The California Encyclicals -- CA, Act Three

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Dear Todd,

Thanks for sending me that email. I am taking your suggestions. Thanks for reading these posts (Prologue, Burbank 1 and 2, Los Angeles 1 and 2, California 1 and 2). There are still a few more things to help the Republicans win in California.

1) Force the California Congress of Republicans [CCR] to work with the California Republican Assembly [CRA] for 2008. Using the power of the California Republican Party, merge the two groups in time for the 2012 election.

2) Disband the California Lincoln Clubs. They have accepted money from Republicans and then turn around and back Democrats (2005 - Mayor Hahn). If they are not helping Republicans, the Lincoln Clubs shouldn't have that title. Also, because it is California, throughout each Assembly District Committees [ADC], there should be Lincoln-Reagan dinner fundraisers at all levels.

3) To all clubs, ADC's, party structures, Bring back patronage! Their is no one more loyal then someone you help along to their dream. Los Angeles has the movie industry, use that.

4) Fight on certain issues:
a) In Malibu, Rich Democrats block access to the beach to the General Public, where is the GOP to fight them?
b) The San Fernando Valley needs to see a return on its tax dollars from Downtown. Time and again, the Valley is ignored. If the GOP fights here for the Valley, it can change the whole direction of Los Angeles.
c) California has a movie star Governor, yet Movies continue to film out of state or country. If the GOP fights on this issue, it will gain a new constituency.

5) If Schwarzenegger wishes to run on the Republican ticket as a Senator, a deal must be made. The Governor must visit all the ADC's in Los Angeles and see what they need. Their support is incumbent on the Governor finding a sucessor they can back.

6) In 2005, I tried to put together an event using the Governor and President. The Federal officials were interested. The locals refused to move the Governor. Had it worked, the CRP would have made $26 Million. If you want to see the proposal, I need an email from someone who is with the Press, CAGOP, NRCC or RNC. By not supporting me, they lost $26 million.

Thanks for reading.

Joe'y'

The California Encyclicals -- CA, Act two

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Side note: I know there has been a lot of news this April. The Imus firing, Virginia Tech, the loss of the Royal Navy in Britain. After the Encyclicals are finished, I will write on each subject. First, let's cry for the end of Free Speech with Imus, Pray for the victims of Virginia Tech and discuss Her Majesties Navy later.
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Dear Todd,

As I discussed in the previous letters (Burbank 1 and 2; Los Angeles 1 and 2; California 1), about California, the Republican Party at all levels is in trouble. The Powers That Be that exist out here Cannot Win. This post can be retitled: California for Republican Presidential candidates 2008 and 2012. The last post discussed the problems in the State; Here is the solution.

1) Remember this equation: 37 Counties + San Diego + Los Angeles = California in Republican's hands.

2) The California Republican Party [CRP] and a newly formed (see earlier post) Los Angeles County Republican Party [LACRP] must fight in the San fernando Valley. Until there is a base to work from, Republicans should not worry about the Mayor or Board of Supervisors. However, Statewide, the Republicans must have a majority on the Board of Equalization [BOE].

3) Speaking of the BOE, Glen Forsch ran citywide in District 4 (Los Angeles). President Bush had 35% in 2004 -- Forsch had 27% in 2006. Which means the CRP, LACRP, the California College of Republicans [CCR] and the CRA could not field a candidate in the Los Angeles City limits. I only saw one billboard of Forsch's in Koreatown. One. No Television Ads, no mailings. rather then build on the 35% already established, Los Angeles Republicans have to work with 27%.

4) Bring Hugh Hewitt out of Orange County into the San Fernando Valley every election cycle until it is taken. He should interview every candidate for the Assembly District Committees [ADC's] and the LACRP until the State is in Republican hands. If the battle is not in the streets and freeways of the Valley, the Republicans are not fighting for victory.

I have another post of solutions. Remember the equation and keep reading!

Thanks,

Joe'y'

The California Encyclicals -- California

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Dear Todd,

Now we are in the last part of these Posts. Having dealt with the Burbank (One and Two), Los Angeles (One and Two), now we focus on the State.

The last major election that the California Republican party won was the Recall Election of 2003. Even though it was a "Special Election", the Republicans haven't won a normal election since 1994. In 2007, Governor Schwarzenegger has abandoned his role as Party Leader to work on the Democratic Party agenda. There has been no real Senate race since 1998. How did this happen?

The last time the Republicans had the majority in the Assembly was 1994-1995 and before that for a year and a half in 1970. The last full secure majority was from 1943 - 1958. What happened to cause the break of a secure majority to a slim (if any) majority? In 1958, the moderates broke from the California Republican Assembly (not to be confused with the California State Assembly Republican caucus), an umbrella organization for volunteers around the state (which has now become the de facto Conservative Organization)[CRA] to form the California Congress of Republicans (not to be confused with the California College Republicans), [CCR] a moderate group.

The Democrats have been able to exploit this break to win a majority since 1970. What is known about the CCR's is they do not play well with the CRA; they do not reach out to the under-40's; none of their members ever heard the word Patronage to help out their cause; members of the CCR will support a Democratic Candidate rather then a candidate who won with backing from the CRA; these are the Country Club Republicans of old.

Newt Gingrich won the majority in the House in 1994 by challenging the Country Club Republicans in the House before ascending to the Leadership. The CCR's expect much from the Assembly District Committee's [ADC] but never give volunteers, money or candidates in return to help the cause. Until the CCR's learn to work (and possible merge back) with the CRA, the Republicans will be in a permanent defensive crouch in California.

How did we lost the Governor? He put together a Special Election in 2005 to change the status quo in California. Between the weak showing of support by the Los Angeles County Republican party, and the lack of effort by the CCR's, it failed. Since it was "cooler" to be among the Democratic Majority in the State, he took the Republican Designation but left the Party high and dry in 2007. The Governor has no Republican Successor, there are no Senate candidates in the wings (and if the Governor runs against Senator Boxer, it will be as a Liberal Republican vs. a Liberal Democrat), and no one looking to rebuild the majority here. For any Republican Presidential candidate to win here, they need to read the next post.

Joe'y'

The California Encyclicals -- L.A., second stanza

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Dear Todd,

Thank you for your emails. I have taken your advice. I'm also glad you have read these posts (Burbank, one and two; Los Angeles, Part One)However, the reason I'm writing these posts is because I want the Republicans to win in California. Los Angeles is important because, with a majority of the counties, and two of the three cities, California falls into the Republican camp. So far, the Republicans have the counties, here's how to win the cities:

1) To win, there must be a base to work from. Santa Clarita and the San Gabriel's do not affect the rest of L.A., the San Fernando Valley does. The CRP is in Burbank, win there and expand outward through the Valley. Once a beachhead is established, go west to the ocean.

2) 1994 is what the Republican tide is measured by. I would suggest the Republican national Committee check to see if the LACRP expanded it's reach beyond the Mayor's race and increased it's majority. If there are no signs of expansion to be seen, these officers should be thrown out and the LACRP should be controlled by the RNC Political office and the White House Office of Political Affairs. Both groups give controls to the ADC's when the Republicans own the Valley and 55% of Central L.A. and 55% of the South Bay.

3) Patronage must be a factor of bringing in the under 40's. First, there is no outreach to the under 40's in Los Angeles. Not in the Assembly District Committees, not at the LACRP, no where. What reason do most people come to LA? The Industry. If the LACRP is not reaching the new arrivals with a passionate effort to find jobs in The Industry, what are we doing? Political winners happen because they remember their town's/Congressional Districts major industry. Both the ADC's and LACRP must build networks into The Industry. Then, bring people in. No one is more loyal then when you bring them closer to their dream. However, my dream is to work in Policy with a Republican Majority Congress. I only want to light the way.

4) Finally, move the LACRP office out of Commerce. It takes an hour (or more) during rush hour to arrive from Santa Clarita, Malibu, and Long Beach. Business is done Downtown and the CRP is in Burbank. To maintain visibility, the LACRP must move:
a) Downtown
b) San Fernando Valley or,
c) Hollywood
Without the move, no one cares what the LACRP does.

Thanks for reading this.

Joe'y'

The California Encyclicals -- Los Angeles

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Dear Todd,

I hope you are having a good Easter. However, now that we discussed Burbank (Parts One and Two), let's focus on another problem, Los Angeles.

Since the flood, the Democrats have run the City (as well as subsequent cities of Santa Monica, Malibu and Burbank) and the Los Angeles County Republican party [LACRP]have done nothing to stem the tide.

All cities have a City Council and Mayor (i.e. a smaller version of Congress and President); where I grew up in New York City, the Democrats on the City Council were balanced by a secure group of Republicans from Staten Island. Out here in Los Angeles, the San Fernando Valley is Conservative in nature, but there is no fight for the Republicans from Burbank to Woodland Hills.

Let's even go back to the last Mayor's election: James Hahn was vulnerable to because he lost his base (opposition to secession in the S.F. Valley and firing Bernard parks angered his constituents from South Central). Who did LACRP nominate in a potential pickup election? No one. They backed Hahn.

One year earlier, LACRP were given millions of dollars to help get President Bush's election numbers in Los Angeles to 40%. Within California, there are Assembly District Committees [ADC]. These are the touchstones whereby Republicans can decide election policy. The LACRP did not free any of the funds given from National to the local ADC's. The only ones who got funds were in the San Gabriel Valley and Santa Clarita where the Republicans have already won. President Bush won only 34% in Los Angeles, not 40% as targeted. Political parties are supposed to be skilled in conversion, not elitism.

Do you know where to find the LACRP? In Commerce. Rep. Drier represents the area. Fine. Great. However, it is a trip from Santa Clarita, Long Beach, or Malibu. How can business get done if everyone spends an hour (or more) driving to the LACRP? Business is done in Downtown or even the Valley, but Commerce? Hey, there is a casino to play in, but that is not why we get into politics.

Next post is how to win in Los Angeles.

Joe'y'

The California Encyclicals -- Burbank, Second verse

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Dear Todd,

I hope you read the the last two posts (prologue and Burbank). I also hope you are not dying of laughter by the actions of the current Speaker. First, the Democrat Congress ties General Petreaus' hands then goes on vacation? What next, an environmental Concert on the Hill?

Meanwhile, Burbank continues to work as if small business' don't make their home here, and residents don't live here. Five things that must be mentioned:

1) Parking for residents is not easy unless you have a home. My family had Passover at home and parking was tough for my sister and my friends. The Burbank Police, great department that they are, are handing out more parking tickets in residential areas. If you can't visit a friend in Burbank, why spend money here either?

2) Since my last post, Valet parking has sprung up around San Fernando Road. However, that is just like a Democratic run area -- what once was free now is taxed.

3) Another thing commonly found in Democrat run towns, two sets of rules. If you live above Glenoaks Boulevard, there is less hassle with rent, parking, and dealing with the courts. The one story every young Burbank resident tells me is how if your address is above Glenoaks, the traffic cops let you off with a warning, if you live in the flats below Victory Boulevard, the paperwork goes flying.

4) On the other side of the Burbank Mall (started before Glendale Galleria but is smaller and attracts less money then Glendale), there is an IKEA, Barnes and Noble, etc. However, two years ago, there was a Virgin records store in the complex. After the rain destroyed the roof, it took Burbank two years to find another business. Now Comp USA is leaving. And there are no Apple stores coming to sell iPods. Burbank scares business' away with the rising rent and the lack of attentiveness to it's own community. When that is solved, young people will want to move and shop here again.

5) The Burbank Leader, a newspaper about Burbank is published in Los Angeles, but written and edited in Glendale. If the Mayor of Burbank had any smarts, the Burbank leader should be published, written and edited in Burbank.


Next post, the Republicans and Los Angeles, why can't they make a good marriage?

Thanks again!

Later,

Joe'y'

The California Encyclicals -- Burbank

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Dear Todd,

I hope the un-democratic Democratic Congress is treating your office well. At least when the Republicans ran things, the Democrats were allowed to bring bills and Amendments to the floor. By the way, did you read the prologue? Good. Now let me explain why Burbank is going the way of Asbury Park.

Even though the city has a secure tax base from Burbank Airport, Warner Brothers Studio and NBC, the city neglects it's small business' and residents. Since January, I have noticed as rents and the price of homes began rising, more people are leaving. If you drive above Glenoaks Boulevard or across any street below Victory Boulevard, there are more "FOR RENT" or "FOR SALE" signs across town. There is always a price for extra security, and the Burbank Police are one of the better forces in Los Angeles, but the price is also taking away local residents who have lived here for years. Unfortunately, to make up for the dying residential tax base, I have seen more tickets being offered around town.

For a slew of small business' along San Fernando Road, they are losing revenue as the city continues to build. Last year, the city tore down the AMC 12 and it's parking structure and put up the AMC 16 and is putting up condominiums . The one thing the city forgot was parking spaces. Now, I have no qualms if a city wishes to make money (I am a Republican after all), but the Democratic majority City Council wishes to give their support to the big business' only (not unlike Microsoft only supporting Democratic candidates) to the detriment of small business and residents, that ain't kosher.

To top it off, this is the base of the California Republican Party. There is no outreach to Republicans under 40, there is no Republican representation at any level. But I'll tell you more in my next letter.

Joe'y'

The California Encyclicals -- Prologue

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Dear Todd,

Congratulations on your new baby! And further Congratulations on finding a job on Capitol Hill. But, as I told you in an earlier email, California is not a good place to be if you're a Republican. First look at this editorial by the Los Angeles Times.
The Times does not report on the Local GOP. Also, there is also many problems within my hometown of Burbank, the Republican party of Los Angeles and the California Republican Party. These next few posts will tell you why.

Joe'y'

The I, Claudian theory of Modern Presidents

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Tonight was the last episode of Rome on HBO. Great show, great cast, the show understood the real history. If you follow history, the next series to follow is I, Claudius (the book or the miniseries). During this time, I re-read Suetonius' The Twelve Caesars to back up my theory of modern Presidents as representatives of the Julio-Claudian's. Here is the theory:

The Augustus: Augustan Presidents deal with civil strife, internal threats and defer the limits of the office as Augustus limited the Empire. They are controversial in their time because they change the structure of Government in some way (i.e. Augustus had his Triumvirates, then Empire). Augustans limit outside attacks to maintain the Republic.

The Tiberians: Tiberian Presidents maintain the Republic from their successors, yet go to war with the Political class. Tiberius almost allowed a coup by his Chief of Staff, Sejanus and allowed himself to fall into a decadent atmosphere on his island villa on Capri. The general public loves a Tiberius, but the political class knows (or is harmed) by his sins.

The Caligula: Caligula seemed like a relief for the political class after Tiberias, they were wrong. Caligula cared about neither Empire or civility. Where Tiberius' sin was to take from the political class by force, Caligula by madness. The public is also destroyed by a Caligula's madness. There have been no Caligula Presidents since FDR.

The Claudians: Literary and literate. Claudius expanded the Empire to Britain and kept the finances flush. A Claudian President re-builds the Republic after internal troubles and expands into the literary sphere as well. The Political Class looks down upon them as "not being good enough," These are the theoreticians of Presidents. Woodrow Wilson was one.

The Nero: Neros enjoy the stage. If their way is not accomplished, then hell literary breaks loose. The Republic teeters from Nero Presidents.

Now from FDR, here is how I see the theory play out:

Truman -- Claudian

Eisenhower -- Augustan

Kennedy -- Tiberian

Johnson -- Claudian

Nixon -- Claudian

Ford -- Augustan

Carter -- Nero

Reagan -- Augustan

Bush I -- Augustan

Clinton -- Tiberian

Bush II -- Claudian

Please tell me how this theory works in your worldview.....

Endgames

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Two players have moved their pawns and knights around two separate boards, but they play on the 64 squares of Geopolitics.

When you play Chess, the goal of the game is to trap the King. Pieces move diagonally and horizontally; some are sacrificed, others play offense or defense. Between Speaker Pelosi and the Democrats on one board, and the Iranians on the other, the question becomes what is their Endgame?

The Iranians took Naval Personnel from the HMS Cornwell. They claimed that the ship was in disputed waters. Right now, the Iranians lost the Russians help with their Nuclear Reactor and they are not in good standing with the world community. How does threatening Israel, threatening the UK, not paying the Russians equal a foreign policy of a peaceful nation? Unlike China, they do not want to become an Economic power; Unlike North Korea, the Iranians do not want money (they have their oil funds). What do they want? The Iranians want to become the Primary Pan-Arabic nation since Nasser.

Meanwhile on the home front, Speaker Pelosi barely passed the Iraq Supplemental Bill. For the past three years, the Democrats have been against the Iraq war. Fine. But what is their plans? Most Democrats think that 9/11 is a conspiracy. For twenty years, Afghanistan was the base for the Al Queda. Israel was the Proving Ground. By bringing the fight to Iraq, that is the terrorists new Proving Ground. The democrats say "Leave Iraq," Will the terrorist organizations (NGO's all) stop attacking soft targets in Israel or the United States? What is the Democratic parties Endgame on the War on terror? And wouldn't they have problems with Iran?

Does anyone know how to play this game?

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According to The Politico, the Democrats in the House cannot get bills passed. In the House, Majority does rule. In the Senate, only one member needs to block a bill or nominee. The Gang of 14 was created in the Senate to move the Judicial Process along (which is an aftereffect of Bork).

Let's recap: The Democrats have 233 members in the House, the GOP has 201. It takes 218 votes in the House to pass any bill. In the Senate, there is exactly 49 seats even for both parties with 2 independents who caucus with the Democrats. Tim Johnson (D-SD) is in the hospital (I wish him well and to return soon), and the Vice President can cast a deciding vote. So, 48 Dems 49 Reps and 2 Ind (who vote D) and the V.P. (who votes R), in the Senate. To win a vote on a bill, 51 votes. To beat a Filibuster: 60 votes.

The Iraq Bill is being bogged down by logrolling and they couldn't get the votes to get the DC Vote passed. Simple majority needed and it couldn't get done under Pelosi's leadership. I predict that a regicide in the Democrats will happen if they can't get anything done. Will Hoyer take her place?

The Battle of the Branches, Round 231

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At SUNY-Stonybrook and American University, I wrote two 50 page thesis' on the Nixon Administration. The first was about the foreign policy challenges of the 1970's and how Nixon's handshake shook the world. The second one questioned whether the Executive Branch and Legislative Branch could work together to appoint Ambassadors while each branch was at war with one another. My thesis was posited that, yes, the country was more important then political points. Ambassadors were nominated from the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and passed on the floor of the Senate from 1972 - 1974.

Now we have the Congress going to war with the President over the firing of Judicial Branch officials. The Subpoenas are coming towards the President's staff; The president is standing his ground. This battle is not just about President Bush, but the power of the Executive.

During the Clinton years, the question was always, who can testify against a sitting President? The Democrats laid out their case saying that a functioning President needs both Staff and Secret Service to remain loyal. With these current subpoenas, Senator Levin is saying, "No one should be loyal to a sitting President,"

With Bork, the Senate damaged the ties during the Judicial appointment process. Overtime 2000 damaged the election process. President Bush is leaving in 2009. After 2008, might be a Democrat President and a Republican Congress to challenge him or her. Suppose James Carville or Paul Begala is put on the stand? What if it were Dick Tuck?

My question to you is this, would you push the limit on a Republican President that powers would be lost for a Democratic President? I think most Democrats are hypocrites on this issue, prove me wrong.

Four Question Redux

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I am not a fan of protests. When I was younger, I used to be among the crowds, but the people remained the same, and the smells of those self-same activists began to rise as well. My feeling is this, why protest when you can be in the room writing the language of the bill to be voted on?

Now that the protests are done, and since we are near Passover, I have another Four Questions to ask. (If you wish to answer the originals, please do so). My only rule here is, be a member of the Democratic Party and be civil, beyond that, please enlighten me:

1) If using the military is "bad", what is the purpose of the military in a modern Nation-state?

2) Why do protestors insist on defaming Federal prpoerty every time they are in Washington, DC?

3) In 1941, America was attacked by Japan, but our first military attack in World war II was in North Africa against the Germans who didn't attack us. Shouldn't FDR have been impeached for lying?

4) Since America is already in Iraq, what will be the fifty year consequence of pulling out of Iraq? Will Al-Queda, hamas, and Hezbollah leave the United States and Israel alone? Remember Iran and Syria in the equation.

Happy Birthday Valley of the Shadow!

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Rather then sing "Happy Birthday!" Let us sing "Spirit Journey Formation Anniversary!"

One year later, this is my original post. I stopped going to the Church, re-read The Great Game and, I now work with an Ad Agency that deals with the Movie Studios here in L.A. My goals and dreams can be seen from this Blog.

This Blog started from the Althouse Vortex (look up to your right and start your own Blog from here) and grew from a Blog about Eugene Delacroix and the Dead to Politics and Policy.

One day, I hope to achieve everything I shoot for.

If you want to help, send me an email.

Thank you for reading. There is more to come.

Who is the Institutionalist?

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There is something wafting in the political air that bothers me. It's outgrowth allows a comedian, Bill Maher, to say he wishes our Vice President dead, as well as the numerous commentators at the Huffington Post. No apologies or regrets from either.

When I read The Ambition and the Power by John M. Barry, what really struck me was a line about Former House Ways and Means Chairman Dan Rostonkowski. To paraphrase, he might have disagreed with Ronald Reagan but he still believed in the institution of the Presidency that Reagan carried with him.

At any given time, there is only:

1 President
1 Vice President
1 Majority Leader of the Senate
1 Speaker of the House
9 Supreme Court Justices

The United States Constitution created all of these jobs (Speaker and Majority Leader through the Article One branch itself), and even when someone I despise (Clinton, Pelosi, Reid, Ginsberg) inhabits these positions, I do not wish for their demise, only that they become frustrated pushing their views.

This door was opened for Bill Maher and the HuffPos back with the Impeachment of Nixon, "the Bloody 8Th," and Bush v. Gore lawsuit. What do all of these equal? The Temple of Democracy being brought down around our ears.

I consider myself an Institutionalist:(N) Someone who respects the institutions of Government and Social protocols.

The modern Democratic Party (1972- Present) wishes to tear down each instition in Government that is not owned by them Despise the President, I can debate you. Wish for his death and I will fight you. I detested Clinton, but I never wished for his demise. When I lived in DC pre-impeachment, the high levels of Republican staffers used to say, "Even if Clinton is Impeached, at least there is a President Gore." meaning simply: we distrust President Clinton, Gore will be fine if Clinton steps down. Because the Democrats attacked the GOP in the House and at the ballot box, the radicals in our party became mainstream.

My curse onto the Democrats out there: Despise President Bush ,but do not wish him or Cheney harm or the Democratic party will go the way of the Whigs.

Go tell the Spartans, Stranger passing by

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Living in Los Angeles, I can always manage to catch a movie before it is released. Thus, no commercials or previews before it starts. I caught 300 on Tuesday night. Even though there is no overt political messages here, I saw the foreshadow of history.

300 is based on Frank Miller's Graphic novel, which, in turn, is based on the Battle of Thermopylae. When you read the story of the 300 Spartans who fought against Xerxes' armies at the Hot Gates, you feel as if these men, who lived history, didn't feel the need to become history. Instead they became Legends.

[SPOILER ALERT -- HERE THERE BE DRAGONS]

Before the battle, Leonides went to the Oracle for advice about going to war with the Persians. Since the Oracle was paid in Persian gold, their advice was to wait. After Leonides goes with his 300 men, his wife, the Queen must convince the Spartan Council to send reinforcements. Theron, a legislator, carries power within the council and uses that against the Queen. After the first betrayal, he betrays her again on the Council floor. Being Spartan, she kills him with his sword and Persian Gold pieces fall out of his toga.
[END SPOILER ALERT]

Former Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld said, "You go to war with the army you have..." A Spartan statement, if there ever was. So, where is the modern Hot Gates against a growing Non-Governmental Organization that wishes to franchise?Like the Athenians, most of our European allies have no stomach to fight an enemy that fights in the dark. And our modern academicians try to be America's Delphi, but have already sold out their intellect to the Democratic Party. And the Democrats have also sold out to the Council on American relations [CAIR] as part of the Red-Green-Brown alliance.

Yet, most Democratic websites (and legislators) see President Bush as the enemy and not Islamofacism. The modern Democrats would rather sell our only Democratic ally, Israel, down the river to Iran, then to stand and support our friends. They would rather a Bill Maher hope for Vice President Cheney's death, (along with the HuffPos), then support the Long War.

The Democratic Party and it's allies in the media are today's Therons.

Our Hot Gate is Iraq. It is easy to stand for an issue when it is easy, which Democrat will stand with a Republican President now that it is hard?

Democrats, please explain.....

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In 1998, President William Clinton was cited for Perjury during Impeachment. The word of the day back then, was "Perjury is fine," This statement was supported by the Press and academia.

Now we have a charge of Perjury against Lewis Libby. If perjury is fine against a Grand Jury in President Clinton's case, why is it wrong now?

The Volitaire Deal

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At the 2007 Conservative Political Action Conference, Ann Coulter made remarks about former Senator John Edwards (D-NC) here. Every single Conservative or Republican Blogger is calling on her to apologize for her remarks.

However, when the Huffington Post has commenter's that wish the Vice president ill, I find it hard to decry Ann when she says provocative things. Now, I have friends who are gay, and I am at times Libertarian when it comes to State and private life. However, the comment was tacky and the joke flopped. But, she is not calling for any one's head, she is not wishing people dead.

I also believe in Voltaire's line, "I disagree with what you say, but will defend to the death your right to say it," I haven't seen one organization from the Left defend anyone from the Right for slipping up on words. Not once.

If you see Bill Maher here, he also wishes ill will on Cheney, yet where is the Left Blogosphere's outcry? Every week, Bill Maher wishes harm or worse on Republicans, yet the Left says not one word. Here is my deal (call it a Voltaire Deal), if the Left gets rid of Bill Maher, I will decry Ann Coulter.

POP #1 (Reboot)

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In the Valley, there are posts known as POP's or Policy or Politics. This is a Gumbo of different issues that occur during the day or week. Politics is not about getting electing (Politics), but about Governing (Policy). Eventually, I hope to work on the Governing side.

Here is the New POP:

1) Global Stock Market dip due to China - Policy - Back during the 1980's, the big worry was about Japan overtaking the American Economy. There were even books written about that fear. Then came the Asian Flu and Recession and Cyberpunk went the way of Woodstock. China is following Japan's lead. I await China's recession.

2) Leftist reaction to Vice President Cheney's survival - Politics -- What is wrong with these people? As an Institutionalist, I believe America needs to support the pillars of our Constitutional Republic. I might not have liked President Clinton's policy or person, or even Speaker Pelosi, but since they won their respective positions, I then wish them well but work on policies supporting my views. But this? The Outer Party of Democrats would rather tear down these Institutions when they don't have them, then be civil. It is time for the Grand Old Men of the Democratic party to bring back civility. God help us if something happens to this current administration, I will blame The Nation and American Prospect magazines.

3) Vice President Gore's Home of Carbon Emissions -- Politics -- The rule for rich democrats is: The rules apply for thee, not for me (i.e. see Kerry)

The State v. Conservatism

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I'm back! Here is a post regarding my view of Conservatism:

Being a Conservative....means you don't hang out with the "Cool" people in society. (Ask yourself this, how many Conservative movies get made in Hollywood?) Trust me, it is harder to be a Conservative in a Blue State(s), then to be a Liberal in a Red one. But, what sort of issues made me a Conservative? Truth be told, I have a Libertarian streak, but in the real world, Libertarians never get elected. Republicans get elected, not Conservatives or Libertarians. Here is why:

1) State as Mammon. The same State that can fund you, can also determine how you live (speak to any Welfare recipient). If you see the State as benevolent (i.e. WPA works during the Depression), you also depend on a Caesar. If you know your Emperors, there were good ones, such as Augustus, Claudius and Marcus Aurelius, but there were bad ones as well. To be dependent on the State put the individual at the mercy of an Augustus or a Caligula.

2) The Individual v. the Mass. In every pre-1977 Sci-fi Universe (and that includes Star Trek), the mass of men are decided by the rule of a few. Conservatism fights for the right of the individual to say "No!" Don't believe me? The rule of law in a Socialist Society (where the far left of the Spectrum ends up), is based on the mass' rights over the individual. I remember pictures of Soviets waiting in line for Toilet paper. If the State deems Toilet Paper is not essential, then the individual loses.

3) The Nanny State. I don't smoke. I even cough when someone smokes. Sometimes I ask my friends to put out their cigs, sometimes I ask for one. But when the State comes in and orders you....well, the best description is the Government brings a Gun to the table when everyone else brings cards. In NYC, the nominally GOP Mayor Bloomberg signed a law stopping Transfats. OK, but what if Avacados are discovered to be bad for your health, then what? The State is based on whims of people (other then you) who control your life. Conservatism believes in Man's fallability, Liberalism expects perfection from birth.

These are my main beliefs. There are differences with the Social Conservatives, but I can fit easier into a room with Christian Conservatives who disagree with me then with Liberals who believe I should be sent to a Gulag for voting for Bush.

Running towards daylight

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In about 2 weeks, I should have a desktop at home to work with. I am also waiting for my laptop to arrive from the cold Michigan winter. As Phil Collins sang, "Out of the Darkness and into the night," However, I want to discuss a few issues here:

1) The return of the Doha Round? Free trade faltered on the shores of Agricultural subsidies. What issue do you think will bring the parties back? I personally see the Core Group of Countries (as described by Thomas PM Barnett) as a Free Trade zone where products pass through with less paperwork and more profit.

2) Pelosi's Plane. Doesn't this create Global warming? But then, how does Global warming explain snow in Malibu?

3) Also, I am looking for a substitute Blogger for when I am lacking a computer. The job pays only in publishing but I am looking for someone right-of-center to fill in occaisionally. Please email me if interested.

A Black Cat in a Dark Room

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My computer is still down. There is a decision regarding rebuilding a Dell from 2000 or get a new one. Also, I am waiting on a Laptop from a friend. When I resume, there will be more posts.

The Dark side of the Moon

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The Computer is in the shop again. The reason I installed the Fundraiser to the post was for two reasons:

1) Help with the Computer problems and make it easier to post.
2) If I can raise the amount above, The Valley can go to a Military charity and raise money for them double of what is asked here (If you do the math, I hope to raise $16,000 for the charity). This here is the dry run. Nothing happens without causation, so please contribute.

Other news:

I am working on a couple of posts (the computer returns Wed.) on: The Juli0-Claudian theory on Modern Presidents, Why the Road to Darfur goes through Baghdad, and some paintings, art and movies to review.

Thanks again for reading. I will post again when the Computer returns.

While Pelosi and Reid Fiddles.....

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While the Democrats play at being a Majority Party, the real world moves forward and the adults in the Executive Branch must deal with problems, such as Iran's war Games. According to the Democrats owner, the Daily Kos, it is fine for Iran to attack Israel.

I await to hear what the Democrat party foreign policy is regarding threats to our allies. Instead, I hear crickets chirping.

The laws of Gravity and Hillary Clinton

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Obama has announced his exploratory Committee, and like clockwork, Hillary Clinton (or if your a liberal -- St. Hillary) announced this very weekend. As a Conservative Republican, this is good news. Why? Because I think she will bring up all the resentments of the '90s (Why is searching through FBI files OK if you're a Democrat?) and I have a lot of friends down south who do not like her.

My Uncle, who is a Liberal Democrat and Doctor (ear, nose and throat) who lives in Upstate New York does not vote for her. Now, my Uncle who spent a good deal of time trying to convert me back to being a Democrat, is no fair weather Democrat. He is old-school when the Democrats were from the FDR-Truman school.

Here are his reasons for not voting for Hillary:

1) During her Health care Reform issue, she depended on lawyers not doctors to determine the basis of her Health Plan. Not one Doctor or Doctor representative was called in to help with the Plan. (All this is detailed in the book, The System)

2) During her Senate campaign, she hugged Suha Arafat. Here is the picture. How many Jews did Yasir Arafat kill during his lifetime? How many innocents died under his orders? Then, the Nobel Committee gives him a prize for acting like a peacemaker? Why should St. Hillary take a picture with a wife of a murderer?

3) She stands for nothing, which means she'll fall for anything. However, that, for me, is the definition of the modern Democrat Party.

More speech, not limited speech

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Shall we play a game? Let's say you run a Liberal Blog (as I said, a game) and because you want to promote the Democrats' views, you don't want to write Republican views. Or if you podcast, the same problem.

Now let's introduce Rep. Kucinich's (D-OH) speech this weekend in Tennessee where he wanted to use the power of the Government to bring back the "Fairness Doctrine." Now, do you want the power of the State to determine what you write and what you say?

I've heard on Hannity and Limbaugh that the Fairness Doctrine will tamper their programs. If the Democrats were secure in their monopoly of Hollywood, the Academy, the Broadcast Nets, all of the Cable News (excluding Fox), most news magazines, Public Radio and Television, this would not be an issue. This is a Free Speech issue.

Volitaire said, “I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it.”

One of my Blogger friends is a Liberal Democrat. We post on our differences and our sameness on the issues. Far be it from me to tell him what to post in his Blog, so why should the State? How many Democrat Bloggers (and Pod casters) will stand up for their Republican brethren? I'm betting that there will few, if any to support. Prove me wrong.

Democrats are Neimoidians

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This is why I am a Star Wars (Original Trilogy) and Firefly/Serenity fan. Rep. Wu (D-WA) tried to analogize about the Vulcans and the Klingons. The difference between Bush's Vulcans and Roddenberry's is seeing the power of their military and how they harnessed it. In Star Trek, they retreated from the use of force after being a bloodthirsty race. Bush's Vulcans saw what America would be if our Foreign policy was at ebb tide, otherwise known as the Iranian Hostage Crisis, OPEC gas hikes, losing Afghanistan and giving up the Panama Canal. Which President made that happen?

We are in a fight against a Non-Governmental Organization [NGO] (picture Amnesty International with guns and suicide bombers) that plans on opening more franchises domestically, yet the Democrats can only argue about fictional sci-fi alien races. Someone give me a lightsaber.

Three Pillars and a Long Game

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One of my favorite shows, Doctor Who, had an episode called "The Long Game" (guest starring Simon Pegg of Shawn of the Dead). That episode was part of a season regarding the manipulation of a future Earth [The Fourth Great and Bountiful Empire] for a larger plan by a darker enemy. Thanks to Thomas Barnett (writer of the Pentagon's New Map), Bush's plan of Iraq is part of a Long Game as well. But we face a Stateless enemy (or an NGO) who is willing to wait 800 years to get their old territory back. According to the German magazine, Der Spiegal, there are seven phases the terrorists are working on. Read this:

"The First Phase known as "the awakening" -- this has already been carried out and was supposed to have lasted from 2000 to 2003, or more preciselyfrom the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 in New York and Washington tothe fall of Baghdad in 2003. The aim of the attacks of 9/11 was to provoke theUS into declaring war on the Islamic world and thereby "awakening" Muslims. "The first phase was judged by the strategists and masterminds behind al-Qaida as very successful," writes [journalist Fouad] Hussein. "The battle field was opened up and the Americans and their allies became a closer and easier target." The terrorist network is also reported as being satisfied that its message can now be heard"everywhere."

"The Second Phase. "Opening Eyes" is, according to Hussein's definition,the period we are now in and should last until 2006. Hussein says the terrorists hope to make the western conspiracy aware of the "Islamic community." Hussein believes this is a phase in which al-Qaida wants an organization to develop intoa movement. The network is banking on recruiting young men during this period.Iraq should become the center for all global operations, with an "army" set up there and bases established in other Arabic states.

"The Third Phase. This is described as "Arising and Standing Up" and should last from 2007 to 2010. "There will be a focus on Syria," prophesies Hussein, based on what his sources told him. The fighting cadres are supposedly already prepared and some are in Iraq. Attacks on Turkey and -- even more explosive -- in Israel are predicted. Al-Qaida's masterminds hope that attacks on Israel will help the terrorist group become a recognized organization. The author also believes that countries neighboring Iraq, such as Jordan, are also in danger.

"The Fourth Phase Between 2010 and 2013, Hussein writes that al-Qaida will aim to bring about the collapse of the hated Arabic governments. The estimate is that "the creeping loss of the regimes' power will lead to a steady growth in strength within al-Qaida." At the same time attacks will be carried out against oil suppliers and the US economy will be targeted using cyberterrorism.

"The Fifth Phase This will be the point at which an Islamic state, or caliphate, can be declared. The plan is that by this time, between 2013 and 2016, Western influence in the Islamic world will be so reduced and Israel weakened so much, that resistance will not be feared. Al-Qaida hopes thatby then the Islamic state will be able to bring about a new world order.

"The Sixth Phase Hussein believes that from 2016 onwards there will a period of "total confrontation." As soon as the caliphate has been declared the "Islamic army" it will instigate the "fight between the believers and the non-believers" which has so often been predicted by Osama bin Laden.

"The Seventh Phase This final stage is described as "definitive victory." Hussein writes that in the terrorists' eyes, because the rest of the world will be so beaten down by the "one-and-a-half billion Muslims," the caliphate will undoubtedly succeed. This phase should be completed by 2020,although the war shouldn't last longer than two years."

I discuss this in an earlier post. According to the 9/11 commission report, this has been going on since the end of World War II. Back to Barnett, he writes of the strategy of "The Big bang" Once upon the time (as described in the book, The Prize), American Middle East post-WWII policy depended on three pillars: Iran (under the Shah), Saudi Arabia, and Israel. After Carter lost Iran, America had two pillars and Iran was able to move its pieces around the Middle East

By going into Iraq, we are building a second Democracy in the region. During Gulf War I, the Democrat critics harped on America's lack of support of Democracy across the region. 12 years later, autocrats are out and democracy is being tried and the critics (the same critics as before) want to deal with autocrats. Barnett, the Democrat, sees the hope in building up Iraq. Why can't Speaker Pelosi and Senator Reid? Can some Democrat tell me what their stance is in this Long Game of Pillars?

On the Beach with the Pemanently Indigent

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According to Article II, section 8 of the United States Constitution:

"The Congress shall have the power to... declare War, grant Letters of
Marque and Reprisal, and make Rules concerning Captures on Land and
Water; To raise and support Armies, but no Appropriation of
Money to that Use shall be for a longer Term than two Years; To provide and
maintain a Navy; To make Rules for the Government and Regulation of the land
and naval Forces;To provide for calling forth the Militia to execute the Laws
ofthe Union, suppress Insurrections and repel Invasions; To provide for
organizing, arming, and disciplining, the Militia, and for governing such Partof
them as may be employed in the Service of the United States, reserving to the
States respectively, the Appointment of the Officers, and the Authority
oftraining the Militia according to the discipline prescribed by Congress,"

So can someone please explain what Speaker Pelosi and Majority Leader Reid are doing making Executive Branch decisions in this letter? If I remember my Civics 101 correctly, the President makes choices on troop levels and disbursements. Congress is made up of 535 individuals, two parties and personal politics (i.e. Pelosi-Harmen fight), how can they tell the Joint Chiefs on how to conduct their affairs? If I remember my 1990's correctly , Newt was told by the network news and President Clinton's office: the Speaker is not the President.

The letter was generated because the Democrats had to satisfy their base; Otherwise known by P.J. O'Roarke as the Permanently Indigent. Led by Cindy Sheehan, she disrupted Rahm Emanuel's press conference. Then, the combined forces of the Democrats Inner Party had to act. Thus, the letter.

Once upon a time, when we were fighting a State entity (USSR and it's allies), Senator Vandenberg declared, "Politics stops at the waters edge," In Foreign Policy magazine in 1996, here is an article dealing with post-WWII Foreign Policy bipartisanship. Until 2000, both parties fought against enemies of the United States and it's allies. Now that we are fighting an enemy who is an Non-Governmental Organization [NGO], and where is the Democrat's Vandenburg?

In Memory of Stephen Fein (9/2/47- 1/3/03)

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This is going to be one of my last personal posts before the Political Theater opens tomorrow. Just note that during this past Thanksgiving-Birthday-Christmas-etc. season, a Conservative Republican can be nice and even-handed to the Democrats. If you know of any Democrat Blogger who returned the favor, please email me and I will compliment them as well. However, the guns fire tomorrow.
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My father died four years ago today. He wasn't perfect but he was great to me. Whereas I am skilled in the art of Government and writing, he was a salesman and entrepreneur. If he had an idea for a business, it would be up and running in a fortnight. Not every business succeeded, but he took a hell of a lot of shots.

My Dad was a radio listener. He used to listen to the New York Rangers on the radio (when we were living in NYC). He turned me onto Don Imus and Tom Leykis. Two iconoclasts with different views of the world, but that was my Dad. He was the type of guy who could get away with fart jokes at a Steak House among business partners. He was always a prankster and always had a smile on his face.

Two business' that he worked on before he died was Online Gaming and Credit Card Consulting. He died before the Poker Trend hit. Working out with the different banks, had he lived, he would have made pennies on every transaction made online. With Credit Cards, he was also making a percentage a transaction as well. When he died, all that money went away like smoke (hence the fundraiser).

Four years gone, I still miss him. Godspeed, Dad, godspeed.

New Year's Resolutions

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My Dad used to say not a lot of news or business happens between Thanksgiving and the second week in January. Well, in the past week, we lost James Brown, President Ford and Saddam Hussain was hanged. I will not go over already seeded ground regarding the well-deserved Hussain execution. Later on maybe, but not now.

Instead, here are some Resolutions for 2007.

1. Work out so I can run in the Marine Corps 10K Marathon in 5 Years.
2. Get onto my career path to write policy.
3. Raise all the funds in the Valley of the Shadow fundraiser.
4. Write a book to be published before my 40th birthday.
5. Travel.
6. Stay as loyal to my friends as they are to me.
7. Be there for my family.
8. Get a post linked by Instapundit. And by the way, post more.

100th Post

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"Great, kid! Don't get cocky!"

-- Han Solo to Luke Skywalker on the fight from the Death Star to Yavin

"...because only if you have been in the deepest valley can you ever know how magnificent it is to be on the highest mountain."

--- President Nixon Farewell Speech to the White House Staff, August 9, 1974

Highlights from the Valley

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In TV shows, there is something called a "clip show" or highlights. Sometimes this is known as "Jumping the Shark." But this is dry land and there are no sharks to jump. Here are some of my favorite posts from the Valley......

10. Reviewing V for Vendetta -- Early postings do not mean coherent postings.

9. Self-Portrait of Delacroix -- A picture of my favorite painter.

8. A computer Prayer -- Use it and miracles appear!

7. Clinton's CIA v. Bush's Administration -- And no one noticed!

6. Another good Delacroix painting.

5. An American National Secrets Act? -- A good theory, but no answers.

4. When Darkness at Noon arrives, it will fly under a Democrat banner.

3. Hevesi in New York State and how it affects me. Also how a congressional seat in Florida affects me as well. (tie)

2. Wilsonian Idealism v. Nixonian Realism. -- More on this on a later post.

1. My post on why George Soros is a Democrat. -- Not for the reasons you think.

Enjoy the posts. Write a comment. Send me an email. There is more to come.

President Ford, R.I.P.

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President Ford was the only un-elected Vice President and the only un-elected 38th President of the United States. He died tonight. Ford's tenure lasted 865 days but it laid the groundwork to modern day America. He was the only other President I met. I met him at the Capitol Hill Club in DC in 1995. Ford was a gentleman.

The 1970's were a period of time when the American Foreign policy and American Dream seemed to ebb. President Ford came after the Democrats in Congress received the scalps of Nixon and Agnew. If Ford was not appointed by Congress, would the Democrats offer a Democrat for the Presidency? It is only due to the maturity of Speaker Carl Albert that this question need never be asked.

Ford's staff included Donald Rumsfeld and Richard Cheney. One was a former House member, and one was a future House member. Ford's presidency can be seen today in the War on Terror.

President Ford was provincial when it came to the House of Representatives. Ford brought calm during the whirlpools of the 70's. Godspeed President Ford.

Merry Christmas!

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Even though I'm Jewish, this is the closest thing to the meaning of Christmas. Sometimes the original beats the updated version.

Two men enter, One man leave.

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This is not Thunderdome. This is New York State politics.

Last month, two men won their respective offices: State Comptroller Alan Hevesi won re-election and Eliot Spitzer won the Governorship. Now the charge against Hevasi is using Government vehicles for personal use. However, if you know New York City and State Politics, this is tiddly winks compared to what has been done before. Remember Gangs of New York? Tammany Hall is not a movie creation; Its roots lie deep throughout the state and New York City.

Hevasi used the Government vehicles to transport his sick wife. Under Liberalism, isn't this a good thing? Let's walk down Baker Street (or in NYC, Bleeker Street) for a moment.

Who had the power to investigate a State Officer? The State Attorney General.
Who was the last State Attorney General? Eliot Spitzer.
Why? Hevasi has worked a lot of years in the Queens and New York City and State Democratic Circles. Before I became a Republican, this was my training ground. In politics, people collect and use "chits" or favors to be used later. Hevasi racked up a lot of chits by playing it straight within the party. In four years, who would be Spitzer's challenger? Hevasi.
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Two side notes: I haven't posted recently because of birthday, then being under the weather, and now Oscar season but now I'm back. And also, why would a Conservative Republican defend a Liberal Democrat in New York State?

Once upon a time I grew up in a town called Forest Hills in New York City. Hevasi's chief of staff lived there. I knew (and still know today) his daughter. She called to wish me a Happy Birthday. I know something as a Pragmatist, that an idealist always forgets, the Personal is never political.

Birthday Post

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First, read this post by my friend Rebbecca. Then, here is what happened today in history. I share the same birthday as Ludvig Van Beethoven and Philip K. Dick. Also today was the beginning of The Battle of the Bulge and the Boston Tea Party. Here are some birthday wishes:

1. Raise the funds for the Annual fundraiser.
2. Vern Buchanan gets seated in the 110th Congress.
3. Eventually, to end up working in a policy job in Washington, DC.
4. Be able to afford a new Car (Toyota Corolla LE)
5. See Jimmy Buffett, Moby and Seal in a concert.
6. Visit Israel again (last time was for my Bar Mitzvah in 1983).
7. Live (and work) under a Republican Majority again (House, Senate and White House).
8. To stop hearing from Democrats, "If we don't win, you cheated," And from Democrats, that they accept the Two party system. Sometimes the bear eats you.
9. The Palestinians accepting the two-state solution and stop sending Homicide bombers and missiles into Israel.
10. Eventually, to work for a Presidential Campaign in New Hampshire.
11. See the Washington Redskins win a Super Bowl. Also, to watch live, the New York Yankees win the World Series.
12. Take a vacation in the Caribbean and get licenced to Scuba Dive.

Standing on the shoulder of giants

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I have engaged in two posts on the Althouse site regarding Republicans and Liberals on the internet. A question came up, does JSF hate Left wingers? If I was asked, I would have said "No." But having been a former Liberal Democrat for New York City, I can despise what the Party and it's members have become.

Try engaging a Democrat (or Liberal) about the War in Iraq. They do not see how engaging Saddam Hussain and making Iraq a proving ground for terrorists (who have stated explicitly that they would attack the US again) makes us here a little bit more safe. As a Jew who was Bar Mitzvahed in Israel, I see the negative posts (and comments) about Israel on the Huffington Post and Daily Kos. My eyes have seen what I already knew.

And domestically? How do you engage in a conversation with someone who says, "If we don't win, you cheated." Because that is all the Democrats have been saying for the past six years. They won and they are still angry. Even during Impeachment, the Republicans in Washington still respected the institution of the Presidency. I can't find one Democrat online (or in real life) who would be civil to the President. I shook President Clinton's hand even though I was opposed to his policies. I was civil. Am I asking too much for the Democrats and their minions to act like adults?

The Democratic Nations Association

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Read this post first. Now, here is a 21st century solution:

The Democratic Nations Association -- The only members of this international club will be members that have Democratic elections on a continuous basis, a free-market (or mixed market) economy and stable transfer of power. Also, a nation-state must have a record of not attacking it's neighbors within 50 years or attacking its citizens in any civil war within 10 years. Their economies must have a central banking system and a stock market. If a nation meets these requirements, then they should be admitted.If you have any more ideas on the DNA, please comment. But the United Nations must vacate Turtle Bay because it has achieved nothing, it must go.

If you have any more ideas on the DNA, please comment. But the United Nations must vacate Turtle Bay because it has achieved nothing, it must go.

Turtles Bay's Home for Autocratic Countries

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"You have sat too long for any good you have been doing lately… Depart, I say; and let us have done with you. In the name of God, go!" -- Oliver Cromwell to the Rump Parliament, 1653

So, Kofi Annan gave his final speech chastising the United States? I would be so bold to spend his ammunition at the United Nations. It's time has past, it's members live in the past (1950's - 1980), America must move past it. The United States is a Haven for countries with autocrats at it's head (i.e. Cuba, Venezuela, Sudan, etc). If the UN is capable of creating goodwill, why did it pass "Zionism is Racism?" And a majority of it's members continuously vote against the weakest member (Israel) and its sponsor member (the US)? How does this bring about World Peace? By continuing to believe the United Nations is capable of solving any problems, Leftists and Liberals believe in a dream that has died long ago.

Let us focus on what should be next. Let us put the UN next to the League of Nations as another failed experiment. Here should be the next one....

See next post.

Palm trees for "The Bloody 8th"

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If you know your Congressional History, there are moments of Grand Debates of Constitutional Issues and then moments when the Congress has knife-fights in the gutter. The 110th Congress is going down into the gutter. Here's why:

In the 99th Congress, there was a election in the Indiana Eighth district won by Rick McIntire over Frank McClosky by 72 votes. The House (run by Tip O'Neill) did not recognize McIntire and seated McClosky. After that, the Republican members walked out and Newt Gingrich rose. Radical among moderates, the Democrats actions toward the Minority party caused the frictions that occured during the "Republican Dozen" years.

Now:

After three recounts where Vern Buchanan won by 373 votes, Speaker-to-be Pelosi is already threatening not to seat Rep. Buchanan. Echoes of the 99th Congress. If Pelosi does not seat Buchanan, the Republicans should walk out. Not only should they walk out, but Rep. Buchanan should be considered part of their caucus and vote on the floor. The Republicans should fight this battle every day in the Well and in the Committee rooms. Every Democrat member they meet on the subway, in the Longworth cafeteria, the Rayburn Gym or the Cannon Press room. Republicans should not let this be a repeat of the 99th Congress.

But I have faith that Speaker Pelosi will not be so partisan and reach out to the Minority party. She will seat Rep. Buchanan and the Florida Democrats will act like adults and prepare for 2008. I couldn't stop laughing trying to write that. If gentlemenly Tip O'Neill could not reach out, how can we expect better of Speaker Pelosi. But I do have faith.

An aside:

I actually have dealings with this seat. Back during the 104th Congress, I interned for Dan Miller (R-FL-13) . Also, Buchanan's chief of staff is one of my mentors. These are good people, and they deserve to be there.

December 7, 1941

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Remember.

Thunderclap

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The computer has been down and then came back up today, hence the fundraiser. But what a week it has been. The storm clouds are darkening, can you hear the thunder yet?

First, John Bolton leaves his post in Turtle Bay. Next, former Democratic President Jimmy Carter deigns that Jews are unfit to live in Israel, but Arafat's people are. The Iraq Study Group proposes surrender and hari-kari. And, finally, a delegation of Democratic politicians met with Hamas to decide the fate of Israel and Iraq,

These are foreshadowing of darker times ahead. Negotiating with Hamas, Hezbollah and Al Queda (in Iraq), where does that lead? They are not military armies content to get Real Estate. They wish to recreate Umayyads empire extending from Europe to Asia. And extend their Sharia laws to America and the United Kingdom.

The War in Iraq forced these disparate, but very determined groups to play defense. America leaves, they take the oil funds, 9/11 will be a minor blip compared to what will happen. And yet, the Democrats, have no qualms about sacrificing Israel or America to people who will either convert or kill.

A challenge to my Democrat readers. Again, prove me wrong. How many Minyans are in Mecca? How many Priests or Baptisms are in Indonesia? Will your fight for the Palestinians help stop the terrorists? I await an answer.

Cui Bono?

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According to The Economist, the dollar is falling I read the article at lunch today and tried to put some pieces together. As the Latin saying goes, Cui Bono? , Who benefits? Let's walk down this path together....

Who is the biggest financial speculator on the planet? Someone who has gone into other economies and shorted their currencies?

The American economic system has many checks and balances. We have a central banking system [The Federal Reserve System] that has been determined for the last 20 years by either a Republican President (Bush pere, Bush fils) or a Republican Congress. Soros has been involved in financial speculation of different currencies since 1992, starting with the United Kingdom, and moving onto the Asian flu.

Now following this theory, most Wall Streeters talk of getting "Whales" of investors. For men of Soros' stature, they are looking for "Whale" economies. The United States is the biggest in the world (China is moving up). Start with influencing the Federal Reserve, and the appointment process of its Governors. If the GOP will not support Soros in his work, who will help?

Backing the Democrats in 2004 with 527 organizations, he fought President Bush on ideological grounds. But why? If America was truly a World Police State, there would be military troops in Putin's office, and around American cities. Soros used the specter of 9/11 to help break into the American financial markets. He attacks Bush through proxies, not because of his opposition to Bush's foreign policy, but his economic policies.

If Democrats win the Congress again in 2008, along with the Presidency, with Soros footing the bill, how soon before the Financial Speculators attack the American economy in 2010?