ISIL Suffers Another Defeat

Prior to the November congressional elections there was a lot of negative news aimed at President Obama and his administration concening a lot of fabricated issues pushed by the news media, especially the conservative news media and republicans in congress.  Most are just a faded memory now because they lacked substance.

The one that comes to mind now is the story that the POWERFUL ISIL was about to over run and take over the city of Kobani that sits on the Syrian and Turkish border.  The importance of taking Kobani would have given the Islamic State control of a border crossing with Turkey.  But U.S. and ally air strikes along with Kurdish ground forces routed and defeated ISIL last week and the ISIL forces have fled the area.  ISIL leaders confirmed the defeat and said U.S. air power was the difference.  The news media said Kobani would fall to ISIL back in September of last year.

This writer questioned in a commentary some time ago the strength of ISIL which was being flaunted by the news media.  Now the media says very little about ISIL.  "PolitiDose" had a commentary a few years ago also pointing out the U.S. had the Air capability to take care of problems in the middle east without committing American combat forces to fight a ground war over there.

President Obama's position that American air power along with Iraqi and other middle eastern ground troops would be able to accomplish the objective against ISIL and his policy position is working.  ISIL's advances have been stopped in many areas and towns have been retaken by Iraqi and Kurdish forces.  The President needs to stay on top of his policies and this writer has confidence he will do so because of his past performance.

This commentary written by Joe Lorio

A Turn Around For Republican Governor John Kasich

Ohio governor John Kasich served in the U.S. House of Congress during the Clinton administration and was one of Clinton's biggest critic of the President's policies.  He also voted against Clinton's economic and deficit reduction plan which passed the democratic controlled congress in 1993.  He was also one of the republicans who predicted doom and gloom for the country.  Kasich also voted to impeach President Clinton.

As governor of Ohio, Kasich is now defending his position of accepting medicaid coverage offered under the ACA to provide insurance for the working poor.  Republican legislators in Montana questioned his position at a meeting.  The legislators opposed the medicaid expansion to the ACA.  Kasich said what they do with the medicaid expansion is treat the metally ill, treat the drug addicted and we help the working poor stop going to the emergency rooms and forcing me to pay for their medical bills because they have to go there sicker.

That is a great endorcement of how the ACA is working for those it was designed to help.  The problem with Kasich and his republican party is that they lack the courage to embrace democratic proposals until they  get into situations where they have to raise taxes to take care of a problem in their state.  Health care was a problem when Kasich served in congress but congress kicked the can.

Too bad it took a challenge by Kasich's own party to respond to the benefits of the ACA.  But he still deserves to be congratulated on thinking about his own people.


This commentary written by Joe Lorio

Part I State Representative Jeff Arnold Wants To Create A New Parish On The West Bank of Jefferson and Orleans Parish

In a Times Picayune article dated 1/23/15 state representative Jeff Arnold wants Algiers and West Jefferson to secede from New Orleans and Jefferson Parish and form Louisiana's 65th. parish.  His reason:  "The resulting local government would be more responsive to residents concerns, including crime and blight.  The proposal could serve as leverage to gain more attention for West Jefferson parish government and his main interest more attention for Algiers from New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu."

Arnold's proposal is not as simple as he outlines in the article and all west bankers should be concerned especially those who reside in Algiers and who have done so all their lives.  "PolitiDose" will publish in several "parts" commentary concerning the issues Arnold raised in his article and also other issues that would be affected by the move.  West bankers are free to comment here in "PolitiDose" as to their thoughts concerning the matter, just click on "comments."  I will email representative Arnold a copy of each one of my commentaries as we move forward.

As a point of information, the population of six cities on the West Bank are shown below:

Algiers       60,000        Per Arnold's article\
Marrero     33,141        (2010)   Per City Web Page
Terrytown  23,319        (2010)        "           "
Harvey       20,348        (2010)        "           "
Gretna        17,802        (2013)        "           "
Westwego    8,524        (2012)        "           "

Arnold's reason for a new parish seem to be in conflict.  Does he really want a new West Bank parish or just a converssation to have leverage with Mayor Mitch Landrieu to do more for Algiers as he says in his statement.  He also believes Algiers and the West Bank are not properly represented by both Parish officials.  Does that mean he is talking about himself since he represents Algiers?

The statement made by Arnold that Algiers has one member on the City Council is correct but there are also two at large seats that represent the whole city that includes Algiers.  This writer had an opportunity just recently to work with all three on a problem in Algiers and they all worked together to solve the problem.

As a life long resident of Algiers I have not been exposed to the idea that its citizens are so dissatisfied that they want to secede from New Orleans.  I have family and friends that live in Jefferson Parish on the West Bank and the same applies there.  As an example of Algiers needing more attention Arnold tries to relate a time element as to how quick Gretna can respond to citizens concerns compared to New Orleans response. Well Gretna's population is 17,802 compared to Algiers 60,000.  I don't think some one using that silly comparison is qualified to lead the issue.  Arnold also wants Gretna to be the parish seat of the new parish government.  This writer does not buy that and I will have a special commentary concerning Algiers.

Federal City located in Algiers on the property that was the former Naval Station will become a great venue of progress for its citizens if handled properlyand will draw more people and industry to Algiers even from other cities on the West Bank, especially Gretna which is adjacent to Algiers.  Is this really the reason we are hearing talk about seceding?

Stay tuned for Part II and beyond.


This commentary written by Joe Lorio

The Historic Price Of A Barrel Of Oil

Today's falling oil prices are still much higher than its historical price and as a result so is the price of a gallon of gasoline.  Both move in the same direction.  Outside of Saudi Arabia's oil embargo in the 1970's the Saudi's supported a stable price that does not bounce back and forth wildly.  That is one reason they have not cut their production.  With the event of a new Saudi king we will find out soon enough if that country changes its tune.

A stable price is better for the economy even for those countries who produce most of the oil.  It is also good for the economy in general for all nations.  An example:  Louisiana is seeing its state revenue falling from lower taxes collected.  The oil industry has already announced cuts and layoffs.  A strong U.S. dollar, weaker energy consumption and economic conditions in Europe are also playing a part in the falling price.  But those are market related and do not cause the wild swing in price when the price is at a stable level.

The following information is taken from Inflation Data.com, Historical Crude Oil Prices, 1946 - Nov. 2014.  Prices shown are the nominal price and the price adjusted for inflation to 11/2014.  The prices shown represent the average yearly price of a barrel of oil and not the higher or lower price but the yearly average.

From 1969 - 2003, a total of 35 years, the average yearly nominal price for a barrel of oil was $18.37.  When adjusted for inflation the average yearly price was $42.19 per barrel.  From 2004 - Nov. 2014 a period of 11 years the average yearly nominal price of a barrel of oil was $70.92.  When adjusted for inflation it was $76.95 a barrel.

The numbers show the price of a barrel of oil started its climb in 2004, nine months after the invasion of Iraq and continued its rise until just a few months ago.  That 11 year period saw the highest sustained price for a barrel of oil over the past 46 years.  It appears to this writer that the price is trying to settle some where around its historical number with maybe some adjustments.  Its important for the U.S. economy to continue to grow and stay strong at home and abroad.  Stability has an equalizing effect on economic conditions.  That was seen during the Clinton administration with lower inflation, lower unemployment, balanced budgets, increase in middle class wages and guess what else?  The most stable oil prices in that 46 year period.  The average yearly nominal price for a barrel of oil was $18.02; adjusted for inflation it was $26.84.

Stable economic conditions lifts every one up and the oil producing countries,  including the U.S., the oil traders and manipulating prices becomes less effective and sustainable.  It makes economic sense for the price of a barrel of oil to return to a stable price level with only minor movement.  What is taking place now is a prelude to where the price may finally settle.  For those who think the added oil production from "fracking" will make Saudi Arabia moot, forget about it.  Saudi Arabia does not compete with "fracking."  In fact they are still pumping while some U.S. "fracking" operations are being reduced because of the cost.

The 11 year stretch of high prices resulted in doubling the cost of filling up an automobile with a tank of gas.  That can not be sustained without damaging the U.S. economy and helped prolong the recession of 2008.  That is money taking out of the economy.  Consumers spend more when the economy has balance.  The past has proved that and understanding the past is still the key to a better future.


This commentary written by Joe Lorio

The National Economic Outlook Continues To Be Bright While The State of Louisiana Stumbles.

The Congressional Budget Office reported the following:  It projects solid economic growth for the next few years;  increases in consumer spending;  Business investment and residential spending will drive the economic expansion this year and the next few years;  wages will increase;  19 million people will have health insurance because of the ACA;  as a share of the economy the federal deficit this year will be slightly below the historical average of the past 50 years;  the ACA will cost taxpayers about 20% less than projected in 2010 partly because of enrollment totals and health insurance premimums that are lower than expected;  unemployment will continue to go down.

The information coming out of Louisiana tells a very different story:  This years budget deficit for fiscal year ending June 30, 2015 is $283 million.  $180 million has already been cut and $103 million will have to be cut in the next several months according to a report in the Times Picayune dated January 28;  next years budget deficit for fiscal year ending June 30, 2016 is now projected to be $1.6 billion, up from a previous forecast of $1.4 billion;  Louisiana had the largest increase in unemployment last year from 5.4% to 6.7%;  state revenues are declining, partly because of lower oil prices but Jindal's previous budgets were all out of balance while oil prices were high and strong;  jobs will be lost and vital programs will have to be cut once again;  the $8 billion in tax exemptions for businesses will continue to erode Louisiana's revenues;  the magnitude of those tax exemptions are irresponsible.

Governor Jindal's policies and the republican controlled legislature that rubberstamped his policies has bankrupt Louisiana's budget and the sad part is that republican representative Brett Geymann was quoted by the Times Picayune in an article dated January 28 and said, "We knew we were facing a large number, we choose to do nothing about it last year."  Geymann is supposed to be a fiscal hawk.  Yea, tell me another fairy tale.

The Jindal administration continues to get into the average persons pocket in 100 different ways while his personal attacks continue against the President and the President's successful policies.  Jindal inherited a $800 million surplus from former governor Blanco and blew it big time.  Obama inherited 8 straight years of federal budget deficits from former President George W. Bush and the federal deficit has been coming down on a steady basis with a renewed economy.  And to think, Jindal runs only one state while Obama runs the nation.   That really says it all.


This commentary written by Joe Lorio

A Reasonable Decision By The New Orleans City Council

The New Orleans City Council voted unanimously to ban smoking in New Orleans bars, casinos and other named places.  This writer believes it was a good common sense vote for the public good and a step in a healthier environment.  My commentary titled, "Smoking Bans For Louisiana Casinos and Bars" dated 6/4/09 concerning the subject matter outlined my position on smoking.

At present there is a state wide ban on smoking in restaurants which I believe most people would agree has made for a better atmosphere while dining.  People have even said the food taste better.  Smokers feel like they have the right to smoke and I would point out that smoking bans have been in effect before health problems were taking into consideration over 50 years ago in movie theaters, in places of worship and some private places, but smokers still go to those places and have adjusted.

There are smoking ban laws on the books with in a certain distance from public buildings.  I think most will agree that second hand smoke is more dangerous to one's health in a closed environment like a casino or bar than an open area.  This writer travels to a non smoking casino on the Mississippi gulf coast rather than be exposed to the smoke in Louisiana casino's.

Cities and states are moving to a greener and healthier environment across the country and New Orleans should join the parade.  Smokers can continue to smoke, they will just have to do what they do when they go to a movie, refrain from smoking for a couple of hours.  Habits are hard to break but never fatal.


This commentary written by Joe Lorio

Louisiana's Bobby Jindal and The Fox News Network

Louisiana governor Bobby Jindal once again showed his true colors when he went to Europe and spoke about the "No Go Zones" scattered about the country.  It was the same story the Fox News Network ran with a few days earlier.  Fox News had to apologize and did so on 3 or 4 occasions for pushing the phony story but Jindal never did apologize.

The Mayor of Paris is reported to possibly looking at a suit against Fox News for their slander reporting.  Other leaders in Europe have criticized Jindal and Fox News for their fairy tale reporting.  Neither Fox nor Jindal could identify where the "No Go Zones" were located when asked.  Those "No Go Zones" are as elusive as Iraq's WMD and the scandal called Benghazi that was fabricated by the Fox News Network.

The propaganda of Fox and Jindal is just one of too many examples of their radical conservative ideology.  Both will say any thing to get recognized and facts are not part of their vocabulary.  Jindal will be leaving office in another 12 months and will leave Louisiana in the same sad fiscal shape as George W. Bush left the United States in.  His successor will have to pick up the carnage like President Obama had to do.

The Fox News defines free speech as placing blame, division, a lack of being truthful and the fabricator of scandals that do not exist.  Fox is the network that relishes its role in decieving its own viewers.  They and Jindal are Toxic to American ideals and values.


This commentary written by Joe Lorio

The Republican Party Is Consistent: But Unfortunately, Consistently Wrong.

The democratic controlled congress during President Obama's early years in office passed the President's policies that are responsible for the great turn around in the economy, job creation,  reducing the federal deficit and lowering the unemployment rate.  The democrats answered the call in face of the worst economic recession left by the previous republican administration.  The republicans in congress voted against the President's policies and in fact predicted doom and gloom for the economy, job creation and increasing the federal deficit if that legislation was passed by congress.  And they were proven wrong.

And if that sounds familiar its because you heard the same doom and gloom predictions when the democratic controlled congress passed President Clinton's economic and deficit reduction plan in 1993.  And when the Clinton administration balanced the first federal budget since L.B. Johnson in fiscal 1969, the republicans in congress tried to take credit for that.  But Clinton wisely reminded them they had nothing to do with it and did not invite them to the party celebration by the democrats.  And then just this month Mitch McConnel, the lead republican obstructionist proclaimed his party was responsible for the economic good news under Obama.  McConnell and his party are consistent in their failed predictions.  It should be noted that all republicans in the House and Senate voted against President Clinton's plan.

Learning from the past in order to create a better future is not a virture of the republican party.  Being so wrong on a consistent basis allows the voters to understand just why republican administrations have very little accomplishments moving the country and the people forward.  In fact their only policy in the past 30 plus years has been trickle down economics which has proven not to be a policy at all.

President Obama's economic policies have been a success but republicans will still oppose the President for the next two years regardless what proposals he introduces.  Its part of their "stand for nothing" S.O.P.


This commentary written by Joe Lorio

Why BP Should Be Assessed The Maximum Fine Under The Federal Clean Water Act.

This week will start the trial that will decide BP's penalty for the Macondo well blow out and oil spill.  Judge Carl Barbier has decided the evidence supports 3.19 million gallons of oil spilled in the Gulf Of Mexico during the disaster.  The Clean Water Act allows a fine for each barrel of oil spilled and in this case the maximum fine would be $13.7 billion.  This writer believes BP should be fined the maximum allowed for the pollution it caused for the following reasons.

A)   The oil industry's position prior to the spill was that the industry had the equipment and technology available to timely plug an offshore blowout, cap the well and remove any spilled oil in the waters of the Gulf before it reached shore.  The fact was that they had no such equipment or technology to timely do any of the above and oil flowed into the Gulf for 87days.

B)   11 Rig workers lost their lives in the blowout and Judge Barbier has ruled that several of BP's actions leading up to the spill were negligent and that each of those negligent acts amounted to "gross negligence" when taking together.

C)   The BP blowout was the worst such disaster in the Gulf of Mexico and the oil industry should be sent a message that any such future accidents federal regulations will be enforced to the maximum.

The blowout was a sad chapter in offshore drilling in the Gulf.  The disaster went on too long for an industry with over 40 years of experience of drilling in the Gulf who would brag about its offshore technology, safety awareness and ability to operate safely.  BP should bite the bullet, pay the fine like a responsible corporation and move on.  The Exxon Valdez tanker spill dragged on in litigatin for 20 years after the disaster.

That should not happen concerning the BP situation.


Note:  See my previous commentary titled, "The Untold Story of The BP Oil Spill In the Gulf of Mexico" dated 5/6/10


This commentary written by Joe Lorio

Another First For "PolitiDose"

The chairman of the Republican National Committee confirmed once again what "PolitiDose" has been saying for years that republicans have no accomplishments so they will personally attack any democrat to avoid talking about their own failures.  Now comes Reince Priebus, Chairman of the RNC who publically said the republicans will personally attack former President Clinton's personal life if Hillary runs for the democratic nomination in 2016.  Its the same old republican con game.

The republican party campaign of 2016 will use personal attacks against any democratic candidate but will be more hateful if Hillary runs because their party fear her the most as an opponent.  The republican's hateful attacks against President Obama is only a prelude to the 2016 campaign.  This wirter believes if Hillary runs she will be able to take care of herself.  Republicans are still burning that they could not defeat Bill Clinton and that he left office with an approval rating so much higher than any republican President.  They met the same fate against Barrack Obama.  They could not defeat him so they are still trying to destroy his time as President.

The Fox News Network and other conservative news outlets have already begun their attacks so the republican noise machine will stay noisy for the foreseeable future.  Its hell when you are a republican and conservative and feel you have to decieve your own supporters with such trash talk.   Is there any republican out there who feels he should just stand up and be an American and tell the right wingers in his party to go take a hike?  This writer is not holding his breath.


This commentary written by Joe Lorio