"All roads lead to Nashville, it's never far away..."
Such would be the theme of a proposed "Red State" Convention. The site would be Music City. The theme: "redefining or replacing the modern Republican Party."
The party has become too fractured. Maybe it's due to a base that wasn't around at the time of the party's inception. The origin and history of the GOP is not the subject of this post. Of greater concern is "where are we now and where are we going from here?"
It begins with defining an America that most of us want. It has nothing to do with party. Democrats as well as Independents would be welcomed, literally urged to attend the convention. The goal: "to finally undermine an order that has gradually and systematically stolen our country from us." It begins with a platform that includes the following 15 planks:
1)Term limits for Congressmen and Senators. Two, six-year terms for Senators. Six, two-year terms for Congressmen.
2)Repeal of the 17th Amendment
3)Actual ratification of the 16th amendment.(The amendment was never ratified by 3/4 of the states).
4)Elimination of all federal employees(non-military) from pension rolls. Elected officials would be included. They would pay into and receive Social Security like the rest of Americans. They would be given 401ks like the private sector. The overall Federal non-military wage would be made consistent with the current private sector average.(It is currently 60% higher)
5) Congressional pay would be cut in half, the jobs made part time.
6) Elimination of the Departments of Education, Energy and Commerce. E.P.A. would be returned to it's original focus, the staff reduced to 1975 levels.
7)Obamacare would be replaced with a "half-penny" national sales tax that would be used solely for the creation of a catastrophic fund. The fund would be only accessible if a claim reached $10,000. This would be done in conjunction with (a) the removing of location restrictions(allowing insurance companies to cross state lines) and the (b) implementation of "loser pays" tort reform.
8) Adoption of English as official language and accompanying measures as outlined in my book.
9)Instigation of a federal land sell-off to Americans. The revenues would be used to pay down the federal debt.
10) Full repeal of Dodd-Frank and all measures adopted since 2008.
11) Reduction of corporate income tax to 15%.
12) Elimination of Capital Gains tax for families making less than $500,000 per year
13) Elimination of Department of Homeland Security
14) Adoption of an immigration reform plan that would target young, well educated applicants, already fluent in English. Applicants from N.A.T.O. countries would be given a preference. Those in America through "no fault of their own" would be given a "probationary path" to citizenship.
15)Fully invigorating NASA with short and long term objectives for space exploration. An emphasis would be placed on public/private sector ventures that would include international partners.
The ideology behind all 15 measures is relatively simple: "To reduce the size, scope and cost of the federal government." Individual ingenuity would return to the forefront. A premium would once again be placed upon American immagination and creativity. A less menacing federal hand would spawn enhanced innovation.
Nashville symbolizes all of these ideals. Could we not think of a better city to begin our journey?
This isn't a Republican "wish list." A lot of Republicans would have problems with many of the measures. The question becomes, "are there sufficient Republicans willing to embrace them as a whole?"
Should the the answer be "80% of the party," it will then become a question of "how many" Democrats and Independents will move over. If not, then a "replacement party"(I call them "Jeffersonians" for illustrative purposes) will send the Republicans the way of the Whig party.
In actuality, all these positions epitomize the American Dream. Anyone wanting to share in the dream is welcomed. But, it is a frightening illusion for the status quot. Over time, they have constructed an American nobility. At stake is power and control. Losing that by reducing the size, scope and cost of government would be a direct flight ticket to their demise.
Saturday, November 23, 2013
Saturday, November 9, 2013
An Economist's Perspective on the Civil War
The American Civil War is one of the most storied topics in history. It was, as the late T. Harry Williams described, "a tragic clash of perceptions."
The war's actual cause has been debated. Southern historians describe it as a "battle for states rights." The typical New England response then and now is "a war to emancipate those held in bondage." Mainstream America eventually concluded that it was "wrong for the South to secede and it paid the price for it."
The question still not totally answered amounts to "why would the South risk economic ruin on a principle?" Or, was it merely a principle.
Another perception is rendered through a journalist, who happens to have taken the study of economics to a different realm. G. Edward Griffin is not a Southerner. He was born in New Jersey. He received his undergraduate degree from the University of Michigan and later did graduate study at the University of Denver. Today, he resides in Westlake Village, California.
In Griffin's eye opening book, "The Creature from Jekyll Island," he recounted the primary cause. He writes:
"The South, being predominantly an agricultural region, had to import practically all manufacturered goods from the Northern states or from Europe, both of which reciprocated by providing a market for the South's cotton. However,many of the textiles and manufacturered items were considerably cheaper from Europe, even after the cost of shipping had been added. The Southern states, therefore, often found it to their advantage to purchase these European goods rather than those made in the North. This put considerable competitive pressure on the American manufacturers to lower their prices and operate more efficiently.
"The Republicans were not satisfied with that arrangement. Theydecided to use the power of the federal government to tip the scales of competition in their favor. Claiming that this was in the "national interest," theylevied stiff import duties on almost everything coming from Europe that was also manufactured in the North. Not surprisingly, there was no duty applied to cotton which, presumedly was not a commodity in the national interest. One result was that the Europeon countries countered by stopping the purchase of U.S. cotton, which badly hurt the Southern economy. The other result was that manufacturers in the North were able to charge higher prices without fear of competition, and the South was forced to pay more for practically all of its necessities. It was a classic case of legalized plunder in which the law was used to enrich one group of citizens at the expense of another."
In the end, the South wanted out.
German Chancellor, Otto von Bismarck observed that it was "high financial powers in Europe," who had "decided years earlier" that it would be "in their best interest" if the United States was divided into "federations of equal force." In truth, these European bankers were afraid of the United States. By staying together the U.S. could "upset their financial domination over Europe and the world."
There was no doubt that both England and France had their eyes on the conflict. Shortly after Fort Sumter, France had landed troops in Mexico. By 1864, having ended all Mexican resistence, the French Monarch installed Ferdinand Maximillian, Emperor.
At the same time England moved 11,000 troops into Canada.
The war became extremely unpopular in the north. Midwesterners coined the phrase, "a rich man's war and a poor man's fight." Abraham Lincoln was forced to use the military to quell riots in New York City. Only the beguiling genius of Governor Oliver Morton, kept Indiana from dropping out of the war in 1862. Farmers resisting the draft in Southern Illinois were hung without mercy, their property burned.
In the end, more Americans died in the Civil War than all other wars combined. Lincoln is said to have compromised the constitution in an effort to save the nation.People were arrested and thrown into prison without due process. Disenters were denied Habeas Corpus. They included Indiana Senator, Samuel Milligan, Ohio Congressman, Clement Valandinghm and Kentucky Associated Press Correspondent, Martin Barr.
There was also the question of banking and funding an unpopular war. Lincoln faced a dilemma: "How to not only convince Americans in the north to die for the war but to pay for it." This was an impossibilty in itself. As Griffin writes:
"During the year ending in 1861, expenses of the federal government had been 61 million. After the first year of armed conflict they were $475 million and, by 1865 had risen to one billion, three hundred thousand dollars. On the income side of the ledger, taxes covered only about eleven per cent of that figure. By the end of the war,the deficit had risen to 2.61 billion."
The solution: Greenbacks! In 1862 Congress authorized the Treasury to issue 150 million bills of credit and place them into circulation as legal tender. Their green printing earned them the name, "greenbacks." They could be used to pay private debts but not duties or taxes. At that time, Treasury Secretary, Salmon P.Chase called them an "indispenable necessity." Eight years later, as Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, he declared them unconstitutional.
During this time, the Rothchild consortium in Great Britain was consolidating their industrial holdings in the United States through their agent, August Belmont. It has been rumored that Belmont scheduled a meeting with Lincoln. It was then that he offered the president Rothchild money at 27.5 per cent interest. Lincoln exploded, allegedly throwing Belmont out of his office.
According to Griffin, "Lincoln objected to having the government pay interest to banks for money they created out of nothing when the government can create money out of nothing just as easily and not pay interest on it."
Of course, nothing is free. Americans on both sides paid for the war; through the backdoor tax of inflation. Lincoln ignored the fact that the Constitution explicitly forbids what ultimately amounted to "plunder-by-inflation."
A great number of Americans consider Abraham Lincoln our finest president. He certainly was willing to save the union, at any and all costs! The question becomes, "could the entire war have been averted to begin with?"
Evidence is overwhelming that the South was already anticipating paying freedman wages as they looked toward industrialization. There was an argument that immediate emancipation would result in the starvation of thousands of newly freed slaves. This did occur. The vaguely remembered "Corwin Amendment" passed in February 1861, making it illegal for the federal government to seize property of individuals. At no time did Lincoln state that he would free slaves if elected.
Lincoln certainly understood the realities of protectionism. His problem was the proponents were the men who rode him into office! In retrospect it is highly probable that the entire war would have been avoided had the Northern industrialists been more flexible and compromising. A strong case can be made for their "provoking" the South into secession.
An equally strong argument can be asserted that the firing at Fort Sumter was a matter of "defending ones territory," and that the North's invasion of the South was illegal. After all, the Constitution does not prohibit secession. In fact, it was never suggested by any of the framers that the union could be enforced by the use of arms!
From this perspective, reparations paid by the North to the South would be in order.
There is the other question that remains. What if the South had gained independence? Would it have been swallowed up by the France or England and their greedy European banking cartels? Nobody will ever truly know.
The Confederate Constitution called for one, six-year presidential term. It is almost a certainty that Robert E. Lee would have been elected President in 1867.In Stephen Mallory, the Confederacy had a "gem" of a Secretary of the Navy. The South enjoyed strong commonalities with Cuba. The island was rife with turmoil. Spain had earlier considered selling it to the United States in 1857. There would have been overwhelming support in the South for acquisition.
With thousands of miles of shared borders, it would have been easy for the South to have "liberated" the Mexican people from France, then annexing the entire country. We must remember that both Arizona and New Mexico had been claimed by the Confederacy. It should likewise not be forgotten that the "perfect society" theory prevailed in the Southern states. It is believed that many freed slaves would have been "funneled" into Mexico as John Tyler had predicted twenty-five years earlier.
It is also probable that some, if not all of the Midwestern states would have eventually joined the Southern states. By the middle of 1862, it had become clear that they were fighting to enrich banking and railroad interests in the Northeast.
Griffin concludes that there "is no reason to believe that the only way to save the Union was to scrap the Constitution. If fact, if the constitution had been meticulously observed from the very beginning, the Southern minority could never have been legally plundered by the Northern majority and there likely would have been no movement for secession in the first place.
"The result would have been, not only the preservation of the Union without war, but Americans would be enjoying far less government intervention in their daily lives today."
The war's actual cause has been debated. Southern historians describe it as a "battle for states rights." The typical New England response then and now is "a war to emancipate those held in bondage." Mainstream America eventually concluded that it was "wrong for the South to secede and it paid the price for it."
The question still not totally answered amounts to "why would the South risk economic ruin on a principle?" Or, was it merely a principle.
Another perception is rendered through a journalist, who happens to have taken the study of economics to a different realm. G. Edward Griffin is not a Southerner. He was born in New Jersey. He received his undergraduate degree from the University of Michigan and later did graduate study at the University of Denver. Today, he resides in Westlake Village, California.
In Griffin's eye opening book, "The Creature from Jekyll Island," he recounted the primary cause. He writes:
"The South, being predominantly an agricultural region, had to import practically all manufacturered goods from the Northern states or from Europe, both of which reciprocated by providing a market for the South's cotton. However,many of the textiles and manufacturered items were considerably cheaper from Europe, even after the cost of shipping had been added. The Southern states, therefore, often found it to their advantage to purchase these European goods rather than those made in the North. This put considerable competitive pressure on the American manufacturers to lower their prices and operate more efficiently.
"The Republicans were not satisfied with that arrangement. Theydecided to use the power of the federal government to tip the scales of competition in their favor. Claiming that this was in the "national interest," theylevied stiff import duties on almost everything coming from Europe that was also manufactured in the North. Not surprisingly, there was no duty applied to cotton which, presumedly was not a commodity in the national interest. One result was that the Europeon countries countered by stopping the purchase of U.S. cotton, which badly hurt the Southern economy. The other result was that manufacturers in the North were able to charge higher prices without fear of competition, and the South was forced to pay more for practically all of its necessities. It was a classic case of legalized plunder in which the law was used to enrich one group of citizens at the expense of another."
In the end, the South wanted out.
German Chancellor, Otto von Bismarck observed that it was "high financial powers in Europe," who had "decided years earlier" that it would be "in their best interest" if the United States was divided into "federations of equal force." In truth, these European bankers were afraid of the United States. By staying together the U.S. could "upset their financial domination over Europe and the world."
There was no doubt that both England and France had their eyes on the conflict. Shortly after Fort Sumter, France had landed troops in Mexico. By 1864, having ended all Mexican resistence, the French Monarch installed Ferdinand Maximillian, Emperor.
At the same time England moved 11,000 troops into Canada.
The war became extremely unpopular in the north. Midwesterners coined the phrase, "a rich man's war and a poor man's fight." Abraham Lincoln was forced to use the military to quell riots in New York City. Only the beguiling genius of Governor Oliver Morton, kept Indiana from dropping out of the war in 1862. Farmers resisting the draft in Southern Illinois were hung without mercy, their property burned.
In the end, more Americans died in the Civil War than all other wars combined. Lincoln is said to have compromised the constitution in an effort to save the nation.People were arrested and thrown into prison without due process. Disenters were denied Habeas Corpus. They included Indiana Senator, Samuel Milligan, Ohio Congressman, Clement Valandinghm and Kentucky Associated Press Correspondent, Martin Barr.
There was also the question of banking and funding an unpopular war. Lincoln faced a dilemma: "How to not only convince Americans in the north to die for the war but to pay for it." This was an impossibilty in itself. As Griffin writes:
"During the year ending in 1861, expenses of the federal government had been 61 million. After the first year of armed conflict they were $475 million and, by 1865 had risen to one billion, three hundred thousand dollars. On the income side of the ledger, taxes covered only about eleven per cent of that figure. By the end of the war,the deficit had risen to 2.61 billion."
The solution: Greenbacks! In 1862 Congress authorized the Treasury to issue 150 million bills of credit and place them into circulation as legal tender. Their green printing earned them the name, "greenbacks." They could be used to pay private debts but not duties or taxes. At that time, Treasury Secretary, Salmon P.Chase called them an "indispenable necessity." Eight years later, as Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, he declared them unconstitutional.
During this time, the Rothchild consortium in Great Britain was consolidating their industrial holdings in the United States through their agent, August Belmont. It has been rumored that Belmont scheduled a meeting with Lincoln. It was then that he offered the president Rothchild money at 27.5 per cent interest. Lincoln exploded, allegedly throwing Belmont out of his office.
According to Griffin, "Lincoln objected to having the government pay interest to banks for money they created out of nothing when the government can create money out of nothing just as easily and not pay interest on it."
Of course, nothing is free. Americans on both sides paid for the war; through the backdoor tax of inflation. Lincoln ignored the fact that the Constitution explicitly forbids what ultimately amounted to "plunder-by-inflation."
A great number of Americans consider Abraham Lincoln our finest president. He certainly was willing to save the union, at any and all costs! The question becomes, "could the entire war have been averted to begin with?"
Evidence is overwhelming that the South was already anticipating paying freedman wages as they looked toward industrialization. There was an argument that immediate emancipation would result in the starvation of thousands of newly freed slaves. This did occur. The vaguely remembered "Corwin Amendment" passed in February 1861, making it illegal for the federal government to seize property of individuals. At no time did Lincoln state that he would free slaves if elected.
Lincoln certainly understood the realities of protectionism. His problem was the proponents were the men who rode him into office! In retrospect it is highly probable that the entire war would have been avoided had the Northern industrialists been more flexible and compromising. A strong case can be made for their "provoking" the South into secession.
An equally strong argument can be asserted that the firing at Fort Sumter was a matter of "defending ones territory," and that the North's invasion of the South was illegal. After all, the Constitution does not prohibit secession. In fact, it was never suggested by any of the framers that the union could be enforced by the use of arms!
From this perspective, reparations paid by the North to the South would be in order.
There is the other question that remains. What if the South had gained independence? Would it have been swallowed up by the France or England and their greedy European banking cartels? Nobody will ever truly know.
The Confederate Constitution called for one, six-year presidential term. It is almost a certainty that Robert E. Lee would have been elected President in 1867.In Stephen Mallory, the Confederacy had a "gem" of a Secretary of the Navy. The South enjoyed strong commonalities with Cuba. The island was rife with turmoil. Spain had earlier considered selling it to the United States in 1857. There would have been overwhelming support in the South for acquisition.
With thousands of miles of shared borders, it would have been easy for the South to have "liberated" the Mexican people from France, then annexing the entire country. We must remember that both Arizona and New Mexico had been claimed by the Confederacy. It should likewise not be forgotten that the "perfect society" theory prevailed in the Southern states. It is believed that many freed slaves would have been "funneled" into Mexico as John Tyler had predicted twenty-five years earlier.
It is also probable that some, if not all of the Midwestern states would have eventually joined the Southern states. By the middle of 1862, it had become clear that they were fighting to enrich banking and railroad interests in the Northeast.
Griffin concludes that there "is no reason to believe that the only way to save the Union was to scrap the Constitution. If fact, if the constitution had been meticulously observed from the very beginning, the Southern minority could never have been legally plundered by the Northern majority and there likely would have been no movement for secession in the first place.
"The result would have been, not only the preservation of the Union without war, but Americans would be enjoying far less government intervention in their daily lives today."
Sunday, October 27, 2013
Globalist Bankers Might Support Nullification
G. Edward Griffin's "The Creature from Jekyll Island," states that the Council of Foreign Relations(CFR) is the "true government" of the United States.
Two questions: "Who" makes up the Council of Foreign Relations? And, "why" would Griffin refer to them as the "true government" of America?
The "who" might be better described as the "who's who." Members include a lot of internationally famous people. Bill and Hillary Clinton, David Rockefeller, Colin Powell, Donald Rumsfeld, Tony Blair, Jimmy Carter, Robert Rubin, Faceed Zhakeria, Angelina Jolie and Madeline Albright are all on the roster. Overall there are about 4500 citizens of the world who hold membership.
The next question amounts to "why" is this significant? Inception of the Federal Reserve is the topic of Griffin's book. It began with a secret meeting at Jekyll Island, Georgia. The goal was to gain control of the world's money supply. The interests represented in that posh resort spawned what later amounted to eight banking cartels. They succeeeded.
For the past 100 years, these "interests" have mastered the art of making money from conflict. Beginning with War World One, they gained huge profits by supplying and outfitting both sides. When they ran out of enemies, they created them. "Monsters" in history such as Hitler and Stalin would never have existed without these cartels.
Which side was "right" and which side was "wrong" was never a question. The only concern was "how much money can be made" from the conflict.
They made money from crisis' as well. The great depression and the 2008 banking meltdown sent huge sums to the cartels.
Which brings us to the looming conflict in today's troubled America. If the policies of the Obama Administration are opposed by so much of the nation, "what if" nullification, the topic of last week's post, came to fruition?
Most say that it wouldn't. Naysayers point out, "secession was decided with the Civil War." But, we're not talking about secession. Nullification originally came up in 1828. There were no banking cartels. There was no Federal Reserve. Few were looking at nullification from the standpoint of "how much money" could be made from it!
This isn't the case today!
It is unlikely that nullification would spawn a second civil war. Americans would not begin shooting at each other over the concept. Fighting for principles and ideologies may sound noble. But today's nation of 315 million is slightly different from the America of 31 million in 1861.
It is highly realistic to assume that a mass population migration would result from nullification. It might start with preference for Obamacare. But Federal laws, not included in the Constitution would be evaluated state-to-state.
Just imagine! Ohio decided to keep Dodd-Frank. Kentucky decided not to. Ohio based banks might respond by moving headquarters to the south side of the the Ohio River. The Buckeye state could keep Dodd-Frank and, as conservatives would predict, "watch banking jobs leave the state." The alternative would be to join Kentucky and nullify it. Right? Proponents of Dodd-Frank would predict the contrary!
Right to Work stands as evidence that conservatives know what they are tolking about. Texas Governor, Rick Perry was accused of "job poaching" by noted conservative, Glenn Beck. But, his appeal to companies seeking a more business friendly landscape has resulted in their moving from heavily unionized states such as California, to Texas.
To implement or nullify Obamacare would have a more far reaching impact! There is no doubt that Americans seeking relief from the law, would flock to those states that nullified it. Conversely, those gaining from Obamacare, would attempt to migrate to states that implemented it.
Relocation is always accompanied by real estate activity. Much is spent on homes, building materials, furniture and, of course, the relocation itself. For banks, this amounts to a need for credit. This translates to money!
But wait! Wouldn't this kind of migration impose hardships on states that conformed to Dodd-Frank and offered Obamacare? According to their supporters, these two Obama initiatives are wonderful. What they can't understand is "why all Americans can't see the light?"
What about the carbon tax? What about alternative energy? What about drilling and energy exploration. What about all of this land owned by the federal government, for that matter?
What about Agenda 21, AKA "Sustainability?" When states begin nullifying federal law, implementing this grand illusion becomes as doable as "putting jelly on the wall with thumb tacks!" So what happened to goal of a "one world government?"
It's still there. Nullification represents a highly profitable detour. In fact, this "detour" could actually be a more effective method of reaching the overall goal.
According to former Idaho Congressmen, Curtis Bowers, the long range globalist objective is to reduce the world's population from seven billion to one billion. This would be accomplished by implementing birth control in developing nations, rationing of healthcare and limiting the world food supplies.
Americans looking for "free stuff" would flock to these more liberal American states. Healthcare, housing, food, transportation and family planning would be available. Then, as supplies became more limited, food stamps would become ration cards, housing would be similar to Stalin era, Soviet apartments, healthcare, including medicine would be rationed or unavailable and children unaffordable.
Without question, nullification would open a barrel of eels! On one hand, the nation would be transformed into the America that our founders envisioned. Conversely, it would create a means of self destruction for part of the country. The surprising factor is that this "true government" of the United States might not have a problem with it.
We always hear the prediction, "they would never let it happen!" But, in this case "they" would make big bucks if it did happen. That is precisely why we cannot dismiss nullification. Over the past 100 years, if there was a loose dollar bill to be had, they were interested.
These globalist banking cartels collectively hold a net worth of roughly 100 trillion dollars. They control artists, polticians and media; literally everything and everyone. The CFR is their front. History has proven repeatedly that "if there is money to be made from anything, whether it be war, crisis or ideology, they're in!
Two questions: "Who" makes up the Council of Foreign Relations? And, "why" would Griffin refer to them as the "true government" of America?
The "who" might be better described as the "who's who." Members include a lot of internationally famous people. Bill and Hillary Clinton, David Rockefeller, Colin Powell, Donald Rumsfeld, Tony Blair, Jimmy Carter, Robert Rubin, Faceed Zhakeria, Angelina Jolie and Madeline Albright are all on the roster. Overall there are about 4500 citizens of the world who hold membership.
The next question amounts to "why" is this significant? Inception of the Federal Reserve is the topic of Griffin's book. It began with a secret meeting at Jekyll Island, Georgia. The goal was to gain control of the world's money supply. The interests represented in that posh resort spawned what later amounted to eight banking cartels. They succeeeded.
For the past 100 years, these "interests" have mastered the art of making money from conflict. Beginning with War World One, they gained huge profits by supplying and outfitting both sides. When they ran out of enemies, they created them. "Monsters" in history such as Hitler and Stalin would never have existed without these cartels.
Which side was "right" and which side was "wrong" was never a question. The only concern was "how much money can be made" from the conflict.
They made money from crisis' as well. The great depression and the 2008 banking meltdown sent huge sums to the cartels.
Which brings us to the looming conflict in today's troubled America. If the policies of the Obama Administration are opposed by so much of the nation, "what if" nullification, the topic of last week's post, came to fruition?
Most say that it wouldn't. Naysayers point out, "secession was decided with the Civil War." But, we're not talking about secession. Nullification originally came up in 1828. There were no banking cartels. There was no Federal Reserve. Few were looking at nullification from the standpoint of "how much money" could be made from it!
This isn't the case today!
It is unlikely that nullification would spawn a second civil war. Americans would not begin shooting at each other over the concept. Fighting for principles and ideologies may sound noble. But today's nation of 315 million is slightly different from the America of 31 million in 1861.
It is highly realistic to assume that a mass population migration would result from nullification. It might start with preference for Obamacare. But Federal laws, not included in the Constitution would be evaluated state-to-state.
Just imagine! Ohio decided to keep Dodd-Frank. Kentucky decided not to. Ohio based banks might respond by moving headquarters to the south side of the the Ohio River. The Buckeye state could keep Dodd-Frank and, as conservatives would predict, "watch banking jobs leave the state." The alternative would be to join Kentucky and nullify it. Right? Proponents of Dodd-Frank would predict the contrary!
Right to Work stands as evidence that conservatives know what they are tolking about. Texas Governor, Rick Perry was accused of "job poaching" by noted conservative, Glenn Beck. But, his appeal to companies seeking a more business friendly landscape has resulted in their moving from heavily unionized states such as California, to Texas.
To implement or nullify Obamacare would have a more far reaching impact! There is no doubt that Americans seeking relief from the law, would flock to those states that nullified it. Conversely, those gaining from Obamacare, would attempt to migrate to states that implemented it.
Relocation is always accompanied by real estate activity. Much is spent on homes, building materials, furniture and, of course, the relocation itself. For banks, this amounts to a need for credit. This translates to money!
But wait! Wouldn't this kind of migration impose hardships on states that conformed to Dodd-Frank and offered Obamacare? According to their supporters, these two Obama initiatives are wonderful. What they can't understand is "why all Americans can't see the light?"
What about the carbon tax? What about alternative energy? What about drilling and energy exploration. What about all of this land owned by the federal government, for that matter?
What about Agenda 21, AKA "Sustainability?" When states begin nullifying federal law, implementing this grand illusion becomes as doable as "putting jelly on the wall with thumb tacks!" So what happened to goal of a "one world government?"
It's still there. Nullification represents a highly profitable detour. In fact, this "detour" could actually be a more effective method of reaching the overall goal.
According to former Idaho Congressmen, Curtis Bowers, the long range globalist objective is to reduce the world's population from seven billion to one billion. This would be accomplished by implementing birth control in developing nations, rationing of healthcare and limiting the world food supplies.
Americans looking for "free stuff" would flock to these more liberal American states. Healthcare, housing, food, transportation and family planning would be available. Then, as supplies became more limited, food stamps would become ration cards, housing would be similar to Stalin era, Soviet apartments, healthcare, including medicine would be rationed or unavailable and children unaffordable.
Without question, nullification would open a barrel of eels! On one hand, the nation would be transformed into the America that our founders envisioned. Conversely, it would create a means of self destruction for part of the country. The surprising factor is that this "true government" of the United States might not have a problem with it.
We always hear the prediction, "they would never let it happen!" But, in this case "they" would make big bucks if it did happen. That is precisely why we cannot dismiss nullification. Over the past 100 years, if there was a loose dollar bill to be had, they were interested.
These globalist banking cartels collectively hold a net worth of roughly 100 trillion dollars. They control artists, polticians and media; literally everything and everyone. The CFR is their front. History has proven repeatedly that "if there is money to be made from anything, whether it be war, crisis or ideology, they're in!
Sunday, October 20, 2013
Nullification- Could it Actually Happen?
There is a segment of America that believes that it could!
Thomas Jefferson believed in it's constitutionality. In a famous 1798 Kentucky case he stated, "Whensoever the general government assumes undelegated powers...a nullification of the act is the rightful remedy."
Thirty years later, the question of nullification arose in South Carolina. The question was, "could a state nullify a protective tariff?" This was 1828. There was a heated debate, harsh words, threat of war and ultimately, a compromise.
The issue of states rights continued to fester and finally exploded with the firing on Fort Sumter in 1861. A bloody war resulted. More Americans were killed in the four years that followed than in all subsequent wars combined!
Many Americans concluded the issue settled, once and for all. Others never did.
Revisionist historians describe the American Civil War as a war to end slavery in America. True, the Emancipation Proclamation was passed as a war measure in 1863. But the real root of the conflict can be traced to states rights and 10th amendment perception. Almost everyone who supported the Confederacy continued to believe that state law was sovereign to federal law. Much of America maintains this standard even today.
Embedded deep in the Southern psyche is the conviction that the South never really lost; that they were merely starved into submission. Children throughout the old Confederacy were told by their parents and grandparents that the "South would rise again." Economic ruin accompanied by a harsh reconstruction did little to vanquish these wistful aspirations.
One hundred years passed. It was now the 1960's and the forced implementation of Brown versus the Board of Education was in motion. The "second reconstruction" was upon America. This time, however, it went north of the Mason-Dixon line.
Everyone was told that that the measure was "in our best interest." Never mind the fact that an overwhelming majority of all races opposed it! In the end, it weakened educational standards in America, while forcing states to spend money that could have been used for education grants, better pay for teachers and better equipment.
Today Brown versus the Board of Education has been overturned. True, some stubborn school districts,dominated by left wing ideologues continue to resist. The fact remains that nullification could have allowed states to come up with their own plan.
Obamacare is another mistake in the pre-natal stages. Like Brown, those who have supported it so vigorously had good intentions. The problem with Obamacare, like Brown is that both initiatives, are at odds with the original America our framers created.
At first glance, Obamacare and Brown versus the Board of Education would bear little if any resemblance. Brown was a 1954 Supreme Court ruling. Obamacare was partisan legislation that made it through the House and Senate,later signed by the President. The connection comes from the idea that the federal government can impose it's will on individual states, forcing their people or governments to spend their money for a project that they may oppose.
These are examples of "the general government assuming undelegated power" that Jefferson referenced when he proposed "Nullification" as the "rightful remedy."
True, the concept of Nullification goes against the grain of modern American thinking. Proponents are typically pigeonholed as "nut cases, racists, right wing fringe elements" or worse! This is the traditional leftist methodology; "to label those in opposition to their way, out-of-step with the times, imbeciles, racists or morons."
This notwithstanding, there are a lot of Americans, including millions north of the Mason-Dixon line, who think that maybe the South got it right! Perhaps Nullification is the best way to deal with a Federal government grown too large and too intrusive!
Could Nullification actually happen? Don't look now, but it IS happening. We are seeing Nullification legislation in a number of states. Chief Justice, John Roberts was scorned by the right when he wrote the majority opinion upholding Obamacare. But the opinion differed from the original legislation in one key way: The federal government cannot withhold Medicaid funding from states as a punitive measure.
Would Barack Obama stand passively aside and allow Texas, Louisiana, Missouri or Idaho to "opt out" of his signature accomplishment. His markedly definant nature coupled with his confrontational demeanor would suggest not. But that may be the wrong question!
This is not 1861. Nor do we live in the age of innocence. We have television. We have cable. We have the internet. Most Americans in Connecticut won't care if Alabama residents choose not to participate in Obamacare! They certainly are not going to take up arms over such a question!
What about Homeland Security or the Military? Somehow, I don't think so. There is something alien about Americans shooting Americans because they preferred not to participate in a program that has so divided the country. More succinctly, those saying "no" to Obamacare would be exercising their constitutional right. Which brings us to the "eye of the storm!"
The United States Military is sworn to uphold and defend the Constitution, not the President. If Nullification is indeed legal under the constitution as Jefferson said that it was, then the Military cannot act.
Homeland Security is another question. Is this agency considered bound under the same laws as the Military?
Then there are the individual state militias. Assuming the regular armed forces stayed out of it, and Homeland Security was ordered by the Administration to "engage," would not they be a factor? They could be. But, a more likely scenario would amount to those in Homeland Security choosing resignation over engagement.
There have even been suggestions that Obama might seek help from the United Nations if it ever came to an outright rebellion. I wouldn't bank on it! For two simple reasons: (1) More than half of the nation opposes Obamacare and (2) There simply isn't the will in America to implement Obamacare on dissenting states by force.
Opponents of Nullification would be quick to remind that "it wouldn't end with Obamacare." Soon the states would be behaving like small countries and that would never do! Or would it? The founders were not imbeciles or morons! This nation was founded as a Republic. We are the United States of America, not the United American States! Our very motto, "E Pluribus Unum" could not have made it more clear:
"From the many, one."
Thomas Jefferson believed in it's constitutionality. In a famous 1798 Kentucky case he stated, "Whensoever the general government assumes undelegated powers...a nullification of the act is the rightful remedy."
Thirty years later, the question of nullification arose in South Carolina. The question was, "could a state nullify a protective tariff?" This was 1828. There was a heated debate, harsh words, threat of war and ultimately, a compromise.
The issue of states rights continued to fester and finally exploded with the firing on Fort Sumter in 1861. A bloody war resulted. More Americans were killed in the four years that followed than in all subsequent wars combined!
Many Americans concluded the issue settled, once and for all. Others never did.
Revisionist historians describe the American Civil War as a war to end slavery in America. True, the Emancipation Proclamation was passed as a war measure in 1863. But the real root of the conflict can be traced to states rights and 10th amendment perception. Almost everyone who supported the Confederacy continued to believe that state law was sovereign to federal law. Much of America maintains this standard even today.
Embedded deep in the Southern psyche is the conviction that the South never really lost; that they were merely starved into submission. Children throughout the old Confederacy were told by their parents and grandparents that the "South would rise again." Economic ruin accompanied by a harsh reconstruction did little to vanquish these wistful aspirations.
One hundred years passed. It was now the 1960's and the forced implementation of Brown versus the Board of Education was in motion. The "second reconstruction" was upon America. This time, however, it went north of the Mason-Dixon line.
Everyone was told that that the measure was "in our best interest." Never mind the fact that an overwhelming majority of all races opposed it! In the end, it weakened educational standards in America, while forcing states to spend money that could have been used for education grants, better pay for teachers and better equipment.
Today Brown versus the Board of Education has been overturned. True, some stubborn school districts,dominated by left wing ideologues continue to resist. The fact remains that nullification could have allowed states to come up with their own plan.
Obamacare is another mistake in the pre-natal stages. Like Brown, those who have supported it so vigorously had good intentions. The problem with Obamacare, like Brown is that both initiatives, are at odds with the original America our framers created.
At first glance, Obamacare and Brown versus the Board of Education would bear little if any resemblance. Brown was a 1954 Supreme Court ruling. Obamacare was partisan legislation that made it through the House and Senate,later signed by the President. The connection comes from the idea that the federal government can impose it's will on individual states, forcing their people or governments to spend their money for a project that they may oppose.
These are examples of "the general government assuming undelegated power" that Jefferson referenced when he proposed "Nullification" as the "rightful remedy."
True, the concept of Nullification goes against the grain of modern American thinking. Proponents are typically pigeonholed as "nut cases, racists, right wing fringe elements" or worse! This is the traditional leftist methodology; "to label those in opposition to their way, out-of-step with the times, imbeciles, racists or morons."
This notwithstanding, there are a lot of Americans, including millions north of the Mason-Dixon line, who think that maybe the South got it right! Perhaps Nullification is the best way to deal with a Federal government grown too large and too intrusive!
Could Nullification actually happen? Don't look now, but it IS happening. We are seeing Nullification legislation in a number of states. Chief Justice, John Roberts was scorned by the right when he wrote the majority opinion upholding Obamacare. But the opinion differed from the original legislation in one key way: The federal government cannot withhold Medicaid funding from states as a punitive measure.
Would Barack Obama stand passively aside and allow Texas, Louisiana, Missouri or Idaho to "opt out" of his signature accomplishment. His markedly definant nature coupled with his confrontational demeanor would suggest not. But that may be the wrong question!
This is not 1861. Nor do we live in the age of innocence. We have television. We have cable. We have the internet. Most Americans in Connecticut won't care if Alabama residents choose not to participate in Obamacare! They certainly are not going to take up arms over such a question!
What about Homeland Security or the Military? Somehow, I don't think so. There is something alien about Americans shooting Americans because they preferred not to participate in a program that has so divided the country. More succinctly, those saying "no" to Obamacare would be exercising their constitutional right. Which brings us to the "eye of the storm!"
The United States Military is sworn to uphold and defend the Constitution, not the President. If Nullification is indeed legal under the constitution as Jefferson said that it was, then the Military cannot act.
Homeland Security is another question. Is this agency considered bound under the same laws as the Military?
Then there are the individual state militias. Assuming the regular armed forces stayed out of it, and Homeland Security was ordered by the Administration to "engage," would not they be a factor? They could be. But, a more likely scenario would amount to those in Homeland Security choosing resignation over engagement.
There have even been suggestions that Obama might seek help from the United Nations if it ever came to an outright rebellion. I wouldn't bank on it! For two simple reasons: (1) More than half of the nation opposes Obamacare and (2) There simply isn't the will in America to implement Obamacare on dissenting states by force.
Opponents of Nullification would be quick to remind that "it wouldn't end with Obamacare." Soon the states would be behaving like small countries and that would never do! Or would it? The founders were not imbeciles or morons! This nation was founded as a Republic. We are the United States of America, not the United American States! Our very motto, "E Pluribus Unum" could not have made it more clear:
"From the many, one."
Saturday, September 21, 2013
Obama Agenda, Jefferson Principles Diabolically Opposed
Not that this is a huge surprise!
The healthcare debate moves to the next round. It is improbable that Congress will be successful in slowing the train, even though a growing number of Americans are hoping that they might. In this great time of uneasiness, some solace may be found in turning to the wisdom of our founding fathers.
Let's pretend that Thomas Jefferson is currently amoung us. True, Nancy Pelosi wouldn't see the relevance. But a lot of distraught Independents including Millennials would. Jefferson's take on the "Affordable Health Care Act" would be as follows:
"To propel a man to subsidize with his taxes the propagation of ideas which he disbelieves and abhors is sinful and tyrannical."
No doubt, Pelosi, Chris Mathews, Rachael Maddow and friends would say, "Get over it Tom!"
However, there is much wisdom in Jefferson's statement. For starters, it is never popular to tax unwilling people. Pelosi and friends would counter in reminding all that the bill did pass and was signed into law in 2010. Never mind that the reconciliation process was needed for final Senate passage. It doesn't matter that the Supreme Court later determined it to be a "tax." Who cares if upwards of 70% of the country is now against immediate implementation!
Some of the strongest advocates of Obamacare are Americans paying little or no taxes. Jefferson had a position on this:
"The Democracy will cease to exist when you take away from those willing to work and give to those who would not."
Opponents are vocal in the fact that this legislation grows the government to historic levels. In fact, Obamacare will account for "one-sixth" of the overall economy. Much was buried in the 2700 page proposal. In the end, it became understood that the "Affordable Health Care Act," increased the size and scope of government in a manner that amounted to unprecedented intrusion into the lives of Americans. Jefferson's probable opinion on A.F.H.C.?
"My reading of history convinces me that most bad government results from too much government." He added, "I predict future happiness for Americans if they can prevent the government from wasting the labors of the people under the pretense of taking care of them."
Naturally Barack Obama anticipated resistance. His solution was to increase the size of the Internal Revenue Service. This accomplished, he could then instruct them to forcefully collect from those unwilling to succumb. Many if not most Americans fear the I.R.S.. The thought of the President using this unpopular branch of government to enforce a tax opposed by the majority of Americans is seen as strangely un-American. Maybe, this is because it it just that: Un-American.
To this, Jefferson's response would have been, "when people fear government, you have tyranny. When government fears the people, you have liberty."
The question becomes, "how much will the American people take?" The administration fears, "not much more." As a result, efforts are in motion to disarm America. Jefferson was very clear on this notion:
"No free man shall ever be debarred the use of arms." His rationale was specific: "The strongest reason for the people to retain the right to keep and bear arms is, at a last resort, to protect themselves from tyranny in government."
A lot of alarmed Americans have seen the signs and are secretly beginning preparation for the long awaited house-to-house rat war survivalists have predicted for decades. While both liberals and moderates may scoff the thought, we must remember that there are roughly 270 million firearms accounted for in America. It is believed that many more may be unaccounted for. They are in the hands of an estimated 30% of the population.
Such apocalyptic references are greeted with disdain, even spite by the milk toast mainstream. But Jefferson may have seen it differently. He concluded, "the tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants."
In other words, "you might want to dust off your exit visas, Nancy Pelosi!"
The question that arises is "how was Barack Obama re-elected" if his policies are so unpopular and his methodology so suspect? Perhaps is because they were neither unpopular or suspect to certain parts of the country.
The great megapolis of the Northeast has become a bastion of American liberal ideology. Much relates to the spoils system and the amount of American tax dollars that have been funneled their way. The counter argument amounts to "how many tax dollars" in proportion are sent to Washington by Americans living in these states. Jefferson's observation was quite profound:
"When we get piled upon one another in large cities, as in Europe, we shall become as corrupt as Europe."
Ironically, the nation's greatest financial interests reside in the Northeast. G. Edward Griffin's "The Creature from Jekyll Island" recounts the growth of a banking cartel, outside the framework of the U.S. Government that has systematically stolen trillions from the American people. It began in 1910. 108 years earlier, Thomas Jefferson issued a warning that amounted to prophecy:
"I believe that banking institutions are more dangerous to our liberties than standing armies. If the American people ever allow private banks to control the issue of their currency,first by inflation, then by deflation, the banks and corporations that will grow up around the banks will deprive the people of all property- until their children wake up homeless on the continent that their fathers conquered."
The end result has been a multi-trillion dollar deficit that continues to grow with each passing hour. Politicians have talked about solutions. But the end result has been to "kick the proverbial can" down the road. In other words, let future generations deal with the problem. Jefferson's position was very clear on this practice:
"It is incumbent on every generation to pay its own debts as it goes.
A principle which acted on would save one-half the wars of the world."
Including the war that could ultimately engulf America.
Few dare think of this outcome. But don't rule it out. Here's why.
We have a tiny group of international financiers who have gained control of most of the planet's wealth. The have gained advantage in this country largely with the help of non-tax paying Americans. The are literally banking on the rest of America doing nothing.
What about the 30% who control the firearms? Wouldn't the military be more than a match for them? Depends. The military is sworn to defend the Constitution. If it is perceived that the Constitution has been compromised, who knows!
Of course, there would be a much better way. Could not these cartels merely give back what was stolen?
There are currently eight banking cartels headquartered in the Northeast and Europe. Their cumulative net worth exceeds 100 trillion dollars. Nobody knows for certain how they amassed this kind of wealth.
Returning that which was stolen would probably be Jefferson's solution. The common man was always on his radar. History reflects his on going argument with Alexander Hamilton regarding "if" the common man should be trusted with governing latitude.
Perhaps these emerging Millennials may make the final determination. They will be expected to shoulder the burden of an aging population of Social Security recipients. Not to mention a massive debt! Many are shackled by currently unforgivable student loan debt. What happens if they say "nyet" to perpetual thrawl designation?
I sincerely believe that the answer is "not if, but when!" The question may be "how?"
Thomas Jefferson was one of our greatest Presidents. In rediscovering his memoirs, it is easy to conclude that the country is on the wrong track. As times become increasingly grim, reformers will be aided by two factors: (a) A large number of the older Americans who would discourage reform will die out and (b) the left will go too far, insuring a massive counterstroke by the right.
Both are happening as we speak!
Griffin described our currency as "fiat money." As he explained, "we have roughly one-half trillion in gold at Fort Knox. Yet our debt is 17 trillion?" His book described in great detail how our "money" was actually nothing but credit; a promise to be paid. If someone stops paying, the entire house of cards will fall!
The good news is, America has massive wealth under the ground and on top of it. Not to mention the resources and ingenuity of our people. True, the latter has been downplayed in recent times by the Council of Foreign Relations and other globalist entities. But it does remain, a potent force ready to reassume control.
Two things will be necessary. In Thomas Jefferson, we have one of them: a spiritual founder. His insights reflect the wisdom necessary to correct those things that went wrong.
What remains is the need for a contemporary leader. Is there someone out there who can re-introduce America to these Jeffersonian principles? More importantly, do we have a statesman who can restructure the government in a manner that it conforms to them?
The whole world is watching. And waiting.
The healthcare debate moves to the next round. It is improbable that Congress will be successful in slowing the train, even though a growing number of Americans are hoping that they might. In this great time of uneasiness, some solace may be found in turning to the wisdom of our founding fathers.
Let's pretend that Thomas Jefferson is currently amoung us. True, Nancy Pelosi wouldn't see the relevance. But a lot of distraught Independents including Millennials would. Jefferson's take on the "Affordable Health Care Act" would be as follows:
"To propel a man to subsidize with his taxes the propagation of ideas which he disbelieves and abhors is sinful and tyrannical."
No doubt, Pelosi, Chris Mathews, Rachael Maddow and friends would say, "Get over it Tom!"
However, there is much wisdom in Jefferson's statement. For starters, it is never popular to tax unwilling people. Pelosi and friends would counter in reminding all that the bill did pass and was signed into law in 2010. Never mind that the reconciliation process was needed for final Senate passage. It doesn't matter that the Supreme Court later determined it to be a "tax." Who cares if upwards of 70% of the country is now against immediate implementation!
Some of the strongest advocates of Obamacare are Americans paying little or no taxes. Jefferson had a position on this:
"The Democracy will cease to exist when you take away from those willing to work and give to those who would not."
Opponents are vocal in the fact that this legislation grows the government to historic levels. In fact, Obamacare will account for "one-sixth" of the overall economy. Much was buried in the 2700 page proposal. In the end, it became understood that the "Affordable Health Care Act," increased the size and scope of government in a manner that amounted to unprecedented intrusion into the lives of Americans. Jefferson's probable opinion on A.F.H.C.?
"My reading of history convinces me that most bad government results from too much government." He added, "I predict future happiness for Americans if they can prevent the government from wasting the labors of the people under the pretense of taking care of them."
Naturally Barack Obama anticipated resistance. His solution was to increase the size of the Internal Revenue Service. This accomplished, he could then instruct them to forcefully collect from those unwilling to succumb. Many if not most Americans fear the I.R.S.. The thought of the President using this unpopular branch of government to enforce a tax opposed by the majority of Americans is seen as strangely un-American. Maybe, this is because it it just that: Un-American.
To this, Jefferson's response would have been, "when people fear government, you have tyranny. When government fears the people, you have liberty."
The question becomes, "how much will the American people take?" The administration fears, "not much more." As a result, efforts are in motion to disarm America. Jefferson was very clear on this notion:
"No free man shall ever be debarred the use of arms." His rationale was specific: "The strongest reason for the people to retain the right to keep and bear arms is, at a last resort, to protect themselves from tyranny in government."
A lot of alarmed Americans have seen the signs and are secretly beginning preparation for the long awaited house-to-house rat war survivalists have predicted for decades. While both liberals and moderates may scoff the thought, we must remember that there are roughly 270 million firearms accounted for in America. It is believed that many more may be unaccounted for. They are in the hands of an estimated 30% of the population.
Such apocalyptic references are greeted with disdain, even spite by the milk toast mainstream. But Jefferson may have seen it differently. He concluded, "the tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants."
In other words, "you might want to dust off your exit visas, Nancy Pelosi!"
The question that arises is "how was Barack Obama re-elected" if his policies are so unpopular and his methodology so suspect? Perhaps is because they were neither unpopular or suspect to certain parts of the country.
The great megapolis of the Northeast has become a bastion of American liberal ideology. Much relates to the spoils system and the amount of American tax dollars that have been funneled their way. The counter argument amounts to "how many tax dollars" in proportion are sent to Washington by Americans living in these states. Jefferson's observation was quite profound:
"When we get piled upon one another in large cities, as in Europe, we shall become as corrupt as Europe."
Ironically, the nation's greatest financial interests reside in the Northeast. G. Edward Griffin's "The Creature from Jekyll Island" recounts the growth of a banking cartel, outside the framework of the U.S. Government that has systematically stolen trillions from the American people. It began in 1910. 108 years earlier, Thomas Jefferson issued a warning that amounted to prophecy:
"I believe that banking institutions are more dangerous to our liberties than standing armies. If the American people ever allow private banks to control the issue of their currency,first by inflation, then by deflation, the banks and corporations that will grow up around the banks will deprive the people of all property- until their children wake up homeless on the continent that their fathers conquered."
The end result has been a multi-trillion dollar deficit that continues to grow with each passing hour. Politicians have talked about solutions. But the end result has been to "kick the proverbial can" down the road. In other words, let future generations deal with the problem. Jefferson's position was very clear on this practice:
"It is incumbent on every generation to pay its own debts as it goes.
A principle which acted on would save one-half the wars of the world."
Including the war that could ultimately engulf America.
Few dare think of this outcome. But don't rule it out. Here's why.
We have a tiny group of international financiers who have gained control of most of the planet's wealth. The have gained advantage in this country largely with the help of non-tax paying Americans. The are literally banking on the rest of America doing nothing.
What about the 30% who control the firearms? Wouldn't the military be more than a match for them? Depends. The military is sworn to defend the Constitution. If it is perceived that the Constitution has been compromised, who knows!
Of course, there would be a much better way. Could not these cartels merely give back what was stolen?
There are currently eight banking cartels headquartered in the Northeast and Europe. Their cumulative net worth exceeds 100 trillion dollars. Nobody knows for certain how they amassed this kind of wealth.
Returning that which was stolen would probably be Jefferson's solution. The common man was always on his radar. History reflects his on going argument with Alexander Hamilton regarding "if" the common man should be trusted with governing latitude.
Perhaps these emerging Millennials may make the final determination. They will be expected to shoulder the burden of an aging population of Social Security recipients. Not to mention a massive debt! Many are shackled by currently unforgivable student loan debt. What happens if they say "nyet" to perpetual thrawl designation?
I sincerely believe that the answer is "not if, but when!" The question may be "how?"
Thomas Jefferson was one of our greatest Presidents. In rediscovering his memoirs, it is easy to conclude that the country is on the wrong track. As times become increasingly grim, reformers will be aided by two factors: (a) A large number of the older Americans who would discourage reform will die out and (b) the left will go too far, insuring a massive counterstroke by the right.
Both are happening as we speak!
Griffin described our currency as "fiat money." As he explained, "we have roughly one-half trillion in gold at Fort Knox. Yet our debt is 17 trillion?" His book described in great detail how our "money" was actually nothing but credit; a promise to be paid. If someone stops paying, the entire house of cards will fall!
The good news is, America has massive wealth under the ground and on top of it. Not to mention the resources and ingenuity of our people. True, the latter has been downplayed in recent times by the Council of Foreign Relations and other globalist entities. But it does remain, a potent force ready to reassume control.
Two things will be necessary. In Thomas Jefferson, we have one of them: a spiritual founder. His insights reflect the wisdom necessary to correct those things that went wrong.
What remains is the need for a contemporary leader. Is there someone out there who can re-introduce America to these Jeffersonian principles? More importantly, do we have a statesman who can restructure the government in a manner that it conforms to them?
The whole world is watching. And waiting.
Sunday, September 1, 2013
Colorado/Washington Pot Laws Prelude for Coming Debate
Early indications suggest that the Department of Justice will take a laissez faire approach to Colorado and Washington's recent Marijuana law changes. The somewhat tentitive wording suggests that it may represent temporary constituent appeasement.
Both Colorado and Washington broke for Barack Obama in both 2008 and 2012. Colorado was considered a swing state. Politically, a different verdict would have sent mixed signals. Some recall Alaska in 1980.
At that time, the "Last Frontier" was the only state allowing both recreational use and private cultivation. When the state refused to criminalize the process, they were threatened with funding cuts. Specifically, "make it illegal or lose your highway money." Alaska didn't buck Uncle Sam!
That was then. But this is a different day. Alaska and Oregon now look to be the next states to legalize. From there, who knows? There are two arguments in play. One is moral. The other is ideological.
Some polls indicate that the majority of America favors legalization. But where are these Americans? Could the percentage be different, state-to-state?
Whether legalization is favored or not, the debate offers the perfect opportunity to distinguish conservatives. In short, a true Constitutionalist may be vehemently opposed to legalization. At the same time, he must admit that, in accordance with the 10th amendment, it is the individual state's call! New Conservatives(Neo-Cons) would never bring the 10th amendment into the debate.
The Marijuana question offers a golden opportunity to define conservatism. On one side is the issue itself. On the other side is the principle of states' rights. To many conservatives, "strict construction" is a thorny subject. We have seen it emerge with other issues. Governor Rick Perry and Senator Rick Santorum's reaction to the New York Gay rights legislation heads the list.
Perry would favor a constitutional amendment that would define marriage as a union between a man and a woman. But, as he proffered, "New York passed a law allowing it and under the 10th amendment, they have that right." Santorum favored other measures short of the amendment process that would have stymied the action.
Does this make Senator Santorum a "Neo-Con?" Probably. He openly favors intervention from Washington, D.C., on an action that is truly within the state's jurisdiction. This is no different than the ultimatum given to Alaska in 1980 by the federal government. An action thwarting Gay marrage or Marijuana legalization would fall under the the definition of "a large, Washington, D.C. based government," their purpose being "to advance and facilite conserative principles."
The Constitutionalist counter is "good, bad, or indifferent, both are state issues," as defined by the constitution. Thomas Jefferson would have thought so!
"E Pluribus Unum" translated is "from the many, one." As an Obama supporter concluded, "it makes it sound like we are a collection of tiny countries." This can't be right! Can it?
Actually, it is! This is what our founders had in mind when they put the nation together. True, there are members on both sides of the aisle who scoff at such a notion. In some cases, utter contempt is the standard.
What is dangerous about this traditional reasoning is that it both contradicts the mantra of "big government knows best," and it is non-partisan. Democrats, Republicans and Independents can find common ground under the 10th amendment's conclusion that "birds of a feather should flock together."
Not convinced? Remember that infamous Tampa, Tea Party sponsored, Republican debate, September 2012? Governor Perry defended a Texas legislative ruling that waived out-of-state tuition for children of illegal aliens. Santorum was joined by Michelle Bachmann and Mitt Romney in declaring that Texas' action was the incorrect one. Perry reminded the house that, no matter what they thought in Massachusetts, Minnesota or Pennsylvania, it was Texas' business. And, according to the Constitution, it is!
Conservative champion, Glenn Beck has accused Perry of "job poaching." But the Governor retorts, that "each state is meant to be a laboratory." In short, healthly, self sufficient states get better because they are in competition with each other. No longer is the name of the game, "how much can we procure from the D.C coffers?"
Republicans, even more so than Democrats, are threatened by this posture! It amounts to "downsizing and de-emphasizing" Washington. For D.C. influence peddlers, it would represent a mortal wound. Those "big government conservatives," would fear being left high and dry.
Today, the GOP looks to be facing a choice: "redefine their standard of conservatism or go the way of the Whigs!" Both country and party spoke definitively and decisively in 2008 and 2012. Confirmed was that the "Neo-Con" vision was more in step with that of the Democrats.
In essence, the issue isn't as much about Marijuana as it is, "do the states have the right" to make the call? From our founders' point of view, they do!
So there it is; the ultimate threat to our Washington, D.C. establishment. It is relatively easy to understand why any political candidate, especially a candidate for President of the United States, spouting 10th amendment truisms, is considered a threat.
Therefore, if Rick Perry decides to run for President in 2016, he may use that same argument used against Kaye Baily Hutchinson in the 2010 Texas Governors race. For those who remember, Hutchinson went down a list of "things that we(in Washington, D.C.) have done for you."
Perry's response: "Those things would be(and should be)better handled from Austin."
Denver and Olympia would agree.
Both Colorado and Washington broke for Barack Obama in both 2008 and 2012. Colorado was considered a swing state. Politically, a different verdict would have sent mixed signals. Some recall Alaska in 1980.
At that time, the "Last Frontier" was the only state allowing both recreational use and private cultivation. When the state refused to criminalize the process, they were threatened with funding cuts. Specifically, "make it illegal or lose your highway money." Alaska didn't buck Uncle Sam!
That was then. But this is a different day. Alaska and Oregon now look to be the next states to legalize. From there, who knows? There are two arguments in play. One is moral. The other is ideological.
Some polls indicate that the majority of America favors legalization. But where are these Americans? Could the percentage be different, state-to-state?
Whether legalization is favored or not, the debate offers the perfect opportunity to distinguish conservatives. In short, a true Constitutionalist may be vehemently opposed to legalization. At the same time, he must admit that, in accordance with the 10th amendment, it is the individual state's call! New Conservatives(Neo-Cons) would never bring the 10th amendment into the debate.
The Marijuana question offers a golden opportunity to define conservatism. On one side is the issue itself. On the other side is the principle of states' rights. To many conservatives, "strict construction" is a thorny subject. We have seen it emerge with other issues. Governor Rick Perry and Senator Rick Santorum's reaction to the New York Gay rights legislation heads the list.
Perry would favor a constitutional amendment that would define marriage as a union between a man and a woman. But, as he proffered, "New York passed a law allowing it and under the 10th amendment, they have that right." Santorum favored other measures short of the amendment process that would have stymied the action.
Does this make Senator Santorum a "Neo-Con?" Probably. He openly favors intervention from Washington, D.C., on an action that is truly within the state's jurisdiction. This is no different than the ultimatum given to Alaska in 1980 by the federal government. An action thwarting Gay marrage or Marijuana legalization would fall under the the definition of "a large, Washington, D.C. based government," their purpose being "to advance and facilite conserative principles."
The Constitutionalist counter is "good, bad, or indifferent, both are state issues," as defined by the constitution. Thomas Jefferson would have thought so!
"E Pluribus Unum" translated is "from the many, one." As an Obama supporter concluded, "it makes it sound like we are a collection of tiny countries." This can't be right! Can it?
Actually, it is! This is what our founders had in mind when they put the nation together. True, there are members on both sides of the aisle who scoff at such a notion. In some cases, utter contempt is the standard.
What is dangerous about this traditional reasoning is that it both contradicts the mantra of "big government knows best," and it is non-partisan. Democrats, Republicans and Independents can find common ground under the 10th amendment's conclusion that "birds of a feather should flock together."
Not convinced? Remember that infamous Tampa, Tea Party sponsored, Republican debate, September 2012? Governor Perry defended a Texas legislative ruling that waived out-of-state tuition for children of illegal aliens. Santorum was joined by Michelle Bachmann and Mitt Romney in declaring that Texas' action was the incorrect one. Perry reminded the house that, no matter what they thought in Massachusetts, Minnesota or Pennsylvania, it was Texas' business. And, according to the Constitution, it is!
Conservative champion, Glenn Beck has accused Perry of "job poaching." But the Governor retorts, that "each state is meant to be a laboratory." In short, healthly, self sufficient states get better because they are in competition with each other. No longer is the name of the game, "how much can we procure from the D.C coffers?"
Republicans, even more so than Democrats, are threatened by this posture! It amounts to "downsizing and de-emphasizing" Washington. For D.C. influence peddlers, it would represent a mortal wound. Those "big government conservatives," would fear being left high and dry.
Today, the GOP looks to be facing a choice: "redefine their standard of conservatism or go the way of the Whigs!" Both country and party spoke definitively and decisively in 2008 and 2012. Confirmed was that the "Neo-Con" vision was more in step with that of the Democrats.
In essence, the issue isn't as much about Marijuana as it is, "do the states have the right" to make the call? From our founders' point of view, they do!
So there it is; the ultimate threat to our Washington, D.C. establishment. It is relatively easy to understand why any political candidate, especially a candidate for President of the United States, spouting 10th amendment truisms, is considered a threat.
Therefore, if Rick Perry decides to run for President in 2016, he may use that same argument used against Kaye Baily Hutchinson in the 2010 Texas Governors race. For those who remember, Hutchinson went down a list of "things that we(in Washington, D.C.) have done for you."
Perry's response: "Those things would be(and should be)better handled from Austin."
Denver and Olympia would agree.
Sunday, August 25, 2013
Republicans Hanging on to Dated Legacy
If only Jeb Bush would run for President!
With mid terms approaching, Republicans can only dream of those six Senate seats. There are several combinations that would work. But Arkansas, Louisiana, North Carolina, Montana, West Virginia and Alaska look SO winnable. All six states broke for Mitt Romney in 2012. In most cases, the result wasn't close.
Democrats see 2014 as the year where the Repbublicans' last chance(hopefully) comes up short. And it might. If it does, it might be a long time before Republicans are this close to controlling both houses. However, it's no certainty that Dems can split the remainder of the board. 51-47 could easily become 53-45.
With Obamacare now accurately positioned as a "tax," many former advocates may be rethinking the entire legislation. Without question, if Republicans retake the Senate, while holding the House, a floor vote will happen. Then those Democrats still holding to their convictions will be forced to defend their vote for a middle class tax increase.
It is fortunate for the Republican establishment that this "diversion" will take forefront. The party has never been closer to a split. This past election and the all out effort to "cram Mitt Romney down the throats" of the base, will not be forgiven or forgotten. The bases problem amounts to identifying friend and foe.
Imagine a triangle. On one corner, you have the traditional "Dewey Rockefeller Republicans." Sean Hannity accurately identifed John McCain as a leader of this faction. He is joined by Olympia Snowe, Susan Collins, Mike Castle, Lincoln Chaffee(now an independent), Lowell Weicker, Dede Scazafava, William Weld and what remains of those originally labeled "liberal Republicans." Today, they are commonly referred to as R.I.N.O.s(Republicans in name only).
Actually R.I.N.O.s of today were pretty much the norm fifty years ago. They didn't change their positions. The party gradually drifted away from them. I can recall Paul Tsongas, a Democrat who referred to himself as a "pro-business liberal." He was considered by most Democrats as "more in tune with Republican" standards. And, from a pure fiscal point of view, he was.
The second end of the triangle is reserved for the "New Conservatives." Many might have been in the "Dewey Rockefeller" camp in 1958.(George H.W. Bush is one who comes to mind) Others came from (not surprisingly) Democrat roots. During the 1950's, many Democrats who took exception to federal intervention on such items as the court ordered busing, school prayer and abortion. They were not to the point where they wanted to discard the overall plan. But, they sought to draw a line. Their support for a strong military gained them much coveted status as "conservatives."
Were they actually conservatives? In their eyes, they were. However, their ideas of conservatism were not that far removed from the Dewey Rockefellers. Nor, did it conflict with the New Deal concept of the "central government managing" the economy. Kentucky Senator, Rand Paul described these new conservatives as "Neo-Cons." According to Paul, they advocate a "large, Washington D.C. based central government to advance and facilitate conservative principles."
The "dogmatics" occupy the triangle's apex. These Republicans seek a "full repeal of Roe versus Wade," advocate a constitutional amendment that would "define marriage as a union between a man and a woman," and to "deport all residents holding no legal status."
"Neo Cons" have successfully connected with this third group by taking a "pro life" stance on abortion. They have also indicated their "anti-gay marriage" preference. In doing so, they have strategically out manuevered the "Dewey
Rockefellers," effectively taking control of the party.
The question is "what percentage" of the true Republican base is represented by all three groups collectively? Surprisingly, it may be less than half. Some say it may be less than one-fourth, more like 20%! If that's the case, who actually composes the base?
During the past 30 years an interesting phenomenon has unfolded. The South, traditionally referred to as the "solid south" switched from reliably Democrat to solid Republican. It actually began in 1964 and continued into the seventies. Jimmy Carter temporarily slowed the defection in 1976. But the reprieve proved to be "fools gold." Carter may have been a Southerner. But his ideology was more consistent with his running mate, Walter Mondale. Southerners eventually figured this out and dumped him in 1980.
Ronald Reagan won the hearts and minds of Southerners with his promise to "reduce the size and cost of government." Out of nowhere emerged a new standard. True, the former California governor lacked the typical Republican pedigree. But his programs were not at odds with party pursuits. A standard had been established. And with it an alternative to the idea of a consolidation of power in Washington, D.C..
So there is lies! True, Appomattox is 148 years in the rear view mirror. But the spirit of states rights(Reagan called it federalism)lives. As a result, a "constititionalist" finds open and accepting ears to their argument that the "founders got it right."
Somewhere between the three corners of the triangle the "meat" of the party has emerged. They are made up of "Reagan Democrats," those who switched parties in the eighties, "10thers," who seek a literal interpretation of the 10th amendment, fiscal conservatives and Libertarians. Because they are a "hodge podge" of interests and viewpoints, they have been slow to assume their rightful place as "party chiefs and captains." However, one leader, one election could change that.
Democrats actually fear this result more than the Republican Establishment. These Republicans do not represent the Harvard or Yale crowd. In fact, most aren't wealthy. This is middle class America manifested. There is much common ground with traditional Democrats, namely JFK Dems. There are likewise countless commonalities with voters who refer to themselves as "Independents." It points to a "Ronald Reagan type" general election result.
Neo-Cons are hoping that Jeb Bush will ultimately throw his hat into the ring. While general election victory will not be assured, a lightly contested primary will be. The GOP status quot will continue. More conservative judicial appointments would be expected. Some sort of a national healthcare compromise would be reached. The military would be maintained. Big business would breathe a little easier.
Democrats know that Bush's nomination will make for a difficult, yet winnable general election. Florida will likely be off the board. John Kasich's selection as running mate could create an "electoral math problem." A Mexican first lady would be something new. But the message and the Republican image would remain largely intact.
The problem stems from "what if Jeb elects not to run?" All indications thus far point in that direction. If he ultimately decides to stay out, the race will be wide open like never before. And, that could ultimately result in a take over by the base.
It took a few years to figure it out. But, smarter minds have prevailed. The present Republican leadership is feeble at best. Money can always be found. And a new direction, complete with dynamic new leadership, stressing traditional American principles can lead to a new American experiment.
With mid terms approaching, Republicans can only dream of those six Senate seats. There are several combinations that would work. But Arkansas, Louisiana, North Carolina, Montana, West Virginia and Alaska look SO winnable. All six states broke for Mitt Romney in 2012. In most cases, the result wasn't close.
Democrats see 2014 as the year where the Repbublicans' last chance(hopefully) comes up short. And it might. If it does, it might be a long time before Republicans are this close to controlling both houses. However, it's no certainty that Dems can split the remainder of the board. 51-47 could easily become 53-45.
With Obamacare now accurately positioned as a "tax," many former advocates may be rethinking the entire legislation. Without question, if Republicans retake the Senate, while holding the House, a floor vote will happen. Then those Democrats still holding to their convictions will be forced to defend their vote for a middle class tax increase.
It is fortunate for the Republican establishment that this "diversion" will take forefront. The party has never been closer to a split. This past election and the all out effort to "cram Mitt Romney down the throats" of the base, will not be forgiven or forgotten. The bases problem amounts to identifying friend and foe.
Imagine a triangle. On one corner, you have the traditional "Dewey Rockefeller Republicans." Sean Hannity accurately identifed John McCain as a leader of this faction. He is joined by Olympia Snowe, Susan Collins, Mike Castle, Lincoln Chaffee(now an independent), Lowell Weicker, Dede Scazafava, William Weld and what remains of those originally labeled "liberal Republicans." Today, they are commonly referred to as R.I.N.O.s(Republicans in name only).
Actually R.I.N.O.s of today were pretty much the norm fifty years ago. They didn't change their positions. The party gradually drifted away from them. I can recall Paul Tsongas, a Democrat who referred to himself as a "pro-business liberal." He was considered by most Democrats as "more in tune with Republican" standards. And, from a pure fiscal point of view, he was.
The second end of the triangle is reserved for the "New Conservatives." Many might have been in the "Dewey Rockefeller" camp in 1958.(George H.W. Bush is one who comes to mind) Others came from (not surprisingly) Democrat roots. During the 1950's, many Democrats who took exception to federal intervention on such items as the court ordered busing, school prayer and abortion. They were not to the point where they wanted to discard the overall plan. But, they sought to draw a line. Their support for a strong military gained them much coveted status as "conservatives."
Were they actually conservatives? In their eyes, they were. However, their ideas of conservatism were not that far removed from the Dewey Rockefellers. Nor, did it conflict with the New Deal concept of the "central government managing" the economy. Kentucky Senator, Rand Paul described these new conservatives as "Neo-Cons." According to Paul, they advocate a "large, Washington D.C. based central government to advance and facilitate conservative principles."
The "dogmatics" occupy the triangle's apex. These Republicans seek a "full repeal of Roe versus Wade," advocate a constitutional amendment that would "define marriage as a union between a man and a woman," and to "deport all residents holding no legal status."
"Neo Cons" have successfully connected with this third group by taking a "pro life" stance on abortion. They have also indicated their "anti-gay marriage" preference. In doing so, they have strategically out manuevered the "Dewey
Rockefellers," effectively taking control of the party.
The question is "what percentage" of the true Republican base is represented by all three groups collectively? Surprisingly, it may be less than half. Some say it may be less than one-fourth, more like 20%! If that's the case, who actually composes the base?
During the past 30 years an interesting phenomenon has unfolded. The South, traditionally referred to as the "solid south" switched from reliably Democrat to solid Republican. It actually began in 1964 and continued into the seventies. Jimmy Carter temporarily slowed the defection in 1976. But the reprieve proved to be "fools gold." Carter may have been a Southerner. But his ideology was more consistent with his running mate, Walter Mondale. Southerners eventually figured this out and dumped him in 1980.
Ronald Reagan won the hearts and minds of Southerners with his promise to "reduce the size and cost of government." Out of nowhere emerged a new standard. True, the former California governor lacked the typical Republican pedigree. But his programs were not at odds with party pursuits. A standard had been established. And with it an alternative to the idea of a consolidation of power in Washington, D.C..
So there is lies! True, Appomattox is 148 years in the rear view mirror. But the spirit of states rights(Reagan called it federalism)lives. As a result, a "constititionalist" finds open and accepting ears to their argument that the "founders got it right."
Somewhere between the three corners of the triangle the "meat" of the party has emerged. They are made up of "Reagan Democrats," those who switched parties in the eighties, "10thers," who seek a literal interpretation of the 10th amendment, fiscal conservatives and Libertarians. Because they are a "hodge podge" of interests and viewpoints, they have been slow to assume their rightful place as "party chiefs and captains." However, one leader, one election could change that.
Democrats actually fear this result more than the Republican Establishment. These Republicans do not represent the Harvard or Yale crowd. In fact, most aren't wealthy. This is middle class America manifested. There is much common ground with traditional Democrats, namely JFK Dems. There are likewise countless commonalities with voters who refer to themselves as "Independents." It points to a "Ronald Reagan type" general election result.
Neo-Cons are hoping that Jeb Bush will ultimately throw his hat into the ring. While general election victory will not be assured, a lightly contested primary will be. The GOP status quot will continue. More conservative judicial appointments would be expected. Some sort of a national healthcare compromise would be reached. The military would be maintained. Big business would breathe a little easier.
Democrats know that Bush's nomination will make for a difficult, yet winnable general election. Florida will likely be off the board. John Kasich's selection as running mate could create an "electoral math problem." A Mexican first lady would be something new. But the message and the Republican image would remain largely intact.
The problem stems from "what if Jeb elects not to run?" All indications thus far point in that direction. If he ultimately decides to stay out, the race will be wide open like never before. And, that could ultimately result in a take over by the base.
It took a few years to figure it out. But, smarter minds have prevailed. The present Republican leadership is feeble at best. Money can always be found. And a new direction, complete with dynamic new leadership, stressing traditional American principles can lead to a new American experiment.
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