Normally I try to take the high road when it comes to the passing of someone on the republican side of things. We're all human beings, with very differing points of view, but in the end - we're all sailing on the same sea of life. Andrew Breibart was a die hard Republican who was very unapologetic about his views. He would say angry, hateful things because - he could. He felt he was right, justified and otherwise morally superior to attack any democrat or liberal that stood in front of his view.
When someone wants to project themselves in such a manner - it makes him look weaker, less informed and even dense. To be so dismissive while being incredibly antagonistic, hateful and blind to their actions and speech. I've always marveled at how these folks can live with themselves when harboring such ill-will towards anyone that presents a complete argument that is morally stronger than the one they hold. Breibart made his living capitalizing on the morally gray area of what is considered true. Between he, Murdoch and Limbaugh ... the lines of truth get skewed behind a plethora of money that backs corporate media propaganda.
So when I heard about his passing this week - I admit I was conflicted for the first few minutes. I was sad for his family and close friends ... and then I began to take the high road - pointing out differences of viewpoints. Unfortunately, I stopped feeling badly for him when I recalled all of the angry, hateful things he did in the name of politics. The vitriol, the condemnation, the lack of respect, the absence of responsibility - while focused on the stories he wanted to tell - vs. - being truthful.
I was prepared to let his abysmal behavior slide .... until ....
The Fox fake tears, the "warrior tributes," and the enormous outpouring for someone they defend as a champion to their cause.
Cause?
What cause would that be?
Republicans would say that it's the the cause of "taking back their country." As though having control for 8 years didn't do enough harm that got us into this mess to begin with. They of course don't see it that way because they consistently buy into the buffet line that Breibart, Murdoch and Drudge keep dishing out. What Republicans don't seem to understand is how isolated these outlets have kept them. Republican buy into the fact that they have a "fair and balanced" view because that's what the keepers keep telling them...
It all keeps coming back to the irrational perception folks have about their sources of information. That's why I laugh at the notion that Andrew was some sort of warrior for their cause.
That's not what journalism was ever meant to be about. I don't care if it's left, right, libertarian, socialism, or whatever -ism you choose to subscribe to. Journalism is controlled by the media overlords ... and if you want to keep your job - you have to write the stories in a way that's going to satisfy them.
That's why I felt that by trying to push off Breibart's death as some sort of national loss demonstrates the ineptness of the "crusade" he led. When hate, misinformation, deceit and propaganda replace truth, compassion, and unification ... then I hate to say this, but his death probably did more good for the nation than his did being alive.
I understand that there are those that will mourn his loss ... and it disappoints me that I won't be one of them. However, I won't be celebrating in the streets either. I won't be firing off guns as though I've been liberated. But feeling sorry for someone who would wish that a liberal like me die ... no ... I will feel sorry that he wasted his life in such pursuits and has such disdain about him. I will feel sorry for those that mourn the passing of someone consumed with such vile and hate. I will feel sorry for those that believed the stories crafted under the guise of journalism. I will continue to feel sorry for those that operate with a close mind when they think they are open to the world.
Those are things worthy of feeling sad for ... not the passing of some self-absorbed, corporately consumed egomaniac who relished in the downfall of someone if they happened to be ideologically different than he was.
Showing posts with label media. Show all posts
Showing posts with label media. Show all posts
Friday, March 02, 2012
Monday, January 23, 2012
So We Were Right All Along...
The New Yorker magazine has an incredible quote from "two well-known Washington political analysts, Thomas Mann, of the bipartisan Brookings Institution, and Norman Ornstein, of the conservative American Enteriprise Institute:
"One of our two major parties, the Republicans, has become an insurgent outlier—ideologically extreme, contemptuous of the inherited social and economic policy regime, scornful of compromise, unpersuaded by conventional understanding of facts, evidence and science, and dismissive of the legitimacy of its political opposition"
Read more at the New Yorker magazine: click here
A very interesting read about how Obama tried to assert himself as a post-ideological politician following his election bid.
"One of our two major parties, the Republicans, has become an insurgent outlier—ideologically extreme, contemptuous of the inherited social and economic policy regime, scornful of compromise, unpersuaded by conventional understanding of facts, evidence and science, and dismissive of the legitimacy of its political opposition"
Read more at the New Yorker magazine: click here
A very interesting read about how Obama tried to assert himself as a post-ideological politician following his election bid.
Tuesday, September 09, 2008
She Can't Handle the Truth....
Palin's latest hissy fit is nothing short of contemptible..
"Associated Press reporters were not on the plane, but an aide told the journalists on board that all Palin flights would be off the record unless the media were told otherwise. At least one reporter objected. Two people on the flight said the Palins greeted the media and they chatted about who had been to Alaska, but little else was said."
Only want the plant questions I bet ... where's that "straight talk express" bullcrap again??
"Associated Press reporters were not on the plane, but an aide told the journalists on board that all Palin flights would be off the record unless the media were told otherwise. At least one reporter objected. Two people on the flight said the Palins greeted the media and they chatted about who had been to Alaska, but little else was said."
Only want the plant questions I bet ... where's that "straight talk express" bullcrap again??
Wednesday, September 03, 2008
Media Criticized for vetting Palin...
I had to laugh this morning.. Former mayor Rudy Giuliani came out against the media for being "unfair" and "indecent" about how they are vetting Republican Veep nominee Sarah Palin..
Well considering that she wasn't INTERVIEWED until the DAY BEFORE she was announced to be the Veep nominee, I'm not quite sure the R's successfully vetted Alaskan governor successfully before McCain's incredible gaffe of nominating her in the first place.. The Washington Post article goes on to say that The McCain camp didn't even KNOW that her teenage daughter was pregnant out of wedlock until the LAST INTERVIEW, the day BEFORE McCain announced her..
Plain and simple: The R's dropped the ball HUGE with Palin and now they're playing every "sexism" card or "unfair" and "indecent" swipe that they can.. Forget the fact that they probably should've spent more than 3 minutes considering the "Number 2" position as some are calling: "one heartbeat away from the Presidency..."
Way to go R's.... It's no wonder you guys have been floundering around quite a bit over the last several years -- at least now we know why.. If the R's gave as much consideration of the will of the people, listening, and asking the tough questions before they acted -- I doubt very seriously they'd be in this muck..
They brought it upon themselves though -- better for the Democrats, no so much for the Republicans..
Well considering that she wasn't INTERVIEWED until the DAY BEFORE she was announced to be the Veep nominee, I'm not quite sure the R's successfully vetted Alaskan governor successfully before McCain's incredible gaffe of nominating her in the first place.. The Washington Post article goes on to say that The McCain camp didn't even KNOW that her teenage daughter was pregnant out of wedlock until the LAST INTERVIEW, the day BEFORE McCain announced her..
Plain and simple: The R's dropped the ball HUGE with Palin and now they're playing every "sexism" card or "unfair" and "indecent" swipe that they can.. Forget the fact that they probably should've spent more than 3 minutes considering the "Number 2" position as some are calling: "one heartbeat away from the Presidency..."
Way to go R's.... It's no wonder you guys have been floundering around quite a bit over the last several years -- at least now we know why.. If the R's gave as much consideration of the will of the people, listening, and asking the tough questions before they acted -- I doubt very seriously they'd be in this muck..
They brought it upon themselves though -- better for the Democrats, no so much for the Republicans..
Sunday, May 14, 2006
A Tip of the Hat
There's been a deafening absence in mainstream media about what actually transpired at the White House Correspondents Dinner.. Traditionally this is a light-hearted event, a roast if you will that allows the press club to poke fun at the President of the United States..
...the only problem is, this President has a really limited scope of humor...
I'm not saying that Bush didn't make the attempt to have fun, but one could tell that it was rather .... forced.. Laura Bush's particular coldness after Stephen Colbert's presentation spoke volumes in not what was heard, but what was seen.....
Mainstream media spoke in the same volumes as the First Lady..
"He just wasn't funny.." I guess that largely depends on which side of America you're sitting on.. Given that Bush's approval rating has now dipped under the 30% mark - which hasn't happened since Nixon.. So - I'm assuming the majority of the 70% that disapprove of Bush's presidency would actually probably enjoy Colbert's rapport....
But Stephen's stingers weren't just aimed at the President and the cabinet.. He took the opportunity to attack the media for pursuing facts that make Bush look bad.. What's worse is that the press has chosen its fights carefully for whatever fear the administration is laying out.. Condemning Bush almost seems to be a crime..
But thankfully the majority beyond the 29% are starting to recover from their "kool-aid" fog.. Thankfully the press is starting to realize this too - and they have *finally* started doing what they should've been doing since 2001 which is to hold this President accountable for what he's done.. No more free passes.. No more excuses.. No more streamlining announcements..
Reporters are starting to awaken once again..
...except the Administration is seeking legislation to prevent any other leaks from emerging on the basis that they endanger the security of the United States...
Um...
Mr. President..
Not sure how to say this..
...but you've endangered the security of the United States in ways that we can't even begin to describe.. Whether we're talking about Katrina, Plame, Iraq or Dubai.. Take your pick.. "The Decider" has endangered this country in ways we'll have to fix for the next decade.. (assuming that it can be fixed..)
So if we can't criticize the administration, then folks like Stephen Colbert's performance matters even more because their frequency and audience.. Since the press refuses to hold the administration accountable I give you Mr. Colbert, a Tip of the Hat and a profound thank you..
...the only problem is, this President has a really limited scope of humor...
I'm not saying that Bush didn't make the attempt to have fun, but one could tell that it was rather .... forced.. Laura Bush's particular coldness after Stephen Colbert's presentation spoke volumes in not what was heard, but what was seen.....
Mainstream media spoke in the same volumes as the First Lady..
"He just wasn't funny.." I guess that largely depends on which side of America you're sitting on.. Given that Bush's approval rating has now dipped under the 30% mark - which hasn't happened since Nixon.. So - I'm assuming the majority of the 70% that disapprove of Bush's presidency would actually probably enjoy Colbert's rapport....
But Stephen's stingers weren't just aimed at the President and the cabinet.. He took the opportunity to attack the media for pursuing facts that make Bush look bad.. What's worse is that the press has chosen its fights carefully for whatever fear the administration is laying out.. Condemning Bush almost seems to be a crime..
But thankfully the majority beyond the 29% are starting to recover from their "kool-aid" fog.. Thankfully the press is starting to realize this too - and they have *finally* started doing what they should've been doing since 2001 which is to hold this President accountable for what he's done.. No more free passes.. No more excuses.. No more streamlining announcements..
Reporters are starting to awaken once again..
...except the Administration is seeking legislation to prevent any other leaks from emerging on the basis that they endanger the security of the United States...
Um...
Mr. President..
Not sure how to say this..
...but you've endangered the security of the United States in ways that we can't even begin to describe.. Whether we're talking about Katrina, Plame, Iraq or Dubai.. Take your pick.. "The Decider" has endangered this country in ways we'll have to fix for the next decade.. (assuming that it can be fixed..)
So if we can't criticize the administration, then folks like Stephen Colbert's performance matters even more because their frequency and audience.. Since the press refuses to hold the administration accountable I give you Mr. Colbert, a Tip of the Hat and a profound thank you..
Monday, March 20, 2006
The hidden truth of "political capital..."
I first heard President Bush laud his "political capital" after an apparent interview he did on CNN:
"And it's one of the wonderful -- it's like earning capital. You asked, do I feel free. Let me put it to you this way: I earned capital in the campaign, political capital, and now I intend to spend it. It is my style. That's what happened in the -- after the 2000 election, I earned some capital. I've earned capital in this election -- and I'm going to spend it for what I told the people I'd spend it on, which is -- you've heard the agenda: Social Security and tax reform, moving this economy forward, education, fighting and winning the war on terror."
I intend to spend it..
Wikipedia defines it as: "Political capital is the quality of public figure's favorable image among the populace. Also, his current standing among other important personalities (who are usually in government) is important. It is thought of as a commodity which must be spent wisely in pushing for an issue which may not be as popular unless advocated by someone popular."
Bush had every opportunity to unite this country and make solid decisions about its future.. Instead, he remained "tried and true" to his own course - believing that he had every republican in his hip pocket -- until the Dubai fiasco -- until the India nuclear pact -- until the squandering funds for Katrina...
I intend to spend it..
Now people are waking up.. Even politicians who once believed to be sleeping in the bed of the oval - are now waking up.. People are, for the first time, seeing exactly what this President has done to our country, to shaking the stability of the world and putting our nation further at risk..
I intend to spend it..
When you map out several, if not most of the decisions laid forth by this administration, and you see those that benefited the most: the close friends, the businesses that have close ties to this administration, everything.. He spent political capital like you would give a child $1000, walk them into a toy store and tell them to "use your money wisely...."
The advice to spend political capital wisely has been forgotten by this administration and as a result - everyone believes that not only is he a lame duck President, but he's taking the country in a precarious direction.. FINALLY people are taking notice and it's showing in his poll numbers, in his ties and relations to senators and representatives.. People are FINALLY waking up for the slumber that has kept most of us up constantly for the last 6 years..
"We're in trouble, Captain.. The iceberg is *still* directly ahead of us.."
Any political capital that this President has ever had - has run completely empty due to his inept decision making and a spin machine that has run out of cycles.. His staff is very very exhausted - and if you had to do this much spinning and contorting - I would be very tired myself...
"And it's one of the wonderful -- it's like earning capital. You asked, do I feel free. Let me put it to you this way: I earned capital in the campaign, political capital, and now I intend to spend it. It is my style. That's what happened in the -- after the 2000 election, I earned some capital. I've earned capital in this election -- and I'm going to spend it for what I told the people I'd spend it on, which is -- you've heard the agenda: Social Security and tax reform, moving this economy forward, education, fighting and winning the war on terror."
I intend to spend it..
Wikipedia defines it as: "Political capital is the quality of public figure's favorable image among the populace. Also, his current standing among other important personalities (who are usually in government) is important. It is thought of as a commodity which must be spent wisely in pushing for an issue which may not be as popular unless advocated by someone popular."
Bush had every opportunity to unite this country and make solid decisions about its future.. Instead, he remained "tried and true" to his own course - believing that he had every republican in his hip pocket -- until the Dubai fiasco -- until the India nuclear pact -- until the squandering funds for Katrina...
I intend to spend it..
Now people are waking up.. Even politicians who once believed to be sleeping in the bed of the oval - are now waking up.. People are, for the first time, seeing exactly what this President has done to our country, to shaking the stability of the world and putting our nation further at risk..
I intend to spend it..
When you map out several, if not most of the decisions laid forth by this administration, and you see those that benefited the most: the close friends, the businesses that have close ties to this administration, everything.. He spent political capital like you would give a child $1000, walk them into a toy store and tell them to "use your money wisely...."
The advice to spend political capital wisely has been forgotten by this administration and as a result - everyone believes that not only is he a lame duck President, but he's taking the country in a precarious direction.. FINALLY people are taking notice and it's showing in his poll numbers, in his ties and relations to senators and representatives.. People are FINALLY waking up for the slumber that has kept most of us up constantly for the last 6 years..
"We're in trouble, Captain.. The iceberg is *still* directly ahead of us.."
Any political capital that this President has ever had - has run completely empty due to his inept decision making and a spin machine that has run out of cycles.. His staff is very very exhausted - and if you had to do this much spinning and contorting - I would be very tired myself...
Monday, December 19, 2005
Like I trust you NOW....
Trust..
It's one of those things that when it's violated - it doesn't grow back the same way again.. We believed Bush and that was our mistake..
Most recently Alberto Gonzales defended Bush's "right" to spy on Americans with the following limitations:
-"He said Bush's authorization requires that at least one of the parties be outside the country and linked to al-Qaida or an affiliated organization." Whoa Nelly.. This administration has come out to say that SADDAM is linked to al-Qaida when in fact there has been no link found between the ousted leader and the terrorist organization and 9/11.. So, Alberto, I have a real hard time believing that anyone contained in your little circle of friends can adequately IDENTIFY someone linked to al-Qaida or not... Especially when you put 8-month old children on a no-fly list because they are suspected terrorists.....
No, I refuse to believe that they have the capability to satisfy their self-imposed condition...
-"But he refused to say how many Americans had been targeted and insisted the eavesdropping was "very limited, targeted" electronic surveillance. "This is not a situation of domestic spying," he said. " Not so fast.. 60 minutes did a piece back in 2000 -- 5 YEARS ago about the Echelon program; detailing exactly how our intelligence agency has monitored virtually ANY electronic signal from cell phones, cordless phones to baby monitors.. Anything - everything - is recorded and stored.. So the very notion that Gonzales, with a straight face, can argue that domestic surveillance does not exist -- is a bold face lie..
Sorry Alberto, you're 0-2 so far.. You better step aside and let someone else take over..
-Let's bring in Republican Senator Cornyn of Texas who proclaimed that the New York Times has endangered America by exposing the domestic spy plot for purposes of selling an upcoming book release.. Oh wow.. Let's back up here a bit Johnny boy.. First of all let's not forget that it was this administration who ousted a undercover operative -- exposing an intelligence stream which may have put countless American lives at stake -- and could have averted future attacks and impeded the capture of those *KNOWN* terrorists that we keep talking about.. That very small insignificant tidbit aside.....
Secondly, the Patriot Act renewal contains greater authority to surveil virtually anyone, anytime without so much of a judicial oversight.. It's a manifested plot to circumvent the governmental process by eliminating the whole checks and balances routine that our founding fathers fought to secure.. Remember, if any one branch of the government has more control over the other, then we risk the balance of our governing capability - usurp the authority as WRITTEN that approval should be sought before wiretaps and any other surveillance is conducted is PARAMOUNT to sustain a balance within the government.. Government 101 here, John -- better take that class over I'm thinking..
However, *if* the argument is being made that we are in a time of WAR - then let's not selectively pick which points that happen to favor your agenda.. Remember, America in WAR-time meant that you couldn't profit because it would be detrimental to the economy of our country.. So, if you want to put the New York Times out on a stake, then let's address those other profiteers that seem to have gone by unscathed: gas price gouging, Haliburton's monopoly on virtually every recovery effort here and abroad not to mention every politican (not just Senator DeLay) who has profited from creative campaigning tactics that are illegal..
Now if it was a ploy for the New York Times to further their publicity for a book that's coming out, then I'd like to remind you that this administration has gone to some pretty elaborate lengths to capitalize on the press too ... Schiavo immediately comes to mind.. So unfortunately Johnny, you're going to have to face up to the fact that you and your party are guilty of doing the exact same thing that you're trying to condemn..
If we're a nation at WAR - then Johnny, you better start acting like it..
This on the heels of the Iraqi propaganda machine churning out "favorable" stories about the United States, and the constant slant companies like Fox puts out .... all of this begs the question of why do we believe these people at all.. I'm lumping everyone in this one because Democrats are notorious for exaggerating or under/over reporting their facts too..
Back in the day, if you lied and held an elected position - it was political suicide.. If you lie today, eh - you're elected for another term.. It reflects a societal change which started well beyond Bush, Clinton, Bush, Reagan, Carter... I can trace back to as early as Nixon when if you lied - that's bad, but we'll forgive you.. Anymore - you can flat out lie without any support or facts and it just rolls into the next news cycle.. Accountability is non-existent and yet we're setting a record for commissions, investigations and other fact-finding missions into the exploits of our elected few..
Business as usual, I suppose..
It's one of those things that when it's violated - it doesn't grow back the same way again.. We believed Bush and that was our mistake..
Most recently Alberto Gonzales defended Bush's "right" to spy on Americans with the following limitations:
-"He said Bush's authorization requires that at least one of the parties be outside the country and linked to al-Qaida or an affiliated organization." Whoa Nelly.. This administration has come out to say that SADDAM is linked to al-Qaida when in fact there has been no link found between the ousted leader and the terrorist organization and 9/11.. So, Alberto, I have a real hard time believing that anyone contained in your little circle of friends can adequately IDENTIFY someone linked to al-Qaida or not... Especially when you put 8-month old children on a no-fly list because they are suspected terrorists.....
No, I refuse to believe that they have the capability to satisfy their self-imposed condition...
-"But he refused to say how many Americans had been targeted and insisted the eavesdropping was "very limited, targeted" electronic surveillance. "This is not a situation of domestic spying," he said. " Not so fast.. 60 minutes did a piece back in 2000 -- 5 YEARS ago about the Echelon program; detailing exactly how our intelligence agency has monitored virtually ANY electronic signal from cell phones, cordless phones to baby monitors.. Anything - everything - is recorded and stored.. So the very notion that Gonzales, with a straight face, can argue that domestic surveillance does not exist -- is a bold face lie..
Sorry Alberto, you're 0-2 so far.. You better step aside and let someone else take over..
-Let's bring in Republican Senator Cornyn of Texas who proclaimed that the New York Times has endangered America by exposing the domestic spy plot for purposes of selling an upcoming book release.. Oh wow.. Let's back up here a bit Johnny boy.. First of all let's not forget that it was this administration who ousted a undercover operative -- exposing an intelligence stream which may have put countless American lives at stake -- and could have averted future attacks and impeded the capture of those *KNOWN* terrorists that we keep talking about.. That very small insignificant tidbit aside.....
Secondly, the Patriot Act renewal contains greater authority to surveil virtually anyone, anytime without so much of a judicial oversight.. It's a manifested plot to circumvent the governmental process by eliminating the whole checks and balances routine that our founding fathers fought to secure.. Remember, if any one branch of the government has more control over the other, then we risk the balance of our governing capability - usurp the authority as WRITTEN that approval should be sought before wiretaps and any other surveillance is conducted is PARAMOUNT to sustain a balance within the government.. Government 101 here, John -- better take that class over I'm thinking..
However, *if* the argument is being made that we are in a time of WAR - then let's not selectively pick which points that happen to favor your agenda.. Remember, America in WAR-time meant that you couldn't profit because it would be detrimental to the economy of our country.. So, if you want to put the New York Times out on a stake, then let's address those other profiteers that seem to have gone by unscathed: gas price gouging, Haliburton's monopoly on virtually every recovery effort here and abroad not to mention every politican (not just Senator DeLay) who has profited from creative campaigning tactics that are illegal..
Now if it was a ploy for the New York Times to further their publicity for a book that's coming out, then I'd like to remind you that this administration has gone to some pretty elaborate lengths to capitalize on the press too ... Schiavo immediately comes to mind.. So unfortunately Johnny, you're going to have to face up to the fact that you and your party are guilty of doing the exact same thing that you're trying to condemn..
If we're a nation at WAR - then Johnny, you better start acting like it..
This on the heels of the Iraqi propaganda machine churning out "favorable" stories about the United States, and the constant slant companies like Fox puts out .... all of this begs the question of why do we believe these people at all.. I'm lumping everyone in this one because Democrats are notorious for exaggerating or under/over reporting their facts too..
Back in the day, if you lied and held an elected position - it was political suicide.. If you lie today, eh - you're elected for another term.. It reflects a societal change which started well beyond Bush, Clinton, Bush, Reagan, Carter... I can trace back to as early as Nixon when if you lied - that's bad, but we'll forgive you.. Anymore - you can flat out lie without any support or facts and it just rolls into the next news cycle.. Accountability is non-existent and yet we're setting a record for commissions, investigations and other fact-finding missions into the exploits of our elected few..
Business as usual, I suppose..
Saturday, December 03, 2005
Losing Face...
Bush is losing his political standing regarding the Iraq war..
As if this is suddenly *astonishing* news, but it's not..
Democratic Congressman John Murtha's statements have sent a rippling effect through both parties which has stirred up the controversy surrounding the course and action for the Iraq war.. While I may or may not agree with some of his assertions, it was another blow to Bush's attempt to keep his Iraqi project afloat..
But then Bush did something earlier in the week that was just astounding.. He gave a 35 page account for his strategy to win the Iraq war.. I haven't seen this document - I have better things to do with my time, but as I mentioned in an earlier post, 2 years later, two thousand military lives lost, tens of thousands of Iraq people, a fragile government -- and our President, the one who sold the American people that Saddam had WMD and was harboring terrorists and the incontrovertible link between Iraq and Al Qaeda -- the President that has admitted failures in his abilities to handle this war and respond to disasters .... contrived the equivalent of a thesis paper on exactly what it would take to win the war in Iraq..
Now don't get me wrong, I LOVE the idea that our President is actually formulating a plan - but two years after the fact does not seem to be an entirely good way to govern a country, or to run a company..
Apparently others are equally concerned:
"Two of America's allies in Iraq are withdrawing forces this month and a half-dozen others are debating possible pullouts or reductions, increasing pressure on Washington as calls mount to bring home U.S. troops."
The story continues to report that Bulgaria and the Ukraine will begin to pull out their troops by mid-December.. Australia, Britain, Italy, Japan, Poland and South Korea are all looking into plans of their own that would scale back their involvement in the region.. All of this is announced on the heels of Bush's 35-page plan where he calls upon Americans to be "patient.."
Patience..
Amazing how we didn't exercise this so called patience when attempting to determine Iraq's involvement, or (the lack therein) with the events of 9/11, the link to terrorism or even Saddam had possessed WMD.. It comes to find out, if we had been focused and patient 3 years ago - we would not be in the situation we're in today..
Patience..
Saddam's trial is being delayed again - as Saddam himself is saying that there is no jurisdiction over presiding over his alleged crimes.. He disavows the government and maintains that he's still the President of Iraq.. Reports have been circulating that in the likelihood that Saddam is found innocent - the American advisors overseeing the trial are going to make sure Saddam is charged with everything down to jaywalking.... Wow.. "How's that democracy working in Iraq, Dubya??"
Patience..
The Military has admitted to paying off news stories printed in Iraq to give coalition forces a much better slant with the people of Iraq.. We have the same phenomenon happening over here as well - people just don't recognize it because it's called Fox News.. I applaud the military for at least admitting that they are deliberately trying to slant the news -- because they are courageous enough to admit it.. Do we think Murdoch will ever do anything like this?? Eh, not so much..
Patience..
Then there are two stories which have been particularly unnerving: our government has vehemently denied the deliberate bombing of Al Jazzera -- yet, arrests have been made against those that leaked the story because the information was contained in classified material.. Wait.. Arrests were made because someone leaked information contained in classified files - that would make it true, wouldn't it??
The slippery slopes continue with the allegations of torture prisons in Europe.. As the investigations mount, our President is steadfast to say: "we don't torture.." Abu Ghraib is merely a resort in comparison from the other torture prisons that have been circulating in various news rooms.. If in fact the allegations are true - and our prisoners have been sent to these prisons -- then we have yet another lie from this President.. The nerve has been sliced with Condoleeza Rice's warning to our European allies: back off..
The battle cry is slipping, George..
Nations are not rushing to your aid, George..
Allies are backing away, George..
If anything, Bin Laden is probably smiling right now.. America is now very isolated from our allies, several of which that have spanned several decades.. Friendships and cooperation has been fractured by this administration.. With a cavalier approach to politics, foreign relations and this "war on terrorism" George Bush is simply losing ground -- quickly.. Even though we continue to sink deeper and deeper into this abyss this administration is quite comfortable and content to allow it to happen..
We're exposing ourselves to a greater threat - an invisible threat which this administration is blind to: leadership.. He can't effectively govern a country or a war like he's a Monday morning quarterback.. It's ineffective, it's negligent and it's very scary..
The United States of America needs leadership and we need it now..
As if this is suddenly *astonishing* news, but it's not..
Democratic Congressman John Murtha's statements have sent a rippling effect through both parties which has stirred up the controversy surrounding the course and action for the Iraq war.. While I may or may not agree with some of his assertions, it was another blow to Bush's attempt to keep his Iraqi project afloat..
But then Bush did something earlier in the week that was just astounding.. He gave a 35 page account for his strategy to win the Iraq war.. I haven't seen this document - I have better things to do with my time, but as I mentioned in an earlier post, 2 years later, two thousand military lives lost, tens of thousands of Iraq people, a fragile government -- and our President, the one who sold the American people that Saddam had WMD and was harboring terrorists and the incontrovertible link between Iraq and Al Qaeda -- the President that has admitted failures in his abilities to handle this war and respond to disasters .... contrived the equivalent of a thesis paper on exactly what it would take to win the war in Iraq..
Now don't get me wrong, I LOVE the idea that our President is actually formulating a plan - but two years after the fact does not seem to be an entirely good way to govern a country, or to run a company..
Apparently others are equally concerned:
"Two of America's allies in Iraq are withdrawing forces this month and a half-dozen others are debating possible pullouts or reductions, increasing pressure on Washington as calls mount to bring home U.S. troops."
The story continues to report that Bulgaria and the Ukraine will begin to pull out their troops by mid-December.. Australia, Britain, Italy, Japan, Poland and South Korea are all looking into plans of their own that would scale back their involvement in the region.. All of this is announced on the heels of Bush's 35-page plan where he calls upon Americans to be "patient.."
Patience..
Amazing how we didn't exercise this so called patience when attempting to determine Iraq's involvement, or (the lack therein) with the events of 9/11, the link to terrorism or even Saddam had possessed WMD.. It comes to find out, if we had been focused and patient 3 years ago - we would not be in the situation we're in today..
Patience..
Saddam's trial is being delayed again - as Saddam himself is saying that there is no jurisdiction over presiding over his alleged crimes.. He disavows the government and maintains that he's still the President of Iraq.. Reports have been circulating that in the likelihood that Saddam is found innocent - the American advisors overseeing the trial are going to make sure Saddam is charged with everything down to jaywalking.... Wow.. "How's that democracy working in Iraq, Dubya??"
Patience..
The Military has admitted to paying off news stories printed in Iraq to give coalition forces a much better slant with the people of Iraq.. We have the same phenomenon happening over here as well - people just don't recognize it because it's called Fox News.. I applaud the military for at least admitting that they are deliberately trying to slant the news -- because they are courageous enough to admit it.. Do we think Murdoch will ever do anything like this?? Eh, not so much..
Patience..
Then there are two stories which have been particularly unnerving: our government has vehemently denied the deliberate bombing of Al Jazzera -- yet, arrests have been made against those that leaked the story because the information was contained in classified material.. Wait.. Arrests were made because someone leaked information contained in classified files - that would make it true, wouldn't it??
The slippery slopes continue with the allegations of torture prisons in Europe.. As the investigations mount, our President is steadfast to say: "we don't torture.." Abu Ghraib is merely a resort in comparison from the other torture prisons that have been circulating in various news rooms.. If in fact the allegations are true - and our prisoners have been sent to these prisons -- then we have yet another lie from this President.. The nerve has been sliced with Condoleeza Rice's warning to our European allies: back off..
The battle cry is slipping, George..
Nations are not rushing to your aid, George..
Allies are backing away, George..
If anything, Bin Laden is probably smiling right now.. America is now very isolated from our allies, several of which that have spanned several decades.. Friendships and cooperation has been fractured by this administration.. With a cavalier approach to politics, foreign relations and this "war on terrorism" George Bush is simply losing ground -- quickly.. Even though we continue to sink deeper and deeper into this abyss this administration is quite comfortable and content to allow it to happen..
We're exposing ourselves to a greater threat - an invisible threat which this administration is blind to: leadership.. He can't effectively govern a country or a war like he's a Monday morning quarterback.. It's ineffective, it's negligent and it's very scary..
The United States of America needs leadership and we need it now..
Tuesday, November 29, 2005
Impeach!! Impeach!! Impeach what??
I came across a website this morning that called for the impeachment of President Bush.. Well - all of this is fine and dandy until we start looking at the chain of command here: Impeach Bush we get Cheney... Not exactly the best #2 position one would hope for -- but even if we removed the top two ... then we get into the Republican leadership..
So - let's not get too saucy with the whole impeachment movement because it would take several cycles before finding someone both sides would be agreeable towards....
Therefore, I can't agree that Bush needs to be impeached -- why not??
Because if you're really serious about changing the leadership of this country, you have to move the barometer -- which is a lot harder than merely replacing the guy who's HOLDING the barometer.. Just like the weather: the constant shift of barometric pressure happens over a span of time, measured in microsteps, thousand's of an inch -- and this is how we can effectively shift the public's opinion about how this administration is guiding us..
Having said this, the Republicans are doing a fine job imploding on their own without any real help here.. So while the radio heads at Air America and other shows continually apply pressure on their listeners to be angry about it - I'm erring on the side of caution on this one.. Because we're still a deeply divided country and that carries a substantial problem when you're trying to sway public opinion..
I read a flurry of posts regarding something that was said in a forum awhile back -- that illustrates the wanton blindness that the Republican followers have when confronted toe-to-toe with a Democrat ranter.. It's scary and it accomplishes nothing.. The Blindman continues to push blindly into the thorny bush while the Ranter yells and screams at him..
It ... accomplishes ... nothing ...
And here's where I get off the Democrat train - because up until now there hasn't been any sort of push to further any sort of tangible agenda that people could latch on to.. The Democrats are so involved with attack, attack attack -- it's really no question when they don't garner any support..
So another lesson for the Democratic Party: if you're going to scream, then don't expect to win a lot of support from the other side.. You've got to assume that there's very little middle ground here and you've got to start winning the public image war.. This is where the Republicans beat you in 2000 and in 2004..
Improve the image.. Hammer the message and quit the yak yak attacks.. Persuade with intelligent, sound opinions.. The Republicans will continue to implode because they have nothing else better to do.. Their time has come and it's happening now..
The Democrats are missing out on an opportunity - and that's why I don't always sign on to what they are doing because they don't get it.. But until someone steps forward and says: "hey, we gotta change" then the Dems are always going to be in the child seat in the car.....
Drop the impeachment talk - and let's start giving the American people a logical argument for the real life problems that are happening today....
So - let's not get too saucy with the whole impeachment movement because it would take several cycles before finding someone both sides would be agreeable towards....
Therefore, I can't agree that Bush needs to be impeached -- why not??
Because if you're really serious about changing the leadership of this country, you have to move the barometer -- which is a lot harder than merely replacing the guy who's HOLDING the barometer.. Just like the weather: the constant shift of barometric pressure happens over a span of time, measured in microsteps, thousand's of an inch -- and this is how we can effectively shift the public's opinion about how this administration is guiding us..
Having said this, the Republicans are doing a fine job imploding on their own without any real help here.. So while the radio heads at Air America and other shows continually apply pressure on their listeners to be angry about it - I'm erring on the side of caution on this one.. Because we're still a deeply divided country and that carries a substantial problem when you're trying to sway public opinion..
I read a flurry of posts regarding something that was said in a forum awhile back -- that illustrates the wanton blindness that the Republican followers have when confronted toe-to-toe with a Democrat ranter.. It's scary and it accomplishes nothing.. The Blindman continues to push blindly into the thorny bush while the Ranter yells and screams at him..
It ... accomplishes ... nothing ...
And here's where I get off the Democrat train - because up until now there hasn't been any sort of push to further any sort of tangible agenda that people could latch on to.. The Democrats are so involved with attack, attack attack -- it's really no question when they don't garner any support..
So another lesson for the Democratic Party: if you're going to scream, then don't expect to win a lot of support from the other side.. You've got to assume that there's very little middle ground here and you've got to start winning the public image war.. This is where the Republicans beat you in 2000 and in 2004..
Improve the image.. Hammer the message and quit the yak yak attacks.. Persuade with intelligent, sound opinions.. The Republicans will continue to implode because they have nothing else better to do.. Their time has come and it's happening now..
The Democrats are missing out on an opportunity - and that's why I don't always sign on to what they are doing because they don't get it.. But until someone steps forward and says: "hey, we gotta change" then the Dems are always going to be in the child seat in the car.....
Drop the impeachment talk - and let's start giving the American people a logical argument for the real life problems that are happening today....
Friday, September 30, 2005
Where's the sanity??
Not only do we live in corrupt times, but I'm astounded at the way that Americans just gently brush off this administration as though "it's okay because we didn't vote in the other guy..."
We have an inept FEMA system that has been bastardized into the equally inept Department of Homeland Security, a President who thinks the war on pornography is more important than the war on gas prices or the rebuilding of the southern states....
We have corrupted officials on both sides of the aisle - and this is why the likes of DeLay and Rove haven't been flushed out -- because it's widely regarded that *every* (count them) every politician has their hands in some sort of crap that is a flag, an ethics violation or a criminal offense..
No bother, no worry -- I just didn't vote for the other guy...
Well -- Americans better see pretty darn soon just how screwed up we are.. I don't give a rats ass if it has anything to do with Katrina or Rita - it matters that we have an ineptness when it comes to administering this country.. I don't care if it's a Republican or a Democratic issue.. Our country is slowly being eroded away in ways we cannot even begin to fathom..
All the while we have a lot of companies that are profiting hand over fist - we're abandoning those that have nothing.. We're invading countries under false pretenses and nobody really seems to care.. They don't care because they are being deceived - each and every single day by this administration and those that purport to be reporting the news..
The media giants and radio pundits that are continually spewing their wide range of hate and animosity -- be forewarned: you're as much to blame as anyone.. New Orleans was supposed to be our wake-up call ... it turned out to be nothing more than a snooze alarm....
I'm glad in a way - because we're going to get what's coming to us.. The longer we want to turn a blind eye to it -- the harder we're going to fall because the ladder is already giving way.. A lot of people can see it -- but "what the heck," it makes for a good news story......
We have an inept FEMA system that has been bastardized into the equally inept Department of Homeland Security, a President who thinks the war on pornography is more important than the war on gas prices or the rebuilding of the southern states....
We have corrupted officials on both sides of the aisle - and this is why the likes of DeLay and Rove haven't been flushed out -- because it's widely regarded that *every* (count them) every politician has their hands in some sort of crap that is a flag, an ethics violation or a criminal offense..
No bother, no worry -- I just didn't vote for the other guy...
Well -- Americans better see pretty darn soon just how screwed up we are.. I don't give a rats ass if it has anything to do with Katrina or Rita - it matters that we have an ineptness when it comes to administering this country.. I don't care if it's a Republican or a Democratic issue.. Our country is slowly being eroded away in ways we cannot even begin to fathom..
All the while we have a lot of companies that are profiting hand over fist - we're abandoning those that have nothing.. We're invading countries under false pretenses and nobody really seems to care.. They don't care because they are being deceived - each and every single day by this administration and those that purport to be reporting the news..
The media giants and radio pundits that are continually spewing their wide range of hate and animosity -- be forewarned: you're as much to blame as anyone.. New Orleans was supposed to be our wake-up call ... it turned out to be nothing more than a snooze alarm....
I'm glad in a way - because we're going to get what's coming to us.. The longer we want to turn a blind eye to it -- the harder we're going to fall because the ladder is already giving way.. A lot of people can see it -- but "what the heck," it makes for a good news story......
Saturday, August 20, 2005
Oblivion
Further proof that this administration had no idea what they were getting into:
U.S. concedes ground to Islamists on Iraqi law
This article really tells us a lot of things:
-The US pressured the newly formed Iraqi government to pass a Constitution as quickly as possible ....
-The US wanted to enforce "equal rights" and democracy for the Iraqi people ....
-That the Iraqi people believe their religion is more important than a Constitution....
There's more to this story than is actually understood.. But it clearly outlines that the Bush administration is diving head first into a lame-duck term for their 2nd 4-year excursion.. And this pisses me off to no end..
What upsets me more is the fact that American lives are at stake here.. I'm not oblivious to the fact that the Iraqi people are experiencing hardships under a ruthless dictator.. The problem is - is the fact that there are A LOT of ruthless dictators through out the world -- AND -- their people are a lot worse off than the folks in Iraq were under Saddam..
Yes - the painting is starting to flake off the walls..
But then I heard this week that Americans generally do not care about the press slanted one way or the other.. They buy into the "Fox hype" and paint the rest of the media as being the "liberal bias.." That's why shows like Hannity, Rush, and others are still as popular as ever..
And that's sad really..
Because I don't subscribe to every singular thing that Air America and other liberal outlets crank out.. In fact, I do consider myself to be educated enough to be able to sort through the rhetoric and make an informed decision on a given issue given the fact that the talking heads and liberal bias are in the middle of a major informational war right now..
Unfortunately - our troops, our friends, our family, our spouses are caught in the cross-fire..
........
In other news -- Bush still connects 9/11 to Iraq..
This is another curve ball to try and sway public opinion that the war was just in Iraq.. That we were keeping terrorists at bay by attacking and destroying the infrastructure of Iraq.. Well ... the military just announced that they plan on being in Iraq for another 4 years.. So - when Bush mentions Iraq and 9/11 in the same thought -- Americans will automatically assume that Saddam had a hand in 9/11..
Even though if you examine Bush's statement, he says that by going into Iraq ... we are preventing another 9/11....... Which obviously isn't the same thing -- but the speech is designed to continually mention Iraq and 9/11 within the same thought pattern..
It's almost subliminal..
...and what's scary is that most American's buy into it -- every ..... single ..... time.....
But let's look at the things that have fallen on the wayside:
-Rove
-Roberts
-Bolton
-Ohio
-gas prices
It's convenient to taint the news cycle -- but today's media is hunkered down into some sort of school-yard brawl right now, they've forgotten how to report -- which should be their first job.. They say they are -- except there is an inclusion of bias that satisfies the powers controlling the strings......
...and that's why America remains oblivious...
U.S. concedes ground to Islamists on Iraqi law
This article really tells us a lot of things:
-The US pressured the newly formed Iraqi government to pass a Constitution as quickly as possible ....
-The US wanted to enforce "equal rights" and democracy for the Iraqi people ....
-That the Iraqi people believe their religion is more important than a Constitution....
There's more to this story than is actually understood.. But it clearly outlines that the Bush administration is diving head first into a lame-duck term for their 2nd 4-year excursion.. And this pisses me off to no end..
What upsets me more is the fact that American lives are at stake here.. I'm not oblivious to the fact that the Iraqi people are experiencing hardships under a ruthless dictator.. The problem is - is the fact that there are A LOT of ruthless dictators through out the world -- AND -- their people are a lot worse off than the folks in Iraq were under Saddam..
Yes - the painting is starting to flake off the walls..
But then I heard this week that Americans generally do not care about the press slanted one way or the other.. They buy into the "Fox hype" and paint the rest of the media as being the "liberal bias.." That's why shows like Hannity, Rush, and others are still as popular as ever..
And that's sad really..
Because I don't subscribe to every singular thing that Air America and other liberal outlets crank out.. In fact, I do consider myself to be educated enough to be able to sort through the rhetoric and make an informed decision on a given issue given the fact that the talking heads and liberal bias are in the middle of a major informational war right now..
Unfortunately - our troops, our friends, our family, our spouses are caught in the cross-fire..
........
In other news -- Bush still connects 9/11 to Iraq..
This is another curve ball to try and sway public opinion that the war was just in Iraq.. That we were keeping terrorists at bay by attacking and destroying the infrastructure of Iraq.. Well ... the military just announced that they plan on being in Iraq for another 4 years.. So - when Bush mentions Iraq and 9/11 in the same thought -- Americans will automatically assume that Saddam had a hand in 9/11..
Even though if you examine Bush's statement, he says that by going into Iraq ... we are preventing another 9/11....... Which obviously isn't the same thing -- but the speech is designed to continually mention Iraq and 9/11 within the same thought pattern..
It's almost subliminal..
...and what's scary is that most American's buy into it -- every ..... single ..... time.....
But let's look at the things that have fallen on the wayside:
-Rove
-Roberts
-Bolton
-Ohio
-gas prices
It's convenient to taint the news cycle -- but today's media is hunkered down into some sort of school-yard brawl right now, they've forgotten how to report -- which should be their first job.. They say they are -- except there is an inclusion of bias that satisfies the powers controlling the strings......
...and that's why America remains oblivious...
Wednesday, July 20, 2005
Not surprised...
All I've been hearing about is how the Supreme Court is so incredibly liberal..
All of the fingers point squarely on Ruth Bader Ginsberg..
I cannot begin to tell you how many times I've heard all of the talk shows saying that Bush needs to appoint someone just like how Clinton appointed Ruth.. That for some reason, there needs to be balance in the highest court of the land..
Okay..
If this were true, then why did Orin Hatch, the Senate Republican and Chairman of the Judiciary Committee warned then President Clinton to avoid naming a nominee that would face a tough political battle?? Those names that Senator Hatch offered were none other than Ruth .... Bader .... Ginsberg..... (as well as Stephen Breyer...)
This afternoon on CNN Senator Hatch hailed the Democrats to effectively accept Bush's recommendation and set aside the political obstructions that we faced with the latest rounds of confirmations..
If this isn't a shining example of political double talk - then I don't know what it is..
I do know this though, it's not limited to one party or the other.. I know the democrats do this as well, I know the Conservative and Liberal talkshows all slant accordingly to satisfy their contingency..
I just don't like it..
I don't care for it..
I hate it..
Politics has been bastardized into one fallen hypocritical disaster after another.. Just as the Liberal talkshows are holding Bush's feet to the fire about Karl Rove, the Conservative talkshows were just as critical when Clinton had oral sex in the Oval Office.
Yup - cuts both ways..
What was also realized today was one of the radio hosts I listened to said that we (liberals) have to win back the house and senate.. Ironically it's the same speech that conservatives were waiving when the likes of Newt Gingrich were in office.. Politics hasn't really evolved much.. It remains today, just as it did long ago..
That alone bothers me plenty..
Let alone how the rest of the world thinks we're total fuck-ups..
When we venture to our voting precincts to cast our one vote towards the betterment of society, there is an expectation that most people that *can* vote, don't vote.. And who can really blame them?? When there's the double-speak, the hypocrisy, the irresponsible, and flagrant disregard for the law, rules and ethics --- how can anyone realistically expect a better than majority turnout at our elections when crap like this goes on daily??
If politicians were to ever try to apply for a job somewhere - there is a thing called integrity that most employers look for.. And for some really bizarre reason - most everyone in politics lacks this attribute..
*ughs* - I should post more, but I'm tired..
All of the fingers point squarely on Ruth Bader Ginsberg..
I cannot begin to tell you how many times I've heard all of the talk shows saying that Bush needs to appoint someone just like how Clinton appointed Ruth.. That for some reason, there needs to be balance in the highest court of the land..
Okay..
If this were true, then why did Orin Hatch, the Senate Republican and Chairman of the Judiciary Committee warned then President Clinton to avoid naming a nominee that would face a tough political battle?? Those names that Senator Hatch offered were none other than Ruth .... Bader .... Ginsberg..... (as well as Stephen Breyer...)
This afternoon on CNN Senator Hatch hailed the Democrats to effectively accept Bush's recommendation and set aside the political obstructions that we faced with the latest rounds of confirmations..
If this isn't a shining example of political double talk - then I don't know what it is..
I do know this though, it's not limited to one party or the other.. I know the democrats do this as well, I know the Conservative and Liberal talkshows all slant accordingly to satisfy their contingency..
I just don't like it..
I don't care for it..
I hate it..
Politics has been bastardized into one fallen hypocritical disaster after another.. Just as the Liberal talkshows are holding Bush's feet to the fire about Karl Rove, the Conservative talkshows were just as critical when Clinton had oral sex in the Oval Office.
Yup - cuts both ways..
What was also realized today was one of the radio hosts I listened to said that we (liberals) have to win back the house and senate.. Ironically it's the same speech that conservatives were waiving when the likes of Newt Gingrich were in office.. Politics hasn't really evolved much.. It remains today, just as it did long ago..
That alone bothers me plenty..
Let alone how the rest of the world thinks we're total fuck-ups..
When we venture to our voting precincts to cast our one vote towards the betterment of society, there is an expectation that most people that *can* vote, don't vote.. And who can really blame them?? When there's the double-speak, the hypocrisy, the irresponsible, and flagrant disregard for the law, rules and ethics --- how can anyone realistically expect a better than majority turnout at our elections when crap like this goes on daily??
If politicians were to ever try to apply for a job somewhere - there is a thing called integrity that most employers look for.. And for some really bizarre reason - most everyone in politics lacks this attribute..
*ughs* - I should post more, but I'm tired..
Monday, July 18, 2005
raising the bar ... again
Okay – as everyone is realizing … Bush is raising the bar…
I listened to AirAmerica throughout the day when they had Joseph Wilson on. Wow. All I can say is that the answers he offered made sense – unlike the answers offered by the talking heads of the right.
Now as everyone knows, Bush has revised his position stating that anyone who commits a CRIME will now be kicked out of the White House. It’s no longer at the “anyone who is involved” as it was earlier stated…
Even as all of the AirAmerica talkies were getting their panties in a wad – this is nothing new for this administration. It’s status quo. In fact, it’s come to be expected. Moreover, it goes along with the spirit of the Downing Street Memos – make the facts fit.
This administration has lost more credibility than people realize.
… or maybe it’s a matter of people just not caring.
I listened to AirAmerica throughout the day when they had Joseph Wilson on. Wow. All I can say is that the answers he offered made sense – unlike the answers offered by the talking heads of the right.
Now as everyone knows, Bush has revised his position stating that anyone who commits a CRIME will now be kicked out of the White House. It’s no longer at the “anyone who is involved” as it was earlier stated…
Even as all of the AirAmerica talkies were getting their panties in a wad – this is nothing new for this administration. It’s status quo. In fact, it’s come to be expected. Moreover, it goes along with the spirit of the Downing Street Memos – make the facts fit.
This administration has lost more credibility than people realize.
… or maybe it’s a matter of people just not caring.
Friday, June 24, 2005
The P.C. Debacle...
Oh – now it’s time for being politically correct…
It appears when Dick Durbin makes a reference to Gitmo as some sort of gulag – it’s horrifying. Yet when Rove complains that Democrats want terrorists to get therapy – that’s somehow okay..
Several years ago (back in the ol’ college days) – I recall having a discussion over the ramifications of having a politically correct society.. In that discussion – it was revealed that no matter what was said or done, it was a certainty that it would royally piss off *someone* regardless of how mundane or unequivocal the comment was crafted..
I was reading a local story this morning – about some sort of negative reference to James Dobson and Focus on the Family.. The chief complaint was that some group drew parallels of Dobson and his group to an Americanized version of the Taliban.. The group issued an apology, there were repercussions and the damage was done..
Wow..
What on earth has changed our ability to have independent thoughts, disagreements and criticisms?? Contrary to what a lot of people think, this is *not* a republican or democrat issue.. It’s not a Christian versus Islamic versus Muslim.. It’s the basis of having the freedom to compare Bush to whomever anyone wants to.. It’s the basis of calling Clinton any given name in the book.. It’s the basis to say when you’re pissed off or when you agree with someone..
Inflammatory?? Absolutely.. It can be.. So when the Republicans call for Durbin to apologize, and the Democrats call for Rove to resign – it’s leading us back to a sandbox squabble between infants.. But it doesn’t stop with politicians, everyone is doing it.. (I’ll throw myself into that mix as well..)
This vicious cycle of tit for tat is excruciating.. The mud-slinging capabilities by both sides are obvious, apparent and increasing on an continual basis..
Let’s face it: we have a lot of fucking upset people in the world..
But what if the complaints actually founded on a basis of truth?? Despite the rhetoric or other substantive comments made to draw conclusions or illustrations from the incorrigibles throughout history, what if there is a basis of fact in the parallel or the comparison?? Are we so polarized that we cannot see the truth for what it is??
Absolutely..
Whenever something major happens, or when someone says something – don’t we almost always seek out to hear what others are saying about it?? I’ve listened to Rush.. I’ve listened to Air America.. O’Reily, Hannity, Savage, Franken, Garafallo.. Any given topic – they churn out a series of talking points.. Those little niblets which causes us to jump on the bandwagon or shake our pointed finger..
But what everyone does – and I don’t care if this is a personality, a movie star, a columnist or a politician – is that they take the nibblet that is important for their argument and they run with it.. The substantive nature of the issue becomes fragmented and further distorted..
So when Hannity says that liberals are scum, is he right?? No.. When Garafalo banters of whether conservatives are pigs, is she right?? No.. They are fanning the flames to get people riled up for the causes that matter to them, their constituents, their sponsors, their crowd.. How about when Durbin refers to Gitmo as a nazi camp??
Does it offend me personally?? No.. I studied history – I draw upon unpopular conclusions all the time.. And you know what – I don’t care.. True historians leave bias from their findings.. True historians allow readers to draw their own conclusions based on the findings of the evidence.. True historians consult multiple sources that can accurately paint a true and responsible picture of a given topic..
Does Gitmo really resemble a gulag?? I don’t know.. I certainly do not believe the people who have been reporting it so far.. I certainly do not trust the administration because they are constantly reversing, traversing, readjusting, realigning, ultimately distorting the facts of any given subject.. I don’t trust the Dems for that matter either.. I certainly do not trust the press because they have a marketability bias.. ”That which sells, is printed or aired..”
There’s no real understanding of an event unless you have the capability of seeing it first hand.. Unless there are multiple sources that can paint a wide-breadth of the incident in question – then there’s no way to juxtapose an appropriate perception of the event.. Finding trusting, reliable sources in this day and age is next to impossible..
We shouldn’t be afraid to draw unpopular, politically incorrect parallels to anyone or anything – regardless of how popular, how important or how right or wrong consensus believes.. I don’t care.. Yet despite the parallels me, or anyone might draw, will be scrutinized and cast in an unpopular light.. Sometimes the truth sucks.. Slavery sucked.. The Nazis sucked.. Bin Laden sucks..
But there are some mildly important lessons buried in these areas.. One cannot fathom just how long slavery and rights for all Americans have gone this long, this unabated throughout our history.. One can’t imagine how incredibly talented of a speaker Hitler was.. One can’t imagine what it took to mastermind the 9/11 hijackings, the dedication and the process it took to make it happen..
History sucks..
But we can learn..
And this is what the American people has to realize at some point..
We can learn that the oppression of people is wrong.. We can learn to watch for those people who can stir hatred into a carefully woven righteous blanket that appeals to a segment of people.. We can learn that people can be motivated to die for a cause they believe in – when we have it within our capability to thwart such behavior if we just listen..
But we live in a society where these lessons are buried under a blanket of security and politically correctness.. I’m not saying we shouldn’t be sensitive, but we can’t forgo these important lessons if we can’t say what they are, how they are and what they mean.. The truth has to be correct; regardless of who it offends..
It appears when Dick Durbin makes a reference to Gitmo as some sort of gulag – it’s horrifying. Yet when Rove complains that Democrats want terrorists to get therapy – that’s somehow okay..
Several years ago (back in the ol’ college days) – I recall having a discussion over the ramifications of having a politically correct society.. In that discussion – it was revealed that no matter what was said or done, it was a certainty that it would royally piss off *someone* regardless of how mundane or unequivocal the comment was crafted..
I was reading a local story this morning – about some sort of negative reference to James Dobson and Focus on the Family.. The chief complaint was that some group drew parallels of Dobson and his group to an Americanized version of the Taliban.. The group issued an apology, there were repercussions and the damage was done..
Wow..
What on earth has changed our ability to have independent thoughts, disagreements and criticisms?? Contrary to what a lot of people think, this is *not* a republican or democrat issue.. It’s not a Christian versus Islamic versus Muslim.. It’s the basis of having the freedom to compare Bush to whomever anyone wants to.. It’s the basis of calling Clinton any given name in the book.. It’s the basis to say when you’re pissed off or when you agree with someone..
Inflammatory?? Absolutely.. It can be.. So when the Republicans call for Durbin to apologize, and the Democrats call for Rove to resign – it’s leading us back to a sandbox squabble between infants.. But it doesn’t stop with politicians, everyone is doing it.. (I’ll throw myself into that mix as well..)
This vicious cycle of tit for tat is excruciating.. The mud-slinging capabilities by both sides are obvious, apparent and increasing on an continual basis..
Let’s face it: we have a lot of fucking upset people in the world..
But what if the complaints actually founded on a basis of truth?? Despite the rhetoric or other substantive comments made to draw conclusions or illustrations from the incorrigibles throughout history, what if there is a basis of fact in the parallel or the comparison?? Are we so polarized that we cannot see the truth for what it is??
Absolutely..
Whenever something major happens, or when someone says something – don’t we almost always seek out to hear what others are saying about it?? I’ve listened to Rush.. I’ve listened to Air America.. O’Reily, Hannity, Savage, Franken, Garafallo.. Any given topic – they churn out a series of talking points.. Those little niblets which causes us to jump on the bandwagon or shake our pointed finger..
But what everyone does – and I don’t care if this is a personality, a movie star, a columnist or a politician – is that they take the nibblet that is important for their argument and they run with it.. The substantive nature of the issue becomes fragmented and further distorted..
So when Hannity says that liberals are scum, is he right?? No.. When Garafalo banters of whether conservatives are pigs, is she right?? No.. They are fanning the flames to get people riled up for the causes that matter to them, their constituents, their sponsors, their crowd.. How about when Durbin refers to Gitmo as a nazi camp??
Does it offend me personally?? No.. I studied history – I draw upon unpopular conclusions all the time.. And you know what – I don’t care.. True historians leave bias from their findings.. True historians allow readers to draw their own conclusions based on the findings of the evidence.. True historians consult multiple sources that can accurately paint a true and responsible picture of a given topic..
Does Gitmo really resemble a gulag?? I don’t know.. I certainly do not believe the people who have been reporting it so far.. I certainly do not trust the administration because they are constantly reversing, traversing, readjusting, realigning, ultimately distorting the facts of any given subject.. I don’t trust the Dems for that matter either.. I certainly do not trust the press because they have a marketability bias.. ”That which sells, is printed or aired..”
There’s no real understanding of an event unless you have the capability of seeing it first hand.. Unless there are multiple sources that can paint a wide-breadth of the incident in question – then there’s no way to juxtapose an appropriate perception of the event.. Finding trusting, reliable sources in this day and age is next to impossible..
We shouldn’t be afraid to draw unpopular, politically incorrect parallels to anyone or anything – regardless of how popular, how important or how right or wrong consensus believes.. I don’t care.. Yet despite the parallels me, or anyone might draw, will be scrutinized and cast in an unpopular light.. Sometimes the truth sucks.. Slavery sucked.. The Nazis sucked.. Bin Laden sucks..
But there are some mildly important lessons buried in these areas.. One cannot fathom just how long slavery and rights for all Americans have gone this long, this unabated throughout our history.. One can’t imagine how incredibly talented of a speaker Hitler was.. One can’t imagine what it took to mastermind the 9/11 hijackings, the dedication and the process it took to make it happen..
History sucks..
But we can learn..
And this is what the American people has to realize at some point..
We can learn that the oppression of people is wrong.. We can learn to watch for those people who can stir hatred into a carefully woven righteous blanket that appeals to a segment of people.. We can learn that people can be motivated to die for a cause they believe in – when we have it within our capability to thwart such behavior if we just listen..
But we live in a society where these lessons are buried under a blanket of security and politically correctness.. I’m not saying we shouldn’t be sensitive, but we can’t forgo these important lessons if we can’t say what they are, how they are and what they mean.. The truth has to be correct; regardless of who it offends..
Tuesday, May 24, 2005
Who blinked?
On my way home last night – the Majority Report was covering the news conferences live that dealt with the apparent compromise between Democrats and Republicans over the use of filibusters and the “nuclear option..” So after I got settled in for the night, I watched both Reid and Frist give their viewpoints on what happened with the proposed settlement. At one point they basically contradicted each other; saying almost the opposite of the other: Reid said they would still filibuster if they wanted, Frist said they wouldn’t.
(Later it was identified that only two nominees would still have the filibuster in effect.)
Now I can’t really say that the news is all that surprising – but the muck of it is – I’m not sure anything was exactly solved. I like the fact that you had Senators that were telling the White House to back off – and to act a bit more responsibly with their nominees, yet I’m reminded exactly how irresponsible this Administration is and how fruitless it would be to shake a finger at them and tell them no.
Bush isn’t going to be intimidated by this, c’mon.
After hearing Reid speak last night – I really felt that the Democrats won – but after thinking about it a great deal, I really don’t think that happened. It gave way to the “up or down” votes that the Republicans wanted. Why do the Reds want that?? Because they know they have the votes to get their chosen ones confirmed.
Yet if you hear the Blues – they are saying that they still reserve the right to filibuster if they choose.
So the question I have is: ”Who blinked??”
Or rather: ”Who caved??”
Both sides are claiming defeat and victory – yet considering that the Republicans ultimately got what they wanted is (in my eyes) prize they wanted – and eventually got.
Was it the cots that were being brought in for the extended session??
Or was it seemingly innocuous, “unannounced” visit by Justice Rehnquist to the Senate that caused the spur to find resolve in this? Renquist’s health only highlights the battle for the Supreme Court that will surely happen during Bush’s tenure.
I’m not fond of the white flag mentality – yet if there was some deeper deal struck that caused the peace, it’s my hope that it is fair for everyone. I hope it’s responsible and conscionable. I’m sick of the pandering, I’m sick of the “gotta have it my way” approach that this administration is stuck on and I’m sick of this political stick and carrot that we live by.
Over 90% of Bush’s nominees were approved.
Meaning that over 90% of the names he put up for appointments and nominees were approved by the Democrats.
Still want to shove it in our face that the Democrats are being unfair during this process? Knowing a little bit about Parliamentary procedure – the Republicans should be eternally grateful that the Democrats have backed down. The President should be a bit more receptive when there are issues with the names he’s putting out there.
He should do the responsible thing, the “let’s get along” thing, and say – “I’ll meet you half way in the road, let’s work this out.”
Problem being: this just isn’t going to happen with this Administration.
So we’ll be going back to “business as usual” and I hope we all don’t get raped because of it.
Coming up:
- Scary provisions in the new Patriot act
- Clear Skies Act isn’t what it’s cracked up to be
- Stem Cell Research will be voted on – and subsequently vetoed by George Bush
(Later it was identified that only two nominees would still have the filibuster in effect.)
Now I can’t really say that the news is all that surprising – but the muck of it is – I’m not sure anything was exactly solved. I like the fact that you had Senators that were telling the White House to back off – and to act a bit more responsibly with their nominees, yet I’m reminded exactly how irresponsible this Administration is and how fruitless it would be to shake a finger at them and tell them no.
Bush isn’t going to be intimidated by this, c’mon.
After hearing Reid speak last night – I really felt that the Democrats won – but after thinking about it a great deal, I really don’t think that happened. It gave way to the “up or down” votes that the Republicans wanted. Why do the Reds want that?? Because they know they have the votes to get their chosen ones confirmed.
Yet if you hear the Blues – they are saying that they still reserve the right to filibuster if they choose.
So the question I have is: ”Who blinked??”
Or rather: ”Who caved??”
Both sides are claiming defeat and victory – yet considering that the Republicans ultimately got what they wanted is (in my eyes) prize they wanted – and eventually got.
Was it the cots that were being brought in for the extended session??
Or was it seemingly innocuous, “unannounced” visit by Justice Rehnquist to the Senate that caused the spur to find resolve in this? Renquist’s health only highlights the battle for the Supreme Court that will surely happen during Bush’s tenure.
I’m not fond of the white flag mentality – yet if there was some deeper deal struck that caused the peace, it’s my hope that it is fair for everyone. I hope it’s responsible and conscionable. I’m sick of the pandering, I’m sick of the “gotta have it my way” approach that this administration is stuck on and I’m sick of this political stick and carrot that we live by.
Over 90% of Bush’s nominees were approved.
Meaning that over 90% of the names he put up for appointments and nominees were approved by the Democrats.
Still want to shove it in our face that the Democrats are being unfair during this process? Knowing a little bit about Parliamentary procedure – the Republicans should be eternally grateful that the Democrats have backed down. The President should be a bit more receptive when there are issues with the names he’s putting out there.
He should do the responsible thing, the “let’s get along” thing, and say – “I’ll meet you half way in the road, let’s work this out.”
Problem being: this just isn’t going to happen with this Administration.
So we’ll be going back to “business as usual” and I hope we all don’t get raped because of it.
Coming up:
- Scary provisions in the new Patriot act
- Clear Skies Act isn’t what it’s cracked up to be
- Stem Cell Research will be voted on – and subsequently vetoed by George Bush
Sunday, May 22, 2005
The Newsweek Gaffe
This whole Newsweek issue has really made me laugh not because of what was alleged in the article – but the subsequent hypocrisy by OUR government by saying that it gives our country a bad reputation.
Holy Smokes, Batman – please say it’s not true!! America is getting a black eye from a story that was leaked to a major magazine alleging that members of our military have desecrated the Koran by flushing it down a toilet during an interrogation??
What about going to war under false pretenses??
What about LYING to the people of the United States about WMD??
What about LYING to the leaders of the WORLD about WMD??
What about removing a ruthless dictator because of what we perceived??
What about the countless other civil wars, ethnic cleansings, and other atrocities being committed in other nations, under other ruthless dictators??
Black eye syndrome??
Faulty intelligence??
If the Newsweek article was factually incorrect – then they should issue a correction.. But even as they retracted the story on the basis that they made a mistake – we have an administration that admitted that they too acted on faulty intelligence, flawed information when they sent countless thousands to their graves, and tipped the balance of power in an unstable region..
I’m tired of the Bush rhetoric that Saddam was an evil person who needed to be removed from power.. Yes, I get that.. But let’s not forget that in addition to those countries going under civil wars, we have two “axis of evil” partners that have slid unscathed under our intelligence radars, Mr. President..
North Korea and Iran have become legitimate power brokers under your watch.. Furthermore, let’s not forget that this administration has placed a time bomb in the Middle East in the form of Iraq.. Set aside the insurgents, set aside the security issues and other infra-structure related problems that remain today (some two years after our initial invasion); I’m referring to the elections that were held earlier in the year..
Once again, everyone seems to be forgetting about the winners of the Iraqi election and the purported connections to Iran..
It seems as though the whole “image” issue is the least of our worries….
So if anyone is TRULY interested in improving our image – let’s start at the top and work our way down.. Let’s consider that whenever someone important is captured, they are being interrogated in countries that permit torture – so we don’t have to..
How convenient..
Wash our hands – someone else did the torture, we gained the information.. Remarkable!!
It’s not going to be until everyone wakes up and realizes that the image of the US has been mortally wounded since the invasion of Iraq.. Were we freeing the oppressed people of Iraq, sure.. Were we hunting those pesky WMDs?? Absolutely.. Are the Iraqi people glad we’re still there?? Um, no.. Were any links to Iraq and WMD ever found?? Erm, no, sorry..
Talk about a stain to wear..
So..
Did Newsweek add fuel to the fire?? Perhaps.. Did they do something wrong?? If it was factually incorrect – yes.. If they were fed the information as a means to control what they right about – absolutely not.. I fear the latter is holding more water and truth these days..
When we live in a society where the Administration can pay off media to write to their advantage, we’re dealing with governmental propaganda.. Further, we’re no better off than the former Soviet Union or those that have endured the atrocities under Saddam Hussein.. Propaganda – any propaganda is wrong..
I don’t care if it’s democrat
I don’t care if it’s republican..
There, I said it..
When we diminish the available information into some sort of sick twisted monstrosity – yeah, I’m gonna get a little bent out of shape.. When it’s funded, fueled, and subsequently catered to a segment of the populous: this is when it should be made illegal..
I’m not against free speech..
I’m against distorted news reporting..
I’m for opinions, editorials, and independent thoughts carefully separated from the news stories I read, hear or watch.. If it’s factual, it should be reported without opinion, without bias, without slant, slander, or manipulation.. I don’t care if you’re Air America or Fox News..
It’s got to stop..
Then maybe we can finally make educated decisions of what is best for our place in the world and not be succumbed by the wishes of a selected few.. Again – I have no care if it’s a red or blue issue.. I care about integrity, I care about the truth, and I care about honesty.. Our founding fathers had no intention to somehow approve of such ostentatious behavior by any party..
It’s gotta start somewhere..
If Newsweek got it right – hang in there.. If they were lied to, so as to set them in a trap that would eventually dirty their news – then I really hope those that engineered that project gets what’s coming to them.. If Newsweek reported an outright lie – shut them down..
Fox News?? You’re next..
Fair and balanced really does need to be held to the same standards, don’t they??
Holy Smokes, Batman – please say it’s not true!! America is getting a black eye from a story that was leaked to a major magazine alleging that members of our military have desecrated the Koran by flushing it down a toilet during an interrogation??
What about going to war under false pretenses??
What about LYING to the people of the United States about WMD??
What about LYING to the leaders of the WORLD about WMD??
What about removing a ruthless dictator because of what we perceived??
What about the countless other civil wars, ethnic cleansings, and other atrocities being committed in other nations, under other ruthless dictators??
Black eye syndrome??
Faulty intelligence??
If the Newsweek article was factually incorrect – then they should issue a correction.. But even as they retracted the story on the basis that they made a mistake – we have an administration that admitted that they too acted on faulty intelligence, flawed information when they sent countless thousands to their graves, and tipped the balance of power in an unstable region..
I’m tired of the Bush rhetoric that Saddam was an evil person who needed to be removed from power.. Yes, I get that.. But let’s not forget that in addition to those countries going under civil wars, we have two “axis of evil” partners that have slid unscathed under our intelligence radars, Mr. President..
North Korea and Iran have become legitimate power brokers under your watch.. Furthermore, let’s not forget that this administration has placed a time bomb in the Middle East in the form of Iraq.. Set aside the insurgents, set aside the security issues and other infra-structure related problems that remain today (some two years after our initial invasion); I’m referring to the elections that were held earlier in the year..
Once again, everyone seems to be forgetting about the winners of the Iraqi election and the purported connections to Iran..
It seems as though the whole “image” issue is the least of our worries….
So if anyone is TRULY interested in improving our image – let’s start at the top and work our way down.. Let’s consider that whenever someone important is captured, they are being interrogated in countries that permit torture – so we don’t have to..
How convenient..
Wash our hands – someone else did the torture, we gained the information.. Remarkable!!
It’s not going to be until everyone wakes up and realizes that the image of the US has been mortally wounded since the invasion of Iraq.. Were we freeing the oppressed people of Iraq, sure.. Were we hunting those pesky WMDs?? Absolutely.. Are the Iraqi people glad we’re still there?? Um, no.. Were any links to Iraq and WMD ever found?? Erm, no, sorry..
Talk about a stain to wear..
So..
Did Newsweek add fuel to the fire?? Perhaps.. Did they do something wrong?? If it was factually incorrect – yes.. If they were fed the information as a means to control what they right about – absolutely not.. I fear the latter is holding more water and truth these days..
When we live in a society where the Administration can pay off media to write to their advantage, we’re dealing with governmental propaganda.. Further, we’re no better off than the former Soviet Union or those that have endured the atrocities under Saddam Hussein.. Propaganda – any propaganda is wrong..
I don’t care if it’s democrat
I don’t care if it’s republican..
There, I said it..
When we diminish the available information into some sort of sick twisted monstrosity – yeah, I’m gonna get a little bent out of shape.. When it’s funded, fueled, and subsequently catered to a segment of the populous: this is when it should be made illegal..
I’m not against free speech..
I’m against distorted news reporting..
I’m for opinions, editorials, and independent thoughts carefully separated from the news stories I read, hear or watch.. If it’s factual, it should be reported without opinion, without bias, without slant, slander, or manipulation.. I don’t care if you’re Air America or Fox News..
It’s got to stop..
Then maybe we can finally make educated decisions of what is best for our place in the world and not be succumbed by the wishes of a selected few.. Again – I have no care if it’s a red or blue issue.. I care about integrity, I care about the truth, and I care about honesty.. Our founding fathers had no intention to somehow approve of such ostentatious behavior by any party..
It’s gotta start somewhere..
If Newsweek got it right – hang in there.. If they were lied to, so as to set them in a trap that would eventually dirty their news – then I really hope those that engineered that project gets what’s coming to them.. If Newsweek reported an outright lie – shut them down..
Fox News?? You’re next..
Fair and balanced really does need to be held to the same standards, don’t they??
Tuesday, April 26, 2005
News & Tidbits
No WMD connection to Syria
Hardly a shock really.. Seriously..
Iran?? Saudi Arabia perhaps??
Everyone is SO convinced that Saddam had WMD, if.... and this is again the fruitless attempt at TRYING to remain objective in this whole fucking mess...... *if* there were WMD, they aren't in Syria.. They aren't in Iran.. Anyone with a brain larger than a peanut (apologies to Jimmy Carter) realizes that those weapons are probably in some very distant nation, so far away from all eyes to see....
Which is a problem when you're dealing with such a myopic view of the world.......
Bolton facing issues
Anyone who isn't diplomatic, shouldn't be a diplomat... And if Colin Powell thinks you're going to be a fuck up -- damn, doesn't look good on your resume pal..
Social Security
War between the Dems and the Repubs starting up again.. *yawn* Wake me in 2006, will ya'??
Condi threatening Putin
Bush sent Condoleeza over to Russia to air concerns about how Putin and his party were alarming this administration into some sort of totalitarian regime??
Isn't that what DeLay and other conservatives are doing with their veiled threats about the Justices that need to be replaced and the subsequent threats about replacing the filibuster rules just to satisfy those that they want to seat ... well, we're sounding more communistic each day..
Freedom of Expression or Avoiding a potential conflict...
I heard an Air America story on the way home tonight about some people that were turned away at a Bush rally because they had signs that were not consistent with the majority: i.e. protestors.. The Majority Report was lambasting this administration and the Secret Service for intervening and removing these people who had signs of dissention about their respective point(s) of view.. (I have no idea what the signs said..)
Now..
I'm all in favor of Freedom of Expression, but I'm not in favor when that expression leads to a riot or altercation.. Differing opinions, fine.. Advertise them all you want.. Inciting, provoking or otherwise egging on a fight .... no.. When it may lead to arrests, damage or injury - at what point does Freedom of Expression become a threat to the security of the President?? Regardless if it's Clinton, Bush or someone else?? I think the Secret Service may act as they deem fit to insure a peaceful situation.. They are there to maintain order in whatever setting the President arrives.. That's their function.. I respect that because it's their lives on the line before Dubya's..
But what really got me thinking about the whole Freedom of Expression angle came from a newstory I saw today about how ABC is being threatened by Roger Murdoch and Fox for their portrayal of the smash hit: "American Idol".. Murdoch also owns the Fox News Channel - a seemingly conservative network destined to slant their biases as they see fit.....
Now that their credibility is being put to the fire - *yawns* - but seriously.. When we live at a time when there's the threat of potential lawsuits over the slanted bias of a slanted bias competition -- exactly what in the hell is going on?? I don't watch American Idol because I don't care who sings "My heart will go on" the prettiest.. A talent show; rather a slanted, biased talent show - will always be scandalous in nature..
It's the reality-show phenomenon that no one really understands..
It's the fact that networks are trying to score ratings.. To do so, they will put shows out there that will garner the best ratings for them.. Is it any wonder that there's so much grief after one of the finalists is "robbed" of their potential winnings??
Puh-leeeze....
What's really scary..
What really bothers me more than the "news story" of the "apparent threat from Fox" is the fact that American Idol is produced by the same folks that puts on Fox News.. Hannity and O'Reily all under the same umbrella.. What Murdoch has done with Fox is to be able to control programming - so as to continue to further his causes.. Fox News is the voice, American Idol would be the soul..
But when you look at the programming under Fox - there's a myriad of shows, all interwoven, cut from the same cookie cutter dough pattern that emerges.. It's a completely deceptive machine all controlled by the strings in the hierarchy of the Fox regime.. When that kind of bias is so prevalent, so under the radar, so seemingly invisible, it's remarkable, even a bit impressive that such manipulation was not only controlled, but planned to such a minute degree..
From it's news, it's programs, probably down to the products they endorse -- if it fits the agenda, it's rolled out for our consumption..
Scary isn't a word that doesn't penetrate the surface..
Horrifying..
Terrifying..
Unnerving..
Kinda reminds you of a certain administration's tactics, doesn't it??
Hardly a shock really.. Seriously..
Iran?? Saudi Arabia perhaps??
Everyone is SO convinced that Saddam had WMD, if.... and this is again the fruitless attempt at TRYING to remain objective in this whole fucking mess...... *if* there were WMD, they aren't in Syria.. They aren't in Iran.. Anyone with a brain larger than a peanut (apologies to Jimmy Carter) realizes that those weapons are probably in some very distant nation, so far away from all eyes to see....
Which is a problem when you're dealing with such a myopic view of the world.......
Bolton facing issues
Anyone who isn't diplomatic, shouldn't be a diplomat... And if Colin Powell thinks you're going to be a fuck up -- damn, doesn't look good on your resume pal..
Social Security
War between the Dems and the Repubs starting up again.. *yawn* Wake me in 2006, will ya'??
Condi threatening Putin
Bush sent Condoleeza over to Russia to air concerns about how Putin and his party were alarming this administration into some sort of totalitarian regime??
Isn't that what DeLay and other conservatives are doing with their veiled threats about the Justices that need to be replaced and the subsequent threats about replacing the filibuster rules just to satisfy those that they want to seat ... well, we're sounding more communistic each day..
Freedom of Expression or Avoiding a potential conflict...
I heard an Air America story on the way home tonight about some people that were turned away at a Bush rally because they had signs that were not consistent with the majority: i.e. protestors.. The Majority Report was lambasting this administration and the Secret Service for intervening and removing these people who had signs of dissention about their respective point(s) of view.. (I have no idea what the signs said..)
Now..
I'm all in favor of Freedom of Expression, but I'm not in favor when that expression leads to a riot or altercation.. Differing opinions, fine.. Advertise them all you want.. Inciting, provoking or otherwise egging on a fight .... no.. When it may lead to arrests, damage or injury - at what point does Freedom of Expression become a threat to the security of the President?? Regardless if it's Clinton, Bush or someone else?? I think the Secret Service may act as they deem fit to insure a peaceful situation.. They are there to maintain order in whatever setting the President arrives.. That's their function.. I respect that because it's their lives on the line before Dubya's..
But what really got me thinking about the whole Freedom of Expression angle came from a newstory I saw today about how ABC is being threatened by Roger Murdoch and Fox for their portrayal of the smash hit: "American Idol".. Murdoch also owns the Fox News Channel - a seemingly conservative network destined to slant their biases as they see fit.....
Now that their credibility is being put to the fire - *yawns* - but seriously.. When we live at a time when there's the threat of potential lawsuits over the slanted bias of a slanted bias competition -- exactly what in the hell is going on?? I don't watch American Idol because I don't care who sings "My heart will go on" the prettiest.. A talent show; rather a slanted, biased talent show - will always be scandalous in nature..
It's the reality-show phenomenon that no one really understands..
It's the fact that networks are trying to score ratings.. To do so, they will put shows out there that will garner the best ratings for them.. Is it any wonder that there's so much grief after one of the finalists is "robbed" of their potential winnings??
Puh-leeeze....
What's really scary..
What really bothers me more than the "news story" of the "apparent threat from Fox" is the fact that American Idol is produced by the same folks that puts on Fox News.. Hannity and O'Reily all under the same umbrella.. What Murdoch has done with Fox is to be able to control programming - so as to continue to further his causes.. Fox News is the voice, American Idol would be the soul..
But when you look at the programming under Fox - there's a myriad of shows, all interwoven, cut from the same cookie cutter dough pattern that emerges.. It's a completely deceptive machine all controlled by the strings in the hierarchy of the Fox regime.. When that kind of bias is so prevalent, so under the radar, so seemingly invisible, it's remarkable, even a bit impressive that such manipulation was not only controlled, but planned to such a minute degree..
From it's news, it's programs, probably down to the products they endorse -- if it fits the agenda, it's rolled out for our consumption..
Scary isn't a word that doesn't penetrate the surface..
Horrifying..
Terrifying..
Unnerving..
Kinda reminds you of a certain administration's tactics, doesn't it??
Wednesday, March 23, 2005
Tomato, tomahto... potato ... potahto.....
It represents the balance of the equation..
I don't care if your name is Rush..
I don't care if you're an Air America follower..
I don't care if you read the Economist or the Washington Post..
The equation is balanced somewhere in between..
There is no longer (if there ever was) a liberal bias in the media.. Instead, the media has been perverted to some distant relative.. It's unidentifiable.. It's no longer about content as much as it is about editorializing one's view in the world..
The Drudge Report went on a seemingly predictable diatribe about the upcoming HBO special on Air America.. Using such phrases as "witness the ugly business of media ambition" to describe the sullen part of what "liberal media" must be about.. One should talk so boldly, Matt.. Clearly anyone with enough braincells realizes that Drudge is the Republican puppet and will always remain as such..
Asserting himself as some sort of legitimate media organization is laughable at best, scary at worst..
But it's not as though liberals don't have a counter-weight of their own..
But this isn't the point of the rant today..
It's about truth ... or rather the lack thereof..
It's about the abandonment of moralistic coverage regardless of who occupies the White House.. There's a feeding frenzy of outlets scrambling for market share and profit margins - that the media, the press that we have relied on to give an impartial view of the news at hand - is being whored for one political juggernaut or another..
I haven't seen the Air America special -- but I'm looking forward to it.. I actually applaud them for being forthcoming and opening up a potential PR nightmare .... even if it's meant to open up new markets.. You don't see anything similar from Fox News or any of the other republican pundits because they have finally secured a foothold on the airwaves and publications through out the nation -- and they don't want to endanger that precarious position..
I'm not oblivious to the liberal slant on things.. I got my fill of Al Franken sounding completely distraught that there wasn't more mayhem and bloodshed over the recent Iraqi elections.. I know the left is as much to blame for their own political machine as the right side is..
But what we have is a nation that resides somewhere in between.. Instead of trying to gather people into their collective positions, both sides continue to polarize the landscape creating a tremendous amount of indifference and irrational justification for voting/supporting the policies they are..
What's more sad is the fact that if I have a moderate position: I'm boring.. No one wants middle of the road anymore even though it's probably represents the majority of how all Americans feel.. It's also not incredibly shocking to find statistics that will resonate that a figure well over 80% or higher does not believe totally or completely with the party they generally support..
It's the tug-of-war attitude that pisses me off the most.. Both sides are shaking the fence so hard, people are scurrying for cover right and left.. Even if they don't fully identify as republican or liberal, they are often left with no choice because the parties, the media and the pundits have shaved the middle road so much - there isn't much of a strip to stand on..
--If you're against the war, you're a liberal..
--If you're anti-gay, you're conservative..
--If there's no immediate crisis in social security, you're liberal..
--If you believe in Schiavo's rights -- you're conservative..
The list will go on and on..
Both sides will have a score card once you reach the end of the road and that will decide where you fall.. From there you're cast into the throngs of the various misfits that happen to reside on your side of the aisle..
I despise Drudge.. Yes I admit that I admire Air America.. That makes me a liberal.. It doesn't mean I'm happy about it.. I don't like a lot of the things liberals do - but I like them more than I like what the conservatives have done..
I'm a realist.. And whoever can paint the most accurate picture on any given issue - will generally have my support.. Anything less is smoke and mirrors.. Karl Rove, Al Franken, and everyone else on *both* sides of the aisle need to realize that America is somewhere in between..
Want to win in 2006, 2008??
Start thinking about those in the middle and quit being so incredibly decisive.. The nation is already split - and neither party is grasping that concept...
I don't care if your name is Rush..
I don't care if you're an Air America follower..
I don't care if you read the Economist or the Washington Post..
The equation is balanced somewhere in between..
There is no longer (if there ever was) a liberal bias in the media.. Instead, the media has been perverted to some distant relative.. It's unidentifiable.. It's no longer about content as much as it is about editorializing one's view in the world..
The Drudge Report went on a seemingly predictable diatribe about the upcoming HBO special on Air America.. Using such phrases as "witness the ugly business of media ambition" to describe the sullen part of what "liberal media" must be about.. One should talk so boldly, Matt.. Clearly anyone with enough braincells realizes that Drudge is the Republican puppet and will always remain as such..
Asserting himself as some sort of legitimate media organization is laughable at best, scary at worst..
But it's not as though liberals don't have a counter-weight of their own..
But this isn't the point of the rant today..
It's about truth ... or rather the lack thereof..
It's about the abandonment of moralistic coverage regardless of who occupies the White House.. There's a feeding frenzy of outlets scrambling for market share and profit margins - that the media, the press that we have relied on to give an impartial view of the news at hand - is being whored for one political juggernaut or another..
I haven't seen the Air America special -- but I'm looking forward to it.. I actually applaud them for being forthcoming and opening up a potential PR nightmare .... even if it's meant to open up new markets.. You don't see anything similar from Fox News or any of the other republican pundits because they have finally secured a foothold on the airwaves and publications through out the nation -- and they don't want to endanger that precarious position..
I'm not oblivious to the liberal slant on things.. I got my fill of Al Franken sounding completely distraught that there wasn't more mayhem and bloodshed over the recent Iraqi elections.. I know the left is as much to blame for their own political machine as the right side is..
But what we have is a nation that resides somewhere in between.. Instead of trying to gather people into their collective positions, both sides continue to polarize the landscape creating a tremendous amount of indifference and irrational justification for voting/supporting the policies they are..
What's more sad is the fact that if I have a moderate position: I'm boring.. No one wants middle of the road anymore even though it's probably represents the majority of how all Americans feel.. It's also not incredibly shocking to find statistics that will resonate that a figure well over 80% or higher does not believe totally or completely with the party they generally support..
It's the tug-of-war attitude that pisses me off the most.. Both sides are shaking the fence so hard, people are scurrying for cover right and left.. Even if they don't fully identify as republican or liberal, they are often left with no choice because the parties, the media and the pundits have shaved the middle road so much - there isn't much of a strip to stand on..
--If you're against the war, you're a liberal..
--If you're anti-gay, you're conservative..
--If there's no immediate crisis in social security, you're liberal..
--If you believe in Schiavo's rights -- you're conservative..
The list will go on and on..
Both sides will have a score card once you reach the end of the road and that will decide where you fall.. From there you're cast into the throngs of the various misfits that happen to reside on your side of the aisle..
I despise Drudge.. Yes I admit that I admire Air America.. That makes me a liberal.. It doesn't mean I'm happy about it.. I don't like a lot of the things liberals do - but I like them more than I like what the conservatives have done..
I'm a realist.. And whoever can paint the most accurate picture on any given issue - will generally have my support.. Anything less is smoke and mirrors.. Karl Rove, Al Franken, and everyone else on *both* sides of the aisle need to realize that America is somewhere in between..
Want to win in 2006, 2008??
Start thinking about those in the middle and quit being so incredibly decisive.. The nation is already split - and neither party is grasping that concept...
Tuesday, February 01, 2005
The news -- or something like it..
It seems like everytime I opened up another news item, it was riddled with just .... incredibly off world issues..
Like how the Iraqi people want to give George Bush his own statute... George may want think about this one through a bit longer considering what happened to the previous guy that had his statute done in the square, ya' know??
Next, it seems like the Iraqi people have the same problems as our friends in Ohio when it came to voting.. More booths, more ballots - and YOU TOO can have the candidate of your choice!!
The last one actually made a lot more sense than people will give Dubya credit for: Al Jeezera is being sold to Fox News.. Yes, I'm groaning as well because the last thing we needed was another "fair and balanced" news source.. *cough cough*
But then as I read further, I didn't know (maybe because it's gone unreported) how the Bush Administration has been pressuring Qatar to sell Al-Jazeera.. Hm.. It's not taking a rocket scientist to figure out that Bush's propaganda problems are behind him .... um - almost.. Because if he was successful to win the propaganda war to secure his Presidency for another term -- can you imagine taking one of the most hateful, most critical news agencies that continually defy your position -- then PURCHASE IT??
Yeah, we'll be seeing Al-Jazeera shape up real soon..
What this means is that the Arab countries news agencies will eventually become western propaganda!! How convenient -- especially how the conservative talk shows continually decry how Al-Jazeera is nothing more than a propaganda machine for Bin Laden and those radical Muslims against America..
Wow..
Imagine my shock and horror to realize that this is Bush's way of securing that there will no longer be bad press spread among the Arab nations.. When in doubt, secure the news agency printing bad things about you..
Seem a bit far out??
Think about it: not long ago I posted a connective nexus between GE, Fox, Viacom and Disney -- all having ties and interests in ... how should I say ... a more conservative way of thinking..
Get ready world.. The Rose colored glasses are coming to television near you!!
Like how the Iraqi people want to give George Bush his own statute... George may want think about this one through a bit longer considering what happened to the previous guy that had his statute done in the square, ya' know??
Next, it seems like the Iraqi people have the same problems as our friends in Ohio when it came to voting.. More booths, more ballots - and YOU TOO can have the candidate of your choice!!
The last one actually made a lot more sense than people will give Dubya credit for: Al Jeezera is being sold to Fox News.. Yes, I'm groaning as well because the last thing we needed was another "fair and balanced" news source.. *cough cough*
But then as I read further, I didn't know (maybe because it's gone unreported) how the Bush Administration has been pressuring Qatar to sell Al-Jazeera.. Hm.. It's not taking a rocket scientist to figure out that Bush's propaganda problems are behind him .... um - almost.. Because if he was successful to win the propaganda war to secure his Presidency for another term -- can you imagine taking one of the most hateful, most critical news agencies that continually defy your position -- then PURCHASE IT??
Yeah, we'll be seeing Al-Jazeera shape up real soon..
What this means is that the Arab countries news agencies will eventually become western propaganda!! How convenient -- especially how the conservative talk shows continually decry how Al-Jazeera is nothing more than a propaganda machine for Bin Laden and those radical Muslims against America..
Wow..
Imagine my shock and horror to realize that this is Bush's way of securing that there will no longer be bad press spread among the Arab nations.. When in doubt, secure the news agency printing bad things about you..
Seem a bit far out??
Think about it: not long ago I posted a connective nexus between GE, Fox, Viacom and Disney -- all having ties and interests in ... how should I say ... a more conservative way of thinking..
Get ready world.. The Rose colored glasses are coming to television near you!!
Tuesday, January 11, 2005
Media is in bed with who??
If there was any doubt that the media doesn't have any "in's" with this or any other administration:
One doesn't have to look any farther than Armstrong Williams...
I'm sure this is not the first time..
..it happens to be the first time anyone openly admitted it (to the best of my recollection..)
One doesn't have to look any farther than Armstrong Williams...
I'm sure this is not the first time..
..it happens to be the first time anyone openly admitted it (to the best of my recollection..)
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