Does any one really believe a conservative ideology is better than a liberal philosophy? If so, you must be a conservative politician. Their assumed elite status is a fairy tale much like the "Warren Report." I have a good laugh when I hear a politician say I am a conservative, like, hey, look at me I am superior. As for this writer, I am an American who understands the fact that America works best with American solutions and ideas.
It was the American spirit and attitude that won WWI and WWII, turned around the great depression of 1929 and created the greatest generation. And it was three Democratic Presidents who governed during those years and did not associate themselves with being elite. They had an American philosophy that conservatives today call liberal.
It was President Clinton who balanced the federal budget after 28 straight years of federal deficits and he did not accomplish that with a conservative ideology. He had an economic and deficit reduction plan that was passed by the democratic controlled congress in 1993. All republicans in the congress voted against that plan. And now it is another democratic President who is reducing the federal deficit after eight straight years of deficit spending by President George W. Bush. Neither Clinton or Obama adopted an elite status. They just rolled up their sleeves and went to work for the American people with plans and a policy that worked. And they articulated those plans to the people. Conservatives have no such thing and the budget the U.S. House adopted a short time ago does not plan to balance the federal budget for the next 10 years. They still lack arithmetic skills.
President Kennedy once said we all share the same planet, breathe the same air and we are all mortal. It was a statement about unity and working together to accomplish much for humankind. Kennedy was aware that division was an obstacle to progress. The conservative ideology of being elite and all knowing has divided the country and created unnecessary problems at a time when a united stand is required. The conservatives recent talk of impeaching President Obama demonstrates just how unAmerican their ideology has become and one can be sure if they do President Obama will not be the last democrat to be impeached by them. They have nothing else. Their ideology and elite position is a train wreck and their victim is the country, democracy and the American people.
This commentary written by John Lucia.
Sunday, June 29, 2014
Friday, June 27, 2014
Hosts At MSMBC Still Claim They Do Not Understand Why Republicans Act As They Do
MSNBC's evening shows should look to "PolitiDose" for the answer, it is there in plain sight. Their hosts over a period of time have asked that question over and over. It is not really hard to understand the republican's M.O.: Personal attacks, lies, false information, hate, their trumped up scandals and constant accusations toward President Obama and the democratic party in general.
The answer is republicans have no record of accomplishments that move the country and its people forward. They also do not have any policy plans or ideas to introduce or explain to the people on the issues. They know the news media is a sucker for any story so they keep feeding the media their crud. And like an obedient child the news media waste time by giving this crud exposure and never hold the republicans responsible for their lack of informing the people of a policy.
Its the old shell game. Keep the news media busy with the republican crud with little time left to expose the republicans ideology and lack of policy or ideas. The ACA is a good example. The news media spent a great deal of time allowing republicans to lambaste the ACA but spent almost zero time asking them to articulate details of their own health plan they said they have to replace the ACA. It must be written in invisible ink.
The republican M.O. is easy to understand if you pay attention because it goes back to the Reagan years. Reagan, Bush 41 and Bush 43 ran the country a total of 20 years. Yet during that time Rush Limbaugh and the conservative news media used the same M.O. crud tactic against democrats while those 3 President ran the show. Why would the media do that while they ran the country? Well, it was because other than a failed trickle down economic policy, there was no other policy to articulate for the republican party. And that my friends really says it all.
This commentary written by John Lucia
The answer is republicans have no record of accomplishments that move the country and its people forward. They also do not have any policy plans or ideas to introduce or explain to the people on the issues. They know the news media is a sucker for any story so they keep feeding the media their crud. And like an obedient child the news media waste time by giving this crud exposure and never hold the republicans responsible for their lack of informing the people of a policy.
Its the old shell game. Keep the news media busy with the republican crud with little time left to expose the republicans ideology and lack of policy or ideas. The ACA is a good example. The news media spent a great deal of time allowing republicans to lambaste the ACA but spent almost zero time asking them to articulate details of their own health plan they said they have to replace the ACA. It must be written in invisible ink.
The republican M.O. is easy to understand if you pay attention because it goes back to the Reagan years. Reagan, Bush 41 and Bush 43 ran the country a total of 20 years. Yet during that time Rush Limbaugh and the conservative news media used the same M.O. crud tactic against democrats while those 3 President ran the show. Why would the media do that while they ran the country? Well, it was because other than a failed trickle down economic policy, there was no other policy to articulate for the republican party. And that my friends really says it all.
This commentary written by John Lucia
Thursday, June 26, 2014
The Tea Party Republicans: Childish, Extreme, Sore Losers and Non-Productive
Losing an election to a so called "establishment republican" brings out the worst and that is what happened when U.S. republican Senator Thad Cochran beat tea party challenger Chris McDaniel in Tuesday's run off election in Mississippi.
McDaniel would not concede the election, railed against the open primary (even though he was familiar with it) was angry that black democratic voters contributed to Cochran's win and spoke about a third party in the future. McDaniel had the support of Sarah Palin and out side tea party groups that poured in millions of campaign dollars. He won the initial primary vote but the run off primary was his to lose and that he did.
The tea party candidate saw the so called "republican establishment" as main street conservatives willing to compromise. That does not really describe the republican party in congress. If that was so, the "establishment republicans" especially John Boehner and Mitch McConnell would have crushed the tea party's obstruction within the U.S. House and Senate. Those two republican leaders went along with the tea party's demands, that is why the federal government was shut down not very long ago.
Palin and many other tea party leaders are now hinting at starting a third party movement since very few of their candidates have done well in recent elections. They hate Washington, or so they say but want to serve there. They like to invoke the names of our country's fore fathers but our fore fathers if living today would have nothing to do with their phony ideology. They are not serious public servants who want to serve their country to make things better. That can only be done by compromise. No party or individual has all the answers even though tea party people think they do.
When one stops to think about it, it is amazing that President Obama has had some accomplishments in moving the country and its people forward. The so called "established republicans" vowed from day one not to help him and then they let the tea party people in congress intimidate them to not take up bills passed by the U.S. Senate and prohibited other important issues to be voted on.
And all the while our country and its people are paying a price for their childish and extreme ideology.
This commentary written by John Lucia
McDaniel would not concede the election, railed against the open primary (even though he was familiar with it) was angry that black democratic voters contributed to Cochran's win and spoke about a third party in the future. McDaniel had the support of Sarah Palin and out side tea party groups that poured in millions of campaign dollars. He won the initial primary vote but the run off primary was his to lose and that he did.
The tea party candidate saw the so called "republican establishment" as main street conservatives willing to compromise. That does not really describe the republican party in congress. If that was so, the "establishment republicans" especially John Boehner and Mitch McConnell would have crushed the tea party's obstruction within the U.S. House and Senate. Those two republican leaders went along with the tea party's demands, that is why the federal government was shut down not very long ago.
Palin and many other tea party leaders are now hinting at starting a third party movement since very few of their candidates have done well in recent elections. They hate Washington, or so they say but want to serve there. They like to invoke the names of our country's fore fathers but our fore fathers if living today would have nothing to do with their phony ideology. They are not serious public servants who want to serve their country to make things better. That can only be done by compromise. No party or individual has all the answers even though tea party people think they do.
When one stops to think about it, it is amazing that President Obama has had some accomplishments in moving the country and its people forward. The so called "established republicans" vowed from day one not to help him and then they let the tea party people in congress intimidate them to not take up bills passed by the U.S. Senate and prohibited other important issues to be voted on.
And all the while our country and its people are paying a price for their childish and extreme ideology.
This commentary written by John Lucia
Tuesday, June 24, 2014
U.S. Republican Representative Bill Cassidy: Is He A Congressmen Or Is He A Doctor?
It is really hard to tell in his T. V. ads against U.S. Senator Mary Landrieu who he is running against in the November elections. The great majority of his ads that this writer has seen concerns his opposition to the ACA and Mary's vote for the act. He wears a doctors coat in those ads and I often find myself wondering if he wore his doctors coat when he and his fellow republicans in the U.S. House voted to defund the act 50 plus times.
Voters know the doctor/congressmen and his party are ditto heads on the issue and also know where Mary Landrieu stands on the issue. What is silent in the ads is Cassidy's health care plan for the uninsured. He can't even tell his own base which tells this writer he could care less about them and their right to know. Of course, his party has had 13 years to develop a plan and introduce the plan to congress and have failed to do so.
Perhaps Cassidy, the doctor/congressmen knows part of the reason for the escalation in health care cost is due to increases in doctor's fees and that the ACA will bring those costs down to a reasonable level. Conservatives every one knows believe doctors, like other business should not have to abide by any regulations.
The bottom line for voters should be: When is Cassidy going to take his doctors coat off, put his congressmen's clothes on and give the voters some details on those issues that really matter and make a difference in moving the country and its people forward? He has already wasted many months of advertising. It is time for the doctor/congressmen to step up to the plate and offer alternatives instead of personal attacks.
Usually, candidates in their ads point to their own voting records. That does not happen in Cassidy's ads. He could start by reminding the people he voted to shut down the federal government not too long ago. And that really says it all.
This commentary written by John Lucia.
Voters know the doctor/congressmen and his party are ditto heads on the issue and also know where Mary Landrieu stands on the issue. What is silent in the ads is Cassidy's health care plan for the uninsured. He can't even tell his own base which tells this writer he could care less about them and their right to know. Of course, his party has had 13 years to develop a plan and introduce the plan to congress and have failed to do so.
Perhaps Cassidy, the doctor/congressmen knows part of the reason for the escalation in health care cost is due to increases in doctor's fees and that the ACA will bring those costs down to a reasonable level. Conservatives every one knows believe doctors, like other business should not have to abide by any regulations.
The bottom line for voters should be: When is Cassidy going to take his doctors coat off, put his congressmen's clothes on and give the voters some details on those issues that really matter and make a difference in moving the country and its people forward? He has already wasted many months of advertising. It is time for the doctor/congressmen to step up to the plate and offer alternatives instead of personal attacks.
Usually, candidates in their ads point to their own voting records. That does not happen in Cassidy's ads. He could start by reminding the people he voted to shut down the federal government not too long ago. And that really says it all.
This commentary written by John Lucia.
Monday, June 23, 2014
More Confirmation That Understanding The Past Is The Key To A Better Future
Former U.S. Ambassador Joseph C. Wilson wrote a commentary published in the Huffington Post on 6/22/14 titled, "Iraq: The Way Ahead Requires Understanding The Past." Joseph Wilson readers will remember was the person sent to Niger to check out the fiction that Saddam Hussein purchased yellow cake(nuclear material) from that country and reported back no such evidence existed. That put the Bush administration in more denial. His wife, a CIA employee was outed by members of Bush's administration to try and get back at Wilson.
Readers of "PolitiDose" knows this writers position on "Understanding the past is the key to a better future" and expressed that in many past commentary. Wilson in his article stated above explains how that applies to the Iraq situation today. A few things he pointed out was that Saddam told him in one of his visits to Iraq was if he was ever deposed Iraq would break up into pieces and chaos. Saddam ruled with an iron fist but kept the country together. He was a Sunni, the minority party in Iraq. The Shia and Kurds were the other parties in Iraq with the Shia being the majority like they are in Iran and Syria.
Wilson pointed out that President George H.W. Bush (Sr.) understood that and what a break up of Iraq with out Saddam would do to destabilize Iraq and other parts of the middle east. That is why Bush did not seek to remove Saddam after the Gulf War in 1991. In other words Bush senior understood the past and did not want to undermind the future. (Editors note)
President George W. Bush did not understand or pay attention to Iraq's past, ordered the invasion and occupation of that country over WMD that did not exist and there fore undermined and destablized Iraq which was the prelude to what is taken place in Iraq today. What Saddam told Wilson would happen if he was deposed has come true. The three parties in Iraq are being joined by terrorists and other Sunnis and Shia from outside Iraq and playing havoc.
In previous commentary I pointed out how the very first civilization on earth said they were taught that understand the past was the key to the future and that man controlled his own fate. I also pointed out that Bush was not fated to invade Iraq but since he failed to understand the past he fated Iraq into chaos.
Joseph Wilson's article should be read by everyone, including President Obama and future Presidents to gain understanding before they act. And hopefully "PolitiDose" helped plant the seed why a better future for our people is found in understanding the past.
Reference related articles: The U.S., Past, Present and Future published 12/31/08
What will the New Year Bring politically? published 12/28/10
This commentary written by John Lucia.
Readers of "PolitiDose" knows this writers position on "Understanding the past is the key to a better future" and expressed that in many past commentary. Wilson in his article stated above explains how that applies to the Iraq situation today. A few things he pointed out was that Saddam told him in one of his visits to Iraq was if he was ever deposed Iraq would break up into pieces and chaos. Saddam ruled with an iron fist but kept the country together. He was a Sunni, the minority party in Iraq. The Shia and Kurds were the other parties in Iraq with the Shia being the majority like they are in Iran and Syria.
Wilson pointed out that President George H.W. Bush (Sr.) understood that and what a break up of Iraq with out Saddam would do to destabilize Iraq and other parts of the middle east. That is why Bush did not seek to remove Saddam after the Gulf War in 1991. In other words Bush senior understood the past and did not want to undermind the future. (Editors note)
President George W. Bush did not understand or pay attention to Iraq's past, ordered the invasion and occupation of that country over WMD that did not exist and there fore undermined and destablized Iraq which was the prelude to what is taken place in Iraq today. What Saddam told Wilson would happen if he was deposed has come true. The three parties in Iraq are being joined by terrorists and other Sunnis and Shia from outside Iraq and playing havoc.
In previous commentary I pointed out how the very first civilization on earth said they were taught that understand the past was the key to the future and that man controlled his own fate. I also pointed out that Bush was not fated to invade Iraq but since he failed to understand the past he fated Iraq into chaos.
Joseph Wilson's article should be read by everyone, including President Obama and future Presidents to gain understanding before they act. And hopefully "PolitiDose" helped plant the seed why a better future for our people is found in understanding the past.
Reference related articles: The U.S., Past, Present and Future published 12/31/08
What will the New Year Bring politically? published 12/28/10
This commentary written by John Lucia.
Sunday, June 22, 2014
Louisiana's Steve Scalise Elected Whip Of The U.S. House Of Representative
Steve Scalise becme the 3rd. top man in the Republican controlled U.S. House when he was elected to replace Kevin McCarthy who became majority leader replacing Eric Cantor. News commentary in the Times Picayune was varied as to what it means for Louisiana and the country.
This writer sees little change in the U.S. House since the only difference in Scalise and McCarthy is Scalise's right wing tea party ideology is more extreme. Scalise is head of the Republican Study Committee to advance conservative solutions in a way that actually unites the party as a conference. That committee says it has a GOP alternative to the Affordable Care Act worked out and chairman Scalise said he would introduce it to the U.S. House for a vote but that was months ago and has yet to be introduced. So no one knows what it is all about. To top it off, republicans said they will not take it up until after the November elections are over. In other words, vote for me in November and I might tell you what the republican health care proposal is all about after the elections.
Scalise was one of the 3 House members from Louisiana to vote against opening the federal government after voting to shut it down. The other two were Bill Cassidy and John Fleming. Charles Boustany of Louisiana voted to open the government. Cassidy, Fleming and Scalise were also 3 of the 80 republicans to sign a letter to vote against any thing that did not defund the ACA.
Scalise receives most of his campaign contributions from the oil and gas industry. And of course he was against the moratorium in the Gulf of Mexico after the BP spill and blow out that took the lives of 11 rig workers. He also opposed the Levee Boards suit against 97 oil and gas companies for their damage to Louisiana's environment and did nothing to hold them accountable during his 12 years of service in the state legislature.
One can see that Scalise"s study committee is about putting conservative solutions to their ideology and not an American solution which is needed to solve problems. The conservative ideology during the last republican administration in which Scalise served gave the country and its people the second great republican depression. And a more severe conservative ideology by the tea party during the Obama administration has given the country and its people obstruction.
There was a time congressional leaders of their party were judged on their accomplishments, not for their party but for the country. Can any one think of any accomplishments by John Boehner for the country? President Kennedy once said, sincerity was always subject to proof. Well time will tell what Steve Scalise will stand up. The conservative for conservative causes or the U.S representative for the country and its people. Time will tell.
This commentary written by John Lucia.
This writer sees little change in the U.S. House since the only difference in Scalise and McCarthy is Scalise's right wing tea party ideology is more extreme. Scalise is head of the Republican Study Committee to advance conservative solutions in a way that actually unites the party as a conference. That committee says it has a GOP alternative to the Affordable Care Act worked out and chairman Scalise said he would introduce it to the U.S. House for a vote but that was months ago and has yet to be introduced. So no one knows what it is all about. To top it off, republicans said they will not take it up until after the November elections are over. In other words, vote for me in November and I might tell you what the republican health care proposal is all about after the elections.
Scalise was one of the 3 House members from Louisiana to vote against opening the federal government after voting to shut it down. The other two were Bill Cassidy and John Fleming. Charles Boustany of Louisiana voted to open the government. Cassidy, Fleming and Scalise were also 3 of the 80 republicans to sign a letter to vote against any thing that did not defund the ACA.
Scalise receives most of his campaign contributions from the oil and gas industry. And of course he was against the moratorium in the Gulf of Mexico after the BP spill and blow out that took the lives of 11 rig workers. He also opposed the Levee Boards suit against 97 oil and gas companies for their damage to Louisiana's environment and did nothing to hold them accountable during his 12 years of service in the state legislature.
One can see that Scalise"s study committee is about putting conservative solutions to their ideology and not an American solution which is needed to solve problems. The conservative ideology during the last republican administration in which Scalise served gave the country and its people the second great republican depression. And a more severe conservative ideology by the tea party during the Obama administration has given the country and its people obstruction.
There was a time congressional leaders of their party were judged on their accomplishments, not for their party but for the country. Can any one think of any accomplishments by John Boehner for the country? President Kennedy once said, sincerity was always subject to proof. Well time will tell what Steve Scalise will stand up. The conservative for conservative causes or the U.S representative for the country and its people. Time will tell.
This commentary written by John Lucia.
Saturday, June 21, 2014
The Income Inequality Factor: Another First For "PolitiDose."
Robert Reich, former U.S. Labor Secretary in the Clinton administration recently wrote in the Huffington Post how a few CEO's of several large corporations visited with him to express their concerns how middle class income inequality in the United States has harmed the economy, slowed economic growth and threatens future economic stability.
Middle class income inequality and the transfer of wealth from the middle class to the wealthy are one and the same, and if that sounds familiar it is because you read it here first in "PolitiDose" many times over since 2007. Middle class income continues to go no where while the incomes of corporate America, their CEO's and executives continue to skyrocket.
The CEO's who visited with Reich pointed out what every one should know, a thriving middle class is needed for a healthy economy because of their purchasing power to buy goods. With out a middle class, commerce becomes stagnant with less buying power which results in fewer goods being produced. It brings on the domino effect (and I do not mean pizza) of less jobs, a weakened economy and everything that goes with it. Countries with out a strong and viable middle class can be defined as "those that have and those that have not." There is no in between.
I wrote a commentary titled,"Corporate America: Leaving The Average American In The Dust" dated 11/23/07 here in "PolitiDose" and my first two sentence was: "Corporate America has the power to transform the quality of life for its employees and the people of this country. They have failed to do so because of their greed." And today, seven years later, nothing has changed. My brother always said there are only two ways to make money. You can earn it or you can steal it. I do not think those who ask for special treatment and those who are responsible for the income inequality today have earned it.
The CEO's who are concerned about this income inequality have expressed their willingness to pay more taxes themselves and for their companies. The republicans answer to them has been "just voluntary pay more taxes when you file." Serious problems deserve serious answers and actions, something that is in short supply in Congress. The lack of addressing the problem and raising the minimum wage are two great examples.
In this writers judgement the best way to take positive action on the matter is to elect enough democrats to Congress in the November elections to give them control of both houses of Congress. I think the President should be given the opportunity to pursue his policies he has talked about on the subject matter. The republican controlled House will not even let their own members bring up legislation to vote on in order to deny the President an opportunity to move the country and its people forward.
Income inequality and the transfer of wealth has gone on far too long and the slow disappearance of the middle class has to be reversed. Prior to the election of Barack Obama, the republicans controlled the White House 20 or the previous 28 years. They had more than their chance. It is time for President Obama to have his chance to continue to move the country and its people forward with his own policies.
This commentary written by John Lucia
Middle class income inequality and the transfer of wealth from the middle class to the wealthy are one and the same, and if that sounds familiar it is because you read it here first in "PolitiDose" many times over since 2007. Middle class income continues to go no where while the incomes of corporate America, their CEO's and executives continue to skyrocket.
The CEO's who visited with Reich pointed out what every one should know, a thriving middle class is needed for a healthy economy because of their purchasing power to buy goods. With out a middle class, commerce becomes stagnant with less buying power which results in fewer goods being produced. It brings on the domino effect (and I do not mean pizza) of less jobs, a weakened economy and everything that goes with it. Countries with out a strong and viable middle class can be defined as "those that have and those that have not." There is no in between.
I wrote a commentary titled,"Corporate America: Leaving The Average American In The Dust" dated 11/23/07 here in "PolitiDose" and my first two sentence was: "Corporate America has the power to transform the quality of life for its employees and the people of this country. They have failed to do so because of their greed." And today, seven years later, nothing has changed. My brother always said there are only two ways to make money. You can earn it or you can steal it. I do not think those who ask for special treatment and those who are responsible for the income inequality today have earned it.
The CEO's who are concerned about this income inequality have expressed their willingness to pay more taxes themselves and for their companies. The republicans answer to them has been "just voluntary pay more taxes when you file." Serious problems deserve serious answers and actions, something that is in short supply in Congress. The lack of addressing the problem and raising the minimum wage are two great examples.
In this writers judgement the best way to take positive action on the matter is to elect enough democrats to Congress in the November elections to give them control of both houses of Congress. I think the President should be given the opportunity to pursue his policies he has talked about on the subject matter. The republican controlled House will not even let their own members bring up legislation to vote on in order to deny the President an opportunity to move the country and its people forward.
Income inequality and the transfer of wealth has gone on far too long and the slow disappearance of the middle class has to be reversed. Prior to the election of Barack Obama, the republicans controlled the White House 20 or the previous 28 years. They had more than their chance. It is time for President Obama to have his chance to continue to move the country and its people forward with his own policies.
This commentary written by John Lucia
Thursday, June 19, 2014
U.S. Senator David Vitter: Does Any One Really Know Where He Stands?
David Vitter, republican U.S. Senator from Louisiana and other republicans in congress say they are still committed to defund or repeal the Affordable Care Act (ACA: Obamacare to republicans) yet in an editorial of 6/18/14 in the Times Picayune appearing before the Press Club of Baton Rouge, Vitter said he would be open to accepting the federal expansion of medicaid offered under the ACA if he becomes governor. That is obviously good news for Louisiana and the uninsured if he wins.
That flip flop defines Vitter's phony ideology. I happen to live in his district and receive his emails and his rant about how bad the ACA is for Louisiana. If there were no ACA there would be no medicaid expansion. So once again Vitter's rant has given way to his support to a program made possible by the ACA. Of course, being a announced candidate for governor of Louisiana he will do most anything.
Medicaid expansion in Louisiana would cover 242,000 who are now uninsured, create 15,600 jobs and would bring in $16 billion in extra medicaid money according to the editorial. That is what Bobby Jindal has rejected so far. Two other parts of the editorial are very revealing concerning Vitter and the republican failure to move the country forward and improve the quality of life.
Vitter said we need to reform and improve medicaid. I have no problem with that but lets see. Nothing was done to do that by republicans during the 8 years of the Bush administration and the 5 years of the Obama administration. Vitter also said the state's budget has been held together in the last few years with sewing yarn and scotch tape. (Actually, it has been that way since Jindal was elected) It was a hint that excepting the medicaid expansion money would come in handy concerning budget matters. Vitter knows of course that Jindal has never really balanced one state budget and that no republican administration has balanced any federal budget since Ike in 1960 and he has been silent on the matter.
President Obama in drafting the ACA that includes the medicaid expansion was very thoughtful. It allowed state governors who accepted the expansion seek waivers to do it their way and waivers have been granted to the governors. Yes, the Obama administration has worked much better to help state governors than those that opposed his policies and the ACA. Their answers are personal attacks.
Democrats have policies that work and are flexible for corrective action in order to move the country and its people forward. Republicans have trickle down economics as part of their ideology that has no relationship that benefits the average American. They also refuse to work with democrats because they want to see failure.
This commentary published by John Lucia.
That flip flop defines Vitter's phony ideology. I happen to live in his district and receive his emails and his rant about how bad the ACA is for Louisiana. If there were no ACA there would be no medicaid expansion. So once again Vitter's rant has given way to his support to a program made possible by the ACA. Of course, being a announced candidate for governor of Louisiana he will do most anything.
Medicaid expansion in Louisiana would cover 242,000 who are now uninsured, create 15,600 jobs and would bring in $16 billion in extra medicaid money according to the editorial. That is what Bobby Jindal has rejected so far. Two other parts of the editorial are very revealing concerning Vitter and the republican failure to move the country forward and improve the quality of life.
Vitter said we need to reform and improve medicaid. I have no problem with that but lets see. Nothing was done to do that by republicans during the 8 years of the Bush administration and the 5 years of the Obama administration. Vitter also said the state's budget has been held together in the last few years with sewing yarn and scotch tape. (Actually, it has been that way since Jindal was elected) It was a hint that excepting the medicaid expansion money would come in handy concerning budget matters. Vitter knows of course that Jindal has never really balanced one state budget and that no republican administration has balanced any federal budget since Ike in 1960 and he has been silent on the matter.
President Obama in drafting the ACA that includes the medicaid expansion was very thoughtful. It allowed state governors who accepted the expansion seek waivers to do it their way and waivers have been granted to the governors. Yes, the Obama administration has worked much better to help state governors than those that opposed his policies and the ACA. Their answers are personal attacks.
Democrats have policies that work and are flexible for corrective action in order to move the country and its people forward. Republicans have trickle down economics as part of their ideology that has no relationship that benefits the average American. They also refuse to work with democrats because they want to see failure.
This commentary published by John Lucia.
Wednesday, June 18, 2014
The Iraq War: Phase II, The March To Baghdad
There would not be a Phase II or march to Baghdad such as taking place now in Iraq if President Bush had not unleashed Phase I, the invasion and occupation of Iraq over WMD that did not exist. The war created Al Queda in Iraq who was not operating in any part of Iraq controlled by Saddam. That unnecessary war destabilized Iraq and allowed outsiders from Iran and other middle east countries, including Al Queda the opportunity to attack and kill Americans.
This writer wrote a number of commentaries in 2007 and later that pointed out that no matter how the war ended, Iran and Iraq would be on the same side and that Bush's misguided judgement that he could remake Iraq in his own warped image would not happen. Phase I was the prelude to Phase II and the so called Hawks and neocons who wanted the invasion are still wrong.
I am reminded while on vacation a few years ago in Alabama there was a Soundoff written to the Mobile Register newspaper dated January 15, 2005. I cut it out and I still have it in my file because I thought it told a great story. Below is the full context. It truly captures the story of the war in Iraq and just how passive the news media and many people have been concerning the war.
SOMETHING IS NOT RIGHT HERE, FOLKS
Our President has just announced there are no weapons of mass destruction in Iraq and we will now stop looking. People, this is the reason Bush gave for invading a country. Does anyone in this country even care? Thousands of people are dead over this. We are treating it like a footnote to a brief announcement from the White House. What is even more alarming is that he says knowing what he knows now, he would do it again.
President Obama's concerns now during Phase II is to protect our people in our embassy and work toward a settlement with all factions involved and the U.N. That may not even be enough in that part of the world. For sure the President needs to tune out Senators John McCain and Lindsey Graham and those who clamored for the war in the first place. They have no creditibility.
The most important move now is for Iraq's elected leaders to step up and move the people to take on the insurgents and drive them out. If they are incapable of a united front outside help will only delay the final out come. Insurgents in that part of the world can lay low and choose their time to act. That is what they are doing now in Phase II.
This commentary written by John Lucia
This writer wrote a number of commentaries in 2007 and later that pointed out that no matter how the war ended, Iran and Iraq would be on the same side and that Bush's misguided judgement that he could remake Iraq in his own warped image would not happen. Phase I was the prelude to Phase II and the so called Hawks and neocons who wanted the invasion are still wrong.
I am reminded while on vacation a few years ago in Alabama there was a Soundoff written to the Mobile Register newspaper dated January 15, 2005. I cut it out and I still have it in my file because I thought it told a great story. Below is the full context. It truly captures the story of the war in Iraq and just how passive the news media and many people have been concerning the war.
SOMETHING IS NOT RIGHT HERE, FOLKS
Our President has just announced there are no weapons of mass destruction in Iraq and we will now stop looking. People, this is the reason Bush gave for invading a country. Does anyone in this country even care? Thousands of people are dead over this. We are treating it like a footnote to a brief announcement from the White House. What is even more alarming is that he says knowing what he knows now, he would do it again.
President Obama's concerns now during Phase II is to protect our people in our embassy and work toward a settlement with all factions involved and the U.N. That may not even be enough in that part of the world. For sure the President needs to tune out Senators John McCain and Lindsey Graham and those who clamored for the war in the first place. They have no creditibility.
The most important move now is for Iraq's elected leaders to step up and move the people to take on the insurgents and drive them out. If they are incapable of a united front outside help will only delay the final out come. Insurgents in that part of the world can lay low and choose their time to act. That is what they are doing now in Phase II.
This commentary written by John Lucia
Cokie And Steve Roberts, And Cal Thomas: Its All About Hillary
The Times Picayune reflection section on Sunday 6/15/14 carried two editorials. One by Cokie and Steve Roberts and one by Cal Thomas. Both editorials concerned Hillary Clinton that missed the mark so much this writer questions their journalistic understanding of the issues they wrote about.
Cokie and Steve's commentary titled,"Hillary Clinton Must Close Warmlth Gap To Be Successful" seems so silly. They have joined the crowd on speculating that Hillary will run in 2016 even though that election is two and half years away. They make the statement that voters want to gauge her tone and temperament, her character and values and that she has always faced a warmth gap. Then they refer to a 2008 wall street/NBC poll that is 6 years old.
The American people have followed Hillary since her husband first ran for President in the early 90's and know her well. She wrote a book called "It Takes a Village", was a U.S. Senator with a voting record, was a candidate for the Democratic Presidential nomination in 2008 and Secretary of State for four years. You can not be any more warm than that. Those who like her will vote for her and "warmth" will not be an issue. Those who do not like her and would not vote for her if she runs could care less about her "warmth" factor Cokie and Steve speak about.
Cokie and Steve then disagree with their own statement when they said Hillary told Dianne Sawer that Bill and her were dead broke after leaving the White House. Then offered it was technically true, but then offered it opened her up to ridicule since she and her husband quickly wiped out their debts. This writer never heard ridicule from the people, only from the news media and journalists. It reminds me of how Fox News uses the word scandal every time they want to stick it to President Obama.
Cal Thomas in his editorial titled, "Former Secretary Has Few Accomplishments To Point To At State Deprtment" devotes a lot of ink to Hillary's new book, "Hard Choices" and like the ditto head act of conservatives, thinks Hillary has not only failed at every thing she has done but thinks if she becomes President it will be a rerun of the Obama administration. Of course thepeople remember her difference with Barack Obama during the 2008 Presidential debates.
Thomas's editorial was for one specific reason and that is to join with other conservative journalists and the Fox News Network to destroy Hilary's chances if she does indeed enter the Presidential race. Oh, one thing more. Cal Thomas asked his readers to trust him. Thats a pretty tall order for a person who takes pleasure in wanting to see the President fail.
Neither editorial had any value of the moment and instead tried to plant a seed in the people's mind that will long be forgotten when 2016 rolls around. Cokie and Steve were off their game big time and Thomas does what conservative journalists do, attack democrats because republicans have no record of moving the country and its people forward.
This commentary written by John Lucia
Cokie and Steve's commentary titled,"Hillary Clinton Must Close Warmlth Gap To Be Successful" seems so silly. They have joined the crowd on speculating that Hillary will run in 2016 even though that election is two and half years away. They make the statement that voters want to gauge her tone and temperament, her character and values and that she has always faced a warmth gap. Then they refer to a 2008 wall street/NBC poll that is 6 years old.
The American people have followed Hillary since her husband first ran for President in the early 90's and know her well. She wrote a book called "It Takes a Village", was a U.S. Senator with a voting record, was a candidate for the Democratic Presidential nomination in 2008 and Secretary of State for four years. You can not be any more warm than that. Those who like her will vote for her and "warmth" will not be an issue. Those who do not like her and would not vote for her if she runs could care less about her "warmth" factor Cokie and Steve speak about.
Cokie and Steve then disagree with their own statement when they said Hillary told Dianne Sawer that Bill and her were dead broke after leaving the White House. Then offered it was technically true, but then offered it opened her up to ridicule since she and her husband quickly wiped out their debts. This writer never heard ridicule from the people, only from the news media and journalists. It reminds me of how Fox News uses the word scandal every time they want to stick it to President Obama.
Cal Thomas in his editorial titled, "Former Secretary Has Few Accomplishments To Point To At State Deprtment" devotes a lot of ink to Hillary's new book, "Hard Choices" and like the ditto head act of conservatives, thinks Hillary has not only failed at every thing she has done but thinks if she becomes President it will be a rerun of the Obama administration. Of course thepeople remember her difference with Barack Obama during the 2008 Presidential debates.
Thomas's editorial was for one specific reason and that is to join with other conservative journalists and the Fox News Network to destroy Hilary's chances if she does indeed enter the Presidential race. Oh, one thing more. Cal Thomas asked his readers to trust him. Thats a pretty tall order for a person who takes pleasure in wanting to see the President fail.
Neither editorial had any value of the moment and instead tried to plant a seed in the people's mind that will long be forgotten when 2016 rolls around. Cokie and Steve were off their game big time and Thomas does what conservative journalists do, attack democrats because republicans have no record of moving the country and its people forward.
This commentary written by John Lucia
Tuesday, June 17, 2014
A Tale Of Two Investments: One Of Corporate Welfare, The Other Of Community Involvement
The Times Picayune carried two stories dated June 11 and June 13, the former titled, "Mega Movie Studio Proposed For Algiers" and the latter titled, "Art Group Investing Millions In New Orleans." It is a tale of one investment, the latter that believes in giving back to the community and paying their own way; and the former of tax breaks for companies seeking Corporate Welfare.
Movie producer Scott Niemeyer wants to build a $63.5 million movie production campus in Algiers according to staff writer Katherine Sayre's article. Niemeyer said he will seek local tax incentives for the project and that he will also seek to raise $49.5 million in foreign investment and the remaining of $14 million he is confident about securing financing.
Niemeyer's company is a for profit business and evidently Algiers has every thing needed except the financing. In other words, tax breaks are the only draw to bring his studio to Algiers. It is a prime example of why economic conditions have been hard on the middle class. Paying taxes like every one else makes common sense and has no relationship for business to make a profit. (Warren Buffet already put that fairy tale to rest.)
The June 13 article by staff writer Doug MacCash was about The Joan Mitchell Foundation, a wealthy art philanthropy that decided to make New Orleans the site of a "artist retreat" where promising painters and sculptors from across the country can commune, honing their skills. Their total investment in the New Orleans economy will be $20 million including other related projects. And how about the following that was reported in the article.
The Joan Mitchell Foundation dosen't compete for state, federal or private funds. Nor does the foundation solicit donations. In fact the foundation doesn't even accept gifts. And the multi-structured company is paying property tax to boot. In other words every thing the foundation has spent in New Orleans has come out of its own deep, paint-stained pockets. (Editors note: What a refreshing attitude.)
The philanthropy is the better investment for the New Orleans economy, its people and for city government. It will bring people here from all over and many would probably stay and practice their skills. This type of art would be better for every day life than the movie artist. They are also paying taxes and are not asking for special tax treatment. The city and state need more business that pays its own way.
If tax breaks are a component of selling the city or state to influence a business to locate here and that business is deemed to have a long profitable stay, then why not execute an iron clad agreement for the business to pay back all tax breaks and incentives? Is there any one out there that thinks that is unfair?
Remember it is business who want nothing to do with government regulations or over sight, but they love those government tax breaks and incentives with no strings attached. This writer believes the city and state should seek out more businesses like the "Foundation" who do not mind paying their fair share of taxes and whose business will contribute to the quality of life for the city, state, the people and for the arts and science.
This commentary written by John Lucia.
Movie producer Scott Niemeyer wants to build a $63.5 million movie production campus in Algiers according to staff writer Katherine Sayre's article. Niemeyer said he will seek local tax incentives for the project and that he will also seek to raise $49.5 million in foreign investment and the remaining of $14 million he is confident about securing financing.
Niemeyer's company is a for profit business and evidently Algiers has every thing needed except the financing. In other words, tax breaks are the only draw to bring his studio to Algiers. It is a prime example of why economic conditions have been hard on the middle class. Paying taxes like every one else makes common sense and has no relationship for business to make a profit. (Warren Buffet already put that fairy tale to rest.)
The June 13 article by staff writer Doug MacCash was about The Joan Mitchell Foundation, a wealthy art philanthropy that decided to make New Orleans the site of a "artist retreat" where promising painters and sculptors from across the country can commune, honing their skills. Their total investment in the New Orleans economy will be $20 million including other related projects. And how about the following that was reported in the article.
The Joan Mitchell Foundation dosen't compete for state, federal or private funds. Nor does the foundation solicit donations. In fact the foundation doesn't even accept gifts. And the multi-structured company is paying property tax to boot. In other words every thing the foundation has spent in New Orleans has come out of its own deep, paint-stained pockets. (Editors note: What a refreshing attitude.)
The philanthropy is the better investment for the New Orleans economy, its people and for city government. It will bring people here from all over and many would probably stay and practice their skills. This type of art would be better for every day life than the movie artist. They are also paying taxes and are not asking for special tax treatment. The city and state need more business that pays its own way.
If tax breaks are a component of selling the city or state to influence a business to locate here and that business is deemed to have a long profitable stay, then why not execute an iron clad agreement for the business to pay back all tax breaks and incentives? Is there any one out there that thinks that is unfair?
Remember it is business who want nothing to do with government regulations or over sight, but they love those government tax breaks and incentives with no strings attached. This writer believes the city and state should seek out more businesses like the "Foundation" who do not mind paying their fair share of taxes and whose business will contribute to the quality of life for the city, state, the people and for the arts and science.
This commentary written by John Lucia.
Saturday, June 14, 2014
The Algiers-Canal Street Ferry Resumes Extended Hours
In a meeting with the Algiers Point Association, Justin Augustine, VP of Veolie Transportation announced the Algiers-Canal street ferry hours of operations would be extended from 6am to 10pm Monday thru Friday beginning July 1. Justin also noted state senator David Heitmeier and city councilwoman Nadine Ramsey secured the funding for the next two years of operation.
This writers recent commentary on the subject matter pointed out that funding should have been in place when the tolls were removed from the bridge so there would be no interrupted hours of the ferry service. The people of Algiers suffered thru that reduced service for almost one full year. Many thanks to Mr. Heitmeier and Ms. Ramsey for securing the needed funds.
Justin Augustine also said they will be working to extend weekend hours in the future for ferry services and will work for improved service as well as new ferry boats. He also said the company is committed to the service of the Algiers-Canal street ferry system. The extended hours is great news for the people of Algiers, especially those who use the ferry in their daily lives. Lets hope it is just the first step in a viable transportation system for pedestrians that fits into the life styles of the people who have used the service since 1827.
This commentary written by John Lucia.
This writers recent commentary on the subject matter pointed out that funding should have been in place when the tolls were removed from the bridge so there would be no interrupted hours of the ferry service. The people of Algiers suffered thru that reduced service for almost one full year. Many thanks to Mr. Heitmeier and Ms. Ramsey for securing the needed funds.
Justin Augustine also said they will be working to extend weekend hours in the future for ferry services and will work for improved service as well as new ferry boats. He also said the company is committed to the service of the Algiers-Canal street ferry system. The extended hours is great news for the people of Algiers, especially those who use the ferry in their daily lives. Lets hope it is just the first step in a viable transportation system for pedestrians that fits into the life styles of the people who have used the service since 1827.
This commentary written by John Lucia.
The U.S. Senate Votes To Improve Veteran Administrations Health Services
The U.S. Senate approved a Veterans Administration health care bill 93-3. The bill would expand for Veterans health care services including private doctors, shorter wait time and a multitude of other health services that have been in the news lately. The CBO estimates the bill will cost $35 billion over the next ten years and maybe more.
Republican representative Jeff Miller, chairman of the House Veterans Committee said the republicans will want offsets in the budget (cuts in other programs) to pay for the bill. The people should remember that it was President Bush who started the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq while the republican party controlled both houses of congress and paid for those wars with deficit spending and not budget cuts. They also passed a prescription drug benefit that they said would cost no more than $400 billion over 10 years but has already cost double that amount and was also paid for by deficit spending and not budget cuts.
The war in Afghanistan has already cost over $1 trillion and still counting. The war in Iraq also cost over $1 trillion. One war, the former was justified, the other was an unnecessary war over WMD that did not exist. Those two wars have placed 2 million more veterans into the VA system according to democratic U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders, Chairman of the Veterans Affairs Committee, who said our job is to make certain that every veteran in the country gets quality health care in a timely manner.
President Bush and the republican party saw no obstacle in spending over $3 trillion on the above wars and prescription drug benefit financed by deficit spending but now republicans in congress want budget cuts to fund a VA bill that is estimated to cost $35 billion. It is just another way for the republicans to obstruct needed legislation concerning the problems with the VA and confirms their unAmerican ideology of the double standard they practice. The democratic party has demonstrated in the past that democratic administrations are best at controlling federal spending, lowering the federal deficit, balancing the federal budget and the Obama administration is doing just that.
This commentary written by John Lucia.
Republican representative Jeff Miller, chairman of the House Veterans Committee said the republicans will want offsets in the budget (cuts in other programs) to pay for the bill. The people should remember that it was President Bush who started the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq while the republican party controlled both houses of congress and paid for those wars with deficit spending and not budget cuts. They also passed a prescription drug benefit that they said would cost no more than $400 billion over 10 years but has already cost double that amount and was also paid for by deficit spending and not budget cuts.
The war in Afghanistan has already cost over $1 trillion and still counting. The war in Iraq also cost over $1 trillion. One war, the former was justified, the other was an unnecessary war over WMD that did not exist. Those two wars have placed 2 million more veterans into the VA system according to democratic U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders, Chairman of the Veterans Affairs Committee, who said our job is to make certain that every veteran in the country gets quality health care in a timely manner.
President Bush and the republican party saw no obstacle in spending over $3 trillion on the above wars and prescription drug benefit financed by deficit spending but now republicans in congress want budget cuts to fund a VA bill that is estimated to cost $35 billion. It is just another way for the republicans to obstruct needed legislation concerning the problems with the VA and confirms their unAmerican ideology of the double standard they practice. The democratic party has demonstrated in the past that democratic administrations are best at controlling federal spending, lowering the federal deficit, balancing the federal budget and the Obama administration is doing just that.
This commentary written by John Lucia.
Thursday, June 12, 2014
Republican U.S. House Majority Leader Eric Cantor Defeated In Reelection Bid
The number two Republican in the U.S. House was defeated in Tuesday's congressional primary in Virginia. Tea party candidate David Brat, an economic professor received 55% of the vote to Cantor's 44%. The cable news networks interrupted their programs to broadcast the news which was described by their hosts and guests as "an earthquake; An apocalyptic moment for the GOP; Devastating loss" and other terms.
This writer does not believe any of those descriptions describe the outcome of the election. Politics always takes on the dramatic side because of the news media. We see that on the Sunday talk shows and in political debates. The defeat of Cantor does not change the balance of power in the republican controlled house because the tea party and the establishment republicans will still be of the mind set to obstruct President Obama's agenda. That was Cantor's role as majority leader and who ever takes over that position will continue that obstruction because John Boehner is still speaker of the house.
It was Cantor who has prevented bills that were passed in the U.S. Senate to be taken up in the House. The immigration bill is a good example. Some house democrats say they need only about 25 republican yes votes in the House and immigration would pass because the democrats would supply the majority yes votes and put the bill over the top. Democrats also say they have over 15 republican yes votes now and are working on obtaining more. That is one reason why Cantor will not bring up the immigration bill.
What would be an earthquake is if Cantor or his successor would bring up the immigration bill and enough republicans would vote with the democrats to pass it. That is not likely to happen because republicans, tea party or other wise are so far to the right and so ingrained in their unAmerican ideology they have disregarded the fundamentals of being an American first.
The news media said nothing that I can find about Cantor's speech to his supporters in acknowledging defeat when he said. Its disappointing, sure. But I believe in this country. I believe there's opportunity around the next corner for all of us. That is a positive statement about the country that is happening on President Obama's watch. Too bad Eric Cantor passed up so many oportunities to work with the President and make the country an even better place to live. He was in the right position to do so and failed the President, the country and its people. And that really says it all.
This commentary written by John Lucia.
This writer does not believe any of those descriptions describe the outcome of the election. Politics always takes on the dramatic side because of the news media. We see that on the Sunday talk shows and in political debates. The defeat of Cantor does not change the balance of power in the republican controlled house because the tea party and the establishment republicans will still be of the mind set to obstruct President Obama's agenda. That was Cantor's role as majority leader and who ever takes over that position will continue that obstruction because John Boehner is still speaker of the house.
It was Cantor who has prevented bills that were passed in the U.S. Senate to be taken up in the House. The immigration bill is a good example. Some house democrats say they need only about 25 republican yes votes in the House and immigration would pass because the democrats would supply the majority yes votes and put the bill over the top. Democrats also say they have over 15 republican yes votes now and are working on obtaining more. That is one reason why Cantor will not bring up the immigration bill.
What would be an earthquake is if Cantor or his successor would bring up the immigration bill and enough republicans would vote with the democrats to pass it. That is not likely to happen because republicans, tea party or other wise are so far to the right and so ingrained in their unAmerican ideology they have disregarded the fundamentals of being an American first.
The news media said nothing that I can find about Cantor's speech to his supporters in acknowledging defeat when he said. Its disappointing, sure. But I believe in this country. I believe there's opportunity around the next corner for all of us. That is a positive statement about the country that is happening on President Obama's watch. Too bad Eric Cantor passed up so many oportunities to work with the President and make the country an even better place to live. He was in the right position to do so and failed the President, the country and its people. And that really says it all.
This commentary written by John Lucia.
Tuesday, June 10, 2014
Gun Violence In America
There was more gun violence today in America, this time at a high school in Oregon. Our schools, a place for learning has become a battleground that was once a safe place where a parent felt safe and confident their child could obtain a good education and learn how to interact with their peers.
The United States has failed to address the gun violence problem because it is treated as a divisive issue. No problem can be addressed adequately if it is treated as such. Abortion, Religion, Sex Orientation and Immigration are good examples. Special interest groups and many elected officials take delight in promoting divisive issues to paralize the process. Gun control debates take on a "me against them" attitude and nothing gets done.
Our country and its people experienced much less gun violence before the NRA came into being and much more gun violence since the NRA has become more political with their campaign contributions and the willingness of elected officials to allow them to write gun legislation. So the NRA and the second ammendent has no record of reducing gun violence.
When divisiveness gives way to common sense debate on this scourge on America, solutions will be found to make America safe again. There was no common sense debate when the George W. Bush administration allowed the assault weapons ban expire. It was a common sense ban that worked. And since it expired states have rushed to pass gun laws that allow people to carry concealed weapons into stores, churches and other places of gathering. That also has proven to be no answer to gun violence.
It should be noted that police chiefs across the United States supported the assault weapons ban.
One of the latest statement from the NRA that the answer to gun violence is "a good guy with a gun" has not worked either. It sounds macho, but the killings goes on. President Clinton put 100,000 extra police officers on the streets in our states and paid for it with federal funds. It worked and helped to reduce crime and gun violence. Law enforcement across the country lauded the President for his actions because it worked and they needed the help since their own cities and states could not afford to increase their police forces. The Bush administration ended the practice.
Makes no difference what problem or issue we face, the key to a better future is understanding the past. The greatest generation was not divided, they were united. It was a common sense time of being an American and what America stood for. We are a divided nation now controlled by special interest money and a news media that does not respect our democratic elections any more and who try to undermine the process with divisive issues and false scandals.
Yes, gun violence in America can be brought under control. There is a road map how to do so that is still alive in our past. Thinking man has to emerge once again and shut the door on those who promote the status quo of division and instead promote those common sense ideals that has made America great.
This commentary written by John Lucia
The United States has failed to address the gun violence problem because it is treated as a divisive issue. No problem can be addressed adequately if it is treated as such. Abortion, Religion, Sex Orientation and Immigration are good examples. Special interest groups and many elected officials take delight in promoting divisive issues to paralize the process. Gun control debates take on a "me against them" attitude and nothing gets done.
Our country and its people experienced much less gun violence before the NRA came into being and much more gun violence since the NRA has become more political with their campaign contributions and the willingness of elected officials to allow them to write gun legislation. So the NRA and the second ammendent has no record of reducing gun violence.
When divisiveness gives way to common sense debate on this scourge on America, solutions will be found to make America safe again. There was no common sense debate when the George W. Bush administration allowed the assault weapons ban expire. It was a common sense ban that worked. And since it expired states have rushed to pass gun laws that allow people to carry concealed weapons into stores, churches and other places of gathering. That also has proven to be no answer to gun violence.
It should be noted that police chiefs across the United States supported the assault weapons ban.
One of the latest statement from the NRA that the answer to gun violence is "a good guy with a gun" has not worked either. It sounds macho, but the killings goes on. President Clinton put 100,000 extra police officers on the streets in our states and paid for it with federal funds. It worked and helped to reduce crime and gun violence. Law enforcement across the country lauded the President for his actions because it worked and they needed the help since their own cities and states could not afford to increase their police forces. The Bush administration ended the practice.
Makes no difference what problem or issue we face, the key to a better future is understanding the past. The greatest generation was not divided, they were united. It was a common sense time of being an American and what America stood for. We are a divided nation now controlled by special interest money and a news media that does not respect our democratic elections any more and who try to undermine the process with divisive issues and false scandals.
Yes, gun violence in America can be brought under control. There is a road map how to do so that is still alive in our past. Thinking man has to emerge once again and shut the door on those who promote the status quo of division and instead promote those common sense ideals that has made America great.
This commentary written by John Lucia
Monday, June 9, 2014
Sgt. Bergdahl Will Have To Answer To The Military
U.S. Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl, POW in Afghanistan has already been convicted by the Fox News Network and some inside and outside of congress who will do anything to wound the President. Rushing to judgement with out knowing the facts is SOP for their kind of politics.
The military brass are interviewing Bergdahl to try and determine just what happened and that is where it has to start. All military people have to answer to the Uniform Code Of Military Justice which authorizes the right to try Sgt Bergdahl in this case if he indeed violated that code. John McCain and Lindsey Graham know that but still act like they are ignorant with their childish comments. McCain has already flip flopped on the issue when it was pointed out he earlier approved the swap with the 5 taliban POW's.
President Obama is not the first President to swap POW's and he won't be the last. You would never think that if one listens to the right wingers who says he has no authority to do so. Like Benghazi, Sgt. Bergdahl has become a political football to be kicked around by those who have nothing better to do than promote divisive issues to detract from their own failures. There was a story in Sunday's paper that said Bergdahl's whole outfit in Afghanistan was considered a misfit that was assigned to an outpost that was isolated and hard to defend. But the right wingers are not talking about that. If that turns out to be true a lot of Americans were in danger and does not speak well for our military leaders who let it happen. Without the facts the right wingers could make a best seller out of this situation.
This writer believes our military brass will find out just what happened the night Sgt. Bergdahl went missing. Until that time comes would it not be wise to hold judgement and examine the facts then? I don't expect Fox News to do that because they have demonstrated they like to report the news falsely. McCain and Graham know better but their mind has been brainwashed by those WMD in Iraq that did not exist. They also seemed to forget that it was President Reagan that traded arms for hostages with Iran's terrorists regime.
This commentary written by John Lucia
The military brass are interviewing Bergdahl to try and determine just what happened and that is where it has to start. All military people have to answer to the Uniform Code Of Military Justice which authorizes the right to try Sgt Bergdahl in this case if he indeed violated that code. John McCain and Lindsey Graham know that but still act like they are ignorant with their childish comments. McCain has already flip flopped on the issue when it was pointed out he earlier approved the swap with the 5 taliban POW's.
President Obama is not the first President to swap POW's and he won't be the last. You would never think that if one listens to the right wingers who says he has no authority to do so. Like Benghazi, Sgt. Bergdahl has become a political football to be kicked around by those who have nothing better to do than promote divisive issues to detract from their own failures. There was a story in Sunday's paper that said Bergdahl's whole outfit in Afghanistan was considered a misfit that was assigned to an outpost that was isolated and hard to defend. But the right wingers are not talking about that. If that turns out to be true a lot of Americans were in danger and does not speak well for our military leaders who let it happen. Without the facts the right wingers could make a best seller out of this situation.
This writer believes our military brass will find out just what happened the night Sgt. Bergdahl went missing. Until that time comes would it not be wise to hold judgement and examine the facts then? I don't expect Fox News to do that because they have demonstrated they like to report the news falsely. McCain and Graham know better but their mind has been brainwashed by those WMD in Iraq that did not exist. They also seemed to forget that it was President Reagan that traded arms for hostages with Iran's terrorists regime.
This commentary written by John Lucia
Sunday, June 8, 2014
Another Jobs Report To Move The Country Forward
The economy created 217,000 jobs for May and unemployment was unchanged at 6.3% That was the 51st straight month of positive job creation and some economist are saying the numbers are now at a sustained rate for future growth.
It was also the first time since 1999 that employers added over 200,000 jobs per month for the last 4 months. The economy has also regained most of the 9 million jobs lost in the second great republican depression.
There is still much more to do for the economy and job creation to keep up with all of the first time job seekers entering the market for the first time and to employ the long term unemployed that are still out there. The President's policies are working like this writer said they would when he first took office.
The republicans in congress continue to waste a great opportunity economically by their opposition to all of Obama's policies. But once again it is a democratic administration who is moving the country and its people forward under differcult times and when the President leaves office it will be another democratic administration that created more jobs than the previous republican administration. And if that sounds familiar its because you read it hear first in "PolitiDose", your daily dose of political commentary.
This commentary written by John Lucia
It was also the first time since 1999 that employers added over 200,000 jobs per month for the last 4 months. The economy has also regained most of the 9 million jobs lost in the second great republican depression.
There is still much more to do for the economy and job creation to keep up with all of the first time job seekers entering the market for the first time and to employ the long term unemployed that are still out there. The President's policies are working like this writer said they would when he first took office.
The republicans in congress continue to waste a great opportunity economically by their opposition to all of Obama's policies. But once again it is a democratic administration who is moving the country and its people forward under differcult times and when the President leaves office it will be another democratic administration that created more jobs than the previous republican administration. And if that sounds familiar its because you read it hear first in "PolitiDose", your daily dose of political commentary.
This commentary written by John Lucia
Friday, June 6, 2014
The Algiers Ferry: The People Of Algiers Are Still Waiting.
The proponents of removing the tolls from the Crescent City Connection could care less about the people who have depended on the ferry service since 1827. The people who live in Algiers Point or near by are the ones who have been affected most by the reduced ferry hours.
There are two good articles that were published in the Times Picayune of June 4 and 6 concerning the subject matter. One was a letter to the editors by an individual who used to cross the ferry upwards of 20 times a month under the old expanded schedule and now only 2 or 3 times a month is viable for him because of the reduced hours.
The ferry problems came about when the tolls were voted off the CCC. Those tolls were the financial engine that operated the ferry. I wrote a commentary at that time pointing out that the real story here is that those politicians who supported removing the tolls had no plans to keep the ferry running full time if the measure passed. Well it passed and almost a year later there is still no funding to operate the ferry full time.(By full time I mean the hours before the toll removal)
This writer was born in Old Algiers in the 1930's and the people always paid to cross the ferry be that on foot or in an auto. But unlike those who dislike paying the bridge tolls, the people of Algiers were always willing to pay their way. Ferry service is the ideal way to visit the CBD for those living in Algiers. It is no different than those who depend on the St. Charles street cars.
The Algiers ferry is vital to their community and elected officials should step up to the plate and fund the ferry back to its expanded schedule. Is that really asking too much from a state that doles out $8 billion a year in tax breaks and exemptions to business?
See my previous commentary dated 7/8/13 titled, TheAbandonment of The Algiers Ferry and The People of Algiers.
This commentary written by John Lucia.
There are two good articles that were published in the Times Picayune of June 4 and 6 concerning the subject matter. One was a letter to the editors by an individual who used to cross the ferry upwards of 20 times a month under the old expanded schedule and now only 2 or 3 times a month is viable for him because of the reduced hours.
The ferry problems came about when the tolls were voted off the CCC. Those tolls were the financial engine that operated the ferry. I wrote a commentary at that time pointing out that the real story here is that those politicians who supported removing the tolls had no plans to keep the ferry running full time if the measure passed. Well it passed and almost a year later there is still no funding to operate the ferry full time.(By full time I mean the hours before the toll removal)
This writer was born in Old Algiers in the 1930's and the people always paid to cross the ferry be that on foot or in an auto. But unlike those who dislike paying the bridge tolls, the people of Algiers were always willing to pay their way. Ferry service is the ideal way to visit the CBD for those living in Algiers. It is no different than those who depend on the St. Charles street cars.
The Algiers ferry is vital to their community and elected officials should step up to the plate and fund the ferry back to its expanded schedule. Is that really asking too much from a state that doles out $8 billion a year in tax breaks and exemptions to business?
See my previous commentary dated 7/8/13 titled, TheAbandonment of The Algiers Ferry and The People of Algiers.
This commentary written by John Lucia.
Thursday, June 5, 2014
The Louisiana Legislature Votes To Kill Coastal Lawsuit Against Oil Industry.
At the urging of Governor Bobby Jindal the state Senate passed Senate bill 469 by a vote of 25-11 which if signed into law by Jindal would retroactively void the lawsuit filed by the SE Louisiana Flood Protection-East against 97 oil industry companies for damages to Louisiana's environment.
Those who supported and or voted in favor of the legislation showed just who they are accountable too, the oil industry and their campaign contributions. They have failed to represent the state and the people's interest for over 40 years by giving the industry a pass on their responsibility to clean up and repair the damage to the land caused by their operations.
Jindal, a day later announced he would not sign the bill until Attorney General Buddy Caldwell had a chance to review the bill and sign off on it because the bill might negate lawsuits filed against the BP spill of 2010. Thenty two law professors asked Jindal to veto the bill for the same reasons plus it may have conflicts also with the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 and with the federal Coastal Zone Management Act.
One would think that the governor and the legislature would have had the wisdom to check out the legality of the bill before they pushed it and passed it. Is that too much to ask of our public servants? They rushed to the defense of the oil industry as soon as the lawsuit was filed and their actions has been a disgrace on the issue.
The only honorable thing for Jindal to do is veto Senate bill 469 that he pushed for, put the interest of the state and its people first and let the oil industry defend itself in a court of law where the problem belongs. After all, state legislators have had more than enough time to live up to their responsibility and hold the industry responsible.
This commentary written by John Lucia.
Those who supported and or voted in favor of the legislation showed just who they are accountable too, the oil industry and their campaign contributions. They have failed to represent the state and the people's interest for over 40 years by giving the industry a pass on their responsibility to clean up and repair the damage to the land caused by their operations.
Jindal, a day later announced he would not sign the bill until Attorney General Buddy Caldwell had a chance to review the bill and sign off on it because the bill might negate lawsuits filed against the BP spill of 2010. Thenty two law professors asked Jindal to veto the bill for the same reasons plus it may have conflicts also with the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 and with the federal Coastal Zone Management Act.
One would think that the governor and the legislature would have had the wisdom to check out the legality of the bill before they pushed it and passed it. Is that too much to ask of our public servants? They rushed to the defense of the oil industry as soon as the lawsuit was filed and their actions has been a disgrace on the issue.
The only honorable thing for Jindal to do is veto Senate bill 469 that he pushed for, put the interest of the state and its people first and let the oil industry defend itself in a court of law where the problem belongs. After all, state legislators have had more than enough time to live up to their responsibility and hold the industry responsible.
This commentary written by John Lucia.
Tuesday, June 3, 2014
The Republican Leadership Conference In New Orleans: An Embarrasment To Republican Voters.
The only thing worse than ditto head conservative republicans is ditto head journalists. In the Times Picayune dated 6/1/14 there were three articles published under the by line of Adriane Quinian, a staff writer, Bill Barrow of the Associated Press, and New Orleans writer James Varney who claims conservative credentials. After reading all three articles about the conference and its speakers there was no mention of what any of the speakers or their party would do to move the country forward or address the short falls the country faces.
Adriane Quinian's article was about the speech given by Phil Robertson of Duck Dynasty and the following is what his speech was all about. Reevaluate the current view about church and state: The discovery of DNA; Obamacare: Urged the GOP to more closely ally with christian values: get godly: you can't be right for America if you are wrong with God: The discovery of DNA proves God created life on earth: half of our scientist jumped ship after DNA was discovered. (Note: they really did not)
Bill Barrow's article was about speaches that covered: Ronald Reagan; how conservatives led a budget fight that sparked a partial shutdown of government last fall; the Reagan Revolution; Reagan compromised on every thing; in Texas we define gun control real simple, thats hitting what you aim at.
James Varney's article was mostly about republican national chairman Reince Priebus and how to best remake the republican party; congressional and Presidential elections; the big tent idea; Michele Bachmann and Sarah Palin; a hostile media; Donald Trump and birthers.
The three articles was void of any policy talk about what republican hopefuls and their party would do for the economy, job creation, balancing the budget, keeping America safe, increase middle class income or anything about what they claim ails the country.
The leadership conference provided no leadership for those in attendence or any voter, republican or otherwise. Conservatives failure to articulate what they stand for is directly related to their ideology and failure to be "serious" public servants. And once again their base is the big loser and taken advantage of. The speakers at the conference named by the three writers were: Phil Robertson, U.S. Senator Ted Cruz, Haley Barbour, Reince Priebus and Donald Trump.
We know the George W. Bush disaster is the reason why republicans and conservative journalists never talk about his administration. It is too painful. But don't republicans have at least a duty to tell the American pleople what they would do besides divide the people with divisive issues such as the ones reported by the above three journalists.
The bottom line is that the people know where President Obama stands and also the democratic party. But as President Kennedy once said, those who are afraid to trust the American peoploe with the facts are afraid of its people. Conservative republicans need to develop some character and courage. The tea party needs to develop a brain. And those who talk about DNA and know zero about the matter need to keep their mouth shut.
This commentary written by John Lucia.
Adriane Quinian's article was about the speech given by Phil Robertson of Duck Dynasty and the following is what his speech was all about. Reevaluate the current view about church and state: The discovery of DNA; Obamacare: Urged the GOP to more closely ally with christian values: get godly: you can't be right for America if you are wrong with God: The discovery of DNA proves God created life on earth: half of our scientist jumped ship after DNA was discovered. (Note: they really did not)
Bill Barrow's article was about speaches that covered: Ronald Reagan; how conservatives led a budget fight that sparked a partial shutdown of government last fall; the Reagan Revolution; Reagan compromised on every thing; in Texas we define gun control real simple, thats hitting what you aim at.
James Varney's article was mostly about republican national chairman Reince Priebus and how to best remake the republican party; congressional and Presidential elections; the big tent idea; Michele Bachmann and Sarah Palin; a hostile media; Donald Trump and birthers.
The three articles was void of any policy talk about what republican hopefuls and their party would do for the economy, job creation, balancing the budget, keeping America safe, increase middle class income or anything about what they claim ails the country.
The leadership conference provided no leadership for those in attendence or any voter, republican or otherwise. Conservatives failure to articulate what they stand for is directly related to their ideology and failure to be "serious" public servants. And once again their base is the big loser and taken advantage of. The speakers at the conference named by the three writers were: Phil Robertson, U.S. Senator Ted Cruz, Haley Barbour, Reince Priebus and Donald Trump.
We know the George W. Bush disaster is the reason why republicans and conservative journalists never talk about his administration. It is too painful. But don't republicans have at least a duty to tell the American pleople what they would do besides divide the people with divisive issues such as the ones reported by the above three journalists.
The bottom line is that the people know where President Obama stands and also the democratic party. But as President Kennedy once said, those who are afraid to trust the American peoploe with the facts are afraid of its people. Conservative republicans need to develop some character and courage. The tea party needs to develop a brain. And those who talk about DNA and know zero about the matter need to keep their mouth shut.
This commentary written by John Lucia.
Sunday, June 1, 2014
The U.S. House Passes Background Checks Ammendment.
The U.S. House passed expanding funding for federal background checks 260-145. The measure increases funding by $19.5 million to make the background checks more comprehensive including covering more mental health data. This comes at a time of last weeks deadly shooting in California.
Once again it was the democratic minority in the House that furnished the majority vote. 184 democrats voted for the bill and 76 republicans did likewise. This is a common sense measure and the majority of republicans voted against it including all 5 U.S. reps from Louisiana. Steve Scalise, Charles Boustany, John Fleming, Bill Cassidy and Vance McAllister all voted no. Louisiana's democratic rep Cedric Richmond voted yes with the majority.
The 5 necons from Louisiana who voted no have no creditibility on gun control, even the basis safety concerns. This is not the first time that the democratic minority in the U.S. House has furnished the majority vote to pass common sense legislation. (see my commentary titled, The U.S. House Passes A Clean Debt Limit dated 2/15/14) The 76 republicans who voted yes with the democrats showed they understand common sense issues.
Louisiana rep. Bill Cassidy who voted against the measure is the same Bill Cassidy who is running against Senator Mary Landrieu. The state does not need a republican senator who votes no just because he and his party has nothing to offer America and its people.
This commentary written by John Lucia.
Once again it was the democratic minority in the House that furnished the majority vote. 184 democrats voted for the bill and 76 republicans did likewise. This is a common sense measure and the majority of republicans voted against it including all 5 U.S. reps from Louisiana. Steve Scalise, Charles Boustany, John Fleming, Bill Cassidy and Vance McAllister all voted no. Louisiana's democratic rep Cedric Richmond voted yes with the majority.
The 5 necons from Louisiana who voted no have no creditibility on gun control, even the basis safety concerns. This is not the first time that the democratic minority in the U.S. House has furnished the majority vote to pass common sense legislation. (see my commentary titled, The U.S. House Passes A Clean Debt Limit dated 2/15/14) The 76 republicans who voted yes with the democrats showed they understand common sense issues.
Louisiana rep. Bill Cassidy who voted against the measure is the same Bill Cassidy who is running against Senator Mary Landrieu. The state does not need a republican senator who votes no just because he and his party has nothing to offer America and its people.
This commentary written by John Lucia.
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