Ron Paul stated in his New Hampshire speech, "They're scared of us because we're dangerous to the status-quo." Who are 'they' and what was Ron Paul, the figure head for the Libertarian movement within the GOP, talking about?
Libertarianism is a political philosophy aimed at making decisions based on a simple principle - personal responsibility and limited government intervention. It is greatly misunderstood and misconstrued by pundits, stirring the sheep into a frenzy, but when asked one-on-one you will find that a majority of Americans are actually Libertarian minded. The political right brands Libertarians as "pro-drug, anti-war lefties". The political left brands Libertarians as "ultra-right-wing extremists bent on taking away government handouts." The brilliance of these labels is that they are both right, and THIS is what the political dividers fear.
We are in a political circus where the change in leadership does nothing to adjust the course of this nation. We are marching steadily to the beat of a drummer taking us into a fiery pit. The GOP and the Dems have done little in the past fifty plus years to correct our course, rather we continue the same game of political wife swapping.
Both political parties, backed by their super-wealthy donors (media and banking elites), have the same agenda: American Imperialism and Absolute Government Control. Even Obama's 'Hope and Change' was no match for the momentum of the true powers of this nation (and the world). His continuation and escalation of foreign wars was a direct continuation of the Bush foreign policy of Nation Building and preemptive warfare, which was the direct continuation of Clinton's foreign policy of Nation Building and World Policing, which was a direct continuation of Bush Sr's foreign policy of Nation Building and World Policing, which was a direct continuation of Reagan's foreign policy of foreign interventionism and World Policing against the Soviets, which was a continuation of Carter's much weaker but still present foreign policy of foreign interventionism and World Policing, which was a direct continuation of Ford's foreign policy... You get the point? Since the dawn of this nation the US has been involved in foreign wars and colonialism. At first it was "Manifest Destiny" that drove the Americans westward, causing mass devastation to a population of natives already settled in the land. After the continental empire was complete, the US became heavily involved in the far east in the later half of the 19th century, directly influencing the events building up to the two World Wars. Post WWII the US military industrial complex was so grand that even Gen. and President Eisenhower warned the US about in his farewell address in 1961. Most recently, over the last ten years, the US population has seen a drastic erosion of the basic civil liberties and a perversion of power by the ruling elite - both parties blaming the other, but neither doing anything to actually stop it. Economically and Socially, both parties are power-hungry leviathans with no real interest in healing the nation or taking up the cause of liberty. They are the status-quo.
Ron Paul said it best, "We do need change in this country - but not something new, something that already existed." What he means is that the cause of Libertarianism is not one of fundamental changes in America, rather a return to liberties that were defined at our founding.
The powers that be, the political parties, fear the idea of Libertarianism because the government has grown "too large to fail".
For the GOP, any Libertarian talk of reducing the size of the US overseas presence, ending foreign wars, and putting an end to Nation Building is seen as a threat to the NeoConservative movement that has become the GOP. Drastically cutting spending, ending power grabs and the Patriot Act... all seen as 'threats to national security' by the GOP security/war hawks. How can we ever be safe if the government doesn't regulate and police our every move? This is the GOP. These are the things they do not want to give up.
For the Democrats, any Libertarian talk of reducing government handouts, eliminating unconstitutional departments at the Federal level, and scaling back government intervention into private business and affairs is seen as a threat to the Socialist/Populist movement that has become the Democratic Party. Cutting trillions in spending, phasing out the hand-outs, and returning responsibility to the individual is seen as a threat to the "New Deal Society" aimed at providing a safety net and retirement check for every US citizen (and now world citizen, it appears). How can we ever survive if the government is not there to feed and clothe us? These are the Democrats. These are the things they do not want to give up.
And so they dance their little dances, make their backroom deals, and at every turn each multimillionaire in power becomes a little richer and a little more power hungry. They live by their own set of rules and governances whilst we are subject to their dominion. They are two sides of the same turd... and you all know the old idiom about polishing a turd.
And so they fear the idea that we may have to repay our debts. They fear the concept of increased liberty and personal responsibility. They spread fear and lies of chaos without their "protection" or their "safety net".
They are afraid of letting go of their power. And so they fear the people standing up for the cause of liberty.
Showing posts with label liberty. Show all posts
Showing posts with label liberty. Show all posts
Thursday, January 12, 2012
Monday, November 29, 2010
US wants to label Wiki-Leaks lead as "Terrorist"
I have posed the question time and again over the years: What is a terrorist? Time and again I have come to the same conclusion. A terrorist is anyone who gets in the way of the United States or her allies. You don't have to be making bombs in a shack behind your house. No, as the 2009 leaked memo about right-wing terrorists who can be classified as anyone participating in a Tea Party event of that year poignantly revealed, all you need to do is challenge the US government. And as the recent Wiki-Leaks debacle reaffirms, embarrassing the sleeping dragon is worse than a surprise attack on her harbors.
Forget the illness, treat the symptom.
Instead of going after the Wiki-leaks organization, we need to ask ourselves "How did we get into this mess in the first place?" Saudi Kings begging us to attack Iran. Covert air strikes in Yemen. Disputes with Pakistan, Russia, and China. Other than confirming news stories that we all already knew about, and hearing first person details and opinion, the leaks are symptoms of the greater sickness with which the United States is currently plagued.
George Washington warned in his farewell address to beware our entanglement in foreign alliances and affairs. He warned that there is no cause so great as to suggest US free men should lay boots on the ground of foreign land, and suggested that any requirement to do so should also require an expeditious return to the free soils of the US. However, the US ignores the Father of this nation, and the warnings he has given. We are grossly entangled in all the world affairs, and it is the fuel that drives anger toward us from both without and within.
John Kennedy warned of secrets within the government, and the dangers they posed for the people. Dwight Eisenhower warned of the US war machine and the military industrial complex. Benjamin Franklin declared that those who surrender liberty for security deserve neither. And yet here we are. 2010 is rapidly coming to a close. Our secrets revealed, our flesh exposed. The true nature of the United States and our foreign entanglements are there for every free thinking man and woman to read, and to form their own conclusion. The symptom is the web of lies, the eternal wars, the worldwide empire. The illness is most assuredly Alzheimer's, for we fail to recognize or acknowledge the wisdom of our forefathers. History is a more distant than a vague memory; it is lost altogether. We are on a crusade of world leadership, a responsibility of world policing, on a mission against terror. However, we lead with force and not by example; we police to our government's interest and not in accordance with just laws; the only terror is the threat of tyranny against our own people and that of people around the world.
Whatever your view of the wiki-leak events, do not be fooled by the symptoms. Look deeper into our ailment. What is the cause of such great secrecy. What do we have to hide? Then, and only then can we start to accurately diagnose our true sickness.
The paper also cited documents showing the U.S. used hard line tactics to win approval from countries to accept freed detainees from Guantanamo Bay. It said Slovenia was told to take a prisoner if its president wanted to meet with President Barack Obama and said the Pacific island of Kiribati was offered millions of dollars to take in a group of detainees.WikiLeaks should be designated a 'foreign terrorist organization,' Rep. Pete King demanded, citing treason and espionage. Again, we see common criminal acts being presented to the population in a double speak of fear and manipulation, as if the people of the United States (and the world) are too stupid to deduce results for themselves. So we are encouraged to look at any crime as an 'act of terror', and therefore the US should immediately, without prejudice or process, dispatch the 'terrorists'... "and the people will love you for it." (Instructions to the Gladiator on how to kill for entertainment)
Italy's Foreign Minister Franco Frattini on Sunday called the release the "Sept. 11 of world diplomacy," in that everything that had once been accepted as normal has now changed.
Forget the illness, treat the symptom.
Instead of going after the Wiki-leaks organization, we need to ask ourselves "How did we get into this mess in the first place?" Saudi Kings begging us to attack Iran. Covert air strikes in Yemen. Disputes with Pakistan, Russia, and China. Other than confirming news stories that we all already knew about, and hearing first person details and opinion, the leaks are symptoms of the greater sickness with which the United States is currently plagued.
George Washington warned in his farewell address to beware our entanglement in foreign alliances and affairs. He warned that there is no cause so great as to suggest US free men should lay boots on the ground of foreign land, and suggested that any requirement to do so should also require an expeditious return to the free soils of the US. However, the US ignores the Father of this nation, and the warnings he has given. We are grossly entangled in all the world affairs, and it is the fuel that drives anger toward us from both without and within.
John Kennedy warned of secrets within the government, and the dangers they posed for the people. Dwight Eisenhower warned of the US war machine and the military industrial complex. Benjamin Franklin declared that those who surrender liberty for security deserve neither. And yet here we are. 2010 is rapidly coming to a close. Our secrets revealed, our flesh exposed. The true nature of the United States and our foreign entanglements are there for every free thinking man and woman to read, and to form their own conclusion. The symptom is the web of lies, the eternal wars, the worldwide empire. The illness is most assuredly Alzheimer's, for we fail to recognize or acknowledge the wisdom of our forefathers. History is a more distant than a vague memory; it is lost altogether. We are on a crusade of world leadership, a responsibility of world policing, on a mission against terror. However, we lead with force and not by example; we police to our government's interest and not in accordance with just laws; the only terror is the threat of tyranny against our own people and that of people around the world.
Whatever your view of the wiki-leak events, do not be fooled by the symptoms. Look deeper into our ailment. What is the cause of such great secrecy. What do we have to hide? Then, and only then can we start to accurately diagnose our true sickness.
Thursday, October 21, 2010
The Foreseeable Shortcomings of a Republican Majority
There is no doubt that the Republicans will sweep into Legislative Majorities in one or both houses after a short four year exile. It is not, however, a radical change in the GOP that has swung the electorate into 'the big tent'; it is a clear civil unrest over some very key faults of the Federal Government. Those elements are spending, budget, taxes, and jobs. The fact that the only platform put forth by the GOP establishment in 'The Pledge' is vague in solutions to these ends, and that the party is still decisively split on foreign issues, banking issues, etc. is clear evidence that the 2010 Republican Majority may find itself causing more harm than good.
In the simplest of statements, the GOP majority stands poised to squander any significant fundamental ability to change the legislation of the past ten to twenty years. This goes beyond Obama, extending through Bush and right on into Clinton. In fact, one could make an argument that fundamental reconstruction of the make-up of the US essentially starts with legislation that is a hundred years old.
What should the new, independent, Constitutionally backed GOP minority push the greater GOP establishment into tackling over the next two years? More importantly, what will the GOP establishment and the Liberals who survive the coming blood-letting work fervently to stop? Below is a list of the top SEVEN issues needed to repair the economy and structure of this nation:
7. Repair Social Security. When Social Security was adopted in the 1930's, it was intended to be a safety net. That safety net, for better or for worse, became a staple in the American Work Force, establishing secure retirement for elderly and providing a social welfare for the disabled. In the 1960's, Democrats tapped into the extra revenue of the SS program in order to balance their budget. This pillaging of the senior retirement fund fundamentally destroyed the system as a safety net, transferring the burden from a personal savings to a necessary tax item on the annual budget. Democrats looked to Social Security income as a source of revenue, depleting the savings account of America. We need an act of congress to completely restore the coffers and remove Social Security receipts as 'income' to the federal government. We also need to ensure that only those truly eligible receive funds, non-illegals, etc (and those who have paid into the system for a certain number of years). Payments should be a factor of contribution, etc, etc. This approach is constructive to the current dependency on the system, does not alienate the elderly or disabled who may be at a disadvantage, and is a good faith common-sense compromise that works across the aisle.
6. Fix Healthcare. Obamacare and other forms of socialized medicine are destructive to industry - both in the medical field and across the board. Obamacare was so invasive that it made it a federal crime to NOT purchase insurance from a private company. This and other aspects of the law are grossly unconstitutional and will not survive the courts. There are, however, positive glimpses within the document that were horribly implemented - for instance, denied coverage due to past illness, and coverage for children. Congress can pass legislation under equal protection and non discrimination forcing insurers to allow equal and affordable coverage for all. There are many ways of restructuring the system within the current set of rules (pre-Obamacare); However, what if we cast aside the set of current rules and changed the playing field? If we combine tort reform, state government ownership (on a state by state basis as voted on by the people of each state in accordance with the 10th amendment), and a true level playing field for insurance (interstate plans, restriction of price fixing, etc.) the free market competition would drive insurance prices down. A top down Federal health system is unconstitutional, and should be left to the states, thus the current system needs to be absolutely repealed and reframed.
5. Pay down the National Debt. Throw a wrench in the cogs of ALL the National debt calculator widgets by reversing the trend. Pay down the national debt. This should be made a priority as a good faith gesture to America that the government tyrants are going away. A well planned budget could effectively pay off the entire national debt in two presidential terms. That is right. I personally claim to have a plan to pay down $14 Trillion in 8 years. The following three items lay out the general ingredients to how this is possible.
4. Fix the Tax Structure. The tax codes change from year to year, written in such a way that only those with access to high cost lawyers can curtail true tax rates, and end up paying less than their fair share; in most cases those tax evaders are the tax code writers - your Congressmen and Senators. A flat tax is not absolutely necessary, but it provides an excellent model for restructuring the US tax code into a simple handbook. Combine the Flat Tax and the Progressive Tax (under which we currently operate), and eliminate deductions for incomes over a set dollar amount. Restructure the tax rates to reflect typical current payments based on deductions for lower and middle earners, and then simplify by eliminating the deductions for all. Eliminate EIC, as it is simply a pay-out of wealth redistribution. remove everything from the US tax code other than a simple chart indicating income and expected taxes. Business and corporate taxes would embody a similar system with an adjusted flat rate with no deductions. The system would be uniform and constitutional. The revenue to the US government would reflect a net increase without any significant modification to current tax burdens. I could easily calculate a $0.5 Trillion annual revenue increase by eliminating loopholes for the rich senators and their friends. Other adjustments may need to be made to balance a debt pay-down plan.
3. Cut Government Spending. Current government budgets are usually never reduced, and often simply push forward funding for programs plus a percentage budget increase each year. Anyone currently addressing "significant budget cuts" simply mean that the percent increase was reduced - but facts show that the net program spending increases! Some system! Do a full scrub of the entire budget. Make some deep and necessary cuts - to the tune of at LEAST $1.5Trillion (or half of the 2010 budget). I have run these calculations and major defense cuts associated with eliminating unnecessary multi-billion dollar federal departments and cutting unnecessary portions of the remaining department funds, while placing certain obligations back into the hands of the states or citizens (like education), cutting $1.5Trillion comes easy without even broaching the Medicare/Medicaid coffers. Eliminating them in favor of a Social Security Medical system and other healthcare changes reducing the cost and increasing the availability of private healthcare easily makes immense gains toward elimination of debt.
2. Take Control of Monetary Policy. A repeal of the Federal Reserve Act, or a restructure of the way the Treasury handles the monetary system would immediately eliminate a grand portion of our debt, would eliminate the need to pay interest on our own monetary system to a private conglomerate of banks who have no connection to the Federal Government, and would fundamentally change the way we do business in the US with regards to spending and borrowing. It is a drastic move and a massive show of force against the banks who continually suck the government and the citizens dry for profit. Eliminating the debt by a swoop of a pen would by far be the most dramatic law in the history of the world. Other less drastic steps could be taken, like renegotiation of all interest on debts to 0.0% (since it is OUR money). Such a step would immediately save $164 Billion annually, and could be used to negotiate down total debt to the Federal Reserve. International debt would be handled separately.
1. Repeal the Patriot Act. Next to financials, the Patriot Act was the single most restrictive piece of legislation to American Liberties. The frustration in 2006 & 2008 against Bush was due to such invasive laws (as well as the wars). A restructure of the intelligence agencies does not necessitate a collapse of civil liberties. This law is an abomination and should be struck in its entirety.
These are some of the most extreme examples, but necessary to turn our country away from social tyranny toward a peaceful economic powerhouse. If the new GOP pushed for even a tiny part of these changes, they would establish themselves as sound leadership for generations. If these are the principles we truly embrace (smaller government, lower taxes, more freedom), then the above changes are not radical or extreme; they are necessary elements in the fundamental restructuring as part of a more perfect union. One in which ideas like "the new deal" can provide security for citizens while the focus and structure of the government can return to a less powerful advisory board focused on defense and equal protection under the law. There is a perfect equilibrium, but we are far removed from it. hard work and sacrifice on the part of the Federal government is key to reach the higher middle ground. The new GOP needs to lead us there.
In the simplest of statements, the GOP majority stands poised to squander any significant fundamental ability to change the legislation of the past ten to twenty years. This goes beyond Obama, extending through Bush and right on into Clinton. In fact, one could make an argument that fundamental reconstruction of the make-up of the US essentially starts with legislation that is a hundred years old.
What should the new, independent, Constitutionally backed GOP minority push the greater GOP establishment into tackling over the next two years? More importantly, what will the GOP establishment and the Liberals who survive the coming blood-letting work fervently to stop? Below is a list of the top SEVEN issues needed to repair the economy and structure of this nation:
7. Repair Social Security. When Social Security was adopted in the 1930's, it was intended to be a safety net. That safety net, for better or for worse, became a staple in the American Work Force, establishing secure retirement for elderly and providing a social welfare for the disabled. In the 1960's, Democrats tapped into the extra revenue of the SS program in order to balance their budget. This pillaging of the senior retirement fund fundamentally destroyed the system as a safety net, transferring the burden from a personal savings to a necessary tax item on the annual budget. Democrats looked to Social Security income as a source of revenue, depleting the savings account of America. We need an act of congress to completely restore the coffers and remove Social Security receipts as 'income' to the federal government. We also need to ensure that only those truly eligible receive funds, non-illegals, etc (and those who have paid into the system for a certain number of years). Payments should be a factor of contribution, etc, etc. This approach is constructive to the current dependency on the system, does not alienate the elderly or disabled who may be at a disadvantage, and is a good faith common-sense compromise that works across the aisle.
6. Fix Healthcare. Obamacare and other forms of socialized medicine are destructive to industry - both in the medical field and across the board. Obamacare was so invasive that it made it a federal crime to NOT purchase insurance from a private company. This and other aspects of the law are grossly unconstitutional and will not survive the courts. There are, however, positive glimpses within the document that were horribly implemented - for instance, denied coverage due to past illness, and coverage for children. Congress can pass legislation under equal protection and non discrimination forcing insurers to allow equal and affordable coverage for all. There are many ways of restructuring the system within the current set of rules (pre-Obamacare); However, what if we cast aside the set of current rules and changed the playing field? If we combine tort reform, state government ownership (on a state by state basis as voted on by the people of each state in accordance with the 10th amendment), and a true level playing field for insurance (interstate plans, restriction of price fixing, etc.) the free market competition would drive insurance prices down. A top down Federal health system is unconstitutional, and should be left to the states, thus the current system needs to be absolutely repealed and reframed.
5. Pay down the National Debt. Throw a wrench in the cogs of ALL the National debt calculator widgets by reversing the trend. Pay down the national debt. This should be made a priority as a good faith gesture to America that the government tyrants are going away. A well planned budget could effectively pay off the entire national debt in two presidential terms. That is right. I personally claim to have a plan to pay down $14 Trillion in 8 years. The following three items lay out the general ingredients to how this is possible.
4. Fix the Tax Structure. The tax codes change from year to year, written in such a way that only those with access to high cost lawyers can curtail true tax rates, and end up paying less than their fair share; in most cases those tax evaders are the tax code writers - your Congressmen and Senators. A flat tax is not absolutely necessary, but it provides an excellent model for restructuring the US tax code into a simple handbook. Combine the Flat Tax and the Progressive Tax (under which we currently operate), and eliminate deductions for incomes over a set dollar amount. Restructure the tax rates to reflect typical current payments based on deductions for lower and middle earners, and then simplify by eliminating the deductions for all. Eliminate EIC, as it is simply a pay-out of wealth redistribution. remove everything from the US tax code other than a simple chart indicating income and expected taxes. Business and corporate taxes would embody a similar system with an adjusted flat rate with no deductions. The system would be uniform and constitutional. The revenue to the US government would reflect a net increase without any significant modification to current tax burdens. I could easily calculate a $0.5 Trillion annual revenue increase by eliminating loopholes for the rich senators and their friends. Other adjustments may need to be made to balance a debt pay-down plan.
3. Cut Government Spending. Current government budgets are usually never reduced, and often simply push forward funding for programs plus a percentage budget increase each year. Anyone currently addressing "significant budget cuts" simply mean that the percent increase was reduced - but facts show that the net program spending increases! Some system! Do a full scrub of the entire budget. Make some deep and necessary cuts - to the tune of at LEAST $1.5Trillion (or half of the 2010 budget). I have run these calculations and major defense cuts associated with eliminating unnecessary multi-billion dollar federal departments and cutting unnecessary portions of the remaining department funds, while placing certain obligations back into the hands of the states or citizens (like education), cutting $1.5Trillion comes easy without even broaching the Medicare/Medicaid coffers. Eliminating them in favor of a Social Security Medical system and other healthcare changes reducing the cost and increasing the availability of private healthcare easily makes immense gains toward elimination of debt.
2. Take Control of Monetary Policy. A repeal of the Federal Reserve Act, or a restructure of the way the Treasury handles the monetary system would immediately eliminate a grand portion of our debt, would eliminate the need to pay interest on our own monetary system to a private conglomerate of banks who have no connection to the Federal Government, and would fundamentally change the way we do business in the US with regards to spending and borrowing. It is a drastic move and a massive show of force against the banks who continually suck the government and the citizens dry for profit. Eliminating the debt by a swoop of a pen would by far be the most dramatic law in the history of the world. Other less drastic steps could be taken, like renegotiation of all interest on debts to 0.0% (since it is OUR money). Such a step would immediately save $164 Billion annually, and could be used to negotiate down total debt to the Federal Reserve. International debt would be handled separately.
1. Repeal the Patriot Act. Next to financials, the Patriot Act was the single most restrictive piece of legislation to American Liberties. The frustration in 2006 & 2008 against Bush was due to such invasive laws (as well as the wars). A restructure of the intelligence agencies does not necessitate a collapse of civil liberties. This law is an abomination and should be struck in its entirety.
These are some of the most extreme examples, but necessary to turn our country away from social tyranny toward a peaceful economic powerhouse. If the new GOP pushed for even a tiny part of these changes, they would establish themselves as sound leadership for generations. If these are the principles we truly embrace (smaller government, lower taxes, more freedom), then the above changes are not radical or extreme; they are necessary elements in the fundamental restructuring as part of a more perfect union. One in which ideas like "the new deal" can provide security for citizens while the focus and structure of the government can return to a less powerful advisory board focused on defense and equal protection under the law. There is a perfect equilibrium, but we are far removed from it. hard work and sacrifice on the part of the Federal government is key to reach the higher middle ground. The new GOP needs to lead us there.
Thursday, September 9, 2010
On the Ropes
Obama and the Democrats are in trouble, whether they admit it or not. Polling in Washington State now indicates that Republican (moderate) Rossi is going to win in November over liberal Democrat incumbent, Patty Murray. Murray cannot poll over 45%, and is showing horribly in the democratic strong-hold of Seattle's King County. Washington state was supposed to be a safe democrat seat, was moved to a toss-up seat, and is looking more and more like a seat that is leaning republican.
Barbara Boxer is also in trouble. The latest debate between incumbent California Democrat Boxer and Republican challenger Fiorina was nothing more than a Boxer mud-slinging fest, trying to defame the successful HP former executive. Boxer's numbers dropped following the debate putting Fiorina ahead for the first time in that race.
Across the nation, not only are Liberal Democrats losing to moderate Republicans, they are losing in droves to Conservative Libertarian Republicans (Liberty Republicans), such as Joe Miller in Alaska, Marco Rubio in Florida, and Rand Paul in Kentucky. Democrats are losing Governorships to staunch Libertarian Conservatives - and Oregon, the longest consecutive held Democratic Governorship in the US, is bearing witness to a massive GOP win in the polls, and an expected GOP win in Nov.
Recent polling also indicates that the GOP will take over the House of Representatives, removing the giant gavel from Pelosi, and replacing many ultra liberals with some very staunch libertarian conservatives.
The Democrats are on the ropes, taking body punch after body punch. They are bloody, bruised, and about to hit the mat.
Let us hope that with the GOP comes Liberty. Let us hope that with that liberty we fix our borders, free our states from the fed, audit the Federal Reserve, and end corporate strangleholds and government monopolies over food processing, banking, industry, and housing. My prayer is that the GOP of 2010 is one of founding principles, small government, and libertarian principles - Goldwater Republicanism. Even more, my hope is that we do a great job as a majority party so that we can continue the libertarian march through 2012 and fix this mess we are in!
Barbara Boxer is also in trouble. The latest debate between incumbent California Democrat Boxer and Republican challenger Fiorina was nothing more than a Boxer mud-slinging fest, trying to defame the successful HP former executive. Boxer's numbers dropped following the debate putting Fiorina ahead for the first time in that race.
Across the nation, not only are Liberal Democrats losing to moderate Republicans, they are losing in droves to Conservative Libertarian Republicans (Liberty Republicans), such as Joe Miller in Alaska, Marco Rubio in Florida, and Rand Paul in Kentucky. Democrats are losing Governorships to staunch Libertarian Conservatives - and Oregon, the longest consecutive held Democratic Governorship in the US, is bearing witness to a massive GOP win in the polls, and an expected GOP win in Nov.
Recent polling also indicates that the GOP will take over the House of Representatives, removing the giant gavel from Pelosi, and replacing many ultra liberals with some very staunch libertarian conservatives.
The Democrats are on the ropes, taking body punch after body punch. They are bloody, bruised, and about to hit the mat.
Let us hope that with the GOP comes Liberty. Let us hope that with that liberty we fix our borders, free our states from the fed, audit the Federal Reserve, and end corporate strangleholds and government monopolies over food processing, banking, industry, and housing. My prayer is that the GOP of 2010 is one of founding principles, small government, and libertarian principles - Goldwater Republicanism. Even more, my hope is that we do a great job as a majority party so that we can continue the libertarian march through 2012 and fix this mess we are in!
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
WA Primary Results - The Right to Vote versus Voting
Washingtonians have cast their votes, and the results are about what one could expect. The Senate race saw Democrat incumbent Murray pulling in considerably less than the 50% needed for victory in November, Dino Rossi (the establishment backed GOP Candidate) grabbing the majority of the Republican votes, and the Tea Party candidates and "also ran" candidates pulling in about 12% at the highest (Clint Didier). With Washington State's 'top two' primary, Murray and Rossi will be the sole names on the ballot for US Senate in Washington state - the top of the 2010 ticket.
WA State voter turnout for the primary was an embarrassing 26%... Iraqi's are facing mortars and shells in order to get the purple finger at rates upward of 80%... yet the country who is dictating their democracy cannot even find 15 minutes to cast their 'all mail-in' ballot. I think the voters here simply do not care anymore... I polled 4 guys with whom I work, all of whom are vocal political commentators at work - yet two of them failed to vote - one said he simply had no opinion about any candidate.
That being said, Rossi, a long time Republican from the Washington State old hats, a centrist Republican (like Scott Brown) will be leading the conservative charge in WA State. In fact, Tea Party candidates did not fare too well here in the Evergreen state... the reason? Political organizing is dismal in this state - last minute notifications, no political dialogue, no forum for debate... you name it, WA state is the land of apathy, not opportunity - for most. What we are faced with is a minority class of active voters trying to push the rope on the other 75% of the state registered voters.
You can lead a politician to Washington, but you can't stop him from spending, right?
We all have the right to vote, yet we continually see a vast majority of our fellow citizens who refuse to lay claim to that right. I am no political scientist, but my best guess has something to do with the 7 minute attention span, the commercialism of our society, and the absolute distraction in all avenues of our existence. With a constant barrage of advertising, reality TV, and the like, it is no wonder that by the time campaign season comes around we couldn't care less (technically 'they' couldn't care less... I couldn't care more!!!) Why worry about voting once for a Senator, I can text the word 'VOTE' to 64752 as many times as I want for my favorite dancer or singer - standard texting rates apply. We have prioritized the important aspects of our free society right out of our lives... and the result is, well, my monologue from above.
Moving forward, onward to November, it is our duty as the active and thinking branch of the voting citizenry to approach our candidates... Force them into dialogue, press the issues... make sure that they understand that just because everyone else has been scrubbed from the ballot in November does not excuse them from public scrutiny from disenchanted members of their own party. We still have the power to shape the debate. We still have the power to reign in our 'establishment' candidates. We still have a voice, a right, a duty to be an active member of this society, and of this government. We are the FIRST PILLAR of the government... WE THE PEOPLE. So easily we forget...
Let us not forget that 2010 is not simply about a transfer of power between party's... it is about a correction to the wrongs committed against the people of this nation, and the contract between WE and the Govt. 2010, and every election henceforth should be an education on the limited power granted to the government BY the people. It should be a reaffirmation of truth and liberty. It should be the final word of the people... that Liberty will always undo tyranny... That the people do take notice... That we choose to be free...
It is my fear, that 75% of the people will not hear this message.
Liberty is obvious to those who can see it... libertas ad oculos!
WA State voter turnout for the primary was an embarrassing 26%... Iraqi's are facing mortars and shells in order to get the purple finger at rates upward of 80%... yet the country who is dictating their democracy cannot even find 15 minutes to cast their 'all mail-in' ballot. I think the voters here simply do not care anymore... I polled 4 guys with whom I work, all of whom are vocal political commentators at work - yet two of them failed to vote - one said he simply had no opinion about any candidate.
That being said, Rossi, a long time Republican from the Washington State old hats, a centrist Republican (like Scott Brown) will be leading the conservative charge in WA State. In fact, Tea Party candidates did not fare too well here in the Evergreen state... the reason? Political organizing is dismal in this state - last minute notifications, no political dialogue, no forum for debate... you name it, WA state is the land of apathy, not opportunity - for most. What we are faced with is a minority class of active voters trying to push the rope on the other 75% of the state registered voters.
You can lead a politician to Washington, but you can't stop him from spending, right?
We all have the right to vote, yet we continually see a vast majority of our fellow citizens who refuse to lay claim to that right. I am no political scientist, but my best guess has something to do with the 7 minute attention span, the commercialism of our society, and the absolute distraction in all avenues of our existence. With a constant barrage of advertising, reality TV, and the like, it is no wonder that by the time campaign season comes around we couldn't care less (technically 'they' couldn't care less... I couldn't care more!!!) Why worry about voting once for a Senator, I can text the word 'VOTE' to 64752 as many times as I want for my favorite dancer or singer - standard texting rates apply. We have prioritized the important aspects of our free society right out of our lives... and the result is, well, my monologue from above.
Moving forward, onward to November, it is our duty as the active and thinking branch of the voting citizenry to approach our candidates... Force them into dialogue, press the issues... make sure that they understand that just because everyone else has been scrubbed from the ballot in November does not excuse them from public scrutiny from disenchanted members of their own party. We still have the power to shape the debate. We still have the power to reign in our 'establishment' candidates. We still have a voice, a right, a duty to be an active member of this society, and of this government. We are the FIRST PILLAR of the government... WE THE PEOPLE. So easily we forget...
Let us not forget that 2010 is not simply about a transfer of power between party's... it is about a correction to the wrongs committed against the people of this nation, and the contract between WE and the Govt. 2010, and every election henceforth should be an education on the limited power granted to the government BY the people. It should be a reaffirmation of truth and liberty. It should be the final word of the people... that Liberty will always undo tyranny... That the people do take notice... That we choose to be free...
It is my fear, that 75% of the people will not hear this message.
Liberty is obvious to those who can see it... libertas ad oculos!
Sunday, July 4, 2010
This, our day of Independence...
The mire of occupation, the treatment as a second class of citizen, the onset of egregious new taxation, and no power to seek honest counsel before the King, the people of the American Colonies were pushed into war. Long had our people endured hardship, but this yoke was too much for the ox to bear. And so, a council of brave men put pen to paper, and before the ink had dried lay down their pens in favor of their muskets. If men on this earth were ever to truly know freedom, this would be the moment that would break down barriers for generations to come.
And so a war was fought. Great men battled the mightiest army and navy the world had ever seen... and won. What was won was not won lightly. With the blood and bone of many a brave soul, the mortar of this country's foundation was mixed. With the sweat and tears of those still living, the foundation was laid - a foundation rooted on a simple concept, that men are naturally free and that free men instinctively resist the shackles of tyranny.
On this, our day of Independence, some 234 years after our freedom was declared and the fate of an entire people put to the test, we are once again faced with tyranny. Free men and women recognize tyranny at its basic existence, but even today in this once free country there is a tyranny so much more oppressive than that beat back by our forefathers. In this country, in our home, grown from our seed, there is an evil that has overtaken the very institutions established after our great war... the institutions so fragile that a mere whisper once could have destroyed them. Now, to the trumpet of the lion's roar, corruption screams through the highest level of government, and tyranny once again befalls our great people.
On this, our day of Independence, remember these words:
Remember that Natural Law dictates that it is man's will to be free, and we should be prepared to spill blood and have our blood spilled in order to secure liberty for ourselves and our posterity.
And remember, on all days as you do today, that freedom, absolute freedom, is the responsibility of every man, woman, and child to maintain. Surrender some freedom and you have put all freedom in jeopardy.
And so a war was fought. Great men battled the mightiest army and navy the world had ever seen... and won. What was won was not won lightly. With the blood and bone of many a brave soul, the mortar of this country's foundation was mixed. With the sweat and tears of those still living, the foundation was laid - a foundation rooted on a simple concept, that men are naturally free and that free men instinctively resist the shackles of tyranny.
On this, our day of Independence, some 234 years after our freedom was declared and the fate of an entire people put to the test, we are once again faced with tyranny. Free men and women recognize tyranny at its basic existence, but even today in this once free country there is a tyranny so much more oppressive than that beat back by our forefathers. In this country, in our home, grown from our seed, there is an evil that has overtaken the very institutions established after our great war... the institutions so fragile that a mere whisper once could have destroyed them. Now, to the trumpet of the lion's roar, corruption screams through the highest level of government, and tyranny once again befalls our great people.
On this, our day of Independence, remember these words:
When in the Course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another, and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation. We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shewn, that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable, than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security.Remember that Government is granted power by the consent of the citizen, though the government of today would have you believe that you are granted certain freedoms at the pleasure of the government.
Remember that Natural Law dictates that it is man's will to be free, and we should be prepared to spill blood and have our blood spilled in order to secure liberty for ourselves and our posterity.
And remember, on all days as you do today, that freedom, absolute freedom, is the responsibility of every man, woman, and child to maintain. Surrender some freedom and you have put all freedom in jeopardy.
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
We Fight Because You Are Here
"All we ask is, to be let alone" The will of a people to self determine, free from outside government's influence over the internal affairs of a group of self governed, is the strongest cause for war in recent history. However, recent increase in central government size and influence has triggered a near collapse of modern society - economically and socially.
The Declaration of Independence proclaimed that it is the right of the people to cast off political ties when the governed are no longer represented. On this basis of thought a war of Independence, the American Revolution, was fought. The Americans wanted the freedom to self govern, with the simple message to the British: All we ask is to be let alone.
During the war between the states, the series of secession from the Union by southern states came as solidarity to the same cause - self determination, free from the dictatorial influence of the growing northern states. Jefferson Davis gave word as to how the north could end the war, simply by going home, when he stated: All we ask is to be let alone.
The push for land and resources through the Midwestern states was met with heavy resistance by the civilizations already living and hunting on these grounds. The Plains Indians sued for peace on many occasions, only to be slapped in the face by the imperialist US Government determined to claim ownership over land and natural wealth by way of 'Manifest Destiny'. As the tribes of the great plains bore witness to mass occupation of their lands and the eradication of their herds, they engaged in the great Indian Wars with the United States. They fought because the US had invaded their sovereign lands, though through treaty upon treaty they promised peace, if only their lands would be let alone.
Arizona fights, through new laws, against Mexico and the inept US government, because the Mexican Civilian population has invaded their sovereign land. All they ask is to be let alone.
Tibet fights against the Chinese government for the continued occupation of their historically native lands. All they ask is to be let alone.
And so goes the story, time and again. A people, a land, a will to be independent is disregarded by another outside entity... and war ensues. Such is the struggle of recent history.
Enter the Palestine issue. The land that was once entirely known as Palestine under British Control was mandated to be split into two entities upon British withdrawal from interest in the land. The United Nations passed a resolution approving the
creation of two states, Israel and Palestine, with full sovereign authority. Shortly after the vote, there were riots in Israel/Palestine, and after British withdrawal there was a full scale invasion by Egypt, Syria, and Jordan in which Israel captured and held defensive positions of lands against outside forces - the difference between the 1947 UN partition lines and the 1949 armistice lines – or roughly the map of Israel as we know it today (with the Gaza Strip and the West Bank). The issue with the Israeli/Palestinian is a little more complex than “All we ask is to be let alone”; however the concept is very much the same: self determination.
Assuming a starting line of 1948, when Israel declared Independence and was subsequently recognized by a plurality of world governments, the intent of the region was a two state division of the land – mutually sovereign governments, laws, and land. The war of 1948-49 was brought about because, where Israel had an organized governmental structure, the Palestinian Arabs were basically ‘claimed’ by foreign kings, thus the kings fought for land. Fast forward this struggle 60 years and though the players may have changed, the maps and issues remain virtually the same.
Today the concern lies with the independent state of Palestine and the right to self determination of her people. There are those extreme views that decry the existence of Israel and call for her destruction, however, peace is never found in extremism, rather in moderation. It is in moderation where cooler heads can prevail.
Let us use the analogy used above – we fight because you are here – and compare it to tribal lands in the United States. During US expansion treaties were signed strictly defining US territory and Tribal territory. Through settlement and military action in support of white settlers the tribes were drawn into war, time and again, to defend their sovereign and treaty protected land. The Supreme Court, in 1980, ruled that the use of military force and settlement of the Sioux lands was in violation of the treaty of Fort Laramie.
The US Justice system determined that treaty defined lines should protect from settlement of another’s sovereign land. As the “last best hope” for humankind, one would have to at least surrender themselves to some logic and reasoning of the United States.
This brings me to a conclusion – that the United States’ silent alliance with Israel is in direct violation of the lessons already learned through bloodshed on our own land. The continued silence and inaction over increased settlement of one nation by the other is in violation of US law as well as UN law. The people of the Palestinian state should be given the freedom of self determination and sovereignty. As well, the natural tendency to resist occupation of Palestinian sovereign lands (as defined by the 1949/1967 armistice lines) can only be expected by a people who simply want to be left alone.
*this does not include the Gaza problem where Hamas maintains a political platform of absolute destruction of Israel... this is extremism, and there is no way to peace but through reason and moderation.
The Declaration of Independence proclaimed that it is the right of the people to cast off political ties when the governed are no longer represented. On this basis of thought a war of Independence, the American Revolution, was fought. The Americans wanted the freedom to self govern, with the simple message to the British: All we ask is to be let alone.
During the war between the states, the series of secession from the Union by southern states came as solidarity to the same cause - self determination, free from the dictatorial influence of the growing northern states. Jefferson Davis gave word as to how the north could end the war, simply by going home, when he stated: All we ask is to be let alone.
The push for land and resources through the Midwestern states was met with heavy resistance by the civilizations already living and hunting on these grounds. The Plains Indians sued for peace on many occasions, only to be slapped in the face by the imperialist US Government determined to claim ownership over land and natural wealth by way of 'Manifest Destiny'. As the tribes of the great plains bore witness to mass occupation of their lands and the eradication of their herds, they engaged in the great Indian Wars with the United States. They fought because the US had invaded their sovereign lands, though through treaty upon treaty they promised peace, if only their lands would be let alone.
Arizona fights, through new laws, against Mexico and the inept US government, because the Mexican Civilian population has invaded their sovereign land. All they ask is to be let alone.
Tibet fights against the Chinese government for the continued occupation of their historically native lands. All they ask is to be let alone.
And so goes the story, time and again. A people, a land, a will to be independent is disregarded by another outside entity... and war ensues. Such is the struggle of recent history.
Enter the Palestine issue. The land that was once entirely known as Palestine under British Control was mandated to be split into two entities upon British withdrawal from interest in the land. The United Nations passed a resolution approving the
creation of two states, Israel and Palestine, with full sovereign authority. Shortly after the vote, there were riots in Israel/Palestine, and after British withdrawal there was a full scale invasion by Egypt, Syria, and Jordan in which Israel captured and held defensive positions of lands against outside forces - the difference between the 1947 UN partition lines and the 1949 armistice lines – or roughly the map of Israel as we know it today (with the Gaza Strip and the West Bank). The issue with the Israeli/Palestinian is a little more complex than “All we ask is to be let alone”; however the concept is very much the same: self determination.
Assuming a starting line of 1948, when Israel declared Independence and was subsequently recognized by a plurality of world governments, the intent of the region was a two state division of the land – mutually sovereign governments, laws, and land. The war of 1948-49 was brought about because, where Israel had an organized governmental structure, the Palestinian Arabs were basically ‘claimed’ by foreign kings, thus the kings fought for land. Fast forward this struggle 60 years and though the players may have changed, the maps and issues remain virtually the same.
Today the concern lies with the independent state of Palestine and the right to self determination of her people. There are those extreme views that decry the existence of Israel and call for her destruction, however, peace is never found in extremism, rather in moderation. It is in moderation where cooler heads can prevail.
Let us use the analogy used above – we fight because you are here – and compare it to tribal lands in the United States. During US expansion treaties were signed strictly defining US territory and Tribal territory. Through settlement and military action in support of white settlers the tribes were drawn into war, time and again, to defend their sovereign and treaty protected land. The Supreme Court, in 1980, ruled that the use of military force and settlement of the Sioux lands was in violation of the treaty of Fort Laramie.
The US Justice system determined that treaty defined lines should protect from settlement of another’s sovereign land. As the “last best hope” for humankind, one would have to at least surrender themselves to some logic and reasoning of the United States.This brings me to a conclusion – that the United States’ silent alliance with Israel is in direct violation of the lessons already learned through bloodshed on our own land. The continued silence and inaction over increased settlement of one nation by the other is in violation of US law as well as UN law. The people of the Palestinian state should be given the freedom of self determination and sovereignty. As well, the natural tendency to resist occupation of Palestinian sovereign lands (as defined by the 1949/1967 armistice lines) can only be expected by a people who simply want to be left alone.
*this does not include the Gaza problem where Hamas maintains a political platform of absolute destruction of Israel... this is extremism, and there is no way to peace but through reason and moderation.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Libertas ad Oculos
Some may have noticed that a few months back I updated my banner image to include a slight image change and added a fuzzy latin phrase: libertas ad oculus. Not being a latin major, or one who pretends to generally understand latin, I began looking into strong latin phrases which summarized the struggle for liberty over tyranny. There were the common "Thus always to Tyrants" and such, but nothing little known that really stood out.
And then I came across a random and obscure phrase - 'ad oculos', meaning 'evident to those who can see', loosely. And I thought to myself how unique and true this is in regards to liberty... libertas ad oculos... Liberty is obvious to those who see it.
It is a phrase that I pieced together which perfectly defined my frustration with the current struggle in this country with our ruling elite and their mob of merry followers. We see the founding documents, the constitution, and understand the inspiration of true individual liberty in the formation of this country... it is so obvious to our kind that we often repeat ourselves to the point of madness, always asking 'what is so hard to understand'...
The answer is that they simply do not see it... they either cannot or choose not to see liberty. They refuse to understand or acknowledge that with a little personal responsibility and self determination, people actually CAN succeed without a nanny state, social welfare programs, etc. They do not see that if left to our good nature, communities would grow stronger in their mutual security, grow prosperous in their mutual innovation, and grow more generous in their mutual (and voluntary) welfare toward our fellow man. People, I believe, who are given the chance to excel will follow their good nature and strengthen their family and community. However, to those who do not see it fear that the repealing of social programs or nanny security state regulations will lead to mass chaos, death, etc. They fear what they cannot understand, and do not understand what they cannot see... Liberty.
They cannot see liberty, and so they fight steadily for something else entirely... something historically familiar... Something tyrannical. It will, as history has repeatedly shown, rest at the hands of those who can see and understand liberty to free the people from servitude to their kings, and restore faith in human ingenuity and goodness.
And then I came across a random and obscure phrase - 'ad oculos', meaning 'evident to those who can see', loosely. And I thought to myself how unique and true this is in regards to liberty... libertas ad oculos... Liberty is obvious to those who see it.
It is a phrase that I pieced together which perfectly defined my frustration with the current struggle in this country with our ruling elite and their mob of merry followers. We see the founding documents, the constitution, and understand the inspiration of true individual liberty in the formation of this country... it is so obvious to our kind that we often repeat ourselves to the point of madness, always asking 'what is so hard to understand'...
The answer is that they simply do not see it... they either cannot or choose not to see liberty. They refuse to understand or acknowledge that with a little personal responsibility and self determination, people actually CAN succeed without a nanny state, social welfare programs, etc. They do not see that if left to our good nature, communities would grow stronger in their mutual security, grow prosperous in their mutual innovation, and grow more generous in their mutual (and voluntary) welfare toward our fellow man. People, I believe, who are given the chance to excel will follow their good nature and strengthen their family and community. However, to those who do not see it fear that the repealing of social programs or nanny security state regulations will lead to mass chaos, death, etc. They fear what they cannot understand, and do not understand what they cannot see... Liberty.
They cannot see liberty, and so they fight steadily for something else entirely... something historically familiar... Something tyrannical. It will, as history has repeatedly shown, rest at the hands of those who can see and understand liberty to free the people from servitude to their kings, and restore faith in human ingenuity and goodness.
Monday, April 19, 2010
Human Rights, Liberty, and Europe
On a side note, the EU is attempting to declare that 'vacation' is a human right, and one that should be subsidized by the government of the EU. Before I delve into the insanity at work here, I HAVE to hope that the Federal Government doesn't catch wind of this... might give them ideas!
Human rights are those things without which we are unable to realize our fullest potential. The right to life, being the most basic - without which we would cease to simply be. The right to freedom from oppression - without which we could not freely pursue success. The right, of course, to freely pursue success however you so choose to define it. There are many rights that have been bestowed upon us, all supporting a common theme: Equal Opportunity. A just and civil society must allow equal opportunity to all members, an equal opportunity at life, to achieve, to attempt... this, however, should not be confused with equal outcome.
The concept of equal outcome is the antithesis of liberty, the destabilization of a free and just society, the advocacy for increased control of the individual. From taxing success for wealth redistribution to dictating health and education of the poor, the ever expanding government strives for equal outcome under the assumption that the people simply cannot survive without their intervention.
What is happening in Europe is not a comedy, rather a tragedy. The unification of Europe under an increasingly socialistist wealth redistribution mindset is the great end to independent European societies, but also the single largest driver for future wars in Europe. Regional battles for Independence from tyranny historically follow the conquest of lands at some point down the road. Europe beat back the offenses of nationalistic socialism, but has succumbed to globalistic socialism, the second hand of the same beast. They are an indicator for what is to come in America, especially when our unrepresentative leaders strive in every avenue to emulate Europe.
There can be peace on this world outside of absolute government control. Pax Romana is no longer necessary. Common objectives can be sought that unite the peoples of many lands. The move toward global socialistic conquest has been attempted before, and each time war has been the outcome. Peace under threat of force is no peace... Liberty under the watchful eye of the government is not liberty, and government funded personal benefits are no human right!
Human rights are those things without which we are unable to realize our fullest potential. The right to life, being the most basic - without which we would cease to simply be. The right to freedom from oppression - without which we could not freely pursue success. The right, of course, to freely pursue success however you so choose to define it. There are many rights that have been bestowed upon us, all supporting a common theme: Equal Opportunity. A just and civil society must allow equal opportunity to all members, an equal opportunity at life, to achieve, to attempt... this, however, should not be confused with equal outcome.
The concept of equal outcome is the antithesis of liberty, the destabilization of a free and just society, the advocacy for increased control of the individual. From taxing success for wealth redistribution to dictating health and education of the poor, the ever expanding government strives for equal outcome under the assumption that the people simply cannot survive without their intervention.
What is happening in Europe is not a comedy, rather a tragedy. The unification of Europe under an increasingly socialistist wealth redistribution mindset is the great end to independent European societies, but also the single largest driver for future wars in Europe. Regional battles for Independence from tyranny historically follow the conquest of lands at some point down the road. Europe beat back the offenses of nationalistic socialism, but has succumbed to globalistic socialism, the second hand of the same beast. They are an indicator for what is to come in America, especially when our unrepresentative leaders strive in every avenue to emulate Europe.
There can be peace on this world outside of absolute government control. Pax Romana is no longer necessary. Common objectives can be sought that unite the peoples of many lands. The move toward global socialistic conquest has been attempted before, and each time war has been the outcome. Peace under threat of force is no peace... Liberty under the watchful eye of the government is not liberty, and government funded personal benefits are no human right!
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Tea Partiers are More Educated and Angrier than the Average American
The New York Times, as reported by MSNBC, has let the cat out of the bag about the redneck racist revolutionaries running and supporting the tea party: "Tea party supporters are wealthier and more well-educated than the general public, tend to be Republican, white, male, and married, and their strong opposition to the Obama administration is more rooted in political ideology than anxiety about their personal economic situation"
Does this mean that the liberal left is going to stop pushing the 'Racist Tea Party' talking points, or the 'uneducated gun toting redneck' talking points? Most likely not.
Though they, being the left, fail to see the irony in the educated leaders of this country revolting in general angst over the direction of the federal government, they can no longer ignore us!
Recent polling indicates that more people identify with the tea party movement than with the direction Obama is taking the country. More people align with the policies of the Tea Partiers, the policies of liberty, than with the leftist agenda in D.C. And the liberal left is grudgingly reporting these as "surprising results" - surprising because we have been ridiculed as racist idiotic rednecks for over a year now... The truth shall set you free!
I proudly identify with the liberty movement in America. I am a proud advocate for limited government and responsible local government. I think that a great political awakening is beginning to take place, and that folks are starting to see that the change for change's sake is bad, simply supporting the lesser of two evils is worse, and politics as usual is simply no longer acceptable.
Vive La Liberte!
Does this mean that the liberal left is going to stop pushing the 'Racist Tea Party' talking points, or the 'uneducated gun toting redneck' talking points? Most likely not.
Though they, being the left, fail to see the irony in the educated leaders of this country revolting in general angst over the direction of the federal government, they can no longer ignore us!
Recent polling indicates that more people identify with the tea party movement than with the direction Obama is taking the country. More people align with the policies of the Tea Partiers, the policies of liberty, than with the leftist agenda in D.C. And the liberal left is grudgingly reporting these as "surprising results" - surprising because we have been ridiculed as racist idiotic rednecks for over a year now... The truth shall set you free!
I proudly identify with the liberty movement in America. I am a proud advocate for limited government and responsible local government. I think that a great political awakening is beginning to take place, and that folks are starting to see that the change for change's sake is bad, simply supporting the lesser of two evils is worse, and politics as usual is simply no longer acceptable.
Vive La Liberte!
Thursday, April 8, 2010
White House Considers National Sales Tax
"White House economic adviser Paul Volcker said yesterday the United States should consider imposing a "value added tax" similar to those charged in Europe to help get the deficit under control. "Just weeks after signing into law an unconstitutional Trillion Dollar health care system, the White House is looking for ways to start making up for their spending habits... and the answer is: Rob the People!
Instead of looking at their spending habits as the root cause of the deficit problem, they explore ways to bridge the gap in income - typical government! Spend into oblivion then tax the people to death!
Enough is Enough... that is a common theme these days, and for a good reason!
In what universe is the federal government living? Do they actually believe that a European style national sales tax is right for America? Of course they do! And the universe, well, it must be a parallel one in which the wealthy senators and representatives are ruling from their marble palaces in DC, out of touch with all the peasants of the nation... oh wait, that sounds a lot like this one.
At what point do we just push our local state governments into rejecting any new federal taxation, or simply challenging the federal government directly on legitimate constitutional grounds across the board? We simply cannot afford this union under the direction of this federal government. The state leadership has got to step up and say it for the people - 'Enough Taxes, Enough Spending, and Enough Constitutionally Questionable Maneuvers from the tiny District of Washington!"
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
In Bremerton, WA, Liberty is for the Birds (Or Chickens)
In Washington State, in a small city across the water from Seattle, the battle for liberty comes down to one word: "Cluck"
Bremerton City Council has taken maneuvers to effectively outlaw laying hens within the city limit. This move impacts dozens of families within the limits of the city who have small flocks of a few birds, used mainly for weed control and fresh egg production. The city councilmen have cited their concern over hiring a new city employee to be the city's watchful eye on backyard chicken farmers.
In comparison, the large city of Seattle allows for up to four laying hens.
The concern of the Bremerton town council is unfounded. Citizens should have the right to raise non-invasive livestock, such as hens, and should be expected to act within the bounds of community sanity. Obviously a large flock on a small property could be considered a nuisance, however, it is not the responsibility of town councils to limit what food sources we choose and what productive livestock we keep - within reason.
There have been calls to allow four hens, but to require a license on each of your hens. I am also opposed to this, as licensing would then require additional license enforcement, as well as establish precedent to licensing other forms of livestock in outlying farms that remain within the city limits.
The philosophy is simple - allow freedom where freedom is logical. To question a community's want or will to raise egg laying hens is one thing, but to restrict the right to raise food producing livestock - that seems to be outside of the scope of government. It would make more sense to ban cats and dogs - who spread ring worms and other diseases to humans on a much larger scale, as well as cause flea infestations in rental and other properties... Dogs and cats are found wondering the streets and neighborhoods and have been known to attack or harass neighborhoods... I can build a much larger case for community safety - however, I believe that people should be held to a higher standard, and given the opportunity to live free and succeed.
So, here in rural Washington, it seems like freedom is, in this case, for the birds!
Bremerton City Council has taken maneuvers to effectively outlaw laying hens within the city limit. This move impacts dozens of families within the limits of the city who have small flocks of a few birds, used mainly for weed control and fresh egg production. The city councilmen have cited their concern over hiring a new city employee to be the city's watchful eye on backyard chicken farmers.
In comparison, the large city of Seattle allows for up to four laying hens.
The concern of the Bremerton town council is unfounded. Citizens should have the right to raise non-invasive livestock, such as hens, and should be expected to act within the bounds of community sanity. Obviously a large flock on a small property could be considered a nuisance, however, it is not the responsibility of town councils to limit what food sources we choose and what productive livestock we keep - within reason.
There have been calls to allow four hens, but to require a license on each of your hens. I am also opposed to this, as licensing would then require additional license enforcement, as well as establish precedent to licensing other forms of livestock in outlying farms that remain within the city limits.
The philosophy is simple - allow freedom where freedom is logical. To question a community's want or will to raise egg laying hens is one thing, but to restrict the right to raise food producing livestock - that seems to be outside of the scope of government. It would make more sense to ban cats and dogs - who spread ring worms and other diseases to humans on a much larger scale, as well as cause flea infestations in rental and other properties... Dogs and cats are found wondering the streets and neighborhoods and have been known to attack or harass neighborhoods... I can build a much larger case for community safety - however, I believe that people should be held to a higher standard, and given the opportunity to live free and succeed.
So, here in rural Washington, it seems like freedom is, in this case, for the birds!
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Federal Government Ignores Chaos at Southern Border
Thousands of illegals continue to flow into the United States across the Mexican/US border on a daily basis - carrying with them drugs, disease, poverty, and an agenda. The United States, after an uproar in 2005 and 2006 over illegals in the US, is still unresponsive - and promises to complete a border fence simply have not been kept. It seems that the United States Federal Government may also have an agenda - but what and why?
With the murder over the weekend of a US citizen by a Mexican drug trafficker, you would expect a media blitz on illegal immigration... you would expect public outcry over the incident... you would expect a statement from the federal government regarding the sanctity of our borders... However, we are getting none of this. There is a near media black-out on this issue, and the Federal Government is remaining silent on their faults leading up to the murder.
Alas, there is a beacon of hope in the media - FoxNews... better late than never, and again filling an agenda of their own - highlighting the further frustration by the border state governments regarding the lack of assistance from the Feds on the promised border security... Let's take the bait and further this discussion, because it is relevant and important to the general message and tone of this blog.
The Federal Government is a collection of representatives from the multitude of states and territories... when they fail to represent, the states are left to fill the void - independent local authority. The increasing chaos along the US southern border leaves the states in a predicament: ignore the problem and wait for the Feds to finally kick into gear, or defend their STATE SOVEREIGN BORDERS? The answer is clear in my eyes.
The United States Government has become a corrupt and failed entity, failing to poses the basic ability or will to defend her own borders. The failure of the US in this avenue is the surest sign that the United States is failing, has failed, or intends to fail as a sovereign entity.
As such, it is time that the multitude of states declare the ineptitude of the current government, and begin taking actions to protect their own sovereign borders. This can only be accomplished by recalling all State Militia (national guard) troops from overseas, and deploying them as active military units along the international borders. Mexico, her people, and her criminal underground have declared a war against the states of the union, the people of the states, and our sovereignty. When the federal government fails to defend the land, the responsibility rests solely with the people and the states.
We should support and defend the governments in the states of Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California to call forward their OWN national Guard Troops (as they are the Commander in Chief of the State Militias), and move to defend their southern borders. It may be an international border, and thus the responsibility of the Federal Government - but it is also a right of each state to defend their borders against invasion.
Let this be yet another testament to the strength of the states and the people, and another shortfall of the out of touch dictators in D.C.
With the murder over the weekend of a US citizen by a Mexican drug trafficker, you would expect a media blitz on illegal immigration... you would expect public outcry over the incident... you would expect a statement from the federal government regarding the sanctity of our borders... However, we are getting none of this. There is a near media black-out on this issue, and the Federal Government is remaining silent on their faults leading up to the murder.
Alas, there is a beacon of hope in the media - FoxNews... better late than never, and again filling an agenda of their own - highlighting the further frustration by the border state governments regarding the lack of assistance from the Feds on the promised border security... Let's take the bait and further this discussion, because it is relevant and important to the general message and tone of this blog.
The Federal Government is a collection of representatives from the multitude of states and territories... when they fail to represent, the states are left to fill the void - independent local authority. The increasing chaos along the US southern border leaves the states in a predicament: ignore the problem and wait for the Feds to finally kick into gear, or defend their STATE SOVEREIGN BORDERS? The answer is clear in my eyes.
The United States Government has become a corrupt and failed entity, failing to poses the basic ability or will to defend her own borders. The failure of the US in this avenue is the surest sign that the United States is failing, has failed, or intends to fail as a sovereign entity.
As such, it is time that the multitude of states declare the ineptitude of the current government, and begin taking actions to protect their own sovereign borders. This can only be accomplished by recalling all State Militia (national guard) troops from overseas, and deploying them as active military units along the international borders. Mexico, her people, and her criminal underground have declared a war against the states of the union, the people of the states, and our sovereignty. When the federal government fails to defend the land, the responsibility rests solely with the people and the states.
Gov. Jan Brewer told Fox News on Wednesday that after repeatedly calling on the
federal government to send in 250 National Guard troops, she hasn't ruled out
making the call herself.
We should support and defend the governments in the states of Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California to call forward their OWN national Guard Troops (as they are the Commander in Chief of the State Militias), and move to defend their southern borders. It may be an international border, and thus the responsibility of the Federal Government - but it is also a right of each state to defend their borders against invasion.
Let this be yet another testament to the strength of the states and the people, and another shortfall of the out of touch dictators in D.C.
Monday, March 29, 2010
Recall 'em All!
While watching the latest edition of 'The Southern Avenger', which addressed the justification for nullification from a Jeffersonian perspective, I had an interesting idea: What if we didn't just nullify, but ordered to recall our representation to the US Senate and Congress?
Now, there was a time prior to the 17th amendment, when the Senators were the representation of the States, and were elected by the state's legislature. Unfortunately the 17th amendment reduced state's sovereignty and representation in the federal government by making them nothing more than long-term congressmen... However, it seems to me that history has proven this an effective strategy at curtailing powers overreached by the federal government.
It seems to me that under the 9th and 10th amendments, the states retain the rights to recall their federally elected officials. Furthermore, 18 states ( Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Idaho, Kansas, Louisiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, Nevada, New Jersey, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, Washington and Wisconsin) currently maintain law in accordance with the recall of federally elected officials. Be it by the will of the people or the power of the government, one could then assume that all states DO, in fact, retain the rights to recall their elected federal officials.
Now - grounds for recall? Supporting the unconstitutional bill of national healthcare, backroom dealings, etc that are evidence of corruption and gross misconduct while holding the People's Seats!
Any thoughts?
(here is the latest from the Southern Avenger)
Now, there was a time prior to the 17th amendment, when the Senators were the representation of the States, and were elected by the state's legislature. Unfortunately the 17th amendment reduced state's sovereignty and representation in the federal government by making them nothing more than long-term congressmen... However, it seems to me that history has proven this an effective strategy at curtailing powers overreached by the federal government.
It seems to me that under the 9th and 10th amendments, the states retain the rights to recall their federally elected officials. Furthermore, 18 states ( Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Idaho, Kansas, Louisiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, Nevada, New Jersey, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, Washington and Wisconsin) currently maintain law in accordance with the recall of federally elected officials. Be it by the will of the people or the power of the government, one could then assume that all states DO, in fact, retain the rights to recall their elected federal officials.
Now - grounds for recall? Supporting the unconstitutional bill of national healthcare, backroom dealings, etc that are evidence of corruption and gross misconduct while holding the People's Seats!
Any thoughts?
(here is the latest from the Southern Avenger)
Thursday, March 25, 2010
The Era of Terror
In the wake of the Healthcare vote, the fundamental change between government and the subjects of the government, there have been about ten reports of mild violence aimed at Congressional figures, both Democratic and Republican. From threatening letters to bricks, and the now reported bullet hole in a Republican Congressman's office window, there has been a rash of mild violence as Americans find themselves at their wits end with such a radical and fundamental shift in the structure of our government.
Do I condone violence against elected leaders? No.
Do I understand? Sure I do.
No action is meaningless. Such actions seem to be misplaced acts of aggression in the build up of tension between the people and the government... but one thing is certain - they are not, as the Democratic Majority Whip declared, 'acts of terror'! They are criminal acts that echo the mounting frustration by citizens that the congress and the federal government in general are out of control.
I had previously questioned the use of the term "terror", as Homeland Security released their updated briefing last year ahead of the Tea Parties, classifying members of the Tea Party as 'potential terrorists' or 'likely terrorists'. It seems that criminal acts of violence classify as 'acts of terrorism' when there is political gain by the victim in the media, and thus a sympathetic ear by the consumer subject of the union.
The labelling of "terrorist" marginalizes a message while emotionalizing, and as such confusing, the facts on the ground. It is true in the battlefields of Iraq and Afghanistan as much as it is here in the United States:
* A terrorist is one who targets civilians for the purpose of mass emotional response for political gain.
* An insurgent is one who fights a standing army or leaders of an occupying force by guerrilla tactics.
* A criminal is one who breaks the law in threats and attacks on political figures or private citizens.
I warned that as tensions escalated in the United States, as the battle lines were defined between the subjects and the citizens, that the power of persuasion by mass emotional manipulation would be the most effective and widely used tool. As many are reporting now, it is the intent of the left to insight 60's style liberal violence by the right in order to marginalize our counter position... We are witness to the yet another tactic of the left in their aggressive onslaught of liberty by continued manipulation of the masses!
Reject the wrongful and emotional classification of 'terrorism' given to these criminal acts. Take the fight to the states and courts, and push local government to support sovereignty and nullification actions. Tear the curtains off the windows of the liberal leftists doghouse through legal avenues... reject their policies to the core. And most importantly, call them out on their wrongful and emotional attempts at mass manipulation in the wake of their tragic miscalculation!
Do I condone violence against elected leaders? No.
Do I understand? Sure I do.
No action is meaningless. Such actions seem to be misplaced acts of aggression in the build up of tension between the people and the government... but one thing is certain - they are not, as the Democratic Majority Whip declared, 'acts of terror'! They are criminal acts that echo the mounting frustration by citizens that the congress and the federal government in general are out of control.
I had previously questioned the use of the term "terror", as Homeland Security released their updated briefing last year ahead of the Tea Parties, classifying members of the Tea Party as 'potential terrorists' or 'likely terrorists'. It seems that criminal acts of violence classify as 'acts of terrorism' when there is political gain by the victim in the media, and thus a sympathetic ear by the consumer subject of the union.
The labelling of "terrorist" marginalizes a message while emotionalizing, and as such confusing, the facts on the ground. It is true in the battlefields of Iraq and Afghanistan as much as it is here in the United States:
* A terrorist is one who targets civilians for the purpose of mass emotional response for political gain.
* An insurgent is one who fights a standing army or leaders of an occupying force by guerrilla tactics.
* A criminal is one who breaks the law in threats and attacks on political figures or private citizens.
I warned that as tensions escalated in the United States, as the battle lines were defined between the subjects and the citizens, that the power of persuasion by mass emotional manipulation would be the most effective and widely used tool. As many are reporting now, it is the intent of the left to insight 60's style liberal violence by the right in order to marginalize our counter position... We are witness to the yet another tactic of the left in their aggressive onslaught of liberty by continued manipulation of the masses!
Reject the wrongful and emotional classification of 'terrorism' given to these criminal acts. Take the fight to the states and courts, and push local government to support sovereignty and nullification actions. Tear the curtains off the windows of the liberal leftists doghouse through legal avenues... reject their policies to the core. And most importantly, call them out on their wrongful and emotional attempts at mass manipulation in the wake of their tragic miscalculation!
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Two Americas
"Healthcare is a right," they say. A right, they truly believe, that the government should provide "free of charge" to every man, woman, and child - citizenship not required. Any human being in the world, they think, should be able to come to this nation and receive free healthcare. Free health services. Free, at the cost of the wealthy. Alas, as consumer subjects of the People's Republic of America, it is our right to steal from the wealthy, the ambitious, the innovative... to pay... for 'free' healthcare... for all... because healthcare is a right to which all humans are entitled... so they say.
There was a time in the history of this country when a man could leave his European (or otherworldly) home, come to America, and turn true grit into success. This was the American Dream. Leave behind the authoritarian constricting governments of the world in search of a free land, where ambition and innovation were worn like badges of honor... where no man, even in a depression, would dare be seen begging for hand-outs - rather he could be found looking for work... a way to feed and protect his family. There was a time when the nation was home to a specific lot, a mindset of personal responsibility... for the self.
In this generation, however, that dream is dead. Ambition and innovation is the exception, and no longer the rule. We have allowed ourselves, en masse, to be deceived - to believe that we are a wealthy nation, when we are in fact bankrupt; that we are a free nation, when we are in fact very limited in our existence; and that the federal government is our provider, when in fact the constitution would suggest otherwise. An abomination has crept into the walls of Troy, has opened the gates, and before our eyes is destroying the very Republic bestowed upon us by our founding fathers... an abomination that we, the people, have welcomed and celebrated... the pillaging of the treasury, the corruption of liberty, and the destruction of virtue - all to the sound of cheers and laughter. We have been deceived, and so we have been conquered.
Hope is not lost, however, but the solution does not come without a heavy burden. There are two Americas: those who hold fast that a virtuous people shall be the masters of their own fate, and those who believe that, at all costs, the people are entitled to health and happiness. I remind you that the Declaration of Independence firmly stated that men were guaranteed certain inalienable rights - that among these were Life, Liberty, and the PURSUIT of Happiness... The pursuit of happiness... Happiness is not a guarantee... Health is not a guarantee... it cannot be given to you, by the government, at anothers expense. YOU must Pursue it. YOU must make the journey, and take the responsibility for your own health, your own happiness. There are two Americas. They are mutually exclusive. One cannot survive in the presence of the other. The solution is simply to cast aside one mindset over the other. Cast aside liberty, or cast aside slavery.
The choice is simple. Supporting liberty, in the spirit of our founding fathers, is the only hope in restoring America to a nation of greatness... to a nation of virtue.
Support liberty. Join in the struggle to not simply make a party change in the government, but to fundamentally correct the course of this nation! Take back the state houses. Take back the school boards. Take back the counties and the cities. Use the power of the states to take back the power from the federal government and return it to the people and the states!
There was a time in the history of this country when a man could leave his European (or otherworldly) home, come to America, and turn true grit into success. This was the American Dream. Leave behind the authoritarian constricting governments of the world in search of a free land, where ambition and innovation were worn like badges of honor... where no man, even in a depression, would dare be seen begging for hand-outs - rather he could be found looking for work... a way to feed and protect his family. There was a time when the nation was home to a specific lot, a mindset of personal responsibility... for the self.
In this generation, however, that dream is dead. Ambition and innovation is the exception, and no longer the rule. We have allowed ourselves, en masse, to be deceived - to believe that we are a wealthy nation, when we are in fact bankrupt; that we are a free nation, when we are in fact very limited in our existence; and that the federal government is our provider, when in fact the constitution would suggest otherwise. An abomination has crept into the walls of Troy, has opened the gates, and before our eyes is destroying the very Republic bestowed upon us by our founding fathers... an abomination that we, the people, have welcomed and celebrated... the pillaging of the treasury, the corruption of liberty, and the destruction of virtue - all to the sound of cheers and laughter. We have been deceived, and so we have been conquered.
Hope is not lost, however, but the solution does not come without a heavy burden. There are two Americas: those who hold fast that a virtuous people shall be the masters of their own fate, and those who believe that, at all costs, the people are entitled to health and happiness. I remind you that the Declaration of Independence firmly stated that men were guaranteed certain inalienable rights - that among these were Life, Liberty, and the PURSUIT of Happiness... The pursuit of happiness... Happiness is not a guarantee... Health is not a guarantee... it cannot be given to you, by the government, at anothers expense. YOU must Pursue it. YOU must make the journey, and take the responsibility for your own health, your own happiness. There are two Americas. They are mutually exclusive. One cannot survive in the presence of the other. The solution is simply to cast aside one mindset over the other. Cast aside liberty, or cast aside slavery.
The choice is simple. Supporting liberty, in the spirit of our founding fathers, is the only hope in restoring America to a nation of greatness... to a nation of virtue.
Support liberty. Join in the struggle to not simply make a party change in the government, but to fundamentally correct the course of this nation! Take back the state houses. Take back the school boards. Take back the counties and the cities. Use the power of the states to take back the power from the federal government and return it to the people and the states!
Monday, March 22, 2010
Turn to the States!
Unrepresentative Arrogance... two words which describe the push of "Obamacare" through the chambers of Congress - put into pictures it is Pelosi carrying a giant gavel, as if saying: "I AM THE LAW!"The medicare gavel, a poor choice of representation of such a "zero impact" bill - but I digress.
The states hold the power in this union... at least they used to, and can once again. From Virginia, to Florida, to Idaho, State Attorney Generals are preparing to battle the federal government in court over the constitutionality associated with mandating, from a federal level, that the private citizens of a state purchase a good or service. Moments after Obama signs the Bill into law, the courts will be flooded with suits and counter suits that will tie up legislation for years.
But this is a double barrelled assault! States, such as Washington via House Bill HB2712, are ensuring increased power at the state level in a most ingenious way! This bill would allow the state of Washington to create an Escrow fund that ALL federal taxes would be paid into by the residents of the state of Washington. The state board in control of the account would determine what is constitutionally due the federal government from the plurality of the residents of the state, and provide a lump sum on behalf of the people of the state. In doing so, the board could deem any amount intended to cover "Obamacare" nullified, and as a state, challenge the federal government's authority to collect that portion of taxes.
When in doubt, turn to the local and state governments! It is there where the power of the people resides! If the states are corrupt and cowardly, you will go farther in local and state elections, and have a better chance of turning over weak elected officials than entrenched incumbents at the federal level... until, perhaps, they realize (as they are sure to do) that the power does, in fact, reside at the state level!
So, be not dismayed! Turn to the 2010 election and support your state representatives who are in favor of state's rights, nullification, and LIBERTY!
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
The US Identity Crisis
The federal government intends to pass trillion dollar fundamental changes without a vote, and the President is OK with that? What part of 'support and defend the constitution' is so hard to understand?
Meanwhile the census forms arrived yesterday asking me which variety of Hispanic I am... let's just say that there is a box around question number one for a reason... it is the only constitutionally required information... everything else is voluntary - and highly inappropriate, might I add...
And at the state level we have a government cutting ferries to improve schedule, going into a costly special session to balance the budget, and enacting laws prohibiting the movement of any livestock on the roads without a special permit (even if you buy them at the feed store, yes, you need to first obtain a special permit before you can drive 'em home).
This is NOT the land of the free...
This has become some horribly disfigured version of a national empire with absolute authoritarian control over her people...
What worth am I, therefore, if I don't walk straight up to Uncle Sam and remind him with smack in the face and a few head dunks in the barrel of cold water that he is more than he has become... that we all are more than we have allowed ourselves and our land to become... what worth are any of us if we do not see this identity crisis, this false America that has been built around us... like prison walls...
like prison walls...
Meanwhile the census forms arrived yesterday asking me which variety of Hispanic I am... let's just say that there is a box around question number one for a reason... it is the only constitutionally required information... everything else is voluntary - and highly inappropriate, might I add...
And at the state level we have a government cutting ferries to improve schedule, going into a costly special session to balance the budget, and enacting laws prohibiting the movement of any livestock on the roads without a special permit (even if you buy them at the feed store, yes, you need to first obtain a special permit before you can drive 'em home).
This is NOT the land of the free...
This has become some horribly disfigured version of a national empire with absolute authoritarian control over her people...
What worth am I, therefore, if I don't walk straight up to Uncle Sam and remind him with smack in the face and a few head dunks in the barrel of cold water that he is more than he has become... that we all are more than we have allowed ourselves and our land to become... what worth are any of us if we do not see this identity crisis, this false America that has been built around us... like prison walls...
like prison walls...
Monday, March 15, 2010
The United States Officially "Mostly Free"
How 'free' are we in the United States? We are a country whose people thrives on the very concept of living in the 'land of the free'... What effect would be felt if we were living in the land of the 'mostly free'?
Most likely none, as the pomp and circumstance associated with nationalistic pride outweighs the actual facts on the ground.
The Heritage Foundation's Index of Economic Freedom for 2010 shows the United States falling to 8th place, and for the first time EVER, out of the standing as a "free" economic society to a "mostly free" society - joining such countries as Bahrain, Cyprus, Georgia, Botswana, and Chile. That is right. The Leader of the Free World has been demoted to a second rate economic society, ranking slightly higher than Mexico (who is gaining much economic traction on the world stage, though currently "moderately free") and, yes, ranking lower than Canada (who is classified as "economically free").
In our lifetime, and under the charging banner of the Federal Government of these many states, the United States has officially surrendered her freedom, losing rank and credibility both regionally and throughout the world.
The image displays the change in ranking from 2009 to 2010. The United States is losing ground in every ranked category, less 'trade freedom' (which improved by one tenth of one percent, and 'Fdm. from Corruption' (though we will lose ground next year due to TARP, as stated in the report).
Regarding our lowest ranking, Government Spending:
Business Freedom: -0.6
Trade Freedom: +0.1
Fiscal Freedom: no change
Government Spending: -1.6
Monetary Freedom: -5.9
Investment Freedom: -5.0
Financial Freedom: -10.0
Property Rights: -5.0
Fdm. from Corruption: +1.0
Labor Freedom: -0.3
Another piece of information that has been largely unreported by the mainstream media, nor discussed at large, nor regarded as important to the powers that be. Looking for the silver lining on this is like trying to polish a ... well... you know.
We the people, in the land of the mostly free, have allowed ourselves to slip further into historical obscurity... an experiment gone horribly wrong...
Most likely none, as the pomp and circumstance associated with nationalistic pride outweighs the actual facts on the ground.
The Heritage Foundation's Index of Economic Freedom for 2010 shows the United States falling to 8th place, and for the first time EVER, out of the standing as a "free" economic society to a "mostly free" society - joining such countries as Bahrain, Cyprus, Georgia, Botswana, and Chile. That is right. The Leader of the Free World has been demoted to a second rate economic society, ranking slightly higher than Mexico (who is gaining much economic traction on the world stage, though currently "moderately free") and, yes, ranking lower than Canada (who is classified as "economically free").
In our lifetime, and under the charging banner of the Federal Government of these many states, the United States has officially surrendered her freedom, losing rank and credibility both regionally and throughout the world.
The image displays the change in ranking from 2009 to 2010. The United States is losing ground in every ranked category, less 'trade freedom' (which improved by one tenth of one percent, and 'Fdm. from Corruption' (though we will lose ground next year due to TARP, as stated in the report).
Regarding our lowest ranking, Government Spending:
Total government expenditures, including consumption and transfer payments, are relatively high and rising rapidly. In the most recent year, government spending equaled 37.4 percent of GDP. Spending increases totaled well over $1 trillion in 2009 alone, an increase of more than 20 percent over 2008. Stimulus spending set for the next three years is estimated to equal 5 percent of 2009 GDP.A summary of rank changes is as follows:
Business Freedom: -0.6
Trade Freedom: +0.1
Fiscal Freedom: no change
Government Spending: -1.6
Monetary Freedom: -5.9
Investment Freedom: -5.0
Financial Freedom: -10.0
Property Rights: -5.0
Fdm. from Corruption: +1.0
Labor Freedom: -0.3
Another piece of information that has been largely unreported by the mainstream media, nor discussed at large, nor regarded as important to the powers that be. Looking for the silver lining on this is like trying to polish a ... well... you know.
We the people, in the land of the mostly free, have allowed ourselves to slip further into historical obscurity... an experiment gone horribly wrong...
Monday, March 8, 2010
Dept. of Interior Land Grab: 10 Million Acres of PRIVATE PROPERTY
In a dramatic behind the scenes power move by the federal government over the states, the Interior Department (the same guys responsible for our wonderful BIA - Bureau of Indian Affairs) is moving forward with an agenda to seize over 10 million acres of private land for federal control. Like many of the most heinous crimes against this country that the federal government has committed over the past many years, this one is being done out of the main eye of the public and without much debate - save Sen. DeMint who is TRYING DESPERATELY to rally the public on this issue:
From the Washington Times:
What is more, this land is high energy land - land in the western states known to have large amounts of natural resources, mines and oil fields currently in operation in some cases. The intent is to shut down mines and oil operations as part of an environmental lurch left. This shut-down will cost thousands of additional jobs, though this seems an obvious trade-off to all those miners and other employees and private land owners ON THE LAND NOW... I mean, it's the environment, and the climate, and if THAT isn't a national treasure/monument, I don't know WHAT is...
Under the Antiquities Act, it appears that by Presidential Discretion land can be 'consumed' by the fire of the federal government, without approval from the state governments or private property owners, for the sake of "science" - in this case climate science. The text reads, in part:
This brings me back to the topic of Nullification. It is up to the states and the people of the states to openly reject, TO OPENLY REJECT the doctrine of the federal government - be it done by Republicans or Democrats... The Federal Government is existing outside of the confines of the Constitution - so much so that this nation is not even a shadow of its founding self... it is, in fact, nothing at all resembling a free nation of free people...
From the Washington Times:
"A secret administration memo has surfaced revealing plans for the federal government to seize more than 10 million acres from Montana to New Mexico, halting job- creating activities like ranching, forestry, mining and energy development. Worse, this land grab would dry up tax revenue that's essential for funding schools, firehouses and community centers. President Obama could enact the plans in this memo with just the stroke of a pen, without any input from the communities affected by it."According to the article, the ability for the federal government to perform land grabs in a case such as this is part of the 1906 Antiquities Act, however, we are witness to another case of the federal government using soft loopholes to centralize power.
What is more, this land is high energy land - land in the western states known to have large amounts of natural resources, mines and oil fields currently in operation in some cases. The intent is to shut down mines and oil operations as part of an environmental lurch left. This shut-down will cost thousands of additional jobs, though this seems an obvious trade-off to all those miners and other employees and private land owners ON THE LAND NOW... I mean, it's the environment, and the climate, and if THAT isn't a national treasure/monument, I don't know WHAT is...
Under the Antiquities Act, it appears that by Presidential Discretion land can be 'consumed' by the fire of the federal government, without approval from the state governments or private property owners, for the sake of "science" - in this case climate science. The text reads, in part:
American Antiquities Act of 1906Congress has a history of passing bad law, law that could otherwise be deemed unconstitutional, and law that seldom makes sense on the ground. This act is prime example of a carte-blanche authority for the federal government to acquire private land under the guise of science... when climate and environmental science is the 'science-de-jour', does our protection from unconstitutional land seizure vaporize?
16 USC 431-433
Sec. 2. That the President of the United States is hereby authorized, in his discretion, to declare by public proclamation historic landmarks, historic and prehistoric structures, and other objects of historic or scientific interest that are situated upon the lands owned or controlled by the Government of the United States to be national monuments, and may reserve as a part thereof parcels of land, the limits of which in all cases shall be confined to the smallest area compatible with proper care and management of the objects to be protected: Provided, That when such objects are situated upon a tract covered by a bona fide unperfected claim or held in private ownership, the tract, or so much thereof as may be necessary for the proper care and management of the object, may be relinquished to the Government, and the Secretary of the Interior is hereby authorized to accept the relinquishment of such tracts in behalf of the Government of the United States.
This brings me back to the topic of Nullification. It is up to the states and the people of the states to openly reject, TO OPENLY REJECT the doctrine of the federal government - be it done by Republicans or Democrats... The Federal Government is existing outside of the confines of the Constitution - so much so that this nation is not even a shadow of its founding self... it is, in fact, nothing at all resembling a free nation of free people...
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