Category Archives: POLITICS

AMERICA FIRST

by in China., Democratic Party, ELECTIONS, Iran, North Korea, POLITICS, republican Party, Trump, Uncategorized | Leave a comment

 

AMERICA FIRST TOP

The administration use of “America First “is an advance phraseology. It does not mean America only. For those who felt that the Trump administration would only focus on the USA, you are incorrect. In this Geo-Political world, America is not the only thing. The President must develop and implement Domestic and International policies. There is no abandonment of “America First “and it seems to me that the Domestic policy of Jobs and Infrastructure improvement is well on the way. However, now is the time to develop a clear International policy.

Russia, Syria, North Korea, Iran, and China will dictate the development of the base of an International policy. These are the cards on the table but remember there are 52 cards in the deck. The administration was dealt these cards and they have to play the game. Russia, Syria, North Korea, Iran, and China were the cards left on the table by the previous administration. The previous administration had no clue how to play this Geo-Political high stake poker. So, they dove their tails between hind legs and ran away. The Trump administration is now faced with “expect the unexpected”. All administrations are characterized by the way they deal with the unexpected.

The President knew that he would have a day of reckoning with Russia, Syria, North Korea, Iran, and China. However, I do not think he wanted to deal with all at the same time. Surprise the curtain is drawn, the play is about to begin, and they are all on stage. These are the times that try men’s souls. The rest of the world is going about their daily activities not realizing there is a serious situation on stage. The Administration would be prudent to take two mental steps back but remain physically committed. Now is the time to have a strategist assist in superimposing “Winston Churchill” in this situation.

Russia is not interested in a fight unless assets are damaged. China is not interested in a confrontation. China is all about business right now. Iran is bluffing and is basically biting off nose to spite face. Iran is a rogue state that was hoping the Presidential election results of 2016 was different. Iran mis-calculated and failed to realize that the American political system is dynamic. Syria is not going anywhere and the Syrian people want Assad out. The Syrian situation is like a marriage gone bad. Once one person says divorce, the marriage is over. The Syrian people have filed for divorce from Assad. The marriage is over.

That leaves us with North Korea. The Administration would be prudent to take two mental steps back but remain physically committed. North Korea is not changing their address anytime soon. Mail and Missiles can still be delivered. Regrettably, the rhetoric and provocation from North Korea has become unbearable. Japan and South Korea has just about had enough. You walk away from a bully or confront. Those of us who support the President strongly suggest confront. There are those of us who do not need to put our hands on the stove to determine its hot. We can feel and smell the heat even if we are not in the kitchen. Frankly, the hot coal which is North Korea is beyond “Red Hot”, it is “White Hot”. Delivering missile water would provide a good coolant.

Sending coolant to North Korea will undoubtedly produce reaction from China. Nixon will not be happy if we have a military confrontation with China but he understands that action delayed is resolution denied. Nixon would not wish country to be destroyed by the crackpot in North Korea.

NORTH KOREA

TALK TALK TALK

by in China., Iran, Middle East, North Korea, POLITICS, Syria, Trump, Uncategorized | Leave a comment

FOR TALK TALK TALK TOP

The President took the right action with Syria. Striking Syria was the right thing to do. Contrary to comments by hallucinating Democrats and wimpy Republicans, we do not need a good President just one who is right in his actions. While the President’s action was a deviation from his campaign posture, how things look from 10,000 feet on the campaign trail is very different from the view at less than 1 foot when you sit in the Oval office, or after the Inauguration. It could be that you have to assume the responsibility of a war before you get to the Oval office. If you knew the History of our Republic then you are aware that successful Presidents were not necessarily good but were close to 100 percent right during times of conflict.

Senators on both sides of the aisle said the President needed to talk with them first. He needed to consult and console with them. Really, talk about what. The people voted for Donald Trump not you. We the people do not need surrogate Presidents. We want one President. The President has 60 days to act before he has to consider talking to you and only if it appears that he needs more time to deal with the issue. Real men listen, talk just enough, and implement a resolution. Real men implement resolutions even if it is temporary.

Assad needed to have his onion peeled. The missile strike was just the peeling of the first layer. There are more layers of the onion to peel in Syria. The President should destroy the other Air Fields and then wait to see what Assad does. Simultaneously, the Administration should determine the genuine players on the ground and support them. Genuine players on the ground must be Syrians who are seeking a way forward from the tyranny of Assad. Senators on both sides of the aisle, if you wish to talk to the “Right” President then I suggest you meet him for Lunch, preferably Monday. Please be sure to ask him about the weather in North Korea and Iran.

Our Founding Fathers did not talk much about matters of war. They acted decisively as they knew how with the available resources. I turn your attention to Washington, Henry, Hancock, and Lincoln just to name a few. Closer to the modern-day era the following men did not talk about war they walked the war. Those men are Churchill (my mentor), Eisenhower, MacArthur, and Patton.

We owe those great men everything we own. My mentor Winston Churchill was a fun guy and in some instances a comedian but when it was time to fight he fought. There was no time for talking when London Bridge was falling down or he and his men were cornered at sea by Japanese and German fleets. It was in that battle at sea that Winston Churchill proved to man-kind, that Oil and Water do not mix.

I encourage you to search Winston Churchill and see how important he is to your Life. Was it not for Winston Churchill if you were lucky to be born, you would be speaking Japanese, German, or Russian. You would not be speaking English, assuming you do. Those of us who are students of History have rationalized that fact. Do you begin to understand why Presidents including Trump pay their respects to Winston Churchill? If not, I strongly suggest that you do the research.

The Syrian campaign has just begun. There is more work to be done. If you think that Assad will leave quietly, think again. However, feel comforted that there are Syrians in the streets giving thanks to the President for assistance and imploring him to do more.

As soon as Assad leaves, the climate will be consistent and supportive of cleaning up and moving forward. The United States can play a key role in that clean up and reconstruction effort but only in an advisory role. That assistance will go a long way in the true development and nurturing of democracy in the Middle East. That effort will demolish the influence of rogue groups. The people in the region will extricate themselves from rogue groups and anti-West propaganda. The people in the region will no longer be a breeding ground for radical elements. Hope will spring eternal. The Syrian people and Arabs will perceive and pursue a new lease on life and move forward into the 21st Century.

The President is on the right track in Syria. To the Syrian people I say, keep pressing, keep moving forward, and as you strive to reclaim your civil rights and dignity; “Walk like a Syrian”.

TALK TALK TALK BOTTOM

BETTER THE PRESIDENT BE RIGHT THAN GOOD

by in China., Iran, Middle East, North Korea, POLITICS, Syria, Trump, Uncategorized | Leave a comment

SYRIAN MISSILES TOP

Striking Syria was the right thing to do. Contrary to comments by hallucinating Democrats, we do not need a good President just one who is right in his actions. While the President’s action was a deviation from his campaign posture, how things look from 10,000 feet on the campaign trail is very different from the view at less than 1 foot when you sit in the Oval office. If you knew the History of our Republic then you are aware that successful Presidents were not necessarily good but were close to 100 percent right during times of conflict.

Those chemical weapons in Syria came from Iraq. Assad needed to have his onion peeled. The missile strike was just the peeling of the first layer. There are more layers of the onion to peel. However, the Syrian people can help with that effort. Assad was exemplary and target practice. Others who have targeted the USA should prepare for missile visits.

There are more layers of the onion to peel in Syria. The President should destroy the other Air Fields and then wait to see what Assad does. Simultaneously, the Administration should determine the genuine players on the ground and support them. Genuine players on the ground must be Syrians who are seeking a way forward from the tyranny of Assad. The citizens of Syria have been suffering for decades and they are at the breaking point. History has shown that there is a limit to how much the human spirit will take.

It is unlikely that the rhetoric and provocation from North Korea will be allowed to continue. Japan and South Korea will request assistance soon. The eardrums of the citizens of both Countries has just about had enough. At some point, the decibels and provocation from North Korea will become unbearable.

With respect to North Korea, you walk away from a bully or confront. Those of us who support the President strongly suggest confront. There are those of us who do not need to put our hands on the stove to determine its hot. We can feel and smell the heat even if we are not in the kitchen. Frankly, the hot coal which is North Korea is beyond “Red Hot”, it is “White Hot”. A little missile water would be a good coolant.

Sending coolant to North Korea will undoubtedly produce reaction from China. Nixon will not be happy if we have a military confrontation with China but he understands that action delayed is resolution denied. Nixon would not wish country to be destroyed by the crackpot in North Korea.

There is no need for additional American boots on the ground in Syria at this juncture. Let’s wait and see what Iran is thinking. Silence is golden but it is also revealing. Iran is contemplating a response. Syria is bordered by Iraq which has a border with Iran. Focus should be on that Iraq Iran border. Change in Syria will be in phases. There is the immediate aftermath, the development of an interim Government, and the building and completion of a democratic path forward. Undoubtedly the Syrian people yearn for a return to civil rights and human dignity.

I have respect and confidence in the intelligence of the Syrian people. Consistent with the political change they seek, they are not interested in Autocracy or Theocracy. There will not be any Theocratic, Autocratic, or Islamic form of Government. Syrians are educated, pro-western, and extremely cultured.

The default state of man is peace but as you are witnessing sometimes man has to resort to animal instincts and violence to get their entitlements. The Syrian people will calm down as soon as Assad leaves. The international community should not be under the illusion that Assad can be a part of the solution engaging or participating in any cockamamie reform effort. Assad is the problem and the Syrian people have said that loud and clear.

As soon as Assad leaves, the climate will be consistent and supportive of cleaning up and moving forward. The United States can play a key role in that clean up and reconstruction effort but only in an advisory role. That assistance will go a long way in the true development and nurturing of democracy in the Middle East. That effort will demolish the influence of rogue groups. The people in the region will extricate themselves from rogue groups and anti-West propaganda. The people in the region will no longer be a breeding ground for radical elements. Hope will spring eternal. The Syrian people and Arabs will perceive and pursue a new lease on life and move forward into the 21st Century.

The President is on the right track in Syria. To the Syrian people I say, keep pressing, keep moving forward, and as you strive to reclaim your civil rights and dignity; “Walk like a Syrian”.

SYRIAN MISSILES BOTTOM

POLITICAL SIDE SHOW

by in Democratic Party, ELECTIONS, Illegal Immigration, ISSUES, Neighborhood, POLITICS, republican Party, Uncategorized | Leave a comment

SIDE SHOW TOP

Claims of Russian involvement in the Presidential Election of 2016 and surveillance of the Trump transition Team are Side Shows. Enough, let’s move on and forward.

Democrats have decided to spend the next four years embroiled in these issues. Democrats in effect are taking an in-place sabbatical with the intent of sabotaging the Trump administration. The Democrats have signaled that they will not participate in Governing and are comfortable with accomplishing nothing. The electorate is tossed to the wayside. The Democrats are talking heads engulf in discussions about the inconsequential.

My fellow Americans have no interest in claims of Russian involvement in the Presidential Election of 2016 or surveillance of the Trump transition Team. The American people want their needs addressed: Health care, Jobs, Tax cuts, crumbling Infrastructure, the Murdering of our Children by Illegal Immigrants through violence and Non-violent acts.

Our Children are being murdered by Illegal Immigrants on the street with Guns and in some cases Machete. Our Children are being murdered by Illegal Immigrants with the distribution of narcotics. Our defenseless young people are under attack and the Liberal Democrats are avoiding and ignoring the reality. Instead they continue to conduct themselves like bobble – head dolls and engage in inconsequential discussions.

There is a quiet and soon to be loud war being conducted on our Young people by Illegal Immigrants through violence and Non-violent acts. They are killing our Young people one by one. These acts are not incidental it is part of a concerted effort. We need to get these Illegal Immigrants and Gangs out of country. This is a serious matter and demands immediate attention.

Our young people are being targeted and introduced to opioids that have high addictive qualities. Our young people are dying in alarming numbers. This is a serious development. Our descendants and potential future Leaders are being killed openly and surreptitiously. This is a serious matter and demands immediate attention.

The previous administration turned a blind eye to the situation. I hope the current administration pay attention and devote resources to eradicate. I also hope that the talking heads Democrats will join in this effort. If Democrats fail to participate in large numbers individuals who do not should be Repealed and Replaced.

How did the Russians interfere with the Presidential Election of 2016? Did they change the programming of the Voting machines? Did the Russians sneak into homes the night before the election and threaten the electorate and command them to vote for Trump? Is there a citizen who had a visit from the KGB on the night before the election and was summarily commanded to vote for Trump or risk being sent to Siberia the day after? If so, step forward and announce. The Democrats would like to hear from you.

If Democrats plan to mourn losing the Presidential Election of 2016 for the next four years then go home. Leave your Time Card in the rack on the way out. You will not be paid and will not be allowed to cast an absentee ballot on any Bill. Your vote will be confiscated and counted alongside the votes of the Republican Party.

Enough with claims of Russian involvement in the Presidential Election of 2016. Enough with the Political Side Shows. Let’s move on and forward with the business of Governing.

SIDE SHOW BOTTOM

HEALTH CARE (THE MORNINGS AFTER)

by in Democratic Party, health care, ISSUES, NEWS, POLITICS, Repeal, republican Party, Uncategorized | Leave a comment

COMPRROMISE

This article could easily be about the “mourning” after but the morning after characterization should suffice. The Trump administration should understand that you have to accept defeat so that you can appreciate ultimate victory. Let’s have a dialogue about what happened, is happening, and should happen with respect to “America Health Care” legislation. Despite the fact that I am the only one speaking we can still have a dialogue. I write and you read.

If the intent of the “Freedom Caucus” is to do nothing and bring Government to a halt, then they are doing a terrific job. If the “Freedom Caucus” believe doing nothing will metamorphose into a Landmark decision, then my feedback is, awake from that delusion. Each “Freedom Caucus” member should stop collecting pay checks and deposit said funds to the Health Care entity of choice until satisfactory legislation is signed by President Trump.

To Speaker Ryan, ask not what the Republican Party can do for you but what you can do for the Republican Party. Your required action should be self-evident. The Administration and the Party need to move Forward. Please do the right thing. Thank you in advance for your cooperation.

After seven years of discontent the Affordable Health Care proposal on the table is inadequate. I find it difficult to believe that this is the best Republican Party Law makers can draft. It is possible that the principal architect is mentally inebriated from being too close to the project for that period of time. It is possible that the principal architect is subconsciously locked into his understanding and interpretation of the issue that it is impossible for him to construct a satisfactory plan.

What happened: The issue was misunderstood and therefore the almost submitted resolution was doomed to failure. The good President knew that. Now that he understands the issue and the process, I am confident he will take two steps back and the needed step forward. As a reminder. the question was and still is, how do we provide Health Insurance for millions of Americans who are uninsured and in some cases underinsured.

The reason we have a Health Insurance issue is because most Americans have coverage which is connected to their employment. Some of the uninsured are no longer employed and Cobra is too expensive. Others are employed but their Health Insurance is too expensive and simply cannot afford it.

Republican and Democratic Party Law Makers should step back and reevaluate. Sometimes you can get so close to a project that it is impossible to see the forest from the trees. This is where the Principal architect and those close to him are. The frame work of the almost submitted plan can be maintained but before a satisfactory resolution is reached, there will need to be significant Re-write and Amendments.

Each time affordable access to Health care is discussed, cynics and the dis-ingenuous raise the subject of Entitlements. Leave entitlements alone. Such discussion only muddies the water, clutter the table, or create distraction.  Leave entitlements alone. People either paid for or earned their entitlements. Therefore, that subject is irrelevant. There is no need to steal from Peter to pay Paul. However, there is need to reduce your commitment to Peter so that you can address “Affordable Health Care”. The bottom line is can you provide assistance regarding Health Care for your citizens. I think you can. Let’s do it. Not doing it is not an option.

What is happening: the “Freedom Caucus” and Democratic Party are basking in their nothing victory. Both groups are enjoying a “NOTHING BURGER”. I encourage them to wipe that grin off their faces and start working. If they do not, their constituents should Repeal and Replace everyone of them.

What should happen: Truth be told, drafting a satisfactory “Affordable Health Care” proposal is a challenging Project but not insurmountable. People need to step back and assess the situation, respectfully compromise, map a resolution, and then move forward to remedy. It seems to me mapping a resolution should include but not limited to the following bullets:

  • Do not fix or legislate on what is not broken. Citizens who are employed and like their Insurance should be left alone. However, leave the door open should their status change.
  • Those employed but underinsured should be included in the plan.
  • Those employed but cannot afford to be insured should be granted access and provided for consistent with Direct Primary Care entities like Atlas MD.
  • Those unemployed and not insured should be granted access and provided for consistent with Direct Primary Care entities like Atlas MD.
  • For those unemployed and not insured or employed but cannot afford, the Government should develop a partnership with local Clinics to service these individuals and reimburse clinics on a pre-determined or defined scale.
  • Government should encourage Direct Primary Care entities like Atlas MD and local Clinics to engender solid relationships with Local and Regional Hospitals for support or advanced procedures.
  • If unemployment status changes, then individuals should declare and contribute to the cost of their care.
  • Cost for care should = (Historical average Dollar benefits/ current Annual Salary) * Cost for each Service
  • If the above is not maintained and ultimately satisfied, then the annual amount for each Tax Year should be withheld from Refund.

Are we there yet? It will be a tragedy if Law Makers cannot focus long enough to Repeal and Replace the current fiasco known as “Affordable Health Care”. Any legislation with the word Mandate will fail to deliver according to expectations. There seems to be a fixation on the word mandate to the extent that it continues to be a part of Legislation from the Clinton era to now.

Will someone put the word Mandate back into the Dictionary. Equally relevant, any legislation which tries to give more than the necessary credence to Insurance companies will fail to deliver according to expectations.

Law Makers need to determine how much and what involvement should Insurance companies have in the development of the ultimate document. If Insurance companies are given a major role in the crafting of the ultimate document, it will fail to deliver consistent with the real need of the people. Do not expect Insurance companies to assist in the legislation of equitable and in some cases free Health Insurance for the people.

Yes, in some cases based on a means test or affordability scale some of my fellow Americans will require free Health Insurance and Care. And why not. If you can go abroad and provide free Health Care, then why not do it for our citizens. Charity begins at Home.

No Insurance company is about to craft legislation that will take money out of their pockets willingly. That is just not good business practice. However, this matter is not about the business of Health Insurance. It is about the people and their need for affordable Health Insurance devoid of complicated verbiage. Insurance companies will not lose money. Sure, they may lose money on the Health Insurance line item but they will make it up on another line. Do not believe that the Health Insurance companies only sell Health Insurance. The current White House Administration should know that very well.

Now is the time to repeal the current fiasco known as “Affordable Health Care”. Timing is everything. The Republican Party and the newly elected Administration must seize the moment and act accordingly but with more forward thinking. Everyone is consumed with the cost to Government. I agree that is important but we are not there yet. The current stage is the draft. The current stage is the Pro Forma. No plan is complete without revision. There will be time enough for counting, when the deal is done.

Millions of Americans are, or soon to be without Health Care because they cannot afford Health Insurance. I realize that Legislators feel the need to provide input and be part of the Legislation and that is awesome but let’s get on with the provision. I hope the “Freedom Caucus” and Democratic Party are aware of that reality.

Where will the money coming from? The money comes from a reduction of each current line item on the budget reduced by what you think provision of Health Insurance will cost. Any detail discussion of this premise is unnecessary in this article. The best Financial person in the Administration should be able to take what I just wrote and convert it into a revised budget.

LEGISLATION

 

Term Limits for Members of Congress

by in ISSUES, NEWS, POLITICS, Uncategorized | Leave a comment

term-limits-top1

It is time to enact Term Limits for members of Congress, Senators and Representatives alike. I propose a maximum of 8 consecutive years. It is time to get rid of the stagnation on Capitol Hill. The stagnation is so enormous that the stench has permeated country and preventing progress. This once vibrant nation with ideas flowing like water has been reduced to the fluid motion of molasses.

If the Presidency is limited to two terms in fear of undue influence, then Senators and House members should be limited in like manner for the same reason. Members of congress are entrenched in their political ideology and refuse to open their minds and compromise for the good of the people.

Once stagnation sets in, interest is no longer that of the people but for self. Self motivated Senators and House members become career politicians. Career politicians become impediments to forward thinking ideas. Career politicians become obstructionists and their interest is that of the Lobbyist they represent.

Career politicians fail to realize when the merits of their ideas are no longer relevant. Their constant objective is to return to the failed policies of the past hoping that Americans with short memories have forgotten.

The current Tax cuts has not produced any significant new Jobs in the last 8 years.  The unemployment rate is evidence of that. There is no indication whether by Inductive or Deductive reasoning that continued Tax cuts will enable the creation new jobs. If Tax cuts did not create jobs in the last 8 years and specifically between 2008 and 2010 then what is the reasoning behind continued great expectation. The American people are hungry for a resolution.

We need a flow of new people and ideas on Capitol Hill. In the past I encouraged a previous minority leader in the House of Representative to retire to Ohio, find a rocking chair, and sip on his favorite beverage. That encouragement was followed and at last check he is having a great time. Quite candidly, I wish other politicians on Capitol Hill would do the same and retire to their State or another Country. The time to enact Term Limits is now.

Leon T.

term-limits-top

ISSUES 2017 AND BEYOND (NATIONAL AND GLOBAL)

by in Abortion, Africa, Campaign Financing, China., Deficit and Debt, Homosexuality, Illegal Immigration, Iran, Iraq and Afghanistan, Jobs, Manufacturing, Middle East, morality, North Korea, Pakistan, POLITICS, Uncategorized, Unemployment and tagged | Leave a comment

issues-2017

The key issues facing our nation now and beyond are: Unemployment, Manufacturing Jobs, Deficit and Debt, Illegal Immigration, Abortion, Homosexuality, Declining morality by our elected officials, Campaign Financing, Pakistan, the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, Uprising in the Middle East, Turmoil in Africa, inevitable conflict with Iran and North Korea, and growing friction with China.

Unemployment:

Unemployment will be reduced when the cockamamie NAFTA philosophy is tossed. High Unemployment will go away when our Manufacturing Jobs return. Unemployment will be reduced when corporations off shoring manufacturing and Technology Jobs to India and China are taxed as opposed to receiving incentives. Nothing less will stop the hemorrhage of jobs. Unemployment is a sore. Applying a band-aid in the form of stimulus initiatives as was the approach of the previous Administration will not heal this huge sore.

A tax cut for the Affluent to get limited employment benefits for the poor was unconscionable. It is fine to be rich and all right to want to be rich. Unfortunately, no country has ever stayed rich when the number of people in poverty increase. A quick check is look at Haiti. Meaningful tax cuts must include poor people.

Until recently, the Republican leaders were making a lot of noise but the truth is they had no new ideas. Running for President was just a resume builder and honorable mention in the History books. The current Tax cuts did not produce any significant new Jobs. In fact, we have lost more jobs since. The unemployment rate of 10.0 percent is evidence of that. There is no indication whether by Inductive or Deductive reasoning that current Tax cuts will enable the creation of significant new jobs. If current Tax cuts have not created jobs specifically between 2008 and 2016, then what is the reasoning behind this great expectation. I fail to see the Harvest in that idea and the American people are hungry for a resolution. Fortunately, we have a President who understands that Country and Empire will only be great if there is a manufacturing base. A base that has to be supported and strong.

Manufacturing Jobs:

Bring back our Manufacturing sector. The loss of Manufacturing Jobs is the basis for our economic woes. Those jobs were sent off shore. The loss of Manufacturing Jobs created displaced workers who cannot pay their mortgages or purchase goods and services. To suggest that the workers most of whom have a High School Diploma and between the age of 50 and 70 should now go to Community Colleges and re-train is adding insult to injury. It is also undemocratic because you are taking their choice away.

There was a time when just about everything was made in the USA. Now nothing or very little is. What can we do about that, you say? Simply refuse to purchase the merchandise. Personally, if the merchandise is not made in the Western Hemisphere, I do not buy it. Yes, I actively read the labels to see where the product was manufactured.

Finally, we have a President who understands that Country and Empire will only be great if there is a manufacturing base. A base that has to be supported and strong.

Deficit and Debt:

Politicians have demonstrated that the Deficit is less important than Tax cuts. Tax cuts for the affluent is more important than helping fellow Americans in need. Quite candidly, politicians talking about deficit and the size thereof is a façade. It is merely tongue and cheek chatter because they created the deficit. The deficit be damned, we the politicians are obligated to repay our campaign contributors. Some politicians are human Leopards. They cannot change their spots. The voters are not important. Their pledge to America is a charade. I thought that if you ran for public office the understanding was you were making a pledge to serve the people.

Since the financial crisis of 2008, Deficit and Debt is affecting Local, and State governments. The fact is, individuals, Cities, Sates, Country, and the World is on a deficit to Debt path. Quite candidly, with the exception of China a country manufacturing things, one could argue that all countries are in one of two categories – Declared or Undeclared Debt.

The impact of Deficit to Debt on individuals is a bottomless pit of continued high unemployment, Foreclosures, astronomical credit card debt, and the increasing inability of decent human beings to afford necessities. At the same time, Local and State governments are increasing taxes but reducing the quality of services and contribution to Education. States that are in the Declared Debt category are CT, NY, OH, and CA. Others will declare soon.

The trend is reversible. However, it has to be done constructively and not by politicians running around like chicken without heads spewing vitriol or seeking to take away the right of unions to engage in Collective Bargaining. Neither will it be resolved by recklessly slashing and eliminating programs that benefit citizens. Frankly, slashing and eliminating programs that benefit citizens could create the age-old condition of two wrongs does not make a right.

In this world climate of unrest and citizens demanding actual Democracy as opposed to lip service of the ideology, slashing and eliminating programs that benefit citizens could be a recipe for disaster. The recipe and the meal could be on exhibit at a State near you.

Illegal Immigration:

Illegal immigration is a Trojan horse with the sides exposed. In essence, it is transparent and the occupants are visible.

We cannot continue to ignore Illegal Immigration. Any consideration of Amnesty for individuals in country illegally is the equivalent of allowing an invasion. An invasion condones importing criminals, Terrorists, and foreign diseases. Changing current Immigration Laws to accommodate invaders will demonstrate disrespect for citizens, the children of fallen soldiers, and legal immigrants.

Employing illegal immigrants at low wages and ignoring unemployed citizens is wrong. Employing illegal immigrants at low wages is temporary and unsustainable. Think about it, are you doing the same job that your parents did? Do you seriously think that the children of illegal immigrants will? If not, then what.

The fact is illegal immigrants in low wage occupation will not affect you. However, your children and Great Grandchildren will be competing with the descendants of illegal immigrants in the workplace. Consistently, the 14th Amendment MUST be amended. The 14th Amendment where it allows for the preposterous Anchor baby must and can be revised otherwise it will ultimately disenfranchise children born of Legal Permanent residents, Naturalized, and Natural born citizens.

The simple required amendment to the 14th Amendment should read as follows:

You are a citizen if and only if your mother was a Legal Permanent resident or a Naturalized citizen, or a Natural born citizen prior to your conception.

Prior to your conception means that at the time of your birth and the gestation period is determined and concluded your mother must have valid proof that she was a Legal Permanent resident or a Naturalized citizen, or a Natural born citizen prior to the commencement of said gestation period.

In essence, if it is determined by the medical community that your mother gave birth to you in 9 months, your mother MUST have been a Legal Permanent resident or a Naturalized citizen, or a Natural born citizen for more than 9 months before the date of your birth.

Abortion:

I am in favor of abortion and the woman’s right to choose. However, I am not in favor of State sponsored abortion except in cases of Rape and Incest. Even then, I am only in favor of abortion before the end of the 1st Trimester. With experience as a Biochemistry major, there is no explanation for not knowing you are pregnant at some point in the first three months of pregnancy.

Homosexuality:

Homosexuality along with financial decline appears to be the curse of Empires. For the astute, who take the time to read the History books those two conditions were included in the demise of the Greek and Roman empires. Homosexuality has been integral to the demise of communities since the days of Sodom and Gomorrah.

The choice is yours, you can accept or not. Frankly, I do not believe the recent floods, Tornados, fires, earthquakes, and tidal waves are inexplicable or mere natural occurrences. The choice is yours, believe it or not.

Same sex marriage, right. It has a nice ring to it. Doesn’t it? I do not know about you but I grew up with the understanding, that marriage was the union between two people who had the potential to promote the maintenance and growth of the human race. Marriage was not intended to be the legitimization of fornication or the legalization of warped sexual orientation. You can do that through Civil unions or Common Law arrangements. Again, the choice is yours.

Personally, if I were still an undergraduate in college, marriage would not be a thought. Heterosexuals should stop getting married and establish relationships via commitment ceremonies. There are Attorneys available to draw up contracts or binding obligations. Heterosexuals do not need to be part of any institution that charge fees for licenses and higher taxes. Fees as revenue, is the only reason why local governments support same sex marriages.

Declining morality by our elected officials:

Social Media is beneath the standards that Politicians should maintain. When I was a child, Politicians would not consider much less participate in such trite, trivia, and frivolity. Congressman Weiner’s experience is just the tip of the proverbial iceberg.

Congressman Weiner was the first of many who will have their reputation and integrity ruined by tweeting. Politics and Social media are at separate ends of the civics spectrum. You can try to mix oil and water if you wish but unless you are Winston Churchill with the intent to light a fire to destroy the Germans on High seas you will burn like Congressman Weiner.

I do not subscribe to the expectations that our politicians should be Lilly white. However, while in office I expect your conduct to be beyond reproach.

Campaign Financing:

The political campaign process is flawed. Fund raising has eliminated the common person from participation in our Republic. The television Network media has kidnapped the Election process. Hence, the price or investment tag has become astronomical and well above the pay grade of most academically accomplished and capable citizens.

Money or the access to it has become the significant criteria. In addition, survival of character assassination is now the final frontier. Ability and love of country is irrelevant. Character assassination would have eliminated many of our Founding fathers from participation in our Republic. Jefferson with all his financial debt would not have a chance to run for President.

The political system has become Selective rather than Elective. Political incumbents with the help of the media have succeeded in persuading the electorate to believe in the nebulous concepts of Electability and Name recognition. Electability does not equate to performance. Voters are being fed ineptitude wrapped in Electability and Name recognition through advertisement.

It is flawed thinking to conclude that one candidate has more experience than the other to be President. No one has experience dealing with the evolving issues of the world. A candidate’s ability to deal with these issues can be determined during the campaign.

Candidates are now claiming to bring change to the Table, including change in the form of a woman or black. Given such an eventuality one would still be required to prove how good and for whom. The question is, will this change be effective in dealing with the key issues.

Because of the flawed political campaign process, No longer is every citizen born with the potential to become President of the USA. In fact, there is a greater potential that a child born in the USA will be a soldier, sent to a foreign country in defense of some cockamamie philosophy, and return in a body bag. The irony is a soldier fortunate to escape the ultimate sacrifice still has very little chance of being President of the USA because odds are he or she will not get noticed by the selection committee of the political parties. Even after risking their lives in defense of our nation, veterans are experiencing all kinds of challenges from Housing to Medical.

Pakistan:

The Government of Pakistan has all but abdicated its responsibility to rule. Benazir Bhutto is quaking in her grave. Pakistan is a volcano ready to erupt. Any attempt to refute the reality on the ground is simply denial.

Pakistan’s military assets are in danger of being confiscated. That is the objective of Taliban and Al-Qaeda extremists. I envision an abbreviated life for the current Pakistani government. NATO forces had better prepare for the impact of this eventuality. Power ill-gotten is not sustainable.

Monetary aid to Pakistan is a waste of money that can be better spent on our economic needs here at home. Charity begins at home.

The wars in Iraq and Afghanistan:

Leaving Iraq was a mistake and hopefully we have a contingency plan to return. Iraq will not be stable anytime soon. The challenge will be how stable is unstable in Iraq. What levels of instability in Iraq will be acceptable? If Israel’s peaceful existence is threatened by Iraq’s instability, then what? Remember Iran borders Iraq.

Winning the war in Afghanistan is necessary. Comments to the contrary by Russian and international card-carrying members of the Truce society, is not an option. Since Genghis khan Truce has not worked in Afghanistan.

Action delayed will be resolution denied. NATO forces must cleanse the Swat valley and southeastern Afghanistan of Taliban and Al-Qaeda extremists to win this war. NATO forces must be relentless. NATO forces must cease conducting Police action. You cannot have a police call in the military before you create the trash. If NATO forces have forgotten how to create high-density debris, then they need to consult the World War II playbook.

This conflict will get unavoidably messy, but action delayed will be resolution denied. Multi-tasking is not a strong attribute of warfare. Forget about the civilian involvement and Journalist crowding the stage. Simply put you confront the enemy, defeat the enemy, and now how may we help. Perhaps we will but then again maybe we will not.

Uprising in the Middle East:

The Governments of the Arabic speaking countries in the Middle East will change. The question is change to what. Citizens have been suffering for decades and have finally arrived at the breaking point. History has shown that there is a limit to how much the human spirit will take. Even from the days of Anwar Sadat, there were signs that the Egyptians were not exactly “walking like an Egyptian”.

Fact is there will not be any peace in the Middle East between Israel and the Arab countries anytime soon. The sad truth is the only solution for peace between the Israeli and the Palestinians maybe to split the land. I consider this option because Lord Balfour promised Israel and the Palestinians the same parcel of Land in 1951. The only problem is, Israel will consider that option but the Palestinians may not be interested. How do we resolve this impasse, only God knows?

People in the Middle East have evolved through the days of Monarchy, and Military rule. Now it is time for the development of interim Governments, and the building and completion of a democratic path forward that will transform countries into Civilian rule supported by military for security.

Uprising in the Middle East will have a good ending for the United States and the international community. The people in the Middle East, now know that the international community is on their side based on our show of support for their cause. This will change their thinking about Americans. No regime in the Middle East will be immune from the uprising fervor. As long as we Americans show our human side, we will change the hearts and minds of the Arabic people. The people now know that Americans get it. We know that they do not want reforms but rather change. We know that they want change now, starting with the departure of Autocracy and Military rule.

Turmoil in Africa:

The Libyan uprising was but a small portion of Turmoil on the African Continent. I stress continent for the benefit of politicians who probably still believe Africa is a country. The Sudan, South Africa, Tunisia, Botswana, Liberia, Somalia, Nigeria, and the Ivory Coast are countries with issues that must be resolved sooner than later and there are others.

Fact is most of the politicians have no idea where these countries are or anything about the History of these Nations. Therefore, it is not likely that they have or will ever have any constructive approach to resolutions.

Inevitable conflict with Iran and North Korea:

Silence is golden but also revealing. Iran has not given up their quest to destroy Israel, quite the contrary.

Iran is unfinished business. Thanks very much to the worst President in my lifetime, the honorable Jimmy Carter. The Iranian regime is not going away. Wishing on a star or burying your head in the sand like an Ostrich will not resolve the issue. Anyone who thought that Iran was building nuclear plants for Energy purposes is in denial. If the international community fails to act, then Israel will. It is not if but when and how will Israel act. The Iranian regime will be monitoring.

North Korea is a run-away child running wild in search of attention, which undoubtedly becomes a distraction from more important matters as Afghanistan and the need to respond to Piracy off the coast of Somalia. North Korea has decided that it will defiantly stomp its missiles until wants are met. The only problem is, those wants have not been articulated publicly to the world community. The public assumption is that they would like to be a Nuclear power, which unless they are able to win the sub-plot to World War III they will not or should not be allowed to achieve.

Frankly, I think we should render the Armistice of 1953 null and void, restart the Korean War, and soundly defeat the crackpot regime for the last time. The scenario reminds me of a Nursery Rhyme with a little bit of a twist. Some like it hot, some like it cold, some like it in the pot 63 years old. That maybe a harsh analysis but my first impression is usually right and only incorrect if I rethink. The civilized world may have to revise the map of the Korean Peninsula.

North Korea will strike against South Korea militarily, it is more likely than not. North Korea will open a Pandora’s Box whose lid would have been best kept closed. However, the occurrence, which appears inevitable, will serve, as a reminder to the world community, that Action delayed is resolution denied.

The growing friction with China:

Did you know that the Chinese are stockpiling oil and buying up any interest in fossil fuel, in countries such as Burma and on the African continent? Did you hear that the Chinese are building some military looking facility in Brazil? Did you hear that the Architect who built the Twin Towers is building “The World Financial Center” in China? A significant number of our manufacturing and Technology Jobs were off shored to China and corporations are receiving tax incentives for their valor.

Will your politician have the ability to review, articulate, and engender a constructive response. Surely, you do not suppose that all the above are mere coincidence. If you do, then let me remind you that there is no such thing as coincidence.

The key issues facing our nation now and beyond are: Unemployment, Manufacturing Jobs, Deficit and Debt, Illegal Immigration, Abortion, Homosexuality, Declining morality by our elected officials, Campaign Financing, Pakistan, the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, Uprising in the Middle East, Turmoil in Africa, inevitable conflict with Iran and North Korea, and growing friction with China.

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The Way Forward (Black America)

by in Blacks, Democratic Party, ELECTIONS, Entrepreneurship, Neighborhood, POLITICS, republican Party, Uncategorized | Leave a comment

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Years ago, I became a Registered Republican. Many in the Black community uttered dirty remarks. It is refreshing to see that some Black celebrities now realize the “Way Forward”. This is the change that should be embraced by the Black community. For too long the leadership held to the Civil Rights platform apparently not recognizing that Era is over. It is time to move forward and stop complaining, fighting, and marching.

To effect change and bring about your ideals you must be in the room. You must sit at the table. You must articulate the issues and needs. You must have a Road Map and be ready and able to implement plans and solutions.

The Democratic Party is not your conduit or path to solutions. The situations and conditions that ail the Neighborhood will not leave via the assistance of the Democratic Party. The only thing leaving the Hood from the assistance of the Democratic Party, are the “so called” Senators and Representatives. In fact, the Democratic Party added insult to injury with the installation of the previous Executive Branch of Government. The previous Administration was ineffective. What was accomplished was not meaningful and what would have been meaningful was not accomplished.

For too long the Black community placed their eggs in the basket of the Democratic Party. They waited decades for the chickens to hatch. Finally, there is an epiphany. Those who thought the ideology of the Democratic Party would bring forth progress and salvation have realized they were WRONG. In the past eight years, there was a Democratic Party administration in the White House and the Black Community received nothing. Chicago and other inner city neighborhoods are rapidly approaching war zone status. The President in office was  presumably from Chicago yet the community looks the same. In fact, I would argue that Chicago looks worse than it did in 2008.

Setting expectations, the Black Community should not count their chickens before they are hatched in interaction with the current Administration but anything is better than nothing. However, my bet is the Black community will get attention and assistance to begin moving forward.

The Democratic Party is all about Hand-outs, keeping you poor and in pursuit but never attaining. The Republican Party is about ideas and Puritan Work Ethic. Look around you, everything you see was once an idea.

If the current leaders of the “Way Forward” are looking for prominent Republican Party members to contribute, they should invite Alan Keyes and Colin Powell. There is work to be done and enough glory to go around. Here are keys to the success of the “Way Forward”:

  • Empower and encourage young Black people to become Entrepreneurs
  • Train them to be computer literate
  • Encourage them to focus on developing Industries missing from our infrastructure
  • Encourage them to “Think” and improve on existing Industries
  • Encourage them to look at Manufacturing and Farming and not relegate themselves to Services
  • Encourage them to utilize and promote their own talents and not be copycats
  • Instill in them that not everyone is Academically inclined. There are roads, buildings, bridges, and other important segments of our infrastructure that need attention.
  • Encourage them to research George Washington Carver, Uncle Ben, and persons of that Ilk so that they can aspire to creativity and ingenuity

The NAACP and Urban League is in need of an attitude and focus adjustment. The Way Forward is not about complaining, fighting, and marching. The “Way Forward” is not about Jobs, corporate sit-ins, or Internship. Jobs are initial but short-term solutions. Entrepreneurship is long-term solution and the “Way Forward”. If you need something done, be willing and able to do it yourself with the necessary business support.

You must be in the room where ideas are discussed and decisions made. You must sit at the table. You must articulate the needs and issues. You must have a Road Map and be ready and able to implement plans and solutions. I am excited. Are you?

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The Repeal (Health Care Reform)

by in ELECTIONS, health care, POLITICS, Repeal, Uncategorized | Leave a comment

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Each time I think of the mandated Health Care Reform, it reminds me of a sign I saw in San Antonio, TX near the Alamo. The sign said:

BOOZE IS THE ANSWER.

I AM SORRY WHAT WAS THE QUESTION?

From the start the issue was misunderstood and therefore the submitted resolution was doomed to failure. The question was and still is, how do we provide Health Insurance for millions of Americans who are uninsured and in some cases underinsured.

The reason we have a Health Insurance issue is because most Americans have coverage which is connected to their employment. Some of the uninsured are no longer employed and Cobra is too expensive. Others are employed but their Health Insurance is too expensive and simply cannot afford it.

It is not Health Care that needs reform. It is the cost, access, and availability of Health Insurance that needs reform. Philosophically Health Care is no different than determining which car to buy. However, one must first have money or access to make that decision. In this case money or access inclusive of applicable discounts will enable my fellow Americans to purchase Health insurance.

Health Care, is the availability of Medical Goods and Services including buildings and equipment whose sole purpose is to preserve, maintain, and prolong good health and ultimately life. Health Insurance is the free or affordable access to Health care.

Health Care reform as currently constituted is an unproductive provision resulting from the misunderstanding and misinterpretation of the real need. As in any examination in school or in the hospital operating room, if you answer the wrong question or diagnose the problem incorrectly, the result will be unproductive and you will fail to deliver according to expectations.

Americans who had perfectly good Health insurance are unhappy. Simply put they did not need any intervention or tampering with their choice. Americans who did not and still do not because they simply cannot afford it are outraged because Mandate is not the answer. For those who are having a problem with the word Mandate, the kindergarten definition is Order.

Millions of Americans are without Health Care because they cannot afford Health Insurance. Law Makers found it smart legislation to mandate or dictate that people buy Health Insurance and that if they do not purchase coverage they will be fined. Said fines will be collected via Annual Tax Returns. Seems to me that such logic is tantamount to going from the ridiculous to the sublime.

The logic of such legislation says that if John Brown cannot afford Health Insurance for a mere $20 then we should fine him $30 for not being able to afford coverage and we should keep checking and fine him $30 each time we discover that he has not purchased coverage. How interesting, I thought the Health Care debate was about providing coverage and not mandating action or levying fines on people who are already broke.

The last time I looked in the Random House, Heritage, or Oxford English Dictionaries the concepts of Mandate and Provision were very different. Perhaps, the Webster Dictionary has them as being the same. In essence we went to the table to talk about providing health insurance and left mandating health care. We went to discuss the circle and left talking about the Square.

Health Care Reform as currently constituted is a failed investment in time, 20,000 pages of unrequited remedy, and a demonstration of ineffective Governance 101. As a book the foreword would be, “How to go from the ridiculous to the sublime”. The summary would probably be, how to answer the wrong question and generate unproductive results.

The question was and still is, how do we provide Health Insurance for millions of Americans who are uninsured and in some cases underinsured. The time is right for the Republican Administration to Repeal Health Care Reform as is constituted and develop a constructive provision. Keep it simple, probably 20 pages.

Somewhere along the way Journalism and perhaps Law School determined that numerous pages of verbiage is the way to address and explain resolution to important issues. Fortunately, the opposite is true and has withstood the test of time. In essence, Keep It Simple Stupid (KISS).

In addition, you need to determine how much and what involvement should Insurance companies have in the development of the ultimate document. If Insurance companies are given a major role in the crafting of the ultimate document, it will fail to deliver consistent with the real need of the people. Do not expect Insurance companies to assist in the legislation of equitable and in some cases free Health Insurance for the people. Yes, in some cases based on a means test or affordability scale some of my fellow Americans will receive free Insurance and Health Care. And why not. If you can go abroad and provide free Health Care, then why not do it for our citizens. Charity begins at Home.

No Insurance company is about to craft legislation that will take money out of their pockets willingly. That is just not good business practice. However, this matter is not about the business of Health Insurance. It is about the people and their need for affordable Health Insurance devoid of complicated verbiage.

Now is the time to repeal the Affordable Care Act. Timing is everything. The Republican Party and the newly elected Administration must seize the moment and act accordingly.

Assault on Civility

by in ELECTIONS, POLITICS, Uncategorized | Leave a comment

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There should be a ban on the sale of assault weapons. Otherwise, we will continue to have incidents like the campus shooting at Virginia Tech, the Colorado Theater ambush, the Sandy Hook Elementary School massacre, and the Orlando Florida tragedy.

Purchasing an Assault Weapon is the equivalent of buying a car when you only need a Wagon. There is no point in purchasing an Assault Weapon if you are not planning to shoot it. Yes, you can go to the range but idiots buying Assault weapons are not interested silhouettes. Idiots buying Assault weapons are interested in shooting a pop up target, an animal, or another human being, and sometimes a spouse.

I am appalled that individuals can purchase Assault weapons in a civilized setting. How is it possible for it to be legal to sell Assault weapons in civilized Country? We need to stop selling Assault weapons. This is not a war Zone. Many of the idiots buying weapons would not serve a day in the military because they are physically or mentally incapable or just plain cowards. Unfortunately, those human beings commit heinous acts. Except in the unusual situation where someone snaps from imminent danger, there is no understanding use of an Assault weapon in a civilized setting. What happened in Virginia Tech, the Colorado Theater, Sandy Hook Elementary School, and Orlando Florida was Barbaric.

Sales of Assault weapons are not good for the civil health of our society. Gun shops are all about the money. Once again, greed rears its ugly head similar to those who took money to teach people how to fly airplanes and be blasé that said individuals had no interest in learning how to bring the equipment back to earth. Greed got us into a financial crisis. Our Society and way of Life is in danger of falling off the proverbial Cliff and our Authority elements are acting like Dim-Wits”. Greed from the sale of Assault Weapons will create mayhem in our society. We have to ban the sale of assault weapons.

Some of the reactions to the Sandy Hook Elementary School massacre included buffoons chatting about arming teachers. Arming teachers is a bad, ridiculous, and ludicrous idea. Arming teachers is an idea that has permanent residency in the preposterous.

The simple solution is to take some of that ridiculous money Superintendents of the schools make and install cameras at all corners. In addition, put a security detail together with qualified Guards and CCTV. Use common sense and security measures to ensure that unauthorized persons do not gain access to said premises. Have staffed and camera surveillance of all perimeter entrances and exits. Maintenance of such a system will require two shifts of Guards and the second shift is on duty until all school personnel leave each day.

Sales of Assault weapons are not good for the civil health of our society. School children massacred are not part of the Reproductive process. People being murdered on campus, Movie Theaters, and Night Clubs are uncivilized actions.