Definition of Opinion:  A belief or conclusion held with confidence but not substantiated by positive knowledge or proof.

Please be respectful to others with differing opinions. 

Michael Kelly

I jjust heard a member of the biden admin. a fellow named bernstein, who is the  Secretary of Commerce, do what i call a :total breakdown. He  was asked how the Government made money so that it could spend .money. He said well when we need money we make money by issuing bonds and we have always sold bonds but this leads to indebteness so we have to print more money  to have enough money to pay the interest on the money we have already made and spent, and so then we have to sell more bonds to make more money  but then he must have understodd the total absurdity of what he was saying and he rare very rare for a Democrat, admiitted that HE DID NOT KNOW HOW THE GOVERNMENT MAKES MONEY. 

THAT ANSWER  IS THAT OUR GOVERNMENT DOES'NT PRODUCE ANYTHING OF .VALUE. IT MUST RELY ON TAXES FOR MONEY.

WHY ALL THE RIGAMAROLE, WHY NOT JUST PRINT MORE MONEY.

So Katie, I have my Great Karnack Turban on and opening the envelope I pull from it the single sheet of Paper and read the Answer  KATIE IS THE ONE. What did Ed McMahon's Question Say? I think you know "Who is the most hate filled Anti-Trumper on this Message Forum?" Don't worry Katie, we all understaind and its Okay, All God's Chillin Got Dem Shoes gonna Walk Around Gonna Walk Around

Jim Coats

Thank God Joe, Kamala and KJP don't have any trouble expressing themselves!

DeWitt Bacon

Michael K., I heard the same nonsense from Bernstein. I've asked this question before: IS THERE ANYONE IN BIDEN'S CABINET WHO IS NOT EITHER A COMMUNIST OR AN ALL-OUT IDIOT?

Richard, I'm sorry, but I forgot to respond to your question about the devastating storms that hit the Midwest. Fortunately for us, the brunt of those storms was to the west of us. They went through Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Nebraska, and Iowa. We had some rain and wind but nothing damaging. Thanks for your concern,

Michael Kelly

DeWitt  Yes, biden's appointees to his Administration seem to all be pinioned upon their individual qualifications with some special sub-group that is a member of the "large tent that comprises the Democtatic Party" which biden desperately needs to Vote for him come November (and all the previous months of this year if the envelopes don't run out) of this year so that he can continue the Destruction. Bernstein was so befuddled that he almost said "my dog ate my homework" when asked how the Gubmint makes money. At Columbia his state would be termed "phlumoxxed" with arriving at a semblance to the question.  You covered it quite well when you stated  "They are either all communists, or they are Idiots" Might be redundant, but I like it. 

Its 11 am my time here in the Progressive Paradise called Mexifornia, I mean California, and still no sparkly bright comments from our own gaggle of Progressives. Wonder why? Must be doing Riot Tracking with the Hamas North American Fan Club. Supplying them with SaniWipes, Gluten Free Meatballs, and Vegan strained Veggies in those little Jars with the baby on them. 

Katie Baribeau (Moore)

Kelly, what scares you so much about the TRUTH.  The Lieutenant Governor, Republican from Georgia, did write the op-ed I shared, and as far as trump being on the verge of dementia, it was a report from hundreds of therapists.  The word hatred comes from you, not me.  Every human being deserves to be treated based on actions and words. trump is now getting the payback for years of illegal behavior and treating people badly.  I am really enjoying it.  I hope he goes to jail but if he doesn't, seeing him squirm for a few weeks will hold me over until he loses the Presidency.  After your last post I need to change your name to Pinocchio.  But it's OK...........you have fallen under the spell of a scam artist, and I know it's hard to admit it.  You use the word hatred, can you tell me the post where your dislike of Biden, or his people or policies doesn't jump out, I'll wait, just like I'm waiting for you to stand up behind you remarks that trump doesn't love him some dictators.......I'll bet neither will ever come.   You should know this from being a "lawyer," anybody can say the words but if there is no proof to back them up they become irrelevant.  BTW, I don't think our Progressive group needs to report on your timeline, we have lives.  

Richard, I hope for now I can include you in the Progressive group.  I know you are more independent, even old style Republican but you show respect for the truth and a willingness to research you issues.  
 

Richard Deshong

Katie, alas, I can’t accept your offer to be listed under the label Progressive. I really do consider myself a right of center Republican, no matter what my fairy god mother chooses to believe.

I too am heartened by the growing number of Republicans who are growing a pair and openly expressing their belief that another four years of a Trump administration would be bad for America. It is so easy for some to toss around unproven accusations and to continually fail to put up or shut up. As we both have said many times on this site, if a politician has broken the law then it needs to be proven in a court of law and they should be held accountable. I am thankful that the world is seeing that America is a country ruled by laws and that no one is above them, not even an ex-president. The last two top politicians that openly broke the law while in office, Agnew and Nixon, both were allowed to resign rather than face prosecution and potential jail time. Had they been held fully accountable for their actions maybe it would have served as an example of the consequences of illegal behavior in politics and we would not be suffering through this embarrassing nightmare Trump has created.

I will continue to be a voice of truth on this forum. It absolutely amazes me the way supposedly educated adults choose to conduct themselves when striking out against anyone who dares disagree with them. I challenge any of them to share their posts with their children, grandchildren and great grandchildren and truly listen to their views on the topics being debated. I know when I share the posts with my friends, many who themselves are very conservative, they shake their heads in disbelief in the open uncivility on our social media site.

Over that past couple of weeks, I have been reaching out to my Jewish friends to seek their opinions of what has been happening on many college campuses. To a person they have expressed their support of those who are protesting the indiscriminate bombing of Palestinians in Gaza. They are quick to point out that nearly forty percent of the peaceful protesters are Jews and remind me that over five percent of Palestinians are Jews. As one friend pointed out to me, when a bomb kills someone, or someone starves to death, it doesn’t matter what religion or nationality they were. Another friend, who happens to be a rabbi, commented that the references he saw on our forum to George Soros is considered one of the oldest and worst antisemitic comments clueless people make. It reinforces the belief that there is a cabal of wealthy Jews who are out to control the world. He went on to compare the many organizations the Soros Foundations supports to the way people like Robert Mercer, Trumps most major backer in 2016, choose to use their wealth to benefit the needy. It was a real revelation.

I’ll close this post with a bumper sticker some like to use:

Enforce the Law

We are watching the American judicial system do just that in real time.

Katie Baribeau (Moore)

OK, Richard, I respect your Republicanism.  I will from now on say the Progressives and Richard because no matter what, you post the truth, or your closely held beliefs.  Thank you for doing that.  I traveled to Israel with several Jewish people.  I find them to be supportive of a solution for the Israeli Palestinian problem. I haven't been in contact with them, the last few days are the first free days I've had for some time. I was also impressed with the daily life we saw in Jerusalem, Arabs and Israelis working and living next to each other with no issues.  The people want peace, in my opinion it is the politicians who have an agenda that keeps much of the division going. 

Richard Deshong

The parallels between what is going on with Netanyahu in Israel and with Trump here in America are amazing. The only way both can keep from going to jail is to hang onto what ever power they can. Without the far-right parties Netanyahu would be voted out in a heartbeat and made to face the corruption charges that are pending against him. His attempt to move Israel’s highest court under the umbrella of the executive branch is another of his desperate attempts to keep from having to face the music.

Likewise, Trump’s only hope is to win the presidency again and crush any not yet judicated charges against him and pardon himself of any charges of which he is found to be guilty should they make their way though the courts before the election.

To those alumni on the site who openly despise Trump the man but are l so willingly to follow him into the abyss because you believe he is the best thing since sliced bread, I once again challenge you to a point-by-point debate over his accomplishments as president. Don’t confuse this with a comparison to Biden, just a discussion of exactly why you think another four years of disfunction in Washington is so desirable. And, opinions don’t count, only quantifiable facts will be accepted.

Bill RIHS

Some on the Forum Don't know what is happened in the two tears of Justice underway. TDS is Truely amazing. The Trump people are training in the hills to take over our country(Maxine Waters). Some think MTG is radical😜. Heading to France in the AM. I may post or I may not.

Jim Coats

Bill.  Have a wonderful time.  Trip of a lifetime

Michael Kelly

Katie  Really eye opening how you have bared your Soul for all to be able to see.

Richard  I don't beleve for a micro-second that you are anywhere close to being a Republican, or a Conservative. I also don't beleive that you can engage in a comparison between Trump and Netanyahu. Trump holds no office now, and Netanyahu has naysayers who are in all likelihood sympathetic with the desires that Iran has for Israel's survival as a Nation. Demanding perfection from a man who is defending the Nation of Israel seems to be pretty shallow in light of what occurred on Oct. 7, 2023. 

I don't see any realistic linkage between Netanyahu and DJT right now. But of course, your way of thinking that has caused you to make such and illogical comparison prabably has its genesis with your hatred of DJT. I don't really understaind what you hate him for. but it seems to be very intense. You probably need to get some help for this. 

When Trump was president our Economy was booming. Food was cheaper. Gasoline was Cheaper, Travel was Cheaper, Clothes were Cheaper. Housing was Cheaper.People seemed Happier. Except for you and maybe Katie and some others. I think maybe us Conservatives are used to trying to  save people and we do so overmuch, when it is really a waste of time. Sorry to have bothered You Richard.

Michael Wetzel

Michael K., 

Your last paragraph, in you last post, says it all...And the rest of your post was good as well. But watch it, he only tells the truth you know. Just ask the ol drama queen.............

Bill, I wish you a great trip, be careful and have fun. Better watch your wallet, I have been reading alot about those Europeans, sneaky suckers, they are.........

Frank Wiley

Bill, Have a GREAT trip.  It's going to be emotional!  

Jim Coats

Average gasoline price in US today:  $3.66/gal.  Yesterday at COSTCO:  $4.10.

The left always wants to debate.  Well, here it is:  Biden is a Traitor.  Trump ain't.  End of debate.

SECURE THE BORDER!!  ENFORCE THE LAW!!  AMERICA FIRST!!

Frank Wiley

Our Country has spent 800 Billion on the Border/illegal alien crises so far.  (This includes Federal, State, and Cities). This is money we should be used to help the American Citizens, especially the poor.  Has this Travesty made us less safe?  Absolutely!!  Every day I read about crimes some of these illegals have committed.  This is totally at Biden's feet.  It is reported that we spent more on Illegals than what we spent on Medicare.  Trump is an Ass!  Biden is an idiot!  I'll take an Ass over an Idiot every time!!  

Richard Deshong

The US is pumping so much oil the resulting natural gas has reached a point where the oil companies are paying customers to take it off their hands. The only alternative is to flare it off in the fields, which runs afoul of air pollution regulations and results in fines. At the same time, OPEC is meeting to consider further reducing their oil exports to keep prices from free falling. Ukraine is targeting Russian refineries, and their oil exports are suffering accordingly. Yet, as pointed out, gas prices remain high. But there are those among you that continue to believe it is the White House, and not the marketplace and big oil companies, that set the price at the pump.

DeWitt Bacon

I might add one thing to Kelly's post 13617: Name one way we are better off now than we were four years ago. I can think of one or two ways. We can spend more time with our families at home now since we cannot afford to go anywhere, and many don't have jobs They cannot enjoy things they like to do, like going out to dinner or movies. And many are losing weight because they cannot afford to buy food. Four years ago we were establishing peace in the Middle East. We stopped sending money to Iran, which was sponsoring terrorists throughout the world, including Hamas. The economy was growing. Prices were stable. Israelis were living in relative peace. But today, shouts of "DEATH TO ISREAL" and "DEATH TO AMERICA" are acceptable, along with campus riots to those ends. Yes, we are so much better off today, right?

Michael Kelly

Coats Your 13620 BINGO!!!! HOMERUN!!!!! Michael W.  Glad you and your Wife are getting better. COVID can have a Kickback so get all your strength back. 

Richard "Dick" DeShong is now trying to tell us the HIGH GAS PRICES ARE THE RESULT OF THE EVIL AMERICAN OIL COMPANIES SOMEHOW CONTINUE TO DEVELOP AND PUMP OIL AND GLUT THE MARKET DESPITE  HERR BIDEN'S SHUT DOWN OF ALL OIL PRODUCTION BEYOND WHAT WAS CURRENTLY BEING PRODUCED ON JANUARY 21, 2021 WHICH ALL THE PROGRESSIVES HAILED AS A NEW AGE FOR ELECTRICAL VEHICLES, IMPROVEMENT OF THE WORLD THREATENING CLIMATE CHANGE, AND PUNISHMENT OF THE RICH  EVIL CAPITALISTIC MYSOGYNIST PIGS WHO DON'T PAY THEIR "FAIR SHARE" (AS IF BIDEN HAS EVER KISSED EITHER END OF WHAT IS A FAIR SHARE). In short, or long (think Stormy) that would give him a working concept of what is a "Fair Share" 

I really like how things are sort of unwinding randomly about the "Deep State' seems like their whole little Kit Bag is falling apart like a Cheap Cardboard Suitcase in a driving Rain. You may not have a suitcase to keep your clothes dry in while you ride the Bus, but you'll have a hell of a lot of Kleenex for your Cold you caugfht while wainting at the  Bust Stop. 

The price for a gallon of gasoline here in California is at an all time high, and California charges you state Tax of Fifty one Cents per gallon, and with Federal and state Taxes and Impound or other Fees, is a whopping One Dollar and Eighteen Cents per Gallon. The worst thing is that we as a Sanctuary State have us State Residents giving ILLEGAL ALIENTS FREE FOOD, FREE COLLEGE TUITION, FREE MEDICAL CARE, FREE RENT, AND FREE UTILITIES  NO WONDER THEY FEEL LIKE THEIR  HOME AGAIN.

Ron Hendrix

Patty, I've been in the same house for for 35 years so I would like to try Al's "old"address. Thanks RH

Patty Meyers (Anderson)

Ron, check the Message Center, I sent the info there.  I've been in the same place for 30 years so there is a possibility that he is as unimaginative as we are.

Patty

Frank Wiley

Beer Summit--Thursday, May 30th, The Vig on 40th Street at 4:30.  (Maybe we can avoid some traffic).  Thanks!!

Katie Baribeau (Moore)

It looks like there is another patriotic Republican.  

Former House Speaker Paul Ryan says he's not voting for Trump: 'Character is too important'

Katie Baribeau (Moore)

Kelly, let's get one issue finished,  I don't "bare my soul" in this forum. I post what I think is correct either factually or in my opinion.  Since you haven't met me or ever engaged in a true discussion with me, you have absolutely no idea who I am, execpt that I am a proud Progressive and I intend to continue working for Progressive ideas.  In addition the only reason you can't except Richard for being a Conservative is because he doesn't walk lock step with trump, a requirement in the trumpie party.  

trumpies trying to save people.  

What is the trumpie platform for medical insurance and support?  I have heard many times that trump has a plan, where is it?

What is the support for children.  Even though the trumpies are in favor of forced birth they certainly don't want to do anything after that birth.  SNAP payments that would take food away from more than one million low income people, trumpies against.  trumpies are prepared to sink the child tax credit bill as of April 1, 2024.  This benefits about 16 million children in low income households.  As of November 13, 2023 House trumpies threaten the Public Education and Opportunity for Young People bill in the House.  The trumpies want to vastly cut support for economically disadvantaged students and eliminate important programs in the K-12 education, youth workforce development and higher education spheres.  The trumpie bill also eliminates funding for Title II-A of the ESEA which provides funding for preparing, training and recruiting high-quality teachers, principles and support staff.  etc. etc.

As far as the price of gasoline which all you trumpies push in our faces constantly, here is some information.  Four years ago we were entering the Covid epidemic.  People were driving less.  Supply and demand down equals lower prices.  Even at the lower prices the oil companies were making money. 6/30/20 earnings $43.818B, 6/30/21 earnings 41.529B, 6/30/22 earnings $91.013B, 6/30/23 earnings 104.159B.  These earnings are in addition to tax payments that have dropped to 3% over the past 5 years on massive cuts passed under........you guessed it, trump.  In addition to that, Exxon CEO's pay rose a whopping 52% in 2022.  So gas pricing is based  on corporate greed.  Yes, corporations for the most part support the Republicans, because the Repubicans give them whatever they want and they turn it into lots of money for the management.  They get very rich at the expense of the middle class.  It is called trickle up economics.  There used to be ethics classes in most business schools, not so much anymore.  The trumpies of made financial ethics a thing of the past.  Capitalism depends on an amount of ethics to work...........enter the trumpies who say we will give tax breaks to the uttra rich and get it from the middle class and the poor.  So continue to whine about fuel prices, while you do it I play the world smallest violin.  The companies aren't evil, they fight for the bottom line and will take each and every break handed to them by the trumpies.  It's kind of human nature........but it would really be nice to find some ethics again, people who really wanted the US to grow and prosper.  This kind of makes me laugh, my grandson just bought a big GMC truck.  He traded in his Tesla because he was concerned about the heat and fires.  He went from electric to a gas guzzler getging 20-24 mpg.  He started to complain about gas prices because of the new truck.  I sat and talked with him.  He thinks he has the right to get whatever truck he wants, yes, and that he should be able to afford it........well, not so much.  No one gives you a free ride and the GMC monster will let him know that in real time.  He's the Republican in the family but he won't vote for trump, thankfully.

Yes, I am better off now than I was four years ago, I had 3 more relatives, they sadly perished from Covid when trump was still mishandling it.  (Listen to the trump tapes, he says it himself.). I have more money now, the stock market is doing quite well.  There are many reasons I'm better off, one just because trump isn't in the White House.  My dogs don't live in South Dakota so I think they are safe.  Yup, everything good here.  

Katie Baribeau (Moore)

Richard, don't wait for you point by point debate....it will never happen.  I challenged Kelly to a debate over trumps love of dictators.....nope, can't do.  He can only say the words, not support them with facts.  Same with others.  Of course a debate is NWHFT for Coates.  I think I have the answer.  It's because once they move outside the trumpie talking points, they are totally lost.  As Coats put is in #13620, Biden is a Traitor, trump ain't. End of debate.  That's the lock step.  But I must admit it is easier.  You never have to think or research, you just get up every morning and think, WWtD.

Michael Wetzel

Just saying something, doesn't make it factual. PROOF, PROOF, PROOF................