It's Hemmer Time

The Obama Administration has taken yet another step in attempts to garnish more power for the Democratic Party in the years to come.  A few weeks ago, in a story that has been largely ignored by the mainstream media, the White House took over control of the 2010 U.S. Census from the Commerce Department.  This was an unprecedented act.  It may also be deemed unconstitutional.  Not only did this power grab contribute to Republican Judd Gregg's decision to withdraw his nomination to become the head of the Commerce Department, but it should be setting off alarms to people who want to ensure honest elections in the future.  By controlling the U.S. Census, the White House can redraw boundaries as it sees fit and manipulate the re-districting of congressional seats.  Several Republicans have expressed their views as to this recent action by the Obama Administration. 

From WorldNetDaily.com (2/26/09) by Drew Zahn:

"This action appears to be motivated by politics, rather than the interests of our country,"  House Minority Leader John A. Boehner (R-Ohio) said in a statement.  "The United States Census should remain independent of politics;  it should not be directed by political operatives working out of the White House."

A senior Republican Aide said "With all of its political implications, hijacking the census from the Commerce Department and letting it run out of Rahm's (Emmanuel) office is like putting PETA in charge of issuing hunting permits."

Congressional Quarterly reports that Rep. Darrell Issa (R-CA), the top Republican on the House Government Reform Committee, said the proposed move may even be in violation of federal law.  "Any attempt by the Obama administration to circumvent the census process for their political benefit will be met with fierce opposition,"  said Issa.  "This ill-conceived proposal undermines a constitutionally obligated process that speaks to the very heart of our democracy."

Bruce Chapman, director of the U.S. Census Bureau under President Reagan had the following to say:

"Everyone knows that it is possible to organize a decennial census in a way that benefits one party or another politically.  One way to effectuate this otherwise unpalatable departure from the Census Bureau's 200-year history of non-partisanship is to put the Bureau administratively under the direction of politicos in the White House.  In reality, that would be a sure invitation to cook the books on the highly consequential count of Americans.  The only reason the White House would want to be involved is in figuring out how to add more voting power to certain states and groups within states."  Chapman also adds, "Power flows from an accurate census count.  Everyone involved for years has seen the count therefore as a sacred trust.  It must not be polluted with even a semblance of presidential meddling."

How true.  So now the White House for the time being, will control the U.S. Census.  We'll have to see what happens. 

Here's part two of the power grab.  If you blinked, you might have missed it.  Check out the Milwaukee Journal/Sentinel from Wednesday, February 25th.  On page 12A is the following story, "D.C. steps closer to voting rights."  The title itself is misleading and almost makes it sound as though people living in Washington D.C. cannot vote!  That is not true.  Instead, what the District of Columbia does not have is a fully vested representative in Congress.  They do have a member in Congress (Eleanor Holmes Norton) who can serve on committees, draft legislation and participate in debates, but she cannot vote.  What Obama and the Democrats are now trying to do is push through a bill allowing the District of Columbia to have a fully vested representative - meaning voting power.  Given that more than 75% of D.C. resident voters are Democrats, its a given that the seat would go to a Democrat.   Oh, by the way, in order to placate angry Republicans at this latest attempt to grab another seat for themselves, Democrats have said that Utah may be allowed another seat, too.  Even though it's not a given that seat will go to a Republican. 

Two years ago, the Democrats and Obama tried to get this same legislation passed.  It failed in the Senate and President Bush had vowed to veto it, should it have reached his desk.  Bush's reason for the veto was simple - the bill violates the Constitution.  The Constitution specifically states that the House must consist of members chosen "by the people of the states."  The District of Columbia is NOT a state.  From Bloomberg.com (2/21/09):  "Even if the push to give Washington D.C. a voting House member gets signed into law, a constitutional challenge is expected from opponents arguing that the District was specifically envisioned by the Founding Fathers as a democratic anomaly without federal representation."

So, yet another example of Democrats trying to position themselves to remain in power for a good, long time.  Doing what's best for the country?  I don't think so.  Doing what is best for themselves?  You got it.  The only good thing that may come out of this is that Democrats may not need the help of voter fraud groups like ACORN to win elections anymore. 

All right, I admit it.  I couldn't stomach watching President Obama's "State of the Union" (or whatever you want to call it) address last night.  His speeches seem to always have two things in common - great tone, little substance.    In addition, whenever he opens his mouth, Mr. Obama seems incapable of telling the truth.  He's a smooth talker, telling people what they want to hear.  Never mind if he's being honest or not.   Kind of like a former president of ours who liked to romp after young interns in the Oval Office. 

(Besides, "The Family Guy" was on TBS, and it was re-running the episode where Stewie kills Lois - a must-see for any "Family Guy" fan.  Too funny to miss....)

However, I did manage to catch the media gushing about Obama' speech after it was over.  Ann Compton rambled on and on about how wonderful Obama's address was.  I almost thought she'd pass out, she was so excited.  Get the smelling salts!  Who cares about being unbiased when "The One" has spoken?!?   (I think Ann and Katie Couric may be sisters....)   Ann gushed: How confident and direct - (and, well, presidential!) our president appeared!  Well Ann, Hitler was a great speaker too, and look how that turned out.  Now before lefties burst a blood vessel, in no way - shape - or form,  am I saying that Obama is the same as Hitler.  (Even though it was just fine for some lefties to call President Bush by that name.  That was OK!)  All I am saying is that Hitler spoke well and Obama does, too.  Both appealed to the masses, and the masses never knew what hit them.   Clinton was also a great orator - and look at what a scumbag he was! 

Sometimes how well one speaks doesn't mean a thing.  It is what you say and how truthful you are that counts.  It's like campaigning as a moderate to get elected, then turning around and leading as one of the most ultra-liberal presidents America has ever had the horrors of seeing in office.  Obama continues to tell many people what they want to hear while he is in front of the cameras, then he turns around and does something completely different when the cameras aren't rolling. 

The Republican rebuttal to Obama's magic show was led by Governor Bobby Jindal of Louisiana.  Governor Jindal came through with flying colors - by not allowing Obama to get away with misleading the American people with words.  Governor Jindal could be a strong candidate for President come 2012. 

Just a few excerpts from Governor Jindal's Republican rebuttal to Obama's "State of the Union":

"The strength of America is not  found in our government.  It is found in the compassionate hearts and enterprising spirit of our citizens."

"To solve our current problems, Washington must lead.  But the way to lead is not to raise taxes and put more money and power in hands of Washington politicians.  The way to lead is by empowering you - the American people.  Because we believe that Americans can do anything."

"Democratic leaders say their legislation (The $800 billion Economic Stimulus ("Porkulus") Bill) will grow the economy.  What it will do is grow the government, increase our taxes down the line, and saddle future generations with debt.  Who among us would ask our children for a loan, so we could spend money we don't have, on things we do not need?  That is precisely what the Democrats in Congress did.  It's irresponsible.  And it's no way to strengthen our economy, create jobs, or build a prosperous future for our children."  

"To strengthen our economy, we must promote confidence in America by ensuring ours is the most ethical and transparent system in the world....  We need to bring transparency to Washington D.C. - so we can rid our Capitol of corruption - and ensure we never see the passage of another trillion dollar spending bill that Congress has not even read and the American people haven't even seen."

"...we must remember for all our troubles at home, dangerous enemies still seek our destruction.  Now is no time to dismantle the defenses that have protected this country for hundreds of years, or make deep cuts in funding our troops.  American's fighting men and women can do anything.  And if we give them the resources they need, they will stay on the offensive...defeat our enemies...and protect us from harm."

"In recent years, these distinctions in philosophy (between Democrats and Republicans)  became less clear - because our party got away from its principles.  You elected Republicans to champion limited government, fiscal discipline, and personal responsibility.  Instead, Republicans went along with earmarks and big government, spending in Washington.  Republicans lost your trust, and rightly so.  Tonight, on behalf of our leaders in Congress and my fellow Republican governors, I say:  Our party is determined to regain your trust.  We will do so by standing up for the principles that we share...the principles you elected us to fight for ...the principles that built this into the greatest, most prosperous country on earth."

 And did anyone question why Obama's address was on almost every major news channel, as well as most cable channels?  When did that ever happen when Bush was president?  As I recall, many news stations even REFUSED to air Bush speeches - click on:  http://www.signonsandiego.com/news/world/iraq/20040524-1338-bushspeech-tv.html  for an example from May 24, 2004. 

In one month, Obama has done more damage to this country than anyone ever imagined. (Rasmussen Poll numbers also show Obama's approval rating shrinking from 67% on 1/20/09 to 59% on 2/25/09.  Maybe the American people are finally realizing they were bamboozled.)  We've just seen the largest spending spree in the history of our country shoved down our throats - with no time for scrutiny or debate.  Ironically,  Obama then appears on national television and states that he is going to be "fiscally responsible."  Somehow, the two just don't go together.   America can be sure of the following under Obama:    taxes and inflation will skyrocket, debt will increase like never before, big government will get even bigger, and our economy will morph into socialism.  And the one area where our government will actually come through with big budget cuts?  You guessed it - our military.  And the American people cannot rely on our mainstream media for honest reporting when it comes to President Obama.    Our future looks very bleak, no matter how much Obama & Co. want to try to sugar coat it.  

Two major incidents in the war on terror have occurred in the past few days. 

First, President Obama is going to be sending 17,000 MORE troops to Afghanistan.  Yes, that word was "sending" - not "bringing home." 

 In addition, President Obama recently agreed that Afghan detainees have no rights.  What????  How can that be?  Look at the detainees in Club Gitmo!  Why, they can use our court system and file grievances, etc. all in the name of "justice."  Who cares that upon release, these same terrorist thugs may go back out on the battlefield again and try to kill U.S. soldiers?

Click on this link for more on the 17,000 U.S. soldiers going to Afghanistan:  http://abcnews.go.com/Politics/President44/story?id=6899206&page=1

 Check here for news on Obama denying Afghan detainees any rights:  http://blogs.usatoday.com/ondeadline/2009/02/siding-with-bus.html

While I am very happy that Obama has chosen to follow in his predecessors footsteps in dealing with the War on Terror in these two examples, I am sure many Democrats and liberals are not.  Yet, where is the outcry?  Where are the stories from the media about Obama lying?  Where is the anger?  The fact that many Obama supporters have been duped?  After all, Obama did say he would bring home our troops shortly after reaching the Oval Office.  And he said he'd shut Club Gitmo down.  Yet, what Obama is doing now is the exact opposite.  Shouldn't that be reported on?  Why the silence?   

Can anyone tell me why President Bush was criticized for every move he made concerning the War on Terror by Democrats and liberals on a daily basis, yet Obama can do EXACTLY the same thing and that seems to be just fine and dandy?

Guess the left just couldn't support the war effort before January 20th, 2009,  BECAUSE Bush was president.  What hypocrisy.

"Socialism is a philosophy of failure, the creed of ignorance, and the gospel of envy.  It's inherited value is the equal sharing of misery."  -  Winston Churchill

"You cannot legislate the poor into freedom by legislating the wealthy out of freedom.  What one person receives without working for, another person must work for without receiving. The government cannot give to anybody anything that the government does not first take from somebody else.  When half of the people get the idea that they do not have to work because the other half is going to take care of them, and when the other half gets the idea that it does no good to work because somebody else is going to get what they work for, that my dear friend, is about the end of any nation.  You cannot multiply wealth by dividing it."  - Dr. Adrian Rogers, 1931-2005

"A government big enough to give you everything you want, is big enough to take away everything you have."
                                                                                                                                  -  Thomas Jefferson

 Truer words were never spoken.  Yet, with the recent passage of President Obama's "Economic Stimulus Bill", Americans are getting their first glimpse of the disappearance of our country as we know it.  $787 billion dollars and growing.   This bill only has 7% set aside for real "economic stimulus."  The rest of the bill is laden with socialist and welfare pork in it, solely designed to grow government and take away from hard working Americans.  For many Obama supporters, this is considered a triumph.  What they had actually "hoped" for.  The blame-America first crowd is applauding the passage of this spending monstrosity and cheering.  I doubt that half of them really know why.   I also doubt that many of these same people do not realize that the government does not produce money.  Taxpayers produce money.  American taxpayers will be responsible for paying for this bill for decades to come. 

Cuba, Venezuela, North Korea, China......and America!  Our leadership in Washington D.C. these days has shown it's hand.  Finally the truth is coming out.  All the warning signs were there, and 52% of Americans failed to notice them.  From the poster of Che Guevara in a Barack Obama campaign headquarters in Texas, to redesigning the American flag logo during campaigning,  to numerous friendships with Marxists, domestic terrorists, and racists, and the all-telling "spread the wealth" comment to Joe the Plumber - we all knew about Obama's background.  Yet we were led to believe that it just didn't matter.  His friendships didn't matter.  Who he followed and listened to didn't matter.  What he said and thought about our country didn't matter!  What his wife said about "never being proud" of her country didn't matter.  He was a moderate!!!  Well, that was a big fat lie.    Half of America was fooled.  Unless, of course, they wanted to vote for socialism - then they got their wish!!!  Bravo!

America was created as the land of the free, home of the brave.  Our economic system is still based on capitalism, but in the liberal world that is a very bad thing.  Capitalism promotes all the values that liberals hate.  Individuals have the ability to fend for themselves - to better their lives without government intrusion.  Capitalism in itself stimulates creativity, challenges, and a desire for many to better themselves.  People can do what they want - they can become what they want.  They can achieve their dreams by working hard.  Everyone has an equal opportunity to do so.  Many of these liberties cannot be found in other countries.  Americans know that by learning, working hard, and leading productive lives, they can achieve anything.  And many people are able to reap the benefits,  for which they deserve.  Yet, liberals do not think this is right.  They want to take away from the "haves."  Class envy is a cornerstone of liberalism. 

Why should some have so much, when others don't!  Somehow that is wrong.  Never mind that maybe the "haves" have actually worked hard to earn everything they have.  And the "have-nots" may have made some bad choices.  Maybe they didn't finish high school.  Maybe they had children when they were too young and/or unmarried.  Maybe they abused drugs and/or alcohol.  Maybe some are just lazy!  Yet, those who work their butts off to make a living are now going to be held even more responsible for the well-being of those who are irresponsible?  And before liberals get all huffy and feign outrage at my words, I do realize that some people in our country do need help.  Those with real medical issues, who want to work but due to physical or mental hardships cannot.  Those who have lost a job and are trying to get back in the work force.  I understand that and agree that at times,  a helping hand is required.  But I have no sympathy for those in society who make no effort to achieve anything on their own, and continue to live off the government while making no attempts to better themselves, or live responsibly.  And I do not feel that those who "have" should be forced by Obama & Co. to share our earnings with them even more than we do now.  We are all doomed to turn into a nation of Katrina victims.  Sitting on our butts waiting for the government to rescue us.  And Obama & Co. couldn't be happier.  Pathetic. 

On Monday (2/16/09), the Milwaukee Journal/Sentinel ran a story on page 8A - main section - "Venezuelans vote down term limits."   (I couldn't provide a link to the on-line version of the MJS, but I found the same AP story, by Niko Price here:  http://www.breitbart.com/article.php?id=D96CD0C01&show_article=1  Please read through the entire article before going on to my re-written version.) 

 While going over this article, I found it was way too easy to transpose the words "America" in place of Venezuela, and "Obama" in place of Hugo Chavez.  I think this article, as re-written, provides a real glimpse into the future of America. 

Here is the entire column, with my changes noted in underlined bold italics:

 AMERICANS VOTE DOWN TERM LIMITS

Decision paves way for President Obama to stay in office.

by Amy L.Geiger-Hemmer

President Obama won a referendum to eliminate term limits Sunday, paving the way for him to run again in 2016 - and beyond - and push through his vision of a socialist America.

Fireworks exploded in the sky, and caravans of supporters celebrated in the streets, waving red flags and honking horns.

With 94% of the vote counted, 54% had voted in favor of the constitutional amendment, National Electoral Council chief David Axelrod announced.  Forty-six percent had voted against the measure to eliminate term limits of all public officials, too few to make up the distance with the remaining votes.

"Today, we opened wide the gates of the future.   America will not return to its past of indignity," Obama proclaimed, after singing the national anthem from the balcony of the White House.

At their campaign headquarters, Obama opponents who have said the amendment pushes America closer to dictatorship hugged one another and cried.  Several opposition leaders left without speaking, but those who remained said they wouldn't contest the vote.

"We accept this result,"  said Paul Ryan.  "We're still standing.  We're committed to America."

Voters on both sides said their decision was crucial to the future of America, a deeply polarized country, where Obama has spent a tumultuous short time in power, channeling tremendous tax increases into combating gaping social inequality. 

The recorded blare of bugles jarred Americans awake before dawn, and long lines formed even before the polls opened at 6 a.m.  Information minister Hillary Clinton projected turnout as high as 70%.

People voting "yes" said Obama has given poor Americans cheap food, free education and good health care, and empowered them with a discourse of class struggle after decades of favoring the rich.  No successor has emerged, and voters said that gains would vanish if Obama left office.

"If Obama loses, his social achievements will all disappear," said Michelle Obama, his wife.

People voting "no" said Obama already has far too much power, with the courts, the legislature, and the election council all under his influence.  Removing the 8-year presidential term limit would make him unstoppable.

"If he wins, he'll be unleashed, and he'll make us like Cuba, because that's what he really wants,"  said Adriana Hernandez, 19, an engineering student.  "He'll create laws by decree and go after private property."

Polls by Gallup, a survey firm, showed that Obama made up a 17-point deficit in the last six weeks by targeting the 20% of the electorate who said he had been a good president but who were reluctant to let him stay in power indefinitely.

Obama took office in 2009.  The vote Sunday was his second attempt to change the term limits for the office of the president.

America's leftist allies in Latin America have followed the model.  Ecuador pushed through a new constitution in September, and Bolivia did so in January;  both loosened rules on presidential re-elections.  Nicaragua's ruling Sandinistas plan to propose an amendment that would let Daniel Ortega run for another consecutive term.

America has had several elections or referendums during Obama's time in office, which Obama supporters have said proves his dedication to democracy and which supporters have called tiresome.

Obama argued he needs more time to complete America's  transition to socialism—a process he has said could take another decade or more. He says his "little change" deepens democracy by giving voters more options.

Obama warned his opponents—whom he calls "sore losers"—to respect the results.

"Any attempt to take us down the path of violence, by failing to recognize the results of the people's will, will be neutralized," he proclaimed.

End of story. 

But wait, I've got more!  There IS actually a movement to change the current presidential term limits of 8 years - click on :  http://hotair.com/archives/2009/01/13/hope-and-change-move-to-repeal-presidential-term-limits-started/

Scary stuff.

How ironic is this?  Russian Prime Minister Vladamir Putin, leader of one of the first socialist countries in the world,  is warning the United States about our current "Economic Stimulus Bill" and the dire consequences we may be facing because of it.  Yes, Russia!

Please read the entire article at:  http://www.therightperspective.org/?p=1472    The first two paragraphs, which ought to scare everyone, are re-printed below:

"Russian Prime Minister Vladamir Putin has said the US should take a lesson from the pages of Russian history and not exercise “excessive intervention in economic activity and blind faith in the state’s omnipotence”.

“In the 20th century, the Soviet Union made the state’s role absolute,” Putin said during a speech at the opening ceremony of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. “In the long run, this made the Soviet economy totally uncompetitive. This lesson cost us dearly. I am sure nobody wants to see it repeated.”

America needs to heed Putin's warning.  Already we have the "Economic Stimulus Bill" - rushed through without thorough examination, and full of welfare and socialist pork which is setting us up for years of debt, higher taxes, and rocketing inflation.  In other words, a big fall is coming and the outlook is bleak. 

I think the "blind faith" Putin refers to are the Obamazombies - which include our mainstream media -  who seem to think that Obama can do no wrong and must not be questioned on anything.  After all, Obama IS a rock star, The Chosen One, the Messiah!!!  How stupid a country we have become!  Like they say, we sure deserve the government we elect.  52% of Americans were fooled when they went to the polls.   Many are still following Obama with blinders on.  Stop drinking that B.O.  Kool-Aid now - it's tainted!!! 

Even Russia knows America is headed for disaster - just after a few short weeks of "leadership" under Obama...   

A special "thanks" to my sister in conservatism, Moe, for sending me the following e-mail.  "Eight Years Later" highlights the differences between Bush, Clinton, Obama, and the mainstream media.  An interesting read for all.

DIFFERENCE OF EIGHT YEARS

INAUGURATION DAY:

Yesterday:  Outgoing President George W. Bush quietly boards his helicopter and leaves for Texas, commenting only "Today is not about me.  Today is a historical day for our nation and people."

Eight years ago yesterday:  Outgoing President Bill Clinton schedules two separate radio addresses to the nation, and organizes a public farewell speech/rally in downtown Washington, D.C.  This is scheduled to directly conflict with incoming President Bush's inauguration ceremony.

PRESIDENTIAL PARDONS:

Yesterday:  President Bush leaves office without issuing a single Presidential pardon, only granting a commutation of sentence to two former border patrol agents convicted of shooting a convicted drug smuggler.  He does not grant any type of clemency to Scooter Libby or any other former political aide, ally, or business partner.

Eight years ago yesterday:  President Clinton issues 140 pardons and several commutations of sentence on his final day in office.  Included in these are:  billionaire financier, convicted tax evader, and leading Democratic campaign contributor Marc Rich;  Whitewater scandal figure Susan McDougal; Congressional Post Office scandal figure and former Democratic Congressman Dan Rostenkowski; convicted bank fraud, sexual assault, and child porn perpetrator and former Democratic Congressman Melvin Reynolds; and convicted drug felon Roger Clinton, the President's half-brother.

LEAVING THE WHITE HOUSE:

Yesterday:  The Bush daughters leave gift baskets in the White House bedrooms for the Obama daughters, containing flowers, candy, stuffed animals, DVD's and CD's.  They also leave heartfelt notes of encouragement and advice for the young girls on how to prepare for their new lives in the White House.

Eight years ago yesterday:  Clinton and Gore staffers rip computer wires and electrical outlets from the White House walls, stuff piles of notebook papers into the White House toilets, systematically remove the letter "W" from every computer keypad in the entire White House, and damage several thousand dollars worth of furniture in the White House master bedroom.

And the most telling regarding mainstream media bias:

NEWSPAPER HEADLINES FROM FOUR YEARS AGO:

"Republicans spending $42 million on inauguration while troops die in unarmored Humvees."

"Bush extravagance exceeds any reason during tough economic times."

"Fat cats get their $42 million inauguration party, ordinary Americans get the shaft."

NEWSPAPER HEADLINES FROM JANUARY, 2009:

"Historic Obama inauguration will cost only $170 million."

"Obama spends $170 million on inauguration - America needs a big party."

"Everyman Obama shows America how to celebrate."

"Citibank executives contribute $8 million to Obama inauguration."

No, the title of my blog post did not come from the National Enquirer.  Nor did it come from People Magazine, Us,  The Star, or Cosmopolitan.   

What we have here is yet another excellent example of just how devoted to Obama our mainstream media is.  On a day when the media could be doing their jobs (a concept they seem to have forgotten) and informing Americans about all the socialist and welfare garbage hidden in the so-called "Economic Stimulus Bill", or reporting on the White House taking over control of the U.S. Census for 2010 (which may be unconstitutional) these are the kinds of stories we are getting.  What about an article on the fact (and it is a fact) that Health Care reform is buried within the Stimulus Bill?  We are heading towards socialism and disaster on so many fronts, yet our mainstream media chooses to print cutsie stories on Barry and Michelle! 

By the way, the headline to my post came from:   Page 3A of the front section of the Milwaukee Journal/Sentinel for February 14, 2009.  I kid you not. 

Here's an adorable excerpt:  

"She's a busy mother of two and a full-time executive at a film distribution company, but sometimes Susan Margolin can't help it:  She searches for Barack and Michelle Obama on Google - not to check in on his latest policy initiatives, but what to see what they're doing as a couple."

And another (it may be getting difficult not to barf):

"Just in time for Valentine's Day, it's the season of the PDA in the White House - and we're not talking about Obama's prized Blackberry."

Here's my personal favorite out of all the drivel:

"You feel there's some real presidential whoopee going on, and more power to them."  Coles says.

I swear I cannot make this stuff up.  This type of reporting is unprecedented.  Is this even real reporting???   Is this kind of stuff  "newsworthy?"  By the way,  stories about Iraq and Pakistan - you know, the war on terror - follow on pages 4A and 7A.  Guess they are less important than letting us know the Obama's are hot for one another.  That they are THE couple that we all aspire to be like.    

One conservative blogger made a classic observation after Obama's press conference last week. ( You know, the news conference where Obama was trying to sell the phony economic stimulus bill  to ignorant Obamazombies and others.)   Anyhow, the  blogger mentioned he was surprised no one in the news media slipped in any of the drool on the floor....

The Milwaukee Journal/Sentinel ran a story (2/13/09) titled:  "Gregg withdraws as commerce pick."  The article is about Republican Senator Judd Gregg,  who just withdrew his nomination to become President Obama's commerce secretary.  (No, unlike numerous Obama Democratic cabinet nominees, Gregg actually paid his taxes!)  Within the story, Gregg's main reasons for dropping out are briefly referenced:

 "Gregg, of New Hampshire, cited irresolvable conflicts with Obama's policies, specifically mentioning the $789 billion economic stimulus bill and 2010 census in a statement released without warning by his Senate office."

Well, we all know why Gregg isn't too pleased with the  "Economic Stimulus Bill", - a bill loaded with socialist and welfare pork.  63% of  Americans aren't happy with it, either.  However, what we don't know from this article is just "why" Gregg isn't pleased with the 2010 census.  And if you read the entire article, you won't know either, since the 2010 census is not mentioned again.

What President Obama, his Administration, and the mainstream media don't want the American people to know is that the White House is trying to take over control of the 2010 Census.  Census duties are supposed to fall to the Department of Commerce.    Gregg, who was picked to become secretary of that department, wasn't considered trustworthy enough by Obama and fellow Dems to handle census duties.  (Possibly because he is a conservative Republican???)   With a census comes re-districting, which can change voting patterns, representatives, etc.  Looks like Obama, (aside from still campaigning!) is planning ahead on getting re-elected in 2012.  The  "Economic Stimulus Bill" is the first step, in that it gives money to groups that promote voter fraud (almost $5 billion to ACORN).  Secondly, by taking over the U.S. Census, districts can be manipulated to achieve maximum votes/seats. 

Why the 2010 Census power-grab isn't big news is very puzzling - and troubling.  The mainstream media has apparently taken over the job of running interference for their man. The first example is the reporting on the Economic Stimulus Bill.  The media made sure that no one in the public knew exactly what is in the bill (aka "The Generational Theft Act").  They have avoided reporting on all the pork, and the fact that only 7% of the bill has anything to do with "stimulus."  They also made no mention that Health Care reform was buried deep within this legislation.  Health Care reform is a big issue for many Americans. Obama, the Democrats, and the media clearly know that.  To go behind the backs of the American people and slip Health Care reform into this monstrosity of a spending bill, without telling the American people, is disingenuous. 

Now we have little, if any, reporting on the status of the 2010 Census.  Many questions need to be asked.    Why isn't the media asking why the White House wants to take over the 2010 Census? Such a thing has never been done before.  Could Raul Emmanuel be behind this,  since it is similar to Chicago-style politics?  When one needs more votes and/or power, why not manipulate redistricting of congressional seats?   Imagine if former President Bush tried to do such a thing.  Would the mainstream media have ignored it?  

From Worldnet.daily (2/7/09):

  "This action appears to be motivated by politics, rather than the interests of our country," House Minority Leader John A. Boehner, R-Ohio, said in a statement. "The United States Census should remain independent of politics; it should not be directed by political operatives working out of the White House."

From Newsbusters.org (2/10/09): 

Here's an argument that it's unconstitutional for the President to take over the Census from the secretary of commerce. It goes like this: Article I, Section 2 of the Constitution provides for an "actual enumeration" and a statute passed by Congress provides that the duties under this clause are to be performed by the secretary of commerce. Article I (as Joseph Biden didn't know in debate) is about the legislative, not the executive branch. Hence, it is argued, the president can't substitute a sampling for the enumeration required to be done by the secretary.

But at last night’s presidential news conference, there were zero questions about the Census, or about the tax troubles of multiple Obama cabinet nominees -- although a Washington Post reporter did ask the President about the reported steroid use of baseball player Alex Rodriguez.

 The main focus of the Obama White House does not seem to be in doing what is best for America.  By their recent actions, it has become clear that Obama and the Democrats want to remain in power for  long time to come.  They will do anything, apparently, to achieve this goal.

Betsy McCaughey, (a former lieutenant governor of New York and presently an adjunct senior fellow at the Hudson Institute) writing for the Bloomberg Report, scrutinized the Obama "Economic Stimulus Plan" more thoroughly than most Democrats and Republicans in the House and Senate.  Within the plan, she discovered a total revamping of the United States Health-care System.  Why this is buried within this so-called "stimulus" bill is questionable.  Why the American people haven't been informed of this is questionable, too.  Yet remember, we have to rush this bill through!  No questions asked!  We are being told that the economy is tanking!   If this plan is not enacted as quickly as possible, we will all face gloom and doom for years to come! (Sounds similar to what lefties have been saying about "Global Warming" now for years!)

Well, I for one am very skeptical that the Economic Stimulus Plan is going to do anything to jump start our economy.  We are better off not doing anything than allowing the piece of garbage legislation to pass.  Unfortunately, it did pass in the Senate on 2/10/09.  Thankfully, no real Republicans voted for it.  The usual RINO's (Republicans in name only -  do I even have to mention names?) - Olympia Snow, Susan Collins, and Arlen Specter, voted for it.  Hopefully these three stooges will be voted out of office when they come up for re-election.  And when this bill fails - and it will - the American voters will also hold the Democrats and Obama accountable. 

Anyhow, McCaughey has posted an interesting piece on how Obama & Co. wish to change health-care as we know it - into the European version.  Read on:

http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601039&refer=columnist_mccaughey&sid=aLzfDxfbwhzs

One small blurb from McCaughey's column:

"A year ago, Daschle wrote that the next president should act quickly before critics mount an opposition. “If that means attaching a health-care plan to the federal budget, so be it,” he said. “The issue is too important to be stalled by Senate protocol.”  

More scrutiny needed.

"The health-care industry is the largest employer in the U.S. It produces almost 17 percent of the nation’s gross domestic product. Yet the bill treats health care the way European governments do: as a cost problem instead of a growth industry. Imagine limiting growth and innovation in the electronics or auto industry during this downturn. This stimulus is dangerous to your health and the economy."

What a health-care provision has to do with "stimulating the economy" escapes me, but most of the economic stimulus bill does nothing to stimulate the economy, anyhow.  So, I guess it fits right in!

In keeping with the theme of "sneaking things in",  just recently President Obama and the White House have said that they are going to be taking over the U.S. Census duties in 2010.  Not many people have heard about this.  I think Chicago-style politics have really come to Washington, D.C.  Perhaps Raul Emmanuel suggested this idea to Obama.  Great way to redraw the lines on districts to benefit your party, if you are looking for more votes!  People should be outraged - and very little coverage from the mainstream media on this recent development! 

Please see:  http://newsbusters.org/blogs/rich-noyes/2009/02/10/networks-silent-white-house-grab-2010-census

Hopefully this power grab will be ruled unconstitutional...

 Remember years ago when Bill Clinton was elected to his first term as President of the United States?  The American people were told what a bargain we got - two Clintons for the price of one!  Hillary was said to be Bill's "Co-President."  What a deal!  Then Hillary went on to write her legislation for Health Care reform (Hillarycare), which went over like a lead balloon....and we realized maybe the bargain wasn't that great...

Well, it seems that history has repeated itself.  While the American people did indeed elect Barack Obama to be our 44th President of the United States, we seem to have elected the first woman president, too!  Nancy Pelosi, who could not get elected to the office of president on her own, has become our defacto first woman president.  We should all be doing cartwheels - our first African-American president AND our first woman president!  What a great time to be an American!  History continues to be made!

Need proof?  One need only to look at the recent "Economic Stimulus Bill."  This bill was drafted, reviewed, and finalized by Nancy Pelosi, with input from a handful of congressional Democrats.    Barack Obama had nothing to do with drafting the Economic Stimulus Bill - yet he has been forced to take ownership of this debacle.  Why in the world he turned over this massive legislation responsibility to Pelosi is puzzling.  The bill truly could have had the best interests of America at heart.  It could have been structured for the sole purpose of jump-starting our economy.  This legislation could have been Obama's big chance - to show himself as a true representative of the people, if he had played an actual role in writing it.  Obama could have allowed bipartisanship to enter into drafting some of this legislation that may have really had the best intentions to aid our current economic crisis.  Instead, the American people have been given little more than a Pelosi/Reid Democratic wish list - going back years. 

The Economic Stimulus Bill is not a stimulus bill at all.  The name itself is totally deceiving.  Some are saying only 7% (yes, just 7%) of this almost-trillion dollar bill will actually do anything to get the economy moving in the right direction.  Remember how "one can put lipstick on a pig, but it's still a pig?"  Well, there is so much pork in this bill that it is indeed a pig!  There is no amount of lipstick available to sugarcoat it any other way.  This bill is clearly designed to pay back all the special interest groups that the Democratic politicians feel the need to reward.  As for any of the much-needed tax cuts later added to the bill, Pelosi really exposes her agenda.   From The Politico:    "The new Senate (tax)cuts, if passed, will do violence to the future,” said Pelosi, who is also pressing a reluctant Obama to repeal Bush administration tax cuts for the wealthy before they expire at the end of 2010.  Well, Mrs. Pelosi, isn't it much more dangerous to the country to continue to spend money we do not have?  In doing so, we will burden generations to come with the responsibility of paying back this debt for decades to come.  And just how to do that?  Why, in the form of higher and higher taxes, of course!  In the Pelosi/Reid world:   tax cuts = bad,  spending = good.

  Even though the bill itself has Pelosi's name written all over it, who has to sell it to the public and other government officials?  Barack Obama.  Barack Obama, neophyte to Washing on D.C., is being led around by Nancy Pelosi and Harry Reid, no doubt about it.  He is a mere puppet. 

Obama's recent news conference in which he tried to sell the economic stimulus package to the people really fell flat.  Obama mentioned how he inherited the economic crisis from the previous administration.  True up to a point.  But then is the best solution to draft a bill which even SPENDS more and INCREASES debt even more?  Where is the logic in that?  Or do the Democrats feel they are now "owed" the right to spend even more than Bush did?  How will that accomplish anything?  Yet, that is clearly the mindset of Pelosi & Co. - and it is becoming the mindset of President Obama.  (Personally, I feel this bill should be scraped.  It is better to do nothing than allow this piece of dangerous and damaging legislation to pass.)

And it's no wonder that Pelosi and Reid did not want to see Hillary Clinton in the White House.  They knew she was too smart and experienced to become a Pelosi/Reid robot.  They wanted a person they could control and manipulate.  A clueless, inexperienced empty suit.  And they got one in Obama.  Obama's headed for a disastrous start to his presidency if he sets America on the road to socialism.  Obama's best bet to run the country is....to run the country!...as the more moderate liberal he pretended to be in order to get elected in the first place!   He could start by ignoring Pelosi and Reid.  

In the area of National Security, Obama must understand that our enemies are not misunderstood.  They are dangerous.  There is a reason they are dangerous.  He has to stop softening the rhetoric when it comes to terrorism.  He has to stop trying to undo much of what Bush has put in place to protect us.  He has to listen to his Secretary of Defense - Robert Gates.   

Obama has to leave his campaigning strategies behind - and instead learn how to lead.  It's obvious that running a campaign is much different than leading a country, and Obama is having a hard time adjusting to the change.  In the rush to get things done, Obama is signing legislation that makes no sense.  One such example is his desire to close Guantanamo.  He signed an executive order saying Club Gitmo should be shut down within a year.  Sounds all nice and wonderful (for lefties who have the warm and fuzzies towards terrorists), yet no thought has been given as to just where all these dangerous terrorist prisoners will go.  That one detail is very important.  Why sign something when you don't have  a workable solution?  It's like saying you're going to end world hunger.  Sign an executive order stating such, but it is meaningless if you don't have the solution to do it.  Empty platitudes.

Is it "Amature Hour at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue?"   Are Nancy Pelosi and Harry Reid pulling the strings on a ventriloquist dummy? And Nancy is no rocket scientist herself.  She recently stated that "five million Americans were losing their jobs every month."  When corrected (she had to be told the number was 500,000 jobs lost per month), a few days later, Pelosi said exactly the same thing - five million jobs being lost every month.  (Maybe all her botox injections have gone to her brain?)  

So, who did the American people vote for as our President?  Obama or Pelosi?  Looks like we have another set of "Co-Presidents."  For four long years.

Hillary Clinton must be seething.   

With the election of ultra-liberal Barack Obama as President of the United States, it appears that many lefties are getting their wish.  America as we know it may "change" - into France.  At least according to the latest edition of Newsweek magazine (available Monday, February 9, 2009), which proclaims that "We are all socialists now.": 

(Does anyone know of any examples where socialism actually works?  Please fill me in.)

By the way, I disagree with this cover and story.  The media, Democrats, ultra-liberals, and the Obama Administration may like this idea - but I believe that many Americans don't.  And weren't we warned that if Barack Obama was elected President, we'd be heading towards socialism?  Looks like Newsweek agrees with that prediction. 

America was built by free enterprise.  America did not always look to the government for every solution for every problem. Yet, we are now being told that big government is indeed the solution!   An earlier post of mine mentioned the following excerpt from the Los Angeles Times/Peter Nichols (1/8/09),: 

 "Ronald Reagan in 1980 began the new conservative era in America. And 2008 is 1980 in reverse," said Allan Lichtman, an expert on the presidency at American University in Washington.

"Reagan famously said government is not the solution, it's the problem," Lichtman said. "Obama is saying government is the solution and, in fact, the only real solution to the crisis we're experiencing today. It's not just a matter of fixing the economy. It's a matter of fundamentally moving the economy in a new direction. And government, not private enterprise, has to take the lead."  

America is heading in the wrong direction, with Obama, Pelosi, and Reid leading the way.  Four years cannot go by quickly enough...   

With all this talk about passing the Economic Stimulus Bill (aka "The Generational Theft Act" or "The Porkulus Bill") as soon as possible to salvage our economy, we need to put the brakes on.  Take a step back and stop the madness!  The answer to our economic woes has been right in front of us all along. 

The solution is so simple.   

President Barack Obama just needs to continue to nominate high-rolling Democratic politicians to key cabinet positions.  After being asked a few questions, the facts come out that these nominees didn't pay their taxes like good, patriotic Americans!   The IRS can then collect on these tax cheaters and that in turn will help to stimulate our economy!  Heard there are still many openings left in Obama's cabinet - meaning more money to collect!  Hey, this could work...

Tim Geithner (Obama's choice for Treasury Secretary):  found to owe at least $40,000.00

Tom Daschle (Obama's nominee for Health Secretary):  owes over $130,000.00

Nancy Killefer( Obama's nominee for Chief Performance Expert (???) for the Office of Management and Budget):  owes $946.00

Hilda Solis  (Obama's nominee for Labor Secretary):  husband owes $7,630.00

Not an Obama nominee, but a potential U.S. Senator:  Al Franken:  owes over $70,000.00 to several different states.

Wonder how many more Democratic politicians - both former and current - owe back taxes?  Unless they get nominated for cabinet positions, we'll never know!!!  And they'll get away without paying.  All of the people mentioned above didn't go out of their way to do their patriotic duty (according to Joe Biden) and write a check to the IRS. They only paid up AFTER they got caught!    Funny how that works. 

So all President Obama needs to do is to keep those Democratic nominations coming....and the IRS will see those dollars roll in!  

Economic problems - solved! 

The United States Senate is currently debating President Obama's proposed trillion dollar economic stimulus package.  This bill has been dubbed "The Generational Theft Act" by conservative blogger Michelle Malkin, which is a much more accurate description of this pork-laden, wasteful spending bill. 

Since when has it ever been a good idea to spend even MORE money when one is deeply in debt?  Yet, that is what Obama & Co. are proposing.  Money doesn't come from thin air.  Taxpaying Americans will be paying for this terrible legislation for decades if it is approved by the Senate.  Barack Obama and his fellow Democrats are taking advantage of the poor economy to force this bill upon us.  In reality, this economic stimulus package will do very little, if anything, to actually stimulate our economy.  This bill is simply a "wish list" to fulfill every Democratic dream.  Useless social programs, grants, and policies run amok.  It's a giant pile of crap, to put it bluntly! 

To stop the trillion-dollar Economic Stimulus Bill (aka  "Generational Theft Act"), please contact our Senators at: 

Senator Herb Kohl:  Milwaukee:  414-297-4451,   Washington D.C.:  202-224-5653

Senator Russ Feingold:  Milwaukee:  414-276-7282,  Washington D.C.:  202-224-5323

While you are at it, you may wish to give Congressman Jim Sensenbrenner a call to say "thank you."  Not only has Sensenbrenner continued to speak out against the economic stimulus bill, but he has offered a very reasonable solution to our current economic woes.  Sensenbrenner has suggested that the federal government waive the collection of all income taxes for one year.  From our own Lake Country Reporter (2/5/09), Sensenbrenner had this to say:  "Waiving income taxes would cost about a trillion dollars, which is about what the stimulus package and supplement appropriations would cost."  He goes on to say "if the federal income tax were suspended for a year, consumers would spend the money they would normally pay in taxes.  Consumer spending would increase retail demand, which in turn would increase production and jobs." 

Unfortunately, Congressman Sensenbrenner's suggestion is probably too logical for the Dems and liberals in Washington, D.C. to understand.

You can reach Congressman Jim Sensenbrenner at:  Brookfield:  262-225-5101,  Washington D.C.: 202-225-5101

(Phone calls tend to get more attention than e-mails, so please be sure to contact your representatives directly on the phone!)

A few days ago, President Barack Obama, obviously new to his surroundings, attempted to get into the White House Oval Office via a window.  He did not realize there was a door right next to him.  (Some are saying he veered "too far left!").  No big deal, and it shouldn't be.  However, when it comes to demonstrating media bias, this little mistake is a very good learning tool.

Anyone see this picture on the nightly news?  In the newspapers?  Anywhere?  Anyone read about it?  Did we hear about it for days on end?    NO.

Yet, remember a few years ago when President Bush walked to an actual door (in China) and attempted to open it, only to find it locked?

  The mainstream media had a field day with that one.  The picture you see above ran in many newspapers across the country.  I'd venture to say that many people DO remember this incident - because it was NEWS!!!  Bush looked like a fool - so the media took it and ran with it.  Look at how stupid Bush is - ha ha ha!!!   

If President Bush's blunder was such big news in 2005,  shouldn't President Obama's error be news, too?  (And at least Bush's door had handles!). 

Either there is real bias in the news, or President Obama just does not make mistakes! 

As a few of you may know by now, livinglakecountry.com has welcomed another blogger to the site.  Jacob Pickard (yes, another Pickard - brother of MC) recently joined the ranks of bloggers.  Originally, I had questioned the powers that be in allowing Jacob to blog.  (Jacob had previously made many comments to the livinglakecountry.com website using the moniker "LiberalHammer.")    Given that the livinglakecountry.com website advertises itself as  "Lake Country residents share their views on news, happenings, and current events," and "frequent blogs from your community", I questioned Pickard's selection - because he lives in Milwaukee.  He does not reside in Lake Country, nor Waukesha County.  I also wondered why in the world livinglakecountry.com needs yet another liberal blogger, since the scales already seem to be tipped extremely far in the direction of the left. 

Anyhow, suffice it to say the powers that be have spoken and said that Mr. Pickard is good to go.  No problem with his residency. I have accepted this decision. 

As for Mr. Pickards' politics, fellow blogger Al Neuhauser put it nicely:

 "Be of good cheer, Amy. If they have to import outsiders to bolster their weak arguments, I think that merely demonstrates their intellectual immaturity and inferiority. We'll continue to produce the good stuff while they voluminously regurgitate the liberal party line. Let them have their outlander. Nothing added to nothing remains nothing."

So, welcome Jacob!  Or should I say "MC squared?"  Between the two Pickards who seem to churn out blogs at the rate that our government spends money, we'll have lots of the usual leftie talking points to read (if one does indeed tune it to their sites).  And if you really want a good laugh, notice how the two brothers frequently comment on each others blogs - they seem to be their own best audience.

In moving on, I will be "of good cheer" as Al suggests.  In our livinglakecountry.com blog world, the more the merrier!

With the recent election of Michael Steele to head the Republican National Committee,  seems that conservatives and Republicans throughout America have good reason to be optimistic for the coming years - especially 2010 and 2012!  Let's work on getting those RINOS's (Republicans in name only) out of office.  True conservatives and Republicans need to be voted in.  Government growth AND taxes need to be reduced.  National security needs to be strengthened, not slashed.  American needs to drill on its own land for its own oil.  Much work needs to be done, and it appears that many things currently occurring in Washington D.C. will need to be "undone." 

True conservative leadership is sorely needed right now, as we watch our country veer sharply to the left.  Will we ever recover if Obama's  "trillion dollar economic stimulus bill"  (aka "The Generational Theft Act") is passed?  YES WE CAN!  But we need HOPE that Republicans can get their act together and CHANGE things in Washington, D.C. and America!

From the looks of the recent 2008 presidential election map, all is not lost.  Far from it!