THE IMPOSSIBLE, IMPROBABLE ELECTION OF DONALD TRUMP---AND IT'S AFTERMATH

The election of Donald Trump was a shock of epic proportions to everyone, and to some, a reason to hope again in their country's future. One cannot even define or separate wholly who fell into which
camp precisely, because the lines were blurred.  This election defied the polls.  But for the most part, the Democrats were the losers, and the Republicans the surprised winners. Donald Trump had done what no one thought do-able--he won in an electoral landslide. Never mind the popular vote, that isn't the way it's done in this country, and for good reason----it's called fair representation, and it's been working for quite some time.  It prevents large blocks of the demographic population from having too much power and influence over smaller, just as important, regions. Otherwise, we would have the coastal areas pretty much in control of the entire country.

So, done and done, right?  Wrong. The Democrat party, having become largely the party of the new left,  were completely undone by Trump's election. How could they have gotten it so wrong? They were so sure, had first dismissed "The Donald" as a clown, ridiculed, belittled, and even welcomed him to the race, an easy push over,  as a bully might mockingly welcome the new kid on the block When he wouldn't go away, they got more serious, and began actually trying to destroy even his very business empire, his livelihood.  They cheated along the way, by giving advance debate questions to Hillary, and approving moderators who were of obvious political leanings---not the right. We could go into detail here, but think back---the debates were mostly an attempt to reveal Trump as unfit and undeserving to do the job as commander in chief. The questions asked of him were much tougher, confrontational, and disrespectful than of those given Hillary Clinton.

 But it all seemed to backfire. The people saw this man unmercifully vetted, and began to judge for themselves. He was tested over and over again. Yet he never faltered, kept moving forward with his
message of hope for a greater America.  It wasn't pretty, got dirty and nasty.  This man was a street
fighter, and if you hit him, he struck back harder.  Everyone was stunned, but the opposition was outraged. How dare he retaliate? Not good form, no class, no fair! His supporters were afraid he might lose, on political correctness alone,  but he kept winning, against all odds. Maybe he had some of what it takes to run a country--- endurance, courage, smarts, vision.  It was a tough call.  And it was a cliff hanger.  All bets were on Hillary Clinton, heiress to the Democrat's throne.  Her flaws were many, but she was considered the lesser of two evils. She had several selling points on her side---experience., for one.  Even better, she had Obama, and his approval ratings were through the roof.  And the big closer--she was the first woman to run for president.  Slam dunk. Not so fast.

On January 20, 2017, Donald J. Trump became the 45th president of the United States. He had already made impressive cabinet choices, and it was clear he was ready to report for work.  The
Democrat party had become unglued, and did their best to color him illegally elected.  They
railed, rallied, threatened the electors , held demonstrations, blamed the Russians, and some even refused to attend the Inauguration.  But it didn't matter---the show went on.  It had been a study of democracy in action---messy, brutal,  frightening, but in the end a, smooth, regal, and dramatic transition . And if you were watching, you saw more than ceremony and pageantry---you saw a nation turn a corner.  And waiting around the bend was---quite a new sheriff. There was
joy for some, and sorrow for others---and there was relief and disbelief all at the same time from everybody. Even the Trump supporters knew that something most unusual had happened.

President Trump did not mince words in his acceptance speech. Nor did he try to curry favor with his predecessors or any of the Washington elite. This was not a Kumbaya moment for him, but a time to declare his direction. .His words were not those of a great orator, neither were
they particularly partisan. They were the plain words of a man who intends to get things done in a
different way.  He laid out his plans. The tone was firm, but not unfriendly or mean, just direct and purposeful.

Whether Donald Trump can overcome his enemies remains to be seen, for they are many, and they are committed.  He does not have the support of the media, or half of the country.  His own party
leaders supported him late and reluctantly.  But the man who should not have dared to become
President, has done so with the only support that ultimately mattered---the people who believed him when he said he could make the country great again. They deserve a chance, and so does Donald Trump.  

So, the question is this---was this unlikely president, and this improbable, unpredictable event, ----not just about Donald Trump, but more powerfully,  a mass movement which cannot be stopped?  Or will it go down in history as a failed attempt to achieve the lofty goal of greatness, the right of which was duly won----foiled by none other than our own people? People who think they know better than the electorate? A word of warning---that would not end well. For fate has a way of getting its way.


   

A RIVETING PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION, AMERICAN STYLE----

It is an amazing election year.  If you haven't been paying attention, you are missing one of the

most exciting events in recent U.S. electoral history- our presidential election.  We are now down to 5 candidates,  two on the left, a former Secretary of State, who happens to be a woman, and a former governor and admitted socialist ;  and 3 on the right including a very conservative Senator,  an also ran, who refuses to give up; and an outrageous, bombastic outsider, but highly successful businessman. None of them are particularly well liked by a huge majority of the country, , but one of them will become our next president in November, come hell or high water.  Both events  may  happen in a symbolic way. It is a grueling process to run for the highest office in the land, and not for the weak of heart---but must it be so vicious? Apparently so. We have descended into a political circus without nets, or boundaries.  This is an election to remember, one that will test the patience of both the candidates and the American people .  

We do not appoint our presidents, we present, then debate, fact check,  and debate some more.  Then we hold the candidates up for intense scrutiny, mockery, and ridicule. We whittle their numbers down by holding primaries and taking copious polls, hopefully assessing the mood and choices of the voters. This is done in the name of democracy, yet this year we are witnessing a grass roots uprising on the Republican side, which seems to be saying: 'Don't presume anything yet. We are not happy with the way things have been going, and we intend to make that known , even breaking rules of etiquette, conduct, and conventionality. But it seems nobody is listening---entrenched power in Washington is a powerful thing, and when things don't go the way those in power like, forget democracy.  We know best, they seem to be saying. One brokered convention coming up---what's that?  A power play, plain and simple.

Using a dubious rule, created to keep power in the hands of Republican party establishment, they are now talking about barring Donald Trump from becoming the nominee, even though at this point in time, he is the obvious,  albeit highly controversial choice of the Republican electorate.  No matter, they don't like him, and something has to be done---it's called dirty pool in some books, but completely legal in others. Whether you like Donald Trump or not, one has to wonder why we even bothered to put him and us through the last many months of numbing debates, polls, and primaries. A waste of time and money, and a fool's errand---hello, and not so fast,  Mr. Trump.

On the Dem's side, we have a very tarnished Hillary Clinton, who is under investigation for illegal use of her email server, while serving as Secretary of State, possibly jeopardizing the security of the United States,  or so say her detractors. She is  peddling hard to convince people that she is the fittest in the land to rule the land.  But her reputation is sullied by such adjectives as "liar" and "untrustworthy".  No matter, the Democrat political machine has decided she is the one, no matter what---unlike the Republicans, they stand by their own, and unite behind even one accused of serious wrong doing. Remember Benghazi?  And then there is the issue of her and Bill Clinton's Family
Foundation accepting large amounts of money from questionable sources while she was serving as
Secretary of State, otherwise known as conflict of interest.  The point is---she is not without sin,
and nobody is. We work with what we've got.


Now,  there are still Bernie Sanders, the Socialist, and Ted Cruz, the Senator maverick.  Yes, the same one who shut the government down over Obamacare, with his audacious Senate filibuster  ---  before Trump came along,  and  showed him how to do audacity better.  But both have not earned enough decision making delegates to  mathematically win at this point.  And what of John Kasich, the also ran?  He is merely a spoiler---like him, if you must, but he's in it to foil it, not win it---and who wants a sore loser?  He may even deserve it on merit, alone, but what he's selling isn't wrapped the right way---this time around, some folks are not interested in wrapping.  They want the goods, and they want it bad. 

What are the goods? Keep reading---but know this:  It has little to do with oratory skills, hair, or the
right way of saying things.

But how about logic?  There is none---we are a mixed bag of opinions and perceptions---it's all how one looks at it. Let's look hard--  Hillary is probably not any more tarnished, dishonest, or untrustworthy than anyone else in high places, and Donald not as mean, outrageous, or incapable as the media and others would have us believe.  She is diplomatically experienced and speaks the language of Liberals---she "fights" to improve the well being of "all Americans". Donald, on the other hand, tells it like he sees it, a refreshing drink for those fed up with political correctness and ideological stubborness.  He also may very well possess what many feel we need the most---a strong hand in these threatened times,  and a CEO's brain to heal our stuttering economy.  He promises to make America great again. She promises to make it whole again. What do those slogans really mean?  Perhaps the same thing, but Donald approaches it from a non-political background, not so intent on party or ideology---he  sees things as deals, compromises, and getting things done to maximize America's strength. Those who take advantage of us make us weaker.  Hillary, the seasoned politician  and fervent Democrat, sees the government and her party as the only way to
make things better---and makes no bones about it. "Strength" follows "whole", and the Republicans are the immediate enemy.

What we basically need and want is a smart/wise leader---one that will keep us safe, free, and an economy that will allow us to prosper---in that order, given the  tumultuous  times. Yes, there is the long game to consider:  A diverse culture that is changing how we operate as a country , a world view of global interaction and responsible tolerance, but not at the expense of our national defense,  and a philosophy of governance that will be fair, yet not lose the wheels which carry the entire system. But first things first---we cannot help those who depend upon us, if we are weak and insecure.

So, who will it be?  Unless she is indicted, which is doubtful, given the present political situation, Mrs. Clinton will be the Democrat's slightly shady, and first woman nominee, and unless the Republican base manages to wrestle the nomination from Trump, he will be their unlikely, unconventional, and slightly questionable nominee. And then, we the people, will get to decide from there--do not be so proud, as to not vote, from principle, personal bias, or disgust of the system---that's not the way it works.  This is the way we do it here---it's messy, dirty, and ugly at times. But it's also who we are--- Americans,  without secrecy or apology.  We figure it out----eventually.
  

   

"A Setback in Paris"---and Understanding the Mind of Obama--

If ever there was a reason to doubt the President's word that terrorism is on the run,

the Paris attack was a brutal wake up call, but Mr. Obama, never one to concede power or admit defeat,  called it a "setback". There is something to be said for downplaying terrorism, but this scourge of our times, is not going away---it is metastasizing , gaining power, and coming our way. We watched in horror as once again,  a major city was struck, not by an army, but a  handful of eight men, armed with guns ,bombs, and suicide vests , willing to die for their cause---the destruction of Western civilization.  Sounds like a David and Goliath fairy tale , but to  deny that, is to miss-calculate their mission, their numerous, devastating  deeds , and their relentless march.

 Events tumbled out of Paris like a tsunami of terror, wave after wave.  One hundred and twenty nine people killed randomly, and many more injured or maimed.  Suddenly the world seemed dark and dangerous---when and how would this all end?  There were many who said it's just the beginning, and  the start of World War 111. Hyperbole or reality? Stunningly,  the President once again made mellow statements of sympathy for the victims, but was  not willing to call the perpetrators by their religious name.  It makes little sense to simply call them extreme radicals.  Extreme--- based on what?  A Jihad--- for what reason? Terrorism---simply for terror's sake?   No, ask any terrorist, and he'll tell you--his religion, as he sees it, gives him complete reason to fight, justification to kill, and an honor and duty to die.  This kind of no home base enemy cannot be fought by the same rules of engagement---they are 30,000 strong, well financed, scattered all over the globe,  don't care if they die fighting,  and will keep coming until either we stop them cold---or they may well  achieve their goal of world domination.

That's the deal---incredible as it may seem, and so the question agonizingly remains:  How will we respond?  With talk of coalitions, containment, and a long, road of slow, steady reaction? Or will it be boots on the ground, bombs in the air, collateral damage, and the total wipeout of this enemy? Dare we, as some suggest,  take the high road of compassion and invite them to sit with us and discuss their grievances?   Show them by example that our way is better and more sustainable? Unfortunately,  nice talk isn't their style, and there is no "better" in the minds of these Jihadists---only their way.  The  real choices seem---either suffer the terrible price of a winning, no holds barred war, or hope that terrorism burns itself out, by its sheer evil.  Perhaps, but to gamble on the latter, is to risk the eventual takeover of the middle east, and beyond. They call it a caliphate---we call it a dangerous
religious monarchy, with brutal practices against women and children, and no love for America.



Add to this cauldron of events,  the President's plan to accept 10,000 Syrian refugees into the United States.  Given that there is no originating  data base from which to vet or check backgrounds on these people, the risk imposed to the country is no small matter.  But once again, Obama rages against those who try to stop him,  hurling insults and mockery at his detractors,--- and plunges forward, not even willing to consider a pause and congressional legislation that would curb and slow the process of assimilation, so that we might feel a little protected from enemy infiltration.


Fully understanding the mind and core values of Obama has never been an easy task, and the current crisis has made even some of his ardent supporters scratch their heads in bewilderment.  To ascribe  his attitude in foreign affairs to an ideology of American non-exceptionalism is one way to make sense of it. Another rationale for his laid back style, is  that his world views are so deeply ingrained, that he is unable to come to grips with the failure of leading from behind, and that the evolvement of ISIL from "JV" has been hard to swallow, completely messing with his previous dialogue of the defeat of terrorism. and grossly interrupting his ultimate plans of transforming this country,  All of the above may be true, but it has also been suggested that this president is simply out of his depth, even delusional, incapable of great decision, or is is too arrogant to admit that he needs help.  He refuses to change course, even as we face one of the most perilous points in our history, and his policies so far have failed. He prefers to focus and lecture us on the dangers of Islamaphobia, as though we don't have the sophistication to intellectually separate those who wish us harm, from those who do not. It is insulting and condescending for him to presume and offer only that  diatribe as a response to our sincere and well founded fears. And it is absolutely incomprehensible for a president of the United States to turn a deaf ear to our concerns for our safety. That is constitutionally his first priority, his ultimate compass---and he seems woefully in direct dis-obeyance, out of touch, and devoid of appropriate dialogue , ---save global warning, the denigrating of all Republican presidential candidates, and the protection of the Muslim people from his imagined backlash.  Listen up, Mr. President, we get it--A. Global warming is an important issue,  and we are dealing with it, B. It is not nice or presidential to bad mouth the other side all the time, and C. Islamaphobia is dead wrong, not who we are, and most of us know it---but there's a war going on, and you need to do something about it. Talk to us, reassure us of your course of action, name the enemy for what it is, Radical Islamic Terrorists---and go get them. That's who we are---
.
The very controversial Donald Trump said, "Either we have a country, or we don't", in advocating the
 tightening of our loose borders.  Mr. Trump may not have the total package to win the presidency, but those words ring true--- either we have a country worth fighting for, or we don't.  Either we take the threats seriously to take us down, or we don't.  Because what happened in Paris will  look and feel no different here.  But how many strikes can the world take, before the walls of order and security  come tumbling down , and we are left with loss of lives, confidence, a possible ruined economy, massive change of lifestyle,--- and an enemy laughing at our presumption of their ineffectiveness and our unwillingness to fight back hard. Paris wasn't a "setback", Mr. Obama---it was a giant step forward, and headed west.
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As this blog is going to print, two Russian fighter planes have been shot down over Turkey, complicating our coalition efforts.  Americans have been advised to be especially vigilant with their travels abroad. But  Obama has just issued a statement to steady our nerves, saying there is no credible intelligence threat to the United States at this time. Thank you for that,  Mr. President---very sweet thought---but are you sure?

In the meantime, just in case, and as a first line of defense,  the United States department of Homeland Security has advised, "If you see something, say something"---how paranoid sounding,  and how very sad that we have come to this---yet hope floats, as we celebrate one of our most meaningful holidays of freedom and gratitude,  hard fought and won by sheer determination and courage.  God bless the USA---especially those who defend her.

The Republican Debate Smackdown and the Search for a President---

If you missed it, you missed politics at its best and worst---the last Republican presidential debate, hosted, or should we say, toasted by CNBC, a totally Liberal cable station, ---showed the viewers what unabashed,  biased and partisan journalism looks  like, and it wasn't pretty. Touted as being a debate about the economy,  it was anything but, and dripped with pure, unadulterated contempt from the first question "What is your greatest weakness?"  Undauntingly, the questions got worse and more insulting as the debate wore on.   Until finally, Ted Cruz, stopped the panel's
take -down frenzy , by repeating verbatim their bullying remarks, and  roundly chastising them,. He drew a line in the sand for future debates, and one by one, many of the other candidates stood up to fight together against what has been so obvious for so long---the Liberal media's one sided unfairness toward the Republican party, particularly transparent in the last few debates.  More like a lion's den vs. the gladiators, than an honest search for the nominee's qualifications and opinions,  and even the audience was booing their disapproval.  What a disservice to the American people, but what a long over due reveal of how far we've drifted from objective reportage by a media who claims to be the third rail of Democracy. They have become a joke,  and  a serious betrayal  to a country who depends on them to help us make our most important decision.

So, now what---who's left on the roster of would be, wanna be Republican presidents? We still have  Donald Trump, Dr. Ben Carson, Marco Rubio, Carly Fiorina, Jeb Bush, and Ted Cruz among others who are not making a big enough splash to mention.  But let's get real---anyone of the above have great presence, good credentials, and agree or not, their intellectual depth would outshine any one of the Democrat candidates, save Mrs. Clinton, who came loaded for bear in the one and only Democrat debate.  But while she may have wowed 'em,  it wasn't that hard to do, when one considers her party's competitors, who were dull, uninteresting, and without any hint of presidential qualification---except, admitted socialist, Bernie Sanders.  Sanders may be refreshing, quaint,  and even a fave among some progressives, but he doesn't have the weight to bring home a nomination.  We may be flirting with socialism in this country, even courting it, but we're not ready to tie the knot just yet.  Bernie's not the one, not this time.  Some even think he may have been put up to the job of running by the powers that be,  just to make the the Democrats' race for presidential nominee look more like a---race, and just a touch more--democratic. After all, they wouldn't want their party to think they have no choice but to vote for Hillary---that it's her turn,---her's because she's a her?  No, because power and money speak like God  in the world of politics, and especially in the world of Clinton-esque influence.  Despite the very disturbing mis-handling of the Benghazi attack, and the unscrupulous, law breaking email arrangement while she was Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton,  has managed to rise above it all,  shrugging and laughing it all off,  and will undoubtedly be the Democrat's nominee.  Incredible, but true.


By all that is logical, it is time for the pendulum to swing back to at least to the middle of the political spectrum.  This country, by all accounts is in huge trouble. Our economy is limping through the slowest  recession recovery since World War 11. Unemployment may be  down, but not when compared with the number of people who have given up, and dropped out of the  work force--- (16 million increase in 10 years).  Poverty is up--- (Six million more people since Obama took office).  and so is the number of food stamp recipients---(Up 70% ).  We are not exactly winning the war on terrorism,  but a man by the name of Putin, is showing us how in Syria, and telling us to get out of his way.  Obama's reserved approach to Syria,  Iraq, and Afghanistan have not proven to work, as we witness the unraveling of the Middle East and large swaths of it taken over by ISIS. By nearly every measure, we are not better off than when Obama took office.  Yes, he inherited a mess, but has done little to make it better, using his power instead, to take advantage of our weakened state to instigate bigger government, increasing our national debt to over 18 million; stifling regulations, rail roading through a half baked national healthcare act,  making a devil's nuclear deal with Iran,  and enacting crippling energy laws and taxes. Many laws were passed without congressional approval, and certainly without the peoples' consent or consideration. We have witnessed a near despotic takeover of our government , and it is time to take it back.

And so, the race that will determine our future continues.  If you missed last week's debate, you
have another chance tonight,  Nov. 10th ,when another Republican debate will take place
on the Fox business channel.  The Republican nominees will have to prove their worthiness amid
back lash accusations of whining and desiring only soft ball treatment.  President Obama, in his inimitable, partisan style, has mocked them for not being able to handle the inappropriate questions of the last debate. They handled it pretty good, Mr. President----by finally refusing to take scorn disguised as a public service. Perhaps you should take a  lesson from them---sometimes you gotta fight back, draw lines that mean something, and stand up---not down.

At present, Donald Trump and Dr. Ben Carson are the Republican front runners,   ---it's still too early to call. but the growing popularity of these two non-politicians is reason enough to believe that there is something large going on in the back roads of much of America 's mindset,  which cannot be denied ---they are done with superficiality, and will not be duped by subjective reporting, witch hunts, or fooled by those who promise much, but deliver little.  They are turning the pollsters upside down, lauding those politicians who speak frankly,  and sticking it to the media-----as if to say, stop with  the slanting, and the spinning---we will no longer buy it. Whether the voters will vote for the refreshing, but risky outliers or in the end throw their hopes to  a more traditional, experienced candidate is the big question. But isn't it time for this country to call out those who would muddy the clear water of facts, with their own prejudices, ideologies, and agendas?  Good on you, Ted Cruz---it was about time.

Tune in to these debates, folks!  It can get ugly, boring, and tedious, but it's our
democracy at work.  This is how we choose our next leader----and as close as we can get
to  interviewing him or her.  It's our job---so be there! You may be watching another
smackdown,  or the ascending of your next president, ---or Hillary's last laugh.  She does that so well.

President Trump??

Donald Trump. businessman extrordinaire, has blown the doors off the Republican presidential race---yes, he of the dorky hair do, reality TV show, and blustering attitude is running away with the highest poll numbers, and continues to draw the largest crowds against much more polished and experienced  politicians.  The man is on fire and burns with the zeal of an evangelist new to the pulpit, but  bold and brassy enough to command attention   ---"I will make America great again!"  Seriously? Are you kidding me?  He is not politically pedigreed, not a popular guy to like, and his hair!!

The  man lacks humility, has no professional political background, and does not come across as presidential material---he's scrappy, direct, and sticks his finger in the eye of political correctness.  Yet, he and his message are resonating big time---to the chagrin and frustration of a mocking media, his fellow candidates, and even the Republican party.  But, thank God for variety, lest we all die of
boredom from a crushingly long election season.  If nothing else, the Donald is adding spice to a process that can self destruct from bland, canned,  cookie

cutter speeches, and cloying attempts to woo the folks, with the sweet talk of change, without alienating their money backers, which often equals no change once they are in office. Trump is financing his own campaign, owes no allegiance to anyone, which gives him a refreshing flair--and the hope that he might actually mean it.   It's game on---and too early to predict any winner yet, but right now, Donald Trump,  a "flash in the pan" a "passing phenomena", is proving them all wrong.  But will he last?  Does he have the right stuff?  And could he possibly be the next president of the United States? Hard to believe, isn't it? Harder still for a an
opposing party hell bent on dismissing and destroying him right out of the gate---it is amusing to watch their confusion now---is this guy for real?  Is he a clown or an actual threat?  Should we encourage the former in order to ensure a Democratic win, or keep trying to take down the latter?

Trump, in the meantime, keeps bringing it---but in the first debate, he didn't do all that well, rudely insulting the host, Megyn Kelly , who had surprised him with her own rather rude questioning  regarding his attitude toward women in the past. Huh? Well, that's her journalistic right, but it
smacked of  attention getting on her part.  I'm a great fan of Megyn Kelly, and wouldn't have wanted her to  play soft ball with any of the candidates, but that seemed inappropriate and below the belt for a first question. What we really want to know from Mr. Trump is how deep his knowledge and wisdom run, and whether he could actually manage a country---we want substance, not just brash, trash talk.  Does his success as a brilliant business entrepreneur translate to nimble, wise, and
smart decisions as the CEO of America, and our next military commander and chief? That's a big cross over, and we're not sure political and business acumen are the same---that's what we need to
determine, and that's what Donald Trump needs to prove in the long run.  He is beginning to attempt
to do just that, coming out with more detailed and interesting ideas on immigration and planned parenthood funding. He never fails to shock and awe,  with his brand of mixing it up with  common
sense and outrageous, offensive statements.  "We will build a wall, and the Mexicans will pay for it!"  The guy has some kind of kahones, to put it Trump crassly,  or confidence borne of solid experience in the business world---but  c'mon.  It would almost be worth it to see him try---but too important to simply take him at his word.

The sophisticated money is still betting against Trump---try doing the opposite at your next social event , and watch your popularity index sink.  But his appeal is interesting and intriguing to observe, and those who dismiss it, do so at their own intellectual deficit, and perhaps shallow mis-calculation of a man who offers hope to a people desperate for it. Because win or lose,  the Donald speaks to a great hunger and heretofore suppressed outrage within a very large group of people, who feel the country is on the verge of total collapse.  He has given voice to them, and they are roaring their encouragement.

Mr. Trump's in your face approach is energizing, even to the other Republican candidates,  and a satisfying slap in the face of political correctness---but what's interesting about this man is that he seems to lead with his head, not idealistic emotions. He is more pragmatic, than idealogue. At one time a Democrat, he voted for Obama, but now sees the country in disarray,  and has done an about face.  He sees the good in planned parenthood, but not the funding of abortions. He is rich beyond measure, but seems not without compassion for others. He professes belief in God, but does not carry the banner of the Christian right.  Call him a flip flopper, offensive, rude, bombastic, and undignified---but don't call him stupid or a clown.  He is smart,  real,  tough, ---and he is connecting some, incredibly, how.   He certainly doesn't need the money, and his motivation seems genuine---he says he feels the call to save the country from financial and military ruin, two important,  national lynch pins, and that he can do it.  Will he prevail , or will the brutal election process  reveal him to be completely unfit for the job?

All men and women who would be president are human--and not without their imperfections---but one thing is clear if you are of the conservative bent ---we need help, and we need it fast.  Are we at the point of needing someone completely against type---not so much a carefully edited, well coiffed diplomat, but a daring, 'let's get this thing done', kind of leader? Do we we want it so bad that we are
willing to take a chance on a man without smooth, or schmooze, but an uncanny, savior like appeal? Have we seen this movie before?  Yes, but this time this man speaks a different language---"I will make America great again!" Like a cold glass of water in a desert of terrible thirst,----he offers relief, beyond belief.


 But not so fast---Republicans have a way of eating their own before the election is even served up---they do not march lock step in abeyance to the party's dictates.  They are an unruly, independent crowd, perhaps to their own destruction, ---but their leaders don't like interlopers, or those they think may disrupt their power base. Trump has said he will stay with the party---if he is treated fairly.  Let's all do that, because to do otherwise is to indulge in a kind of societal snobbishness---let the people decide, not the media, the old guard Republican establishment, the big money, or threats of a party split. Allow the man  to show us what he's got, for better or worse--but do not silence him for his bad hair, his ego, his brashness,  or his less than politically correct demeanor---this is America.  We thrive on originality, diversity, and guts---consider all the candidates, study their credentials, vote wisely, but for now---watch and consider Donald Trump's rise--- or fall.

WHAT'S THE BIG DEAL? "JUST POLITICS---- "

A nuclear bomb is a very big deal---nobody in their right mind wants to use it, but seems everybody wants one.  It's the ultimate weapon, and in the wrong hands, could spell total disaster, if not crippling and brutal destruction. Iran is the latest country of concern, and in an effort to thwart their efforts, or at least slow down their progress, Obama is attempting to negotiate a deal---one that will not only affect his presidency and his legacy----but us in a very personal way.  And now the hot, burning question:  If it 's such a big deal,  then why did Obama once again go solo, and not
seek congressional approval?  Because he can.  This president does not play well with others, has decided that congress is an unnecessary obstacle,----he has a pen and a phone, and executive privilege.  Is this okay?

 There were 47 Republican Senators who  thought not.  Furious and horrified at the thought of a nuclear agreement being struck without more information as to sanctions, investigative permission on their uranium production, and without their input, they wrote a letter to the Ayatollah Khomeni in protest, and warned that any deal could be struck down once their guys resume power, it was, well---highly irregular, and a power move which incensed Obama. How dare they challenge his mighty will? Because they can.  And because they felt they had no choice but to stage an intervention. Their job, after all, is to curb excessive power, and to exercise the will of the people.  They had been blocked and locked out---no choice but to use the only power they had remaining---a pen. Touche.  Whether the letter could be perceived as a desperate attempt to stop the president from making nice with a country who harbors and spawns terrorists, has no love for us, or whether it was an act of insubordination and/or treason is sill up for debate, but one thing is certain---it served to slow down the negotiating process,.

But here's the kicker---to date, Obama has now taken the deal to Congress, and lo and behold---they bent his way, pending the right for further study. Oh, thank you so much. The Republicans have once again proved that they are pussy cats, not the rabid dogs, as portrayed in the media---push comes to shove, they cave, every time. And the big deal becomes not so big after all. Bombs away---this deal will no doubt close, and we will move ever closer to nuclear hand
holding with the Iranians. Kumbaya---

And then we have the other big deal that is Hillary's to bear---and our minds to boggle--- how can she continue to run for president?---because she can!  And because nobody on the Dem side seem to really care about her many transgressions,  the latest of which is her stunning illegal use of classified emails, and the Benghazi tragedy on her watch---it's simply the way she rolls.  After all, she looks perfectly acceptable, even harmlessly matronly, and at the same time, stately, capable and ambitious---how could she possibly do anything unethical or illegal?  And besides, she's a woman and married to ex-President Bill Clinton, who still holds unbelievable sway over his party and the world in general, despite his uh, quirky ways in the Oval room---and other suspicious activities involving women. No big deal---just Bill being Bill.  He's so likable, right?

Well, yes, there is this one other pesky issue that has come to light lately---the now infamous Clinton Foundation, which purportedly was set up to help poverty stricken countries, like Haiti, has recently been discovered to have been accepting boat loads of money from sources considered not friendly allies to the United States---and keeping lots of it for personal gain. Not a big deal? Only if it results in favors returned which could be called bribery or conflicts of interest. Seems one of those deals resulted in Russia now owning 30% of our uranium supplies---and Hillary, Secretary of State signed off on it---and even if she hadn't, the impropriety she has visited upon herself is dangerously stupid
or devious.  As deals go, this one's big. National security is huge. That's why those who serve in high offices are asked to sign an oath not to engage in conflicts of interest. Hillary signed---talk is cheap.  Lying is easy, and getting away with it is a crime.  President Hillary?  Don't bet against it--power and money can get you there---and the fast train is called "income redistribution", or "I'm fighting for the middle class", or "You didn't build that", and let's not forget relaxed immigration legislation, which results in increased Democrat voters, but sounds so magnanimous.  Will the Republicans have something better to offer?  Only if they can convince the electorate that money doesn't grow on on trees---and that the way forward is a right turn. That's a tough sell---this country has changed, and we are no longer your father's America.  Memo to Republican presidential candidates---lose the heavy hammer on social issues, and instead, hit it big on national security, illegal immigration,  questionable foreign trade deals, still high unemployment,  and the weak economy---that's where it's at for most of us.  Leave sex, marriage, and abortion out of it this time---the people will decide on their own, with or without the politicians.

Getting closer to home, we had anti-police riots in the streets of Baltimore---the issue at first glance seemed cut and dried---a black man was terribly injured while in the custody of
the police.  But now there is evidence that he was injured long before his arrest---the case will be
studied and justice may or not be served. But the black community has come to a verdict, regardless  of evidence.  It's a very big deal to them---payback time for years of injustices served to them by the police. One feels their pain, but burning their own house down with riots and looting, will only inflame and encourage prejudice. The only sustainable way out is through their own windows and doors---the ones called self respect, work, responsible families,  education----and a refusal to be defined by their past.  Racist words? Only if you spin it that way. True racism is based on hatred and prejudice, and yes, unfortunately, it is alive and well--- it is ugly, our eternal national disgrace, and must not be tolerated---but  it won't be stamped out by encouraging violence , excusing bad behavior, all as a cure or compensation for racism.

And finally, perhaps ultimately,  we have terrorism led largely by ISIS, who have now taken over huge swaths of Iraq, including Ramadi, which is very close to Iran.  Their ruthless march on the middle east is alarming, and threatens world peace as never before.  The consequences could be catastrophic for world order---do we care enough to fight back? Obama has just announced that he has no "complete strategy" to manage the ISIS invasion---seriously? Does he really expect us to
believe that the Pentagon,  to whom he has passed the buck, has no complete strategy? No, again
Obama is stalling. Why? Because he can, and because he electorally promised to get out of Iraq, not stay in for the long haul.

We are being shaped and our futures decided daily by events unfolding at record breaking speed, including a foreign trade deal, the Trans Pacific Partnership treaty, that if passed will affect untold numbers of American workers. The public has been told little, but if ever there was a time to pay attention, this is it. "Just Politics" doesn't cut it anymore as an excuse to check out---unless you just don't get it. This is us, and our children's future. The next many months will lead up to the next presidential election.  It will be grueling, boring, and brutal at times---because we have reached perhaps the biggest deal of all---a turning point.  What kind of America do we want? A European throwback, or a return to more conservative/constitutional values?  Bigger government or smaller? Welfare or Capitalistic state?  Fight or bow to our enemies abroad---and among us?  Police or anarchy? A democracy or tyranny?


If you are reading this, mull, research, and consider, then speak your mind, write your representatives, and the next time someone says "It's just politics", try this on--- there's no "just" in politics, because today everything is political. It's how you live, work,  love, speak, travel, the very air you breathe. Engage! Because this is possibly the period that historians will someday mark as the time America either cared, or caved---thrived, or died.  A very big deal.





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OUR NAMELESS ENEMY-- " NOT A THREAT TO OUR EXISTENTIALISM"??

Do you feel threatened by terrorism, and the escalating,  horrifying news? President Obama is feeling the heat---sort of.  He no longer refers to ISIL as "Junior Varsity".  But he refuses to name them. to call them what they call themselves, The Islamic State, for fear that doing so will cause a backlash to the entire Muslim people---does he seriously think we cannot discern the difference between loving, rational Muslims and radical jihadists? Be that as it may, On Wednesday of this week, he called a special summit on the threat of "extreme violence" right here in River City, or wherever you may live here or in the world.  Seems he has finally come to the conclusion that terrorism by any name other than Islamic is an issue worth his full attention., if for no other reason, in order to pacify the growing concern of those around him, and the general public. He has asked congress for their approval and blessing to wage increased  military action, not war precisely,  against ISIS , and warned the terrorists that they will lose. But also, that we will fight  for only three years, mind you, an odd pronouncement to make public--but Obama likes time tables in military matters. He is a reluctant warrior and  ironically, he has been dragged into, if not outright wars, skirmishes and military actions, ever since taking office---a bitter pill and a heavy dose of reality for a man who ran as an anti-war presidential candidate, and thought he could change the world by offering his hand instead of a fist.

The world is not as Obama wished or dreamed it could be---real life can be such a bummer. Ideologies often aren't enough to manage a country safely and effectively--they may sound good in speeches, look great on paper, and feel so fine---but  their true test,where the rubber meets the road, is in  the practical application of policies applied to real world situations--in this case, leading from behind, not interfering in other countries' business, insisting on coalitions to join the fight against terrorism,  refusing to name this enemy, and finally to down play, or even to admit a clear and present danger. .So goes the Obama doctrine---and six years into his term, we watch and wonder---does he still believe himself? Does anybody? Are we safe in his hands, still respected enough to ward off those who think they can bring us down by sheer brutality and horror not seen since the holocaust?

Seems ridiculous, but the over powering of governments is happening elsewhere in Syria , Iraq,  Libya.,and parts of Africa---and is growing. This unholy, holy war, appeals and is attracting recruits from everywhere---and last weekend the horror continued as 21 Christians were marched to their beheading executions in Egypt. There are rumors of children being crucified and burned to death, as their parents are forced to watch, and sexual slavery---this is no rag tag, under financed army, no kind of enemy we have ever faced in our history.  But do they really think, these radical fanatics, that they can terrify us into submission? Ridiculous, some say-----so why the fuss? Are we not too big to fall?

Apparently Jordan is feeling threatened--within 24 hours after witnessing their military pilot be burned alive, they were dropping bombs on terrorist training camps. Egypt, France, and Australia, all victims of recent terrorism, are paying close attention, and asking for more of ours---but Obama is  taking his time, even lecturing to the annual Prayer Breakfast Meeting in Washington, and reminding that the crusading Christians killed many in the name of their religion, so let us not "get up on our high horse". Really? That was a very long time ago, and hardly a rationalization for barbaric behavior in today's world. But we are under the auspices of a man who mystifies and stymies with his no drama personality, and his sanguine attitude to events which would seem to incentivize outrage and immediate action. Though there are  theories as to why Obama seems so dispassionate, the most logical is that he simply does not appear to consider the threat of terrorism to be, in his words, a "threat to our existentialism". His priorities lie with other kinds of thinking, one of which is keeping Iran our ally and moving them toward a nuclear peace treaty. All hail to the chief, he marches to his own beat, and nuclear peace is a worthy goal---but does he not see the gathering storm, which could de-rail even the best of intentions?

And then there was the incredibly curious statement by a State Department spokesperson, Marie Harf, who said we must fight this enemy, not with weapons, but with compassion and understanding.  Find these people jobs, she said, and we will change their  hearts. We will let those thoughts speak for themselves, as we learn that even people of good will---missionaries, humanitarians, Jews, Christians, and Muslims are being slaughtered simply because they are not radical Islamists. And while many of the young recruits to jihad are young, poor, uneducated people, even young Americans, their leaders tend to be quite educated and financially secure---they are the pied pipers of our time, peddling false hopes, and their enticement is power and a perverted religion--it is doubtful that  agape type love will stop their lust for triumph to their cause. We seem to have reached a critical mass---something must be done, but what?

It  gets down to this: How do we defeat an elusive enemy with no one country or base, and who does not honor life over their religion, and in fact murders in the name of their God,  and in the most heinous way  Boots on the ground? Big bombs in the air? Or a more measured,  allied, even compassionate approach? Those are the big questions  No, we say--- no more American lives sacrificed, no more collateral damage done in retaliation to a force that would love to take us on,. But sadly, we may have no choice.  Perhaps Obama is right, and we can take our time with the aid of a world wide coalition, marginalize and defeat without an outright war---but at this point, the coalition is minimal, and  it is said that we are the only ones who can truly stop this volcanic flow of barbaric aggression that is effectively taking over the middle east, much faster than anyone thought possible.

President Obama is nobody's fool,  and is surely a patriot who wishes the best for America--- but neither has he proven himself an effective, trusted leader. Perhaps he is not as naive or incapable as his worst critics accuse, or as wise as his most ardent followers proclaim---but events are exploding daily, and empires have been known to fall very quickly.  Will we eventually see and buckle under to suicide bombs in our streets, our cars, our Capital? Or will more Christian/Jewish/Muslim executions move us to demand more extreme retaliation? Worse, will a middle east caliphate emerge and become powerful enough to threaten us with a nuclear war? Sorry, but these are the stuff nightmares are made of,---and what all the fuss is about.

We can only hope that the summit on "extreme violence" concluded with at least a recognition that this brutal, unimaginable onslaught against humanity must be met with something besides summits and a refusal to believe that it may indeed affect our right to exist, and civilization as well. Hyperbole? The Jordanian pilot, the Christians in Egypt, and all other innocenr victims of this long brewing hatred against anybody who refuses to accept their brand of religion would disagree---but the summit on extreme violence came too late for them---and apparently didn't reach any  momentous decisions.  President Obama, once again  used the occasion to lecture on the why of terrorism, instead of how to stop it--- but while we dither, so many are being sacrificed on the alter of restraint and empathy---and a refusal to even acknowledge that this enemy has as its roots a belief in an ancient faith that considers itself the one true religion---a so called holy war whose  actions they passionately believe is indeed holy, justifiable, because it is in the pursuit of a world domination, and conversion to their faith --the Apocalypse, or at least Sharia law--all in their view, condoned by the Koran.

There is a difference between understanding the root cause of the enemy, and self defense, and it is stunning to see our nation blink passively  before those who have no intention of mercy toward us. What to do?  One thing is clear--what we've done so far, isn't working. The latest threat  came today---our shopping malls are the newest targets.  We think the "threat to our existentialism" has just been given notice---red flag status.

WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE?

Up! Of course! That's what we do.  Americans do not stay down for long, and we are already seeing the signs of optimism and recovery from a devastating recession and a country in huge political turmoil. Despite the doom and gloom of the past several years, there is a feeling that we're coming back---and in spite of bungling mistakes, weak leadership on all sides, and contrary to reports of our demise. We have been divided, polarized to the point of paralysis, torn from our constitutional  bearings, and left to drift in a sea of  uncertainty. Yet, we are still here, still the envy of all others, and with a little luck we are going to make it, after all. The housing market, is slowly coming back, unemployment is whittling downward, the stock market is up,  and gas prices are unbelievably down!  All of these trends can be interpreted with cynicism and skepticism---but for now, it feels good to breathe the air of a new year, and hope for the future.

 But who are we, at this point, and who do we as a whole, wish to be?   Ah, that is the question, isn't it?  Are we able to be a "whole", or are we too fragmented to be anything but a mixed bag of parts with no sure vision? Whose America  do we mostly desire?  The progressive left,  the moderate left, the center, the right, or the  conservative right? From the  extreme left concept of a centralized government , ruled by a few of the best and the brightest, to one of as little government as possible controlled by the will of the people, --- or somewhere in between. We yell and scream,  riot, hold demonstrations, tug, push, and pull. we rock and roll with all of our differences like a a ship on a roiling sea. Our president has more or less thrown up his hands and decided to go it alone on many issues, by executive fiat., a pen and phone. We watch warily, vote in a different crew, and keep rowing.---toward what?

Are we able to be  united in something beyond our desire to be free, to seek the American dream?  And even those at times seems to be slipping away as we construct more and more rules to keep it under control---as though the concept of freedom itself has led us to a point of dangerous vulnerability which requires constraints---and less freedom. Fire walls built, rules created, regulations put in place---all to guard against over indulgence . Our banks and corporations proved they were not above corruption; our borders too porous to protect from far too many illegal entries ; our speech too loose to be respectful of all, and even our privacy not exempt from government interference.  Our middle class, the lynch pin of our society, is shrinking as they bear the burden of supporting too  much and too many --- and without enough compensation for their labor, i.e. exorbitant taxes,  too many corporate loopholes, excessive bonuses, and pensions vs. a better living wage for those who turn the wheels. We are a very  unsettled country---almost schizophrenic, as we struggle to find the right balance between freedom vs. responsibility, independence vs. dependence, and free market vs. creeping mega government control, otherwise known as socialism.

But where would you rather be? China, Russia, Africa,  any place in Europe? Really? There's no place like this country. Try living elsewhere for awhile--the differences will astound and even frighten you, offend your senses--and the return to home will make you know why so many still clamor to get here. We are in spite of ourselves, our mixed parts, the free-est, the most stable, offering still  the best quality of life for the most, with an economy that supports and still promises to be the best in the world. We are coming back, and hopefully are chastened by our hard times, taught by our excessiveness, made  wiser by those who say no to racism or bias toward any minority group---we are bawdy at times, loud and unruly, but by and large, we are a nation of good will and laws.  We understand that in order to keep the peace and our sanity, we must have faith in our system.  We do not want a police state, or corrupt policemen, but nor do we wish to be ruled by mob or vigilante thinking. We are better and smarter than that, and our higher instincts will prevail.  But will that be enough to sustain us for the journey ahead?

There is an unspoken, strong under current which runs very deep in the American soul---it is that no matter who's running the ship, how many wrong turns or mistakes are made by us, our leaders, we intend to ultimately win, by sheer will power, and our own boot straps, because the one thing that makes us different and united is this: We don't believe in failure, our spirit, our inherent DNA is stronger than any one ideology, party, or pen. The  best of ourselves will rise to the occasion, as we continuously mix, stir,  and shape ourselves.

 If we're actually getting better, as it appears--it's not so much due to any one president, policies, ideologies, congress, or even all our rules and regulations to keep us in line---it is perhaps in spite of, and because we refuse to stay unwell, and if not rendered completely helpless by circumstances beyond our control, we'll fix ourselves as we have from the beginning---and we'll do it with all our dirty laundry hanging out for everyone to see, because we don't hide our flaws here.  Our basic doctrine of can-do, our entrepreneurs, our good people, our hard workers, our free market structure, and our ability to elect our leaders will hopefully see us through. Exceptional? Yes---we are, and we didn't get here by being like everyone else,  bowing to intimidation or misfortune, or following like sheep to a place we wish not to be.

Where to from here? That's the great thing about us---it's anywhere we collectively choose! Our freedom allows us to be flexible, to try this way or that. to grow and to mature into possibly a nation of even greater enlightenment, strength, and leadership. But much depends on world events --and how we respond. Like it or not,  we are still at war, and there is much more at stake than our domestic issues.
As the world grows smaller we face many challenges and threats, not the least of which is to our national security.

Happy New Year to us---next stop, the future.  That's where we're going.  Be brave, watchful, and buckle your seat belts---the destination is still in question, but the ride is a thriller!

TRANSFORMED ---GOT A PROBLEM WITH THAT??

He said from the beginning he would transform this country,  and the people were not exactly sure what that meant, but they liked the sound of it---moreover, they blindly trusted him, this new, young, fresh, multi-racial, intellectual, articulate, and oh so cool, likable man who  knew how to use a cell phone and channel political data like a wizard. Obama killed it in the polls, drove Hillary from the presidential race, vanquished the very polished and experienced Romney, and finally we crowned him the new prince of power and keeper of all we hold dear in this country---our freedoms, our security, our place in the world.  The electorate appointed this man, of whom we knew so little, to lead honorably and to transform what he might for the better,  --after all, there is always room for improvement. There were questions, even mystery, and uncertainties, but we were sure that we were protected from an invasion of  over correction, too much change, or power grabs by our carefully designed government structure. We were wrong.

President Obama has shown us again and again that he meant what he said about transforming this
country, and if he could not accomplish that with congressional approval, he would find other ways, and he has.  Last week he announced that he would implement his own immigration plan to grant a form of amnesty to millions of illegal immigrants presently living in this country. He has taken executive decision making to an elevated level and given new  meaning to executive privilege. In challenging those who did not like what he was doing,  he said "Pass a bill"---which evidently means, pass a bill that he completely agrees with, because it isn't that the Republicans haven't presented their ideas on the subject---they have, many of them, and he knows it.  Easier to call them obstructionists,   as either he didn't like what they proposed, or Harry Reid didn't bother to present them. In the meantime,  he has proposed a law that will allow 4-5 million illegal immigrants to remain here for an extended time. They will  be allowed to work and reap other benefits, including Medicare and Social Security.  It is calculated that this new law will cost approximately 2 trillion dollars, which of course will be passed on to the American tax payer, in addition to the loss of jobs they will suffer as a result.  But the real damage  is the dangerous precedent it is setting for a country whose very foundation and core reason for being depends on checks and balance--hammered out, by group agreement, no matter how fraught with difficulty and animosity.

It was an in your face move, calculated, bold, and especially outrageous because of the numerous
times Obama, himself, had said he could not, would not do such a thing, as it would be
against the constitution and "not the way we do things in the United States."  Yet, he will do it with
the stroke of his pen. It would have been nice if Obama had bothered to explain his change of heart and explained how it is appropriate and legal now, but  was not back when he was trying to persuade the voters how constitutionally respectful he was. Instead, he simply announced that what he was doing was perfectly legal ---we'll leave that for the lawyers and courts to decide, and they will, as law suits are being considered along with other measures of stopping this latest action, sans congress. It's another hot mess, and  will do nothing to stop the grid lock that plagues this administration.

It isn't so much what Obama is proposing, but how he does it that leaves one reeling at the audacity of it all--- that he has crossed a line, trespassed against our intrinsic sense of propriety, and is moving too fast for comfort. It is true he has used his executive powers to make law fewer times that any other modern day president, but none have acted as expansively, aggressively, and on such important matters as the national Healthcare Act,  energy, and now immigration. Both affect the entire country in monumental ways, and it has been shocking to observe how little we have been able to say about either--and how one man has been capable of changing so much.

The cavalier use of our laws and legislative process, by detour and deviousness, may seem justified, even heroic to some, but in fact, it is perhaps great cause for alarm---because when one man or one party cannot work with the congress, it should not be said that the system isn't working. Indeed,  it is working---gridlock occurs precisely because there is a glitch, a red light flashing caution, even to halt what is happening, ---because further thought and care are needed, as opposed to charging full speed ahead.  To do that on issues which beg majority support should not be done via an absolute decree by one man, which in the end is worse than gridlock, because it disrespects and disenfranchises congress---that's us, and our skin in the game.  It is tantamount to surrendering the pillars of our system, and it will affect all of us--- Democrats, Republicans,  and future presidents, because what goes around comes around. We will  no longer be who we were. We will be vulnerable to the  power and whims of both noble or unwise men,----and an occasional rogue.

 Got a problem with that? Eat dirt. Obama didn't say it in those words, but he may as well have, with his kingly attitude. What a guy. And what a country. A country whose transformation on so many levels occurred so stealthily and quickly that we hardly had, or took time  to notice.  We're noticing now---the last election spoke loud and clear---Yessir, we have a problem! Do you care?

Our only alternative, the Republican party does ---but do they have the spine and wisdom to stand up against what is proving to be an intractable, powerful wave of extreme left wing political and media manipulation---persuade most of the people most of the time, until sheer voter numbers win, and transformation is complete.   But not so fast--America is nothing, if not capable of re-inventing itself again and again. Usually by a democratic process---

The victors in the last election, must now try to effect change again, to right the ship without taking on too much water. They are being cleverly cautioned by the Dems, and even some of their own, not to come across as  shrill, or agents of "payback"---to resist shouting "No!" too loudly, or behave vigorously against their defeated congressional enemies or their wishes.  That would be politically incorrect---uh, wait.  Stop! Is anybody listening? The people spoke, and they are not happy with the status quo. Do their voices no longer count?

Memo to the Republican Party : Either put up or shut up. Show us what you've got---
yes, send Obama a bill, lots of them, on immigration, improvements to the healthcare debacle, the Canadian pipe line, the war on terror, etc., and let the record show it---but word on the street is that  you will make nice, and appear magnanimous  by finding areas of narrow, insignificant areas of agreement, sign off on budgets out of control, then sit down like petulant boys and girls, all of which  is to once again cave to the power and trickery of politics, to the fear of being unpopular,  and in so doing, bow to those who snicker on the sidelines at the the Republican's naivete---and are already planning their next executive move.  C'mon guys---go big or go home!

If we are to resist becoming a country we no longer recognize, the Republican Party must stand firm or fade into history as a relic of the past, and the days of balanced government;  because once begun, like an imploding building, the power of dismantling is hard to stop---and the walls keep tumbling down.  No-o-o- problem---never liked all that election stuff anyway. Can we have a Queen at least? I know one who's looking for the job----

TATTLING ON THE PRESIDENT --- OR "WORTHY FIGHTS", BY LEON PANETTA

When a president's own up close and personal administrative teammates begin to turn away, it's very lonely at the top. But timing is everything---and tattling on a president can only be of true service, if done at the right time. The tell all later authors are coming out of the woodwork. First we had a book by Mr. Robert Gates, former Defense Secretary, then Hillary Clinton stepped up with her contribution to let us know she was her own person,  fit to be the next president of the United States. Now enter Leon Panetta, former director of the CIA, and as Secretary of Defense, was Obama's chief advisor and one of few insiders allowed inside the president's circle. The man is likable, avuncular, almost unctuous when he speaks of others and their accomplishments--one can immediately see how he lasted so long in the world of politics---never burn your bridges, always put a positive spin on things related to your party, ---and never criticize too harshly.  But he just  did, with this new book, "Worthy Fights". It was a soft bombshell, an eye opener, and a stunning betrayal of confidence at the highest level of political partnerships. Why, and why now?

Mr. Panetta alleges in his book that  President Obama while good at listening to others' sage opinions, rarely heeds their advice, and that he is lacking in proactive leadership, governing only by crisis--- reacting slowly, rather than heading off problems before they grow too big to manage. He seems at a loss to explain the president's failure to lead, to overcome the rough give and take of Washington politics, saying that he thinks Obama gave up somewhere along the way out of frustration and anger.  His most damning charge is that Obama refused to take action in the earlier stages of the Syrian uprising, allowing red lines to be crossed, exhibiting a passive attitude, which in turn emboldened further terrorist aggression---all the while  knowing full well that this was the next hot bed for terrorism. Doing  so, wrote Panetta, was puzzling , a show of leadership paralysis,  and set the stage for the present and worsening situation with ISIS, with which we are now embroiled.

It is a serious charge and one that will erode even further Obama's credibility, which is at an all time low, and rivaling that of some of most unpopular presidents. In addition to the previous charge, Mr. Panetta also criticizes Obama's decision not to leave adequate US troop behind in Iraq.  He alleges that Obama was advised by himself, then Sec. of State, Hillary Clinton,  the military, and others to negotiate whatever terms it took to keep strong presence in Iraq so that we could guarantee stability and not waste the years and treasure we spent there.  Game over on that one---we lost.

There are other serious revelations in Leon Panetta's book, not the least of which are details
regarding the Benghazi attack and the ensuing false statements made by the White House to the public.  But in listening to several of Panetta's interviews, in which he discusses his book, one
gets the sense that while he questions many of Obama's decisions or lack thereof, he wishes to
maintain a public stance of respect and even a belief in the president's good intentions, intelligence,
and competence. When asked why he didn't wait until Obama was out of office to write this semi/ scathing book, Mr. Panetta responds that it was precisely because he believes in the president's ability to change, that he will rise to the occasion and our tumultuous times, and even perhaps that the book will somehow give this beleagured president impetus and reason to do so.  Seriously? That is highly unlikely, given Obama's politically driven record, and his penchant for digging his heels in.  Why would he listen now, at this late date, to Leon Panetta or others? That would require extreme humility, incredible bipartisanship, and a Damascus like epiphany. On the other hand, other presidents have done it,  most notably,  Lyndon Johnson, Reagan, and Clinton, when it became clear that they were moving against the tide of events ,negative repercussions of their previous decisions, and the general tone of the country. They changed course, and shifted more to the middle, even risking the wrath of their own party base. They listened not to their politically motivated opinions, but did what they thought was the right thing.

But don't hold your breath, Mr. Panetta--- and you might want to make sure your taxes are in order. Because while Mr. Obama seems ever so careful not to offend or attack those who oppose us abroad, his administration has no trouble going after those who disagree with him here at home via the IRS., or public chastisement, via his powerful podium. Recently the man who wrote and produced  two  films which were highly critical of Obama,"2016" and more recently, "America", Dinesh D'Souza was found guilty of wrongful use of campaign contributions and sentenced to jail, and a heavy dose of public humility.  Do the words "scapegoat" or "payback' come to anybody's mind, or do we
actually believe Mr. D"Souza is one of few ever to commit this very questionable crime, and that he was just randomly singled out?

Still, one has to wonder about the nobility of a trusted presidential servant's outing of heretofore privileged information. Were his motives purely for the good of the country and the president, as he states?  If so, one has to then ask: But if that was the case, why didn't you speak up sooner, or at least quit your lofty tenure, as a sign of protest over decisions made on your watch? Glaringly obvious, after all, that books make money, especially those that take no prisoners, as this one does not---sort of.  Mr. Panetta's interviews were interesting to observe in that he seemed to want it both ways--criticize the president, but make sure everyone understands that he is still a loyal soldier, that the Republicans are still largely to blame for much of the president's unaccomplishments, and that he wishes only the best for Pres. Obama. "Worthy fights"? A very strange title for one who was in the middle of those fights, and caved, rather than to stand tall against what he felt was seriously wrong. Think of the statement your courageous action to tell it like it was may have made---you might have lost your job, but the repercussions may have changed the course of history and possibly saved a country from further crises.

What was most troubling about Leon Panetta's words during one of the interviews were those that
expressed his deep concern for the future of this country---"I am worried", he gravely said.  So are we, Mr. Panetta, so are we.  His book broke about the same time the Ebola threat enveloped the world, and eclipsed the attention he was receiving. We have not heard from him or his book since, but his words haunt---that Mr. Obama is a crisis reactive president, not a leader with ability to head off disasters before they happen. But Mr. Panetta also expressed his belief that Obama could still leave behind an admirable legacy, if he will only learn to listen and act upon advice other than that with which his political fortunes depend. We can only hope. The crises mount, and the stakes climb higher.
Enter Ebola, exit trust bolstering---

Of course, there are those who remain loyal to the president and his often mysterious ways, saying that his style is one of caution and wisdom,  that he listens ultimately to his own drum beat, and those of his most left leaning constituents--- but when the polls, the condition and phyche of the country are signaling otherwise, isn't it time to reconsider? And when your own party members who are running for re-election wish you would make yourself scarce, shouldn't you get a clue?  Because the general impression is that either you don't, or that you simply no longer care
what people think--you have a"pen and a phone". Even David Axelrod, one of the president's chief advisors and strongest supporters is publicly worried about the "optics" of Obama's management style. But doesn't he get it? Egad, it's not about "optics", Mr. Axelrod---we don't need special glasses! Even the media has begun to take theirs off--we need a confident, competent country again, based on good, solid decisions by our leaders and the feeling that we're in good hands.

Note to Mr. Gates, Hillary Clinton, and future politically connected authors who knew things were happening that didn't seem right, and remained quiet---come forward, blow the whistle, stand your ground,  and resign if necessary--- before you write a book.  That would be called guts, integrity, and true concern for the country. After the fact, makes you look suspicious, not to mention  an accessory to the results of poor judgement,  enabling a president's arrogance, and  failure to uphold your duty to the American people who count on you to tell like it like it is, not like it was.

To those who would cry "foul!" to critical books on Obama, we can only say, ---perhaps, but letting the cat of the bag, even later rather than sooner, is at least a warning to a president ---careful how you proceed. The worthiest fight of all is that which is fought above politics and ideologies---and for
history to much later conclude that you did the right thing.

 

   

Barbarians at the Gate---

We call them ISIS, or ISIL, nobody seems to know which. They are calling themselves the The State of Islam  and  have taken over large swaths of Iraq and Syria,  and they are brutally, deadly serious about becoming the Caliphate---the ruling empire of the middle east, Sharian syle. They hold no sympathy for anyone who stands in their way, including women and children, and their acts of barbarianism include torture, murder, rape, and pillage. They especially despise those of the Christian /Jewish faith, and are actively engaged in genocide, the likes of which we have not seen since the Holocaust. They are a threat to civilization as we know it, and if their power continues to spread, we are in harm's way as in no other recent time---for we are looked upon as the greatest enemy, and they have told us they are coming---ready or not. Until then, they make do with be-heading American journalists held in their captivity.

Even more chilling is the fact that their numbers are growing, and many of their recruits are coming from Europe and America---increasing the threat to our shores, as now they are able to move freely
across borders, with or without passports, undetected, and free to setting up plans and cells for future attacks.These delusional, mostly young men and women, look upon jihadism as an outlet for their frustrations, an expression of their perverted, radical Islam faith,  and a just and righteous excuse to kill.  They are mis-guided and pawns for those who will use and abuse them, but we are losing them to a wave that is sweeping across the middle east like an out of control cancer, as Obama has aptly named it. Sheer terrorism may have been more appropriate--

Well leveraged and financed by mafia like operations, extortion, violent raids, and kidnappings, driven by passions we can hardly understand, much less deal with in a typical war like fashion, they are a formidable army on a vicious roll--  which makes the movement seem even more appealing to those who would join them---young, angry idealists eager to fight for their cause in a group that appears to be winning. This is not your average small uprising, as in Libya or Egypt. This is an outgrowth of Al Queda, only much more brutal, and this time they mean business. They have vowed to hurt us again, and to" fly the black flag of Islam over the White House"----frightening, insulting words, which would have sounded ridiculous in a earlier time, but now they have our attention.  Somehow we must stop them---but how?

To date, that question remains unanswered---our commander in chief appears not only without a plan, but stymied, clueless, and weak. "We have no strategy" was his first response . That was probably, unfortunately, an honest, naked remark---but why?  We are told that he and the White House knew about Isis and their increasing strength for a year in advance, but apparently did very little.  Now we listen to a president who seems to have become reluctantly aware of an actual clear and present danger and is using more aggressive words like "we will destroy and degrade", but are followed by milder verbiage, ("manage and contain") as if to tone down his previous rhetoric, almost like he went off the teleprompter and mumbled his own more personal, pacifistic  thoughts--'damn  what they tell me to say!'  And now we are back to harsher tones , playing catch up with his own Secretary of Defense, Chuck Hagel, and Vice Pres. Joe Biden who are clanging the alarm bells in his
face. "We will follow you to the gates of hell---", proclaimed Biden. Ya think? But way to show some backbone, Joe.  Somebody has to, and maybe he's finally decided to step up to the plate. Must be somewhat embarrassing to be the last one out of bed, as the fire spreads----but still Obama dithered and dallied.  Or is it that he was taking, as one generous news anchor reported,  a very "measured" approach?  We don't know,  and are more than a little nervous, because the incredulous be-headings continue, the threats and taunts keep coming.

President Obama is an enigma --a puzzle whose pieces don't fit, and the picture keeps changing. His televised comments seem often at odds with his actions and  slip of the tongue remarks---as though he is told by others to say one thing for prime time,; and yet can't keep the dogs of his real truth at bay. It seems to boil down to this: Either he is completely out of his depth, incapable of leading, full of indecision because the options are in conflict with his true feelings --- or he is pursuing a loftier goal, biding his time, playing some supposedly enlightened, cool game of waiting out the crisis, regardless of the immediate consequences, ---  and true to his promise, deliberately transforming this country into an America who,  in his opinion, needed to dial itself down, take a back seat to world affairs, and stop acting like the boss of everybody---in other words, stop  being exceptional, thinking we're better than everyone else. And then, you see, everyone will like us more, and we will take our new global rightful place among nations---equal, magnanimous, and with rancor or malice toward none. Good luck with that----any bully in the school yard looking for a fight or a power play knows that's an invitation to dominate and control. And it's never been easier to invade and infiltrate our
security--the gates are hardly locked.

The American people on the whole are not "hawks", but neither are we willing to stand down in the face of our own safety, not to mention the worst world threat since Hitler.  We are indeed war weary, basically broke, our military stretched to the limit, and  its budget forcefully reduced. But one thing is painfully clear---the tides of war are not receding, as previously announced by Obama. The enemy, like a snake with many heads, is relentless; they seem to be gaining ground, and we are vulnerable, as in no other recent time. We need direction, clarity of purpose, not denial nor cowering in a corner.

President Obama is scheduled to finally make a speech tonight in which he will lay out his newly
found strategy and how we will respond to ISIS/ISIL, no longer calling them the "junior varsity". Will it be boots on the ground, massive air strikes, drones, or some kind of financial penalties? An actual war to be won, or just a pushback? Terrorism that could wreak havoc here very soon, or just a
manageable group of rebels?  Listen to his words carefully---for therein may possibly lie our future---and his. It may be too late to avoid war,  for the enemy is already among us---and finally, Obama
knows it, has no choice but to fight back. But how and at what latent price?

Now is the time to be paying very close attention, to decide what we are willing to pay, how many lives to be sacrificed, whether we can successfully win a war so entangled in religious factions---and whether we can continue to trust those whose most important job is to protect and defend---- and perhaps more importantly and preceding that, to demand respect, and fear  a gate through which an enemy enters at their peril---and with required passports!  Have our leaders  failed us, are we really at mortal risk, and if so, should we not be just a little angry at how we got here??  A black flag flying over the White House? Excuse me!?  Doesn't sound like respect or fear ---or love.  Fighting words---

GIVE ME YOUR TIRED, YOUR POOR, YOUR------????

They are tired, poor, mostly children, desperate, many of them alone---and illegal. They are pouring across our borders from Central America, Mexico, and possibly elsewhere----and turning themselves into the authorities. They have heard or been told that they will not be turned away, at least not immediately---and they are right. Under federal order, they are being treated medically, and eventually bussed to various states and towns, unannounced, uninvited, and in many cases, unwelcome.  Pres. Obama has asked congress for almost four billion dollars to help  care for these children until they can be processed and supposedly returned to their homelands, which could take years, and cause multiple problems, not the least of which is how to afford and absorb this huge, unplanned flood of immigrants into our economy, culture, and society. It is predicted that by fall there will be appox. 90,000 illegal children and adults who have crossed our borders seeking asylum from  poverty, starvation, gangs, violence, and sure death if they remain in their home countries. They have been not only encouraged, but told to come here--to run here, to escape fates worse than anything they might find here, and that we will not turn them away. But what will be the financial consequences of such an overload on our economy, schools, and medical facilities; what will it do to our already ever growing and complicated immigration problem; how will it affect our own poor and needy; and last but not least,  ---is our national security being seriously jeopardized by this unprepared for distraction? Those who wish to harm us, namely terrorists anxious to plant their cells here, can now easily slip  past guards too few and too busy to notice.

It is an epic crisis without precedence. In a normal year, we get around 6,000 illegal immigrants.  In a normal year, they would try to hide from the authorities and sneak in---these, in this year are running towards the police and border control officers, begging for help.  In a normal year, it was rare to see children trying to enter illegally without adults,  ---now there are thousands, 57,000 at last count, rushing in and past the overwhelmed guards.  In a normal year, we would have sufficient shelters and holding areas until we could process  those who were caught, according to immigration laws. Now, we do not have nearly enough places to put this excess explosion of people ---and so they are being dispersed to states without warning and without adequate preparation. Churches, foster homes, military bases,  and even refugee camps,  are being used as temporary solutions until we figure out what to do with them. And what do we do? Most of them are unskilled, uneducated, and many are
sick with contagious diseases.

The humanitarian aspect is almost a given--we dare not, cannot,  turn such needy children away, many of whom are orphans, street kids with no homes. We have no choice as conscionable people.
We must help them----forget about putting them on buses and immediately returning them like unwanted packages--not going to happen. Not now, probably not ever, as many will simply disappear into the crowds, and never show up for their legal proceedings. We will do the right thing, but it may be because we have been doing the wrong thing for too long.

The enforcement of our immigration laws were too lax to begin with, our borders way too porous, and this government too unwilling to deal with the problems of internal illegal"aliens", let alone external, and surely not equipped to deal with tidal waves of so many begging for help. Yes, they
have finally offered an immigration  reform plan for those who are here, and the Republicans turned it down because it lacked what they feel is key---more and strengthened border control. The present situation would seem to  support that argument.

This is bad,  it's likely to get worse, as states and their governors rebel against the Federal government demanding an onslaught of folks they cannot afford--- and it's happening, after all, on President Obama's watch. No getting around it---this president and his policies  are failing us.  Did he not see this coming, or did he, on the other hand, know the risk of ignoring the inevitable-- he's not stupid, he had to know the price of too little enforcement of laws already on the books, too much tolerance for those breaking the laws, --- and still made choices seemingly based on political reasons and his own deep ideology? He appears even more helpless and hapless than usual, refusing to even visit the overwhelmed Texan border---either he feels he already knows how bad the situation is, and doesn't have anything further to offer, other than to ask for money to treat the symptoms, but not the problem---or he simply, incredibly, washes his hands, believing somehow it's all the Republican's fault, and let the chips fall where they may. Admittedly, it's hard to say what can be done at this point,  but some have suggested sending in the National Guard to beef up the borders, while at the same time sending a strong message that we cannot, will not accept any more illegals. Sounds reasonable, helpful, even life saving---but so far, no dice.

It appears " the chickens have come home to roost." Where have we heard that folksy adage before? Does  Jeremiah Wright, President Obama's previous pastor, ring a bell? Has his pulpit condemnation of America come true? Are we now being asked to pay for our sins, by drowning in a sea of people clamoring to get in, our gates flung wide open, our borders useless, and our once prosperous and welcoming country, hardly able to support ourselves, let alone droves of limitless immigrants?

"Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free". Yes, that is our proud heritage and our history--but not all at once, invasion style.  Immigration laws and control over who and when we allow in are there for a reason---to protect those who are here,  maintain an orderly society, and offer those who come here legally a better life, not chaos and a dream that is fading fast. This is serious stuff---we are in trouble, and perhaps not even fully aware of the repercussions and danger of gathering storms on the horizon, rolling in on the heels of this latest crisis. As we seek to help, we are taking our eyes off our very own well being and safety.

 Reverend Wright also so memorably said, "God damn America". Really, Rev? Where would you be without us? And how is it, that this is still the ultimate desired destination for the oppressed, a beacon of hope? No, sir --- God bless America. We may fall short, fumble, fight, and fail at times---but we do the right thing when the chips are down. We just need a little more leadership about now----someone to show us how to save the land of the free and the brave, without giving away the store---or have it
taken from us.

WHILE IRAQ BURNS----

Iraq is on fire with civil war, and that's just one more crisis on top of about five more brain rattling scandals and rumors of war. One wonders what's next---Armageddon? So we took a breath and attended the Colorado Republican annual fund raising dinner last weekend. Would they have any
encouraging words or helpful hints?  It was predictably predictable---open bid auction, sit down dinner, accompanied by piped in dead Sinatra crooning, all manner of thank you's  and plaques awarded----and finally the speaker, a pinch hitter for the well known among conservatives, Michael Horowitz. A well known conservative speaker and author, Mr. Bill Whittle had some tough shoes to fill, but he did that and then some----his remarks were delivered with  rapid fire
style, and his message was electrifying-- don't let the country go downhill anymore! He was young, cool, crisp, and on fire with his message---i.e., don't buy into the narrative of defeat, that America has seen its better days, we're done, and hello socialism.  No, stand up and fight against a media who has sold their souls to a president who has sold us down the river with his policies, and failed us as a leader on almost all levels. But what to do? Get involved,  care enough to speak your mind, refuse to be shut up, called a racist, or politically incorrect for criticizing the cultural tsunami of intolerance for anyone who dares to utter anything at all against Obama, or not in harmony with the current attitude of tolerance for all, except those who are deemed intolerable. Freedom of speech, except for those whose speech does not meet the approval of the administration or the culture ---off with their heads, uh-so to speak. Ask  the NFL's Washington Red Skins.

The speech was a clarion call for a party who is down on their knees , suffering from a split personality complex, and a Tea Party grass roots faction, who have the very annoying habit of speaking their minds even against the more moderate establishment core of the party---and managed to unseat the Senate minority whip, Eric Cantor last week. How dare they? Who do they think they are anyway, to go against the grain of career politicians who know the ropes, which is to go along, in order to get a long career. Sorry boys and girls, but evidently Cantor was considered too middle of the road for their taste---or maybe he was just a victim and the nearest target for  fed up Americans, who are mad as hell and aren't going to take it anymore. The Cantor ouster was a blistering blow, and a warning shot across the bow to those who think the way to go is a little more to the left to please the liberal populace that has everyone thinking that the emperor is wearing clothes, when in fact, he is buck naked and shivering with one disaster after another. But how does one break the spell, wake people up, turn this country back to the prosperous, proud, and confident place it once was?  Not going to be easy--but the Repubs could start by losing Sinatra, presenting a bolder, fresher image, speak their opinions to all who will listen, and include the Tea Party folks, possibly the only ones who have the guts to call it as they see it. They could also stop bickering over the details of who loves whom, who lives with whom, or who wishes to get an abortion--ain't nobody's business but their own.

We don't know for sure yet, but the party of Abraham Lincoln, the party that was originally named after the idea that the republic of the people, not the government, should be in control of its own destiny----is a done deal, unless it can rise from the ashes of its near demise, refuse togive into a loser attitude, and instead, get red hot with the message that their idea of how to do things is the way, the truth and the light. Yes, he actually said that religious thing, and it resonated because Republicans so need passion about now---not religious passion, but faith and enthusiasm for their core mission statement---smaller government,  lower taxes, and the free market system.  He went on to say that capitalism, though imperfect, works the best, and socialism never has, and that the best way to help the most people is to let most of the people help themselves, without a supposedly benign government and their cronies promising to fight for the good of all, while feathering their nests with their own power and the inevitable greed that goes with centralized government. They, the oligarchs of power, are not immune to unsavory traits---Obama himself said once that anyone who is against him and his party's ideals is the enemy and must be destroyed. Not a very democratic concept, but one that he has managed to quite adroitly perfect within a very short span of time---We are not the better for it----we are divided, ripe for conquering.

We have been transformed. It goes like this-- we no longer believe much in ourselves, and neither doe the rest of the world. Exceptional? No, that would mean we are special, and that's not politically correct in today's globally thinking, kumbaya wishing world.  Much better to be one of the guys, instead of a pushy leader. That's been the new normal, and we bought it hook, line, and sinker---because some actually agreed, and liked and trusted Obama---but does he really like us?? And
are we really better now, more loved, and safer than we were before Obama??
Or are we simply his stepping stones to re-invent America into his very own different, European vision, and hang the consequences?

Obama apparently thought we needed to be brought down a notch or two-- give up our role as the world's policeman---mission accomplished, as we watch in dismay as country after country seems to be coming apart at the seams. How's that "re-set" button working for us in Russia, and isn't it  so high-minded and "tough love" how we've left Iraq to fend for itself? Yes, yes--- maybe we should never have gone there in the first place, but we did, and things were going rather democratically well for them for a while---until we turned tail and left  quite prematurely, basically rendering all our military lives lost for nothing, and allowing an open door for terrorism to come roaring viciously through. Same thing happening in Syria, Libya, and Egypt---and very likely Afghanistan, as we soon make our announced exit. Zero net sum---but all part of the pattern to surrender our power, and transform ourselves into an innocuous, neutered, hands off, just another country, --- too noble, war weary, and broke to fight, not to mention emotionally and physically exhausted from our own problems here at home.
 
Time to pick up our marbles, draw up the bridges, and stay home? Sounds rather good, doesn't it---home sweet home, and who needs anything else? Except that home isn't safe from the the wrath of a relentless  terrorism which has not gone away. ISIS is the new Al Queda and it is even more vile and violent---they are deadly serious about their goal to terrorize whole countries into submission, as witnessed by the kidnapping of young Nigerian girls, and now the brutal torture and maiming of Iraqi dissidents. Their ultimate goal is complete dominance over Iraq, Iran and Syria, the enforcement of Sharian law, and their next target is Israel, then, inevitably us, because we support Israel, and are the embodiment of their version of sin. They mean business, and we're already in their cross hairs. It is just a matter of time---and still, our President fiddles, and considers, and thinks some more---he is a reluctant warrior, slow to condemn terrorists, and an indecisive peacemaker.  And so, he does very little, and hopes that things will resolve themselves---as countries burn, people die, democracies fall to the brutality of religious fanatics, and the fires advance ever closer to our shores.

This week President Obama curiously released 12 more Guantanamo prisoners heretofore connected to terrorism.  This follows the very confusing and unsettling trade of 5 known terrorists for one American soldier who apparently deserted his base and his troops 5 years ago in Afghanistan.  Details to follow, but for now, one has to wonder---what is going on? Who is running the store, and isn't it time we start demanding more answers? In addition, we closed down the American embassy in Iraq, and all Americans are being asked to leave. A suicide bomber killed at least 15 people in Nigeria.  The tide of war is not receding, as Obama has previously announced---on the contrary, the perfect storm may be brewing.

Things are not going well---and like the man said, it may very well be high time we push back---before it's way too late.  Does that mean we want war, more lives lost to
a country that can't seem to help itself? Absolutely not. No more. We've lost enough, paid enough. helped enough. But it does mean serious accountability for an administration whose lack of  leadership may very well have weakened us to a point of vulnerability and last ditch defensive, survival actions. And, sadly, it may mean to prepare for things to get much worse, as the Middle East falls into anti-American hands, and the possibility of a caliphate, a united terrorist ruled Middle East, emerges as the face of an enemy we will have no choice but to fight for our lives and our way of life.

Speak up America---now is not the time to be docile as lambs, properly politically private, and silent as death.  It is time to take our country back from the brink of despair---if you're a Conservative, "man up", speak out, join forces.  If you're a Liberal---think about it. These are not good times. This is no time for petty politics, but for serious introspection and heartfelt debate---as Iraq burns, so too, do the embers of trouble simmer here at home.  We are not Iraq, but we are a country in harm's way, with deep problems of our own, enough to sink a ship.  Isn't it time we begin to pull together, or will we keep fiddling and fighting among ourselves until there is little left to fight for?

One of the things Mr. Whittle, the Republican speaker, said hit home hard----it went something like this:  Don't let one inexperienced man, or one politically driven party decide the fate of us all, as has occurred in other countries, to dramatically change the very foundations of our" house ", our economy, our history, the values by which we live, and our own sense of who we are--there are at least close to one half of us who are more than a little concerned that this is happening before our eyes---because we were too intimidated, timid, and disbelieving to stop it. Words to ponder---as Iraq burns, and we choose to either take wary notice or ignore both the smoke and our own growing fires.