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President Obama in the Connecticut Post: As a society, our first task must be to care for our children – to shield them from harm and give them the tools they need not only to pursue their dreams, but to help build this country. That is how we will be judged. And in the wake of the tragedy in Newtown, it’s clear we have a long way to go.
That’s why, last month, I asked Vice President Biden to lead an effort to come up with concrete steps we can take right now to keep our kids safe, help prevent mass shootings, and reduce the broader epidemic of gun violence in this country. And on Wednesday, I put forward a specific set of proposals based on Joe’s recommendations. Because while there is no law or set of laws that can prevent every senseless act of violence completely, if there is even one thing we can do to reduce this violence – if even one life can be saved – we have an obligation to try……
Read the full Op-Ed here
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Today:
11:45: Jay Carney briefs the press
1:30: VP Biden delivers remarks at the United States Conference of Mayors’ 81st Winter Meeting at the Capitol Hilton Hotel in Washington
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USA Today: NEWTOWN, Conn. — In this town where tragedy relaunched the nation’s debate over gun violence, people on all sides of the political divide expressed support Wednesday for President Obama’s proposals to ban assault weapons and establish tighter background checks for gun buyers.
“It shouldn’t be a Democratic or a Republican issue,” said Marsha Moskowitz, a Democrat who supports the president’s proposals. “It’s a human issue. It’s about humanity.”
…. Sandy Hook resident Alan Brown, a gun owner and “a life-long Republican” who voted for Romney, said Obama’s proposals make “a whole lot of sense.” “I don’t think our Founding Fathers who adopted the Second Amendment would have ever wanted Americans to have a machine of mass destruction in their hands,” he said.
…. Newtown resident Trish Dardine, a Democrat, said Obama’s gun-control efforts — “more than the killing of Osama bin Laden” — could be the “greatest act and lasting legacy” of his presidency.
More here
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Michael Tomasky: The GOP Will Lose on Guns – Conservatives’ appalling response to Obama’s gun-control proposals shows just how out of touch they are with America
Among the moon-howling reactions to the president’s surprisingly bold gun-control proposals on the right, the one that most struck me was the boiling indignation that he had the temerity to speak of, and surround himself with, school children …..
…. If those lives were real to you, you try to do something. Obama keeps that one girl’s drawing up on the wall of his private office? Thank God for that. She is real to him; her classmates are real to him, the event is real to him. That he is trying to do all this – up to and including the assault-weapons ban, the executive orders, all with the sure knowledge that the Republicans might not only block him but then find some grounds on which to impeach him – is evidence enough for me that it’s real to him….
Full post here
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Time: As he prepares to pitch an expansive new package of gun restrictions to a bitterly divided Congress, Barack Obama has the majority of voters on his side. A new TIME/CNN/ORC poll finds that 55% of Americans approve of the job Obama is doing as President, compared to 43% who disapprove.
That ratio mirrors the public appetite for tighter restrictions on guns, with 55% of respondents favoring stricter gun control laws and 44% opposed.
…. The new poll also shows that Vice President Joe Biden’s approval rating has spiked to 59%, up from 54% in December…
More here
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E.J. Dionne: President Obama went big in offering a remarkably comprehensive plan to curb gun violence, and good for him …. Far from acting as if his work was now done, the president made clear that he is fully invested in seeing his agenda realized — and fully prepared to lead a national movement to loosen the grip of resignation and cynicism in the face of brutality and carnage…..
…. Most heartening of all was the tone the president took. He did not cast himself as an evenhanded umpire far above the fray, handing down ideas that all people of good will would inevitably accept. He acknowledged that the battle ahead would be difficult. He predicted he would have to fight the lie that his plan constituted “a tyrannical assault on liberty.” And he sought to mobilize a new effort to counteract the entrenched power of those who have dictated submissiveness in the face of bloodshed.
“Enough,” Obama declared, insisting that change would come only “if the American people demand it.”
Will we?
Full article here
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Greg Sargent: GOP officials are greeting President Obama’s announcement of 23 executive actions on guns today as if they constitute an abuse of presidential power not seen since the dark days of Watergate….
Guess who disagrees? The former Solicitor General of the United States … under Saint Ronald Reagan.
“These are either standard exercises of presidential power, or even more benignly, standard examples of the power of the president to exhort the public or state officials to be aware of certain problems and to address them,” Charles Fried, who was Reagan’s solicitor general during his second term, told me today…
More here
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Charles Pierce: Slate’s Dave Weigel helpfully has listed the 23 Executive Orders issued by the president today in connection with his initiative on gun violence. Let us put them all through the helpful NRA Tyranny Translator and see what we get, OK?
1. Issue a Presidential Memorandum to require federal agencies to make relevant data available to the federal background check system.
(The singular of “data” is “tyrant.” Look it up.)
2. Address unnecessary legal barriers, particularly relating to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, that may prevent states from making information available to the background check system.
(You’ll get my schizophrenia when you pry it from our cold dead hands.)
More here
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Other news:
Happy Birthday First Lady!
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Reuters: The number of Americans filing new claims for unemployment benefits tumbled to a five-year low last week, a hopeful sign for the sluggish labor market.
Initial claims for state unemployment benefits fell 37,000 to a seasonally adjusted 335,000, the lowest level since January 2008, the Labor Department said on Thursday. It was the largest weekly drop since February 2010.
More here
…..and:
Reuters: Groundbreaking to build new U.S. homes accelerated in December to its fastest pace in over four years, supporting the view that housing is poised to provide a substantial boost to the U.S. economy.
The Commerce Department said on Thursday that starts at building sites for homes surged 12.1 percent last month to a 954,000-unit annual rate….
More here
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AP: U.S. factory production rose in December for the second straight month, buoyed by more output of autos, electronics and business equipment.
…. The back-to-back gains in factory output offered some hope that manufacturing could be picking up after a weak year. One area that has been notable strong is the auto industry, which ended 2012 with its best sales in five years. Production of autos and parts grew 2.6 percent in December.
More here
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National Memo: How did California go from a projected $26 billion budget deficit to projected surpluses? …. what changed since Jerry Brown was elected in 2010? …. he was able to push through painful cuts that forced Californians to take the budget seriously. But what helped him most was the state’s demographics and shift toward the Democratic Party.
….. the state went for President Obama by a margin of about 10 percent and elected a supermajority of Democrats to the state legislature. Also on the ballot in November were ballot propositions designed to secure more revenue. One temporarily increased income taxes on high earners while temporarily increasing the state sales tax for all Californians to fund education…. Voters said yes to higher taxes.
Just a few months later, Brown announced that for the first time in about a decade, a governor of California was presenting a balanced budget….
More here
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President Obama meets with Denis McDonough, NSC Chief of Staff, at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York, Sept. 23, 2009 (Photo by Pete Souza)
AP: President Barack Obama is likely to name Denis McDonough, one of his closest national security advisers, as his next chief of staff, according to people familiar with the White House thinking. However, White House officials say a final decision has not been made.
In tapping McDonough, Obama would be relying on an inner circle ally for the key West Wing post. McDonough, 43, currently serves as the president’s deputy national security adviser and is highly regarded by Obama and White House staffers.
More here
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NYT: A retired nurse, a 26-year-old who was denied health insurance, a soldier injured in Afghanistan and a laid-off auto worker who got her job back after President Obama moved to rescue the auto industry are among eight “citizen co-chairs’’ of Monday’s inaugural festivities, inaugural planners are to announce Thursday morning.
The co-chairs, all ordinary Americans who have met Mr. Obama during his travels, will participate in Saturday’s National Day of Service and ride a float in the inaugural parade. They will also attend the inaugural balls.
More here
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Morning!
Get on twitter and just do it.
Congrats on first Amk! Good Morning all. Happy Birthday to Michelle Obama, best First Lady EVER!!! Great roundup Chips. Fantastic news today about jobs, housing, manufacturing. I am so happy PBO is our President!!
Moooooooorning Betsy!!
That mount rushmore toon is great. Tweeted.
Loved it too! Morning Amk, morning everyone.
Morning Chips, hf and folks.
B’day cake for a special lady ? hint, hint, nudge, nudge, kick, kick in the heel.
The baking process has begun, should be cooked in, oh, about 8 hours
I am getting out the thumb tacks.
Congrats on #1 amk – I was just about to post this cartoon
Marvelous idea, he certainly deserves the honor and recognition what better place then Mt. Rushmore…..let’s begin the task of having his image among men of honor, integrity so WE NEVER FORGET THIS GIFTED MAN….
Obama Grandmama, from one to another, let’s put PBO imagine in stone, I fear he will not get the glory and recognition he deserves!
Morning Chips, TOD, lurkers, everyone and Happy Thursday!
Mooooooooorning Hopefruit!
Thanks for this excellent round up
I’m excited just reading through everything. Happy Birthday to our FLOTUS!!!
Yup. Great collection. Blog tyrant is getting bettah and bettah.
Chips . . . . . thank you for this extraordinary [as usual] set up this morning.
You know, this ongoing TOD event is a core support element for our incredible President
and our wonderful country like nothing else that I am aware of. And I say it clears a space for the miracles
that are occurring all around, in our own hearts and minds. Forward. xoxox
Well said, Sata..”this ongoing TOD event is a core support element for our incredible President.” Indeed it is. Anytime any of us feel it’s all just too much and nothing can make things better, this site tells us Yes We Can. There is no other place like it, thanks to Chips.
That’s so lovely Jackie, thanks a million. Yes We Can!
Thank you SO much Sara, that was just lovely.
Fantastic toon. Thanks. This is going to be a day of poking reps and senators. Time to get things moving. I’ve had enough of
a paralyzed US House. Let’s tell them we’re fed up.
Happy Birthday, First Lady Michelle Obama and many, many more.
Love this!
stunning!
Lovely picture of the best First Lady, Mrs. Michelle R. Obama. Happy Birthday FLOTUS.
Is there any more doubt
why POTUS has No Public events today?
Hmmm?
Happy Birth Day To You….FLOTUS, Stevie Wonder Style!
GM and Hello Sun Shine to TODville Community around the Globe.
Ms. Chips, Thanks.
Thanks hopefruit2. This is my new desktop image.
Isn’t she lovely? I wish I knew how to look for and post that song. Is it by Stevie Wonder?
Here you go miss pat!
Thanks! I know how to hit play, thank God.
Not just Crist but also Alex Sink and DWS, both of whom would have trailed Scott back in 2010.
Excellent. I predict that most states will have dem governors by 2014. Any one for a twenty?
From your lips to God’s ears, AMK. I intend to do everything in my power to ensure that one Tom “Close your Eyes” Corbett is in the top ten. Then I will contribute $s to fumigate the Governor’s mansion in PA.
dog shit is more acceptable that this this guy right now. I smell toast burning…………..
desertflower, dog sh*t was always better than that crook. Just wondering how the heck did he ever get elected, unless he stood it. And put nothing pass Rick Scott. How is Reagen the dog doing?
Alex Sink was a banker and ran a very poor campaign. We need DWS to stay in DC to help the cause. Hopefully it will be Charlie Crist running against him.
I really hope it’s Crist. He’s the strongest of all the candidates, DEM or Repub.
Maybe the folks in Florida have seen the light. They realize Rick Scott was the worse mistake they could have made.
I lived in Miami for ten years. FL is a very “unique” and diverse state. Many people in FL are low information voters and anything can happen.
Well Bill anything did happen. That thing is name Rick Scott.
I dunno ’bout that anniebella. Us old folks are pretty stubborn and real set in our ways. At least some are.
That Mt Rushmore toon put a smile on my face! We are part of history right now….I have no idea what the future will bring, but right now, I see where we sit and feel empowered. We are the ones we’ve been waiting for! Let’s do this for America and fight for the country that we all deserve to have. GM TOD….it’s a good day! Make those calls!!
I really liked seeing this cartoon as it shows that at least some are considering PBO’s accomplishments as many. I watched PBS’ Frontline about the first term and was very disappointed to see such a negative portrayal of it and from PBS to boot!
Love to POTUS and FLOTUS and all of TOD! SIgning off for a long time to attend the Inauguration and Legacy Conference. Will have pictures eventually, but be thinking of you in the meantime!!
How Cool is that!!
Have the best of times Judith, enjoy every moment!
That’s nuts. You can’t get a bunch of kitty kats to do that. hmmmmm
I am thinking the same thing.
Brought this over. Do you feel safe yet???
http://usnews.nbcnews.com/_news/2013/01/16/16547690-just-the-facts-gun-violence-in-america?lite
GREAT NEWS!! http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/01/17/us-usa-economy-idUSBRE90E0KL20130117
Jobless claims drop to five-year low
BREAKING NEWS: Dec. housing starts up 12.1%, highest since June 2008
Fantastic, thank you DF, added it to the post!
Groundbreaking to build new U.S. homes accelerated in December to its fastest pace in over four years, supporting the view that housing is poised to provide a substantial boost to the U.S. economy.
http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/01/17/us-usa-economy-nstant-idUSBRE90G0O820130117
Interesting…..http://www.balloon-juice.com/2013/01/16/the-best-health-care-system-in-the-world-2/
OH YEAH! http://maddowblog.msnbc.com/_news/2013/01/17/16563635-an-untenable-status-quo-for-the-gop
http://www.creators.com/opinion/connie-schultz/platitudes-won-t-stop-the-guns.html I love Connie Schultz. This may be a bit difficult to read but she wants us to be clear eyed about what really happened.
should be required reading for any legislator anywhere who thinks people should have access to assault weapons and large capacity magazines. How sad and brave of Noah’s mom.
Put this in the WTF folder. Seriously?
http://www.ohio.com/news/break-news/bullets-whiz-past-officers-heads-strike-medina-county-homes-1.365592
MONTVILLE TWP.: Bullets from an AK-47 assault rifle whizzed past officers’ heads and pierced two occupied Medina County homes about 500 yards away, becoming lodged in walls and a microwave.
Montville Township police say panicked homeowners called 911 to report the sounds of rapid gunfire and bullets hitting their houses Wednesday afternoon in the area of Windfall Road east of Interstate 71. The gunfire stopped by the time officers arrived.
Sgt. Matthew A. Neil said the officers determined the gunfire most likely came from the northeast. They began checking fields and open spaces nearby to determine the source of the gunfire.
“A second round of rapid gunfire erupted,” Neil said in a press release. “During this second round of rapid gunfire, an officer reported hearing bullets going over his head, and additional 911 calls from both of the original callers reported that their houses were being struck again.”
Neil said the homeowners were told to take shelter in their basements while additional officers from other departments were called in to find the shooters.
snip/
Officers seized an AK-47 assault rifle with 628 rounds, a 9mm handgun with 50 rounds, a .380 handgun with eight rounds, and a .22 revolver with 40 rounds.
Neil said both men had been drinking and were shooting at paper targets with no back stop. Investigators determined that the bullets that struck the homes traveled about 500 yards.
THIS is responsible gun ownership??? THESE are the very people that should NEVER have weapons. Period.
The same thing happened in Philadelphia about two weeks ago. Some nut shooting at a rooming house and hit a sleeper with 3 bullets; he survived thank God. This just after PBO’s initial speech in Connecticut. I think these people are trying to scare off those of us who approve of regulations. This is where they mark their manhood. Very sad excuses for human beings.
I know I have heard of outraged gun owners organizing and doing walk-byes past schools etc packing their rifles.
The government took more steps on Thursday to shore up the recovering housing market with new rules that provide broader protections and greater clarity for homeowners struggling to pay their mortgages.
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) announced the establishment of a new framework requiring loan servicers to offer a fair process of evaluations along with a clear set of options, such as loan modifications, to help delinquent homeowners avoid foreclosure.
“For many borrowers, dealing with mortgage servicers has meant unwelcome surprises and constantly getting the runaround,” said CFPB Director Richard Cordray, who will announce the rules during remarks in Atlanta on Thursday.
“In too many cases, it has led to unnecessary foreclosures. Our rules ensure fair treatment for all borrowers and establish strong protections for those struggling to save their homes.”
http://thehill.com/blogs/on-the-money/1091-housing/277613-cfpb-
Good Morning TOD and Happy Happy Birthday to our AWESOME First Lady!!
Morning, Ms Chips! Sorry I missed your arrival – was sending around Dudette’s lovely birthday tribute to Michelle O & Betty W to a few girlfriends.
:Oops: Forgot to send it to YOU! Have yourself a lovely Thursday!
BTW – Tell me the truth. You don’t expect ME to read and/or view A.L.L. that you have posted this morning, do you?
You have until the swearing-in, VC!
Phew! You’re all heart. Is this where you hold everything and everyone in one spot?
Mooooooooorning VC!! You’re phenomenal yourself!
I love my TOD Family soooooo much! You ARE phenomenal — every one of you! xoxoxoxoxoxo
I Love it……. Phenomenal Woman
Ms Chips this is a spectacular Rise and Shine today!!
You know Donna, there was so much positive news I needed two internets! Thank you so much – but really, it’s PBO who should take the credit
I needed two internets. LOL.
I did, honest!
Pretty good coverage today, Chips. You did a great job.
You’re very kind Amk, thank you – seriously, there was so much good stuff I didn’t know where to start. Good times.
As California prepares to build the First Leg of HSR in Fresno, newly Appointed House Republucan Chairman says not one more penny for that project from the Federal Government.
In fact, that was his first Statement out of the blocks.
You are Kidding me? The Republicans are so worried about HSR in California that they make it a top priority in the US Congress?
Really?
Ya gotta love Ax’s sense of humor!
Love me some Axe!
Good morning TODers and Chips
Congratulations amk for obama
Thank you so much for the inspirational toon
Everyone have a nice day:)
Chips! This is a monster post! Look at all this posty goodness ~ off I go to tweet! (on my break ….. of course
) Thanks!
Moooooooooorning Alice!!!!
Mooooornin’ t’ ye girlie!
Happy Birthday from My Gov to My First Lady!
How nice of Gov. O’Malley to wish our wonderful FLOTUS a Happy Birthday.
Happy b-day, Miche!
Ps- morning everybody!
This is a really nice article on FLOTUS and her style…
Lessons in style from Michelle Obama
{Snip}
In an image-conscious society, Michelle Obama embodies the importance of honing a signature style and remaining true to it, said Mikki Taylor, editor-at-large of Essence Magazine and author of “Commander-in-Chic: Every Woman’s Guide to Managing Her Style Like a First Lady.” Developing a personal style that fits our lives and our bodies frees us from worrying about what to wear and lets us focus on what really matters.
“She teaches us that to be a commander-in-chic of your life you don’t have to spend a lot of money. It’s not about becoming someone else; it’s about becoming your best self.”
http://www.cnn.com/2013/01/16/living/michelle-obama-style-inauguration/index.html
Love that!!
Good morning folks. Please do not read the comments. Save yourself. I did and it wasn’t pretty.
Happy Birthday, First Lady Michelle Obama.
You are one of the main reasons I’m proud to be an American.
Chips,
I have to agree with the posters above…
this post is epic and informative.
thank you.
Thanks a million rikyrah, so much good news to report! Thanks again.
http://www.theiacp.org/About/WhatsNew/tabid/459/Default.aspx?id=1933&v=1
IACP PRESS RELEASE – STATEMENT OF INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF CHIEFS OF POLICE ON GUN VIOLENCE REDUCTION PROPOSALS
Wednesday, January 16, 2013
Statement of International Association of Chiefs of Police
In response to release of the Obama Administration’s gun violence reduction proposals, the International Association of Chiefs of Police released the following statement.
The International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) commends President Obama and Vice President Biden for the comprehensive package of proposals they announced to combat gun violence. The IACP believes that the proposals and actions reflect an effective, balanced approach to addressing the plague of gun violence in our communities and nation. As this process moves forward, the IACP will continue to work with the Administration, members of Congress, and public safety leaders across the country to enact these much needed reforms.
For many years, the IACP has been a leading voice in efforts to reduce gun violence. Our membership was, and remains, a leading proponent of universal background checks for gun purchases, the ban on military style assault weapons, high capacity magazines, and ensuring that the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) has both a permanent director and sufficient resources to enforce our nation’s gun laws. The adoption of these, and other reasonable measures, will certainly assist in reducing the level of gun violence in our Nation.
Great!!! Tweeted it!
PBO in the driver’s seat.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/page/2010-2019/WashingtonPost/2013/01/16/National-Politics/Polling/release_194.xml
Right where he belongs!!
http://m.apnews.com/ap/db_289563/contentdetail.htm?contentguid=o3lG9kBf
WASHINGTON (AP) – Americans were angrier about last month’s horrific school shooting in Connecticut than they were about the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, according to a new Associated Press-GfK poll.
And more favor stricter gun laws now than did shortly after the shooting deaths of 32 people on the campus of Virginia Tech in April 2007.
Three-quarters of Americans said they reacted to the Connecticut massacre of with deep anger, higher than the 65 percent who said they felt that way in a poll from NORC at the University of Chicago after the 9/11 attacks. A majority, 54 percent, said they felt deeply ashamed that an event like Newtown could happen in the United States, well above the 40 percent who said they felt that way in the wake of the disaster that followed Hurricane Katrina and 35 percent who felt that way after the shootings at Virginia Tech.
The massacre prompted 3 in 10 to give serious thought to whether they could really be safe anywhere these days and 4 in 10 felt strongly that the deaths could have been prevented. Both figures are higher now than after the Virginia Tech shooting deaths.
About a third said that after Newtown, they felt there may be too many guns in this country. A similar share said they worried how the shooting would impact U.S. gun laws.
A smorgasbord of wonderfulness! Chips, you are a star!
Goooood morning everyone! Thank you for your kindness during my most difficult month – I really appreciate all the best wishes and prayers sent my way
I just love and appreciate this beautiful space
UT and Chips, thanks for checking on me – it meant the world to me 
((((HUGS))))
Welcome back, CTGirl. We missed you.
Absolutely wonderful to see you CTGirl, we missed you! I hope you’re doing okay, we know you’ve been through the toughest of times. Hopefully the inauguration and all the celebrations will lift your spirits. Thrilled to see you back!
Good morning, CTGirl!! Lots of hugs to you.
{{{{{{{CTGirl}}}}}}}}}}
Thank you guys! {{{{HUGS}}}}
Good morning Chips and TOD. I have read every single piece of goodness on this thread. What as wonderful way to start the day.
You have outdone yourself. Such a great way to start the day. Will keep pushing to encourage people to call. Since it is cold and flu season, I always recommend the real sudafed. More tightly regulated than most guns: my patients all recognize the absurdity of our gun laws, even gun owners.
REAL Sudafed is the only thing that will take away my sinus headaches (pressure) when I get them. Fortunately the combination of allergy meds my doctor has me on keep me from getting these headaches 90% of the time.
Terrific post, Chips! You knocked it out of the park — AGAIN!
Great Op-Ed from our Great President! Love the cover with him and little Grace! Everything… exceedingly excellent!
Happy Birthday First Lady Obama . You make this Chi-town girl proud. You are a successful classy, compassionate, mother, wife, and First Lady. I love what you are doing for the military. Oh, did I mention you are one of the best role models we have had in the White house in a long time?
http://colorlines.com/archives/2013/01/what_obamas_gun_plan_means_for_mental_health_care.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+racewireblog+%28ColorLines%29
Off to work:) Have a great day everyone!
A THREE-DECADE BINGE ON ANTI-REALITY MOONSHINE
America’s War for Reality
By Robert Parry
———————————–
The real struggle confronting the United States is not between the Right and the Left in any traditional sense, but between those who believe in reality and those who are entranced by unreality. It is a battle that is testing whether fact-based people have the same determination to fight for their real-world view as those who operate in a fact-free space do in defending their illusions.
.
.
But key elements of the American Right have set up permanent residence in the world of make-believe, making any commonsense approach to the real-world challenges nearly politically impossible. The Right’s fantasists also have the passions of true-believers, like a cult that gets angrier the more its views are questioned.
So, it doesn’t matter that scientific evidence proves global warming is real; the deniers will insist the facts are simply a government ploy to impose “tyranny.” It doesn’t matter how many schoolchildren are slaughtered by semi-automatic assault rifles – or what the real history of the Second Amendment was. To the gun fanatics, the Framers wanted armed rebellion against the non-violent political process they worked so hard to create.
——————————————
http://thedailybanter.com/2013/01/americas-war-for-reality/
Indeed. They have become complete cuckoos.
https://twitter.com/amk4obama/status/291925589152129024
Happy Birhday to our dear, dear FLOTUS! Her strength, wisdom, intelligence and true human beauty, and her love, are a gift to us all, every day.
[Deaniac on Dennis-the-Menace!]:
[.....] Not that anyone should really be surprised. Dennis Kucinich and Fox always have shared a common bond and a common belief: that ideological warfare is more important than progress. Or at least, that it’s more profitable. And of course, after you get kicked out of Congress by a real Democrat, it’s not that unusual for profiteering politicians to fall into the loving arms and green contracts of Fox News.
Think about it. What is Dennis Kucinich known for? Howling, being incapable of doing math, and calling for President Obama’s impeachment for his action to save lives in Libya. What is Fox News known for? Howling, being completely inept at math, and calling for President Obama’s impeachment over saving lives in Libya. And, Kucinich is known for voting with Republicans more often than ANY other House Democrat, including, ahem, blue dogs (h/t NYC_Liberal in comments). These two are just like peas in a pod. [.....]
.
More fun here: http://www.thepeoplesview.net/2013/01/professional-lefts-boyfriend-signs-up.html
that is awesome should be read!
Repost. What the hell, the twerp owes us one.
Good morning TODers and Chips. I am dragging this morning; already at the office, but on only my first cup of coffee. Things will improve, I am sure (I brought a thermos of coffee with me). I have to scroll back up to read the comments, but what a FULL post this morning. I can hardly take it all it. Awesome thoughtful things to read. I went first to WH.gov to post my feelings about the criticism of the President for having children present yesterday during the signing of the EO’s. I fervently hope someone reads and passes along my thoughts to Jay before he meets with the hounds from the so-called press this morning. If this subject is brought up, I want him to smack it down hard! It is about the children!!
Oh, and Happy Birthday to the best First Lady ever … I really mean that. I think she is. We are so blessed to have her as our First Lady. I will say a prayer just for her today and hold her in my thoughts. {{{{{Michelle}}}}}
Good Morning Tod;s
The picture with Grace ..just breaks my heart….Thanks a million Chips for this beautiful round of goodness.
Have a wonderful day everyone:-)
~Peace
Goooooood mooooorning ship mates.
Good Morning Yardarm! This brings back memories…My twin sons are West Point Grads!
Good on you. I know you’re proud of them. Probably didn’t believe they could stand so straight or move with so much purpose, eh?
Good morning to you too and to Donna. Yardarm, I have a confession. When I was a little girl, way back in the day in Jamaica, I was afraid of sailors. We were told that they’d get you pregnant because on shore leave one or two of them had left a biracial child behind. So I’d stay clear of them thinking if I spoke to one I’d be in trouble. Silly me. One asked me a simple question and I ran like hell. BTW how do they get the ubiforms so white?
Sea water is the best bleach in the world. Then rinse and wash in fresh water add a little starch and you’re ready.
Sounds good. Now let me get a bucket nd go get some sea water. I wish I knew that. Thanks for clearing that up.
It would also help if you had some salt water soap.
Nothing to add except that I am feeling what everyone here at TOD seems to be feeling today: Joy at the specific events. Best unemployment #s since 2008! POTUS appreciated for his mammoth accomplishments! Future of reducing gun violence very bright!
Michelle Obama in that blue dress and shawl drop-dead gorgeous. Ok maybe the last item is a bit shallow but I am enjoying having a beautiful couple in the WH.
What I am feeling is that this is a time of moving out of darkness into the light. Literally. Huricane Sandy darkness, atrocious massacre violence, tremendous unemployment and fear.
The second inauguration of President Barack Obama is a happy start to four more years of moving this country towards enlightenment. I love my President.
Chips, your post caught the zeitgeist perfectly!!! You are the best and this blog is the only place guaranteed to help us understand what is going on without any negative slant.
Yes. We are moving in a good direction. Well said. And I kept trying to pick a favorite FLOTUS photo and kept getting outvoted by myself, only to pick another one. Then change my mind again. Her beauty is inside-and-out. And their love beams right into the room from the screen. You cannot fake what we see in them; the speeches, the responses to challenge, the way they address issues and work to solve problems, the way they are with their children, and with each other. It is genuine, deep, true. What a glorious example for young people coming along today. And for me!
PBO – 1
NRA – 0
How in the world did I miss cutiepie cutter vid ? Chips, I blame you. Too many goodies today.
Of course, Ed was being his usual assholish pl self in that vid. These loony-left want blood oath in each and everything from PBO while these fuckers yell from the sidelines.
Good Morning everyone!!!
Chipsticks, you outdid yourself today in the round-up.
Happy Birthday to our FLOTUS!!!!
Happy Birthday to Mrs. Michelle Obama, the most, beautiful, incredible First Lady ever!!!
Anyone in MN? Please call Al Franken, he might be in need of a little persuasion.
http://www.washingtonmonthly.com/political-animal-a/2013_01/sign_of_the_times042459.php
Franken, speaking during a press event in Rochester, said he supports limits on ammunition magazines to 10 rounds and tightening the nation’s system of background checks. But, he declined to say whether he supported a ban on assault weapons, a key provision of the president’s plan.
“I guess I don’t have an answer for you,” said Franken spokesman Marc Kimball, following a press conference during which the senator omitted a ban on assault weapons when asked about gun restrictions he might support.
Sen Franken is in support of the ban on Assault weapon…..TMP has the story now.
Wonderful!
Another thing I will say, if I may say so, is that I strongly feel PBO’s polling is artificially deflated by about 5-10 pts relative to the last 5 Presidents. The polling numbers are not comparable because people are encouraged by media (cable & Network TV, Print, Internet) and pollsters to be MUCH more critical of the President than ever before, and conversely STINGY with their praise and approval.
Were Reagan, Clinton and Bush 1 & 2 governing in today’s “blame the President and give him zero credit” atmosphere – their ratings would be about on average 10pts lower than they were. By the time Bush’s ratings dropped to the 40′s his performance was in the toilet, the entire world hated America, and the economy was in free fall and we knew that the Iraq war was a farce. If that were true today, PBO’s rating would be in the teens and 20′s.
agree completely. i couldn’t believe how fast the media took away any positive effect president obama had from getting bin laden, or any of the other massive accomplishments he’s had for that matter. amazing really.
Last year…..VP Biden was polling at 39% while the POTUS was at 49% or 50%.
And Now, Time/TeaNN has the POTUS at 55% and VPOTUS at 59%?
Hmmmm?
But it really doesn’t matter. What counts is what We The People do to help them get Gun Regulations through, Immigration Reforms done, Climate Change addressed, Voter Suppression stopped, etc.
Good Morning TOD Family, Good Morning Miss Chips, Thank you for this great round-up of important information.
Happy Birthday First Lady, Mrs. Michelle Obama. May God continue to bestow His Richest Blessings upon you, today and always.
Adding more to Chips super-duper goodness post! Thank you Chips! Washingtonian Magazine has a special Inauguration issue & an Awwww! front cover picture of POTUS/FLOTUS:
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http://www.washingtonian.com/articles/cover-archive/january-2013-contents-inauguration-special-obama-20/index.php
MSM must be having a sadz! 2013 Inaugural Balls Are Announced. Here’s a list of the first 35, with more to come.
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http://www.washingtonian.com/blogs/capitalcomment/inauguration/the-2013-inaugural-balls-have-been-announced.php
That’s interesting – I thought the MSM had said that there would only be two inaugural balls this year…
Hi HF! I believe there are 2 “Official” Balls that POTUS/FLOTUS will attend. Both are at the Convention Center — different floors. There are tons of other Balls, party-on-till-whenever, etc. going on. Each state seems to be holding it’s own Ball somewhere in the City as well! Hah! Lotta buzz around town!
Ah, I see. Makes sense now! Thanks xtine.
[Article on Bo, w/ Bo slideshow. Awwww!]:
Bo: A Dog’s Life in the Obama White House:
Bo is one lucky pooch—he has the run of the White House, has vacationed on Martha’s Vineyard, and has Michelle wrapped around his little paw. But he earns his keep, too, and helped his owner win a second term.
Living in the White House has downsides for nearly every member of the First Family. The President’s daughters are entering adolescence with the added pressure of being in the public eye. For the First Lady, a trip to Target is a national-security concern. And of course, President Obama has the most stressful job in the world.
But for Bo, the Obamas’ Portuguese water dog, life in the executive mansion has been just about perfect. He spent his first term playing with visitors and staff, meeting foreign dignitaries, and looking adorable for White House photographer Pete Souza.
It seems Bo was destined for 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. He was born in Texas on October 9, 2008, during the final weeks of Obama’s bid for the presidency. Bo’s breeders, Art and Martha Stern—ardent Obama supporters—gave the litter names inspired by the newly elected President. They called the puppy that would become Bo “New Hope.” [.....]
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http://www.washingtonian.com/articles/people/bo-a-dogs-life-in-the-obama-white-house/
Some pics of Bo in article’s slideshow I hadn’t seen before!
I am honored to share a birthday with Bo Obama.
thanks! A great break from work. He’s so adorable.
I have contacted both my odious republican rep (erik paulsen, blech) and my sen. al franken, as requested above. I have urged both of them to fully support the presidents recommendations as the bare minimum we should be looking to do to help stem the insanity that is our current state of gun violence. I’ve been battling on facebook with idiots who must be hunting T-Rex since they feel they need access to armor piercing ammo and ak-47s.
keep the faith, PBO will deliver the goods as he always does since he has kept whats best for america in his heart. instead of what is best for his donors… or what would line his pockets the fastest…
I’m keeping the faith, but also calling and writing. My representative, David Price, is on board. But as we know, the gun nuts are coming out in force for what they see as the fight of their pathetic lives and we have to be a force as well. Thanks to this site, I can keep up the good work of President Obama and feel the support.
Thank you Kyle & CindyH!
Good morning Chips and everyone. First Lady launches offical White House twitter account @FLOTUS
HuffPost PoliticsVerified@HuffPostPol
Michelle Obama launches official White House Twitter account: @FLOTUS
Called the Whitehouse to say a big thank you to PBO and VPB.
Next, called congress-critters. Rep. is a dyed in the wool (R) and has proven totally useless through all my fights with him, starting with
Health Care. Luckily my 2 Senators are (D) from New Jersey and they support the Prez. on the Gun-control issue.
Let’s keep calling to keep the pressure on these people in congress. That’s what our President ordered, so just following orders.
Love the Mt Rushmore ‘toon. He belongs there. Or, maybe by the time he is finished his 2nd term ,PBO will need a mountain all to himself.
I tried calling WH yesterday, but kept getting busy signal. Did call Senators and my rep. Positive responses. I asked what the percentage of calls was like and overwhelming in favor of POTUS/VPOTUS’ positions.
PHOENIX (AP) — An immigration activist who’s one of the leaders of the Dream Act movement is joining the staff of U.S. Rep. Kyrsten Sinema as a district outreach director.
Erika Andiola is a founder of the Arizona Dream Act Coalition, a group of young immigrants who advocate giving legal status to people who were brought to the U.S. illegally as children. Sinema’s office announced Andiola’s hiring Wednesday.
Andiola entered the U.S. illegally from Mexico but has work authorization for two years by way of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, the deportation-relief offered by President Barack Obama to immigrants eligible for the Dream Act. [.....]
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http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/U/US_ACTIVIST_SINEMA_STAFF?SITE=COBOU&SECTION=HOME&TEMPLATE=DEFAULT
I have contacted R. Sen. Mark Kirk—-and my horrific R. Rep. Randy Hultgren, some new rt. wing nutcase who is trying to fill Joe Walsh’s empty shoes with much of the same political mindset. I am on record, at least, and will keep pushing.
Super great!
New post!
http://theobamadiary.com/2013/01/17/happy-birthday-first-lady-you-are-loved/
Back in a while
Happy Birthday to our wonderful First Lady Michelle Obama!! We love you!!
Thanks, Mistress Chips, for such an uplifting round-up of positive news. America is not hopeless and I believe we will rise to the hour eventually. We must.
My favorite characteristic of President Obama is his perseverance — his unwavering stand for what is right. I am so thankful that he is the President at this moment in time. I am also grateful for Vice President Biden and his passionate work against violence in all forms.
I am also thankful for our splendid First Lady who has been a model of courage, strength, beauty and femininity. She is truly my friend in my head. May she have a delicious birthday filled with love and all good things!
Wonderfully said.
Thank you Nancie.
I went through today’s TOD posts backwards, so I’m just now Rising and Shining. What a feast What a magnificent complex amalgamation of the funny, the deep, the moving, the powerful, the food for thought. Good thing I waited — I would have missed my 11:30 am appt. by a mile. Thanks.