President
Institute of Public Research at The CNA Corporation
Arlington, VA
John Farmer
Partner
Arsenault, Whipple, Farmer, Fasset and Azzarello
Chatham, NJ
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Better Late Than Never
President Barack Obama dismisses calls to scale back his massive plan to grow the government by asserting that Republicans are repeating the same old rhetoric.
Here's the difference. President George Bush did not govern as a fiscal conservative. He failed to veto one porker after the next. (The highway bill and the energy bill spring to mind as particularly egregious examples.)
Congressional Republicans went along for the spending spree, but it's hard to exercise discipline when daddy says you don't have to do your chores. Consequently, Republicans lost the trust of a sizable portion of the electorate. Having failed to govern like conservatives, Republicans watched our numbers erode -- the logical consequence of abandoning our principles.
It is therefore heartening to hear Congressional Republicans say "enough" to Obama's $3.55 trillion budget.
Reuters quotes Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell:
"I have serious concerns with this budget, which demands hard-working American families and job creators turn over more of their hard-earned money to the government to pay for unprecedented spending increases."
Likewise for other key Republicans:
"I think we just ought to admit we're broke. We can't continue to pile debt on the backs of our kids and grandkids," said House Republican Leader John Boehner.
Senator Judd Gregg, who recently withdrew as Obama's nominee to head the Commerce Department, citing differences over policy, offered a stinging rebuke of the president's budget plan.
"The budget outline shows a half-hearted attempt to reduce the trillion-dollar deficits we face, largely through more tax hikes that will only hurt the economy, when it should take this opportunity to exercise aggressive spending restraint," said Gregg, the top Republican on the Budget Committee.
And how great is it to have Gregg in the Senate! If Obama wants to raid any more Republicans for his cabinet, may we suggest Olympia Snowe, Susan Collins or Arlen Specter?
Here's the difference. President George Bush did not govern as a fiscal conservative. He failed to veto one porker after the next. (The highway bill and the energy bill spring to mind as particularly egregious examples.)
Congressional Republicans went along for the spending spree, but it's hard to exercise discipline when daddy says you don't have to do your chores. Consequently, Republicans lost the trust of a sizable portion of the electorate. Having failed to govern like conservatives, Republicans watched our numbers erode -- the logical consequence of abandoning our principles.
It is therefore heartening to hear Congressional Republicans say "enough" to Obama's $3.55 trillion budget.
Reuters quotes Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell:
"I have serious concerns with this budget, which demands hard-working American families and job creators turn over more of their hard-earned money to the government to pay for unprecedented spending increases."
Likewise for other key Republicans:
"I think we just ought to admit we're broke. We can't continue to pile debt on the backs of our kids and grandkids," said House Republican Leader John Boehner.
Senator Judd Gregg, who recently withdrew as Obama's nominee to head the Commerce Department, citing differences over policy, offered a stinging rebuke of the president's budget plan.
"The budget outline shows a half-hearted attempt to reduce the trillion-dollar deficits we face, largely through more tax hikes that will only hurt the economy, when it should take this opportunity to exercise aggressive spending restraint," said Gregg, the top Republican on the Budget Committee.
And how great is it to have Gregg in the Senate! If Obama wants to raid any more Republicans for his cabinet, may we suggest Olympia Snowe, Susan Collins or Arlen Specter?
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Jindal's Response
He is the future of the Republican Party. Here are excerpts from the prepared remarks of Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal to President Barack Obama's address to Congress:
“As I grew up, my mom and dad taught me the values that attracted them to this country - and they instilled in me an immigrant’s wonder at the greatness of America. As a child, I remember going to the grocery store with my dad. Growing up in India, he had seen extreme poverty. And as we walked through the aisles, looking at the endless variety on the shelves, he would tell me: ‘Bobby, Americans can do anything.’ I still believe that to this day.
…
“Republicans are ready to work with the new President to provide those solutions. Here in my state of Louisiana, we don’t care what party you belong to if you have good ideas to make life better for our people. We need more of that attitude from both Democrats and Republicans in our nation’s capital. All of us want our economy to recover and our nation to prosper. So where we agree, Republicans must be the President’s strongest partners. And where we disagree, Republicans have a responsibility to be candid and offer better ideas for a path forward.
…
“The strength of America is not found in our government. It is found in the compassionate hearts and enterprising spirit of our citizens.
…
“To solve our current problems, Washington must lead. But the way to lead is not to raise taxes and put more money and power in hands of Washington politicians. The way to lead is by empowering you - the American people. Because we believe that Americans can do anything.
…
“Democratic leaders say their legislation will grow the economy. What it will do is grow the government, increase our taxes down the line, and saddle future generations with debt. 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? That is precisely what the Democrats in Congress just did. It’s irresponsible. And it’s no way to strengthen our economy, create jobs, or build a prosperous future for our children.
…
“In recent years, these distinctions in philosophy became less clear - because our party got away from its principles. You elected Republicans to champion limited government, fiscal discipline, and personal responsibility. Instead, Republicans went along with earmarks and big government spending in Washington. Republicans lost your trust - and rightly so.
…
“A few weeks ago, the President warned that our nation is facing a crisis that he said ‘we may not be able to reverse.’ Our troubles are real, to be sure. But don’t let anyone tell you that we cannot recover - or that America’s best days are behind her.”
“As I grew up, my mom and dad taught me the values that attracted them to this country - and they instilled in me an immigrant’s wonder at the greatness of America. As a child, I remember going to the grocery store with my dad. Growing up in India, he had seen extreme poverty. And as we walked through the aisles, looking at the endless variety on the shelves, he would tell me: ‘Bobby, Americans can do anything.’ I still believe that to this day.
…
“Republicans are ready to work with the new President to provide those solutions. Here in my state of Louisiana, we don’t care what party you belong to if you have good ideas to make life better for our people. We need more of that attitude from both Democrats and Republicans in our nation’s capital. All of us want our economy to recover and our nation to prosper. So where we agree, Republicans must be the President’s strongest partners. And where we disagree, Republicans have a responsibility to be candid and offer better ideas for a path forward.
…
“The strength of America is not found in our government. It is found in the compassionate hearts and enterprising spirit of our citizens.
…
“To solve our current problems, Washington must lead. But the way to lead is not to raise taxes and put more money and power in hands of Washington politicians. The way to lead is by empowering you - the American people. Because we believe that Americans can do anything.
…
“Democratic leaders say their legislation will grow the economy. What it will do is grow the government, increase our taxes down the line, and saddle future generations with debt. 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? That is precisely what the Democrats in Congress just did. It’s irresponsible. And it’s no way to strengthen our economy, create jobs, or build a prosperous future for our children.
…
“In recent years, these distinctions in philosophy became less clear - because our party got away from its principles. You elected Republicans to champion limited government, fiscal discipline, and personal responsibility. Instead, Republicans went along with earmarks and big government spending in Washington. Republicans lost your trust - and rightly so.
…
“A few weeks ago, the President warned that our nation is facing a crisis that he said ‘we may not be able to reverse.’ Our troubles are real, to be sure. But don’t let anyone tell you that we cannot recover - or that America’s best days are behind her.”
"Contankerous Kentuckian" Bunning: Support Me Or I Will Sue You!
Senator Bunning speaks curiouser and curiouser every day. Today's twist, as reported by TheHill.com:
Sen. Jim Bunning (R-Ky.) said Tuesday that he would sue the National Republican Senatorial Committee (NRSC) if it recruited a primary challenger against him.
. . . .
Committee officials last week met with Kentucky Senate President David Williams, who is exploring a challenge to Bunning.
Bunning threatened to sue the committee if it supported Williams or any other challenger.
“I would have a suit against the NRSC if they did that,” he said, according to the Louisville Courier-Journal.
“Support of incumbents is the only reason for [the NRSC’s] existence,” Bunning added. “So if they recruited someone and supported them in a primary against me, I would be able to sue them because they’re not following their bylaws.”
Cornyn said Monday that the NRSC would support Bunning’s reelection bid, but that failed to appease the cantankerous Kentuckian.
“I don’t believe anything John Cornyn says. I’ve had miscommunications with John Cornyn from, I guess, the first week of this current session of the Senate,” Bunning stormed to the Courier-Journal. “He either doesn’t understand English or he doesn’t understand direct: ‘I’m going to run,’ which I said to him in the cloakroom of our chamber.”
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Sen. Jim Bunning (R-Ky.) said Tuesday that he would sue the National Republican Senatorial Committee (NRSC) if it recruited a primary challenger against him.
. . . .
Committee officials last week met with Kentucky Senate President David Williams, who is exploring a challenge to Bunning.
Bunning threatened to sue the committee if it supported Williams or any other challenger.
“I would have a suit against the NRSC if they did that,” he said, according to the Louisville Courier-Journal.
“Support of incumbents is the only reason for [the NRSC’s] existence,” Bunning added. “So if they recruited someone and supported them in a primary against me, I would be able to sue them because they’re not following their bylaws.”
Cornyn said Monday that the NRSC would support Bunning’s reelection bid, but that failed to appease the cantankerous Kentuckian.
“I don’t believe anything John Cornyn says. I’ve had miscommunications with John Cornyn from, I guess, the first week of this current session of the Senate,” Bunning stormed to the Courier-Journal. “He either doesn’t understand English or he doesn’t understand direct: ‘I’m going to run,’ which I said to him in the cloakroom of our chamber.”
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Taxpayer-Funded Democrat Propaganda From Steny Hoyer
Another example from today's emails of taxpayer-funded "leadership" from House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer:
From: Majority Leader Press <majority.leader.press@mail.house.gov>
Date: February 24, 2009 11:53:58 AM CST
To:
Subject: Getting Our Fiscal House in Order
February 24, 2009
Getting Our Fiscal House in Order
From: Majority Leader Press <majority.leader.press@mail.house.gov>
Date: February 24, 2009 11:53:58 AM CST
To:
Subject: Getting Our Fiscal House in Order
February 24, 2009
Getting Our Fiscal House in Order
President Obama’s Honest, Responsible Budget WillSet Nation on Path to Sustainable Fiscal Future
When President Obama took office just over a month ago, he inherited President Bush’s record deficits, debt and an economy in shambles. According to a recent Washington Post-ABC News poll, 59 percent of Americans are "very concerned” about the outrageous budget deficit accumulated over recent years. To address the concerns of all Americans and begin the long process of repairing the damage done, Congressional Democrats are working with President Obama to ensure that we continue to make the tough choices necessary to handle the challenges facing our nation and put us back on a fiscally sustainable path.
Read more on how Democrats plan to make the tough decisions necessary to set our country on a path to a sustainable fiscal future.
###
To unsubscribe, or modify your profile and subscription preferences, please click here.To subscribe to this publication, sign up here.
Visit majorityleader.house.gov for more press, floor and member resources(202) 225-3130
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Read more on how Democrats plan to make the tough decisions necessary to set our country on a path to a sustainable fiscal future.
###
To unsubscribe, or modify your profile and subscription preferences, please click here.To subscribe to this publication, sign up here.
Visit majorityleader.house.gov for more press, floor and member resources(202) 225-3130
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Taxpayers Pay For House Democrats' Partisan Spin
Here's a "non-political information piece" emailed today by the House Majority Leader, Democrat Steny Hoyer -- written and distributed with taxpayer money, of course:
From: Majority Leader Press <majority.leader.press@mail.house.gov>
Date: February 24, 2009 11:27:51 AM CST
To:
Subject: You Can’t Spell “Earmark” Without an “R”
February 24, 2009
You Can’t Spell “Earmark” Without an “R”
As the House begins debate on the FY09 Consolidated Appropriations Act this week, Republicans are continuing to try to sweep their history under the rug and convince the American people that they are committed to fiscal responsibility. But their record on earmarks, and the amount of earmarks contained in the omnibus appropriations bill make it clear that Republicans are just using this as another political ploy.
Read more about how Republicans have distorted their poor record on fiscal responsibility, while Democrats continue to make significant reforms.
###
To unsubscribe, or modify your profile and subscription preferences, please click here.To subscribe to this publication, sign up here.
Visit majorityleader.house.gov for more press, floor and member resources (202) 225-3130
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
From: Majority Leader Press <majority.leader.press@mail.house.gov>
Date: February 24, 2009 11:27:51 AM CST
To:
Subject: You Can’t Spell “Earmark” Without an “R”
February 24, 2009
You Can’t Spell “Earmark” Without an “R”
While Republicans Try to Remake Themselves as the Party of Fiscal
Discipline, Their History of Out-of-Control Spending Proves Otherwise
Discipline, Their History of Out-of-Control Spending Proves Otherwise
As the House begins debate on the FY09 Consolidated Appropriations Act this week, Republicans are continuing to try to sweep their history under the rug and convince the American people that they are committed to fiscal responsibility. But their record on earmarks, and the amount of earmarks contained in the omnibus appropriations bill make it clear that Republicans are just using this as another political ploy.
Read more about how Republicans have distorted their poor record on fiscal responsibility, while Democrats continue to make significant reforms.
###
To unsubscribe, or modify your profile and subscription preferences, please click here.To subscribe to this publication, sign up here.
Visit majorityleader.house.gov for more press, floor and member resources (202) 225-3130
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Dude, You Offended My Grandma
A group of 13-year old boys were playing with my son a few days ago when one boy's father came and spoke quietly to him. The boy burst into tears and left with his dad. My son later informed me that this child's grandmother had just been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.
That's the same disease that our Junior Senator Jim Bunning announced would kill Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg within nine months.
Bunning has now apologized "if" (if!) he offended Justice Ginsburg.
No word yet on whether he will apologize to the thousands of people battling pancreatic cancer, or their families and friends "if" they, too, were offended. Bunning, however, did something much worse than offend: he stole hope from those who need it the most.
Somebody, anybody needs to challenge Bunning in the primary if he persists on running for a third term. It would be an act of mercy not just to Kentucky and the Republican party but to Bunning himself. Bunning's premature announcement of Ginsburg's imminent demise comes just as he's gearing up; it's the warm-up of a campaign few can bear to watch. Somebody, please spare us from what he might say next.
That's the same disease that our Junior Senator Jim Bunning announced would kill Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg within nine months.
Bunning has now apologized "if" (if!) he offended Justice Ginsburg.
No word yet on whether he will apologize to the thousands of people battling pancreatic cancer, or their families and friends "if" they, too, were offended. Bunning, however, did something much worse than offend: he stole hope from those who need it the most.
Somebody, anybody needs to challenge Bunning in the primary if he persists on running for a third term. It would be an act of mercy not just to Kentucky and the Republican party but to Bunning himself. Bunning's premature announcement of Ginsburg's imminent demise comes just as he's gearing up; it's the warm-up of a campaign few can bear to watch. Somebody, please spare us from what he might say next.
Monday, February 23, 2009
Senator Bunning, Spellcheck Please!
RealClearPolitics.com provides this update to the story below regarding Senator Bunning's inconsiderate remark concerning Justice Ginsburg's cancer diagnosis:
Sen. Jim Bunning (R-Ky.) apologized today for a remark he made over the weekend regarding Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg's health.
. . . .
"I apologize if my comments offended Justice Ginsberg," Bunning stated today in a press release, which misspelled her name. "That certainly was not my intent. It is great to see her back at the Supreme Court today and I hope she recovers quickly. My thoughts and prayers are with her and her family."
Senator Bunning is breaking records with his wild pitches. Not since Governor Fletcher's plane buzzed the Capitol at President Reagan's funeral has a Kentucky politician made such an embarrassing impression in Washington, D.C.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Sen. Jim Bunning (R-Ky.) apologized today for a remark he made over the weekend regarding Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg's health.
. . . .
"I apologize if my comments offended Justice Ginsberg," Bunning stated today in a press release, which misspelled her name. "That certainly was not my intent. It is great to see her back at the Supreme Court today and I hope she recovers quickly. My thoughts and prayers are with her and her family."
Senator Bunning is breaking records with his wild pitches. Not since Governor Fletcher's plane buzzed the Capitol at President Reagan's funeral has a Kentucky politician made such an embarrassing impression in Washington, D.C.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
McConnell's and Bunning's Statements Provide A Study In Contrasts
Both of Kentucky's U.S. Senators made the RealClearPolitics.com Strategy Memo this morning:
*Sen. Mitch McConnell doesn't quite call on Roland Burris to resign. "I think the Ethics Committee can work," he told CNN. "I think in this particular instance, it ought to work quickly, and resolve these differences and make a recommendation to the full Senate."
. . . .
*Sen. Jim Bunning predicts that Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg will pass away this year while speaking to a local Republican dinner. "Even though she was operated on, usually nine months is the longest that anybody would live after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer," Bunning said, according to the Courier Journal.
The two snippets are good examples of the differences in style between McConnell and Bunning. Whereas McConnell deftly avoids comment on a matter not directly within his power to control, Bunning makes a gratuitous statement on a matter that really is better left unsaid.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
*Sen. Mitch McConnell doesn't quite call on Roland Burris to resign. "I think the Ethics Committee can work," he told CNN. "I think in this particular instance, it ought to work quickly, and resolve these differences and make a recommendation to the full Senate."
. . . .
*Sen. Jim Bunning predicts that Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg will pass away this year while speaking to a local Republican dinner. "Even though she was operated on, usually nine months is the longest that anybody would live after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer," Bunning said, according to the Courier Journal.
The two snippets are good examples of the differences in style between McConnell and Bunning. Whereas McConnell deftly avoids comment on a matter not directly within his power to control, Bunning makes a gratuitous statement on a matter that really is better left unsaid.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Friday, February 20, 2009
Kill The Writing Portfolio
Now that there's finally some serious discussion in Frankfort about refining CATS testing, it's time to get rid of the writing portfolio, at least as applied in elementary and middle school.
I've watched my three boys suffer through the writing portfolio required in fourth grade. It is a waste of time. It assesses nothing. It is extremely stressful for the teacher, which the students then internalize.
The writing portfolio is centered on the concept of "peer reviews." That's right, fourth graders edit the other fourth graders. This is known as the blind leading the blind. The teacher is not allowed to edit the student's work, and the portfolios stay at school. So there is little opportunity for the student to receive meaningful feedback from an adult on his writing.
It's all well and good to teach students to revise and reflect. However, spending an entire year revising and reflecting on three pieces of writing is lunacy. These are short stories and feature articles, not dissertations.
Students would be better off writing multiple pieces on a shorter turnaround throughout the the year. That would better approximate the skills they will need in the workforce. It also would reduce the stress on teachers and students if everything didn't hang on three pieces of writing. Students will learn to analyze, write and revise by repeating the exercise on a variety of topics -- not by prolonging the process to the point of torturing all involved.
Students perform better when they enjoy what they are learning and feel confident that their skills are improving. The writing portfolio makes the act of writing seem terrifying and overwhelming.
In addition, the designation of fourth grade as a portfolio year (while not assessing math in fourth grade) necessarily means that math gets little teaching time. That's the unintended consequence of the writing portfolio. The next year, fifth grade teachers are forced to play catch up to remind the students of math skills that have laid dormant during portfolio year. Students should be immersed in math and writing every year.
Students assume that their portfolios are sent off to the Wizard of Frankfort for evaluation. Not so. At the end of the year, the portfolio is scored by teachers within the same school, which certainly puts them in an awkward position. Moreover, after a year of "peer review" it's hard to know what the score really measures.
In contrast, the "on demand" portion of the CATS test (essentially an essay) assesses only what an individual student wrote unassisted. That's a meaningful gauge of a student's writing ability. It also provides ample incentive for teachers to devote the instructional time to the mechanics of good writing.
Those (few) teachers who like the portfolio should be allowed to continue teaching it, but it should not be mandated.
I've watched my three boys suffer through the writing portfolio required in fourth grade. It is a waste of time. It assesses nothing. It is extremely stressful for the teacher, which the students then internalize.
The writing portfolio is centered on the concept of "peer reviews." That's right, fourth graders edit the other fourth graders. This is known as the blind leading the blind. The teacher is not allowed to edit the student's work, and the portfolios stay at school. So there is little opportunity for the student to receive meaningful feedback from an adult on his writing.
It's all well and good to teach students to revise and reflect. However, spending an entire year revising and reflecting on three pieces of writing is lunacy. These are short stories and feature articles, not dissertations.
Students would be better off writing multiple pieces on a shorter turnaround throughout the the year. That would better approximate the skills they will need in the workforce. It also would reduce the stress on teachers and students if everything didn't hang on three pieces of writing. Students will learn to analyze, write and revise by repeating the exercise on a variety of topics -- not by prolonging the process to the point of torturing all involved.
Students perform better when they enjoy what they are learning and feel confident that their skills are improving. The writing portfolio makes the act of writing seem terrifying and overwhelming.
In addition, the designation of fourth grade as a portfolio year (while not assessing math in fourth grade) necessarily means that math gets little teaching time. That's the unintended consequence of the writing portfolio. The next year, fifth grade teachers are forced to play catch up to remind the students of math skills that have laid dormant during portfolio year. Students should be immersed in math and writing every year.
Students assume that their portfolios are sent off to the Wizard of Frankfort for evaluation. Not so. At the end of the year, the portfolio is scored by teachers within the same school, which certainly puts them in an awkward position. Moreover, after a year of "peer review" it's hard to know what the score really measures.
In contrast, the "on demand" portion of the CATS test (essentially an essay) assesses only what an individual student wrote unassisted. That's a meaningful gauge of a student's writing ability. It also provides ample incentive for teachers to devote the instructional time to the mechanics of good writing.
Those (few) teachers who like the portfolio should be allowed to continue teaching it, but it should not be mandated.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Deconstruct This
We knew the lefties are into deconstructionism, but check out Michael Shaw at the Huffington Post for its peculiar application to the picture above:Regarding the photo itself, it is interesting how it reveals a polarization with the two right-wingers, with [Senate Republican Leader Mitch] McConnell and [Chief Justice John] Roberts lined up and balancing off the left half of the photo while [President] Obama and the waiter carry the other half. I'm hesitant to put too much weight on the racial split (although there was a joke going around during and right after the election -- among blacks, mostly, as far as I could tell -- that the black candidate was being brought in to clean up the white man's mess). Where there is a definitive parallel between Obama and the waiter, however, is in the way Obama -- in physically and socially extending himself to the Minority Leader -- finds himself in the catering mode.
Obama catering to the right? If only it were so.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Senator Gregg Thinks Clearly Again
This just in from the Associated Press:
Republican Sen. Judd Gregg of New Hampshire abruptly withdrew his nomination as commerce secretary Thursday, citing "irresolvable conflicts" with President Barack Obama's handling of the economic stimulus and 2010 census.
"We are functioning from a different set of views on many critical items of policy," Gregg said in a statement released by his Senate office.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Republican Sen. Judd Gregg of New Hampshire abruptly withdrew his nomination as commerce secretary Thursday, citing "irresolvable conflicts" with President Barack Obama's handling of the economic stimulus and 2010 census.
"We are functioning from a different set of views on many critical items of policy," Gregg said in a statement released by his Senate office.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Pennies From Hodgenville
At today's Lincoln Bicentennial Celebration, Kentucky Governor Steve Beshear and Andy Brunhart, Deputy Director of the United States Mint, unveil the new design for the "tails" side of the Lincoln penny, which substitutes Abe's log cabin in Hodgenville for the Lincoln Memorial.Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Lincoln's Birthplace In Need Of A Railsplitter
Ice and winds have taken their toll on Lincoln's birthplace.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
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