Gallup Poll: Tea Party Support Dwindles to Near-Record Low

It’s going to get even lower when they shut down the government
US News • Views: 20,389
Near Record Low for Tea Party Bozos

Of course the Tea Party doesn’t give a shit, because that small quarter of the country that elected them last time will re elect them in their gerrymandered districts.

As Washington braces for another budget showdown, this time with the threat of defunding the new healthcare law in the mix, the key political force pushing for conservative policies sees diminished popular support. Fewer Americans now describe themselves as supporters of the Tea Party movement than did at the height of the movement in 2010, or even at the start of 2012. Today’s 22% support nearly matches the record low found two years ago.

In November 2010, days after the Republicans recaptured the majority in the House of Representatives, 32% of Americans pledged support for the Tea Party, or 10 percentage points higher than in the latest survey, conducted Sept. 5-8.

Opponents of the Tea Party now outnumber supporters 27% to 22%, which is similar to their edge in 2012. However this differs from most of Gallup’s earlier measurements, in 2010 and 2011, when supporters and opponents were either equally matched, or Tea Party backers had the slight edge.

Fully half of Americans, 51%, currently say they are neither a supporter nor an opponent of the Tea Party, or they have no opinion about it.

More: Tea Party Support Dwindles to Near-Record Low

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153 comments
1 Justanotherhuman  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 4:47:06pm

People ought to pay more attention to begin with, and we might not be in this fucking mess.

It worries me that “51% currently say they are neither a supporter nor an opponent of the Tea Party, or they have no opinion about it”.

Apathy, how does that work?

2 The Ghost of a Flea  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 4:47:57pm

Yes, but how many of the people polled are Real Americans?

3 Iwouldprefernotto  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 4:48:09pm

The polls are skewed.

4 Skip Intro  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 4:49:09pm

So 22% of the country is completely insane.

Wonderful.

5 EPR-radar  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 4:50:06pm

re: #4 Skip Intro

So 22% of the country is completely insane.

Wonderful.

And half the country doesn’t care (or can’t tell) the difference between sane and insane.

6 dog philosopher  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 4:52:40pm

re: #1 Justanotherhuman

People ought to pay more attention to begin with, and we might not be in this fucking mess.

It worries me that “51% currently say they are neither a supporter nor an opponent of the Tea Party, or they have no opinion about it”.

Apathy, how does that work?

i don’t know and i don’t care

//

7 Skip Intro  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 4:54:00pm

re: #5 EPR-radar

And half the country doesn’t care (or can’t tell) the difference between sane and insane.

Yeah. 72% of the country is insane or doesn’t care. That’s even worse.

8 dog philosopher  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 4:55:49pm

re: #4 Skip Intro

So 22% of the country is completely insane.

Wonderful.

that should come out to at least 44 million given an electorate of more than 200 million

9 SnowdenBaggerVance  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 4:56:31pm

If you wanna hang out you’ve got to take her out; Kochaine.
If you wanna get down, down on the ground; Kochaine.
She don’t lie, she don’t lie, she don’t lie; cocaine.

If you got bad news, you wanna kick them blues; Kochaine.
When your day is done and you wanna run; Kochaine.
She don’t lie, she don’t lie, she don’t lie; Kochaine.

If your thing is gone and you wanna ride on; Kochaine.
Don’t forget this fact, you can’t get it back; Kochaine.
She don’t lie, she don’t lie, she don’t lie; Kochaine.

She don’t lie, she don’t lie, she don’t lie; Kochaine.

10 SnowdenBaggerVance  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 4:59:19pm

Fellow Republicans skip encore of Cruz-Lee show

WASHINGTON (AP) — Some tried yelling. Others tried shaming. But by the time tea party freshmen Sens. Ted Cruz and Mike Lee spoke on the chamber floor again Friday, other Republican senators had settled on ignoring them.

Zero GOP senators showed up to support the pair’s encore to Cruz’s 21-hour filibuster — a 30-minute appeal to prohibit the Senate from voting on whether to defund President Barack Obama’s health care law and keep the government open. Only one Democrat attended, Sen. Jack Reed of Rhode Island, to make sure there wasn’t any procedural funny business from the newcomers whose orations had become a tea party infomercial.

Only 17 of the GOP’s other 44 senators joined Cruz and Lee in trying to stop the Senate. Later, Senate Democrats used their majority to strip the “Obamacare” language from a temporary spending bill, pass a new version of it and send it to the Republican-controlled House.

Thus ended another episode of congressional reality TV, a narrative in which breakout stars Cruz and Lee claimed to represent regular Americans standing up to the political establishment.

The real reality: Their performance was evidence of a fierce battle for control of the Republican Party, and one with high stakes. If Congress doesn’t agree on a budget by midnight Monday, the government shuts down. That could mean terrible consequences for millions of Americans and the economy.

WE ARE TEH 22% WHO BLOG IN ALL CAPSES

11 dog philosopher  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 5:07:13pm

Is Obamacare the bogeyman of small business hiring?

a somewhat more fact based approach

12 Varek Raith  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 5:10:07pm

Go Michael J Fox!

13 Bubblehead II  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 5:14:48pm

Frank’s wrong.

Frank says:

Stupidity has a certain charm — ignorance does not.

Followed by.

Bubblehead II says:

Ignorance can be cured though education, Stupidity is generally fatal.

Hint, Hint. Republicans/DF

14 darthstar  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 5:20:51pm

Teabaggers be saggin’

15 compound_Idaho  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 5:23:03pm

re: #11 dog philosopher

I can’t find out how it will affect me or my employees until Tuesday when the exchange opens. News reports today tell us one more insurer has pulled out of the Idaho exchange. We are down to 4 participating in the exchange down from 18 offering small group and individual policies in Idaho.

16 Lidane  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 5:24:02pm
17 blueraven  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 5:24:32pm

Speaking of crazy…the TPGOP talking point today about congress being exempt from Obamacare is so ridiuculous.

First of all it was a special provision offered by Grassley to force Congress and staffers into the exchanges. The dems said, OK, sure. No other private company, agency or corporation is forced to do this as written in the ACA.

So as this was a special provision written in to appease Grassley and TPers, it had special issues…

So now the republicans are acting all outraged about this. Signs of pure desperation.

Congress faces a specific Obamacare provision forcing lawmakers from their current plans into new marketplaces — something that doesn’t apply to other Americans.

(Most people with health care through large employers won’t see significant changes under the law. They’re not required to use the marketplaces, which were designed to offer more options for small businesses and the uninsured.)

Back in 2009, Republican Sen. Chuck Grassley argued that “members of Congress should get the same coverage that we are coming up with for everyone else.” He offered an amendment that required lawmakers to get their health care through the marketplaces created by the bill. It was accepted by the Senate Finance Committee without objection.

Members of Congress and their staff would have to use the hefty employer contribution they used for federal plans to buy marketplace plans, instead, his amendment said.

“My interest in having members of Congress participate in the exchange is consistent with my long-held view that Congress should live under the same laws it passes for the rest of the country,” Grassley said. “The more that Congress experiences the laws it passes, the better.”

Sen. Ted Cruz says Obama ‘just granted all of Congress an exception’ to Obamacare…False, says Politifact

18 klys  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 5:25:57pm

Things I miss in CA: good, deli-style dill pickles.

19 Bubblehead II  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 5:29:07pm

re: #14 darthstar

Teabaggers be saggin’

Wonder how long they will have their support after they crash the economy?

20 klys  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 5:29:15pm

re: #15 compound_Idaho

I can’t find out how it will affect me or my employees until Tuesday when the exchange opens. News reports today tell us one more insurer has pulled out of the Idaho exchange. We are down to 4 participating in the exchange down from 18 offering small group and individual policies in Idaho.

I’ll give you props for at least being willing to look at health insurance for your employees. Too many people aren’t.

I wish the Republicans weren’t dragging their feet to make implementation worse instead of stepping forward and trying to make constructive improvements.

21 Amory Blaine  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 5:29:17pm

In a couple years you wont be able to find any one who will admit being a tea bagger. Like Bush voters. ;)

22 Kragar  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 5:29:25pm

re: #18 klys

Things I miss in CA: good, deli-style dill pickles.

I’ve got a good Jewish deli about a mile from me which has great pickles.

23 klys  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 5:29:48pm

re: #22 Kragar

I’ve got a good Jewish deli about a mile from me which has great pickles.

…I don’t like you. :(

24 klys  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 5:30:43pm

re: #18 klys

Things I miss in CA: good, deli-style dill pickles.

Also, real pizza. NY style.

You Chicago people are all deluded.

25 Amory Blaine  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 5:31:36pm

Best Jewish Deli in town

27 psddluva4evah  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 5:33:17pm

I tell ya what, the Obama new media crew dont’ play no games on twitter. Plouffe holds it down for the olde crew and the new crew be swiping people left and right…case in point:

28 Kragar  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 5:33:47pm

re: #23 klys

…I don’t like you. :(

They’ve got a restaurant section which keeps a jar of pickles on each table, complimentary.

29 klys  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 5:34:38pm

re: #28 Kragar

They’ve got a restaurant section which keeps a jar of pickles on each table, complimentary.

You couldn’t have told me this in June/July when I was down in San Diego??

30 compound_Idaho  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 5:35:55pm

re: #19 Bubblehead II

Wonder how long they will have their support after they crash the economy?

Fortunately my employees are young (well less young that we used to be) and healthy. The nature of the work requires that you are in good physical condition. I’m getting pretty old for this kind of thing.

I have long hung my hat on healthy eating and lots of exercise. It has served me well. However, that will not stop me getting run over by a truck and ending up in the hospital. $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$

31 Kragar  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 5:38:27pm

re: #29 klys

You couldn’t have told me this in June/July when I was down in San Diego??

You didn’t ask.

32 klys  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 5:39:02pm

re: #31 Kragar

You didn’t ask.

Fair enough. I’m just going to go sulk in my corner now.

33 Lidane  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 5:39:11pm

re: #17 blueraven

Sen. Ted Cruz says Obama ‘just granted all of Congress an exception’ to Obamacare…False, says Politifact

So if I understand this correctly, instead of Congress being able to opt out of Obamacare, they’re forced to use it when no one else is. And somehow, the GOP have turned this into a talking point where Congress gets to avoid Obamacare.

Seems legit.

34 The Ghost of a Flea  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 5:40:23pm

re: #26 Kragar

Satan?

I think he means God. In the INERRANT BIBLE of wingnuttia, God is the one who sets the End Times in motion.

It’s not Satan prying seals off things, or sounding trumpets.

(also, something, something, John’s Apocalypse was some kind of extended metaphor)

35 klys  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 5:41:28pm

re: #33 Lidane

So if I understand this correctly, instead of Congress being able to opt out of Obamacare, they’re forced to use it when no one else is. And somehow, the GOP have turned this into a talking point where Congress gets to avoid Obamacare.

Seems legit.

It meets all the criteria for a GOP talking point!

36 Kragar  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 5:41:36pm

re: #34 The Ghost of a Flea

Satan?

I think he means God. In the INERRANT BIBLE of wingnuttia, God is the one who sets the End Times in motion.

(also, something, something, John’s Apocalypse was some kind of extended metaphor)

Fischer talking to anyone about counterfeit Christianity is high hilarity.

37 Lidane  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 5:42:31pm

My surprise, etc. —

38 The Ghost of a Flea  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 5:42:46pm

re: #36 Kragar

Fischer talking to anyone about counterfeit Christianity is high hilarity.

My standing theory is that his Bible is actually an R E Howard Conan novel.

And not of the good ones. Ones of the racist/sexist freak-flag-flying ones.

39 blueraven  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 5:44:23pm

re: #33 Lidane

So if I understand this correctly, instead of Congress being able to opt out of Obamacare, they’re forced to use it when no one else is. And somehow, the GOP have turned this into a talking point where Congress gets to avoid Obamacare.

Seems legit.

Yep, that’s about it.

40 dog philosopher  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 5:45:24pm

re: #18 klys

Things I miss in CA: good, deli-style dill pickles.

you can get bubbie’s pickles at the way of the safe

41 Dr Lizardo  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 5:45:49pm

re: #38 The Ghost of a Flea

My standing theory is that his Bible is actually an R E Howard Conan novel.

And not of the good ones. Ones of the racist/sexist freak-flag-flying ones.

My theory is that Fischer has apparently mistaken the Gor series of novels by John Norman as the Bible.

I guess that can happen.

*facepalm*

42 The Ghost of a Flea  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 5:46:57pm

re: #41 Dr Lizardo

My theory is that Fischer has apparently mistaken the Gor series of novels by John Norman as the Bible.

I guess that can happen.

*facepalm*

Shit.

And there goes my months of repressing memory of the existence of the Gor novels.

43 freetoken  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 5:48:19pm

Given that the “tea party” is just a cynically manipulated (by wealthy power brokers) grouping of old people who don’t like change and are harboring resentment and hatred toward people who are different, I think the rest of America has just gotten tired of the theatre.

44 Dr Lizardo  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 5:49:33pm

re: #42 The Ghost of a Flea

Well, you’re quite welcome.

:p

45 Kragar  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 5:50:00pm

re: #42 The Ghost of a Flea

Shit.

And there goes my months of repressing memory of the existence of the Gor novels.

Allow me to at least make it better.

MST3k presents OUTLAW OF GOR!

Youtube Video

46 The Ghost of a Flea  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 5:50:18pm

re: #44 Dr Lizardo

Well, you’re quite welcome.

:p

You’ll be receiving a bill from my therapist.

47 freetoken  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 5:51:25pm

Working on a short bio of one of my 2nd great grandfathers, so much has changed in the 167 years since he was born. He joined the calvary, with his own horse, in the War of the Rebellion (on the winning side.)

All these tea partiers hampering for the good ol’ days - I wonder how many of them could even mount a horse, much less which side they would have joined in the War.

48 Mike Lamb  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 5:52:39pm

re: #4 Skip Intro

So 22% of the country is completely insane.

Wonderful.

We’re down from 27%….progress!

49 Kragar  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 5:53:54pm

re: #47 freetoken

Working on a short bio of one of my 2nd great grandfathers, so much has changed in the 167 years since he was born. He joined the calvary, with his own horse, in the War of the Rebellion (on the winning side.)

All these tea partiers hampering for the good ol’ days - I wonder how many of them could even mount a horse, much less which side they would have joined in the War.

Want to have some fun?

Ask a Tea bagger what should be done if a bunch of fanatics attacked an Army base and declared they were forming their own country inside the US.

50 Dr Lizardo  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 5:54:12pm

re: #46 The Ghost of a Flea

You’ll be receiving a bill from my therapist.

Heh. I read, I think it was ‘Tarnsman of Gor’, and I was distinctly unimpressed.

interestingly, I know a couple of real-life Gorean girls up in the Northwest; kajirae. They were extolling the “virtues” of the Gorean lifestyle, to which I simply responded, “Oh….so you’re into BDSM. Whatever floats your boat.”

*double facepalm*

51 Cheechako  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 5:54:37pm

re: #30 compound_Idaho

Fortunately my employees are young (well less young that we used to be) and healthy. The nature of the work requires that you are in good physical condition. I’m getting pretty old for this kind of thing.

I have long hung my hat on healthy eating and lots of exercise. It has served me well. However, that will not stop me getting run over by a truck and ending up in the hospital. $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$

Got a question. Many commentators discussing Obamacare use being injured in a motor vehicle accident as a reason so many people will need Qbamacare to cover their hugh medical expenses. Wouldn’t the motor vehicle insurance policy pay for these expenses? Would Obamacare be the secondary payee? Yes, I realize there are far too many uninsured motorists on the road, so in some cases Obamacare will needed to cover the large costs.

Just seems many people have forgotten that they have automobile insurance whereas they don’t have health insurance.

52 Single-handed sailor  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 5:56:56pm

re: #48 Mike Lamb

We’re down from 27%….progress!

Nah, the missing 5% are the people that think the tea party is too liberal.

53 Kragar  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 5:58:26pm

re: #52 Single-handed sailor

Nah, the missing 5% are the people that think the tea party is too liberal.

Oh, Larry Klayman.

54 klys  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 5:59:26pm

re: #40 dog philosopher

you can get bubbie’s pickles at the way of the safe

I got them today.

They are almost *but not quite* there.

55 Skip Intro  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 5:59:40pm

re: #52 Single-handed sailor

You’re probably right.

I think the 22% number is absolute base of the TP. It won’t go lower unless they join that 5% because Ted Cruz says something sane, thus becoming a RINO.

56 compound_Idaho  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 5:59:48pm

re: #51 Cheechako

Got a question. Many commentators discussing Obamacare use being injured in a motor vehicle accident as a reason so many people will need Qbamacare to cover their hugh medical expenses. Wouldn’t the motor vehicle insurance policy pay for these expenses? Would Obamacare be the secondary payee? Yes, I realize there are far too many uninsured motorists on the road, so in some cases Obamacare will needed to cover the large costs.

Just seems many people have forgotten that they have automobile insurance whereas they don’t have health insurance.

Only if the truck driver has adequate insurance. My neighbor’s daughter just got hit by a driver with no insurance. Guess who is on the hook for the bills. (unless you pay for uninsured/underinsured)

57 William Barnett-Lewis  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:00:27pm

re: #49 Kragar

Want to have some fun?

Ask a Tea bagger what should be done if a bunch of fanatics attacked an Army base and declared they were forming their own country inside the US.

Of course, there’s always the bunch of fanatics that attempted to attack an arsenal in order to arm a prisoner revolt … ;)

58 The Ghost of a Flea  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:01:13pm

re: #49 Kragar

Want to have some fun?

Ask a Tea bagger what should be done if a bunch of fanatics attacked an Army base and declared they were forming their own country inside the US.

Eh, Kobayashi Maru thought experiments only work on people that have operational logic to start with. Tea Partiers would just Kirk the thing and have the half the military be “real patriots” and support the secession.

59 William Barnett-Lewis  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:01:31pm

re: #51 Cheechako

Don’t forget that many of them only have car insurance because, wait for it … , it’s a government mandate :D

60 Feline Fearless Leader  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:02:08pm

re: #51 Cheechako

Got a question. Many commentators discussing Obamacare use being injured in a motor vehicle accident as a reason so many people will need Qbamacare to cover their hugh medical expenses. Wouldn’t the motor vehicle insurance policy pay for these expenses? Would Obamacare be the secondary payee? Yes, I realize there are far too many uninsured motorists on the road, so in some cases Obamacare will needed to cover the large costs.

Just seems many people have forgotten that they have automobile insurance whereas they don’t have health insurance.

Simple example of how an accident can take out even a young and completely healthy person. Instead of a vehicle, how about slipping on a slick or icy surface? No vehicle involved. At which point it possibly falls into who owns the property and potential liability - but what do you do while those claims are being worked out? Or if it’s your property?

61 klys  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:02:27pm

re: #59 William Barnett-Lewis

Don’t forget that many of them only have car insurance because, wait for it … , it’s a government mandate :D

COMMUNIST LIES!

I don’t need no stinking auto insurance because I’m a great driver and never have accidents.

////

62 Decatur Deb  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:02:53pm

re: #57 William Barnett-Lewis

Of course, there’s always the bunch of fanatics that attempted to attack an arsenal in order to arm a prisoner revolt … ;)

Mostly they lay a’mouldering somewhere.

63 Skip Intro  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:03:14pm

re: #51 Cheechako

There are so many ways to injure yourself without even leaving your house.

You could fall off a ladder, hit your hand with a hammer, slip on a wet floor while getting out of the shower, or the new rising star of accidents, shoot yourself in the nuts with your unloaded gun.

64 Kragar  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:03:53pm

Everyone knows that a volunteer military made up of citizens from all 50 states, plus foreigners seeking US citizenship, would automatically support the Tea Party in the event of Civil War.
///

65 klys  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:04:53pm

Scarf in progress! To be compared to the finished scarf.

Sharp-eyed Lizards will notice a) the lecture on the computer screen and b) my art-glass paperweight collection (I made the larger blue swirl one).

66 teleskiguy  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:05:16pm

This evening I noticed Drudge Report links to The Guardian and infowars.com right next to each other.

67 Decatur Deb  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:05:24pm

re: #55 Skip Intro

You’re probably right.

I think the 22% number is absolute base of the TP. It won’t go lower unless they join that 5% because Ted Cruz says something sane, thus becoming a RINO.

27% seems to be absolute crazy—Krazy Kelvin. Part of that is always made up of crazies from our side, though the mix alters through different administrations.

68 Skip Intro  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:06:53pm

re: #64 Kragar

Wasn’t today the day the Alabama Supreme Court was supposed to rule that Obama didn’t qualify to be on the Alabama ballot in 2012, thereby stripping him of all the Alabama EVs he won and turn the election over to Romney.

At least that’s the way I heard it on the birther sites.

69 goddamnedfrank  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:07:33pm

re: #56 compound_Idaho

Only if the truck driver has adequate insurance. My neighbor’s daughter just got hit by a driver with no insurance. Guess who is on the hook for the bills. (unless you pay for uninsured/underinsured)

It’s very easy to discharge medical debt through bankruptcy, leaving society on the hook for the bills through increased medical costs passed on to everyone.

70 dog philosopher  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:08:12pm

re: #67 Decatur Deb

27% seems to be absolute crazy—Krazy Kelvin. Part of that is always made up of crazies from our side, though the mix alters through different administrations.

makes me wonder what happened to the 5% of the 27% that apparently don’t support the teabag party?

71 Skip Intro  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:08:28pm

re: #67 Decatur Deb

27% seems to be absolute crazy—Krazy Kelvin.

Very good. I’m glad I didn’t have anything in my mouth when I read that.

72 klys  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:08:40pm

re: #69 goddamnedfrank

It’s very easy to discharge medical debt through bankruptcy, leaving society on the hook for the bills through increased medical costs passed on to everyone.

But not student loans, because apparently somehow the benefits of medical care evaporate if you file for bankruptcy but not the benefits from student loans.

Or something.

73 Decatur Deb  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:09:15pm

re: #70 dog philosopher

makes me wonder what happened to the 5% of the 27% that apparently don’t support the teabag party?

They’re dead, Jim.

74 dog philosopher  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:10:34pm

re: #73 Decatur Deb

They’re dead, Jim.

well they’re definitely not the beautiful alien women off getting seduced by captain kirk

75 Skip Intro  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:11:06pm

re: #72 klys

But not student loans, because apparently somehow the benefits of medical care evaporate if you file for bankruptcy but not the benefits from student loans.

Or something.

Everybody knows you’re just taking out loans to stay in school to dodge the draft.

No wait, I’m sorry. That was my generation.

Never mind.

76 The Ghost of a Flea  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:12:18pm

re: #70 dog philosopher

makes me wonder what happened to the 5% of the 27% that apparently don’t support the teabag party?

Tinfoil hats don’t fold themselves.

Somebody’s got to sacrifice to get it done.

77 goddamnedfrank  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:12:49pm

re: #72 klys

But not student loans, because apparently somehow the benefits of medical care evaporate if you file for bankruptcy but not the benefits from student loans.

Or something.

Doesn’t really makes sense does it, you can’t repossess a diploma or a kidney. Repo Men was a good concept for a movie, but the execution sucked.

Speaking of which, I paid off my last student loan this week. Man that feels nice.

78 compound_Idaho  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:13:34pm

re: #69 goddamnedfrank

It’s very easy to discharge medical debt through bankruptcy, leaving society on the hook for the bills through increased medical costs passed on to everyone.

After all your assets are wiped out. In Idaho, you can only be left with minimal equity in your residence and a car. Not a good plan.

79 urbanmeemaw  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:13:44pm

re: #5 EPR-radar

We can thank our wonderful ever equivocating mainslime media for some of that.

80 klys  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:13:53pm

re: #77 goddamnedfrank

Doesn’t really makes sense does it, you can’t repossess a diploma or a kidney. Repo Men was a good concept for a movie, but the execution sucked.

Speaking of which, I paid off my last student loan this week. Man that feels nice.

That I have no student loans is amazing …and totally not typical.

If medical debts can be forgiven, I think student loans should be as well. It’s bullshit that they’re not.

Congratulations on being done!

81 Decatur Deb  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:14:56pm

Back from the Baja Alabama Porktoberque oom-pah fest. I was the only sad fucker that stood and placed hand on heart when they played the “Pennsylvania Polka”.

82 klys  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:15:12pm

re: #78 compound_Idaho

After all your assets are wiped out. In Idaho, you can only be left with minimal equity in your residence and a car. Not a good plan.

I don’t think the argument was that bankruptcy is a good plan. Just that society does bear the burden of the cost in those cases - and the number one cause of bankruptcy in this country is medical issues.*

* This is going off memory, I’m not looking it up right now. If I’m wrong, I’m sorry.

83 blueraven  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:15:25pm

re: #35 klys

It meets all the criteria for a GOP talking point!

Here are some other sites so that when you encounter the “Congress is exempt from Obamacare” nonsense, you can push back

False says CNN

politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com

False say FactCheck

factcheck.org

84 Lidane  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:17:26pm
85 klys  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:18:10pm

re: #84 Lidane

The amazing part is someone made two baby platypus sized fedoras.

By hand.

86 Kragar  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:21:08pm

re: #85 klys

The amazing part is someone made two baby platypus sized fedoras.

By hand.

…I’m not quite sure.

TO THE PIXELS!

87 jaunte  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:22:17pm

Those Platypus have no globular clusters!

88 Cheechako  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:22:21pm

re: #56 compound_Idaho

re: #59 William Barnett-Lewis

re: #63 Skip Intro

I was trying to make the point that in many cases people have multiple layers of insurance already available, i.e vehicle insurance, homeowners insurance, business insurance, and even workman’s comp. And now Obamacare. Obamacare will fill the gap for health issues that the other specific types of insurance do not cover.

And I agree there are too many uninsured/under-insured vehicles on the road today. That’s a lack of State enforcement of the insurance laws.

89 SnowdenBaggerVance  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:23:12pm

re: #86 Kragar

…I’m not quite sure.

TO THE PIXELS!

Photoshop. Look at the shadowses.

DEBUNKED! WTF I win?

90 klys  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:26:08pm

re: #89 SnowdenBaggerVance

Photoshop. Look at the shadowses.

DEBUNKED! WTF I win?

…the joy of ruining my happy place?

91 compound_Idaho  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:26:15pm

re: #82 klys

I don’t think the argument was that bankruptcy is a good plan. Just that society does bear the burden of the cost in those cases - and the number one cause of bankruptcy in this country is medical issues.*

* This is going off memory, I’m not looking it up right now. If I’m wrong, I’m sorry.

Maybe the government should back/offer low interest loans to pay off medical bills.

PS I don;t want to get into a debate with someone that likes winter. You are obviously nuts.

92 SnowdenBaggerVance  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:27:01pm

BOOM says Destroyer of Happy Places!

93 klys  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:28:38pm

re: #91 compound_Idaho

Maybe the government should back/offer low interest loans to pay off medical bills.

PS I don;t want to get into a debate with someone that likes winter. You are obviously nuts.

It’s ok, I’ll take my nuts that says everyone should have the ability to get medical coverage as needed. I mean, I don’t like the ACA much either - but that’s because I want single payer. I’ll take this as an acceptable stepping stone.

94 goddamnedfrank  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:32:36pm

re: #91 compound_Idaho

Maybe the government should back/offer low interest loans to pay off medical bills.

That’s just single payer by another name, and without the government negotiating directly with the provider to lower prices. When the government absorbs losses through debtor insolvency and death the costs just get passed on again to the tax payer. The tax payer is also paying for the low interest subsidy. Why not just do it directly and implement single payer?

The reason the individual mandate started out as a Republican idea is that single payer was seen as socialistic and therefore evil. Not fighting for single payer was the Obama administration’s concession to the GOP congress. That compromise and concession bought them zero votes, and those zero votes were turned around and cited by idiots as evidence that there was no compromise.

95 William Barnett-Lewis  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:33:08pm

re: #81 Decatur Deb

Back from the Baja Alabama Porktoberque oom-pah fest. I was the only sad fucker that stood and placed hand on heart when they played the “Pennsylvania Polka”.

I only do that for “Beer Barrel Polka”. But then, this is Wisconsin where we have a polka only radio station ;)

96 klys  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:37:02pm

re: #94 goddamnedfrank

That’s just single payer by another name, and without the government negotiating directly with the provider to lower prices. When the government absorbs losses through debtor insolvency and death the costs just get passed on again to the tax payer. The tax payer is also paying for the low interest subsidy. Why not just do it directly and implement single payer?

The reason the individual mandate started out as a Republican idea is that single payer was seen as socialistic and therefore evil. Not fighting for single payer was the Obama administrations concession to the GOP congress, that compromise and concession bought them zero votes, and those zero votes were turned around and cited by idiots as evidence that there was no compromise.

It reminds me of something I read somewhere a few years back, that to call it health “insurance” is somewhat of a misnomer. Insurance implies you’re hedging on something you’ll never need. Auto insurance, home insurance, life insurance (to an extent) - all of these industries bank on having to pay out less than they’re taking in through premiums. This is, in part, why flood insurance is separate.

Health care, on the other hand, is something we’re all going to make use of at some point or another. Maybe not to the same extent, but the person who never sees a doctor is atypical, particularly as one gets older. So you’re already starting on this slippery slope, where just about everyone will be putting some demand on the service they’re paying into.

This is why I believe everyone should be paying proportional to their ability to do so, and why I’m so strongly in favor of single payer.

97 Lidane  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:37:45pm

David Frum is being a useful idiot again. Apparently it’s Obamacare’s fault that employers are putting the squeeze on people earning less than $14.50 an hour.

The employers are all fine, it’s the law that’s bad. You know, because companies like Wal-Mart were so good to their hourly workers before.

98 klys  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:38:21pm

re: #97 Lidane

David Frum is being a useful idiot again. Apparently it’s Obamacare’s fault that employers are putting the squeeze on people earning less than $14.50 an hour.

The employers are all fine, it’s the law that’s bad. You know, because companies like Wal-Mart were so good to their hourly workers before.

There’s an obvious solution here: raising the minimum wage to $14.75 an hour.

///

99 Bubblehead II  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:38:43pm

Night Lizards. Iron Fist rule. Besides. Still need to work on season two of Ba ba black sheep.

Sleep well and may the Deity of your smile down upon you.

100 Lidane  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:39:27pm
101 goddamnedfrank  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:42:27pm

re: #93 klys

It’s ok, I’ll take my nuts that says everyone should have the ability to get medical coverage as needed. I mean, I don’t like the ACA much either - but that’s because I want single payer. I’ll take this as an acceptable stepping stone.

I have idiopathic high blood pressure. I control it well with medication, but needing the medication means I have a pre-existing condition. Before 2010 when the ACA created the PCIP program I couldn’t purchase insurance on the private market at any price. That made it hard to run my own business, so I worked for assholes and put off completing my Master’s thesis.

The PCIP program never got enough enrollees, a combination of poor advertising and the sequester closing off new enrollment early this year, but it’s been a godsend for many of us.

I’ll say again that what I think the Republicans and their big business handlers are really afraid of is the legions of unhappy, job locked worker bees realizing that they suddenly have the economic freedom to pursue their dreams. Big business is going to have to compete again for the best workers against those same workers’ ability to go into business for themselves, or to do something else they’ve always wanted but couldn’t before for fear of losing all health coverage. Wages and benefits are going to have to catch up with the last twenty years’ gains in worker productivity.

The fact that this may cause a boom in small business development and innovation is part of it too. The Republicans are desperate that the ACA not be seen as a success, and because of the existing dynamic that it’s threatening it will be almost impossible for it to be anything but.

102 Kragar  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:43:40pm

Boehner’s Office Criticizes Obama’s ‘Grandstanding’

“The House will take action that reflects the fundamental fact that Americans don’t want a government shutdown and they don’t want the train wreck that is Obamacare,” Boehner spokesman Brendan Buck said in a statement. “Grandstanding from the president, who refuses to even be a part of the process, won’t bring Congress any closer to a resolution.”

Once the President wastes 21 hours rambling about utter horseshit, you can talk about grandstanding. Until then, you lost, get over it.

103 klys  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:45:25pm

re: #101 goddamnedfrank

My dad works in the telecommunications industry. Over the past few years, he’s been treated like shit instead of being given what’s owed him (and while I think my dad is amazing, this isn’t just a daughter’s dad-worship - he has industry awards to prove it).

He’s stayed in a large part because he provides the health insurance not just for him, but for my mother and my sisters.

I would LOVE to see my dad quit, take better care of himself - which lowers health care costs in the long run!, and be able to find a reasonably priced policy on the exchanges.

104 SnowdenBaggerVance  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:45:54pm

Green Eggs and Ham is NOT utter horseshit. It’s a wonderful children’s story.

The other 20.745 hours was utter horseshit.

105 Lidane  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:46:02pm

re: #102 Kragar

Boehner’s Office Criticizes Obama’s ‘Grandstanding’

Sir John of Orange has no room to bitch about grandstanding after his ludicrous, un-serious ransom note was released.

106 klys  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:46:15pm

re: #102 Kragar

Boehner’s Office Criticizes Obama’s ‘Grandstanding’

Once the President wastes 21 hours rambling about utter horseshit, you can talk about grandstanding. Until then, you lost, get over it.

Also, ummm, isn’t the executive branch in theory NOT supposed to be involved with the work of the legislative branch?

107 goddamnedfrank  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:50:24pm

re: #104 SnowdenBaggerVance

Green Eggs and Ham is NOT utter horseshit. It’s a wonderful children’s story.

The other 20.745 hours was utter horseshit.

Cruz got the moral of GE&H exactly backwards, that’s what people meant by horseshit.

108 SnowdenBaggerVance  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:53:47pm

re: #107 goddamnedfrank

Cruz got the moral of GE&H exactly backwards, that’s what people meant by horseshit.

Yeah, I understand. I was making a snide joke.

The fact that he was reading a story about trying something you don’t like is the ultimate irony.

109 Interesting Times  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:54:27pm

re: #103 klys

My dad works in the telecommunications industry. Over the past few years, he’s been treated like shit instead of being given what’s owed him

I am so, so, sick of how ridiculously common this is - WTF, corporate America? Are you all in durr hurr, let’s treat workers like crap because we can mode? It’s at the point where there are no, I repeat no circumstances where I’d leave Canada for a job in the US (thus giving up the health insurance that doesn’t shackle me to an employer). Sure, they might offer me more money up front, but what good is it if I can be fired at any time for any reason with no recourse?

110 The Ghost of a Flea  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:54:45pm

re: #106 klys

Also, ummm, isn’t the executive branch in theory NOT supposed to be involved with the work of the legislative branch?

…so claim the people that say Obama is simultaneously an imperial president who ignores the legislative branch but also a weaklilng who won’t get things done by holding his weight around, and should be impeached for both or either.

Also a gay socialist Islamic fundamentalist.

111 klys  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:59:27pm

re: #109 Interesting Times

I am so, so, sick of how ridiculously common this is - WTF, corporate America? Are you all in durr hurr, let’s treat workers like crap because we can mode? It’s at the point where there are no, I repeat no circumstances where I’d leave Canada for a job in the US (thus giving up the health insurance that doesn’t shackle me to an employer). Sure, they might offer me more money up front, but what good is it if I can be fired at any time for any reason with no recourse?

Given some of what I’ve heard about how they treat clients, I’m not surprised by how they treat their employees.

I look forward, in a lot of ways, to when my dad retires and they realize exactly how fucked they are.

112 Kragar  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 6:59:29pm
113 klys  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 7:00:48pm

re: #112 Kragar

[Embedded content]

This week will be my response to anyone who tries to tell me that politics were just as partisan back in the (insert time period here).

114 Feline Fearless Leader  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 7:02:23pm

Army of Darkness just starting. “Shop smart, shop S-Mart!”

116 Lidane  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 7:06:28pm
117 Lidane  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 7:07:44pm

I love it when people who are losing an argument resort to personal insults. Makes them so much easier to block on Twitter.

118 The Ghost of a Flea  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 7:07:51pm

re: #115 jaunte

O’Reilly: Uninsured Must Get Out Of The “Crack House” To Sign Up For Obamacare

Nice.

O’Reilly: Blackity-blackity-blackity-black. You can’t explain that.

119 sagehen  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 7:08:23pm

re: #43 freetoken

Given that the “tea party” is just a cynically manipulated (by wealthy power brokers) grouping of old people who don’t like change and are harboring resentment and hatred toward people who are different, I think the rest of America has just gotten tired of the theatre.

My sister’s still into them; she’s somehow convinced herself they’re just all about fiscal responsibility (this is a sister sophisticated enough about investments that she most certainly ought to be able to understand the irresponsibility of a default, but there you go.)

120 SnowdenBaggerVance  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 7:08:40pm

re: #115 jaunte

O’Reilly: Uninsured Must Get Out Of The “Crack House” To Sign Up For Obamacare

Nice.

You’re racist for saying… oh, nevermind.

121 goddamnedfrank  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 7:09:10pm

re: #112 Kragar

[Embedded content]

Realizing that he was playing with children, Reid should have called “no backsies.”

122 Varek Raith  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 7:09:35pm

I’ll be signing up for it.
Or at least attempt to.

Fuck you Bill.

123 A Man for all Seasons  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 7:10:35pm

Sure..It’s Friday night..Greetings..
Having been bombarded for all the millions of images you have taken in today..Excel Spreadsheets, A million emails..Cute animal pictures and political drama seldom seen..Vast Oceans of Technology at your whim with just a click of a finger..Millions of moments every day with all the resultant emotion that comes with them.
Yet you feel empty tonight..Something is missing today.
I’m here to help and complete your day.
A 10,000 dollar high precision .50 Caliber Rifle blowing the shit out of a new rare gold iPhone 5s… Plus slo-mo video! It’s really cool.
Man..It’s great on so many levels… I found myself glancing down at the Blackberry...mmm. Some day you are going down mr. berry.. ya..you B going down…
theregister.co.uk

124 goddamnedfrank  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 7:11:20pm

re: #119 sagehen

My sister’s still into them; she’s somehow convinced herself they’re just all about fiscal responsibility (this is a sister sophisticated enough about investments that she most certainly ought to be able to understand the irresponsibility of a default, but there you go.)

Have you considered punching her in the boob?

125 calochortus  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 7:12:12pm

re: #72 klys

But not student loans, because apparently somehow the benefits of medical care evaporate if you file for bankruptcy but not the benefits from student loans.

Or something.

I think the reason behind not letting people get out of their student loans was that a fair number of people figured out that when one graduates from college with $50,000 in debt, no significant net worth and an otherwise bright future, it is the perfect time to get out from under all that debt by declaring bankruptcy. That is morally wrong. So is having the debt follow you beyond the grave (I believe it comes out of your estate if you haven’t paid it off.)

126 dog philosopher  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 7:12:45pm

re: #112 Kragar

House GOP: Insert defunding language, send it right back. If don’t, was just a show vote. t.co

— Bryan Fischer

and i bet you believe in professional wrestling too, doncha bryan

127 ProTARDISLiberal  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 7:14:39pm

Here is something interesting about the US & Bangladesh:

Over 53% of Bangladeshis expressed favorable views of the US in recent opinion polls. During her visit to Dhaka in 2012, US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton remarked that America was “betting on Bangladesh” as the country achieves increasing economic and social progress.

There are probably only 2 other Muslim Majority states where that is true:

Albania & Libya (and the latter was not wholly our doing. The MB revealed themselves to be slimy shits during the Libyan Revolutionary War.)

128 klys  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 7:14:59pm

re: #125 calochortus

I think the reason behind not letting people get out of their student loans was that a fair number of people figured out that when one graduates from college with $50,000 in debt, no significant net worth and an otherwise bright future, it is the perfect time to get out from under all that debt by declaring bankruptcy. That is morally wrong. So is having the debt follow you beyond the grave (I believe it comes out of your estate if you haven’t paid it off.)

I can understand that rationale, but the current situation is also wrong. Maybe a middle ground would be to have a set number of years where student loans cannot be discharged through bankruptcy or something along those lines. I’m sure if a bunch of people more familiar with economics than me put their heads together, something reasonable could be developed.

129 sagehen  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 7:15:46pm

re: #85 klys

The amazing part is someone made two baby platypus sized fedoras.

By hand.

They’re probably hand-me-downs from kittens who outgrew them.

130 ProTARDISLiberal  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 7:16:42pm

re: #127 ProTARDISLiberal

Also, Bangladesh must be the most forgiving country on the planet.

They have every reason to be very anti-American, and they are not.

131 The Ghost of a Flea  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 7:18:07pm

re: #126 dog philosopher

and i bet you believe in professional wrestling too, doncha bryan

Watching wrestling is an important of contemplating The Riddle of Steel, as Conan Christ commanded.

132 calochortus  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 7:20:26pm

re: #128 klys

I can understand that rationale, but the current situation is also wrong. Maybe a middle ground would be to have a set number of years where student loans cannot be discharged through bankruptcy or something along those lines. I’m sure if a bunch of people more familiar with economics than me put their heads together, something reasonable could be developed.

Yes, the current situation is also wrong. I would definitely like to see a middle ground.

133 klys  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 7:20:28pm

re: #129 sagehen

They’re probably hand-me-downs from kittens who outgrew them.

Internet, now I desire a photo of a kitten in a fedora.

Make it so.

134 goddamnedfrank  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 7:21:06pm

re: #127 ProTARDISLiberal

Here is something interesting about the US & Bangladesh:

There are probably only 2 other Muslim Majority states where that is true:

Albania & Libya (and the latter was not wholly our doing. The MB revealed themselves to be slimy shits during the Libyan Revolutionary War.)

Kosovo. 95% muslim, US popularity is 87%, highest in all of Europe.

135 jaunte  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 7:21:39pm

re: #133 klys

cutlerish.tumblr.com

136 klys  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 7:22:45pm

re: #135 jaunte

cutlerish.tumblr.com

You, sir, win one internets.

137 Charles Johnson  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 7:24:08pm
138 The Ghost of a Flea  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 7:28:25pm

re: #132 calochortus

Yes, the current situation is also wrong. I would definitely like to see a middle ground.

Part of what’s messed up about the student loan situation is that so many people were given “advice” by their school, or by loan counsellors, about where and how to get a loan…but these advisors nominally acting as fiduciary didn’t reveal that they had a vested interest in the student not shopping (via kickbacks, donations, or being part of the same corporate tree). And more damning, these “advisors” didn’t explain the terms of the loan, so lots of people were locked in to setups they couldn’t handle. Kids (and parents of kids) went to a pro for advice, the pro gave them not just bad, but self-serving) advice, and when the chips were down suddenly it’s all “you fucked up…you trusted us.”

139 Cardio (formerly JRCMYP)  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 7:29:09pm

Record?

140 blueraven  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 7:29:13pm

OK when did twitter switch to placing images above the tweet?

I leave for just a bit and…

141 ProTARDISLiberal  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 7:29:34pm

re: #134 goddamnedfrank

That’s 4 then.

This is why I am not completely anti-intervention.

Also, in Pakistan news:

Officials in Pakistan make a plea to separatist militants in Balochistan province to cease operations so that search and rescue can occur for victims of this week’s earthquake.

Somehow, I don’t think the Balochs trust Pakistan. I certainly don’t after the revelations about Bin Laden. Break it up.

142 calochortus  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 7:30:52pm

re: #138 The Ghost of a Flea

Absolutely true. I can’t tell you how happy I am to have gotten our kids through college without loans. (Can you say “state college”?)

143 Dancing along the light of day  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 7:33:00pm

re: #123 A Man for all Seasons

Water, shorts out all the circuts.
Also satisfying!
Hi YOU!

144 William Barnett-Lewis  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 7:36:22pm

Hmm. “1066 and all that” … For whatever reason, when thinking about this event, it doesn’t seem 947 years ago…

en.wikipedia.org

That is, this is the anniversary of when William The Bastard landed his forces at Pevensey, Sussex to begin his transformation to William the Conqueror. Harold had already fought two major battles but William had a fresh army a the other end of the nation. Whatever England was before that day, it was never the same after and that influx of French language, laws, ideas & everything else would set a pattern that still defines many of us in the US to this day.

I need to remember to drink a toast to both Harold and William come October 14th. ..

145 kirkspencer  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 7:38:01pm

re: #113 klys

This week will be my response to anyone who tries to tell me that politics were just as partisan back in the (insert time period here).

Actually there are a couple of periods in the past when politics was just as partisan. If your stomach’s strong check out 1860/61 and compare/contrast the then-Dems (or more accurately the southern Dems) with today’s ‘Publicans.

For another ugly window see the first time the winner of the popular vote did not become president - also the only case of the president being determined by a vote of the House. 1824, the ‘Corrupt Congress’ that elected John Quincy Adams president (and Calhoun Vice President). But the traitors who brought us the civil war were worse. Not as bad as the traitors that led us to the civil war (though a surprising number of people are in both) but still ugly.

146 Dancing along the light of day  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 7:39:24pm

re: #137 Charles Johnson
Tubular, Dude!

147 A Man for all Seasons  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 7:43:32pm

re: #134 goddamnedfrank

Kosovo. 95% muslim, US popularity is 87%, highest in all of Europe.

You’re cool dude..you’ve been around here quite a while and mostly dead on in your observations and posts. This is not in any way directed at you..Just a thought..So many don’t know..or have forgotten..Some think us average Americans need to be brought up to speed in Foreign policy with the ME. USSR, Europe, Bosnia, India and China..To mention a few..
Over the years we have developed a more complex view of global politics…
To barely scrap this subject…Why in some muslim country’s like Americans ( aside from politics ) Maybe they remember when 10’s of thousands of Bangladesh died during the 70’s and we sent tons of assistance.. We forgot the horror of those days..And how we helped..In so many places on Earth without the care of religion to practice or the color of your skin..When an Act of God struck..We have been there with a helping hand and food…Sure it can be imperfect..But we reach out and people remember that and it makes a difference. America seems to be deeply loved and Hated at the same time.. I’m not happy about some of our policies in our past..But it still can be fixed..
Years ago..I was in a College political science class..( hey..It looked like easy freaking points.)
I sat next to an iconic color poster of the day.. A young girl sitting in a vast desert with her scarf on.. with a box of candy bars marked from the USA and holding one, looking dismissively and flipping the bird to the camera. It’s complex

148 sagehen  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 7:45:49pm

re: #145 kirkspencer

Actually there are a couple of periods in the past when politics was just as partisan. If your stomach’s strong check out 1860/61 and compare/contrast the then-Dems (or more accurately the southern Dems) with today’s ‘Publicans.

For another ugly window see the first time the winner of the popular vote did not become president - also the only case of the president being determined by a vote of the House. 1824, the ‘Corrupt Congress’ that elected John Quincy Adams president (and Calhoun Vice President). But the traitors who brought us the civil war were worse. Not as bad as the traitors that led us to the civil war (though a surprising number of people are in both) but still ugly.

How about the 1950’s? President Eisenhower had to send the 101st Airborne to remove the Arkansas National Guard, so he could enforce a unanimous Supreme Court Decision that the folks in Dixie didn’t like…

(and was that the last time a Supreme Court Decision has been 9-0?)

149 ProTARDISLiberal  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 7:47:53pm

re: #147 A Man for all Seasons

The thing with Kosovo is we came in like a pack of Rhinos. We shitcanned Serbia, and put a relatively minor force in Camp Bondsteel.

With Bangladesh, they are forgiving. Nixon and Kissinger actually aided Pakistan, though Internal Opposition to that was enormous. It’s an indelible stain on our history.

150 sagehen  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 7:48:41pm

re: #148 sagehen

Virginia’s response to the Desegregation order was to say “okay, we just won’t have any public schools then.” They locked them all up, opened supposedly private schools (they charged $10/year tuition, whites only, and the state legislature did some wacky workaround so they’d still get a ton of public money. But they weren’t public schools.)

And for five years, no black child in the state of virginia could go to school at all. Any school.

151 Feline Fearless Leader  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 8:17:20pm

re: #150 sagehen

Virginia’s response to the Desegregation order was to say “okay, we just won’t have any public schools then.” They locked them all up, opened supposedly private schools (they charged $10/year tuition, whites only, and the state legislature did some wacky workaround so they’d still get a ton of public money. But they weren’t public schools.)

And for five years, no black child in the state of virginia could go to school at all. Any school.

Setting the grounds for the need for further SC decisions regarding using federal or state funds for private schools.

152 Egregious Philbin  Fri, Sep 27, 2013 9:31:27pm

What, people don’t like angry white guy uneducated rabble?

LOL

When you chase the angry white male christian vote, don’t be surprised when that amount gets smaller and smaller.

153 sunnygal  Sat, Sep 28, 2013 2:10:51pm

re: #51 Cheechako

It depends on which state you live in. Some states have mandatory Personal Injury Protection (insurance for medical bills and wage loss due to injuries in a MVA) but there are limits to the amount of coverage. It is primary insurance. Then, after exhausting the PIP, one’s own insurance takes over. If the injured person was not at fault, she can make a claim against the at-fault driver but that will take months to years to resolve (not the best way to pay medical bills which are due immediately, so her own health insurance will pay in the interim, after the PIP runs out). Her own insurance - either PIP or health, or both - will make a claim against any recovery she receives to compensate her for her medical bills. If she was at fault, no claim against anyone and her own health insurance company is responsible.

I’m a retired P.I. lawyer. Advice to everyone: Get the maximum PIP available to you. No deductibles, no copays. And quite cheap, comparatively.


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Ranked-Choice Voting Has Challenged the Status Quo. Its Popularity Will Be Tested in November. JUNEAU — Alaska’s new election system — with open primaries and ranked voting — has been a model for those in other states who are frustrated by political polarization and a sense that voters lack real choice at the ...
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