tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31724384051749683022024-03-07T22:12:33.858-08:00Eagles for America - WillisJeff B. Willishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01507436173521876645noreply@blogger.comBlogger214125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3172438405174968302.post-13574638398662004122021-06-28T12:35:00.000-07:002021-06-28T12:35:11.593-07:00
Several years ago, I stumbled upon one of the most insightful books in memory: Colin Woodward's "American Nations."
American Nations segmented North America into a several nations, based on their initial entry on the continent. While the Maine based, Woodward acknowledged that many of the original settlers had moved on, their initial imprints remain today.
Dissecting "American Nations" is another topic for a different post. What is significant is that the nations crossed international lines.
Canadian Atlantic provinces share the same nation status, "Yankeedom," as New England.
Ditto for Western British Columbia, Western Oregon and Western Washington sharing membership in "The Left Coast."
North Dakota, Montana and Idaho, and Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta are members of the "Far West" family.
Surprisingly,Ontario is composed in the same footprint as Northern Ohio, Indiana, Illionis and Iowa. This nation, "The Midlands," originally entered through Pennsylvania.
The significance of these distinctions is that the populations share major commonalities, most specifically language, race, and religion.
Canada has 37 million residents. Almost nine million live in largely French speaking, Quebec. Quebec is part of another American nation accurately named, "New France." This distinction is shared by most of South Louisiana.
Another nearly five million live in British Columbia, west of the 120th parallel. This is the "Left Coast" region which actually spans as far south as California. However, for this illustration, we will confine it to the proposed nation of "Cascadia."
A number of maps have been drawn of Cascadia. In this post, we define it as "Oregon and Washinton, west of the 120% parallel of longitude and north of Coos County, Oregon. For those not familiar with Tim Draper's "Six Californias," Coos County, Oregon is part of the proposed state of "Jefferson."
This defined map of Cascadia would be home to roughly 12.5 million people, in an area roughlty the size of Texas and New Mexico combined. lt's designated boundary would be west of the 120% parallel of longitude, excluding British Columbia east of the 120%. This area is about the size of Mississippi with about 600,000 residents.
Southeastern British Columbia,Eastern Washington and Eastern Oregon,are members of the "Far West" nation. There has even been a proposed American state called, "Lincoln."
Northwestern Oregon, Western Washington and Western B.C., which would make up Cascadia, is a beautiful part of the planet! It is a land rich in resources. Currently the demographic makeup is approximately 91% White, 5% Asian, 1% Hispanic, 1% African, 1% Native American and 1% other.
Cascadia would be renowned world wide as a progressive hotbed for expression and individualization. It's embracement of Socialism and Environmentalism suggests that Cascadia would be the consummate white liberals' paradise.
Could Cascadia survive? And, assuming that it was allowed to create itself unmolested, what countries would it allign with?
Nobody truly knows!
We do know that many of it's more affluent residents fled Hong Kong after Great Britain's 1997 lease expired. To say that these people are no friend of the CCP is an understatement! It's also common knowledge that the Soviet Union was predicting American Balkanization seventy years ago.
In today's divided America, two reactions could take place. Either the country would see it as secession, uniting to quell a possible threat. OR, they would consider further Balkanization.
Jeff B. Willishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01507436173521876645noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3172438405174968302.post-86606185263335599582020-06-13T04:50:00.000-07:002020-06-21T08:00:59.401-07:00Could Lincoln's 10% Plan Work for TrumpIn my upcoming book, "Conveyance," some of the darker nooks and crannies of Abraham Lincoln's presidency are recounted. Most Americans would find them difficult, if not impossible to believe!<br />
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Conveyance is a Reconstruction offering largely covering a time period between May 10th, 1865 and Halloween, 1866. The war had barely concluded. The painful memories were still fresh on the countries mind. The setting is Louisiana, where Abraham Lincoln had established his now infamous "10% plan."<br />
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Lincoln never wavered from his resolve that there were sufficient loyalists in all departing Southern states to justify representation. He sought to bring them back to the table; resuming their place in the American family.<br />
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Lincoln believed that if a mere 10% of the populations of those seceding states might swear a loyalty oath to the United States of America, they should seat their state's representatives in the House and Senate, without prejudice. His was a plan that was not embraced by the more extreme members of his party.<br />
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Contemporary application of Lincoln's plan could actually be rationalized!<br />
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A case can be made that America is currently experiencing a "cold civil war." We are unquestionably more divided than at any time since 1861! The question becomes, "where is the tipping point?" In 1861, it was Fort Sumter. <br />
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Unlike 1861, the divide is not sectional. It is ideological. Also missing is that overriding moral issue of slavery. The sides are decisively drawn: "Faith based National Populism" versus "Secular Global Socialism."<br />
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In 2016 Donald Trump connected with a segment of the American population, National Review described as the "disaffecteds." Hillary Clinton was less complimentary in her labeling them as "a basket of deplorables." Unfortunately for her, they voted.<br />
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These "deplorables" represent 20% of the nation's population. According to NR, "23% are non-white, 90% have no party affiliation and their average household income hovers around $30,000 per year. <br />
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Joe Biden's embrace of open borders, T.P.P.,NAFTA and his globalist agenda directly threatens their previously meager yet rapidly improving livelihoods. Trump is credited with their recent gains.<br />
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Immigration clearly falls under Federal jurisdiction, per the 10th amendment. For a state to declare itself as "sanctuary" in defiance to federal immigration laws, puts them technically in "defacto secession." Currently California, Colorado, Illinois, Massachusetts, New Jersey,New Mexico, Oregon,and Vermont are in defacto secession.<br />
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The President could invoke Lincoln's 10% plan in those eight states declaring themselves "sanctuaries." He would invite those loyal to the United States of America to establish a loyalist government within their state. If 10% came forth, they would proceed with business as usual, casting the 2020 Presidential electors and seating their states Congressmen and Senators.<br />
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No doubt such an overture would cause a stir in those states, as well as the nation. But it would be months before opposition would become adequately situated to stop the momentum. Any lower court injunction efforts would likely be ignored.<br />
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Donald Trump would enter his first 100 days in 2021 with a Senate super majority and control in the House. This would allow him to pass strict voter I.D. laws, the key to saving our Democracy. When the populace loses faith in the integrity in our electoral system, it's over. Sadly, we are there!<br />
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Trump would also implement a merit based immigration system, similar to Canada's. He would define birthright citizenship and set boundaries for chain migration. With the help of his Senate super majority, he would pass legislation making English the nation's official language. <br />
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Immigration applicants would be required to pass a fourth grade English proficiency examination as a prerequisite for green card. This is the current standard in Australia and New Zealand. This measure effectively accelerates assimilation, as those nations have proven. <br />
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During his presidency, Abraham Lincoln closed over three hundred newspapers, subsequently interning dozens of Editors and Correspondents. In many cases, Habius Corpus was suspended. Then, as would be now, there were howls and protests nationally.<br />
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Lincoln justified his action in phrasing, "We will shoot a simple soldier boy for desertion. Yet must we allow an agitator to incite riots and unrest?" <br />
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These measures were considered "draconian" then, as they would be now. Yet Lincoln knew that anything less would have ended in the break-up of the nation.<br />
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Critics acclaimed that Lincoln severely "trampled upon" the constitution. Defenders counter in asserting that he did so to save the constitution, and with it, the nation.<br />
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It's highly probable that Donald J. Trump has been studying and assessing Lincoln, as of late.<br />
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Jeff B. Willishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01507436173521876645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3172438405174968302.post-61666710777016404162020-01-19T08:18:00.001-08:002020-01-19T08:18:50.839-08:00How Trump Walks Away with the 2020 Election"Any job requiring use of all or part of an Americans' social security number will be precluded from offshore outsourcing."<br />
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Granted, I think the President will easily win re-election. Still, if we are talking about a "knockout," this ploy would likely do it.<br />
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Do you recall when former House Speaker, John Boehner asked,"where are the jobs?" His question came on the heels of a favorable stock market report. It was called the "jobless recovery."<br />
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Where the speaker fell short was the telltale answer. "The jobs have been sent overseas. There, the price of labor is more affordable."<br />
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I shudder when I think about the Trans Pacific Partnership(T.P.P.)" Lauded by Hillary Clinton, Barack Obama and Joe Biden, as the key to arresting Chinese growth in the far east, little was mentioned regarding the resulting lost jobs in America. Especially in the automotive industry. <br />
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Anyone who has dealt with A. T. & T. or J.P. Morgan Chase can attest to the slowness and cumbersomeness equated with dealing with their offshore help! Sadly,most of the Fortune 500 companies have opted for this marginally inefficient, yet cheap source of labor. Customers are told, "that's the way that it is."<br />
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Yet, if legislation were passed, precluding this practice, who would win? These companies would promise massive rate increase. But, how massive? And if these jobs were restricted to American soil, where would you place them? Who would be the recipients? Don't we already a labor shortage in the United States?<br />
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Fow now, yes. But, with increasing use of automation, that shortage may be short lived.<br />
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Without question, these large companies will protest vehemently! They will remind the country that we live in a global society and it is important to do as New York Times Columnist, Thomas Friedman reminded in his book, The World is Flat:"Level the global playing field; because Americans have supposedly lived much better than the rest of the world."<br />
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Like Donald Trump or not, one thing can be concluded. The President is an "Americanist." Those opposing his agenda are generally globalists. <br />
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Most Americans are understandably angry with their jobs being shipped away. Not only are they jobs that could have gone to an American, but their foreign counterparts are often slow and vague with limited English skills. <br />
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Who would want these jobs?<br />
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Call center jobs would be ideal for three groups. (a) Older workers, (b) students and (c) part-time spouses.<br />
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There are many parents who are available for M-F 9-3 jobs. That's thirty hours; technically full time. If they are paid even eight or nine dollars per hour, it's a regular paycheck. Students are always available to work off-times such as six to midnight or weekends. As far as older workers, between 62 and 66, a 40 hour per week job, paying eight dollars an hour is gold! Because, it won't compromise their social security entitlement. And, they gain access to the companies group health insurance plans.<br />
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Where would you place these jobs? <br />
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There are inexpensive states with higher unemployment numbers than the national average who would gratefully accept them. <br />
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We are not talking exclusively call center jobs! I recall visiting several Chase Banks during the last decade. You would see empty offices and empty cubicles. A large number of 36k per year Universal Banker jobs had been shipped abroad! Because, a Universal Banker in the far east goes for 5k per year! Where a manager might cost 75-80k per year in the U.S., the cost runs 15-20k in India or the Philippines!<br />
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Ever wonder why dealing with credit repositories is so difficult? For starters, they are housed in South America, the Philippines and India. When calling, you are first sent thought the "seven layers of automation." Then, assuming that you're still on the line, you'll be speaking to an offshore representative; with all of your personal information at their fingertips!<br />
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It's positively scary!<br />
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Identity theft continues to be the fastest growing crime in America. This fact alone should support preclusion of any offshore outsourcing that requires use of all or part of an Americans social security number. <br />
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The positioning statement would be cut and dry! "Those not supporting this initiative are unAmerican, unpatriotic and unfit for leadership." <br />
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In other words, "go to hell globalists! In effect you are nothing short of traitors to your country!"<br />
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When seen in this light, it becomes increasingly easy to identify the "snakes in the woodpile!"<br />
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No doubt the President would make enemies with such a proposal! But when has that stopped him? <br />
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He has spoken repeatedly of a "rigged system." Here again, it is manifested. <br />
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Jeff B. Willishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01507436173521876645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3172438405174968302.post-12909085695851471502019-11-03T11:21:00.000-08:002019-11-03T11:22:28.244-08:0017th Amendment Repeal a Viable Alternative to Term LimitsSenator Mitch McConnell was asked. "What do you think about term limits?"<br />
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His answer. "You already have them!"<br />
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"Oh?"<br />
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"You have them; every time that you go to the polls." The Senator said coyly. <br />
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The place was Eastern Kentucky University. It was 2012. Mitch McConnell was speaking on behalf of the EKU Future Business leaders. An audience member had asked what was on the tips of many tongues.<br />
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That the Senator failed to note the advantageous position generally held by incumbents was not surprising. Incumbents nearly always have more money. A challenger needs to have deep pockets, OR some serious patrons who will make up for the shortfall. <br />
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Democrats had reason to believe that 2014 might be their year. Their candidate, Alison Lundergan Grimes was a rising star in the Democratic Party. Funds were pouring in from California and the East, in support of her candidacy. <br />
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For a brief period, it had looked like Mitch might get a primary challenge. Then businessman, now Kentucky Governor, Matt Bevin was the Tea Party favorite. I recall getting a scathing note from one of their members, reminding me of mcConnell's alleged corruption.<br />
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I defended McConnell, stating that he might have negatives, but would have a better chance of defeating Grimes. Not that Mitch needed it! He reached into his war chest and soon, Bevin was an after thought!<br />
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In the general election, McConnell continued his generous use of resources to position Grimes as a "puppet for out of state special interests and "Bay area" liberalism. The election wasn't close. <br />
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When the Convention of States organizers came to Kentucky, they quickly realized that "terms limits" would be a non-starter. As one supporter phrased, "Mitch McConnell simply has too much power." Nobody here is interested in including term limits in the petition.<br />
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Why?<br />
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Fairly easy answer. How would Kentucky benefit from replacing the Senate Majority Leader, who happened to represent the Bluegrass state, with a freshman? <br />
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Arkansans faced that same quandary in the 1960's, with Wilbur Mills. He was anything but popular. People outside of Little Rock loathed him. But, he chaired the House Ways and Means Committee, controlling vast amounts of money. Did the state really want to replace him with a freshman?<br />
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I recall then Texas Governor, Rick Perry's rationale regarding term limits. "If Bureaucrats know that a politician is going to be term limited, they'll just wink at him and essentially stall until his term ends." In other words, term limits would not work UNLESS Bureaucrats were also term limited! Which, might not be a bad idea! But, it would be complicated.<br />
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A better solution might be to take Perry's suggestion that we abolish the 17th amendment. As in, allow the state Senates to select the state's federal Senators, which is the method the founders originally laid out. <br />
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At first glance, it sounds like an unpopular concept. No longer would U.S. Senators be elected in a direct primary. We would return to the way things used to be: The state Senates would make the call. Sounds less Democratic. Yet...<br />
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Benjamin Franklin used the analogy of "pouring hot tea into a saucer before drinking it." <br />
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America was founded as a Republic, lest we forget. The concept of allowing our state Senators to choose our federal Senators, goes hand in hand with retaining control at the state level. In other words, making it more difficult for out-of-state special interests to buy a Senate seat.<br />
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Three 2018 midterms come to mind: Michigan, Ohio and Wisconsin. All three states had Republican controlled Senates. Would Deb Stabenow, Sherrod Brown and Tammy Baldwin have won reelection in those states; if the decision had been made by those individual state Senates? Probably not!<br />
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What about Mitch McConnell?<br />
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Kentucky's state Senate has been Republican controlled for a while. My guess is, McConnell would skate along, without opposition. No small state is going to relinquish power voluntarily! But, if he were challenged, it would not be about who had the most money to spend! <br />
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Thus, those supporting term limits may want to pivot to a new strategy: "Repeal the 17th amendment." If handled as the founders intended, the pressure would shift to their incumbent state Senators, insuring that government remained closer to the people, as was intended.<br />
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Even though the verdict might be the same, it would be a verdict that was determined from within the state. Not outside.<br />
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Jeff B. Willishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01507436173521876645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3172438405174968302.post-23159742744845398752019-10-31T15:57:00.000-07:002019-11-03T07:33:42.709-08:00Democrats Impeachment Antics Could Lead to Civil WarAre the Democrats crazy?<br />
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What's happening at this moment is, to quote Dr. Alan Dershowitz, "Stalinist." <br />
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Trick or Treat!<br />
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The closed door proceedings currently taking place in a windowless Washington D.C. basement, are reminiscent of Antoli Rybokov's Glasnost thriller, "Children of the Arbat." <br />
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The setting is Moscow. The year is 1934. General Secretary, Joseph Stalin is flexing his muscles. Suddenly, fear is enveloping the Russian countrymen in a manner similar to a wet blanket in thirty degree weather. I shiver at the thought!<br />
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Yet, we have those in our own country who are relishing this moment. Maybe even embracing it! Now, they are moving to the next step: A coup against the American people. It starts with kicking out a duly elected president.<br />
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2016 was a surprise. To everyone! Especially those entrenched Washington elites. There would be no way that Trump could win. And, if he did, there was always "the insurance policy."<br />
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Nobody asked the question, "what if Hillary loses and the insurance policy proves inadequate?"<br />
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Well, we can always impeach the guy! Can't we?<br />
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There is a problem alright! That problem amounts to the people with the desire, and guns, absolutely love Donald Trump. Don't think for a second that an impeachment will end with quite acquiescement! It won't. Instead, we will see violence on this continent not seen in 155 years! <br />
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Here are the facts. The military is behind Trump. Homeland security is behind Trump. Law enforcement is behind the President. Most importantly, "armed America" is with Donald J. Trump. <br />
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In a recent National Rifle Association finding, it was discovered that there are roughly 312 million firearms in America that are accounted for! There are probably that many more unaccounted for. 90% of these firearms are in hands of 30% of the population. Get the picture!<br />
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Democrats need to quit trying to change the 2016 election outcome. They lost! Yes, it may be that Hillary Clinton received the most popular votes! But, she was soundly beaten electorally. So, if you don't like the electoral college system, propose a constitutional amendment and abolish it. Until then, shut the f...k up! It's over! Move on! <br />
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Democrats need to wait just a short 53 weeks and they can defeat Donald Trump at the polls. That isn't that long, if you think about it. So why all these divisive, marginally illegal hearings?<br />
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Maybe it's because the party knows that it's going to lose in 2020. The Democratic party is hopelessly compromised. There is no longer the party of Harry S. Truman, John F. Kennedy or even Bill Clinton. They're history. At best, today's party is reminiscent of Britain's contemporary Labor Party. At worst, it has a Stalinist hue.<br />
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Meanwhile, the American economy is humming. People are feeling it! More money in their pockets. New cars in their garages. Who would want to return to the "Great Recession?"<br />
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Old habits die noisily! So... Do Dems want to try to impeach this president? If so they could nullify all gains made over the past 50 years! Take a moment to reflect on this question...<br />
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Here's what will happen. The left will be beaten horrifically. It would be a whipping that will later be described as the worst that recorded warfare has had to share! Thousands, if not millions, would no longer be with us. Including some dead Congressmen! <br />
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Nancy Pelosi would be sipping Chardonnay from the porch of her Lucerne mansion, provided that she could slip out of the country unscathed. More than likely her San Francisco bayfront mansion would have guests sipping wine too; from Nancy's private wine cellar.<br />
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Adam Schiff might not be so lucky! It's probable that he would become acquainted with a "blow torch and a pair of pliers."<br />
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Sanctuary cities would be encircled by little mounds. Planted atop of these mounds would be signs reading, "here lie the Communist traitors." Previously, they were known as "ANTIFA." That was before those "deplorables" from "fly over America" got ahold of them!<br />
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The "great reckoning" as they would later call it, would right many wrongs in America. Starting with taking Harry S. Truman's advice and precluding federal workers from unionizing.<br />
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Currently, the average federal worker earns 70% more than their private sector counterparts; with better benefits and job security. <br />
For those Article Fivers pushing for a balanced budget amendment, this will get us there; in much quicker and less painful fashion. It amounts to taking Ronald Reagan's positioning statement literally: "reduce the cost of government."<br />
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In the end, America would cleanse itself. Defacto Communism would be expunged from the continent. California would undergo an "1869 style" Reconstruction. Voter fraud would be virtually eliminated. Bias would disappear from college campuses. Health care would be less expensive and more available. Real environmental policies would be in place. <br />
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Do Democrats want to go there? I don't think so! If they are lucky, they will simply lose the house and watch their executive hopes go out in Elizabeth Warren splendor.<br />
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The alternative would be quite unpleasant.Jeff B. Willishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01507436173521876645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3172438405174968302.post-21544539009867892592019-10-12T09:51:00.000-07:002019-10-12T09:51:51.122-07:00S.E.C. "Pod System" Would Enhance Overall ExperienceVery recently a "POD System" introduced an alternative to divisions in the S.E.C. I thought that it merited study.<br />
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The conference does have fixed rivalry games that fans want to continue. Yet, other than one fixed opponent from the other division, you don't see the other side of the conference too often. Today, Arkansas will visit Lexington for the first time since 2008. L.S.U. has never been to Columbia, Missouri.<br />
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The proposal incorporates all schools into one 14-team league. Top two teams play in the S.E.C. Championship game. Three "Annuals" play every year. This is the "POD." The remaining ten schools appear every two years. <br />
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More on the POD System shortly. There is another "politically doable" idea that may merit some discussion. <br />
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University President and former U.S. Senator, David Boren has expressed restlessness with the Big Twelve and their inability to expand from the current ten teams. It is entirely possible that when the next round of league expansions come, Oklahoma will be in every conversation.<br />
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The S.E.C. looks to be the ideal solution! There are currently fourteen teams. Adding O.U. and "little brother," Oklahoma State would put the "Sooner" state in a form of low level hysteria! With few exceptions, it might solve the "must play rival" issue simultaneously!<br />
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I recall chatting, one-on-one with the late Frank Broyles, during a basketball practice at Barnhill Arena, two weeks after the announced conference change in 1991. Broyles said that the preference was to place Vanderbilt in the West and Auburn in the East. "But Hootie Ingram(then A.D. at Alabama)insisted that Auburn must remain in the same division as Alabama."<br />
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When I described the newly proposed SEC West as the "blood and guts division, " and the East as the "powder puff division," Broyles countered, "The East will be tougher in Basketball."<br />
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The legendary football coach admitted his disdain for "eight and not seven" annual conference games.<br />
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Would Coach Broyles approve of the two Oklahoma schools joining the S.E.C.? I honestly don't know!<br />
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The split would amount to OU and OSU joining Arkansas, L.S.U.,Missouri, the Mississippi schools, and A&M, <br />
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The current eight-game conference season would remain in effect. Each school would play the remaining eight schools "twice in sixteen years." Unless, of course, they met in the SEC championship.<br />
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What might prove interesting is if Basketball elected to go "double round robin" in divisional games and "single round robin" for non-divisional opponents. That would result in a 22-game conference slate. Add a sixteen team tournament and you "are going to see a lot of each other!"<br />
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Oklahoma isn't a huge media market. From a television standpoint, it represents an expensive cost-per-point! OU will typically deliver a larger audience than the Dallas Cowboys! OSU is not slouchy! <br />
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Thus, the two Oklahoma schools would bring a rabid fan base and a relatively small number of TV households to the conference. Both have successful basketball programs. One competes for the football national championship most years.<br />
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In adding the Oklahoma schools, the SEC would be extending it's footprint, albeit not in a huge way. From the standpoint of adding two quality programs, it would be a "home run."<br />
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Still, I am not certain if I like this idea! A school like Arkansas would find itself more central to its opponents. Four of the eight schools, were part of the original Big 12 in 1992. Interestingly enough, Arkansas, L.S.U., Oklahoma and A & M were all Charter members of the Southwest Conference when it was originally founded in 1914.<br />
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L.S.U.'s response would be interesting. That the Mississippi Schools, Arkansas and A&M are old rivals, is good. The two biggest losses, Alabama and Auburn would be replaced with Oklahoma and Oklahoma State. Florida would disappear from the every year slate. Not too many Tiger tears would be shed over that!<br />
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I don't think Kentucky's fans would be enthusiastic about replacing Missouri and Mississippi State with Alabama and Auburn! Auburn fans could live with replacing L.S.U. and A & M with Tennessee and Florida. <br />
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In the end, some schools would come out more favorably than others. Yet is there any idea that would truly make everyone happy? <br />
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The POD system provides access to places fans want to travel! Don't forget, we are talking about a cultural zone! Many fans plan their vacations around S.E.C. football road games. It comes down to football and more. <br />
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The S.E.C. has some neat destinations! And, there are super neat places near those destinations!<br />
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I have a friend from Louisiana who contends that we should get rid of the common "opponent in the other division." He thinks "rotate two teams every year." This way, "any student athlete who stays four years could have a chance to play everyone at least once."<br />
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Rivalry games such as Alabama-Tennessee or Georgia-Auburn would simply not count as a conference game, assuming that the schools chose to continue their annual series.<br />
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Definitely some alternatives!<br />
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While, the POD System brings many advantages, it may be a difficult sell. In all too many instances, you'd hear, "if it ain't broke, don't fix it! That would be my prediction.<br />
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Regarding expansion, it may never happen. I would bet against it. Nobody wants to divide up the money! It might be possible to see Auburn move to the East and Missouri to the West. Outside of that, likely nothing. It looks like we're set. <br />
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Jeff B. Willishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01507436173521876645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3172438405174968302.post-37407816606113635882019-09-30T09:30:00.000-07:002019-10-02T04:11:18.111-07:00A.A.'s Should be Furious with Democrats, Neo-ConsThe first noticeable distinction between 2016 and 2019 is the number of new cars now occupying the roadways.<br />
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The second noticeable distinction between 2016 and 2019, are the increased numbers of black faces greeting you when you drive through a McDonalds, walk into a Kroger or enter a bank.<br />
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In essence, people who were looking in from the outside in '16, are now in the middle of things. Working! And, working for companies that provide benefits and longevity.<br />
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True, there are the cynics, who find disfavor in everything. Yet the fact that more Americans are working today than ever, can't be slighted! I hear the naysayers now. They called it "trickle down economics." As in, the rich get richer and the poor get the "crumbs." That was Nancy Pelosi's description.<br />
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Amazingly, even Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders, the two leading "progressive" candidates vying for the right to face Donald Trump in 2020, have deleted a major point. They have talked about the rich getting richer. But, they have been vague as to "how" the rich have gotten richer. <br />
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Here's a tip: The President's "American First" agenda is about, "charity beginning at home." In short, take care of Americans first!<br />
This translates to using every means possible to encourage American companies to keep their plants and factories within our shores. <br />
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Neo-Cons, such as Mitt Romney, Carly Fiorina and the late John McCain described themselves as "free traders." Which translates to, "the best jobs are those that can be outsourced."<br />
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The border crisis hasn't been solved, but is solvable. It's about "having the will" to solve it. Neither Progressives or Neo-Cons have showed must interest in a solution. Why should they? For Progressives it's about new voters. For Neo-Cons, it's about cheap labor. Never mind "who" in America gets hurt by this posture!<br />
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When you push for open borders, you hurt Americans at the bottom of the socioeconomic ladder. Traditionally, these Americans are black and brown. You do it by depressing the wage. When you have people slipping into the country, living in the shadows and accepting less for their labors, this is the result.<br />
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We're not exclusively talking about Eight-dollar-per-hour jobs! I recall my wife's friend's husband sharing a poignant story that exemplified "why" Corporate CEO's tend to be so wealthy. <br />
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"Roger," a $46,000 per year technician working in Hewlett Packard's Sacramento office, was called in one Friday. <br />
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His boss related, "I have some good news and some bad news, Roger. The bad news is that your job's being outsourced to India. The good news is that you'll be able to stay on six months; to train your Indian replacement."<br />
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Bad news! But, it could have been worse!<br />
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In the following weeks Roger learned that his Indian counterpart would be paid $9800 per year. This represented a significant savings for the company. As then CEO, Carly Fiorina phrased, "it's about acknowledging that ours is a global economy and we must make the necessary adjustments."<br />
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Donald Trump came on the scene and immediately saw the fallacies in the Trans Pacific Partnership. For Fortune 500 companies, it brought greater access to sweatshop East Asian labor. That it might compromise the American worker, well...<br />
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I recall a friend from J.P. Morgan Chase who whispered, "you see all the empty cubicles. These used to house 35k per year Universal Bankers. But why pay that when someone in the Philippines will do the same job for $7,000 per year?<br />
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I can't spite Warren or Sanders too much for their slip up. Neither are business people. They talk about increasing disparity of incomes. But has either come out with proposed legislation that would include, but not be limited to, a "prodigious outsourcing tax" for these American companies who choose to take their jobs offshore?<br />
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This China trade war is really not a trade war. It's about punishing American companies who elected to move their plants to Mainland China. Here they have been able to take advantage of the Totalitarian Chinese Government, the docile Chinese population and slave labor conditions. It does make for a better bottom line! <br />
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What mystifies me is "why" our mainstream media has not brought all of this to the nation's attention! Maybe it's because they too, are "globalists," caring little for their countrymen.<br />
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Even more baffling is why especially Black Americans have not seen through it! You look at long term Congressional members, Maxine Waters and Elijah Cummings then look at how people live in their districts. Then you ask, "how" can their constituents keep electing them! Stokely Carmichael once posed this question.<br />
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In short, they can hate Donald Trump with every ounce of vigor in their soul. He never promised that he was going to be their "buddy." What he has done is stood up for them; against Democrats advocating open borders and depressed wages and Neo-Cons seeking to siphon off their prosperity to a foreign country. <br />
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It thoroughly pisses me off! And I am not even Black!<br />
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Jeff B. Willishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01507436173521876645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3172438405174968302.post-68411150997014738542019-09-23T14:32:00.000-07:002019-09-24T06:09:52.456-07:00Healthcare Deal Possible with CompromiseNo topic has drawn more discussion or scrutiny than the nations Health Insurance crisis!<br />
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Notice I did not say, "health care" crisis. Why should I? We already have the finest health care in the world!The issue is with insurance. <br />
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The "Affordable Health Care Act," AKA Obamacare, brought more people into the family. But, it fell woefully short of it's goal. There are entirely too many people still not covered. Many have watched their premiums skyrocket, their deductibles jump ridiculously.<br />
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There are winners and losers with Obamacare. <br />
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I know a family of three, previously not covered, that qualified for better than $20,000 in free health care. Not a cent out of their pocket! Another family of four, watched their deductibles climb to $5000, their monthly premium shoot from $400 during W's last year in office to more than $900 in 2016.<br />
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I recall hearing from this woman, a part time Realtor for Keller Williams singing "hey, hey the witch is dead. Which ole witch, the wicked witch." You recall that iconic song from the Wizard of Oz. She was singing it the day after Hillary Clinton's defeat.<br />
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Trump's plan ran off the rails, thanks in part to John McCain. The newly elected President never was in sync with then Speaker, Paul Ryan. In retrospect, he would have been better off tabling health care until after the tax swap. <br />
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One problem is that we are paying entirely too much for pharmaceuticals. Even worse, is that many of our political leaders are receiving monetary help from "big Pharm." Nobody likes to bite the hand that feeds them. Unfortunately, it opens the door for corruption. Herein lies the dilemma.<br />
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Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren advance their aspiration for "Medicare for all." In theory, we do have a rich nation and probably can afford to provide something for everyone. But, there will be conditions. And restrictions. Neither Warren or Sanders want to go there.<br />
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So, we are back to square one. Is there some middle ground here? And could this middle ground be found that utilized capitalism and the free market to bring the cost of good healthcare to affordable levels? <br />
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Maybe. But, it would require a compromise. Any real compromise will result in neither party being totally happy. That's why they call it a compromise. So here goes! And, I guarantee you! Neither Republican or Democrat will be overly thrilled...<br />
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The starting point is "pre-existing conditions." All of the Democrats and the majority of Republicans are together on the need to protect Americans with pre-existing conditions. <br />
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The watchwords are "it could be me." For those who have faced insurance companies and been doomed to impossible costs know! Half of the bankruptcies in America are Medical BK's. <br />
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This brings us to the proposal: "What IF we designated a national sales tax, perhaps as little a "on-fourth of one cent," and used it to establish a "Catastrophic pool." The "pool" would be unavailable until an annual claim reached $10,000. It could be one claim, or cumulative claims. <br />
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Upon reaching $10,000, "80% of subsequent claims total would be covered," leaving the insured with a "20% co-pay." This would climb to 85%, when an annual claim/claims reached $50,000 and cap at 90% when the claim/claims hit $100,000.<br />
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So total cumulative claims of $13,800 would qualify for $3,040 from the Catastrophic pool. $65000 in annual cumulative claims would yield $44,750 from the pool. <br />
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We currently have 1300 insurance companies nationwide. This number would increase dramatically. The consumer would be allowed to cross state lines, as they do with auto insurance. "Aflac like" companies selling inexpensive "Cat Pool" supplemental policies would appear overnight. <br />
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I can hear the moans and groans from both sides! <br />
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Democrats will say(correctly) that this was a "regressive tax." Proportionally, "more of the burden will fall upon the poor."<br />
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Republicans will say(correctly) that "this is universal health care." Besides! "Can we trust the federal government with such a money pot?"<br />
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All concerns are valid. Let's address the last one first. Clearly noted stipulations prohibiting any Cat-Pool monies drawn out for other needs would be an imperative! In other words, "no borrowing from Peter to pay Paul!"<br />
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Regarding the "regressive tax on the poor" argument, remember this: The poor will still be buying beer, cigarettes and eating at McDonalds! So if a Big Mac, French fries, a pie and a milkshake, come to $10, the buyer will have contributed 2.5 cents to the pool.<br />
Smart money says, "they won't miss it!"<br />
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Meanwhile, new insurance companies will be popping up all over the place! For the typical American family seeking a "80-20 co-pay featuring a $500 deductible for $150 per month," they'll be in luck! A family in Waynesville, North Carolina might ultimately contract with Sun Valley Health Insurance of Pocatello, Idaho. But so what? It's about shopping for the best deal.<br />
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This would be possible BECAUSE the "Cat-Pool" will serve as a backstop in the event of a large claim. So the small Idaho based company can offer inexpensive policies to middle class American families, without the worry of a few large claims putting them out of business.<br />
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Americans with pre-existing conditions would have protection. There would be companies offering not so good deals to cover the first $10,000. And, there would always be the option to self insure. Especially if the insured was a Cancer survivor, was <br />
taking nitroglycerine or something equated with high risk.<br />
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Of course, there will be losers. The large insurance companies will ultimately become reinsurance companies, working on a lower margin. I recall a Blue Cross-Blue Shield representative in Indianapolis telling me that their profit margin was something around 12%. That's pretty lucrative!<br />
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What about the Pharmaceutical companies? Why ARE we paying damn near twice as much as the rest of the world?<br />
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Hate Trump or love him, he IS trying to address this problem. Democrats need to join him. Forget about who gets credit! We need this to happen and happen now!<br />
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Would "1/4 of a penny" tax be enough? Not certain. But, it would be a starting point. <br />
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Bottom line with this idea is, "Republicans could say that they drastically lowered health care costs for all Americans including those with pre-existing conditions." Democrats could accurately attest to the fact that they delivered on their goal of "Universal Health Care" for all of the country.<br />
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In the end, not perfect but fair.<br />
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Jeff B. Willishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01507436173521876645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3172438405174968302.post-71912639455432441582019-09-22T13:00:00.002-07:002019-09-22T13:00:34.656-07:00Medicinal Cannabis Here to Stay. What Next?I agree wholeheartedly with the President. The disposition of Recreational Marijuana should be decided at the state level. Read the 10th amendment.<br />
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Recently I spoke with Kentucky State Representative, Travis Brenda about why he opposed legalizing medicinal Marijuana. His comments reflected sincere concern. But, they sounded like they had been prepared by former Education secretary, Bill Bennett.<br />
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There is a haunting misnomer that Marijuana is and always has been, a "gateway drug." It is. But, in a different way than most perceive.<br />
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In the states that have not already legalized Cannabis, one must get it through the black market. As expected, the black market is what it implies: a source whereby illegal substances may be procured. As in, "anything goes!"<br />
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People trying to buy Marijuana through such a source can generally find other "controlled substances, ranging from Meth, Heroin and Cocaine" to name a few. A black market source can often place a seeker in touch with the requested supplier.<br />
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Take Marijuana away from this black market source and the distribution channel is altered. In the seventies, they referred to this guy as a "stash sharer." He would buy a pound of pot, sell off three fourths, keeping the remaining quarter for himself. The result: His weed was free.<br />
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With legalization, the "stash sharer" is all but eliminated. Most users opted to buy their smoke at dispensaries. Those too poor or too cheap to buy it from a dispensary, grow it themselves. You might say, the "stash sharer" has become an anachronism in states that have legalized Recreational Cannabis.<br />
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Medicinal is legal in 28 states and counting. And, for good reason! It's a proven remedy for nausea. Not to mention migraines, glaucoma and even excessive stress! What a lot of people don't know is that it's been used medicinally for ages! In fact, Marijuana in general wasn't criminalized until 1937.<br />
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So, what's the issue with those still opposed to legalizing medicinal? Actually, it's pretty simple: "They seek to not bite the hand that feeds them!"<br />
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Show me a politician who opposes medicinal legalization but accepts campaign contributions from Pharmaceutical companies and I will show you corruption. There is simply no other way to express it!<br />
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A close friend who recently had stomach surgery complained that ONLY Cannabis brought relief to the accompanying nausea. But, when he tried to find it, he quickly learned that his state, Tennessee didn't allow Medicinal. The guy was a securities dealer and as straight as an arrow and as vanilla as Mr. Rogers!<br />
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What did he do? His secretary hooked him up on the black market. My friend didn't want to go this route! He admittedly resented being presented with such a quandary! As he confessed, "I am no pot smoker! I hardly drink! But, damn it! It brings relief like nothing else(The doctor had previously prescribed a number of different drugs. None brought relief).<br />
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"Anyone who opposes legalization of medicinal Cannabis," my friend added, "is either dogmatic, sadistic or both!" His doctor concurred.<br />
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Sadly for this gentlemen and countless others, there are those "Sadist-Dogmatics" who do exist! Former U.S. Attorney General, Jeff Sessions was typical.<br />
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As earlier stated, I believe that the decision to legalize recreational Marijuana should be left up to the states. However, the question of making Medicinal legal in all 50 states should be done. <br />
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Nancy Pelosi has the votes, both in the House and the Senate. The President will sign it. Why she hasn't already introduced legislation is political. <br />
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Colorado's Republican Senator, Cory Gardner is up for reelection. He is a proponent of such legislation. If a bill legalizing Medicinal at the Federal level were to pass, he would be largely credited for it. <br />
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Jeff B. Willishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01507436173521876645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3172438405174968302.post-80730032282205895062019-09-17T08:38:00.000-07:002019-09-17T08:38:40.574-07:00Article Five Convention Could Save AmericaOur founding fathers were insightful guys!<br />
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From the outset, there was always a lurking fear that the government that they were creating might someday get away from the people that it was supposed to serve. Sadly that day has come.<br />
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I have attended "Convention of States" meetings. I have read carefully their positions. Most, if not all, I support. <br />
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For those not familiar, here is the skinny: We need 34 states to agree to hold a convention. But first, we must define the stark distinction between an Article Five convention and a Constitutional Convention. It's confusing!<br />
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In an Article Five Convention, the states "pre-set conditions within the existing structure." In a constitutional convention, it's more about "rewriting the government outside the existing structure."<br />
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I have heard horrible predictions by noteworthy people, regarding the dangers of a Constitutional convention. It amounts to anything can happen, depending on "who" is most influencing the convention.<br />
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An Article Five Convention poses fewer surprises. 34 states meet and make alterations within the existing structure. <br />
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Co-founder, Michael Ferris explains the distinction. The objectives are,<br />
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Reducing the size and scope of the Federal Government.<br />
Fiscal restraint through a balanced budget amendment.<br />
Enacting term limits for elected federal officials, including Supreme Court Justices.<br />
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Thus far, 15 of the needed 34 states have signed on.<br />
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When I attended a rally held in Frankfort, Kentucky it became painfully apparent Kentucky was not going to be an easy addition. Many in attendance who otherwise supported the measures, didn't like the idea of term limiting a Kentucky Senator, who had made his way to Majority leader!<br />
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There are others who are saying, "no so fast," when it comes to a balanced budget amendment!<br />
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In short, while the proposed measures gather justified support, the question becomes, "can we ever expect to gain participation from the required 34 states?<br />
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Here is a thought. "What if we focused on some critical issues that would address some current stalemates in Washington?"<br />
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Such as,<br />
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+- Making English official language in the U.S.<br />
+- Mandating that ONLY American Citizens are allowed to vote<br />
+- Requiring that all voters present photo identification at a polling center. No "ballot harvesting." Any absentee ballot would need to be applied for at the county clerk's office thirty days prior to the election.<br />
+- Congressional Representation would be based of U.S. Citizens, not persons. When the Constitution was written, there was no such thing as an "American Citizen." You were a citizen of the state you resided.<br />
+- Birthright citizenship would be defined as "any person born in the U.S. who was previously engaged in involuntary servitude or who had no previous status."<br />
+- Chain Migration would be defined as "an immediate family member only."<br />
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I have no doubt that we can get 34 states to agree to these specifications!<br />
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Make no mistake! There should be discussion regarding reducing the size and scope of the federal government. Term limits should be on the table! And we must get our fiscal house in order! Yet, can we do these things before it's too late! <br />
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For skeptics, take a look at California! Facts are facts! We are running out of time!<br />
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America stands at a crossroads! We can "swing for the fences," hoping to hit a home run. Or, we can play "small ball," temporarily settling for singles and doubles. <br />
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It begins with returning control of the country to American citizens. <br />
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Jeff B. Willishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01507436173521876645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3172438405174968302.post-22533194543123478802019-09-08T13:55:00.000-07:002019-09-11T10:25:30.214-07:00Green New Deal May Run Through Russia- Part IILast month, I posted what some might consider a preposterous idea: "Working with Russia to reduce global carbon emissions." <br />
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In fairness, there might be an insightful few who would ask, "Even if we offered to foot the tab, could we honestly trust Putin to do his part?"<br />
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To fully gain a valid answer, one merely needs to place themselves in Putin's, and most Russians' shoes for an instant. Their predicted response would be, "could we trust the Americans who were making such a proposal?"<br />
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Which brings us to their next question: "Which Americans?"<br />
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Russian intelligentsia concludes correctly that there are two Americas, vying for power and control in the United States. They have identified the two factions as "faith based, national populists," who are backing the President, and "secular, global socialists," who oppose him. <br />
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To do anything with the United States amounts to knowing "which" America that you are negotiating with. <br />
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Did the Russian leadership favor Trump's election. Yes, but for different reasons than most American media elites will acknowledge. <br />
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Contrary to popular opinion, Putin and his inside circle, are not the Communists. In fact, they are the opponents of the Communists in Russia.<br />
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Since 1993 Gennady Zyuganov had been the leader of the Russian Communist Party. Last year, the 73-year-old Zyuganov announced that he would not oppose Putin in the upcoming election. Instead, he was passing the mantle to 57-year-old Pavel Grudinin, who ran and lost. <br />
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The background of Pavel Grudinin is a separate topic for a different post. But, it should be noted that Zyuganov and Grudinin are friends with John Brennan, who served as C.I.A. Director under Barack Obama. <br />
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Putin and Associates see the commonalities between Donald Trump's opponents and their own. They see Trump as a Nationalist, which makes him both a more difficult negotiator, but easier to figure. <br />
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Putin is also a Nationalist. He loves Russia and doesn't have a problem with Trump's "America first" ideology. If anything, he admires Trump for making a point of it! <br />
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As one Putin surrogate phraised, "Putin is "nash ceela moosheena."(Our strong man) Trump is "vash ceela moosheena."(Your strong man).<br />
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Most recall the almost fanatical fixation Trump's opponents and Democrats held when Trump met with Putin in Helsinki. Some even wanted to interrogate the translator!<br />
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The fear is simple: "Trump and Putin might just cut a deal, that would derail their globalist agenda permanently." <br />
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It's a foregone conclusion that Putin would be willing to cut a deal with Trump. And Trump would be willing to "lock in granite" any deal that was favorable to Nationalist America. <br />
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Putin would see a "green new deal" instigated by Trump as an opportunity to work out other differences. Starting with Russian return to the G-7. Trump has already hinted that he thinks it's a good idea, while admitting that Putin might be too proud to embrace such an overture.<br />
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Then comes the new "Start" treaty, followed by the lifting of sanctions and the recognition of Crimean annexation. Neo-Cons, most Democrats and of course, the mainstream media, would likely experience convulsions!<br />
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Calls for impeachment would dominate the airwaves! <br />
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Yet, there would be an unanswered question: "What would the President get in return?"<br />
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Putin is nobody's fool! He would know that to gain those concessions, he would need to offer something in return. The idea of global carbon emission reduction would not be unwelcomed. In fact, it would be the foundation for something much bigger. <br />
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Let's start with Russia, Ukraine and Georgia becoming part of N.A.T.O. Unbeknownst to most, this was the secret want a decade ago. It could still happen. Could it happen? Those former Warsaw Pact nations would oppose it. Primarily because they didn't then and still don't trust the Russians. The rest of Europe could see logic behind peaceful relations throughout the continent. <br />
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Russians have made it clear that they were interested in "integrating, not submitting" to N.A.T.O. This would be a giant step. They would know that to gain such statue, there would need to be serious concessions. <br />
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Starting with peace in Eastern Ukraine, allowing Ukraine total access to the Sea of Azov. There would be Russian withdrawal of troops from the Transdneistria region of Moldova, allowing Ukraine to access this "Delaware sized" strip of Moldova, while allowing Moldova to reunite with Romania.<br />
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Russia would join the U.S. in mandating to Kim Jong Un, that "nuclear options would not be allowed on the peninsula."<br />
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Russia would exit the Western Hemisphere, abandoning Soviet vintage allies, Cuba, Venezuela and Nicaragua.<br />
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Russia would even help the United States establish an independent Kurdistan in Kurd held provinces, jointly committing to a condition of religious freedom for all.<br />
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It would be called, "an exchange of ideas." To insure that neither side regressed, America would adopt Russia's gender standards. Russia would adopt America's federal land bank. More on both in a future post.<br />
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Meanwhile, America's current emission standards would not only be adopted by Russia, but adopted, under the threat of sanctions, by China and India. In reality, this is the only "New Green Deal that will be a New Green Deal."<br />
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The bald truth about A.O.C. and friends version of the Green New Deal is that it won't work. But, reduction of carbon emission isn't the objective. <br />
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Simply put, it's about "recreating the Soviet Union in America." Nothing more. Nothing less. <br />
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Why? <br />
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It's called "power." THEIR power! It is incomprehensible the absolute power that A.O.C. and friends would gain, if they forced their Marxists agenda upon the well intended, but feckless American mainstream. <br />
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That the mainstream media would advocate such a ruse is inexcusable. But, they are part of it. Never forget this. <br />
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Jeff B. Willishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01507436173521876645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3172438405174968302.post-84525143635916336482019-09-02T09:14:00.000-07:002019-09-02T09:14:03.834-07:00Immigration Debate Fraught with Demagoguery Immigration remains a hot topic for much of America. Most disquieting is how much "demagoguery" has slipped into the discussion!<br />
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At the center is "birthright citizenship." Over the decades, the idea that "if you were born in the U.S., you were automatically a citizen," was strategically spawned. Yet, in returning to that 1868 Reconstruction Congress and examining the actual intentions of the authors, a different meaning becomes plainly evident.<br />
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Two groups were included. "People who had been previously engaged in involuntary servitude." And, "people born in the U.S., who held no previous status." That's it! No other groups were included. No outside circumstances were considered. <br />
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Case in point: The Native American did not gain citizenship until 1924. Case closed!<br />
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Chain Migration is a bit more subjective. Was it intended for immediate family members only? Or, were extended families afforded the same inclusion? <br />
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Herein lies part of our nation's emerging "clash of perceptions." <br />
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Two points of view: (a) Open borders, anyone can come and bring along their distant relatives. (b) We should be more selective with whom we allow into the country, because half the planet would love to be here.<br />
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Those supporting "A" are quick to call "B" supporters, "racists." <br />
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Those supporting "B" respond in saying, "we need immigrants who can immediately assimilate and contribute; not <br />
jump on the entitlement rolls!"<br />
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In 2008, then Louisiana Senator, David Vitter introduced legislation that would base Congressional representation on "U.S. citizens and not persons." To the average American, this amounted to nothing more than "semantics." A deeper look acknowledged that if adopted, California would lose six house seats, New York two and Illinois one. Nine different states would gain seats.<br />
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What does the Constitution say?<br />
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It says "persons." Because, at the time of it's writing, there was no such thing as a U.S. Citizen. You were a citizen of your state. Many U.S. residents held citizenship in another country as recently as 1900. <br />
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Senator Vitter's proposed legislation never made it out of committee. Yet, there remains strong support for it's adoption. So strong that if advocates of an Article Five Convention were smart, they would make this measure their top initiative! I have no doubt that the necessary 34 states would vote to adopt this standard!<br />
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Perhaps this is where our immigration discussion needs to begin. The United States was always meant to be a "melting pot." Not a "salad bowl!" We are a nation of immigrants. We need immigrants. The question becomes, "do we want immigrants who want to adopt our culture?" Or, "are we looking for immigrants who want to bring their culture to our shores?"<br />
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Hence our "clash of perceptions!'<br />
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Most disturbing is how one side, when sensing that they are losing the argument, readily turns to "racism" as the true position held by the other side. This is the worst kind of demagoguery! <br />
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Our country is unique. Most of us can claim ancestry that came from another land, seeking something better. In doing so, we have founded the greatest nation in the history of the world. <br />
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Those who disagree, probably don't need to be here.<br />
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Oops! I recently recall the current President suggesting something along those lines. He was called everything from a bigot to racist to a NAZI to a white supremacist!<br />
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From childhood, I recall a popular assertion: "America. Love her or leave her!" Never heard was the cry of "racist or bigot or NAZI or White Supremacist!" <br />
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My, how things have changed!<br />
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Maybe it's because there is an agenda behind this belief that it's okay to trash out country. Perhaps there are those who are inwardly embarrassed by our success as a nation. I do recall a previous president rushing to Europe to launch an "apology tour." <br />
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What I still can't fathom is "what was he apologizing for?" Saving it from Hitler? <br />
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When seen in this light, a new question emerges: "Are those who prescribe to position "A" the true fascists?" Jonah Goldberg thought so! In his book, "Liberal Fascism," he revealed a chilling hint that through political correctness, AKA "Cultural Marxism," those proponents of position "A" would ultimately squelch all opposition. <br />
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Sound familiar?<br />
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Riding point in this discussion is Immigration. <br />
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Should we open our borders and allow anyone who can make it here entry? Should these "newcomers" be afforded the right to participate in elections? Should they gain access to entitlement rolls?"<br />
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The "A" camp would proclaim, "absolutely, positively, definitely."<br />
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The "B" camp proposes that immigration be "merit based." Or, in the words of the current House Speaker, a plan to "white-a-size" America. <br />
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Is there no end in sight? <br />
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Jeff B. Willishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01507436173521876645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3172438405174968302.post-87899912877367141372019-08-18T14:10:00.000-07:002019-08-18T14:12:50.622-07:00Green New Deal Runs Through RussiaForget about A.O.C.'s Green New Deal! It is a ruse; a wily effort to slip Communism through the back door!<br />
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The Soviet Union controlled their population by essentially impoverishing them. In grounding, disarming and making Americans Vegans, the A.O.C. crowd will have done the same to their countrymen. <br />
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Make no mistake! This Green New Deal is about certain people gaining power. Real concerns are irrelevant. <br />
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Case in point: Many communities in rural America do not have access to clean drinking water, thanks to outdated infrastructure. The Government Accountability Office estimates that the costs of remedying the looming water crisis might take $190 billion in the decades to come. <br />
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Being forced to follow through with the Obama plan; to cut gas greenhouse emissions 80% by 2050 came with a price tag of $5.3 trillion dollars, per Columbia Business School economist, Geoffrey Heal. There would obviously been little money remaining for clean drinking water in rural America!<br />
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In truth, Obama's plan amounted to an excuse to push a Socialist, Globalist agenda. According to Heal, the plan would have had a marginal, if any effect on global temperatures!<br />
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Global temperatures have been rising and falling for eons. During the Minoan Warm Period,1300-1000 B.C., the Earth was about five degrees Celsius warmer than today's average. Today, Earth's temperatures are comparable to the Roman era. When Columbus was discovering the New World, we were probably three degrees cooler than today. That period was known as the "Little Ice Age."<br />
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Billions have been spent on research. Yet Government funded scientists have ignored evidence that global warming has nothing to do with carbon dioxide emissions.<br />
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This is the real problem! As carbon emissions go, we do have a problem. But, fixing the problem doesn't amount to destroying American prosperity. We already ARE the example for the rest of the world! And don't bring up our pulling out of the Paris Climate Accord! That amounted to "trusting" the United Nations with 100 million of our dollars. I don't think so...<br />
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Here are the facts about bringing about a real Green New Deal: We must forced China and India to comply. In essence, we must successfully pressure them to adopt our standard. And that won't happen. Unless, we have help...<br />
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From Russia? Are we kidding ourselves. Russia has nearly as bad of an environmental record as the Soviet Union had. How could they be anything but a nuisance, if not a deterrent?<br />
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When I first visited Russia in 1998, I was astounded to learn that the average life expectancy for Russian men was but 57! Medical sources cited the fact that 70% of Russian men smoked cigarettes, often of the highest nicotine content. Then there was the inexpensive, often preferred beverage of choice: Vodka! Today, most of those in power during Gorbachev's years are six feet under.<br />
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Gradually these old Soviet types are being replaced by the "Children of Perestroika;" those in middle and high school during Gorbachev's time. These Russians have lived for the most part with computers, cell phones and world access. Many are noticeably embarrassed with the nations' recent environmental record. <br />
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In short, America will eventually need to come to terms with Russia on a number of key issues. This might be the starting point. If we come up with a plan that we can adopt; and that amounts to American financial help for Russia to implement our emission standards, it's probable that we will gain immediate European support. At that point, our "New Green Alliance" can pretty much mandate the plan to the rest of the planet. That's the real "New Green Deal!"<br />
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The biggest opponents will likely be 70's and 80's Vintage Cold Warriors still in power, who are stuck in Gorbachev's day. Their Soviet/Russian counterparts have already passed. Now, we must either vote them out of office, or wait for them to retire, or die. <br />
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Jeff B. Willishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01507436173521876645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3172438405174968302.post-80204268920899219912019-01-27T07:54:00.002-08:002019-01-27T08:41:45.045-08:00Pelosi's Posture Assuring Trump's 2020 Re-election?Nancy Pelosi is an vain, egotistical 79-year-old woman; the proverbial "poster girl" as to why we need congressional term limits.<br />
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Through the past week, never once was it mentioned that Donald Trump receive 306 electoral college votes in the 2016 election. Nor was it admitted that Pelosi represents one of the most "far left fringe" congressional districts in America.<br />
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Two nights ago, my wife issued a startling metaphor: She called Robert Mueller "Stalin." <br />
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This came on the heels of another metaphor: "CNN is America's Pravda."<br />
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Interesting that such an assertion would come from someone who spent her first 25 years in the former Soviet Union. Unfortunately, it is more fact than fantasy!<br />
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When I speak to friends from Alaska to Florida, from California to Maine(as I have done during in the past two weeks), it seems that literally EVERYONE favors building not simply a barrier, but a serious border wall that will inhibit traffic. I found one person, a 26 year-old-male who lived at home with his mother, who said that a wall "didn't feel right."<br />
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Yet, "polls" say otherwise. But who are these respondents? Perhaps they are they same the respondents who had Hillary Clinton winning by 7 to 14 points, the day before the 2016 presidential election.<br />
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Yesterday, Louisiana Senator, Bill Cassidy noted that "four billion dollars" had been apprehended from Mexican drug cartels in 2018. "There is the money for the wall." said the Senator. "If you go back to what was captured in 2017 and 2016, there is even more money."<br />
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Money for the wall. Mexico, in effect pays for it. Trump makes good on a campaign promise. Borders are better secured. End of discussion. Right?<br />
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Unfortunately, the discussion has gone past securing the borders. It is now a matter of Trump not being allowed to add "building a wall" to his growing string of accomplishments. The question becomes, "are Democrats that petty?"<br />
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Pelosi is. She sees Trump's agreeing to reopen the government without 100% assurance of a wall being included, as a political victory. In her mind, it was never about securing the wall, the dreamers or anything other than winning a political argument.<br />
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Should Trump simply declare an emergency? Who would object to his using confiscated drug money to achieve this goal? Chuck and Nancy would! But, they are only thinking about political aspects. <br />
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Trump knows that he will ultimately face the 9th district if he declares a national emergency. At that point, it would be a year long wait for the case to be heard by the Supreme Court. These same polls are suggesting that Americans oppose his declaring an emergency.<br />
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For those who bother to read history, Abe Lincoln made some calls that were not too popular! Had they taken polls during that time, it's likely that his approval rating would have hovered in the high 20's. Lincoln knew that in order to preserve the nation as we knew it, he would need to make some unpopular decisions. <br />
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This Lincoln did, knowing that if he did not, a determined minority might find that magic moment where they could defy the odds and achieve their objective.<br />
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That magic moment came in September 1862. CSA General Kirby Smith had between 18,000 and 20,000 battle tested, Confederate troops in Lexington. He had learned from Calvary General John Scott that the Union had "less than 5,000 raw levies" guarding Louisville. <br />
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Had Smith moved on Louisville, the Union would have evacuated the city. British Prime Minister, David Palmerston would have moved forward with his bill to recognize the Confederacy as a Sovereign nation. The American Civil War would have been over. In spite of the odds, the Southern states would have gained their independence.<br />
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Why Kirby Smith did not move is another topic for a different post. The parallel is noteworthy, in that Donald J. Trump has the machinery to end the border question, once and for all. Will he use it? <br />
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Many on the inner circle suggest that Pelosi's stiff necked, stubborn posture, coupled with the Democrats inability to find a strong challenger, will ice the 2020 election for the President. Perhaps they are right. But, what if they are not?<br />
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The country needs major immigration reform. Nearly everybody is in agreement on this subject. But, where is the compromise? <br />
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In a true compromise, neither side is totally happy. To the President's credit, he has tried to find some middle ground. The fact that the other side has shown virtually no interest in compromise, suggests that there is a motive that goes beyond the question of "do we or don't we build a border wall."<br />
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Maybe that motive is to sufficiently change the American demography just enough to tip the scales in states like Texas. This past weekend, it was discovered that 58,000 illegal votes have been tabulated over the past four years in the Lone Star state. In a close election, this could prove decisive.<br />
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We all know about California's "ballot harvesting" this past election.<br />
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And how about this endless Mueller probe? What I cannot fathom, is "why" similar action has not been taken against Hillary Clinton? Or, Obama for that matter?<br />
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We all hope that tomorrow morning, we'll awaken to a world of no media bias, no election fraud, no endless, politically inspired probes and no prejudice against insuring the safety of American citizens.<br />
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Sadly, we are not dealing with a foe that actually "gives a shit" about American citizens! <br />
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When traditional Democrats put "two and two together," many will walk away. After all, this isn't the party of Harry S. Truman, John F. Kennedy or even Bill Clinton. <br />
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"Give us a crime, we'll find a man." Or, "it's not who votes, it's who counts the votes." In the end, as Harvard Law Emeritus, Alan Gershoeitz, describes, "the criminalization of politics."<br />
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How utterly "Soviet!" Joseph Stalin would have been proud!<br />
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Does Nancy Pelosi see this? <br />
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Of course she does. She isn't stupid. The sad thing is that she doesn't care! She is consumed with winning a political argument and is obsessed with her hatred of Donald Trump. That is all. <br />
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Could it be enough to insure the president's reelection in 2020? <br />
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Too early to tell. There are other factors that will play in. My biggest concern in the near inevitability of voter fraud. "Where" and "to what extent" will be key questions.<br />
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Conversely, if the President declares an emergency, it will ignite a firestorm in the Democrat party. Even, if he announces that he will use confiscated monies from captured Mexican Drug lords. To his opponents, this would represent a win for the President and a fulfilled promise to his base.<br />
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Polls or no polls, border security is a winning issue for the president. Better to do as Lincoln did: Make a tough decision, knowing that the people who put you in power favor it, taking your chances with those who already oppose you on everything.<br />
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Which brings us to the final question: "When you know who your true opponent is and know that their desire is to destroy this nation, do you even want to allow this debate to continue?"<br />
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Today, Donald Trump has the Military, Homeland Security, I.C.E. and "armed America" in his corner. As distasteful as an "old fashioned, mano y mano brawl" might appear, it's also fact that the President would score a victory that would end in Communist expulsion from the continent.<br />
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We must also remember that the United States of America was never founded as a "Democracy." We are a "Republic." In short, a nation founded on "laws." <br />
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A "Democracy" has never worked over the long term. Never! They always end up as "Oligarchies." <br />
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Sooner or later, the two factions are going to fight over this question. We can either stick out heads in the sand and allow self interested "relics" like Nancy Pelosi call the shots. Or, we can "right" a long festering wrong that should have been addressed decades earlier.<br />
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Like Kirby Smith, the President is entering that "magic moment" where he can make the historical determination. <br />
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Jeff B. Willishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01507436173521876645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3172438405174968302.post-11317135163282396902019-01-21T10:10:00.000-08:002019-01-21T11:48:33.709-08:00Trump's Overture Insufficient for Fantasy Based DemocratsSo it's on the table!<br />
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President Donald J.Trump cagily rendered a compromise plan that is just moderate enough to generate moans from his conservative fringes. Overall however, it is brilliant.<br />
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Without getting into specifics, the President and Republicans are offering to postpone the DACA decision until after the 2020 election. This sets it on the table as a campaign issue. In process, they are providing items from the original Democrat "wish list." And, they are reopening the government. <br />
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It's all about positioning. <br />
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5.7 billion is a lot, but not really when compared to the 50 billion that we're forking out for foreign aid. If Trump were asking for fifty-seven billion, wall opponents might have a serious beef. But, it's not even twenty five billion, the original number. 5.7 billion? That's a compromise!<br />
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In a true compromise, neither side is totally happy. This proposal is no exception. If you don't believe it, ask Ann Colter! It's nothing either side wanted. But, it is a plan that Mitch McConnell thinks that he can find 60 Senate votes. If he does, it's over. Nancy Pelosi will have been outmaneuvered.<br />
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Then again, "Fancy Nancy" may not see it this way! If she doesn't,the Democrat party as we know it,will be gone. Look for at least 10% of party membership to become "walk-a-ways."<br />
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Historically, when finding themselves on the losing end of a debate, the left has cried racism.Trump's initiative most benefits those trying to get an economic leg up. As in, African Americans and Hispanic Americans! They suffer the most from the "wage depression," that results from an influx of unskilled illegal aliens into the U.S. labor market. <br />
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Many question "why" Republicans didn't answer this question when Paul Ryan was House Speaker. The answer is easy: "Paul Ryan Republicans" saw illegal aliens as an endless source of cheap labor. Many were replaced by Democrats in the midterm elections. A record number of them retired, in anticipation of primary challenges. In most cases, their districts were carried by Donald Trump in 2016.<br />
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Good, bad or indifferent, the President has found a winning issue: "Border security." Spin it as you wish, CNN, but people care! The recent skyrocketing of Hispanic approval numbers reflect as much. Pelosi's ill advised refusal to even counter the offer will open the door for Trump to declare an emergency. Conservatives hope that he will take the offensive.<br />
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This would amount to ending sanctuary cities as refuges for illegal aliens; starting with the arrests of non-compliant sanctuary city mayors. This might trigger a war. But what kind of war? And for how long?<br />
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Most of the nation simply does not have a stomach for an 1860's style bloodbath. The parts that do, are the same parts that are already armed, in hopeful anticipation that this day might come. They represent the core of Trump supporters.<br />
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Easy to see why some are so enthusiastic about gun control!<br />
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In short, it would be a massacre. <br />
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Those left leaning ideologues would realize that their far left brothers and sisters had taken them on a fateful detour. In the end, the left would lose; obliterated. It would be the most one-sided crushing in the history of warfare!<br />
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The country would subsequently take a rightward swing that would not be reversed for at least two generations. Maybe longer! <br />
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Conservatives would reference "The Naked Communist," a telltale, 1958 book written by former FBI special agent and political theorist, W. Cleon Skousen. They would rebrand the so-called,"Progressive Left" as "Communist Insurgency." Skousen's analysis would lend credence to this assertion.<br />
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It will start with education. The Department of Education in Washington D.C. would be eliminated. The National Education Association would be labeled a "Communist Insurgent Organization." All members would be precluded from ever working in the industry again. "Tenure" at all public colleges and universities would end. Each faculty member would be subject to an annual "objectivity review." <br />
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The term "separation of church and state" would be redefined. History would be consulted. It would be decided that the objective of the wording was the "keep the state out of the church." In essence, Americans didn't want a "Church of America" ala Great Britain's "Church of England," or Anglican Church. Over the years, Secularists have quietly reversed the original intent.<br />
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The "Lyndon Johnson era" edict of "disallowing churches protected tax treatment if they endorsed political candidates," would end.<br />
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America would be educated on the evils of political correctness. "P.C." would be classified as "cultural Marxism." Those advocating P.C. would be identified as "cultural Marxists." Employers would be encouraged not to hire "cultural Marxists."<br />
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Members of the Broadcast(over-the-air) media would be required to take a loyalty oath to the United States constitution. Those apprehended in the act of generating "fake news," would be treated like bankers generating fraudulent mortgage loans: They would be "precluded for life," from any employment in Broadcasting Journalism.<br />
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Sound crazy?<br />
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Think again. Governor Mike Huckabee pointed out that less that 30% of Evangelicals voted in 2012. That number climbed to almost 50% in 2016. To these Americans, it's about destiny and the ultimate "slaying of the beast."<br />
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Bottom line is this: Nancy Pelosi doesn't want to make her stand at this time. At best she will create a landscape for a 2020 presidential election which the Democrats will probably lose. At worst, she will compromise freshmen Trump districts, leading to major Republican House pickups in 2020.<br />
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In short, the nation is currently experiencing a "cold" war. Potentially, Pelosi and her party leadership could turn the "cold war" into a "hot" war. <br />
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A better idea is to try to work for the good of all of the people! Unfortunately, Nancy Pelosi doesn't care if she starts a war! Not even one that might result in two million deaths. She is "Americas political class; the ruling class." If war comes, she'll be sitting in her Geneva chateau, sipping chardonnay. It helps when you are enormously wealthy as she is! <br />
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The new Democrat left is all about "hating America and doing everything within their power to destroy it." A growing number of "salt of the earth" Americans(Hillary Clinton called them deplorables)may ultimately conclude that the only remedy is "an old fashioned ass kicking." <br />
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Unlike the first civil war, the second war won't initially be "civil!" So many of these "deplorables" harbor a belief that "the only good Communist is a dead one." <br />
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With a clash of perceptions, both sides are right in their individual assertions. The side that wins is the side with the most power. <br />
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Jefferson Davis would attest to it.<br />
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Jeff B. Willishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01507436173521876645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3172438405174968302.post-15284582661979743622019-01-05T10:24:00.000-08:002019-01-05T13:55:30.036-08:00Could Trump Declare an Emergency?Depends on who you ask.<br />
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Friday, the President emerged from an energetic tussle with "Chuck and Nancy." He gave his assessment of the discussion. It didn't sound all bad; unless it was your paycheck that has been suspended.<br />
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On the heels of that meeting came the December economic report. For Chuck and Nancy, it took some luster off their argument. The economy created 312,000 jobs in December. For the year, wages are up nationally 3.2 %. This is actually great news, for the country. If you are a Democrat trying to find fault with Donald Trump, it's deflating!<br />
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During the holidays, I had numerous chances to discuss funding of the border wall and Trump's first two years in general. Two conversations stood out. <br />
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He was a 26-year old, unmarried man who resides with his mother. When asked "why" he opposed the wall, he stated, "it just doesn't feel right." <br />
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When asked, "do you have any alternative suggestions," his answer was "no."<br />
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At another party, a dear friend and neighbor, who happens to be a Professor of Theology at a local college in the area, blatantly emphasized. "The problem with Trump is he just doesn't have the mental capabilities to handle the Presidency."<br />
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I coyly asked, "Who would you have in mind?"<br />
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His response: "I don't know."<br />
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Bear in mind. Both people aren't stupid. From an education standpoint, both have logged more than their share of classroom time. Yet, neither could admit why they held Donald Trump in such low esteem. <br />
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Odds are, an absurdly biased mainstream media contributed to their quandary. Yesterday's MSM reaction to the economic news was comical; as if someone had let the air out of their tires.<br />
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In short, great economic news translated to their being made to look stupid. Never mind how this news impacted the country! <br />
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From a sheer journalistic perspective, what we have today are a lot of "tabloid type" news people. Gone are the days when media professionals could present a story as it was. Now "editorials" are positioned as straight news. The end result: A lot of well meaning people are confused. <br />
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From a purely historical standpoint, Donald Trump is on track to be America's greatest president! Statistics don't lie! Main Street sees this. Sorry Chuck Todd, Don Lemon, Rachael Maddow, Chris Cuomo and Morning Joe! You are making fools of yourselves! You are essentially "majoring on the minor." Time to "man up" and admit that you have been gravely wrong about practically everything regarding this presidency. <br />
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A free press is essential in a free society. Unfortunately, with freedom comes responsibility. Glamorizing a particular position, while degrading the opposition is harmful. A prime example is newly elected, New York Congresswoman, Alexandra Ortasio-Cortez. <br />
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The mainstream media has idolized her, taking a "doglike deference" to her lack of intellectual credentials. This woman didn't even know that Israel was a country? Yet, to hear the revered Wolf Blitzer speak of her, you would think that she is the second coming of Marie Curie! <br />
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The inherent danger lies in how masses react to "rabble rousers" like Congresswoman Ortasio-Cortez. Certainly the question of immigration is beyond her depth. Or is it?<br />
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Political correctness is "cultural Marxism." A self proclaimed "Democratic Socialist" and avowed "radical," Ortasio-Cortez is comfortable with such a distinction. Little does she see from her "Bronx bubble" that large parts of America are seething! <br />
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Let's return to the original question: "Could Trump declare an emergency?"<br />
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The answer is "yes." Here is how the sequence could unfold.<br />
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The proclamation is issued. "Pandemonium," mostly from paid protesters breaks out in the streets of major cities. This time, however, things proceed differently.<br />
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Acting Attorney General, Matt Carpenter, informs sanctuary city mayors that they will have "seven days" to deliver all criminal illegal aliens to I.C.E., or face arrest. The charges? "Aiding and abetting criminals" and "obstruction of justice." <br />
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Would this be legal?<br />
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Absolutely.<br />
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Riots would ensue. ANTIFA would overwhelm law enforcement officials. At that point, the President could call upon "civilian volunteers" to "assist local law enforcement and I.C.E. maintain order" in Sanctuary cites. <br />
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How many civilian volunteers would be summoned? Expect "three to four times" the number the President called for. <br />
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Colin Woodward, a Maine native, introduced an insightful read recently. It is called, "American Nations." In this book, Woodward identified eleven different Americas, who have miraculously held together from the time of the continent's settlement. As in 1861, the Union might be tested.<br />
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The American Nations siding with the President, per Woodward, are and have been the most "warlike" of the American Nations! For many of them, a kind of joy would be unleashed. For the average civilian volunteer, it would be the culmination of decades marked by pent up frustration. <br />
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For these souls, it would amount to "we are with you, Mr. President. Don't worry about arms or transportation. We've got that covered!" <br />
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And off they would go; to California, Chicago's south side, the Bronx, Portland, Oregon and other areas that needed to experience "a reckoning." Most would be men between ages 18 and 50, in groups of four and five, graced with 12-gauge pumps, AR-15's and nine MM's. <br />
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Once there, it's doubtful that they would stop with ANTIFA protesters! Most shocking to the media establishment would be the large numbers of local loyalists who would arise, embrace and join the incoming civilians!<br />
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The"Progressive Left" movement would crushed; and later re-branded. The new moniker: "The Communist Insurgency.."<br />
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It would be then and there, that the veil would be lifted from America's eyes! <br />
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Suddenly Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump would be facing the same opposition!<br />
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In a matter of weeks, Obama holdovers would be expunged from the State Department. Finally a meaningful peace would be at hand, beginning with a pacified Iran and a united Korea. Europe would be secured. Russia, Ukraine, Georgia and Armenia would join NATO. <br />
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A unified, mostly mostly Christian world would turn to the real global threat: China, where they are now implanting computer chips in their school children! Facing that kind of firepower, the Chinese would quickly acquiesce.<br />
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This ultimate face-off would be remembered as "Faith based National Populism" versus "Secular Global Socialism." Almost overnight, it would be "cool" to be a Nationalist!<br />
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When on the losing end of an argument, the "progressive left" has always resorted to the cry of "racism." To an Alexandra Ortasio-Cortez, Donald Trump is a racist, a bigot, a fascist and a NAZI. It's doubtful that the freshman Congresswoman knows anything about "National Socialism." Here's a hint.<br />
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Were Trump a NAZI, he would propose sending the apprehended criminal illegal aliens to Alaska, where work on a railroad connecting the state to the lower 48 would commence. Criminal illegals would be assigned to a "chain gang," placed on an 800 calorie per day diet, and worked 16 hours per day. <br />
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Within a few weeks, they would be dead. The official cause of death would be "general physical weakness." NAZI rationale would insist that "they were condemned anyway, why not get a few weeks of work from them?" <br />
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Few would know of their disposition. Prisoners would spend their first day writing letters to friends and loved ones. In most cases, recipients would be reading correspondence from corpses! The large Arctic wolf population would take care of the disposal problem.The sordid deed would be "sanitized" from history, in the same manner that ANTIFA seeks to erase Confederate history.<br />
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Fortunately, Donald Trump is anything but a NAZI.If he were, the last person advising him would be his Jewish son-in-law! <br />
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One could expect "limousine liberals" such as Nancy Pelosi and Maxine Waters to be on the first Leer Jet out of the country.! Left behind would be the "constituents" and the bulk of the Communist Insurgency(Progressive Left), exposed as the "Sheeple."<br />
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"Constituents" are the bought and paid for members of the bureaucracy. They are often joined by "tenured" professors at colleges and universities,such as my neighbor.<br />
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Americans would be shocked to know how many of these "constituents" are Democrats! Remember, Kathleen Sebelius? For those who don't, she was the head of the I.R.S. who took the 5th, when asked IF tea party members had been targeted by the agency. <br />
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"Sheeple" are what the word implies: "People who behave like sheep," doing what they are told and never questioning the rationale. This designation holds true to the young man who voiced opposition to a border wall, while offering no alternative. A large percentage of "Sheeple" are functionally illiterate. <br />
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So goes the border wall debate. Demanding entry are roughly 2,000,000 Central Americans. Their average education level hovers around the third grade. Almost none speak English. <br />
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Statistically "two-thirds" of all illegal aliens are receiving some sort of entitlement. Many have Medicaid cards and receive food stamps.<br />
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Once in the country, they are difficult to remove. In places like California they are able to acquire drivers licenses. Democrats see them as "ready made votes." Perhaps not immediately, but they are working on it. <br />
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Republicans conclude(correctly) that a wall, fence or something that says, "you can't come in," will discourage most. The journey is long and dangerous. Not all, but probably more than half of the border traffic will be thwarted.<br />
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Few have acknowledged the degree of voter fraud that exists today. Steps addressed in "E" is for English, would immediately eliminate voter fraud, seen by many as "the single, greatest threat to our Republic." The "progressive left" fears these measures will remove "fraud and cheating" as pathways to victory. It was Joseph Stalin who said, "it's not who votes, but who counts the votes!"<br />
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There are other corrective measures that would insure that we never had another 2018. It's probable, that an "Article Five convention of states" might provide the forum to instigate these changes.<br />
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In best case, this is how the "Emergency" would end. The "left" AKA "The Communist Insurgency," having witnessed ANTIFA's violent demise, would be stunned. Then, they would do a "180 degree turn" and condemn those who lead the Communist Insurgency. Most of the Oligarchs who inspired them, would be comfortably housed in European Chateaus, having exited early. Constituents,including Academicians, would ultimately do an "about face." Sheeple would experience the cold reality of a people manipulated.<br />
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In the end, America would still be one! There would be a massive decentralization, as well as some new amendments to the constitution. With some luck, the following would unfold:<br />
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1. H.U.D., Education and E.P.A. offices in Washington D.C. would be closed. All three would be reassigned to the states.<br />
2. A National "Catastrophic" Health Insurance pool would be created. Health insurance could be purchased across state lines. Pharmaceuticals would be purchased directly by Medicare and Medicaid. Pharmaceutical companies would be precluded from contributing to political candidates or campaigns. Lobbyists would no longer be allowed in the capital.<br />
3. Twelve-year term limits would be enacted on all Congressmen, Senators and non-military members of the federal bureaucracy. 18-year term limits for federal judges including Supreme Court justices.<br />
4. Federal employees would be precluded from unionization.<br />
5. English would be adopted as the official language in the U.S..<br />
6. Voter I.D.'s with current photographs, would be required. Early voting would be limited to "no more than 14 days" prior to election. All participants would be required to vote in person at their local precinct or fill out absentee requests, thirty days prior to the election. <br />
7. Only U.S. Citizens would be allowed voting privileges.<br />
8. Congressional Representation would be based on the number of "United States citizens" in a district. Not "persons."<br />
9. Birthright citizenship would be limited to those "previously held in involuntary servitude" and/or "those born in the U.S. but having held no previous status."<br />
10. Immigration would be "merit based." The "immigration lottery" would be eliminated.<br />
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The founding fathers were deeply concerned about a government that might get away from the people. The Article Five convention of states was their stopgap measure that would address it. <br />
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Not addressed was whether a sitting president might preside over an Article Five convention. If this were the path chosen by Donald Trump, he would essentially be doing something similar to what Abraham Lincoln did. <br />
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In retrospect, Lincoln did the unimaginable. But historians credit him with "saving the union."<br />
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Trump would be doing something similar, albeit less profound. <br />
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It would later be referred to as "The Great Reckoning." Americans would see how close they came to having their country stolen from them by a tiny group of corrupt, insiders now commonly referred to as the "deep state." <br />
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In reality, the Alexandra Ortasio-Cortez' are nothing short of diversions. Lying beneath is a dark objective of a one-world socialist order, inspired by demonic figures such as Mao zedong.<br />
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Jeff B. Willishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01507436173521876645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3172438405174968302.post-16312506790958014862018-12-29T09:50:00.000-08:002019-09-20T06:56:36.717-07:00"Socotra" Anyone?What in hell's name is a "Secotra?" Better question, "what is Socotra?" Or, even better, "Where is Socrotra?"<br />
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Answer: "Socotra is a "Rhode Island sized" island, with three additional tiny islands that amount to rock outcroppings, 220 miles south of Yemen, less than 100 miles west of the "Horn" of Africa.<br />
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It's ownership has been pass around over the centuries. Today,it's owned by Yemen.<br />
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The 60,000 or so indigenous people are unique. Their language is an Arabic derivative. The island saw Christianity early. Thomas the Apostle is credited to have gone there in 52 A.D.. Socotra was predominantly Christian until the late 10th century. By the 17th century it had given way to Islam.<br />
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At 12 degrees latitude N, Socotra enjoys a warm to hot dry climate. Average July high is 90 degrees F, low 80 degree F. January averages are 81 and 73. The coastal areas, mostly white, sandy beaches, received a scant ten inches per rain per year. Offshore breezes moderate the often hot temperatures. Mountains and rock formations create a seascape that borders on spectacular! <br />
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Interior elevation nears 5,000 feet, allowing it to catch 40 inches of rain annually. The additional precipitation creates moving streams and clear pools of fresh water throughout Socotra's rugged interior. <br />
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There are hundreds of plant and flora specifies exclusive to the island. Possibly the most unique are the "Blood Trees." <br />
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There are bird species found nowhere else in the world.<br />
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Much to the chagrin of ecologists, goats were introduced to the island in the 11th century. They readily thrived and became a staple of the local diet. But they grazed on local plants that were found in no other place on the globe. <br />
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Over the centuries, locals made their living almost exclusively from the sea. Agriculture was limited, but tobacco has always done well. Dates, from the islands massive Date Palm Trees, are the leading export crop.<br />
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Sea landings have always been available, the three-month Monsoon season notwithstanding. Portuguese sailors referred to the Monsoon winds and seas as the "Lion of Socotra."<br />
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Socotra has been spared most of the fallout from Saudi Arabia's war with Yemen. The United Arab Emirates has recently built an airport on the island. Today there is growing uncertainty of the long term disposition of the island. It's strategic importance as a potential supply depot is clearly in focus.<br />
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I say, "Let's buy it!"<br />
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Iran would protest bitterly. Russia might not like it. China definitely wouldn't like it. <br />
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But...<br />
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The Yemeni are broke! The Saudi's owe us a favor.<br />
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Environmentalists will recognize the importance of saving literally dozens of plant and bird species from possible extinction, that could result from a war. Neo-Cons would quickly forgive President Trump for troop extractions in the Middle East.<br />
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Under the terms of the purchase, the Socotrans would be granted automatic citizenship. Many would opt to stay on the island and live on generous American entitlements. However, large numbers of the younger people would choose to explore the mainland.<br />
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It is probable that the non-indigenous goats would be extracted, in an effort to preserve the delicate fauna. Motor vehicles are currently and would continue to be prohibited in the island's interior and a large part of the coastal areas. <br />
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With one exception, American occupants would be restricted to Scientific and Military personnel. The exception would be those convicted of "attempting to undermine" the Republic. In essence, "the Deep State."<br />
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Some consider that these nimble insiders as nothing short of treasonists! Treason usually carries the death penalty. I don't think Americans are out for blood. Nor, are they seeing these "deep staters" with vindictive eyes. It amounted to entrusted people looking at their own interests first, the nations' second.<br />
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So, you create the utopia for them that they tried to create for themselves; with a different twist.<br />
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"Guests" would receive everything from a quaint yet comfortable adobe homestead, to a never ending wardrobe of "Luke Skywalker style" two-piece, white robes. Do you remember what Luke wore in the original Star Wars movie?<br />
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Each week, "guests" will draw rations, including coffee and candles, at the base commissary. Everything a soldier might receive will be there, including beer, booze and even marijuana.<br />
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One doctor for every 100 guests. Sorry! But that was actually better than what Obamacare ultimately offered to millions of Americans. Emergency procedures? Probably, if it's not "too often" and/or "too many!"<br />
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Cable TV? Cell Phones? No chance! Guest would be allowed thirty minutes per week for calls to immediate family members only;from a designated commissary phone area. Friends and relatives would be allowed to send guests magazine subscriptions, from an approved list.<br />
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Guests would essentially return to the simple things, the way they did them in Jesus' day. Friendships could better be developed. Individual creativity would be at a premium. Socotra has been called the "island of poets."<br />
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A lot of Americans would consider "being a lifetime guest" in Socotra more reward that punishment. <br />
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Meanwhile, the United States would have effectively "killed three birds with one stone."<br />
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Without question, a seaport, airport and supply depot in that dangerous part of the world could prove invaluable.<br />
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Can we honestly trust anyone to preserve this miracle of nature; other than the world's top ecologists? Socotra is utterly, "otherworldly." If one were looking for the perfect "set" for a movie taking place on an alien planet, look no further!<br />
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Those "deep state operatives" should be punished. But who said that punishment need be restricted to a conventional correctional institution? <br />
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These people used technology and inside information to advance specific agendas. Their punishment would amount to their living without technology and only dated information.<br />
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I say, "pretty damned fitting!" <br />
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Jeff B. Willishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01507436173521876645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3172438405174968302.post-83035380957874189202018-11-18T08:37:00.000-08:002018-11-18T08:37:05.386-08:00The Four American PathsFour choices. Four distinct paths. We have them. The questions become, "will we choose the path? Or, will it be chosen for us?"<br />
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Let's start with the first path; the path preferred by career politicians: "Let's do nothing; things will work themselves out. They always do." In other words, let's "react, not act." We'll return to choice "A" shortly.<br />
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Choice "B," amounts to "we should take a more literal approach to the 10th amendment. If the constitution doesn't assign a specific function to the federal government, it is presumed that the function is reserved for the individual state." It's probable that "Dixiecrats" would be overjoyed!<br />
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Choice "C," would conclude that the country was simply too divided to continue as one nation and "peacefully separate." We have seen a lot of evidence that some of the states are already considering this. California stands as a prime example.<br />
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Choice "D" would rebuff separation ideas. It would be a war for all the marbles, likely making the first American civil war look liked a church social.<br />
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Choice "D" appears unlikely(albeit 15% of the country would disagree). It stands to reason that the nation doesn't have the stomach for a 1860's vintage bloodbath! It's probable that those living then would have opted out, had they enjoyed a 21st century media!It is now believed that as many as 750,000 American casualties were inflicted, up from 600,000. This is more than in all other wars COMBINED since the revolution...<br />
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Choice "C" would amount to "giving up," by many Americans. Yet, there is support from both the left and right. For argument's sake, let's briefly assume that separation was the verdict. In a 2016 post, I covered the geographical divide that might come if Hillary Clinton had been elected in a disputed election. <br />
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In that post it predicted that the split would cross the northern border. It also predicted that Tim Draper's "six Californias" would become a reality. At this writing, smart money would suggest that the Great Lakes States would join the lower Midwest, far West, South and three of six Californias, as defined by Draper.<br />
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The Western half of Washington, Oregon and British Columbia would become the nation of "Cascadia." The cultural distinction already exists.<br />
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Ontario and Canadian provinces East of the Rocky mountains would join the "flyover American" states.<br />
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New York and New England would be joined by Canada's Atlanta provinces forming the "Peoples' Democratic Republic of America."<br />
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Quebec would achieve their long dream of independence, and join Honduras and El Salvador as "third world counties" in North America. <br />
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Three of Draper's six California's would be joined by the Big Island of Hawaii to form "Pacifica," AKA "Elysium."(The remaining islands would stay with the money) If you haven't watched the Matt Damon movie, you should; if you want to see the illustration.<br />
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Compared to choices "C" and "D," choice "B" would certainly be preferable. In short, America would rediscover the 10th amendment. Much would be the same as now. The military, border security, social security and medicare would continue to be handle from Washington. Other issues, such as abortion, marijuana and prayer in the public schools would be determined at the state level. It's possible that housing and urban development, the environment, energy and education might all return to the states. Money utilized would be divided proportionately, based on contribution. <br />
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Choice "A" is obviously preferred by lawmakers. It's the easiest! Yet, we may not have the luxury of resorting to choice "A."<br />
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When you have Socialists such as Bernie Sanders and Alexandra Ortasio-Cortez spouting "rabble rousing rhetoric" as they are and there are contested elections as we are experiencing, the latter three options become more imminent. <br />
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Not because we chose then. But, because the choice was thrust upon us. <br />
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Jeff B. Willishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01507436173521876645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3172438405174968302.post-11636057739248808462018-11-11T07:51:00.000-08:002018-11-11T07:51:48.181-08:00Voter Fraud Must be Eliminated at all Costs What is currently taking place in Florida confirms why voter fraud is, or should be, a top ticket issue.<br />
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For those who read "E" is for English, you recall that the issue was discussed thoroughly. A solution was offered. At the time of publication, opposition suggested that the methodology might have been "too extreme." Today, more Americans are seeing the wisdom of the proposal.<br />
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Essentially, the proposal called for the requirement of "passage of a fourth grade English proficiency test" as a prerequisite for a voter Identification card. No pass. No card. No vote.<br />
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Opponents quickly proclaimed that any form of literacy test would "return America to the days of Jim Crow and voter suppression." At first glance, they might have a valid argument.<br />
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In Robert Caro's "Lyndon Johnson-Master of the Senate," stark examples were given of literacy tests designed to disenfranchise African American voters. The proposal detailed in "E" is for English, had a different objective. <br />
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The exam would be standardized nationally; by professionals who do it for a living. Specifically, the same people who create the LSAT, the GMAT, GRE, SAT and the ACT, who sit in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. The objective would be single minded: "Insuring that all voters could English at a 4th grade level."<br />
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The argument against was seemingly valid: "It would disenfranchise large blocks of the population."<br />
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The counter argument stated, "if you cannot read at a fourth grade level, it's probable that you will not be capable of reading a complicated voting ballot.<br />
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The conclusion was "a paradigm shift" in America would need to occur. In short, Americans would need to see "voting as a privilege, not a right."<br />
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As expected, the cost of such an exam would be exponential. A "five-cent per household "residential access tax" levied on commercially and politically oriented direct mail," would pay for the measure.<br />
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Included in the measure would be the prize for passage of the exam: A "voter I.D. card, complete with photograph and thumb print."<br />
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The "E" Amendment also addressed two other "thorny" problems that have recently arisen. <br />
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One was "birthright citizenship." The "E" amendment called for defining birthright citizenship as "any person previously born in the United States who had been engaged in involuntary servitude or had held no previous status." The 14th amendment's framers had intended to include freed slaves and people of color who resided in America but enjoyed no status.<br />
Unfortunately, manipulation followed. <br />
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Some concluded that American citizenship amounted to "flying over to have a baby," subsequently taking advantage of the easy "chain migration" standard. Others concluded that it translated to "making a mad dash across the desert" in hopes of getting through border security, with the goal of "knocking out a baby."<br />
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When Donald Trump took exception to both practices, he was called a racist, bigot, fascist, NAZI, white supremacist and everything in between!<br />
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The amendment required that all voters be United States Citizens. <br />
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It also called for basing congressional representation on "U.S. Citizens not persons." This idea actually was introduced a decade earlier by then Louisiana Senator, David Vitter. If adopted, California would lose six House seats, New York two and Illinois one. Oregon, Indiana, Tennessee, North Carolina,Georgia, Texas, Nebraska and Montana would add a seat each.<br />
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The "E" amendment proposed a "points" system for immigration, beginning with English proficiency and age. It also gave points for levels of education, profession and/ or a trade. Lastly, it gave points for country of origin. Those applicants from N.A.T.O. countries would be given a preference.<br />
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The proposed "American English Unification Amendment," AKA the "E" Amendment, would make English the official language by constitutional amendment. The previously named measures would be included.<br />
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Then Pro-English Director, Jayne Cannava called the proposed "E" Amendment, "a magnificent way to accelerate assimilation." U.S. English Director, Mario Mujica added that "87% of Americans favored" making English the official language in the country..<br />
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As expected, the American left would vehemently object to the proposed amendment. Mainly because it would eliminate "cheating" as a path to citizenship! Not to mention, winning elections! In their minds, those favoring passage of the E" amendment would be nothing short of "racists, bigots, fascists, NAZIs,and white supremacists."<br />
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Anticipating violence, the book called for "Eagles for America," a grassroots, nationwide support base, who would counter any insurgency that would be certain to spring from this amendment. While the book called for "non-violence," it is predictable that the "Eagles"would become the counter balance to ANTIFA. <br />
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The book suggested a concerted lobbying effort, designed to encourage politicians to pass the amendment, heavily relying on social media. In reality, "Eagles for America" could become a counter balance to the ANTIFA mobs.<br />
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From a constitutional perspective, it is easy to argue that 38 states would ratify this amendment. I have not heard from the President as of yet. But, he was mailed a copy of "E" is for English. I would think that if it makes it through his handlers, he might be the first to advocate it.<br />
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One thing is for certain: If "E" were the law of the land, there would be no Florida controversy at hand at this writing. <br />
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Also a definite is we would have a "stronger, smarter, more secure nation" as the book promised.<br />
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Jeff B. Willishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01507436173521876645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3172438405174968302.post-58313412399081923412018-11-04T13:22:00.000-08:002018-11-05T06:06:33.433-08:00America's Four ChoicesThese storied midterms will essentially come down to four choices for America.<br />
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Republicans will do must better than predicted by pundits. In addition to comfortably holding the House of Representatives, they will add six Senate seats. Trump will enter 2019 with unsurpassed confidence, calling it a mandate.<br />
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Republicans will win a disappointing but satisfactory three Senate seats, and hold the House by the most narrow of margins: four seats or less. There will be anger demonstrated by the Democrats. Hopefully it won't result in violence.<br />
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Republicans will win a disappointing, yet effective three to four Senate seats but watch the Democrats pick up a 28 House seats, a thin yet decisive win. Democrats are faced with a quandary: Stay with Nancy Pelosi and risk the majority again in 2020? Or, go with a fresh face? <br />
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Democrats shock the world by picking up one Senate seat, bringing their total to 50. In the House, they notch a strong 38 seat pickup. It would be hard to imagine not hearing cries of voting fraud with this outcome!<br />
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Let's start with choice four. It will be difficult for Democrats to win in Texas or Tennessee. People are scared! There is more concern about open borders than ever before in Texas. Tennessee's largest city, Nashville is booming! The capital is in Nashville. Marsha Blackburn is their girl! East Tennessee has always been overwhelming Republican.<br />
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Democrats might sweep Arizona, Nevada and Montana. But, chances are better that Trump sweeps them. Two out of three is more probable both ways. Republicans only need to win two out of three.<br />
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Indiana and West Virginia? I don't know about the latter. Joe Manchin is likable. His opponent is competent and committed. Tt comes down to "how truly uncomfortable" people are with either candidate. If Hooster state Libertarians decide to break for one of the major parties, Donnally will lose.<br />
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I think both North Dakota and Missouri are lost causes for Democrats.<br />
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Which brings us to Florida. This may be the most important state of all. If Scott ousts Nelson(which he should) and people figure out Andrew Gillum, (which most are doing), both Scott and Ron Desantis will win. Unfortunately, a lot of Floridians have already voted. The Governor's extra time spent with disaster victims in the Panhandle and Trump's visit to Pensacola, may prove pivotal with turnout.<br />
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When casting this analysis, it is easy to see why the third scenario looks most likely. In fact, it could set the table to a 2020 landslide, if the Congress retains Nancy Pelosi as speaker and plays the obstruction-impeachment game! <br />
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Choice two is what most Republican operatives optimistically predict. Maybe it's wishful thinking. I would think that a three seat Senate pickup might spell doom in 2020, because it would likely not include Florida. Retaining the House by narrowest of margins would be good news for Republicans wanting Kevin McCarthy as House Speaker.<br />
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Choice one would set the standard for future presidential midterms.<br />
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Should Republicans hold the House in comfortable fashion(15 to 25 seats), chances are we'll see Jim Jordan as House Speaker; nine to 15 seats, possibly Steve Scalise. Six pickup Senate seats would probably include Florida, West Virginia, Indiana, Missouri, North Dakota and Montana. The GOP would hold serve on the rest.<br />
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Almost certainly, scenarios one and two will result in the wall being built. Immigration reform will finally happen. We will have a market based healthcare system that will lower the costs for everyone. The roads and bridges will get fixed. The trade deals will be finalized, to America's benefit. We will improve relations with previously hostile countries.<br />
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Finally, options one and two will allow the "swamp to be drained."<br />
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Make no mistake! Allow options three and four, and the swamp will survive and thrive. <br />
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These are the choices.<br />
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Jeff B. Willishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01507436173521876645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3172438405174968302.post-14940037752951913922018-10-28T07:30:00.001-07:002018-10-28T07:52:58.685-07:002018 Midterms Most Pivotal in HistoryIt is unfolding in front of our eyes!<br />
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The battle for America. Faith based National Populism versus Secular Global Socialism.<br />
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How it ever come to this?<br />
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Not surprisingly, it started with greed. And, a lust for power. What else is new in the the worlds historic, if not poignant journey?<br />
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Next question. How?<br />
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For the longest, America has been enmeshed in a very basic question: "Are we a Republic?" Or, "are we a Democracy?"<br />
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Both Republicans and Democrats use the term "Democracy" so loosely. Yet, there is a distinct difference. Democracy translate to "rule by the majority." Republican amounts to "rule by a set of adopted laws."<br />
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Why is one better than the other?<br />
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For those advocating "Democracy," it is easily explained as "one person, one vote."<br />
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Republicans maintain that a doctrine of law is established and we live by it.<br />
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Sounds simple enough. Herein may lie the problem.<br />
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"The "one vote, one person" standard would be perfect, if we lived in a perfect world. But, we don't. History has proven that if an individual or small group can control the masses, they can effectively influence these voters. They call this an "oligarchy."<br />
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This defines the modern Democrat party. Case in point: Florida. Three "Oligarchs," Michael Bloomberg, Tom Steyer and George Soros have collectively poured tens of millions of dollars in the Florida Gubernatorial race. Their candidate: Tallahassee Mayor, Andrew Gillum.<br />
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Why? Power. Control.<br />
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The Republican candidate is Ron DeSantis. DeSantis graduated from Yale before earning his J.D. at Harvard's Law School. He later received a reserved officer's commission, subsequently assigned to the Judge Advocate General Corp(J.A.G.). From there, it was on to Iraq in the 2007 surge. DeSantis ultimately received a Bronze Star and and Iraq campaign metal for his service <br />
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Then, it was on the United States Congress where he was one of the original founders of the Freedom caucus. Most recently, he served on the House Judiciary Committee and was a key challenger to Robert Mueller's investigation. Not surprisingly, he drew President Donald Trump's endorsement.<br />
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Whew! Sounds like a future Presidential candidate!<br />
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Conversely, when examining Gillum's resume and the growing corruption that has epitomized his stay in Tallahassee, one would conclude, "this must be a joke!" Yet, at this writing, the race is too close to call! The infusion of Oligarch cash can do that!<br />
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In Texas, these same Oligarchs have poured tens of millions into Robert Francis "Beto" O'Rourke's Senate challenge to Ted Cruz. Experts are predicting that this will represent the most expensive Senate race in history.<br />
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And the list goes on and on! Even down to the Kentucky 6th District House race, where transient Democrat challenger, Amy McGrath is attempting to unseat incumbent, Andy Barr, a staunch Trump ally. Practically zero of McGrath's financial support has come from inside the Commonwealth. <br />
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With careful analysis, it's easy enough to conclude that these Oligarchs indeed have an agenda: To get even more wealthy than they already are. In the case of Warren Buffet, it amounts to retaining tax credits that return millions into his personal coffers! Ditto for Bill Gates and Mark Cuban.<br />
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Thus, Congressional control will determine if the Trump agenda moves forward. Or, more specifically, if we stay on course to return control to America's middle class. OR, stop this trend in it tracks; with hope for a return to the Obama standard of "A protected place for the privileged few, and Socialism for the rest."<br />
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Too stark of a contrast? Not hardly! Here is your clue.<br />
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Estimates as high as 94% assess the mainstream media's coverage of the administration has been negative. 94%! Not acceptable! <br />
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In a previous post, we undertook the history of communications, including over-the-air television in America. A possible solution was introduced. In a future post, we will expand on this remedy. Unfortunately, at least for now, the MSM remains in the hands of the Oligarchs and those promoting Secular Global Socialism.<br />
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The good news for those opposing "a protected place for the privileged few and socialism for the rest," is Donald Trump. The president has essentially given the main stream media the "middle finger," taking his case directly to the American people. Never has a president worked so hard to make certain that his allies were given a "level playing field."<br />
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Will it be enough? If turnout is a consideration, it just might be. Should the Republicans hold both House and Senate, we should be set for a final accounting. In short, "draining the swamp" amounts to "flushing the snakes from the woodpile."<br />
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Most mysterious is the "doglike deference" continuously demonstrated by some life long Democrats to these Oligarchs and their ultimate plan for America. If they were true to their fathers and grandfathers, they would be talking about a conspiracy theory; a massive plan to undermine the American idea by these Oligarchs. Instead, they remain silent, in hope that they might receive some of their "crumbs." <br />
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Former Speaker, Nancy Pelosi had the word "crumbs" right. She merely directed it to the wrong people.<br />
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Jeff B. Willishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01507436173521876645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3172438405174968302.post-42436454586295720532018-10-14T10:37:00.000-07:002018-10-14T10:37:06.273-07:00Democrats Pushing Lottery, Chain Migration, Open Borders Donald Trump has a gift of taking a confusing subject and translating it into laymen's terms.<br />
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In Richmond Kentucky last night, I saw the greatest argument yet against chain migration.<br />
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The President started with a man who had entered the country via the immigration lottery. He subsequently committed a crime that left numbers of people dead or maimed. He then "lawyered up." Some are now predicting "fifteen years" of motions, appeals and delays that will precede ultimate sentencing. <br />
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Meanwhile this man immigrated 19 people, via chain migration. They included his parents, sister, grandparent,three aunts, two uncles and ten cousins. Nineteen people! And literary every single one got on the entitlement rolls. Not one went into the work force. NOT ONE!<br />
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For three decades, the Democrats have relied on political correctness, to maintain this malignant practice. To make a stink about it would suggest racism and bigotry. Republicans, as a whole, remained silent.<br />
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Donald Trump didn't! In fact, he went one step further. He proclaimed that most countries were limiting applicants for the American lottery to people they didn't want.<br />
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I recall an enlightening discussion with Ed Brankey, a Charleston, Illinois based immigration attorney. Brankey made it clear. "Half the planet would immigrate to America is so allowed."<br />
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That's the heart of the immigration debate. Two questions that each American needs to ask. "Should we allow all who want to come here? Should we continue to make luck and proximity our primary standards for immigration?"<br />
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Democrats say, "yes."<br />
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Republicans say, "no."<br />
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Laura Ingraham took enormous heat when accusing Democrats of "wanting to change the demographics in America.." She immediately met self righteous howls from Nancy Pelosi and others, accusing Ingraham of being a racist and a bigot.<br />
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Yet, the porous Southern border has become a major campaign issue. Those saying "no" to a wall are increasingly seen as "advocates for a change in American demographics." P.C. or not, it just is.<br />
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Trump's practical analysis amounted to, "we are creating record numbers of jobs. But, we need qualified immigrants to fill many of these jobs. That's why we need a "merit based" immigration system.<br />
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This is sound rationale! <br />
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We are bringing jobs back to our shores. But, we may be short on people who can fill many of these jobs. This was the Obama Administration's position; and reason for allowing high tech jobs to be shipped offshore. "We don't have the skilled workers." <br />
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Trump is saying, "I have a better idea! Let's bring those skilled workers here."<br />
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Trump's argument is valid. Since "half" the planet wants to come to America, why not take advantage of it! Let's get the world's best! Not, the world's unwanted and their extended families!<br />
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Tough to counter this position! <br />
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The type immigrants Trump is talking about are the ones who would immediately be included on the tax rolls. They might even become, God forbid, "new Republicans!"<br />
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Jeff B. Willishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01507436173521876645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3172438405174968302.post-22200708930057395782018-10-07T11:00:00.002-07:002018-10-07T11:00:43.616-07:00Kavenaugh Hearings Unmasked Left Wing Fascism The enemy is real.<br />
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The last few weeks, American Conservatives got a front row seat into what could have been an inevitable fate. Left wing fascists sought an end to "presumed innocence." It is now up to us to insure no follow-up action is possible.<br />
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The midterms mean everything. Literally the whole enchilada! If Pelosi is speaker, we will have two years of gridlock. At best! If the Senate slips away... Too horrible to even think about!<br />
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American is experiencing another dreaded "clash of perceptions." The last such clash took place in the early 1860's. <br />
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"Faith Based National Populism" versus "Secular Global Socialism."<br />
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With the former, it's "living by law outlined in our Constitution. The latter favors "mob rule, emphasizing coercion through intimidation." <br />
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The President is canvasing the country, hitting every possible congressional district, pleading for turnout. Most dreaded is the thought of Democrats stealing enough districts to eek out a slim margin. 218 is the magic number.<br />
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Trump thinks that he can tip the scales in at least a half dozen of these districts. It might prove to be enough. If he can't, well...<br />
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The Senate is looking better. Tennessee has apparently awakened to the fact that good guy, ex-Governor, Phil Bresden may be on the wrong side of history. Joe Donnelly will not be re-elected in Indiana. Heidi Heitcamp is "dead meat!" Claire McCaskill should be collecting boxes; she'll be cleaning out her office in a few weeks.<br />
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Searching for an issue that would win support with South Florida environmentalists, Republican Gubernatorial Candidate, Ron DeSantis joined Incumbent GOP Congressman, Brian Mast to take on "Big Sugar." <br />
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Historically critical of Big Sugar's practices as Governor, Senate candidate, Rick Scott has joined them, blaming much on Incumbent Bill Nelson's laissez-faire approach to the industry. My money is on all three to win. Trump's passionate endorsement won't hurt!<br />
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Remaining are three Western States. Republicans hold two of them: Arizona and Nevada. Both are considered toss-ups. So is Montana, where Jon Tester is hoping that strong Republican turnout doesn't happen. While "two out of three" would be good for Republicans(and highly possible), a sweep is not out of the question!<br />
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And then there are those "what if" states, such as Minnesota and New Jersey. Remember, we're talking Al Franken's seat in the Gopher state. Former Lieutenant Governor, Tina Smith is no heavyweight! The state is trending to "purple" status.<br />
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New Jersey Senate incumbent, Bob Menendez narrowly avoided prison in a recent racketeering charge! His well funded, self funded, opponent, Bob Hugin has launched a barrage of recent television ads detailing the list of Menendez' scandals. They are extensive!<br />
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Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin have well funded, liberal, incumbent Senators. They should survive. Yet, with this recent unmasking of the left, "walk-a-ways" are highly possible. There are growing numbers of Independents in all four states. All four Senators voted against Kavanaugh's confirmation. <br />
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West Virginia? My guess is Joe Manchin wins and subsequently switches party affiliation, in exchange for a key committee chairmanship. <br />
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In short, Republicans have reason to feel cautiously optimistic!<br />
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House control will allow investigations of the Deep State to continue. This will lead to the ultimate "unmasking" of those who were behind the entire movement. That many of the greatest perpetrators were members of the Obama administration including Barack Obama himself, spells conflict.<br />
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At that point, America will know the truth. For many, it doesn't matter. <br />
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The adversary hates this country. They simply want to destroy it; make it into something our fathers and grandfathers feared fifty years ago. <br />
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This is the Marxist movement. It began with Political correctness, the essence of cultural Marxism. Next came ANTIFA, their violent arm. For decades they have appointed judges who have were influenced by the infamous "Frankfurt School."<br />
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Their terminology can best be phrased as "A protected place for the privileged few, and Communism for everyone else."<br />
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This is who we are facing. The question becomes, "should these anti-Americans have a place on this continent?"<br />
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Jeff B. Willishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01507436173521876645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3172438405174968302.post-11346887027607951782018-09-30T08:32:00.002-07:002018-09-30T08:32:19.075-07:00"Dark Side" Meant to Accommodate American OligarchsLast week, I received an invoice from American Express. When I closely examined the correspondence, it became apparent that it was an offer to settle.<br />
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Puzzled, I called the number on the invoice. A heavily accented voice that suggested India or Pakistan told me that American Express was making me "a one time offer;" accepting $483 to satisfy the alleged $1239 owed.<br />
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Craning the depths of memory, I recalled a different Jeff Willis who evidently was delinquent on an American Express card. It had been resolved then, in 2009. Yet here, nine years later, it continued to surface.<br />
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When I relayed these findings to the gentleman on the phone, he began asking the normal questions: "Birthday, last four numbers of my social, home address..." <br />
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I stopped him, realizing that I was witnessing a "phishing scam." Instead I reminded him that "no revolving debt was collectible in Kentucky after five years and no derogatory could be reported to the credit bureaus after 84 months." <br />
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His retort was that I only had to pay $483 and they would accept a 12-month payment plan. I told him to stop harassing me and hung up.<br />
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Unfortunately, there are many conscientious Americans, especially older Americans who aren't aware of debt recovery statute of limitations guidelines. And, they zealously guard their bureaus.<br />
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Also true is if one payment had been made, the clock would reset and they would be responsible for the debt. Because, in making the payment, they would acknowledge that the debt was indeed theirs.<br />
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Unbeknownst to many Americans are schemes and scams globally involving collection of old debt. Debt recovery companies can afford to pursue them because, the old debt may be purchased for "pennies" on the dollar and the offshore help used to expedite is cheap.<br />
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Worse still, by sharing Americans personal information, they expose them to identity theft, the world's fastest growing crime.<br />
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There are many who would say "that's just the way that it is." In other words, the whole system is rigged to screw everyday Americans and there is nothing that we can do about it.<br />
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Or is there?<br />
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In a previous post, I referenced a conversation with Congressional Aide, Kevin Wysoki regarding a "clean-up" of the debt recovery industry. Corrective measure included "precluding" any job that required use of an American's social security number from offshore outsourcing. <br />
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Sounds plausible. In fact, I haven't talked to a single person who didn't think that it wasn't a "brilliant" idea! Yet some oppose. Who are they? And why would they oppose?<br />
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The answers are "Fortune 500 companies" and "such action would reduce their profit margins."<br />
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A.T. & T., one of the greatest perpetrators, would explain that "rates would need to be increased" because of the high labor costs in America. In other words, "their unions" wouldn't allow it. <br />
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I pointed out to Wysoki, that A.T. & T. might "consider placing these mostly call center jobs in right-to-work states." Yet even then, we would be talking about minimum wage, which begins at $7.25 per hour which, according to A. T. & T., nobody would want anyway!<br />
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Think again!<br />
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There is a low cost labor market that isn't being utilized to the greatest extent. They are older workers, age 62-66 who are currently eligible for early social security. Unfortunately, it isn't enough to live on. However, an additional $18,000 per year is allowed without compromising the entitlement.<br />
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Suddenly, a $7.25 per hour call center job looks appealing. Especially when considering that this worker could become eligible for A. T. & T.'s very good medical and dental plan!<br />
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The Fortune 500 companies would argue that their offshore help works for much less; often $200-$300 per month, with no benefits. This math would effectively "quintuple" their labor costs. <br />
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Really? Has anyone ever dealt with this "help?" I have! I can tell you first hand, conducting business takes three to four times longer; because the offshore party is speaking in a second language and has difficulty understanding, or being understood by the American!<br />
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Thus, the "labor bargain" isn't really that big of a bargain. Or, at least, not for the American who is forced to waste time to accommodate the international service provider.<br />
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Then comes the vetting; or lack thereof. <br />
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The end result is an open door to "phishermen" and scammers!<br />
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Is there any relief in sight? <br />
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It won't be easy. Politicians are reluctant to take on these big companies. Not to mention Oligarchs such as Michael Bloomberg, Warren Buffet or Tom Steyer. These billionaires see such preclusion as a serious hit to their bottom lines. Congressmen don't welcome the prospect of being targeted by these interests.<br />
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People are now fully understanding what Donald Trump meant when he called our system "rigged." <br />
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Are there other remedies that could be used? Yes. It is called a "boycott."<br />
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A nation wide boycott of companies employing offshore help that "require use of all or part of a social" would gain traction immediately. In fact, the mere threat might force these companies to rethink the practice. <br />
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Jeff B. Willishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01507436173521876645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3172438405174968302.post-78364634268372192062018-09-23T08:52:00.000-07:002018-09-23T08:52:55.573-07:00Coastal Elites Funding Future Surrogates Follow the money!<br />
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I was astounded to hear that Nevada Democrat Senate Challenger, Jackie Rosen had received 90% of her campaign funding from out-of-state sources. At least, that's what President Donald J.Trump revealed in Las Vegas earlier this week. <br />
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Trump was campaigning for Republican Incumbent, Dean Heller in what pundits suggest is a "toss up" race that could be decided by one or two percentage points. Those who were listening will likely be less impressed with Rosen, when comparing how much out-of-state money is supporting Rosen versus where Heller's financial support base largely falls.<br />
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Rosen's position mirrors the far left of the national DNC. We're talking, "Bernie people." <br />
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"Open borders. Healthcare for all, including those in the country illegally. Suffocating regulations. High Taxes." It's all there!<br />
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In 2016, Heller wasn't Trump's best friend! Fair to say is that while not a "Never Trumper," Heller was close! His views were more in sync with those of Mitt Romney. Yet...<br />
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Trump asked for a chance. He convinced conservative, Danny Tarkanian NOT to challenge Heller in the primary. He threw his weight behind Heller's fund raising effort. And asked Heller to look at his program with an open mindedness that befitted great men.<br />
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Heller did. So did other Neo-Cons, including Mitt Romney. Keynesian though they were, they grudgingly admitted that results are results!<br />
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They also acknowledged that "Rosen's bunch" were essentially like "Bernie's people." They are Socialists. A booming economy is meaningless, in their mind, if it not accompanied by universal health care for all, free college tuition, open borders and reduced law enforcement.<br />
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Here's what happens!<br />
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Open borders and reduced law enforcement will set America on a crime spree like never recorded or imagined. Only then will the public acquiesce! They will happily relinquish their hidden weapons, in exchange for the government's assurance that safety is guaranteed. Or, at least most of the women will! <br />
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People often forget that the Soviet Union, while awash with grievances, was relatively crime free. Once we reach that point, it will be too late.<br />
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Neo-Cons do recognize this as clearly as anyone. By nature, they are globalists. By culture, they are Keynesian. But, they do appreciate results and recognize threats!<br />
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Establishment Democrats fear this "coming to terms" of Trump's Populists with GOP Establishment. A fracture has opened within their party, pitting their establishment against "Bernie's people" and "Jackie's bunch."<br />
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There was hope that a bridge might come together with enough Republicans to neutralize the Trump agenda, while quelling the rise of "Socialist Democrats." That looks doubtful. <br />
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The question: "Can Democrats tell Americans who are doing better than they were in 2016, that they are actually not doing that well?"<br />
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Perhaps the country's most vivid illustration is the Kentucky 6th race. Incumbent, Andy Barr is attempting to stave off a well funded challenge from retired Lieutenant Colonel, Amy McGrath.<br />
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Amy McGrath was not initially supported by either Kentucky's Democrat Establishment or the DNC. Her primary opponent, Jim Gray, is the Mayor of Lexington. While beaten soundly by Rand Paul in the 2016 Senate race, he was hands down favorite to face Barr in the Congressional midterm. <br />
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McGrath quietly turned to her money sources.<br />
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When asked, the money is there; if you are committed to their agenda. Those who watched Bernie Sanders, 2016 campaign got a "whiff" of it. It's about Socialism and none of "Bernie's people" are denying it. Nor are "Jackie's bunch!"<br />
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Neither are young, "up and comers" such as NY Congressional candidate, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Tallahassee Mayor, turned Gubernatorial candidate, Andrew Gillum. It is in these quarters where we find Amy McGrath...<br />
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Her opposition has worked to "strip the bark off of her." It has uncovered a slick campaign, utilizing Amy's noteworthy military record to "camouflage" an agenda that mirrors that of Sanders. Or, at least, closely mirrors it...<br />
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Her stance on health care is literally a duplicate. It amounts to "single payer, health care for everyone." Never mind if they are legally in the country! How to pay for it? You guessed it! Higher taxes. McGrath opposed the 2017 tax cuts. Vehemently.<br />
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She was also obsessed with the United States staying in the Paris Climate Accord. In her thinking, "it isn't just about Kentucky." But, WHO is she asking to allow her to represent them?<br />
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Amy's position on the 2nd Amendment is literally a carbon copy of Sander's. In her thinking, "the government needs to know where every single weapon is."<br />
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Like Bernie, Amy is an outspoken advocate against building the wall. Her positions on border security are surprisingly in sync with Jerry Brown's...<br />
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Her money? Ever hear of a California billionaire by the name of Tom Steyer? How about George Soros? Amazingly, these are the same guys who are supporting Jackie Rosen's Senate campaign in Nevada and Andrew Gillum's Governor's run in Florida.<br />
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When Amy McGrath appeared on the scene, 6th District Democrat party bosses concluded that she would be too far out of the mainstream to be seriously considered. That's why they supported Gray. While sufficiently Progressive, he isn't in the "Orasio-Cortez/Gillum/Rosen" crowd. Amy is.<br />
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6th District isn't exactly a "purple" district. Donald Trump won it by 27% in 2016. In both '08 and '12 Barack Obama was soundly beaten. On paper, it would appear that McGrath would face long odds.<br />
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Still, money is key. When candidates are willing to promise anything for funding, they generally find a bottomless reservoir of ready donors. <br />
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With those funds they can fill the airwaves with lies and irregularities. It will come down to how people feel today, as compared to this time two years ago. <br />
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The President knows this better than anyone. Look for him to place double emphasis on "who" is funding these Democrat candidates and "where the money is coming from."<br />
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Jeff B. Willishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01507436173521876645noreply@blogger.com0