His mother must be smiling down in heaven. What a great VPOTUS. Here’s to hoping that the 113th session of Congress renews his Violence Against Women Act.
NEWLY CROWNED R. SENATOR TED CRUZ JUST CAN’T WAIT TO CRITICIZE PBO ON CNN’S WOLF BLITZER…DESCRIBING THE LATEST EVENTS AS A ‘LOUSY DEAL’….CRUZ SAYS HE’LL BE GLAD TO WORK WITH THE PRESIDENT IF HE’S ‘PRODUCTIVE.’ WOW…MR. FIRST DAY INFLATED EGO IS IN FOR A CRUSHING SURPRISE!
The idea of a junior Senator saying he wil allow himself to work with the POTUS if it is productive is hilarious. PBO will not give him the time of day. Cruz is going to be a pain in the neck. He is as dogmatic as Rand Paul but more egotistical, smarter, and loves the camera even more.
Thank you so much hopefruit for posting this! It’s so apropos! This is honestly spooky because after I saw Joe Biden’s video welcoming new Senators I was thinking of requesting either Dudette or Yardarm to post this since I have absolutely no clue how to do it. In my book, Quincy Jones is a musical genius.
One of the most endearing essay's, by a WH military attache's father, interacting with our beloved president huff.to/YSgVkM— The lovely Plains (@DaRiverZkind) January 03, 2013
We seem to like the same ‘people’ stories, you and I, LovelyP. I commented on that earlier, was it today, or was it yesterday? Hanging out in TODville messes with my sense of time.
I ran across it yesterday, like you I have no clue where, once you enter TOD its a time warp! on a side note Captain Kirk tweeted an astronaut today and the man in space tweeted back!!! What a great world we live in.
Oh, I love that story. My experience of PBO on a few occasions is that he makes CONTACT with people. When given the chance and an opportune moment, he CONNECTS. He’s just a very, very sweet man.
Billionaire US investor Warren Buffett is taking a $2.5bn (£1.5bn) bet on solar energy, acquiring what is set to become the largest photovoltaic development in the world.
MidAmerican Energy Holdings, a subsidiary of Mr Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway investment company, has struck a deal with SunPower to acquire and build two projects in California’s Antelope Valley.
The deal, which will see MidAmerican pay between $2bn to $2.5bn, marks the third time in little over a year that Mr Buffett has ploughed cash into solar energy.
He last year created a unit within Mid American to support an increasing number of solar and wind investments.
Work on the projects will begin within the next few months and construction is expected to be completed by the end of 2015.
SunPower, which is 66pc-owned by France’s Total, will remain involved in the construction and operation of the projects.
Buffett gets it. He knows what’s going to be powering the future and smart energy policies and companies are most definitely the future. I’m excited to watch the progress.
Cleaned house (taken out the trash: Cenk Ugyur, David Shuster, Elliot Spitzer, Bill Press, Gavin Newsom) and turned it into a stellar (credible) progressive network…
Al Jazeera only paid 400 million for it…Warren could have done it easily…
In a way I now get why most wealthy liberals won’t invest in many of these ‘progressive’ media outlets…most are run and operated by some of the most mediocre, craven, shallow, narcissistic opportunists who mostly delight in the sound of their own voices…
My 4 grown kids and families spent the week of Christmas in a condo together in S. Lake Tahoe. Good times! We divided up on Christmas Day evening and went in three directions to movies. My two daughters and my granddaughter and I went to Les Miz, my 2 sons and a daughter-in-law went to The Hobbit, while my daughter’s fiance and my son’s wife went to the new Tarrentino movie. We came back weeping and humming, the Hobbit goers came back in hobbitmode, while the Tarrentino watchers came back disgusted in too much gratitous violence. I kept hearing them say buckets of blood. My youngest daughter studied opera in Europe for a year towards her music major and she liked the Les Miz movie. That is saying a lot since she is normally critical in the area of her expertise.
Even GOP agrees it's time for #TeaParty to get its own mascot. I vote for a deer in headlight…as seen through crosshairs #TeaPartyMascot— Darrin Stephens (@TheSecondDarrin) January 03, 2013
Hey TODobots, is celebrating ‘birthdays’ a new WordPress thingy? I noticed a champagne glass in my message box (as opposed to a sort of square) so clicked to check it out and saw this message accompanying a sort of celebratory wreath …
“You registered on WordPress.com 2 years ago!
Thanks for flying with us. Keep up the good blogging!”
I got the celebratory message, but I don’t remember a champagne glass… you must be special! I didn’t get anything after year 1, either – maybe it’s a new thing?
Thanks for answering, Theo. I was beginning to think I was imagining things as no one responded – you know, let’s humour the one seeing and hearing things. The glass was at the spot where the little light comes on when someone replies directly to your comment. In fact, it is still there to the left of the avatar that accompanies the message. Did you get your message recently?
I don’t know, Theo. I can easily see some here nodding and admitting ‘VC’s SPECIAL alright!’ ‘Special’ has its connotations that are not always special to me and make me quite satisfied with being ordinary
M. Depardieu doesn’t want to pay the increased tax on millionaires. He made it clear that he planned to renounce his French citizenship. How nice that he found a friend in a quasi-dictator.
They really show who they are when asked to support the recovery of their country from a horrible recession – love their country while they take take take. I find it sad because I have enjoyed every movie of his that I have seen.
Real life actions of people do change the world view of them. I used to watch all the repeats of “everybody loves raymond” until Patricia Heaton attacked Sandra Fluke – haven’t watched it since and won’t watch Depardieu again either. Not that it gives them grief – but if “every little helps” and it is repeated millions of times – who knows.
Pres. Obama is bowling w/First Daughters at lanes @MCBHawaii, reports pool, who is being far held away from the strikes & spares.— Eddie Gehman Kohan (@ObamaFoodorama) January 04, 2013
I freaking loooooooooooooooooooooove VP Biden. I watched the whole senate swearing in and he was fantastic from beginning to end. It reminded me of the campaign days and the stories that would pour out about how he was charming grandmas, middle-aged women and heck even young women in all the states he traveled to. He might have single handedly sewn up the grandma vote for Team Obama-Biden; that’s how he good he was and still is.
Sen. Carl Levin (D-Mich.),
Sen. Mark Pryor (D-Ark.),
Sen. Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.).
Sen. Max Baucus (D-Mont.),
Sen. Jack Reed (D-R.I.),
Sen. Barbara Boxer (D-Calif.)
Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.)
Where did you get the list from? I’m sure there are Repubs as well. But these Dems need to be given a pep talk. I’m surprised that Schumer is not on the list seeing that he had endorsed the Levin-McCain plan.
I don’t know why they are holding out, but I have the uttermost trust in one of my Senators, Barbara Boxer. If I may hazard a guess, I think these are all veterans who are thinking long term. What if in 2014 or 2016 Republicans take over the Senate Who then would stop their idiotic policies? I know the Republicans have abused the filibuster. But there are situations where the filibuster might save the country from destructive radical right wing policies. Four of the senators on the list (Carl Levin, Patrick Leahy, Jack Reed and Barbara Boxer) have been some of the most dependable Democrats. I am not ready to second guess their reluctancy because I am certain that they know more about how the Senate operates than I do. Asa matter of fact, Sen. Leahy is now the Senate President Pro Temp, which means that he is the most senior member of the Democratic caucus. He is also 4th in line (after the VP and the House Speaker, and Sec. of State) to be President. His reluctancy tells me that he is concerned about the long time implications if Democrats end up up being in the minority, but still with sufficient numbers to use the filibuster to block obnoxious GOP legislations.
I don’t mind bringing back the old filibuster tactics immortalized by “Mr. Smith goes to Washington.” I do, however worry about totally abandoning the filibuster. Democrats will not always be the majority in the Senate. Just my two cents!
I believe that’s what Carl Levin is thinking. He’s been there a long time and there are few things I’ve ever disagreed with him on. I would respect his hesitation.
I understand why they would be conflicted but we have suffered these foolish stupid filibuster tricks for 4 years! They have obstructed and played games with our democracy and it has cost our nation a great deal.
What makes you think that the ReThugs want change the filibuster we they become the majority. Repubs are power hungry, and to believe they want change the filibuster rules when they get a chance is a bit ……………………
I have heard these names also and was surprised that the California Senators are not showing more political courage. The demographics are on our side IF the Congress can get stuff done that Obama supporters want. Merkley and Udall are just calling for a talking filibuster, not getting rid of it entirely. Anyone with one of these Democrats as their Senator should lobby hard to have them support the talking filibuster. It’s the best thing that could happen to chip away at the Republican roadblock in the Senate.
Judith, I don’t think this has anything to do with “political courage.” I don’t know of any other U.S. Senator who has more political courage than Sen. Barbara Boxer! As I said above, their reluctance may be about their long view of politics. There is no guarantee that Democrats will always be in a majority. There may come a time when filibustering is absolutely crucial to prevent enacting odious laws. I am convinced that they believe that it’s important not to sacrifice short term gains for what may turn out to be long term losses! I tend to agree with them.
Nathkatun7 – The Merkley/Udall proposal does not get rid of the filibuster. It just makes it real by requiring that the Senator take the floor and actually talk rather than just threatening verbally. I see no downside to this and hope the Democrats change it to what the public assumes happens anyway.
Eight more states won conditional approval Thursday to operate healthcare exchanges under President Obama’s healthcare law.
California, Hawaii, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico, Vermont and Utah will run state-based exchanges, while Arkansas will run a partnership exchange, officials said.
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) also issued guidance for states considering a partnership exchange, in which the marketplace will be operated jointly by state and federal officials.
Thursday’s announcement brings the total number of states approved to fully or partially operate their marketplaces to 20, with 18 running state-based exchanges and two planning to partner with the federal government.
Cruz is on Kudlow talking about shutting down the government. Cruz concluded by saying he was looking forward to being on his show often in the future.
He will join other RWNJs as a 1 term wonder – shame it has to be a 6 year term. The come to make money and do damage to their country and their fellow man – nothing else interests them – he seems to have already forgotten those who elected him.
Take it from me, Cruz is absolutely disgusting. I was so dishardened when he won against Dewhurst. Didn’t want either but this guy is mostly hot air with absolutely no ideas. He’s all bluster with no substance. But, yet again we send another extremist to Congress. I so wish this state would wake up. I remember when we were a blue state. It’s very sad.
Someone should introduce a bill to dock the pay of members of Congress who are deliberately for shutting down the government. I also think people like Cruz should be expelled from Congress because they violate their oath to protect and defend the CONSTITUTION!. Cruz need to go back and read the Preamble of the Constitution which established the Federal government.
If this evil man is not interested in government then why the hell did he run for the Senate? Sometimes I am overwhelmed by the idiocy of these right wingers! “Hello, Ted Cruz, as a member of the United States Congress you are part of the GOVERNMENT!!!!”
You would think that Cruz, who is a supposedly smart lawyer, would know that the United States government is made up of three branches: the Legislature (Congress); the Executive (President); and the Judicially! You just can’t be against the government when you are actually part of the government. The utter hypocrisy of people like Cruz is mind boggling!
Tonight in the Rewrite, @Lawrence will explain why it was a BFD for Obama to sway Republicans to raise taxes in fiscal cliff deal. #lastword— The Last Word (@TheLastWord) January 04, 2013
Pres. Obama is bowling w/First Daughters at lanes @MCBHawaii, reports pool, who is being far held away from the strikes & spares.— Eddie Gehman Kohan (@ObamaFoodorama) January 04, 2013
Bowling, POTUS bowling!!!! I remember during the 08 campaign POTUS wasn’t to good at bowling. But it is so nice to see him spending quality time with Sasha and Malia, and I’m glad the pool press is being held far away. Good. He’s the President I know, but he also is a husband and father.
And I should have added – Boehner & Cantor have no idea or interest in doing the job they are paid to do. Sen Reid, without the antics, just quietly carries on the governance.
Yep, very interesting. Thanks Bobfr and other who brought this to TOD.
I don’t quite understand how what Senator Reid is actually workable/possible,
but apparently it is. I’ll keep listening and learning. Forward.
Bob4r I watched it yesterday it was a clinic, but I think people must see his opening segment as well, Lawrence went to school on what PBO accomplished and trashed any emprog arguing PBO *caved* http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/45755883/ns/msnbc-the_last_word/#50349590 Its a must watch 9 minutes of destruction of any and all pundits/reporters, a true site to behold!
I think a lot of the media loves Pete because his wonderful photographs brings clicks, views, and shares to their Internet pages. And apart from the revenue, the photographs capture the essence of humanity. It’s a win-win situation with the Obama-Biden Presidency.
What crazy bad socialism did Mitch McConnell slip into the Cliff deal? Answer @TheLastWord at 10pm.— Lawrence O'Donnell (@Lawrence) January 04, 2013
How hard is it to get Repubs to vote for 39.6 top tax rate? Wicked hard! When Clinton tried, he failed. Obama-Biden did it. @TheLastWord— Lawrence O'Donnell (@Lawrence) January 04, 2013
Tonight's Rewrite: the time taxes did kill jobs and Dems fixed it without a single Repub vote. @TheLastWord at 10pm.— Lawrence O'Donnell (@Lawrence) January 04, 2013
I’ve been thinking that the change in Ed came after he was invited to the WH a couple months ago. In the past, iirc, only Rachel and Keith Olbermann got an invitation. If this is the case, it’s amazing how some people react to a little extra attention. If Ed decides to go over the cliff in the future, he’ll hear from us on Twitter, for sure.
Starting this week, millions more women will have access to preventive services w/o co-payments or deductibles under #ACA. #herhealth— Senator Patty Murray (@PattyMurray) January 03, 2013
WaPo: Whom do you blame for Washington’s difficulties in making a debt deal? Repubs 71%; Both 17%; Dems 12%; Neither or Other 1% N=29,779— meta (@metaquest) January 04, 2013
Wow, those stats are insane? I’ve never seen this strong opinion of Dems/Repubs. That’s due to the terrific PR work by POTUS and Dems. And it emphasizes that all the Sunday morning talk shows with McCain matter little.
Wow. Great numbers. I’m curious to see if President Obama’s job approval numbers will go up. We can certainly expect him to lose a couple of points because the constantly disappointed “left”, but I hope that will be more than compensated by excellent approval numbers from everybody else ( the Obama “base”, moderates, and independents).
One of the best stories about him is he once said in a committee hearing that when caribou went on a “date” they would go over to a pipeline and if the warm oil stopped flowing he was concerned the caribou would be adversely affected.
Is it true, as friend of mine told me, that Louie Gohmert was a former judge before he was elected to Congress? Any way I will look it up and hopefully answer my own question. From what I’ve seen of him the guy is a total imbecile!
I wonder about this too—–something bad happened to Ayotte somewhere along the way
Kelly Ayotte R-NH. Votes against aid to Sandy victims. What's wrong with this woman? Next time, vote her out.— Rich Marcello (@RichMarcello) December 30, 2012
“something bad happened to Ayotte somewhere along the way.”
Answer: she hooked up with John McCain and Lindsey Graham! That’s what happened to her. I hope the people in New Hampshire are paying attention. She needs to be defeated in 2016!
I have been thinking of what I can do about what occur in Newtown, because I don’t want to see the media run to another story and forget about what happen in Newtown., Conn.
Breaking:"Illinois Senate committee approves state's gay marriage bill,10th state to allow gay marriage."— ChicagoNews24 (@chicagonews24) January 04, 2013
Can you imagine the impact if individual students and classrooms all over the country took up this ‘fight’ (without prompting from their elders) and ran with it? I bet the NRA could be silenced if such a young student ‘uprising’ (elementary, not high school) gained momentum and snowballed all over the country! Oh for a young insightful thinker and mover to get the ball a-rolling. I wish this writer had thought to encourage or challenge other youngsters to get involved. After all, it’s the world THEY will inherit.
It would make no difference to the emotionless NRA, but I think it would make a difference to their pocket book. The difference would result as the children’s protest pushed the adults AND thus the politicians, forcing them to make relevant changes. It won’t happen of course, but the idea has taken root in my head after reading that 7th grade letter, and being reminded of how Occupy and Tahrir square built. Maybe if I knew a social conscious, intelligent youngster in the States I could have dropped a word in his/her ear to be the spark or start the spark. Oh well. I trust the Pres and his Admin to find a way to make their own spark.
Yeah, and who better to lead the way than our children? Think of the poetic justice of it too, since the adults in their world haven’t been able to stand up to the NRA and get sensible changes made into law. Remember ‘a little child shall lead them’? Really, the more I think of it, the more I see it as being able to touch the right nerve that would force the necessary changes. I’ll stop since it’s nothing more than an idea that I’m not in a position to push.
Coincidentally I went back to check my twitter interactions and this was there. I don’t agree with all the implications but I certainly agree with the overall message.
WASHINGTON — The Senate postponed debate on reforming the filibuster Thursday, as advocates cited the support of 48 senators for eliminating the silent filibuster using the so-called constitutional option, a measure that requires 50 votes plus that of the vice president.
During a briefing on Capitol Hill, Sens. Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) and Tom Udall (D-N.M.) updated reporters on their joint effort, which is also being shepherded by Sen. Tom Harkin (D-Iowa).
The remaining seven within the Democratic caucus who have yet to sign on are Sen. Carl Levin (D-Mich.), Sen. Mark Pryor (D-Ark.), Sen. Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.). Sen. Max Baucus (D-Mont.), Sen. Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Sen. Barbara Boxer (D-Calif.) and Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), a source familiar with the whip count told The Huffington Post.
…snip…
“I believe we have 51 votes to utilize the constitution and go forward with rules change,” Udall said, implying that enough of the remaining seven would swing their way to push them over the top. If the chamber was deadlocked at 50-50, Vice President Joe Biden, who supports filibuster reform, would break the tie.
Congressional investigators are wrapping up an inquiry into the accounting practices of Apple and other technology companies that allocate revenue and intellectual property offshore to lower the taxes they pay in the United States.
The Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations inquiry now drawing to a close began more than a year ago and involves at least a half dozen technology companies, according to people with firsthand knowledge of it, who declined to be identified.
Those people said the subcommittee had subpoenaed or otherwise asked the companies to explain methods they used to avoid domestic taxes. They said Apple had become a focus of the inquiry and was cooperating with the subcommittee, which is expected to issue wide-ranging recommendations that are likely to play a significant role in Congressional tax code negotiations.
Apple’s domestic tax bill has drawn the interest of corporate tax experts and policy makers because although the majority of Apple’s executives, product designers, marketers, employees, research and development operations and retail stores are in the United States, in the past Apple’s accountants have found legal ways to allocate about 70 percent of the company’s profits overseas, where tax rates are often much lower, according to corporate filings.
That last paragraph made me think, AGAIN, what’s wrong will the well-to-do that they can happily milk a country’s assets without feeling the least need to want to give something back? They use and abuse resources that make their lives easier, yet try to deny the possibility for doing so to others. So many of them are so selfish and self-centred.
A retired man went into the Job Center in Downtown Dallas, TX and saw a card advertising for a Gynecologist’s Assistant.
Interested, he went in and asked the clerk for details.
The clerk pulled up the file and read; “The job entails getting the ladies ready for the gynecologist. You have to help the women out of their underwear, lay them down and carefully wash their private regions, then apply shaving foam and gently shave off the hair, then rub in soothing oils so they’re ready for the gynecologist’s examination.”
The clerk then commented that the annual salary is
$65,000, and that the job applicant would have to go to Des Moines, IA
“Good grief; is that where the job is?”
“No, sir — that is where the end of the line is right now.”
On another topic, last night when we watched the news and there was the story of Hillary leaving the hospital, etc., my R-husband said, “I don’t think she will ever testify about Benghazi.” I bit my tongue because I wanted to say, “I bet she will testify before the right apologizes for what they said about her and her illness.” Instead, I said, “I think she will testify.” Conversation ended. Do you all think she will testify before she leaves? For the record, I do.
Hi TnMtnG: My answers are ..a) I wouldn’t want to see any of the pictures of the slain Sandy Hook victims released. The mental images are horrendous enough. Plus, I have no confidence in the media or the whack-a-doodles in the public using those pics respectfully. Think of the survivor children who were there, it they were to stumble upon such images. IMO we need to find other ways to wake up the conscience of the nation. See the suggestion I made earlier of concerned students starting a campaign to ask the adults to protect them – I think that could and would have great emotional appeal.
b) As one of @Lawrence’s guest pointed out last night (I can’t remember her name, but it seems she used to work for SOS previously), Hillary has never been afraid to respond during previous Senate investigations, so she wouldn’t be now.
Thanks, vc. That’s my thinking on both subjects. I ‘get’ what E. Till’s mother did and respect her decision and it did work to lead to some change/awakening—-then. Today, with the media as it is, it’s a different situation.
I have NO desire to see six and seven year old precious little angels bodies blown to smitherens. I know that many in our country are desensitized to such violence and I suspect many of the gun-loving NRA members and gang bangers would not be phased. These people want guns so they can do the same thing to children, women, adults, elders it doesn’t matter to these people. Just the fact that this happened to children, near christmas time by a mentally ill person whose parent bought this gun and taught him how to use it, should be enough to ban these guns permanately like Australia did……only we are a blood thirtsty nation. I bet those vampire movies do better in the USA than in any other country….sorry for my rant vering off a bit.
As far as SOS Clinton, she will testify and the Fox News watchers (what’s left of the ones who still watch that garbage) will learn that the RWNJS IN THE HOUSE WHO NEEDED TO CUT THE EMBASSAY’S BUDGET AFTER SOS CLINTON AND OTHERS BEGGED FOR MORE SECURITY NEED TO TAKE RESPONSIBILITY TOO.
Dear Liberals: Stop Complaining my New Year’s resolution: I’m going to read less liberal grousing about Barack Obama thebea.st/WfCt93— The lovely Plains (@DaRiverZkind) January 03, 2013
No Obama #Hawaii visit is complete without shave ice. Pres & daughters enjoying that now after bowling. (I suggest coconut-vanilla combo.)— PETER MAER (@petermaercbs) January 04, 2013
aloha anniebella~
shave ice is usually flavored with local fruit syrups, such as guava, passionfruit, or pineapple. the ice is shaved rather than crushed, so the texture is very fine and the flavors are absorbed into the ice. it’s served in a cone, like snow cones, but often has a scoop of ice cream added. it is super cold with strong fruity flavor. ono! (that means delicious!)
well, i’ll be happy to show you around if you come to the big island. the president is on the main island, oahu, and that’s where most tourist facilities are located, around honolulu. all the islands are beautiful, and have special qualities, so you will want to visit again!
Aloha Susanne. Shave Ice must be yummy! I love passionfruit. I really need to save money and come visit Hawaii! From all the pics of the place, it looks like you guys have so much fun.
It just doesn’t taste the same anywhere else…..In Hawaii it is totally delicious…..I’ve tried other imitations…they don’t work.
Like gelato tastes the best in Italy…..attempts here are just not the same.
My husband loved the vanilla/coconut shave ice too. One more reason to visit Hawaii.
Oh my goodness, that video of VP Biden is much too funny! You know right around election day there was talk as to whether VP Biden might make a run for the Presidency in the future. After watching that video of him I feel like there is no way he could run for President…he is way too flirty! Can you imagine if POTUS spoke like that? I think to be in the position of POTUS Biden would have to be so restrained that he would not be able to be his fun loving self.
Technically, the baby is now also Senator RT @ajjaffe: Murphy's office just sent around this photo of the swearing-in: http://t.co/J7MZzLTW— Molly Redden (@mtredden) January 03, 2013
LOL! so true loving. Actually, I don’t think too many VPs could’ve gotten away with this even as VP. Can you imagine snarled-face Dick Cheney or tight-assed Gore trying to flirt like that? Only Uncle Joe can get away with this.
I think we will have a good jobs report tomorrow. Otherwise PBO wouldn’t have planned to be in Hawaii thru Saturday. Most likely, he already knows the numbers and is satisfied with them. He’s enjoying his vacation with family as he deserves. Also, VP Biden was in a super good mood today, so he’s probably not anticipating bad news tomorrow either.
Personally, I think he would have gone to Hawaii even if he knew the jobs numbers were going to be disappointing. What could he do to change the facts of the prior month? He’s doing everything in his power to boost the economy, but he’s got a group of louts in Congress that he’s got to work with. He deserves the break, and his family deserves some uninterrupted time with him – good jobs numbers or not.
Howard Dean gave no consideration to UI for the unemployed and the fact that PBO needed to compromise since the repugs control the House. I don’t understand the PL sometime. Howard Dean knows better.
He didn’t sound like he does COS – He complained because the GOP stuck to their own crazy ideas – and then complained because the President DIDN’T stick to the far left ideas – absolute internal contradiction in what he is saying – which he does not recognize.
I changed to the Comedy Channel. LOL. Why someone who readily admits that he doesn’t understand economic policy keeps trying to add his two cents into any conversation about it is beyond me, and obviously, beyond HD, too. He was a governor, a difficult job, but he needs to realize that running a national government consisting of 50 states is 1,000,000 times more difficult than being responsible for one state.
Let Howard Dean run again for President and show us how he would negotiate with right wing lunatics intent on destroying the country. Howard Dean is another of those born again, holier than thou, purity progressives. When he was Governor of Liberal Vermont he governed as a conservative Democrat. Howard Dean became a darling of the purity left because of one issue and one issue alone: His opposition to the war in Iraq. But on many other issues he was actually to the right of John Kerry.
New White House Petition Demands That Obama Mint A Trillion Dollar Coin To Avert A Debt Ceiling Crisis #mintthecoin read.bi/132tmiE— Joseph Weisenthal (@TheStalwart) January 04, 2013
300+ Million guns in America guarantee that more Americans will die of gun violence in 2013 than all American KIA in Afghanistan & Iraq Wars— Bobfr (@Our4thEstate) January 04, 2013
Hello Bob – each tweet you send, is one tweet closer to getting rid of the guns. Those on the right who say it can never be done – belie all they say about American exceptionalism and what Americans can do.
Lawrence O’Donnell gave figures tonight – Over 400 deaths by guns since the children died – 20 days ago. I don’t know what VP Biden will do but am firmly convinced the parents of those who died must be part of the push for gun control for it to succeed. Whether they can handle or want that fight is yet to be known. I am sure they are still bereft and mourning their loss.
In my world, the fight was lead by the man who lost his 2 daughters in the slaughter. He would not take no for an answer. He went on and on, until he won. It is very difficult to debate with a man who lost his wife and 2 daughters in an unprecedented display of gun violence. The gun lobby tried – but they could not win. The President knows the politicians cannot do this alone – it needs a powerful force of people to defeat the NRA.
“In my world, the fight was lead by the man who lost his 2 daughters in the slaughter. He would not take no for an answer. He went on and on, until he won. It is very difficult to debate with a man who lost his wife and 2 daughters in an unprecedented display of gun violence.”
Exactly, 99.
Millions of us Americans will not allow the horror of #SandyHook and the now more than 400 gun deaths since to not be avenged by enacting comprehensive #GunContol in America. But, if it is left to only one of us to be unrelenting, I’ll be that person.
Oldest swiss bank to close permanently after pleading guilty to helping Americans evade their taxes & paying a big fine. bbc.co.uk/news/business-…— (@amk4obama) January 04, 2013
Do you guys catch Lawrence O’Donnell rewrite tonight? I hope the whining liberals heard what O’Donnell said. If it can be posted please do so, it is worth listening too.
Do you notice….those that still go to the orange satan site that they don’t post ANY Lawrence O’Donnell shows unless it’s a very rare ANTI-OBAMA show. I think early last year LO did a few unwarranted negative Obama shows or had Shuster on with his BS about what the President hasn’t been doing.
Yes – that’s typical of emowhiners…discard sound, fundamental information that goes contrary to their desired anti-Obama narrative, while running away with unsophisticated opinions of clueless agenda-driven pundiots.
We have to remember that emoprogs are dedicated to their way of being:
critical, whiney, looking cool, taking no responsibility, making other people wrong. Seems to me that
they enjoy their stuff; and they don’t get what it’s costing them.
They miss out on integrity, fair play, clear vision, the gifts that come from being responsible.
They’re marching to a different drummer. They are quite reflexive in their behaviors.
I don’t mean to be all righteous about this. My intention in speaking to it is to make
sure we make the best possible use of our own energies and talents, and, honestly,
don’t waste too much on the emoprogs. PBO sweats them ~not at all~, is my guess.
You make some good points, Sara! The problem, however, is that the emoprogs and PL are given the nationally amplified megaphone by the media to blast the President and confuse his supporters. This is why I think we need strong voices to push back against them. I personally no longer watch Cable news programs. But I run into so called Obama supporters who do and who think the President is betraying them. I come to this place because I know people like Utaustinliberal, Donna dem, Hopefruit2, Chi, Amk and others are fearless in exposing the bad faith of the emoprogs/PL pundits who dominate the airwaves attacking the President while pretending to be his supporters. It’s to this space, and POU and TPV that I send people who are confused by the so called Obama supporters who never miss a chance to attack him; sometime just over rumors and manufactured media group think. At least here and the other blogs they can read the pragmatic analyses that push back against the attacks on the President by the emoprogs/PL!
Yes, that was a great rewrite. He really called all the emos who talk about “caving” on the carpet. What the president has to do is what is best for the country, a concept evidently foreign to the ideologic left, and of course to all the right.
Some people are never satisfied, anniebella. They want what they want when they want it and will accept nothing less. They are quick to forget with whom the president has to negotiate, and they quickly forget how often he wins in these negotiations when they say he has failed. I’ve stopped paying attention to them. I don’t have the energy to do it anymore. I always remind myself that those who scream the loudest are often those who do the least–they don’t volunteer, they don’t donate to the president’s or other dems’ campaigns, and some of them don’t bother to vote or they throw their vote away on some wacko candidate like Roseanne Barr or Ron Paul to show how “pure” their political ideology is. The best thing they do is run their mouths.
I saw a note earlier that squarepeg was going to leave us… to squarepeg, please don’t go. If someone pisses you off, which they will, just start scrolling past them… And scroll past when people post mark knoller-wank tweets, and when they quote that Jodie-pos, but please don’t go!
{{{{{squarepeg}}}}}
amen! we’re all human here, and we all get a little tetchy some days. since this is a safe place, sometimes our warts show. please don’t give up on the obama diary, because the very best folks are here, and some of us are having very good days of lucidity, and reason, and humor. it happens!
“Peeps need to develop thicker skin and thinner ego.”
AMK, I am with you 100%! I’ve seen people disagree with you and blast some of your comments. You always stand your ground. But I don’t remember you threatening to quit coming here over those attacks and disagreements. With all due respect to squarepeg and all her supporters, I still don’t know who personally attacked her to make her quit posting. Vigorous disagreement with what she posted should not be interpreted as an attack on her personally. It’s also clear that she has many admirers who are not at all shy calling people they disagree with “PBO baby sitters.” I bet you some one with a thin skin would have quit this place for the insult that their vigorous defense of the President is so insignificant that it can either be ignored or derided with the dismissive label of “PBO baby sitters.”
Holy fucking shit! Lawrence’s ‘Rewrite’ was hands down one of the best he’s ever done. Any liberal who chooses to listen to the whiny pundits and emoprogs about Pres. Obama’s negotiating skills is a FOOL.
The BFD Pres. Obama got in the fiscal cliff deal was bloody genius. I want Barack Obama negotiating any deal for me. ANY deal. The man is badass.
He was even more amazing yesterday explaining the near impossibility of the feat that the Pres pulled off. You were not on Twitter yesterday but Lawrence revealed that only 19 Republicans voted for GHW Bush’s tax hike in 1990/91 and most of them lost their subsequent elections. yet pres Obama got 40 Republican senators to vote for his much larger tax hike. Lawrence is just bowled over. Even more so he can’t understand why Liberals don’t realize that this accomplishment is such a big fucking deal. Ah well.
But the likes of Krauthammer & Limbaugh know exactly what the President has done. And they are scared shitless.
I really need to end personal boycott and get back to watching Cable news shows! I missed both LO’s segments. Hopefully, Chips will post clips tomorrow. My right wing paper was not very happy with what they called the Republican “capitulation on raising taxes in a recession.” That’s what’s so puzzling why the so called progressives are so angry with the President. If the right wingers are so unhappy with the deal how could that be interpreted as a win for the Republican party?
Limbaugh raved about what the President achieved while calling out the GOP – Howard Dean whinged because the President should have let the country go over the cliff – something weird going on when I agree with Limbaugh
Those who “disapprove” keep talking about that the president will have no leverage on the debt ceiling…..have they forgotten the HUGE defense cuts in the sequester which will take place in two months if no action is taken? I have no doubt PBO will hold those tight and use them in the right way to get the debt ceiling raised, if he has to. They just never anticipate him, and he always is ahead of the others. Imagine the yelling from little Lindsey and Grumpy McCain if all those cuts go through!!!
Why is it still earsplitting for me to hear Howard Dean, who unsuccessfully ran for President, giving advice to two-termer President Barack Obama? Maybe I should improve my coping skills, because I really don’t want to give up listening to “some” political chatter, if for no other reason than to keep up with the mindsets of his party loyalists aka “supporters.”
I must add Nancy Smash. She has been an unrelenting supporter, as has Debbie Wasserman-Schultz. There may be a couple more, but I definitely agree it’s a very tiny list. We are so lucky that President Obama rose to the top, like cream in our coffee, to lead the country, instead of one of the lesser beings.
Amk, that’s not entirely true! If you read papers, both leaders Pelosi and Reid have been very supportive of the President. The Democratic votes in both chambers show that the vast majority of Democrats had the President’s back. It’s the electronic media that showcases Democrats in Congress and outside Congress who are quick to attack the President. These are minorities within the party. The vast majority of Democratic members of Congress still support the President.
Two suggestions Jacqueline: 1 When you have any opportunity to listen or read anything Howard Dean has to say – DON’T; and 2. When you have any opportunity to listen or read anything Howard Dean has to say – DON’T.
Loved that! (He did say it was a win for the President, “but not for the policies,” so I got sucked in by the “win” part and continued listening before realizing my mistake, although he was more reasoned this time for Howard Dean. Not gonna do that much more in the future; i.e., WON’T.)
‘ Watson was able to get a good snapshot of the president and exchange a few words. “I wished him a Happy New Year, and he wished me a Happy New Year in return,” he said.
The president also shook little Eloise’s hand. “And I’m never going to wash my hand again!” she said.
The whole visit took just about eight minutes. Handshakes done, Obama stepped into the SUV and the motorcade headed back to the Kailua compound where the First Family is staying.
Although the visits are becoming routine, they’re not becoming old hat. “He shakes hands with everybody and gets right in line,” said Whaley. “So he’s getting used to the order of everything and we’re getting used to having the president come by. So it’s really cool.”
The president’s shave ice? According to Souza, “Regular cone, no ice cream on the bottom. Melona, lemon lime and cherry.” ‘
yes it is! it’s far from my house (thank heaven) but we get a whiff of the smoke sometimes–just a little reminder of our miniscule time and place in the story of the cosmos.
the current eruption has been ongoing for 30 years, sometimes spectacularly, and at times very minimally. but yes, it bubbles in a cauldron, and seeps from smoky cracks in the side of the hill, snaking down to the coast. it has wiped out villages, roads, beaches– the only time it has been deterred, according to contemporary accounts, was when queen emma stood before the oncoming flow and chanted to the godess pele to stop it.
Truly. I don’t know why the people of Israel keep him there. I guess, like GWB, he gives them a false sense of security…..what he offers is exactly the OPPOSITE. Sad to me…they deserve better.
Off to bed…it’s working on 2am….the big dog is pacing and pestering! (Great Dane…not the husband! He’s already snoring away, I’m sure) See you tomorrow, and thanks for the geology lesson!
good read from the new yorker, spitting mad about the sandy legislation:
‘ House Republicans didn’t simply forget about the Sandy-relief legislation in the excitement of the fiscal-cliff deal. The bill stalled and died because many of them—joined by key conservative activists and think tanks—flat out opposed the version the Senate passed. They opposed it because, they said, half—or more—of the sixty billion dollars of funding contained in the bill was what they called “pork.” A more accurate term would be “foresight.” The legislation might not have paid, specifically, for the ConEd station to be moved, or the hospitals’ backup power systems to be consolidated, but it would have paid for other kinds of forward-thinking measures, and that was the funding conservatives had a problem with. ‘
JUST IN: Sonia Sotomayor will administer the oath of office to Joe Biden on the 20th and 21st. Roberts will swear in Obama.— HuffPost Politics (@HuffPostPol) January 04, 2013
Dec. Jobs Numbers: 155K added, unemp. rate 7.8%. Oct. revised up +14K. Nov. revised up +15K to 161K jobs. 25K jobs gained in manufacturing.— Nerdy Wonka (@NerdyWonka) January 04, 2013
Dec Jobs Numbers: Construction +30K (best in over a year), Manufacturing +25k, Retail +19K, Healthcare +45K. About 2M jobs added in 2012.— Nerdy Wonka (@NerdyWonka) January 04, 2013
Hey
Congrats Angela on #1!
Thanks Hopefruit
Yay Angela! First! Good on ya, mate!
Love Joe!
Uncle Joey is a special kind of somebody. Anyone who dares to say no, please find a framed pic of crying Boehner’s face in your mailbox.
Yes he is. He has my undying loyalty for having POTUS’ back at all times.
Gotta love Joe!
Mine too…
Joe’s amazing…
He has my loyalty too, sherijr! If VP Joe Biden decides to run for POTUS in 2016 he will have my total support!
Could not agree more! I have as much love and respect for him as for PBO, and I love the fact that their friendship is always obvious.
His mother must be smiling down in heaven. What a great VPOTUS. Here’s to hoping that the 113th session of Congress renews his Violence Against Women Act.
I cannot recall a better partnership between POTUS and Veep than our two gems – Obama and Biden!
Neither can I, Judith! And my memory goes as far back as JFK and LBJ!
That’s my Joe!
Is that old lady trying to hit on Joe?
I ain’t mad at her!
Joe seems to be trying to hit on all the ladies – talk about a womanizer!
Who can blame her! Joe is such a people person.
Riiiiiiight!
NEWLY CROWNED R. SENATOR TED CRUZ JUST CAN’T WAIT TO CRITICIZE PBO ON CNN’S WOLF BLITZER…DESCRIBING THE LATEST EVENTS AS A ‘LOUSY DEAL’….CRUZ SAYS HE’LL BE GLAD TO WORK WITH THE PRESIDENT IF HE’S ‘PRODUCTIVE.’ WOW…MR. FIRST DAY INFLATED EGO IS IN FOR A CRUSHING SURPRISE!
Silly Cruz will find out sooner or later that being a senator requires more than preening and posing for the cable TV camera.
VERY ARROGANT YOUNG MAN…HE’LL SCREAM SOPRANO WHEN HIS FRUIT OF THE LOOMS ARE TWISTED!
Really awful guy…
Has this creepy, twisted, sadistic thing about him…
But he’ll soon be put in his place…
We call piss ants!
The idea of a junior Senator saying he wil allow himself to work with the POTUS if it is productive is hilarious. PBO will not give him the time of day. Cruz is going to be a pain in the neck. He is as dogmatic as Rand Paul but more egotistical, smarter, and loves the camera even more.
HE’S GOING TO BE A PAIN FOR SURE…WOLF SAID HE’S ALREADY PEGGED AS A RISING STAR IN THE PARTY…..LOLLLLLLLLL…ALGAE GATHERING IN A SEWER!
They needed a study for something that we already knew.
Some people are in denial.
Just in case you missed it at the bottom of the last thread, thank you Dudette, Desertflower and Linda
Hi! I missed that! You’re very welcome. Hope it helped!
Yes it helped. thank You
Send in The Biden! And must say I’m so happy to have my former CT Fifth District Rep, Chris Murphy, as our new Senator from CT.
Yay!
Gato
http://www.partyandsoul.wordpress.com
Freaking awesome. Does it head to the House now or has the House passed it too?
The day will come when all 50 states will have marriage equality enshrined in the law and it will be a wonderful day indeed.
congrats angela
Joe is charming!!! So down to earth and welcoming….
Right on!!
Yeah!!!
Thank you so much hopefruit for posting this! It’s so apropos! This is honestly spooky because after I saw Joe Biden’s video welcoming new Senators I was thinking of requesting either Dudette or Yardarm to post this since I have absolutely no clue how to do it. In my book, Quincy Jones is a musical genius.
We seem to like the same ‘people’ stories, you and I, LovelyP.
I commented on that earlier, was it today, or was it yesterday? Hanging out in TODville messes with my sense of time.
I ran across it yesterday, like you I have no clue where, once you enter TOD its a time warp! on a side note Captain Kirk tweeted an astronaut today and the man in space tweeted back!!! What a great world we live in.
This just tickles me silly! I love it!
Aw man that is TOO cool!
Love it, a stellar moment!
Indeed! There’s so much we take for granted now that wasn’t around or possible even a decade ago.
Oh, I love that story. My experience of PBO on a few occasions is that he makes CONTACT with people. When given the chance and an opportune moment, he CONNECTS. He’s just a very, very sweet man.
Billionaire US investor Warren Buffett is taking a $2.5bn (£1.5bn) bet on solar energy, acquiring what is set to become the largest photovoltaic development in the world.
MidAmerican Energy Holdings, a subsidiary of Mr Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway investment company, has struck a deal with SunPower to acquire and build two projects in California’s Antelope Valley.
The deal, which will see MidAmerican pay between $2bn to $2.5bn, marks the third time in little over a year that Mr Buffett has ploughed cash into solar energy.
He last year created a unit within Mid American to support an increasing number of solar and wind investments.
Work on the projects will begin within the next few months and construction is expected to be completed by the end of 2015.
SunPower, which is 66pc-owned by France’s Total, will remain involved in the construction and operation of the projects.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/newsbysector/energy/9777016/Warren-Buffett-to-build-worlds-largest-solar-energy-project.html
Buffett gets it. He knows what’s going to be powering the future and smart energy policies and companies are most definitely the future. I’m excited to watch the progress.
I wish he’d bought and reorganized Current…
Cleaned house (taken out the trash: Cenk Ugyur, David Shuster, Elliot Spitzer, Bill Press, Gavin Newsom) and turned it into a stellar (credible) progressive network…
Al Jazeera only paid 400 million for it…Warren could have done it easily…
In a way I now get why most wealthy liberals won’t invest in many of these ‘progressive’ media outlets…most are run and operated by some of the most mediocre, craven, shallow, narcissistic opportunists who mostly delight in the sound of their own voices…
Embarrassing..
allright. I’m off to go see Les Mis. Got my kleenex. see yez
As we left the theatre, my cousin: “Sheesh, I should’ve taken anti-depressants before coming to see this!”
just got back. fan-flippin-tastic.
My 4 grown kids and families spent the week of Christmas in a condo together in S. Lake Tahoe. Good times! We divided up on Christmas Day evening and went in three directions to movies. My two daughters and my granddaughter and I went to Les Miz, my 2 sons and a daughter-in-law went to The Hobbit, while my daughter’s fiance and my son’s wife went to the new Tarrentino movie. We came back weeping and humming, the Hobbit goers came back in hobbitmode, while the Tarrentino watchers came back disgusted in too much gratitous violence. I kept hearing them say buckets of blood. My youngest daughter studied opera in Europe for a year towards her music major and she liked the Les Miz movie. That is saying a lot since she is normally critical in the area of her expertise.
I vote for the Geico piggy – Maxwell.
On second thought I think Maxwell might be an O’bot, so that wouldn’t work.
Nooooooooooo, not Maxwell! He’s cool beans!
Yup – I like him too – used to find him annoying at first, but he has grown on me.
Perhaps a clown car.
Sorry…he hasn’t grown on me…still annoying.
LMAO! Have you seen the most recent one with the flight attendants on the airplane? I love that one.
I do too.
That’s the truth, on so many levels.
Way to go, Angela!
Hey TODobots, is celebrating ‘birthdays’ a new WordPress thingy? I noticed a champagne glass in my message box (as opposed to a sort of square) so clicked to check it out and saw this message accompanying a sort of celebratory wreath …
“You registered on WordPress.com 2 years ago!
Thanks for flying with us. Keep up the good blogging!”
I never got any message after year 1.
I got the celebratory message, but I don’t remember a champagne glass… you must be special!
I didn’t get anything after year 1, either – maybe it’s a new thing?
Thanks for answering, Theo. I was beginning to think I was imagining things as no one responded – you know, let’s humour the one seeing and hearing things.
The glass was at the spot where the little light comes on when someone replies directly to your comment. In fact, it is still there to the left of the avatar that accompanies the message. Did you get your message recently?
I think I got my message 2 or 3 months ago. There probably was an icon of some sort, because I wouldn’t have known to look for messages…
That makes sense. My champagne glass was probably due to the festive season (AND WordPress people needing to occupy themselves by fiddling).
You’re just a special one, VC!
I don’t know, Theo.
I can easily see some here nodding and admitting ‘VC’s SPECIAL alright!’ ‘Special’ has its connotations that are not always special to me and make me quite satisfied with being ordinary 
You back at work after the hols?
My body is back at work, but the brain is still in flight…
Which one gets paid?
The body – although, I think my job thinks they’re paying for the brain…
Because that “Big govt.” is just so bad! http://www.cnn.com/2013/01/03/us/ice-child-abuse-arrests/index.html
Thank goodness for ICE
Kristen Gillibrand’s son decides swearing in was a good time to muss her hair
http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/politics/2013/01/senators-kids-steal-the-show-at-mock-swear-in/
I am inclined towards the 45-60 age set for POTUS. I hope she begins to gain more exposure.
Who was that elderly lady that Vice-President Biden kept joking with?
That is Senator Barrasso’s -R Wy mother.
I saw that…she told Joe she loves Dick Cheney…..
Yikes.
Somebody’s mother! (I think it was Barasso)
Thanks guys
Hey, this might be a way to get rid of some assholes in our country
Putin Gives Depardieu Russian Passport
http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/headlines/2013/01/putin-gives-depardieu-russian-passport/
M. Depardieu doesn’t want to pay the increased tax on millionaires. He made it clear that he planned to renounce his French citizenship. How nice that he found a friend in a quasi-dictator.
Yes. Critical Thinking 101.
They really show who they are when asked to support the recovery of their country from a horrible recession – love their country while they take take take. I find it sad because I have enjoyed every movie of his that I have seen.
Real life actions of people do change the world view of them. I used to watch all the repeats of “everybody loves raymond” until Patricia Heaton attacked Sandra Fluke – haven’t watched it since and won’t watch Depardieu again either. Not that it gives them grief – but if “every little helps” and it is repeated millions of times – who knows.
Talk about childish petulant idjit. And he is a way too overrated actor to boot.
I always thought he was repugnantly ugly. I could not get the casting of him in Green Card.
Quality time with Dad. Nice!
ZOINKS! It just hit me — this is the bowling alley on the Marine base at Kaneohe! I’ve been there! Rolled a few gutterballs! LOL
PBO and the girls are walking in my footsteps! I’m honored to have blazed a trail for them!
Great memory (especially now!).
I freaking loooooooooooooooooooooove VP Biden. I watched the whole senate swearing in and he was fantastic from beginning to end. It reminded me of the campaign days and the stories that would pour out about how he was charming grandmas, middle-aged women and heck even young women in all the states he traveled to. He might have single handedly sewn up the grandma vote for Team Obama-Biden; that’s how he good he was and still is.
Here are the filibuster reform hold outs.
Sen. Carl Levin (D-Mich.),
Sen. Mark Pryor (D-Ark.),
Sen. Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.).
Sen. Max Baucus (D-Mont.),
Sen. Jack Reed (D-R.I.),
Sen. Barbara Boxer (D-Calif.)
Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.)
All Dems. Any idea what they are holding out for?
No…but I will start calling tomorrow…
Where did you get the list from? I’m sure there are Repubs as well. But these Dems need to be given a pep talk. I’m surprised that Schumer is not on the list seeing that he had endorsed the Levin-McCain plan.
When I called Udall office earlier..the woman said she could not tell me who they were but she hinted that HuffPuff had the list.
I just went and checked and it is the main story right now.
Okay – thanks.
I don’t know why they are holding out, but I have the uttermost trust in one of my Senators, Barbara Boxer. If I may hazard a guess, I think these are all veterans who are thinking long term. What if in 2014 or 2016 Republicans take over the Senate Who then would stop their idiotic policies? I know the Republicans have abused the filibuster. But there are situations where the filibuster might save the country from destructive radical right wing policies. Four of the senators on the list (Carl Levin, Patrick Leahy, Jack Reed and Barbara Boxer) have been some of the most dependable Democrats. I am not ready to second guess their reluctancy because I am certain that they know more about how the Senate operates than I do. Asa matter of fact, Sen. Leahy is now the Senate President Pro Temp, which means that he is the most senior member of the Democratic caucus. He is also 4th in line (after the VP and the House Speaker, and Sec. of State) to be President. His reluctancy tells me that he is concerned about the long time implications if Democrats end up up being in the minority, but still with sufficient numbers to use the filibuster to block obnoxious GOP legislations.
I don’t mind bringing back the old filibuster tactics immortalized by “Mr. Smith goes to Washington.” I do, however worry about totally abandoning the filibuster. Democrats will not always be the majority in the Senate. Just my two cents!
Probably because one day the Dems will be the minority party in the Senate. Hopefully, not for 20 years, of course!
What is their reasoning for this holdout?
I don’t know yet….but we really only need 3 of them or 2 of the plus Biden….
They are afraid if republicans ever get in power, they will dismantle the federal government with majority only vote and turn us into Somalia.
I believe that’s what Carl Levin is thinking. He’s been there a long time and there are few things I’ve ever disagreed with him on. I would respect his hesitation.
I understand why they would be conflicted but we have suffered these foolish stupid filibuster tricks for 4 years! They have obstructed and played games with our democracy and it has cost our nation a great deal.
What makes you think that the ReThugs want change the filibuster we they become the majority. Repubs are power hungry, and to believe they want change the filibuster rules when they get a chance is a bit ……………………
I have already emailed Harry Reid and Diane Feinstein, but did not know about Barbara Boxer.
Just wrote to my senator, Barbara Boxer”
I’m curious about the California hold-outs. It will be interesting to see whether they’re holding out for a stronger solution.
I have heard these names also and was surprised that the California Senators are not showing more political courage. The demographics are on our side IF the Congress can get stuff done that Obama supporters want. Merkley and Udall are just calling for a talking filibuster, not getting rid of it entirely. Anyone with one of these Democrats as their Senator should lobby hard to have them support the talking filibuster. It’s the best thing that could happen to chip away at the Republican roadblock in the Senate.
Judith, I don’t think this has anything to do with “political courage.” I don’t know of any other U.S. Senator who has more political courage than Sen. Barbara Boxer! As I said above, their reluctance may be about their long view of politics. There is no guarantee that Democrats will always be in a majority. There may come a time when filibustering is absolutely crucial to prevent enacting odious laws. I am convinced that they believe that it’s important not to sacrifice short term gains for what may turn out to be long term losses! I tend to agree with them.
Nathkatun7 – The Merkley/Udall proposal does not get rid of the filibuster. It just makes it real by requiring that the Senator take the floor and actually talk rather than just threatening verbally. I see no downside to this and hope the Democrats change it to what the public assumes happens anyway.
Thanks Judith for that Clarification. In that case, I absolutely have no concerns. I will write both of my Senators to urge them to support that.
Eight more states won conditional approval Thursday to operate healthcare exchanges under President Obama’s healthcare law.
California, Hawaii, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico, Vermont and Utah will run state-based exchanges, while Arkansas will run a partnership exchange, officials said.
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) also issued guidance for states considering a partnership exchange, in which the marketplace will be operated jointly by state and federal officials.
Thursday’s announcement brings the total number of states approved to fully or partially operate their marketplaces to 20, with 18 running state-based exchanges and two planning to partner with the federal government.
The Hill-
Cruz is on Kudlow talking about shutting down the government. Cruz concluded by saying he was looking forward to being on his show often in the future.
This Cruz fella is sounding more and more ridiculous…did he run for US Senate, or for a reality TV show?
He will join other RWNJs as a 1 term wonder – shame it has to be a 6 year term. The come to make money and do damage to their country and their fellow man – nothing else interests them – he seems to have already forgotten those who elected him.
Take it from me, Cruz is absolutely disgusting. I was so dishardened when he won against Dewhurst. Didn’t want either but this guy is mostly hot air with absolutely no ideas. He’s all bluster with no substance. But, yet again we send another extremist to Congress. I so wish this state would wake up. I remember when we were a blue state. It’s very sad.
He’s a Tea Party Cuban – expect him to get constant airplay bashing the President.
He is a Cuban born in Canada, so the Senate is as high as he can go. Kudlow just said he is going to be a “star”. We will be sick of him very soon.
I’m already there!
Has Kudlow ever been right about anything?????
No, he still calls himself a supply sider. CNBC is no better than FOX but with a little more faux “sophistication”.
He’ll go the way of Alan Grayson and Anthony Weiner.
Someone should introduce a bill to dock the pay of members of Congress who are deliberately for shutting down the government. I also think people like Cruz should be expelled from Congress because they violate their oath to protect and defend the CONSTITUTION!. Cruz need to go back and read the Preamble of the Constitution which established the Federal government.
If this evil man is not interested in government then why the hell did he run for the Senate? Sometimes I am overwhelmed by the idiocy of these right wingers! “Hello, Ted Cruz, as a member of the United States Congress you are part of the GOVERNMENT!!!!”
You would think that Cruz, who is a supposedly smart lawyer, would know that the United States government is made up of three branches: the Legislature (Congress); the Executive (President); and the Judicially! You just can’t be against the government when you are actually part of the government. The utter hypocrisy of people like Cruz is mind boggling!
Wonder if it’s raining there
Bowling, POTUS bowling!!!! I remember during the 08 campaign POTUS wasn’t to good at bowling. But it is so nice to see him spending quality time with Sasha and Malia, and I’m glad the pool press is being held far away. Good. He’s the President I know, but he also is a husband and father.
Remember, they tried to practically make it a scandal because he couldn’t bowl. The Arugula Days.
Oh, don’t forget the Grey Poupon idiocy….
There’s a bowling alley in the WH, so maybe he’s been “working on his game” and now is the greatest bowling president of all time.
I’m sure time with his babies (who sure aren’t babies anymore!) is the best therapy out there! Even if they do soundly beat him at bowling.
Chips, everyone, an important report of what Senator Reid managed to accomplish for the President, yesterday …
Rewriting the idea of a do-nothing Senate – http://video.msnbc.msn.com/the-last-word/50349848
BBL …
Watched that late yesterday Bob – the whole show was a delight
And I should have added – Boehner & Cantor have no idea or interest in doing the job they are paid to do. Sen Reid, without the antics, just quietly carries on the governance.
Typo corrected …
This was a fantastic segment Bob!
Yep, very interesting. Thanks Bobfr and other who brought this to TOD.
I don’t quite understand how what Senator Reid is actually workable/possible,
but apparently it is. I’ll keep listening and learning. Forward.
Bob4r I watched it yesterday it was a clinic, but I think people must see his opening segment as well, Lawrence went to school on what PBO accomplished and trashed any emprog arguing PBO *caved* http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/45755883/ns/msnbc-the_last_word/#50349590 Its a must watch 9 minutes of destruction of any and all pundits/reporters, a true site to behold!
Yikes, Scandal fans. I just saw a clip of the season opener and it is not pretty. Gird yourselves.
Also, last two episodes are replaying tonight.
OMG…I can’t wait!!!
Wheeeeeeee!!
Yikes!
BBC looooooves Pete Souza.
I think a lot of the media loves Pete because his wonderful photographs brings clicks, views, and shares to their Internet pages. And apart from the revenue, the photographs capture the essence of humanity. It’s a win-win situation with the Obama-Biden Presidency.
I thought it was pretty cool that Souza said that this photo was POTUS’ favorite.
Is this part of your autobio?
I adore Vice President Biden, he is so much like one of the deacon’s (he is not as “friendly” though…lol) at my church.
The Last Word is going to be good tonight.
Will definitely tune in – thanks ut!
Wolfeeeeeeee is going to be on Ed’s Show. I loved that man, Richard; I like Ed..lol.
Folks get your cellphones – I wanna know: Is Richard Wolfe Sexi? Text “A” for yes, “B” for no. We’ll bring you the results later in the show.
Yes….yes….yes……yes……yes……yes…. Holy chocolate on a stick, Richard Wolffe is HOT…..HOT…..HOT and his intelligence just makes him sexier.
You are only allowed one vote. Giving several answers is considered a spoilt ballot which will not be counted in the final tally.
Wow, I must try and find a clip of this man in action. Stat.
Veddy veddy saxy (bonus: Britsh accent)
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA
Ed explanation of the debt ceiling and who is responsible for it was excellent. Rethungs can go suck some eggs!
But really, how long can we count on Ed remaining onside?
Gotta wait and see if he stays put until the ball is snapped, eh?
Well, he has proven to be a bit twitchy in the past.
No doubt. I guess that’s why he rides the “pines” a lot.
I’ve been thinking that the change in Ed came after he was invited to the WH a couple months ago. In the past, iirc, only Rachel and Keith Olbermann got an invitation. If this is the case, it’s amazing how some people react to a little extra attention. If Ed decides to go over the cliff in the future, he’ll hear from us on Twitter, for sure.
Interesting observation. I had forgotten about that. He has been on a different tact since I think on it.
I’ve gotten off that Ed rollercoaster – permanently.
Thank you ObamaCare.
Yet they want to try the same crap in the debt ceiling deal? Hahahahahaaha.
Wow, those stats are insane? I’ve never seen this strong opinion of Dems/Repubs. That’s due to the terrific PR work by POTUS and Dems. And it emphasizes that all the Sunday morning talk shows with McCain matter little.
Wow. Great numbers. I’m curious to see if President Obama’s job approval numbers will go up. We can certainly expect him to lose a couple of points because the constantly disappointed “left”, but I hope that will be more than compensated by excellent approval numbers from everybody else ( the Obama “base”, moderates, and independents).
I wonder about this too—-who are these people???
One of the best stories about him is he once said in a committee hearing that when caribou went on a “date” they would go over to a pipeline and if the warm oil stopped flowing he was concerned the caribou would be adversely affected.
Is it true, as friend of mine told me, that Louie Gohmert was a former judge before he was elected to Congress? Any way I will look it up and hopefully answer my own question. From what I’ve seen of him the guy is a total imbecile!
ha!
Great little story: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/gary-s-chafetz/shaking-hands-with-obama-_b_2395462.html?utm_hp_ref=tw
Oh, my. Well, that made tears squirt out of my eyes.
I wonder about this too—–something bad happened to Ayotte somewhere along the way
Let’s hope no disaster happen in N.H., and Ayotte’s state need help.
Yes, dotster – Maybe when she met up with McCain somewhere along the way.
“something bad happened to Ayotte somewhere along the way.”
Answer: she hooked up with John McCain and Lindsey Graham! That’s what happened to her. I hope the people in New Hampshire are paying attention. She needs to be defeated in 2016!
Gov Malloy’s Office confirms that Gabby Giffords will visit Newtown tomorrow afternoon to meet with the families of gun violence victims.
I think you can count on some of the parents from Newtown who lost children will be sitting with the First Lady during the State of the Union speech.
Good point, anniebella. Yes, I’m sure they will have a place of honor as POTUS presses ahead for legislation.
I have been thinking of what I can do about what occur in Newtown, because I don’t want to see the media run to another story and forget about what happen in Newtown., Conn.
Well at least were good for something, eh?
What do you call an alligator that wears a vest?
An investigator.
How does Moses make his tea?
Hebrews it!
The Past, The Present and The Future walked into a bar.
It was tense.
What’s red and bad for your teeth?
A brick
/
Ha, take that blog tyrant.
Nothing like a good grammar joke. Ha!
I like these!
I love jokes like these bah ha !
hahahahaha!
Hahahahahahahaha. Hilarious.
HAHAHAHAHAHAHA
ROFL
Citizens working for what they believe in. I do think Pres can, with support and focused help like this, alter the hold the NRA has on America
AWESOME!
Can you imagine the impact if individual students and classrooms all over the country took up this ‘fight’ (without prompting from their elders) and ran with it? I bet the NRA could be silenced if such a young student ‘uprising’ (elementary, not high school) gained momentum and snowballed all over the country! Oh for a young insightful thinker and mover to get the ball a-rolling. I wish this writer had thought to encourage or challenge other youngsters to get involved. After all, it’s the world THEY will inherit.
It would make no difference to the ignorant NRA. Those knuckle draggers are a one trick pony. SOS!
It would make no difference to the emotionless NRA, but I think it would make a difference to their pocket book. The difference would result as the children’s protest pushed the adults AND thus the politicians, forcing them to make relevant changes. It won’t happen of course, but the idea has taken root in my head after reading that 7th grade letter, and being reminded of how Occupy and Tahrir square built. Maybe if I knew a social conscious, intelligent youngster in the States I could have dropped a word in his/her ear to be the spark or start the spark. Oh well. I trust the Pres and his Admin to find a way to make their own spark.
To really accomplish something, Citizens United and ALEC need to be neutralized.
Yeah, and who better to lead the way than our children? Think of the poetic justice of it too, since the adults in their world haven’t been able to stand up to the NRA and get sensible changes made into law. Remember ‘a little child shall lead them’? Really, the more I think of it, the more I see it as being able to touch the right nerve that would force the necessary changes. I’ll stop since it’s nothing more than an idea that I’m not in a position to push.
GOD will!
Coincidentally I went back to check my twitter interactions and this was there. I don’t agree with all the implications but I certainly agree with the overall message.
Me too. Good lookin’ out vc.
http://www.democraticunderground.com/1014355857
On Filibuster Reform, Advocates Claim Momentum
WASHINGTON — The Senate postponed debate on reforming the filibuster Thursday, as advocates cited the support of 48 senators for eliminating the silent filibuster using the so-called constitutional option, a measure that requires 50 votes plus that of the vice president.
During a briefing on Capitol Hill, Sens. Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) and Tom Udall (D-N.M.) updated reporters on their joint effort, which is also being shepherded by Sen. Tom Harkin (D-Iowa).
The remaining seven within the Democratic caucus who have yet to sign on are Sen. Carl Levin (D-Mich.), Sen. Mark Pryor (D-Ark.), Sen. Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.). Sen. Max Baucus (D-Mont.), Sen. Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Sen. Barbara Boxer (D-Calif.) and Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), a source familiar with the whip count told The Huffington Post.
…snip…
“I believe we have 51 votes to utilize the constitution and go forward with rules change,” Udall said, implying that enough of the remaining seven would swing their way to push them over the top. If the chamber was deadlocked at 50-50, Vice President Joe Biden, who supports filibuster reform, would break the tie.
VP Biden is priceless!!! What a flirt!!!
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/01/04/business/an-inquiry-into-tech-giants-tax-strategies-nears-an-end.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0
Congressional investigators are wrapping up an inquiry into the accounting practices of Apple and other technology companies that allocate revenue and intellectual property offshore to lower the taxes they pay in the United States.
The Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations inquiry now drawing to a close began more than a year ago and involves at least a half dozen technology companies, according to people with firsthand knowledge of it, who declined to be identified.
Those people said the subcommittee had subpoenaed or otherwise asked the companies to explain methods they used to avoid domestic taxes. They said Apple had become a focus of the inquiry and was cooperating with the subcommittee, which is expected to issue wide-ranging recommendations that are likely to play a significant role in Congressional tax code negotiations.
Apple’s domestic tax bill has drawn the interest of corporate tax experts and policy makers because although the majority of Apple’s executives, product designers, marketers, employees, research and development operations and retail stores are in the United States, in the past Apple’s accountants have found legal ways to allocate about 70 percent of the company’s profits overseas, where tax rates are often much lower, according to corporate filings.
That last paragraph made me think, AGAIN, what’s wrong will the well-to-do that they can happily milk a country’s assets without feeling the least need to want to give something back? They use and abuse resources that make their lives easier, yet try to deny the possibility for doing so to others. So many of them are so selfish and self-centred.
Time for a laugh. In demand employment?
A retired man went into the Job Center in Downtown Dallas, TX and saw a card advertising for a Gynecologist’s Assistant.
Interested, he went in and asked the clerk for details.
The clerk pulled up the file and read; “The job entails getting the ladies ready for the gynecologist. You have to help the women out of their underwear, lay them down and carefully wash their private regions, then apply shaving foam and gently shave off the hair, then rub in soothing oils so they’re ready for the gynecologist’s examination.”
The clerk then commented that the annual salary is
$65,000, and that the job applicant would have to go to Des Moines, IA
“Good grief; is that where the job is?”
“No, sir — that is where the end of the line is right now.”
OMG!!!! so funny I gotta spell it all the way out. Laugh Out Loud!!!
And people complain about my jokes. /eyeroll.
You’re the first one.
ROFL!!!!
Ya see. Voting is not the only thing that can cause a long line.
Rachel is fun tonight – saying goodbye to those leaving congress
“Goodbye to Scott Brown – don’t let the door hit you on the way out”
The one dangling on the corner looks like he finished off the other guy’s bottle – so cute!
Okay then. ROTFLMAO!
Loved the letter about the pecans and sending $130 donation. On the subject of gun violence, I heard this editorial this morning on the radio. Just now had a chance to find it so I could share a link. Some of you live in the DC area and may have heard it when Jim Vance did it. I would appreciate feedback from you all.
http://newsbusters.org/blogs/ken-shepherd/2012/12/29/nbc-washington-anchor-suggests-grisly-crime-scene-photos-newtown-shoul.
On another topic, last night when we watched the news and there was the story of Hillary leaving the hospital, etc., my R-husband said, “I don’t think she will ever testify about Benghazi.” I bit my tongue because I wanted to say, “I bet she will testify before the right apologizes for what they said about her and her illness.” Instead, I said, “I think she will testify.” Conversation ended. Do you all think she will testify before she leaves? For the record, I do.
Hi TnMtnG: My answers are ..a) I wouldn’t want to see any of the pictures of the slain Sandy Hook victims released. The mental images are horrendous enough. Plus, I have no confidence in the media or the whack-a-doodles in the public using those pics respectfully. Think of the survivor children who were there, it they were to stumble upon such images. IMO we need to find other ways to wake up the conscience of the nation. See the suggestion I made earlier of concerned students starting a campaign to ask the adults to protect them – I think that could and would have great emotional appeal.
b) As one of @Lawrence’s guest pointed out last night (I can’t remember her name, but it seems she used to work for SOS previously), Hillary has never been afraid to respond during previous Senate investigations, so she wouldn’t be now.
Thanks, vc. That’s my thinking on both subjects. I ‘get’ what E. Till’s mother did and respect her decision and it did work to lead to some change/awakening—-then. Today, with the media as it is, it’s a different situation.
I have NO desire to see six and seven year old precious little angels bodies blown to smitherens. I know that many in our country are desensitized to such violence and I suspect many of the gun-loving NRA members and gang bangers would not be phased. These people want guns so they can do the same thing to children, women, adults, elders it doesn’t matter to these people. Just the fact that this happened to children, near christmas time by a mentally ill person whose parent bought this gun and taught him how to use it, should be enough to ban these guns permanately like Australia did……only we are a blood thirtsty nation. I bet those vampire movies do better in the USA than in any other country….sorry for my rant vering off a bit.
As far as SOS Clinton, she will testify and the Fox News watchers (what’s left of the ones who still watch that garbage) will learn that the RWNJS IN THE HOUSE WHO NEEDED TO CUT THE EMBASSAY’S BUDGET AFTER SOS CLINTON AND OTHERS BEGGED FOR MORE SECURITY NEED TO TAKE RESPONSIBILITY TOO.
Hi Dudette,
It did help. That is why i am responding so late. I was looking at the convention thread for the last two hours. Thanks again
Great! You’re welcome again dear! Enjoy!
What does shave ice taste like? Is it just sold in Hawaii?
aloha anniebella~
shave ice is usually flavored with local fruit syrups, such as guava, passionfruit, or pineapple. the ice is shaved rather than crushed, so the texture is very fine and the flavors are absorbed into the ice. it’s served in a cone, like snow cones, but often has a scoop of ice cream added. it is super cold with strong fruity flavor. ono! (that means delicious!)
Oh dam I want to try one. If I send you my address could you send me one susanne.
you’re just going to have to come visit, anniebella! and you’re welcome any time
Oh my my, if only I could. To visit Hawaii have been one of my life long dream.
well, i’ll be happy to show you around if you come to the big island. the president is on the main island, oahu, and that’s where most tourist facilities are located, around honolulu. all the islands are beautiful, and have special qualities, so you will want to visit again!
LOL! Anniebella by the time the shave ice reaches your address it will be melt ice!
:)
Aloha Susanne. Shave Ice must be yummy! I love passionfruit. I really need to save money and come visit Hawaii! From all the pics of the place, it looks like you guys have so much fun.
you can find it everywhere some people call them snow cones but Hawaii has shave ice on lock down! http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/12/27/shave-ice-behind-obamas-s_n_153655.html
It just doesn’t taste the same anywhere else…..In Hawaii it is totally delicious…..I’ve tried other imitations…they don’t work.
Like gelato tastes the best in Italy…..attempts here are just not the same.
My husband loved the vanilla/coconut shave ice too. One more reason to visit Hawaii.
Oh my goodness, that video of VP Biden is much too funny! You know right around election day there was talk as to whether VP Biden might make a run for the Presidency in the future. After watching that video of him I feel like there is no way he could run for President…he is way too flirty! Can you imagine if POTUS spoke like that? I think to be in the position of POTUS Biden would have to be so restrained that he would not be able to be his fun loving self.
That pic is adorable! Love it!
beautiful!
Too cute LP. The kid on the bottom’s expression is priceless. Probably traumatized by John the Boehner’s cowardly lion cry.
LOL! so true loving. Actually, I don’t think too many VPs could’ve gotten away with this even as VP. Can you imagine snarled-face Dick Cheney or tight-assed Gore trying to flirt like that? Only Uncle Joe can get away with this.
I think we will have a good jobs report tomorrow. Otherwise PBO wouldn’t have planned to be in Hawaii thru Saturday. Most likely, he already knows the numbers and is satisfied with them. He’s enjoying his vacation with family as he deserves. Also, VP Biden was in a super good mood today, so he’s probably not anticipating bad news tomorrow either.
Personally, I think he would have gone to Hawaii even if he knew the jobs numbers were going to be disappointing. What could he do to change the facts of the prior month? He’s doing everything in his power to boost the economy, but he’s got a group of louts in Congress that he’s got to work with. He deserves the break, and his family deserves some uninterrupted time with him – good jobs numbers or not.
Let me go watch Lawrence O’Donnell Show.
Turn off Howard Dean – what a loser.
Howard Dean gave no consideration to UI for the unemployed and the fact that PBO needed to compromise since the repugs control the House. I don’t understand the PL sometime. Howard Dean knows better.
He didn’t sound like he does COS – He complained because the GOP stuck to their own crazy ideas – and then complained because the President DIDN’T stick to the far left ideas – absolute internal contradiction in what he is saying – which he does not recognize.
Muted him….
I changed to the Comedy Channel. LOL. Why someone who readily admits that he doesn’t understand economic policy keeps trying to add his two cents into any conversation about it is beyond me, and obviously, beyond HD, too. He was a governor, a difficult job, but he needs to realize that running a national government consisting of 50 states is 1,000,000 times more difficult than being responsible for one state.
You are reading my mind. He has passed his expiration date.
Lorraine you made me laugh. You are correct. A whole bunch of these folks fit in that expiration date category.
Now that was funny.
Let Howard Dean run again for President and show us how he would negotiate with right wing lunatics intent on destroying the country. Howard Dean is another of those born again, holier than thou, purity progressives. When he was Governor of Liberal Vermont he governed as a conservative Democrat. Howard Dean became a darling of the purity left because of one issue and one issue alone: His opposition to the war in Iraq. But on many other issues he was actually to the right of John Kerry.
UTaustinliberal, have you seen this 2009 interview with Richard Wolffe?
http://vimeo.com/6943927 juicy delicious.
Bless you Sara!
Thanks so much Sara!
h/t Dudette for the graphic
Hello Bob – each tweet you send, is one tweet closer to getting rid of the guns. Those on the right who say it can never be done – belie all they say about American exceptionalism and what Americans can do.
Lawrence O’Donnell gave figures tonight – Over 400 deaths by guns since the children died – 20 days ago. I don’t know what VP Biden will do but am firmly convinced the parents of those who died must be part of the push for gun control for it to succeed. Whether they can handle or want that fight is yet to be known. I am sure they are still bereft and mourning their loss.
In my world, the fight was lead by the man who lost his 2 daughters in the slaughter. He would not take no for an answer. He went on and on, until he won. It is very difficult to debate with a man who lost his wife and 2 daughters in an unprecedented display of gun violence. The gun lobby tried – but they could not win. The President knows the politicians cannot do this alone – it needs a powerful force of people to defeat the NRA.
“In my world, the fight was lead by the man who lost his 2 daughters in the slaughter. He would not take no for an answer. He went on and on, until he won. It is very difficult to debate with a man who lost his wife and 2 daughters in an unprecedented display of gun violence.”
Exactly, 99.
Millions of us Americans will not allow the horror of #SandyHook and the now more than 400 gun deaths since to not be avenged by enacting comprehensive #GunContol in America. But, if it is left to only one of us to be unrelenting, I’ll be that person.
#FORWARD
So do we get any of their money, as long as they are closing??
Something to make up for all those tax evasions??? huh??
remember the emoprogs’ whining about that spill? beepee paid huge. now transcoean paid big. All happened because of the kenyan muslin.
Lawrence had an awesome Rewrite tonight. I hope all Emos were watching.
Do you guys catch Lawrence O’Donnell rewrite tonight? I hope the whining liberals heard what O’Donnell said. If it can be posted please do so, it is worth listening too.
I hope Chips is able to post it tomorrow morning.
Did you hear him hopefruit2?
Yes it was excellent – as was last night’s segment. And Lawrence is someone who has actually worked on the hill.
So true.
Do you notice….those that still go to the orange satan site that they don’t post ANY Lawrence O’Donnell shows unless it’s a very rare ANTI-OBAMA show. I think early last year LO did a few unwarranted negative Obama shows or had Shuster on with his BS about what the President hasn’t been doing.
Yes – that’s typical of emowhiners…discard sound, fundamental information that goes contrary to their desired anti-Obama narrative, while running away with unsophisticated opinions of clueless agenda-driven pundiots.
Schuster was on Stephanie Miller this morning talking the same old Howard Dean BS about the 400k tax cutoff.
We have to remember that emoprogs are dedicated to their way of being:
critical, whiney, looking cool, taking no responsibility, making other people wrong. Seems to me that
they enjoy their stuff; and they don’t get what it’s costing them.
They miss out on integrity, fair play, clear vision, the gifts that come from being responsible.
They’re marching to a different drummer. They are quite reflexive in their behaviors.
I don’t mean to be all righteous about this. My intention in speaking to it is to make
sure we make the best possible use of our own energies and talents, and, honestly,
don’t waste too much on the emoprogs. PBO sweats them ~not at all~, is my guess.
Well said. Coulda used that advice five minutes ago, when I listened to one!
good advice as per your usual Sara!
Perfection, Sara.
Good night everyone
Oh, and ….
You make some good points, Sara! The problem, however, is that the emoprogs and PL are given the nationally amplified megaphone by the media to blast the President and confuse his supporters. This is why I think we need strong voices to push back against them. I personally no longer watch Cable news programs. But I run into so called Obama supporters who do and who think the President is betraying them. I come to this place because I know people like Utaustinliberal, Donna dem, Hopefruit2, Chi, Amk and others are fearless in exposing the bad faith of the emoprogs/PL pundits who dominate the airwaves attacking the President while pretending to be his supporters. It’s to this space, and POU and TPV that I send people who are confused by the so called Obama supporters who never miss a chance to attack him; sometime just over rumors and manufactured media group think. At least here and the other blogs they can read the pragmatic analyses that push back against the attacks on the President by the emoprogs/PL!
COS, I hope the Emos were watching too. I loved it when O’Donnell said he don’t recall anyone saying Bill Clinton caving.
Yes, that was a great rewrite. He really called all the emos who talk about “caving” on the carpet. What the president has to do is what is best for the country, a concept evidently foreign to the ideologic left, and of course to all the right.
Some people are never satisfied, anniebella. They want what they want when they want it and will accept nothing less. They are quick to forget with whom the president has to negotiate, and they quickly forget how often he wins in these negotiations when they say he has failed. I’ve stopped paying attention to them. I don’t have the energy to do it anymore. I always remind myself that those who scream the loudest are often those who do the least–they don’t volunteer, they don’t donate to the president’s or other dems’ campaigns, and some of them don’t bother to vote or they throw their vote away on some wacko candidate like Roseanne Barr or Ron Paul to show how “pure” their political ideology is. The best thing they do is run their mouths.
I saw a note earlier that squarepeg was going to leave us… to squarepeg, please don’t go. If someone pisses you off, which they will, just start scrolling past them… And scroll past when people post mark knoller-wank tweets, and when they quote that Jodie-pos, but please don’t go!
{{{{{squarepeg}}}}}
amen! we’re all human here, and we all get a little tetchy some days. since this is a safe place, sometimes our warts show. please don’t give up on the obama diary, because the very best folks are here, and some of us are having very good days of lucidity, and reason, and humor. it happens!
Peeps need to develop thicker skin and thinner ego.
Are you casting stones in my direction ….again, Amk?
“Peeps need to develop thicker skin and thinner ego.”
AMK, I am with you 100%! I’ve seen people disagree with you and blast some of your comments. You always stand your ground. But I don’t remember you threatening to quit coming here over those attacks and disagreements. With all due respect to squarepeg and all her supporters, I still don’t know who personally attacked her to make her quit posting. Vigorous disagreement with what she posted should not be interpreted as an attack on her personally. It’s also clear that she has many admirers who are not at all shy calling people they disagree with “PBO baby sitters.” I bet you some one with a thin skin would have quit this place for the insult that their vigorous defense of the President is so insignificant that it can either be ignored or derided with the dismissive label of “PBO baby sitters.”
Holy fucking shit! Lawrence’s ‘Rewrite’ was hands down one of the best he’s ever done. Any liberal who chooses to listen to the whiny pundits and emoprogs about Pres. Obama’s negotiating skills is a FOOL.
The BFD Pres. Obama got in the fiscal cliff deal was bloody genius. I want Barack Obama negotiating any deal for me. ANY deal. The man is badass.
He was even more amazing yesterday explaining the near impossibility of the feat that the Pres pulled off. You were not on Twitter yesterday but Lawrence revealed that only 19 Republicans voted for GHW Bush’s tax hike in 1990/91 and most of them lost their subsequent elections. yet pres Obama got 40 Republican senators to vote for his much larger tax hike. Lawrence is just bowled over. Even more so he can’t understand why Liberals don’t realize that this accomplishment is such a big fucking deal. Ah well.
But the likes of Krauthammer & Limbaugh know exactly what the President has done. And they are scared shitless.
I did watch The Last Word yesterday and talked about it on TOD yesterday. Yes, Lawrence was also wonderful yesterday.
I really need to end personal boycott and get back to watching Cable news shows! I missed both LO’s segments. Hopefully, Chips will post clips tomorrow. My right wing paper was not very happy with what they called the Republican “capitulation on raising taxes in a recession.” That’s what’s so puzzling why the so called progressives are so angry with the President. If the right wingers are so unhappy with the deal how could that be interpreted as a win for the Republican party?
Limbaugh raved about what the President achieved while calling out the GOP – Howard Dean whinged because the President should have let the country go over the cliff – something weird going on when I agree with Limbaugh
Those who “disapprove” keep talking about that the president will have no leverage on the debt ceiling…..have they forgotten the HUGE defense cuts in the sequester which will take place in two months if no action is taken? I have no doubt PBO will hold those tight and use them in the right way to get the debt ceiling raised, if he has to. They just never anticipate him, and he always is ahead of the others. Imagine the yelling from little Lindsey and Grumpy McCain if all those cuts go through!!!
Why is it still earsplitting for me to hear Howard Dean, who unsuccessfully ran for President, giving advice to two-termer President Barack Obama? Maybe I should improve my coping skills, because I really don’t want to give up listening to “some” political chatter, if for no other reason than to keep up with the mindsets of his party loyalists aka “supporters.”
Let’s be very clear. The only true dem supporter all along has been uncle joe. All the rest are there for the show.
I must add Nancy Smash. She has been an unrelenting supporter, as has Debbie Wasserman-Schultz. There may be a couple more, but I definitely agree it’s a very tiny list. We are so lucky that President Obama rose to the top, like cream in our coffee, to lead the country, instead of one of the lesser beings.
I havent seen tonights show yet, but watch this opening segment from yesterday where he destroyed everyone, and from the sounds of it he re-iterated that again tonight http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/45755883/ns/msnbc-the_last_word/#50349590 9 min of pure bliss!
Thanks!
I think this is the link from tonight’s show – hope I have it right
http://www.nbcnews.com/id/49263362#50360131
that absolutely needs an RT
Correct.
Amk, that’s not entirely true! If you read papers, both leaders Pelosi and Reid have been very supportive of the President. The Democratic votes in both chambers show that the vast majority of Democrats had the President’s back. It’s the electronic media that showcases Democrats in Congress and outside Congress who are quick to attack the President. These are minorities within the party. The vast majority of Democratic members of Congress still support the President.
Two suggestions Jacqueline: 1 When you have any opportunity to listen or read anything Howard Dean has to say – DON’T; and 2. When you have any opportunity to listen or read anything Howard Dean has to say – DON’T.
#FORWARD
These are both excellent suggestions, Bob.
Loved that! (He did say it was a win for the President, “but not for the policies,” so I got sucked in by the “win” part and continued listening before realizing my mistake, although he was more reasoned this time for Howard Dean. Not gonna do that much more in the future; i.e., WON’T.)
nitey nite folks!
Good nite a4. I think we’re gonna have to send out the Shore Patrol for Chips.
Amk! You are hilarious! I totally love “sean klannity”
Reality … (and I never thought I’d be giving anywhere near this much credit to Lawrence, but over the past 48 h he has earned it, big time):
#TrustBarack YOU BETCHA!
shave ice report:
‘ Watson was able to get a good snapshot of the president and exchange a few words. “I wished him a Happy New Year, and he wished me a Happy New Year in return,” he said.
The president also shook little Eloise’s hand. “And I’m never going to wash my hand again!” she said.
The whole visit took just about eight minutes. Handshakes done, Obama stepped into the SUV and the motorcade headed back to the Kailua compound where the First Family is staying.
Although the visits are becoming routine, they’re not becoming old hat. “He shakes hands with everybody and gets right in line,” said Whaley. “So he’s getting used to the order of everything and we’re getting used to having the president come by. So it’s really cool.”
The president’s shave ice? According to Souza, “Regular cone, no ice cream on the bottom. Melona, lemon lime and cherry.” ‘
http://www.hawaiinewsnow.com/story/20500746/for-obama-gym-bowling-and-shave-ice
Melona, lemon lime and cherry…that’s an interesting flavor combo.
yes, i’d say ‘blech’ but that would be rude
meanwhile, on ‘my’ island:
http://www.hawaiinewsnow.com/slideshow?widgetid=68605
Goodness sakes! That’s pretty amazing to see…we humans are so small in the scheme of things, aren’t we? Meanwhile, your island…is getting bigger!
yes it is! it’s far from my house (thank heaven) but we get a whiff of the smoke sometimes–just a little reminder of our miniscule time and place in the story of the cosmos.
Well, it certainly is stunning to see…is that volcano just oozing lava all the time?
the current eruption has been ongoing for 30 years, sometimes spectacularly, and at times very minimally. but yes, it bubbles in a cauldron, and seeps from smoky cracks in the side of the hill, snaking down to the coast. it has wiped out villages, roads, beaches– the only time it has been deterred, according to contemporary accounts, was when queen emma stood before the oncoming flow and chanted to the godess pele to stop it.
That’s what I thought:) Didn’t know about Queen Emma/Pele though! Maybe one day I’ll make it over to your beautiful home….
you’re always welcome, and it would be a pleasure to shake your hand!
Try and act surprised. http://www.vancouversun.com/entertainment/movie-guide/Report+Former+Israeli+chief+says+Prime+Minister+Netanyahu/7774099/story.html#ixzz2GzVXtj91
another madman in power, and this one our sworn ally. i don’t envy kerry, who seems a kind soul, having to deal with bibi the ‘bizarre’.
Truly. I don’t know why the people of Israel keep him there. I guess, like GWB, he gives them a false sense of security…..what he offers is exactly the OPPOSITE. Sad to me…they deserve better.
Off to bed…it’s working on 2am….the big dog is pacing and pestering! (Great Dane…not the husband! He’s already snoring away, I’m sure) See you tomorrow, and thanks for the geology lesson!
aloha oe~
sleep well and rise refreshed!
good read from the new yorker, spitting mad about the sandy legislation:
‘ House Republicans didn’t simply forget about the Sandy-relief legislation in the excitement of the fiscal-cliff deal. The bill stalled and died because many of them—joined by key conservative activists and think tanks—flat out opposed the version the Senate passed. They opposed it because, they said, half—or more—of the sixty billion dollars of funding contained in the bill was what they called “pork.” A more accurate term would be “foresight.” The legislation might not have paid, specifically, for the ConEd station to be moved, or the hospitals’ backup power systems to be consolidated, but it would have paid for other kinds of forward-thinking measures, and that was the funding conservatives had a problem with. ‘
Read more: http://www.newyorker.com/online/blogs/comment/2013/01/the-gop-sandy-problem.html#ixzz2GztWuaOZ
Forward thinking and conservative are somewhat contradictory.
I should have said the current house style of conservative – they didn’t used to be this way.
aaaand… good night!
aaaand…good morning, TOD peeps! It’s a sunny morning here in my part of the world. Lifts my spirits…as do Chips and all of you!
Good morning. Sunny in my world too. Let’s all have a sunny day!
And sunny in my world, too! Friday’s good.
Goooooooood Morning everyone
Good Morning Family!
Here’s a fun inaugural tidbit for you!
Lets see if Roberts can remember the oath this time:)
Roberts better not goof up this time. I was so mad at him messing up that historic moment.
Interesting to see if Roberts gets it right this time
I sure hope Roberts learned his lesson from 2009 and doesn’t screw this up. I still believe he did that on purpose.
I know people who believe Cheney was in a wheel chair at the first Inauguration, so he wouldn’t have to stand up for the President.
JOBS NUMBERS
A very solid report!
Good morning …Its Friday…and its good!!!
Yeh baby!!! Good Morning ourmanflint!
OBAMA’s FAULT
Will Romney come out with a statement? LMAO!
Awww isn’t that sad, President Obama hurt the Republicans feelings.
So, why do I feel like laughing, if it’s sad? Mornin’, Don!
First Friday of 2013! Wooooooot!
Moooooooooooorning!
http://theobamadiary.com/2013/01/04/rise-and-shine-391/