MFerbet's Blog

I decided that to respond to JohnKJR, I should copy the bulk of his post, and respond to each point.  He writes well, and isn't too far off, except for the obviously biased opinion he has against anyone who can think for themselves.

Liberal also means Progressive.  There are those that take that way too far of course, but I'll get to that shortly.  Progressive's believe that in order for a People to prosper, for a Nation to Prosper, we need to continue to move the Nation forward with new ideas, and remove what doesn't work...

Conservatives tend to believe in the opposite.  New is bad, Change is bad.  If it works, why fix it?  Again, that is an over simplification of what either side is... but that is what JohnKJR believes.  Let's take a moment to poke some holes in his comments.

From here forward, my comments will be in a Red Font.

From John's Blog:

Bonus) Conservatives believe that judges should act like umpires instead of legislating from the bench. That means that judges should determine whether laws are permissible under the Constitution and settle debates about the meaning of laws, not impose their will based on their ideological leanings. Liberals view judges as a backdoor method of getting unpopular left-leaning legislation passed. They don't want umpires, they want political partisans in black robes who will side with them first and then come up with a rationale to explain it.  Reality:   This maybe partially true.  However there are activists on the bench that represent both sides of the issues.   If the Supreme Court rules against Conservatives, or a Conservative Judge rules in favor of a more liberal or moderate issue, then Conservatives scream that they are legislating from the bench.  Judges must interpret the constitution.  Each Judge will look at it in a different way, and the interpretations will differ.  Some of this is due to time, sometimes it's just the nature of the "issue" or law at hand.  Civil Rights are a prime example.  Our rights are protected by the Constitution.  But when they were written... "ALL MEN" meant exactly that.  Yet, because of changes in this country over time, it now means... "ALL PEOPLE", unless you are Homosexual. 

10) Conservatives believe that individual Americans have a right to defend themselves and their families with guns and that right cannot be taken away by any method short of a Constitutional Amendment, which conservatives would oppose. Liberals believe by taking arms away from law abiding citizens, they can prevent criminals, who aren't going to abide by gun control laws, from using guns in the commission of crimes.  Only a few of the Far Left believe that there should be no gun ownership.  Most people, including most liberals believe in the constitution the way it was written.  Which is to say..." A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed."  a well regulated militia, does not mean that each individual has the right to own assualt rifles, machine guns, or any thing that shoots.  The interpretation of this Amendment is at issue.  And a true conservative would have to take this to mean exactly what it says.. which wouldn't allow for the ownership of military type weapons in the home.  Yes, you can own guns, but regulation of certain types of weapons, and who can own them is the real issue here.

9) Conservatives believe that we should live in a color blind society where every individual is judged on the content of his character and the merits of his actions. On the other hand, liberals believe that it's ok to discriminate based on race as long as it primarily benefits minority groups.  BS!!!  Many Conservatives believe that anyone other than a white male should have less rights.  And Conservatives tend to believe in Class distinctions... the Wealthy vs. the Poor.  White Conservatives in the South still promote their ideals... such as the recent "Puff the Magic Negro" bit.  Both sides are guilty of discrimination.  Both sides are guilty of Racism... This issue isn't black or white... It's definately something that falls into a grey area. 

8) Conservatives are capitalists and believe that entrepreneurs who amass great wealth through their own efforts are good for the country and shouldn't be punished for being successful. Liberals are socialists who view successful business owners as people who cheated the system somehow or got lucky. That's why they don't respect high achievers and see them as little more than piggy banks for their programs.  Again,  John is a bit off here.. Yes, conservatives believe in capitalism.  It's almost a religion for them.  There are Christian Sects that have formed based on the idea of Prosperity Gospel.  But Liberals are not Socialists... that is over simplifying the issue.  I don't doubt there are socialists in the Liberal Left... but too suggest that Liberals want complete socialism to rule, is BS.   I would gather that most people want something in the middle... Socialism has good things to offer... Good Christians are Socialists.  We care for those in need... and help lift them up.  True Capistalists only care about one thing... and that is wealth... and many of them will destroy others to gain it.  That is not responsible.

7) Conservatives believe that abortion ends the life of an innocent child and since we believe that infanticide is wrong, we oppose abortion. Most liberals, despite what they'll tell you, believe that abortion ends the life of an innocent child, but they prefer killing the baby to inconveniencing the mother.   Boy, I love his wording here... Abortion is a medical procedure that should be used rarely, and only in the situation where the mother's life is in danger.  I would also agree with abortion with regards to the victims of rape or incest.  To use it otherwise is immoral.  Most Pro Choice Liberals would agree with that statement.  Conservatives can't see past their own Moral Values, and care little for the women involved.  This issue should be put to rest... both sides need to come together to pass reasonable laws that protect the rights of the women, and the Doctors who may have to make that decision.  We can go on and on about whether life starts at conception, or by tradition, at Birth... but that is pointless...  

6) Conservatives believe in confronting and defeating enemies of the United States before they can harm American citizens. Liberals believe in using law enforcement measures to deal with terrorism, which means that they feel we should allow terrorists to train, plan, and actually attempt to kill Americans before we try to arrest them -- as if you can just send the police around to pick up a terrorist mastermind hiding in Iran or the wilds of Pakistan.  Liberals don't believe any differently that conservatives.  They just believe in obeying the constitution and the laws of the land.  Most Liberals prefer that we don't interfere in other Nations Governments, while Conservatives like to interfere in other Nations Governments.  Iraq is a prime example.  Conservatives still say we were protecting the United States, when in truth, we attacked a sovereign nation that was NOT harboring our enemy Al-Qaida, nor did they have any WMD's.  Regardless of the outcome of this continuing conflict, John's statements are too vague...

5) Conservatives, but not necessarily Republicans (which is unfortunate), believe it's vitally important to the future of the country to reduce the size of government, keep taxes low, balance the budget, and get this country out of debt. Liberals, and Democrats for that matter, believe in big government, high taxes, and they have never met a new spending program they didn't like, whether we will have to go into debt to pay for it or not.  I don't disagree with John regarding all of this.  Conservatives promote small government, low taxes, a balanced budget, and staying out of debt... however.... Conservatives will do anything to destroy a functioning government.  Using Capitalism to promote outsourcing of Federal Jobs, so that Government workers become lower paid, and obsolete...   Liberals like new programs... but they also want a working functional government, and the real battle in Washington over the past 60 plus years has been in maintaining a functioning government that is not run by private contractors.  

Republicans and Democrats have much to say on the matter of debt... but in recent History, the roles have been reversed.  The Republicans have spent, spent, and spent... with little regard for going into debt... and they have wasted tax dollars for 14 years.  Democrats, however, have fought them on many issues, and the last time a balanced budget was in force, was during Clinton's administration. 

4) Conservatives believe that government, by its very nature, tends to be inefficient, incompetent, wasteful, and power hungry. That's why we believe that the government that governs least, governs best. Liberals think that the solution to every problem is another government program. Even when those new programs create new problems, often worse than the ones that were being fixed in the first place, the solution is always....you guessed it, another government program.  Again, my point about Conservatives destroying government.  They will do anything to make it inefficient, and incapable of functioning properly.  Government Programs aren't the issue, it's the destruction of the foundations of Government and the how the government is run by Conservatives.    Liberals believe in a functioning government that works for the people, run by the people.  A Government that governs least, is a government that isn't paying attention to what's going on... the past 8 years are a prime example of that.

3) Conservatives are patriotic, believe that America is a great nation, and are primarily interested in looking out for the good of the country. That's why we believe in "American exceptionalism" and "America first." Liberals are internationalists who are more concerned about what Europeans think of us and staying in the good graces of the corrupt bureaucrats who control the UN than looking out for the best interests of this nation.  This is also only partially true.  Liberals are Patriotic.  They believe in a FREE Nation where we have FREEDOM of speech.  We have the freedoms to say what we believe.  Liberals may look to European countries for ideas, but most of those countries are older, and sometimes wiser.   Liberals do believe that we need to work with the international community.  Capitalism requires that we have friends in the global market, and if we want to prosper, we need to at least marginally get along with other Nations.  The Conservative idea of bullying other nations has not been an effective way of dealing with World issues.

2) Conservatives, most of them anyway, believe in God and think that the Constitution has been twisted by liberal judges to illegitimately try to purge Christianity from the public square. We also believe, most of us anyway, that this country has been successful in large part because it is a good, Christian nation and if our country ever turns away from the Lord, it will cease to prosper. Liberals, most of them anyway, are hostile to Christianity. That's why, whether you're talking about a school play at Christmas time, a judge putting the Ten Commandments on the wall of his court, or a store employee saying "Merry Christmas" instead of "Happy Holidays," liberals are dedicated to driving reminders of Christianity from polite society.    Most Liberals are actually better educated than those christian conservatives.  Truth.  Liberals are idealists... Conservatives are not.  Many Christian Liberals have a greater understanding of what and how this country was founded, while Christian Conservatives try to rewrite history to suit their own beliefs.  Whether your Christian or not... this country was founded as a Democratic Republic that very clearly states there is a separation of church and state.  This idea was put into our laws, so that those of other beliefs could worship as they please.  NO Government sanctioned religion... Plus, we did not want to be ruled by England's Church or the Vatican.  Idealists from both sides have been having this battle at the local level for years... primarily in school districts.  But we must remember one simple thing... we are a Nation of multiple peoples.  Race, Religion and Creed differ, and we are that magnificent Melting Pot.  Christian Principles are good guidelines, but they are not the only guideline.   Remember, many of our founding fathers were not Christian.  That again... is a fact.

1) Conservatives believe in pursuing policies because they're pragmatic and because they work. Liberals believe in pursuing policies because they're "nice" and make them feel good. Whether the policies they're advocating actually work or not is of secondary importance to them.  Conservatives believe in pursuing policies that benefit capitalism, and not the human condition.  They care little for those in need.  Liberals want to level the playing field for all people in this country.  They want the same opportunities to go to those that are brought up poor, as those that are brought up with wealth.

If you follow the news, then you know that Roland Burris presented his creditials to the Secretary of the Senate, and his creditials were rejected. 

The media is having an orgasm over this, apparently the war in GAZA isn't enough news.  And Obama didn't recently pass wind... so... they must be bored.   Here's the reality of the situation. 

Gov. Rod Blagojevich appointed Burris to the Senate seat that was vacated by Barack Obama.  Gov. Blagojevich is under investigation for attempting to sell Obama's Seat.  He declares he is innocent, and is business as usual.  He does his job by appointing Burris to the seat, and his office fills out all the wonderful paperwork that goes along with such an appointment.  Those "creditials" are given to Roland Burris to present to the Secretary of the Senate. 

Now... yesterday, the media reported that his creditials would be rejected because they were incomplete.  Burris and his attorneys new damn well, when they went to D.C. that his paperwork was not in order.  However, Burris continues to speak to the media, claiming he is the junior senator from Illinois.  The problem is... he isn't.    YET.

I quote from CNN:

"Nancy Erickson, the secretary of the Senate, rejected Burris' appointment on Monday because Burris' certificate of appointment was missing the signature of Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White, an aide to the secretary said.

Rule 2 of the Standing Rules of the Senate states that the secretary of state must sign the certificate of election along with the governor. "

Next of course is a statement from his attorney.  Also from CNN.

Timothy W. Wright III, an attorney for Burris, said the rejection of Burris' credentials was unlawful.

"Our credentials were rejected by the secretary of the Senate. We were not allowed to be placed in the record books. We were not allowed to proceed to the floor for purposes of taking oath, all of which we think was improperly done and it is against the law of this land," Wright said.

Burris' response to the lack of signature is as follows.  Yes, I am quoting CNN:

In an interview Monday with Wolf Blitzer for CNN's "The Situation Room," Burris downplayed the issue of a missing signature on the certificate of appointment.

"We know that under Illinois law and constitutional law that the secretary of state can in no way veto legal action of the governor," Burris said. "So that signature is only perfunctory and ceremonial to put the seal on it for, you know, recording and filing purposes."

Never mind that the fact that Senate Rules have nothing to do with Illinois state law.  See quote regarding Rule 2 .

THE real issue is that the state of Illinois has it's own legal issues.  The Democratic Secretary of State White, has declined to sign the certificate, because Democrats do not want anyone appointed by Blago to take the seat... for obvious reasons.

The pathetic part of all of this is that Burris is absolutely right... it's political theater.  BUT... Burris is contributing to it... he wants this job so bad, that he is making a fool out of himself, and the state of Illinois.  Something he shouldn't be doing.  My opinion of course....

I think he needs a better attorney, because the rules are pretty clear, and unless they can convince, or legally convince the Sec. of State White to sign the appointment... Burris will continue to be denied access to the senate floor. 

From CNN. 

"Senate leaders questioning the appointment cite Article 1, Section 5 of the U.S. Constitution, which states, "Each house shall be the judge of the elections, returns and qualifications of its own members."

This basically states that the Senate has the right to reject Burris with or without the approval of the State of Illinois.

What it comes down to is that the BS in Illinois is now in D.C.  Democrats don't want this guy seated for obvious reasons.  They don't want anyone tainted by Gov. Blago... to be in the running for this seat in 2010. 

It will be interesting to see how this theater plays out....

NOTE:  All CNN quotes are in Bold Itallics.

I find it interesting that the media is going nuts about how Obama's Administration is begninning to look like Clinton's.  This is partially true, however, many of those key people are qualified for the jobs he's wanting to place them in.

I have been watching this closely, and they bloggers, media, etc... are just jumping on every little thing that is leaked, or spoken about, without facts or thought.  I find this both amusing and a bit scary.

The reality is simple.  Clinton is the only Democratic Administration since Carter.  And many of Carter's people are too old or dead.  So, yes, Obama will be looking at the smartest and brightest people in Washington, as well as across the country to take those key jobs within his administration.  Some will have been Clinton Staffers... some just campaign folks... Yes, some maybe former Lobbyists, or tied to Lobbying...

But keep this in mind... he has to build a strong, smart Administration to deal with the many issues and problems he will have been left with when he swears his oath of office.

Now, I am waiting to hear which Republicans will have jobs in his Administration... and who will be offered and reject them based purely on politics.  There is a lot that needs to happen over the next month and a half... plus we have the holidays...

How do you feel about possibly having GATES stay on.  How about the Governor from Arizona?  Daschel?  Hillary?  What about Richardson, let's not forget Chuck Hagel.  There are alot of names floating around out there, but the fact is... we just won't know Who is doing what, until it's all done...

I think the media must be going through withdraw from the election... LOL....

My first question to this is Why should we save GM, Ford and the privately bank held Chrysler?

I am like a lot of Americans.  I wasn't sure about the Financial "Bailout" for banks... and I am not sure how I feel about bailing the Auto Industry out of their own financial failures.  On one hand, if GM and Ford fail, that is another massive loss of jobs.... they are still losing jobs monthly, and factories are closing.  Both white collar and blue collar jobs are being lost due to the massive drop in sales.

If the Government jumps in, with an inflex of cash to help these ailing companies, what will happen?  Will factories be re-opened?  Will the employees get their jobs back?  These companies have not been fiscally responsible in how they run their companies for years now... The price of gas started increasing quite a bit in 2003, they have known for five years that fuel was climbing, yet, due to "DEMAND" for SUV's they continued to promote and build these vehicles by the millions, and now they are stuck.  They aren't selling.  They are losing money. 

GM and Ford are guilty of having multiple vehicles that are identical, but listed and sold under different brands.  This has always been an issue.  Why build three cars that are the same thing?  Why not find original vehicles for each branding.  Example:  Buick, Saturn and GMC all have a  new Crossover.  Same vehicle.  Probably same factory.  Ford does the same thing... Taurus/Sable, Fusion/Milan/MKZ, and the Escape/Mariner/Mazda Tribute.

Why continue to market the same vehicle this way, when they could have streamlined their operations years ago.... DEMAND. 

I am a supporter of Unions... however, the Unions need to move into the 21st century.  In many ways they are just as responsible for the financial failures of the Big Three... which, is really the Big two, as Chrysler is not really, technically, and American owned automaker anymore.. being owned by a foreign bank.   Unions continue to support their workers right out of jobs.  They demand more and more, when the companies can't pay... causing the price of production to escalate, and the price of the product to escalate and no longer be competitive... then they sell the vehicles to dealers, who have to chop prices to move the vehicles, which means they make less money, and it becomes this downward spiral.

So, why should American Taxes be dumped into a failed industry?  Why didn't they model themselves after the companies that are continuing to do well world wide?  Toyota, Nissan, Honda and Suburu all build many of their cars here.  They have their own Unions, and the workers all seem to be fairly happy.  Mazda doesn't really count because they are owned by Ford.  The non traditional American companies, or Japanese companies have good buisness models.  They have a great sales strategy, and they, even now, continue to sell.  Not as much... but they continue to move product.  They have made some cuts, and changed out factories to make adjustments, building more fuel efficient cars (hybrids) at their truck plants, but they are keeping most of their workers employeed.

So, my point is... as with the airline industry... why should we let the goverment bail out the auto industry?  I can see both sides... but I think this makes for an interesting conversation from our Conservative and Liberal bloggers out there....

The non believers, the people that swore up and down that there was no way that Barack Obama would win this election... must now sit back and figure out what they did wrong.  The truth?  They picked the wrong guy... but I doubt that would have mattered much.

President Bush and the Republican Party failed the American People.  It is that simple.  The economic mess, foreign policy mess, etc... can be laid directly on the feet of the Republican President, and the ruling party for six of the past eight years.  It can also be laid on the feet of the Republicans that took Congress in 1994 on the same message of change... the message they forgot, within one year.

McCain was right about one thing... Washington changes people.  And this campaign changed him.  His speech tonight was the most genuine thing he has said in the past year... and it was the most sincere statement he has spoken.  McCain had little chance to win tonight.   But he was gracious in defeat.

The Obama campaign was about bringing change to Washington.  About bringing back the power of the people and the people spoke.  In the end, it essentially was a landslide victory for Barack Obama. 

But what happens next.  Those that are worried about Pelosi and Reid need to realize that they will probably be on a pretty short leash with the new leader of their party.  And Obama is intelligent enough that he understands the need to rule from the center, and bring both parties together to accomplish his many goals.  He understands, by his very own words the huge problems he will face as President.

That is why he was elected President of the United States today.  The next four years will judge him.  He has the potential to be a great president. 

But do we, the people have the potential to rise to the challenge of Change?  It will take everyone to work towards bettering this country and ourselves.  Will bitterness rule the Conservatives, or will they sit down and begin to compromise?

He has reached out to conservatives, liberals, Republicans, Independents and Democrats... and they heard the message.  Obama has won counties that have been Red for decades, he has won states that have been red for decades.  He may have more "political capital" than any President in recent History.

I look forward to seeing Obama take office in January. 

So, today was the big day.  Someone asked me this morning why I voted for Barack Obama, and how could I vote for someone who doesn't have the morals and values that Christians do. 

I was going to answer with the many reasons I had selected Obama... but I have tried to keep my religious views out of the conversation. 

I believe that Obama represents Change in this country.  I believe that he is more than capable of leading this country in a way that no President has since FDR.  I believe that he understands the common people in this country better than those that challenged him in this race.  I believe he understands the roots of what makes this country great, and why.  I think he has the even temperment and education it will take to find and make the hard decisions that lay in our future.  I believe he knows how to get things done.

However, when asked about morals and values... I had to stop and think.  Yes.  He is a family man.  A good man, a man with strong religious beliefs, and morals and values.  However, you can't just say that to those that believe he is Muslim and that his being the son of a Muslim is akin to being born the anti-christ. 

So, as I thought about this... this is why I voted Democratic in this election.

Jesus Christ came to this earth, born of a virgin, to later die on a cross for the sins of humanity.  He died so that we may live.  He died so that all peoples, of all religions, had a chance of salvation in the eyes of God.  His teachings were not only to the well to do, but to the sinner, and the poor.  He accepted and loved, and forgave prostitutes and tax collectors, murderers and heathens... he believe that we need to help others.

The Democratic Party represents this more so than the Republican Party. 

Republicans talk a good talk when they speak about Morals and Values... of the American People... of the Christian Conservative.  Yet, their actions speak so much louder than words.  They Cut Medicare and other benefits.  They vote against our Veterans and spending on proper medical and mental health care for our veterans.  They vote in favor of big business and the wealthy... yet they vote against breaks for the middle class and lower and working classes.  They vote against medical care for children that have no control over what their parents do...

The Republican Party supports WAR, and is against protecting our Earth, our environment, and all the creatures that live upon it's face....   They vote in favor of discrimination and hate... they support policies that diminish this country instead of strengthing this country.

For me... it was a simple choice... one that was at a subconscious level.  One I knew, yet hadn't truly explored.  I voted for a Democrat this year because he represents the Party that care for ALL THE PEOPLE Of this Nation.  He believes in a United States, not a Divided States of America. 

You will all choose your own way, you will choose who to vote for based on your political and Moral compass.... I just ask this... What would Christ have done?  Why did Christ die for us? 

If you know the answer... then there is only one true way to vote....

I wanted to write a simple thank you to the volunteers at Grain Valley Middle School this morning, who handled the large numbers of voters so well.  They had sample ballots on hand, and also showed those that didn't know how to use the voting machines how to do so.

The lines were long, it took me an hour and fourty five minutes to vote this morning.  But we had 4 Precincts at one location.  The Volunteers did a great job, and I felt I should let people know.

So, those in 40D, 40E, 86 and 87 if you read this, feel free to weigh in.

Only suggestion I had to make things run smoother is that traffic control would have helped in the parking lot.  It was a bit of a mess out there. 

McCain came out swinging... but due to his anger and his inability to articulate anything... he sort of fizzled out in the middle... and kind of died at the end.

However, this debate was probably the best one out of the three.  There was a bit of dialogue between the candidates, and I found I learned a few new things about each of them. 

I watched the debate on CNN.  They would split screen it, so you could see the reaction of the candidates as the other spoke.  It was a great way of reading each man during the debate.

Obama... Cool, collected, intelligent, and well spoken.   He was weaker in the beginning, but once he found his stride, he was sharp and focused.  He, not once, lost his cool.  Even when McCain was essentially calling him a liar about Ayers. 

HOWEVER,

McCain...  On point at the beginning, the old McCain of 2000... Well spoken, and articulating what he wanted to say... however, somewhere around the 45 minute mark... that fizzled.  He began to get angry, indignent, and irritated.  He didn't keep his cool, and barely kept his temper in check.  He was not nearly as articulate or convincing... he was beating a dead horse. 

Both Candidates will do their best to win the White House come November 4th.  Both Candidates are good, decent men, who want what is best for this country.  They don't agree on the direction the country needs to go, and WE the people will decide.

I am biased... however, as a former supporter of McCain I was rooting for him to be more affective in his arguments.  I think he failed there.  ONE thing the media is correct about..... this election will not be decided by the Democratic Base or the Republican Base... it will be deciced by the Independents.  So, Left Wing Nut Jobs and Right Wing Radicals will not be the deciding vote.  It will probably be the modestly moderate folks who pick the winner this year.

I called a number of Independent friends... to get their reaction... I spoke with 5 people.  None of which had decided prior to last night who they are voting for.  Three of them will vote for Obama.  Based on last nights debate.  One will vote for McCain..... based on last night's debate... and the last has decided to vote for a third party... he says he's flipping a coin.

I just found that interesting.

So, while reading, and watching the news over the past few days, I became aware that there are some really unhappy folks on the Republican side this year.  They are unhappy with their candidate, they are unhappy with the direction the election is going and they are just unhappy in general.

When people scream about civil rights... it's a bunch of Angry Radical Liberals.  But I heard that people are actually yelling, "KILL OBAMA" at Palin campaign stops.   And reading the news on the web, the conservative's talking heads are getting angry and "yelling" at McCain's campaign to attack Obama on the personal stuff.

What I find really interesting is the number of people that are just plain mad as hell.  What can we say to that?  The Republican Party is not the party of change.  It's not the party that puts "Country First".  It's never been that party.  The Republican Party puts a Free Market first, Corporations first... never the people.  At least that is how many people see it... and the past 8 years have been a prime example.

I won't argue that there are many conservatives that want what they feel is right for this country, and they want things to be the way they were when this great nation was founded... but the reality is... things change... and continue to change... and you can't "FIX" these kind of changes quickly.  Has this country changed?  Yes... but if we were to make everyone happy, we'd have to split this country in half... and then where would we be?

Bush came into office with the hopes and dreams of the Conservative Movement in 2000.  He didn't even technically win the election, but the Supreme Court ruled in his favor... so there he is... He was to be the new Leader of the Conservative movement in Washington D.C.  He was going to bring Conservative Ideals to the Presidency.. He was a President with a Republican led Congress that could do anything he wanted......

But that didn't happen.  We had various National Disasters occur, 9/11 being the most prominent.  And Bush's Conservative agenda was put on hold.  BUT, while in office, the Republicans continued down the path of Fiscal Irresponsiblity, and Bush and Congress walked in lockstep for 6 years.  Where does that lead us now?  Conservatives blame the economic mess on Democrats... yet, they have only been in power for two years... this mess started during the past ten years or so... which, I might add, was ruled by a Republican led Congress. 

The Bush Administration will be blamed for failed Foriegn Policy, Failed Domestic Policy, and any and all hardships Americans are feeling right now, and in the near future....

Is he truly to blame?  Not for everything... we give him entirely too much credit for things he has little or no control over.  HOWEVER... the angry Republicans, Conservatives that are screaming out now... should have been screaming out in 2004 when they re-elected him. 

In any election in this country a true Conservative will never win.  That is why McCain is the Republican Nominee... because Conservatives are labeled by a majority of this country as Right Wing Radicals... Fundamentalist Christians that are trying to take over Government.  Just like every Liberal is labled as a nut job... and all democrats are considered liberals....

WC believes I don't know the difference, but when the Republican Party Platform is layed out by this group of people, in all essence, it becomes the Right Wing Party. 

I understand the difference... however, Republicans apparently don't.  The Angry Republicans and Conservatives that are so frustrated right now, so angry and bitter, made a very drastic error during the Primary Season.  They picked McCain... instead of a Conservative.  They picked a 72 year old man, with skeletons, and a history of losing his cool.  They picked a man that is despised by many in his own party, as well as many outside his party... they picked John McCain. 

Conservatives want him to up the personal attacks on Obama... however if he does this, then he opens himself up to more scrutiny about his own past... something that he doesn't want...   Conservatives or Republicans are so Angry they are chanting KILL Obama at campaign events... and people seem to think this is ok.

OUR country is in a crisis... not just an economic crisis... but a crisis of faith.... in our Government... People from both sides are angry... Liberals are angry with Conservatives... Conservatives are angry with Liberals.. and the country sits split right down the middle.

Is there a perfect candidate for all out there?  No... is John McCain the man that will lead us to salvation?  NO.  Not as President, possibly in the Senate. 

Republicans are mad because their Party failed them.  Because they picked the wrong guy to run against Obama... and that the Nation is swinging left again.  Conservatives are angry because they don't have a candidate to support... and they don't know what to do come November.

The reality of this situation is that this country is ANGRY at Government.  Liberals and Conservatives alike...

"Obama scares the Hell out of me" says one conservative.... "Palin scares the hell out of me" says a liberal.  People are passionate about this... I know I am.

I always believe the best path is the path of compromise.  There is no compromise during an election year... you get to basically flip a coin... you pick the candidate that falls closer in line with your beliefs... Many just pick a candidate to punish those that failed.

But in the end, in November... when all the dust settles.... there will be a New President... and we as a Nation need to come together to support that president, and make sure our Congressional Leaders understand what there jobs really are... and work towards a middle ground to accomplish something. 

I picked the person I feel will make the best leader.  It took me months and a lot of research.  I didn't pick him lightly... or on a whim... however, I get attacked here, and in every day life because of my choice... but it seems that there are many more people just like me, making the same choice...

Every single person that reads this blog has a job to do come November... and that is to get out and vote.  Read up on the facts... GET THE FACTS... and then go vote.

God Bless America....

This is my second blog I am doing regarding my choice of Barack Obama as President.  My purpose here is to give my personal reason regarding this topic, as to why I think Obama will make the better leader with regards to how Iraq is handled, and what can be done to effectively wrap up our Troop Commitment in Iraq, and redeploy our troops where they are really needed which is in Afghanistan at this point.

There are fundamental differences in Ideology with regards to Iraq.  I think most folks will agree that there were major blunders and failures on the part of the Bush Administration when planning this war, and the reasons for invading Iraq in the first place.  Well, the FACT is we are there... and we need to get our troops out, and we need to change course in Iraq... and we must be Responible when we do it.

I don't agree with McCain because he pulls the ole Victory in Iraq cr&%... and this is not a traditional war... we are not fighting a single enemy... and the only way "Victory" could occur in Iraq is if we destroy any possibility of insurgent and terrorist activity in Iraq.  And the reality is... it won't happen.  The people in Iraq don't know whether they love us or hate us...  WE must be responsible, because we basically destroyed their country, their infrastructure, their way of life.... by destroying the government we created the vacuum that led to the entrance of Al-Qaida into Iraq.  This encouraged insurgents to take up arms against us, and has led to the catastrophic blunder that is Bush's Policy in Iraq.

How do we responsibly get out?  What does Iraq need to do?  What does the Government need to do?  WE need to get tough on the government... and basically tell them to get their act together. 

OUR troops have worked very hard over there... and YES... the current "surge" has helped.  Does anyone remember how many "surges" there were before this one? 

I think that Obama is right on Iraq.  We need to get our troops out... here's a bit from his website.

Inadequate Security and Political Progress in Iraq: Since the surge began, more than 1,000 American troops have died, and despite the improved security situation, the Iraqi government has not stepped forward to lead the Iraqi people and to reach the genuine political accommodation that was the stated purpose of the surge. Our troops have heroically helped reduce civilian casualties in Iraq to early 2006 levels. This is a testament to our military’s hard work, improved counterinsurgency tactics, and enormous sacrifice by our troops and military families. It is also a consequence of the decision of many Sunnis to turn against al Qaeda in Iraq, and a lull in Shia militia activity. But the absence of genuine political accommodation in Iraq is a direct result of President Bush’s failure to hold the Iraqi government accountable.

Strains on the Military: More than 1.75 million servicemen and women have served in Iraq or Afghanistan; more than 620,000 troops have completed multiple deployments. Military members have endured multiple deployments taxing both them and their families. Additionally, military equipment is wearing out at nine times the normal rate after years of constant use in Iraq’s harsh environment. As Army Chief of Staff General George Casey said in March, “Today’s Army is out of balance. The current demand for our forces in Iraq and Afghanistan exceeds the sustainable supply and limits our ability to provide ready forces for other contingencies.”

Resurgent Al Qaeda in Afghanistan: The decision to invade Iraq diverted resources from the war in Afghanistan, making it harder for us to kill or capture Osama Bin Laden and others involved in the 9/11 attacks. Nearly seven years later, the Taliban has reemerged in southern Afghanistan while Al Qaeda has used the space provided by the Iraq war to regroup, train and plan for another attack on the United States. 2007 was the most violent year in Afghanistan since the invasion in 2001. The scale of our deployments in Iraq continues to set back our ability to finish the fight in Afghanistan, producing unacceptable strategic risks.

A New Strategy Needed: The Iraq war has lasted longer than World War I, World War II, and the Civil War. More than 4,000 Americans have died. More than 60,000 have been injured and wounded. The United States may spend $2.7 trillion on this war and its aftermath, yet we are less safe around the globe and more divided at home. With determined ingenuity and at great personal cost, American troops have found the right tactics to contain the violence in Iraq, but we still have the wrong strategy to press Iraqis to take responsibility at home, and restore America’s security and standing in the world.

In 2002, as the conventional thinking in Washington lined up with President Bush for war, Obama had the judgment and courage to speak out against going to war, and to warn of “an occupation of undetermined length, with undetermined costs, and undetermined consequences.” He and Joe Biden are fully committed to ending the war in Iraq as president.

Barack Obama and Joe Biden believe we must be as careful getting out of Iraq as we were careless getting in. Immediately upon taking office, Obama will give his Secretary of Defense and military commanders a new mission in Iraq: ending the war. The removal of our troops will be responsible and phased, directed by military commanders on the ground and done in consultation with the Iraqi government. Military experts believe we can safely redeploy combat brigades from Iraq at a pace of 1 to 2 brigades a month that would remove them in 16 months. That would be the summer of 2010 – more than 7 years after the war began.

Under the Obama-Biden plan, a residual force will remain in Iraq and in the region to conduct targeted counter-terrorism missions against al Qaeda in Iraq and to protect American diplomatic and civilian personnel. They will not build permanent bases in Iraq, but will continue efforts to train and support the Iraqi security forces as long as Iraqi leaders move toward political reconciliation and away from sectarianism.

Barack Obama and Joe Biden believe that the U.S. must apply pressure on the Iraqi government to work toward real political accommodation. There is no military solution to Iraq’s political differences, but the Bush Administration’s blank check approach has failed to press Iraq’s leaders to take responsibility for their future or to substantially spend their oil revenues on their own reconstruction.

Obama and Biden's plan offers the best prospect for lasting stability in Iraq. A phased withdrawal will encourage Iraqis to take the lead in securing their own country and making political compromises, while the responsible pace of redeployment called for by the Obama-Biden plan offers more than enough time for Iraqi leaders to get their own house in order. As our forces redeploy, Obama and Biden will make sure we engage representatives from all levels of Iraqi society—in and out of government—to forge compromises on oil revenue sharing, the equitable provision of services, federalism, the status of disputed territories, new elections, aid to displaced Iraqis, and the reform of Iraqi security forces.

Barack Obama and Joe Biden will launch an aggressive diplomatic effort to reach a comprehensive compact on the stability of Iraq and the region. This effort will include all of Iraq’s neighbors—including Iran and Syria, as suggested by the bi-partisan The Iraq Study Group Report. This compact will aim to secure Iraq’s borders; keep neighboring countries from meddling inside Iraq; isolate al Qaeda; support reconciliation among Iraq’s sectarian groups; and provide financial support for Iraq’s reconstruction and development.

Barack Obama and Joe Biden believe that America has both a moral obligation and a responsibility for security that demands we confront Iraq’s humanitarian crisis—more than five million Iraqis are refugees or are displaced inside their own country. Obama and Biden will form an international working group to address this crisis. He will provide at least $2 billion to expand services to Iraqi refugees in neighboring countries, and ensure that Iraqis inside their own country can find sanctuary. Obama and Biden will also work with Iraqi authorities and the international community to hold the perpetrators of potential war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide accountable. They will reserve the right to intervene militarily, with our international partners, to suppress potential genocidal violence within Iraq.

Obama and Biden believe any Status of Forces Agreement, or any strategic framework agreement, should be negotiated in the context of a broader commitment by the U.S. to begin withdrawing its troops and forswearing permanent bases. Obama and Biden also believe that any security accord must be subject to Congressional approval. It is unacceptable that the Iraqi government will present the agreement to the Iraqi parliament for approval—yet the Bush administration will not do the same with the U.S. Congress. The Bush administration must submit the agreement to Congress or allow the next administration to negotiate an agreement that has bipartisan support here at home and makes absolutely clear that the U.S. will not maintain permanent bases in Iraq.

I know we won't all agree... I don't expect that... however, Iraq is a serious problem for this country, and we need to work harder to solve that problem.  The current Administration has not done so... and Senator McCain is on board with Bush's Current policies in Iraq...

I am fully aware that in the Past McCain questioned Bush's Policies... however, in the past four years, he has been almost in lock step with Bush on this issue... and I think it's fundamentally WRONG. 

I happen to agree with Obama on this issue 100%. 

On one of my last posts, on individual and I go back and forth on why I would vote for Obama, when I have some conservative ideals.  Why would I think that Obama, the most liberal person in the Senate, based on his votes, would be capable of reaching across the aisle.  The truth... that is the reason.

Obama's ideals, coincide with many of mine.  We don't agree on everything, and we won't.  Where McCain and I agree on less.  The things I agree with McCain on, are exactly the same things he and Obama agree on. 

During this last month before the election, the HATE ads, Swiftboating, blame ads, etc... will be in full force.  And as much as I would like my candidate NOT to run those kind of ads, the pressure is on, and his opponent is pulling out the big guns, and going after his character.  Which, it seems, is the only thing he has left to go after.

I am constantly fact checking my information.  I have made calls to the campaigns to clarify some of the ads, and I have done the research on various ads, to call into question, anything I find misleading or false.  I have also admonished my candidates campaign, when they have failed to stay on the high road.  But at this time, there isn't much we can change... the Dirty Ads will fly... it's the last month of the campaign before election time.

So, I decided I should write about the various reasons I support Obama.  And I will start with Service.   Service to this country.  This can be done in various ways... Joining the Military.  Joining the Reserves.  Going into a profession that serves the people, such as Nursing, Educators, Police, Fire, etc... or just volunteering to do community service in your town, city, or state.

Barack Obama would like to, as President, ask everyone to serve this country in some capacity.  And is willing to find new ways and expand existing ways for you to do so.  The following is an excerpt from his website.

• Expand Corporation for National and Community Service: Obama and Biden will expand AmeriCorps from 75,000 slots today to 250,000 and they will focus this expansion on addressing the great challenges facing the nation. They will establish a Classroom Corps to help teachers and students, with a priority placed on underserved schools; a Health Corps to improve public health outreach; a Clean Energy Corps to conduct weatherization and renewable energy projects; a Veterans Corps to assist veterans at hospitals, nursing homes and homeless shelters; and a Homeland Security Corps to help communities plan, prepare for and respond to emergencies.
• Engage Retiring Americans in Service on a Large Scale: Older Americans have a wide range of skills and knowledge to contribute. Obama and Biden will expand and improve programs that connect individuals over the age of 55 to quality volunteer opportunities.
• Expand the Peace Corps: Obama and Biden will double the Peace Corps to 16,000 by 2011. They will work with the leaders of other countries to build an international network of overseas volunteers so that Americans work side-by-side with volunteers from other countries.
• Show the World the Best Face of America: Obama and Biden will set up an America's Voice Initiative to send Americans who are fluent speakers of local languages to expand our public diplomacy. They also will extend opportunities for older individuals such as teachers, engineers, and doctors to serve overseas.

• Expand Service-Learning in Our Nation's Schools: Obama and Biden will set a goal that all middle and high school students do 50 hours of community service a year. They will develop national guidelines for service- learning and will give schools better tools both to develop programs and to document student experience. Green Job Corps: Obama and Biden will create an energy-focused youth jobs program to provide disadvantaged youth with service opportunities weatherizing buildings and getting practical experience in fast-growing career fields.
• Expand YouthBuild Program: Obama and Biden will expand the YouthBuild program, which gives disadvantaged young people the chance to complete their high school education, learn valuable skills and build affordable housing in their communities. They will grow the program so that 50,000 low-income young people a year a chance to learn construction job skills and complete high school.
• Require 100 Hours of Service in College: Obama and Biden will establish a new American Opportunity Tax Credit that is worth $4,000 a year in exchange for 100 hours of public service a year.
• Promote College Serve-Study: Obama and Biden will ensure that at least 25 percent of College Work-Study funds are used to support public service opportunities instead of jobs in dining halls and libraries.

• Social Investment Fund Network: Obama and Biden will create a Social Investment Fund Network to use federal seed money to leverage private sector funding to improve local innovation, test the impact of new ideas and expand successful programs to scale.
• Social Entrepreneurship Agency for Nonprofits: Barack Obama and Joe Biden will a create an agency within the Corporation for National and Community Service dedicated to building the capacity and effectiveness of the nonprofit sector.

I am a proponent of National Service.  I don't understand why Americans don't do more of this.  I know that many will join the Military, National Guard, etc... but not want to give back to their Nation in this capacity.  I think that is wrong.  I think that we, as Americans, should promote and explore new ways that our Youth can Volunteer, and/or Serve this country to earn College or Vocational Skills.  I would be willing to go one step further, and require all Students upon leaving School to serve for two years in some capacity for our Country.  This would not need to be military service.  They could volunteer in our National Parks, in Urban Neighborhoods, work with non-profits, or in hospitals.  There are numerous ideas out there to make this happen.  I would even suggest that a National Guard Service be expanded to include Border and Port Security.  And those that inlist in the Guard, as Reserves, be trained in this specific area of Service, which would help with our National Security.

I wish I would have had the opportunity to do more.  I volunteer in my church, and have been involved in different programs over the years.  I was unable to join the military because of an injury to my back when I was younger, but if I had had the opportunity, I would have done so. 

Public or National Service is one of the Ideas that I like, and one of the reasons I feel that Barack Obama will make a good President.  He understands the need for people to be more involved in our Nation. 

Patriotism is more than love of country.  It means being APART of this country.  And the opportunities are there.  Helping the sick, poor, and hungery, working with the homeless, or mentally ill.  Working with Urban teens to help them escape the violence and give them opportunities to do something that will help them get an education. 

I believe that Service to Country should be a requirement upon leaving High School, or graduating.  I think  that Serving your community or Nation is in the best interest of our country, and is the highest form of Patriotism.

Just read a great article on this.  The Healthcare plans of both candidates were brought out in the VP debate last night, and there is much debate over whose would benefit more, and cost more or less.

READ UP... do the research... check into both plans via the candidates websites.  But here is an article that breaks down some of the costs... expectations, etc...

Both plans are very similar... those that are screaming Socialism... need to shut up, pay attention, and get educated on the facts.  Those that are worried about either plan becoming completely state run... see prior sentence.

Here's the link.

http://www.marketwatch.com/news/story/emory-health-
policy-expert-weighs/story.aspx?guid=%7B89CCBA21-400A-4
B42-8DDC-CA6BF8E84FBE%7D&dist=hppr

Well, I have to say... up front... I know who I am voting for this year.  And I know that several folks on here will probably remind me of that when they comment.  But I also am capable of watching a debate, and paying attention to what is said, and fact checking it.

Both Candidates did well last night.  Overall.  There weren't any major Gaffe's, and Palin didn't come across as a complete ignorant on everything.  She showed the world she can stand toe to toe with Joe Biden, and that is an accomplishment by itself. 

In the early part of the debate, Palin clearly faltered a few times, and even said she wouldn't answer the question being asked.  She failed to answer, and anytime she didn't have a response, she would use her time to go back to energy, or something she felt she knew better.  Her ability to do this on the cuff showed she can actually think on the run, which some of us have begun to wonder about.  Her inability to answer the question, should make us all question, why?

She had a tendency to repeat herself, and she was dead wrong on a few points.

Palin mistakenly claimed that troop levels were down to pre-surge levels, this won't happen until sometime next year.. .however, they are coming down.

Palin repeated a false claim that Obama once voted to raise taxes for "families" who make $42,000 a year.  The bill in question was referring to Singles making $42,000 a year, a family of four would have to make $90,000 a year to be affected.

Palin claimed that McCain's Health Care plan would be budget neutral.  There isn't much information available on this.  But the Urban-Brookings Tax Policy Center estimates that McCain's plan, which at it's peak would cover 5 million uninsured, would increase the deficit by 1.3 Trillion over ten years.  Obama's plan, which would cover 34 Million uninsured, would raise the deficit by 1.6 Million over ten years.  So, McCain's plan would not be budget neutral.

Palin claimed that Obama would raise taxes on millions of small businesses who make over $250,000.00 a year.  This is a false statement.  "According to an analysis by the independent Urban-Brookings Tax Policy Center, several hundred thousand small business owners, at most, would have incomes high enough to be affected by the higher rates on income, capital gains and dividends that Obama proposes." - Factcheck.org

Palin was wrong on Afghanistan.  I will give you the statement by Biden and Palin. 

What McKiernan did say.

Washington Post: "The word I don't use for Afghanistan is 'surge,' " McKiernan stressed, saying that what is required is a "sustained commitment" to a counterinsurgency effort that could last many years and would ultimately require a political, not military, solution."

Am I nitpicking?  Yes.  There were plenty of flubs by Biden as well.  Biden did say that "John McCain voted exactly the same way" on two measures, that he was actually opposite of Obama on.  And Biden claimed that McCain wouldn't even sit down and talk to the Government of Spain.  Which was not entirely true...... McCain never said he would or wouldn't.

As far as Iraq goes, it's a losing situation for Palin, Iraq is not popular.  Many of the mistakes in Iraq are due to the current Administration and for the past four years, McCain Supported Bush on Iraq nearly 100%.  But the voting people of America do not support Bush or anyone else for that matter on continuing the conflict.  As soon as Palin said white flag, she hurt herself. 

The fact remains, that with regards to Iraq... unless she said she was bringing our troops home, and not spending ten billion in Iraq each month... she didn't help their cause. 

I think that when she said, "your going backwards again" referencing every time Biden compared McCain to Bush's policies, she also was trying to be positive and look forward, but when your Presidential Candidate wants to continue many of the same policies, this doesn't look good... and is the wrong way to win over independents. 

Did she reassure people... I am positive that the Republicans are very happy with her performance last night.  I am positive that Democrats were impressed she didn't completely falter.  I am also positive that it didn't change much in the grand scheme of things.

There was one other exchange that I felt was very important.  During an exchange near the end of the debate, talking about how each candidate understands what it's like, when it's tough, etc...

Sarah Palin said this, "Being a mom, one very concerned about a son in the war, about a special needs child, about kids heading off to college, how are we going to pay those tuition bills?  About times and Todd and our marriage in our past where we didn't have health insurance and we know what other Americans are going through as they sit around the kitchen table and try to figure out how are they going to pay out-of-pocket for health care?  We've been there also so that connection was important."

Joe Biden during his response said this.  "Look, I understand what it's like to be a single parent.  When my wife and daughter died, and my two sons were gravely injured, I understand what it's like as a parent to wonder what it's like if your kid's going to make it.  I understand what it's like to sit around the kitchen table with a father who says, I've got to leave, champ, because there's no jobs here.  I got to head down to Wilmington.  And when we get enough money, honey, we'll bring you down.  I understand what it's like.  I'm much better off than almost all AMericans now.  I get a good salary with the United States Senate.  I live in a beautiful house, that's my total investment that I have.  So, I - - I am much better now.  But the notion that somehow, because I'm a man, I don't know what it's like to raise two kids alone, I don't know what it's like to have a child you're sure is going to --  is going to make it-- I understand"

What I understand is that both of these people are solid Americans.  They have different experiences, and different lives.  But when it comes down to it... both of these people represent what is to be truly American.  There ideology is completely opposite.  But that is America right now.  And that is why true change is needed.  Those that believe a centrist or moderate makes a weak leader... that is wrong... a Leader who can bring both sides together... is what is needed.  I am voting for the team I think is capable of doing that.  You will vote your way... BUT the most important thing we can do as Americans in November IS VOTE!

I have been following this investigation for the past couple years, as all this broke out.  I am fully aware that some of our more "conservative" folks will say this was just a witch hunt, that the Democrats were just stirring stuff up, etc... however, it appears, based on investigations that these firings were politically motivated, something that should NOT be tolerated by anyone in the Justice Department.

The Bush Administration has been stonewalling, and pulling Executive Priviledge with regards to any inquiry into this issue.  Bush has refused to cooperate or allow people subpoenaed to testify.  Something that obviously makes them appear more guilty.

One must remember that when Congress was investigating Clinton, and all they had to go on was the Monica Lewinsky deal, that Congress pushed for impeachment.  And spent two years on a witch hunt against Clinton.  Which in the end, did not solve anything...

But that wasn't an issue in the Justice Department.  Apparently some key staff members were using political criteria in the hiring and firing of Justice Department positions.  And that key people may have broken the law.

Attorney General Mukasey originally said they would not be doing a criminal investigation, and that he felt no laws had been broken... just ethical bounderies.  The key players had all resigned.  Including Attorney General Gonzales. 

Now, this past week, Attorney General Mukasey has assigned a prosecutor to probe the Firings of US Attorneys to find out if any laws were broken.  The Justice Departments Inspector General and the Office of Professional Responsibility released a report jointly Monday morning that was said to be harsh, yet incomplete, due to the key officials from the White House and Congress refusing to cooperate. 

Please take the time to read this article from NPR.  And do your own research on the issue and respond.  You can find this article at the following link.

http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyI
d=95187253

As an American, I am always troubled when any Branch of Government exceeds it's authority.  I have been concerned with Bush's behaviour for six years now, and that of Gonzales as well.  Ethically speaking, this is a real issue.  I don't know, any more than anyone else who reads this whether or not laws were broken.  It is fairly obvious to me that the Bush Administration wanted this to just go away... and that they feared something untoward had occured, because of their lack of cooperation in any investigation into the Administration's Political action with regards to the Justice Department and other areas.

Please weigh in.

What makes us who we are... what core beliefs do you have that make you, say... Liberal, or Moderate.... or Conservative.  I have been accused by folks of being Liberal... AND Conservative, which seems to be an oxymoron, except... most of us fall into that Moderate category.

I thought I would explore that in this blog, by pointing out where I stand politically on some of the HOT topics of the year.  I would love to hear back from everyone of you folks out there that read this... I am interested in hearing your opinions... especially those that wish to make statements in other blogs, that would be more appropriate here... So, I give you this forum to air your thoughts.

Mine are as follows:

1.  Immigration.  Enforce the laws on the books.  Deport those that are here illegally, and work on comprehensive legislation that will create said guest worker program.... Fine the hell out of any businesses or corporations that hire illegals, and make sure that we have the funding to enforce the laws.

2.  Port and Border Security.  This is a National Defense topic.  If our ports and borders are not secured, then what is the point of Homeland Security?  Increase funding so we can build up our border patrol.  Use the National Guard... here in the United States to fill out the border patrol...(this has been done... it works).  AND make sure that only "allied or friendly" countries companies own our ports... or take them all back under US companies.  No country like the UAE should own or operate any port on our soil.

3.  Taxes.  We pay them.  We must pay them.  National Security, our Military, Social Security, Medicare, and yes, Welfare all depend on funding to operate.  We must continue, but the IRS needs to be completely overhauled... tax loopholes must be closed, and incentives to American Companies to take their manufacturing overseas must be stopped.  NO tax breaks for big corporations, unless they are manufacturing and selling in this country.  A comprehensive approach to restructuring all of these agencies is needed.  However, these programs can't be dropped... but they sure could be fixed.

4.  NAFTA... this needs to be redone.  I don't agree that it has helped our Nation... time to update it.

5.  Social Security... I do not agree that privatizing this is a good idea.  We need to keep Congress from stealing from it... that is the main issue.

6.  Welfare and medicare need more oversight, and modernized.

7.  Abortion.  I agree that some comprehensive new laws with regards to abortion need to be worked on.  I agree with banning late term abortion, unless the health of the mother is an issue.  I agree with making sure abortion is not used as birth control.  However, I don't believe we can take away the individual right of the Patient and the Doctor to decide what is best for the patient.  So, we can't have laws that criminlize abortion... we need to make sure the patient is protected.  I also believe that in some extreme cases such as Rape and Incest, abortion should be a medical option if decided upon immediately.

8.  Marriage.  That is not for the government to decide.  If you attend a church that says marriage is between a man and a woman.  We need to respect that.  If you attend a church that says Men can marry Men, or women can marry women, then we need to respect that.  Keep government out of Marriage.  This is a civil rights issue, or a religious issue... it's not an issue the government should be involved in.

9.  Separation of Church and State.  I take this literally.  No government should interfere in religious organizations, and religious organizations need to stay out of Government.  Public Schools are Government funded, so any teachings that are Religious by nature should not be included in Public School classrooms.

10.  I think we need to work on our Public schools in this country.  WE need to make some big changes to the way the system works.  I also think that those that wish to have their children homeschooled, or attend private schools, should get a tax credit. However, homeschools and private schools should still be required to meet State and Federal expectations when it comes to education.

11.  Economy... I believe we need more regulation... but let's not get carried away.  We need to make sure that what is happening now, doesn't happen again.  What is happening now... is because our Government failed to protect Americans from the greed that is rampant in capitalism. 

12.  No more tax breaks for Corporations that take their manufacturing overseas... no incentives at all.  Those companies that KEEP all their manufacturing in the United States should receive a tax incentive or break. 

13.  Our elected officials need to have some term limits... I think one six year term for President, three six year terms for Senator, and three, three year terms for the House... anything more than that should be illegal.  Less time campagning, and more time doing the work of the American People.  If they are not doing their jobs... time to vote them out... and get some new blood in there...

14.  Healthcare... yes, we need to work on this... Insurance companies should be required to focus on Preventative care, instead of always doing reactive care, this would save billions of dollars a year.  I think if we did this, and found a way to make insurance more affordable, the Federal Government wouldn't need to get involved.  However, if we can't do this... there are plenty of models out there that would work... we need some kind of compromise... I don't think Univeral Health Care is the key... however, it's should be the goal... everyone having healthcare they can afford... if they have a means... it should be readily available.

These are just a few of my thoughts.  I tend to be more fiscally conservative, but I am socially pretty liberal... I don't agree with either candidate 100%...

One other note... I don't believe that any "rescue" plan for Wall Street should include so much unilateral control by any UNELECTED official.  Regulation and Oversight need to be a part of any bill congress passes.  Short of that... then NO.. would be my answer to any kind of "bail out"