Mitt Romney’s Claim That Shrinking The Government Will Help Americans Isn’t Rational
By Steven Strauss, Harvard University
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Mitt Romney’s shibboleth that shrinking government helps the American people — isn’t based on any rational analysis of costs and benefits. Government isn’t a parasite destroying the American economy. Government is the provider of public goods (infrastructure, education, police, safety standards, etc.) that the private sector can’t or won’t provide. If citizens select lower taxes, smaller government and less regulation, they’ll get: less infrastructure, fewer police, teachers and inspectors, resulting in worse outcomes.
This isn’t a universal defense of every government employee or program. Nor am I claiming that bigger government is always better government. Government programs should be evaluated, and terminated (or restructured), if they aren’t efficiently serving taxpayer needs.
No one can afford to sit out this election. President Obama is asking the American people to take ownership and make their voices heard. PBO can’t do this alone. The American people need to get registered and vote in November. Give president Obama a second term and a congress that will work with him for the common good of all Americans.
The Scariest Chart for the Romney Campaign on Bain Attacks
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Although there’s some polling evidence and Mitt Romney’s allies are getting worried, it’s a little early to tell how effective President Obama’s attacks on the Republican nominee’s time at Bain Capital will be — or how much that will affect the ultimate result of the campaign.
But we can say with some confidence that the attacks are getting Americans’ attention. Via Politico’s Alex Burns, here’s a chart that shows that Google searches for “Bain Capital” have increased exponentially since late last week, when reports about Romney’s confusing involvement — or non-involvement –with the firm from 1999 to 2002 started to surface.
i hope he starts getting a lot of republican challengers at these things. he’s really good at knocking down republican talking points, and does it so nicely too. it’s a win-win for him when he gets challenged/heckled.
expect a wave of positive polling for rmoney this week and next. clearly, it’s from the great weeks rmoney has been having recently. it doesn’t, and doesn’t have to make any sense. the media, of which the polling companies are part of, are desperately trying to stop the bleeding for rmoney.
for future reference, since i’ve been seeing him mentioned here recently, but i’d take charles pierce with a grain of salt. he’s full firebagger all the way. today he’s back to saying he might not vote for PBO because of one highly specific issue: http://www.esquire.com/blogs/politics/fda-spying-report-10720130
there’s never satisfying a firebagger. they will always find something no matter how much amazing, world-changing, and life-saving policies for millions of people, PBO will enact. he will never be good enough for the firebagger, if he doesn’t get himself involved with whatever highly specific story the firebaggers decide is important. as if PBO should and can get involved with every injustice that happens within government. they argue the president should be a micro-micro-manager, that is as long as it’s their latest outrage of the day. complete utter selfishness – that’s a firebagger.
Wow thanks for the info 4more….I recommended the article Chips posted earlier on Twitter….I don’t really know him that well, just from here when Chips or a TODer post a link.
I checked just now…
First 2 lines of his article
I have a suggestion for the Constitutional Law Professor In Chief.
Knock off this scarifying pissantery. Today.
He is on my **** list from now on, never again will I read anything from him!….
Btw what a disrespectful way to address the President, even if it’s in writing, who the hell does he think he is?……and he might not vote for him?…ef him…
Hi ChristiMTL, I honestly wouldn’t lump Charles Pierce in with the general Firebagger low-lives, he’s way better than them. He is, certainly, far left, and is often hugely critical of PBO on some issues, but I just think he’s sincere in his own particular beliefs, unlike most of the Firebagger frauds. And in fairness to him, he regularly gives huge credit to PBO, which is something no Firebagger ever does. You have to take the rough with the smooth with Pierce, but when he’s good I don’t think there’s a better writer out there. No one, I think, sums up Romney better than him.
He’s such a natural — connects with people, is humorous. People learn and have FUN at his town halls. He can tease people and thety can tease him back. At one point he mentioned the people who were giving huge sums to his opponent and one guy yelled out something that must have been “not me!” – or along those lines. PBO stopped and chuckled and nodded to him, “No, not you” — and all were laughing.
Was watching on MSNBC — Tamron Hall just interrupted the Town Hall to report that Dept of Homeland Security has agreed to give Florida access to the database that they wanted to use for their voter purge! WTH!!
Don’t be alarmed. Don’t fall for MSNBC’s ploy to distract with another BS nontroversy. Have trust in our DOJ and O-campaign. They will ensure that voters who are eligible to vote, get the chance to vote.
I think — although I’m not entirely sure — that the use of DHS database REQUIRES that FL must have more than driver’s licenses in order to make someone prove they are not a citizen. I believe there has to be multiple pieces of evidence — like a green card or other identifiers that someone is not a U.S. citizen.
The problem with the original purge was that they took driver’s license numbers and made those people respond to and prove that they were citizens.
I really am not entirely sure and I’m connecting dots — but the conditions under which the database would be made available required that FL actually have some proof that people were not citizens, the opposite of what the situation was before.
I’d love to find some clarification of that. Work does get in the way of me checking that out right now however.
That’s why I’m NOT watching MSNBainCapital, but linking to the CBS livestream instead. This voter purge nonsense is a well-timed “breaking news” to distract viewers from the President’s townhall and the Bain story. I’m sure MSNBainCapital is conveniently omitting some key context to this story…
President Obama is kicking butt in such a folksy and mater of fact way. He is so comfortable in his own skin. It’s downright hypnotic listening to him. He just makes sense.
Good news. I took spousal unit to the cardiologist, and he doesn’t think she has congestive heart failure. She’s had a persistent cough for about 6 weeks, and he thinks it’s one of her medications. She’s also making an appointment for her weight loss surgery, so yay for health.
Took yesterday off from the intertubes. Going back in today. This is NOT your daddy’s Democratic Party. This is Obama’s house now.
For the most part. Her struggle with weight has been a long thing, but she’s finally deciding to take care of it. Once she drops the weight most of her health problems will go away—diabetes, high BP.
Ah, okay LL. Weight issues are such a curse, the domino effect is alarming, they create so many other problems. Wishing her all the best in her battle, and much, much better health.
Glad to hear that she doesn’t have chf! Also glad to hear that she wants to take control of her health and well being the way she does. Good for her! The best to both of you.
Just that a persistent cough, particularly at night, can be asthma. Just thought I’d mention it. You don’t need to wheeze to be asthmatic, but you want to nip it in the bud as soon as possible, if that’s what it is.
It was one of her BP meds that the doctor thought was causing it. He put her off of it and we’ll see how she does over the next couple of weeks. But her EKG was fine, and they also did an ultrasound on her heart. We go back in a month.
LL, that is indeed good news! I have a friend who’s husband developed a persistent cough and it turned out to be a result of his high blood pressure meds and his doctor changed it and the cough went away. Loosing weight is always good for the body. I wish her well and success!
And watch the taxpayers get left footing the bill for some stadium, while the team gets all the profits. A great trick of Republicans — fleecing the taxpayer.
Oh…we’re WAY past that! Already have the taxpayer bought shiny new stadium that looks like a space ship in the damn desert! UFO’s in Phoenix? Right there!
Did you know I loathe Republicans? Have I mentioned that?
The abomination that is the White Sox stadium in Chicago — taxpayers built it, the Sox organization makes all the money, and if they don’t pull in a certain number of people each year, the taxpayer has to PAY for paltry attendance.
I remember when the White Sox threatened to move to St. Petersburg, FL to blackmail Chicago into the stadium deal. And Saint Pete then was stuck with an empty dome for years before getting an expansion team.
If you’re on the mailing list for Charlotte 2012, you probably got a letter from Donna Brazile today
“…September is getting close and I’ve been to many Democratic Conventions, but never one quite like this. I want to make sure you don’t miss out on this great opportunity to be in North Carolina for the 2012 Democratic National Convention. This is the most open and accessible convention to date, and I want you to have a chance to be there.
Give $5 or whatever you can right now and make sure to have your name entered to win free airfare and accommodations for the week in Charlotte. This historic event will start on Labor Day with CarolinaFest2012 and continue throughout the week with hundreds of events, culminating with Thursday night at Panthers Stadium with President Obama. You could be a part of this unforgettable experience.
But you have to give to be entered. Give $5 right now and you’ll be entered to win. We’ll cover credentials and a place to stay. Your grassroots donation makes it possible for more Americans to be involved in this process.
ok, this is getting out of control. Last one for now. This one made my stomach hurt from laughing so hard. My guess is girl scout cookies is trending on twitter right now. Hilarious.
LOLGOP @LOLGOP
——————————————-
Nugent blasts the President’s praise of Thin Mints: “This Kenyan missed a perfect chance to say he’d love to eat a Brownie. UNAMERICAN!”
Mittens would probably thinks Samoas is a country!
I just love when POTUS does town hall events. I hope we will be seeing many more between now and Nov.
Here’s a visual/giggle for you all — you probably have heard/seen the meme equating Robney and wife as Thurston Howell III and Lovey, and maybe you’ve heard the extension to then “cast” the president as The Professor…the latest? Ron Paul as Gilligan.
I’ve been trying to imagine Romney at town halls. He’s going to have to do them. Is he going to have to have his wife standing by him answering most of the questions? It will only work for him if he has smaller crowds with like-minded thinkers.
No one. NO ONE can match Pres. Obama at town hall events. He has such a natural charm and charisma. He easily adapts into any situation. His sense of humor and connection with people is off the charts. This is why his likability numbers have always been up. People are willing to give a person they like, second chances, than someone whom they can’t connect with on any level. Can you imagine Romney doing what we just watched?
Most campaign advice falls into two broad categories, each with its own cliché. One cliché is: When You’re Explaining, You’re Losing. The argument here is that attempting to rebut the details of attacks simply allows the campaign to remain on your opponents’ chosen terrain, so you must avoid any such arguments, deflect attacks, and turn to your own themes. The second main cliché is Never Let an Attack Go Unanswered. This supposed cardinal sin is to decline to respond to an opposing charge.
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That’s probably why Romney is instead responding by returning to his go-to attack, which is to assail Obama as a “crony capitalist” for continuing longstanding policies of subsidizing green energy. (This is also how Romney replied to the last wave of attacks on his tenure at Bain.) It’s not the silver-bullet response anxious Republicans are demanding. That’s because the silver-bullet response does not really exist.
Marsha, you’re a bit late I’m afraid (or was our Pres early??). The townhall finished about 15 minutes ago – and yes it went very, very well. Our president gave thoughtful, informative responses that were well received by the audience. He got some great questions and a few light-hearted ones (e.g., what’s his fav’rite Girl Scout cookie), but all in all, a wonderful Town-Halll session.
It’s over, Marsha. It was a love-fest. Good questions with good answers and plenty of banter in between. Really, quite a feel-good event. No hecklers. No stupid nonsensical questions. Chants of “4 more years”, applause at the President’s achievements, and acknowledgement that there’s still work to be done.
Obama sings “Happy Birthday” to supporter – July 16, 2012 11:24 AM
During a speech at the Cincinnati Music Hall on Monday, President Obama gave a nod to the venue by leading the crowd in singing “Happy Birthday” to a newly 18-year-old supporter named Adam. Video: http://www.cbsnews.com/video/watch/?id=7415066n&tag=strip
WARNING: ObamaCare is a ticking time bomb that could go off and save millions of Americans from heartache and illness.
Something strange is happening all over America: Insurance companies are sending checks to their customers.
When I received mine, I was shocked. Aren’t I supposed to be paying you, Humana, more and more as I’m increasingly scared of using any service for fear of being branded with a preexisting condition? But no, it was an actual check for real cash money—enough to pay for most of month of coverage or a couple of co-pays. Nothing life-changing, of course. But a shock.
Why is this happening? Some call it the “Bomb Buried In Obamacare” because it’s one of those AMAZING Affordable Care Act benefits—like gender equity, community health centers and the end of lifetime limits—that people rarely mention.
I’m glad the girl scout question came up – will give people a chance to remember that the GOP accused the girl scouts of being some mind-controlling organization, intent on turning little girls into some radicalized, lesbian communists and destroying the traditional American family… These people are actually insane.
IT’S AMAZING WHAT CAN HAPPEN WHEN JOURNALISTS CHALLENGE OUTLANDISH CLAIMS
Romney Camp Decries ‘Crony Capitalism,’ Can’t Name Single Ethics Reform To Stop It
By Benjy Sarlin
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Cuccinelli repeatedly attacked Obama for appointing “bundlers,” or top campaign fundraisers, to his administration, but offered no assurance at all that Romney would institute a policy restricting their appointments. Even if Romney did insist on keeping bundlers out of his administration, it would be impossible to tell. Romney, unlike Obama, John McCain and President George W. Bush, won’t release a list of his bundlers, according to campaign finance advocates. The only ones publicly disclosed so far are bundlers who are also registered lobbyists, since they’re governed by disclosure requirements. Obama, by contrast, does not allow lobbyists to raise money for his campaign.
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A spokeswoman for the Romney campaign did not immediately respond to requests for further details on ethics reforms the Republican nominee would implement to keep donors from affecting policy. Romney has not pledged to maintain new standards instituted by Obama, including a restriction on appointing lobbyists to Cabinet positions.
A caller to Thom Hartman said he’d been looking into Sankaty in Bermuda and it appears they specialize in credit-default swaps. IF that is true (this was just a regular caller, not a specialist), Romney made lots of money from ordinary folks losing their homes. That would be dynamite. The Republicans would HAVE to replace him.
Little girl at the end of the video: “It was amazing! I got goosebumps just thinking about him coming here. It was awesome: [How surprised were you when he walked in?] I about fell out of my chair!”
“In recent years, MSNBC TV has shifted toward political commentary favorable to Democratic and liberal causes, creating a potential clash between that mission and the website’s goal of producing a nonpartisan news report.”
Yeah, we can’t have commentary favorable to Democrats, you filthy Microsoftians !
ROMNEY ON TAX RETURNS: COMPARE ME TO TERESA HEINZ KERRY NOT PRESIDENT OBAMA
Romney comes up with a tax-return spin
By Steve Benen
——————————————————
I’m delighted Romney is now saying something in response to the question, but I’m having a tough time wrapping my head around this one. He’s going to keep his tax returns secret and hidden from public view because … Obama might find stuff?
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Complicating matters, Romney also said on Fox that he shouldn’t be compared to other presidential candidates, but rather, compared to other candidates’ spouses. “John Kerry ran for president,” Romney said. “You know, his wife, who has hundreds of millions of dollars, she never released her tax returns. Somehow, this wasn’t an issue.”
Did I miss the memo that said Romney is no longer running for POTUS and is now running for FLOTUS? The dude’s contempt for proper procedure is breathtaking. He’s an overprivileged, pompous asshole!
President Obama on Monday seized on a report claiming that Mitt Romney’s economic plan would create jobs overseas to ramp up his attacks on his Republican rival.
Obama cited a Tax Notes newsletter by Reed College economist Kimberly Clausing that said Romney’s jobs plan “would increase employment in low-tax countries by about 800,000 jobs.”
The Green Party held their 2012 national convention in Baltimore where they nominated environmentalist Jill Stein as their presidential candidate in the first round of voting with 13.5 delegates out of a possible 292. Dr. Stein was our guest on the Washington Journal on Sunday (CSPAN).
On Saturday morning, the delegates approved the party platform. They then proceeded to the nomination of presidential and vice presidential candidates. Jill Stein, a physician and environmental activist, began her work in the green movement from a public health perspective. She and other candidates for president will speak to the delegates before the official nomination.
Comedian and activist Roseanne Barr also ran for the nomination, coming in second, and was considered a strong possibility to run for vice president. She was scheduled to address the delegates Saturday morning, but instead a surrogate made a statement on her behalf.
On Wednesday, Dr. Stein announced that anti-poverty advocate Cheri Honkala was her choice for the second-in-command spot. In the past, the Green Party has run candidates who had prior run for office or served as Democrats. Dr. Stein will be the first nominee to come directly from the environmental movement.
Obama White House.gov
The Obama Diary 
oh boy!
Yay! 🙂
Hello!
Cool can’t wait!
He’s already talking 🙂
I see a lot of heads nodding in agreement.
Ooh, so close, yet so far!
Mitt Romney’s Claim That Shrinking The Government Will Help Americans Isn’t Rational
By Steven Strauss, Harvard University
—————————————–
Mitt Romney’s shibboleth that shrinking government helps the American people — isn’t based on any rational analysis of costs and benefits. Government isn’t a parasite destroying the American economy. Government is the provider of public goods (infrastructure, education, police, safety standards, etc.) that the private sector can’t or won’t provide. If citizens select lower taxes, smaller government and less regulation, they’ll get: less infrastructure, fewer police, teachers and inspectors, resulting in worse outcomes.
This isn’t a universal defense of every government employee or program. Nor am I claiming that bigger government is always better government. Government programs should be evaluated, and terminated (or restructured), if they aren’t efficiently serving taxpayer needs.
————————————————–
http://www.businessinsider.com/mitt-romneys-claim-that-shrinking-the-government-will-help-americans-isnt-rational-2012-7
Ooh, that one hurts Romney. More facts and truth, please.
If Romney doesn’t understand the role of government, then how is he qualified to run the governmnet?
Good question.
Thanks Chips!
You’re welcome UT! Crikey, it started a whole 20 minutes early!
Crowd spontaneously erupts in “Four More Years!”
Anyone know of any local links?
Try this one: http://livewire.wlwt.com/Event/President_Obama_Visits_Cincinnati_2
Thank JER, I’ll try that too, having major problems with those feeds.
C-Span did carry it online, but didn’t post it until the last minute. Not available yet for replay but will be soon.
http://www.c-span.org/Campaign2012/Events/President-Begins-Week-of-Campaigning-in-Ohio/10737432373/
Thanks Sharon.
Chipsticks – you’re the greatest!!!! THANKS!
Hi GGail. Yes, our Chips is brilliant!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! And have I said today, how much I thank you, Chips?
Well, here goes: “I Thank Our Beautiful Gift, Our Chipsticks, the Best.” ((((( Love you, Chips)))))HZ
Ah now HZ, you made me blush, I have a face like a tomato as I type. Hope you’re getting better, always a joy to hear from you 😉
Helloooooooooooooooooooo GGail!
Hellooooooooo Chipsticks! This turned out to be a bonus event – a townhall style Q&A.
Hi HZ! I’m so glad that I am able to sneak some time in with you beloved people here at TOD. I hope you’re feeling well. Love you!
Hey Chips. I found another link.
http://www.wcpo.com/generic/news/news_livestream2/WCPO-Live-1-router
THERE’S A STALEMATE AND THE TIE BREAKER IS ‘YOU’.
No one can afford to sit out this election. President Obama is asking the American people to take ownership and make their voices heard. PBO can’t do this alone. The American people need to get registered and vote in November. Give president Obama a second term and a congress that will work with him for the common good of all Americans.
Beautiful crowd that is fired up for sure. “4 More Years”, they shout out. Yes, Yes, Yes, Mr. President.HZ
Wow! All these standing ovations!!
“I still have confidence in the American people.”
“We are going to finish what we started in 2008.” Yes We Will, Mr. President.HZ
The Scariest Chart for the Romney Campaign on Bain Attacks
————————————-
Although there’s some polling evidence and Mitt Romney’s allies are getting worried, it’s a little early to tell how effective President Obama’s attacks on the Republican nominee’s time at Bain Capital will be — or how much that will affect the ultimate result of the campaign.
But we can say with some confidence that the attacks are getting Americans’ attention. Via Politico’s Alex Burns, here’s a chart that shows that Google searches for “Bain Capital” have increased exponentially since late last week, when reports about Romney’s confusing involvement — or non-involvement –with the firm from 1999 to 2002 started to surface.
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http://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2012/07/the-scariest-chart-for-the-romney-campaign-on-bain-attacks/259869/
Oh I love his townhalls 🙂
I know, right? LOVE his ability to exchange openly and directly with voters. He always connects very well.
i hope he starts getting a lot of republican challengers at these things. he’s really good at knocking down republican talking points, and does it so nicely too. it’s a win-win for him when he gets challenged/heckled.
yes he does, thats the ingredient- he talks TO US.. he LISTENS/ HEARS US. I will have his back the rest of my life.
And he really seems to enjoy the back and forth banter that comes out of these events. He enjoys us.
Totally WITH you on that.
Jen psaki response to Robney-
http://thehill.com/video/campaign/238117-team-obama-romney-should-release-minutes-from-bain-meetings
With video! I like Her!
Talking points memo now says that Colorado is now a tossup. Based on what facts?
expect a wave of positive polling for rmoney this week and next. clearly, it’s from the great weeks rmoney has been having recently. it doesn’t, and doesn’t have to make any sense. the media, of which the polling companies are part of, are desperately trying to stop the bleeding for rmoney.
for future reference, since i’ve been seeing him mentioned here recently, but i’d take charles pierce with a grain of salt. he’s full firebagger all the way. today he’s back to saying he might not vote for PBO because of one highly specific issue:
http://www.esquire.com/blogs/politics/fda-spying-report-10720130
there’s never satisfying a firebagger. they will always find something no matter how much amazing, world-changing, and life-saving policies for millions of people, PBO will enact. he will never be good enough for the firebagger, if he doesn’t get himself involved with whatever highly specific story the firebaggers decide is important. as if PBO should and can get involved with every injustice that happens within government. they argue the president should be a micro-micro-manager, that is as long as it’s their latest outrage of the day. complete utter selfishness – that’s a firebagger.
Wow thanks for the info 4more….I recommended the article Chips posted earlier on Twitter….I don’t really know him that well, just from here when Chips or a TODer post a link.
I checked just now…
First 2 lines of his article
I have a suggestion for the Constitutional Law Professor In Chief.
Knock off this scarifying pissantery. Today.
He is on my **** list from now on, never again will I read anything from him!….
Btw what a disrespectful way to address the President, even if it’s in writing, who the hell does he think he is?……and he might not vote for him?…ef him…
I’ve never heard of him. Clearly, I’m not missing out on any nuggets of wisdom or deep thinking – just a lot of douchebaggery. I’ll pass.
Hi ChristiMTL, I honestly wouldn’t lump Charles Pierce in with the general Firebagger low-lives, he’s way better than them. He is, certainly, far left, and is often hugely critical of PBO on some issues, but I just think he’s sincere in his own particular beliefs, unlike most of the Firebagger frauds. And in fairness to him, he regularly gives huge credit to PBO, which is something no Firebagger ever does. You have to take the rough with the smooth with Pierce, but when he’s good I don’t think there’s a better writer out there. No one, I think, sums up Romney better than him.
Ah ok Chips, thanks 🙂 I don’t really know him…..I just reacted strongly…….I trust you!!
Bait ‘n switch humor, our PBO
Love what he said about staying loyal to his barber. My mom was a hairdresser for 40 years. I know what he speaks. 😀
“Maybe I’ll let you give me a line or something” — cracked me up!
Dudette, my daughter recently opened up her Hair Salon Business…..her clients all followed her to new location…they wouldn’t dare not! Ha!
I followed my stylist to 10 different salons over 12 years. 🙂
wow, you really are something…..really helped that person!
Everytime I went to somebody else, they just didn’t do it right! Broke my heart when she moved out of state. That commute was just too far. 😀
PBO is on a role in Ohio, Barber loyalty, funny, smart,….all in one package, as we all know. Can’t wait for the debates.
“You would not want a president who is disloyal to his barber”. PBO, July 16, 2012.
Too cute! 🙂
He’s such a natural — connects with people, is humorous. People learn and have FUN at his town halls. He can tease people and thety can tease him back. At one point he mentioned the people who were giving huge sums to his opponent and one guy yelled out something that must have been “not me!” – or along those lines. PBO stopped and chuckled and nodded to him, “No, not you” — and all were laughing.
Lots of laughing here.
Was watching on MSNBC — Tamron Hall just interrupted the Town Hall to report that Dept of Homeland Security has agreed to give Florida access to the database that they wanted to use for their voter purge! WTH!!
Don’t be alarmed. Don’t fall for MSNBC’s ploy to distract with another BS nontroversy. Have trust in our DOJ and O-campaign. They will ensure that voters who are eligible to vote, get the chance to vote.
Switching to one of the streams now. There’s not ONE news outlet on TV that’s carrying it live — at least none of my Comcast channels.
Now they have Beyonce Ad! (after a Palin worthless discussion)
I think — although I’m not entirely sure — that the use of DHS database REQUIRES that FL must have more than driver’s licenses in order to make someone prove they are not a citizen. I believe there has to be multiple pieces of evidence — like a green card or other identifiers that someone is not a U.S. citizen.
The problem with the original purge was that they took driver’s license numbers and made those people respond to and prove that they were citizens.
I really am not entirely sure and I’m connecting dots — but the conditions under which the database would be made available required that FL actually have some proof that people were not citizens, the opposite of what the situation was before.
I’d love to find some clarification of that. Work does get in the way of me checking that out right now however.
Isn’t that old news by now. Seems I first heard that ages ago.
We just have to cut the Presudent off because my name is Tamron!
That’s why I’m NOT watching MSNBainCapital, but linking to the CBS livestream instead. This voter purge nonsense is a well-timed “breaking news” to distract viewers from the President’s townhall and the Bain story. I’m sure MSNBainCapital is conveniently omitting some key context to this story…
To HELL with MSNBainCapital.
They are very beguiling!
And speculation about Willard’s running mate is so critical.
President Obama is kicking butt in such a folksy and mater of fact way. He is so comfortable in his own skin. It’s downright hypnotic listening to him. He just makes sense.
I was watching MSNBC as well — had to switch to CNN livestreaming….
Hello everybody.
Good news. I took spousal unit to the cardiologist, and he doesn’t think she has congestive heart failure. She’s had a persistent cough for about 6 weeks, and he thinks it’s one of her medications. She’s also making an appointment for her weight loss surgery, so yay for health.
Took yesterday off from the intertubes. Going back in today. This is NOT your daddy’s Democratic Party. This is Obama’s house now.
Great to see you LL, I’m completely out of the loop and didn’t know about these medical problems, I hope all’s good?
For the most part. Her struggle with weight has been a long thing, but she’s finally deciding to take care of it. Once she drops the weight most of her health problems will go away—diabetes, high BP.
Ah, okay LL. Weight issues are such a curse, the domino effect is alarming, they create so many other problems. Wishing her all the best in her battle, and much, much better health.
Glad to hear that she doesn’t have chf! Also glad to hear that she wants to take control of her health and well being the way she does. Good for her! The best to both of you.
Did you ask the doctor if the cough is asthma-related? NSAID’s like aspirin and Advil can cause asthma in 20% of adults.
My husband has had allergy-like responses to one of his medications. So it’s entirely possible.
She has had asthma, but it’s not chronic. It’s gotten much better since she moved out here to L.A. I never see her using her inhaler.
Just that a persistent cough, particularly at night, can be asthma. Just thought I’d mention it. You don’t need to wheeze to be asthmatic, but you want to nip it in the bud as soon as possible, if that’s what it is.
Some blood pressure meds do that. My mom switched from one because of that.
It was one of her BP meds that the doctor thought was causing it. He put her off of it and we’ll see how she does over the next couple of weeks. But her EKG was fine, and they also did an ultrasound on her heart. We go back in a month.
Hope the new one works out for her.
She’s taking 2 BP meds, so he just increased the other one.
WHEW. So sorry she is going through this but happy that she has you. Take good care.
LL, that is indeed good news! I have a friend who’s husband developed a persistent cough and it turned out to be a result of his high blood pressure meds and his doctor changed it and the cough went away. Loosing weight is always good for the body. I wish her well and success!
The Arizona Cardinals of the NFL donated $5000 to JAN PAC, Gov. Jan Brewer’s super PAC. Have they lost their mind?
And watch the taxpayers get left footing the bill for some stadium, while the team gets all the profits. A great trick of Republicans — fleecing the taxpayer.
Oh…we’re WAY past that! Already have the taxpayer bought shiny new stadium that looks like a space ship in the damn desert! UFO’s in Phoenix? Right there!
Did you know I loathe Republicans? Have I mentioned that?
The abomination that is the White Sox stadium in Chicago — taxpayers built it, the Sox organization makes all the money, and if they don’t pull in a certain number of people each year, the taxpayer has to PAY for paltry attendance.
I loathe Republicans.
I remember when the White Sox threatened to move to St. Petersburg, FL to blackmail Chicago into the stadium deal. And Saint Pete then was stuck with an empty dome for years before getting an expansion team.
Check out the work of David Cay Johnston on how corporations fleece the taxpayer. Fascinating, if infuriating, stuff.
Link please, Bill. Thanks
Search “Jan Brewer” at POLITICO. It was announced at 7:26 AM yesterday.
My guess is it came from the owner, Mr. Bidwell…
http://www.forbes.com/lists/2010/30/football-valuations-10_Arizona-Cardinals_309893.html
One of Romney’s “friends” I expect.
Time for boycott of Cardinals’ games.
The NFL should have a rule against a team making political donations. I would cancel my season tickets as soon as hearing about it.
If you’re on the mailing list for Charlotte 2012, you probably got a letter from Donna Brazile today
“…September is getting close and I’ve been to many Democratic Conventions, but never one quite like this. I want to make sure you don’t miss out on this great opportunity to be in North Carolina for the 2012 Democratic National Convention. This is the most open and accessible convention to date, and I want you to have a chance to be there.
Give $5 or whatever you can right now and make sure to have your name entered to win free airfare and accommodations for the week in Charlotte. This historic event will start on Labor Day with CarolinaFest2012 and continue throughout the week with hundreds of events, culminating with Thursday night at Panthers Stadium with President Obama. You could be a part of this unforgettable experience.
But you have to give to be entered. Give $5 right now and you’ll be entered to win. We’ll cover credentials and a place to stay. Your grassroots donation makes it possible for more Americans to be involved in this process.
I hope to see you in Charlotte.
Sincerely,
Donna Brazile”
http://charlottein2012.com/
OH DEAR. LOOKS LIKE A GIRL SCOUT COOKIE SCANDAL IS BREWING (snark)
LOLGOP @LOLGOP
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Mitt Romney blasts President Obama for going negative on Samoas.
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“Obama pretends to reject lesbian symbol stamped on Trefoils cookies, but we know the truth!”
LOLGOP @LOLGOP
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Great news, everyone. @Politifact just gave the President’s claim that he prefers Thin Mints a “Mostly True”!
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Ha!
ok, this is getting out of control. Last one for now. This one made my stomach hurt from laughing so hard. My guess is girl scout cookies is trending on twitter right now. Hilarious.
LOLGOP @LOLGOP
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Nugent blasts the President’s praise of Thin Mints: “This Kenyan missed a perfect chance to say he’d love to eat a Brownie. UNAMERICAN!”
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Yup, “thin mints” is trending on Twitter 🙂
Methinks the Girl Scouts orgs across the nation will see a rise in the demand for thin mints!
Stimulus!! 😀
Mittens would probably thinks Samoas is a country!
I just love when POTUS does town hall events. I hope we will be seeing many more between now and Nov.
PBO looked so down today. 😆
There was an awful lot of (cute) giggling at this town hall today – I’m so glad he enjoys these things!
Here’s a visual/giggle for you all — you probably have heard/seen the meme equating Robney and wife as Thurston Howell III and Lovey, and maybe you’ve heard the extension to then “cast” the president as The Professor…the latest? Ron Paul as Gilligan.
No way. Gilligan was a very kind hearted person, compassionate and caring. Does not fit with Paul at all.
Exactly! Gilligan was a sweetie-pie. Ron Paul, not so much!
Point taken. I think it refers more to his general goofiness, haplessness and tendency to go off and do things his own way.
The lack of enthusiasm turned on my water works. Why don’t the people like him? It’s got to be the color of his shirt.
I’ve never seen a POTUS so smart, so sweet, so charismatic, so beloved.
Living history before our eyes.
I know Yardarm, and you could see how PBO sensed all that lack of enthusiasm too, he looked a worried man:
Awwww…! 🙂
What a magnificent set of teeth!
I had the same thought. Great teeth! Yet another exceptional tidbit.
Glad you saw it too. I was beginning to doubt my eyes. 😆
I’ve been trying to imagine Romney at town halls. He’s going to have to do them. Is he going to have to have his wife standing by him answering most of the questions? It will only work for him if he has smaller crowds with like-minded thinkers.
No one. NO ONE can match Pres. Obama at town hall events. He has such a natural charm and charisma. He easily adapts into any situation. His sense of humor and connection with people is off the charts. This is why his likability numbers have always been up. People are willing to give a person they like, second chances, than someone whom they can’t connect with on any level. Can you imagine Romney doing what we just watched?
I watch Martin Bashir, Rev. Al, Ed, sometimes Rachel and sometime O’Donnell. I do not watch Tamron and all that other B.S. which comes on MSNBC.
I just love the part about Romney plan creating 800,000 jobs, the problem is they will be overseas. I loved it. Loved it, loved it, loved it.
Yep! Knocked that one out of the park!!
That was such a TREAT today!!!! A Town Hall with President Barack Obama 🙂
Thank you Chipsticks for being the Blogger Extraordinaire!
Republicans Advise Mitt: Attack! Defend!
By Jonathan Chait
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Most campaign advice falls into two broad categories, each with its own cliché. One cliché is: When You’re Explaining, You’re Losing. The argument here is that attempting to rebut the details of attacks simply allows the campaign to remain on your opponents’ chosen terrain, so you must avoid any such arguments, deflect attacks, and turn to your own themes. The second main cliché is Never Let an Attack Go Unanswered. This supposed cardinal sin is to decline to respond to an opposing charge.
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That’s probably why Romney is instead responding by returning to his go-to attack, which is to assail Obama as a “crony capitalist” for continuing longstanding policies of subsidizing green energy. (This is also how Romney replied to the last wave of attacks on his tenure at Bain.) It’s not the silver-bullet response anxious Republicans are demanding. That’s because the silver-bullet response does not really exist.
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http://nymag.com/daily/intel/2012/07/republicans-advise-mitt-attack-defend.html
So have they reached the Q & A? Is President Obama delivering concise and direct answers?
Marsha, you’re a bit late I’m afraid (or was our Pres early??). The townhall finished about 15 minutes ago – and yes it went very, very well. Our president gave thoughtful, informative responses that were well received by the audience. He got some great questions and a few light-hearted ones (e.g., what’s his fav’rite Girl Scout cookie), but all in all, a wonderful Town-Halll session.
It’s over, Marsha. It was a love-fest. Good questions with good answers and plenty of banter in between. Really, quite a feel-good event. No hecklers. No stupid nonsensical questions. Chants of “4 more years”, applause at the President’s achievements, and acknowledgement that there’s still work to be done.
Obama sings “Happy Birthday” to supporter – July 16, 2012 11:24 AM
During a speech at the Cincinnati Music Hall on Monday, President Obama gave a nod to the venue by leading the crowd in singing “Happy Birthday” to a newly 18-year-old supporter named Adam. Video: http://www.cbsnews.com/video/watch/?id=7415066n&tag=strip
He’s so darn cute.
Your Affordable Care Act Rebate Can Save Lives
By LOLGOP
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WARNING: ObamaCare is a ticking time bomb that could go off and save millions of Americans from heartache and illness.
Something strange is happening all over America: Insurance companies are sending checks to their customers.
When I received mine, I was shocked. Aren’t I supposed to be paying you, Humana, more and more as I’m increasingly scared of using any service for fear of being branded with a preexisting condition? But no, it was an actual check for real cash money—enough to pay for most of month of coverage or a couple of co-pays. Nothing life-changing, of course. But a shock.
Why is this happening? Some call it the “Bomb Buried In Obamacare” because it’s one of those AMAZING Affordable Care Act benefits—like gender equity, community health centers and the end of lifetime limits—that people rarely mention.
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http://eclectablog.com/2012/07/invest-in-the-middle-class-your-affordable-care-act-rebate-can-help-save-lives.html
The GOP better get on this right away and stop payment on all those checks! It’s socialism, doncha know…
I’m glad the girl scout question came up – will give people a chance to remember that the GOP accused the girl scouts of being some mind-controlling organization, intent on turning little girls into some radicalized, lesbian communists and destroying the traditional American family… These people are actually insane.
Ugh:
🙂
I love it when they toy with the Willard campaign that way.
IT’S AMAZING WHAT CAN HAPPEN WHEN JOURNALISTS CHALLENGE OUTLANDISH CLAIMS
Romney Camp Decries ‘Crony Capitalism,’ Can’t Name Single Ethics Reform To Stop It
By Benjy Sarlin
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Cuccinelli repeatedly attacked Obama for appointing “bundlers,” or top campaign fundraisers, to his administration, but offered no assurance at all that Romney would institute a policy restricting their appointments. Even if Romney did insist on keeping bundlers out of his administration, it would be impossible to tell. Romney, unlike Obama, John McCain and President George W. Bush, won’t release a list of his bundlers, according to campaign finance advocates. The only ones publicly disclosed so far are bundlers who are also registered lobbyists, since they’re governed by disclosure requirements. Obama, by contrast, does not allow lobbyists to raise money for his campaign.
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A spokeswoman for the Romney campaign did not immediately respond to requests for further details on ethics reforms the Republican nominee would implement to keep donors from affecting policy. Romney has not pledged to maintain new standards instituted by Obama, including a restriction on appointing lobbyists to Cabinet positions.
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http://2012.talkingpointsmemo.com/2012/07/cuccinelli-romney-obama-crony-capitalism.php?ref=fpnewsfeed
All his surrogate are incompetent.
PBO’s lunch: Cincinnati chili dogs, hold the onions – Video: http://www.cbsnews.com/video/watch/?id=7415062n&tag=strip
A caller to Thom Hartman said he’d been looking into Sankaty in Bermuda and it appears they specialize in credit-default swaps. IF that is true (this was just a regular caller, not a specialist), Romney made lots of money from ordinary folks losing their homes. That would be dynamite. The Republicans would HAVE to replace him.
It’s going to be an interesting summer.
VIDEO ALERT: How does the president like his chili?
http://www.fox19.com/story/19035174/president-barak-obama-stops-at-cincinnatis-skyline-chili
Enjoy!
Little girl at the end of the video: “It was amazing! I got goosebumps just thinking about him coming here. It was awesome: [How surprised were you when he walked in?] I about fell out of my chair!”
I envy her so! 🙂
Sweet!
Thanks for that. The little girl at the end was just adorable. She had chills and it was awesome. I wanted to scoop her up in my arms.
That little girl is adorable. It would have been amazing for me too!
C-Span is now listing this town hall in Ohio as “next” after this live event, approximately 4pm ET.
Thanks Sharon!
Why Microsoft and NBC broke up:
“In recent years, MSNBC TV has shifted toward political commentary favorable to Democratic and liberal causes, creating a potential clash between that mission and the website’s goal of producing a nonpartisan news report.”
Yeah, we can’t have commentary favorable to Democrats, you filthy Microsoftians !
See: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/48180815/ns/business-us_business/#.UARv0xnK6JM
Oh this explanation is such utter drivel.
It’s topsy-turvy universe again!
Really? Where the hell do they see news that is overwhelmingly favorable to Democrats? The BS that corporations spew is so freaking unbelievable.
ROMNEY ON TAX RETURNS: COMPARE ME TO TERESA HEINZ KERRY NOT PRESIDENT OBAMA
Romney comes up with a tax-return spin
By Steve Benen
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I’m delighted Romney is now saying something in response to the question, but I’m having a tough time wrapping my head around this one. He’s going to keep his tax returns secret and hidden from public view because … Obama might find stuff?
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Complicating matters, Romney also said on Fox that he shouldn’t be compared to other presidential candidates, but rather, compared to other candidates’ spouses. “John Kerry ran for president,” Romney said. “You know, his wife, who has hundreds of millions of dollars, she never released her tax returns. Somehow, this wasn’t an issue.”
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http://maddowblog.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2012/07/16/12771435-romney-comes-up-with-a-tax-return-spin?lite
He’s got to be kidding.
Ohh, which post was it that Mrs. Heinz was running for again?
Somebody tweet him this URL please?
http://www.taxhistory.org/www/website.nsf/Web/PresidentialTaxReturns?OpenDocument
Did I miss the memo that said Romney is no longer running for POTUS and is now running for FLOTUS? The dude’s contempt for proper procedure is breathtaking. He’s an overprivileged, pompous asshole!
Laughing out loud at this one, UT!
LOL…I think you just gave us the memo, UT. Great Twitter Trend…mittard thinks he’s running for FLOTUS!
willard’s not only a lying sociopathic pathological Liar…he’s RFing Stupid. Thx pox and fiends for letting him spew his shite.
New post everyone:
http://theobamadiary.com/2012/07/16/cincinnati-3/
Back in a while with more.
President Obama on Monday seized on a report claiming that Mitt Romney’s economic plan would create jobs overseas to ramp up his attacks on his Republican rival.
Obama cited a Tax Notes newsletter by Reed College economist Kimberly Clausing that said Romney’s jobs plan “would increase employment in low-tax countries by about 800,000 jobs.”
http://thehill.com/blogs/blog-briefing-room/news/238155-obama-ramps-up-attacks-against-romney-as-an-outsourcer
Folks, don’t forget there’s another candidate that we need to beat in November too!
It’s gonna be a tough fight on all fronts! Keep your wits about you. Press On!
FORWARD
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Green Party Nominates Jill Stein for President
http://www.c-span.org/Events/Green-Party-Nominates-Jill-Stein-for-President/10737432256/
Baltimore, Maryland
Saturday, July 14, 2012
The Green Party held their 2012 national convention in Baltimore where they nominated environmentalist Jill Stein as their presidential candidate in the first round of voting with 13.5 delegates out of a possible 292. Dr. Stein was our guest on the Washington Journal on Sunday (CSPAN).
On Saturday morning, the delegates approved the party platform. They then proceeded to the nomination of presidential and vice presidential candidates. Jill Stein, a physician and environmental activist, began her work in the green movement from a public health perspective. She and other candidates for president will speak to the delegates before the official nomination.
Comedian and activist Roseanne Barr also ran for the nomination, coming in second, and was considered a strong possibility to run for vice president. She was scheduled to address the delegates Saturday morning, but instead a surrogate made a statement on her behalf.
On Wednesday, Dr. Stein announced that anti-poverty advocate Cheri Honkala was her choice for the second-in-command spot. In the past, the Green Party has run candidates who had prior run for office or served as Democrats. Dr. Stein will be the first nominee to come directly from the environmental movement.
What exactly does she stand for? It seems the only purpose for the Green Party these days is to attempt to take votes from the Democratic candidate.
Ron Christie is clearing up “retroactive retirement” for us. It is PBO’s fault.