The Last Republican is a brief tribute written with respect towards the memory, life, advocacy and family of Gerald and Betty Ford with retrospect of the political party that is unrecognizable with the one they once lead. Some may unwittingly prove my point by submitting remarks of inconsideration towards our President, the First Lady or even myself, but it is best sometimes to allow a person’s words to be the teacher. - Tim
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I begin this by respectfully sending my sincerest condolences to the family of Gerald & Betty Ford. Although our political affiliations are different, the commitment your parents and family member shared with the country is the same. I appreciate the work Former First Lady Betty Ford championed and advocated throughout her life. She truly is the last Republican.
Allow me to explain what I mean by the phrase, “The Last Republican”. It is meant as a compliment in regards to the Ford family, but a grim reminder for the political party they once lead in the 1970′s.
The reality is that the Republican Party that was lead by President Ford and amplified the voice of advocacy by First Lady Betty Ford is essentially no more when compared to the shell of itself that’s represented today.
Gerald and Betty Ford provided the true definition of a compassionate conservative. They did not need to hide behind disingenuous campaign slogans and scandalous governing, because they were out front with who they were.
How many Republicans today or even Democrats for that matter during the past thirty years have you heard of publicly admitting that they had a drug or alcohol problem before it became a scandal?
How many Republicans today use their power and/or influence to develop a non-profit hospital to help people with additions?
Although it has been almost forty years since Betty Ford walked the halls of the White House, she essentially is the last Republican who can say “I did” to any of the previous questions.
I may not have always agree with their party’s politics, but I can not count on one hand the Republicans today that I can describe as being compassionate. The few I can name are no longer in office and have virtually been dismissed from the party.
I considered accepting the opportunity of addressing the issues Republicans of today engage in, but rather use the opportunity to respectfully honor the life and works of someone who very well may be, the last Republican.
Today your advocacy is unheard of and unspoken and occasionally demonized by members of those who represent the party you was apart of years ago. At least now you can be at rest and perhaps others may learn from your life.
Thank you Mrs. Ford for your life’s work and dedication to people in need. Thank you for being a reminder to Republicans today of what the Republican use to be. May you rest with and in eternal peace.
Thank you.
If you know someone struggling with a drug or alcohol addiction, please help them by any means necessary. You may also consider contacting the Betty Ford Center at www.bettyfordcenter.org for additional information and assistance.
Anthony Miller Black Republican Quits Arizona Post Due To Tea Party Threats
“Today my wife of 20 years asks me do I think that my PCs (Precinct Committee members) will shoot at our home?
I love the Republican Party, but I don’t want to take a bullet for anyone.
So with this being said I am stepping down from LD20GOP Chairman. I will make a full statement on Monday.”
- Frm. Chairman Anthony Miller
Anthony Miller is the state of Arizona’s ONLY Black Republican to chair a legislative district. In a party already vastly racially unbalanced and standoffish towards the interests of the communities it hasn’t served in decades is suffering another lost in the battle of racial equality.
Verbal threats and Internet blog posts from Tea Party member’s causes it’s only African-American Republican district chairman to quit.
News from AZCentral.com: 43-year-old Anthony Miller resigned from his position as the Chairman of Legislative District 20 Republicans; which covers sections of Chandler, south Tempe, and Ahwatukee Foothills.
Mr. Miller resigned six hours after the massacre in Tucson, Arizona. The former chairman, in an email, stated he made the decision after his wife asked him if he thought someone would shoot at their home.
According to the AZCentral.com article, Mr. Anthony Miller received emails stating that someone was going to “get him”. He also claims several people with Tea Party ties, referred to him as “McCain’s boy” and motioned with their hands as if they were shooting him.
Final Arguements:
No one can say I haven’t been trying to warn you about this happening. There’s only so much one can accept or ignore before coming to the conclusion of doing something about it.
Some will not read anything that is written and just look at it as an opportunity to argue, disagree, discount or disprove. This is just one reason why I have simply given up and written the Republican & Tea Party off. When I say I’m letting time and history be your judge, that’s what continue to be documented in report after report with instances such as this. Those who continue will see that I’m honestly not trying to come against you, but warn you. I’m not your enemy, but what has made our political environment what it is today is who I’m targeting.
All you can do is try, but you can’t always change a mind that is convinced that it is right and leaves no room for discourse or opportunity for consideration. When someone continuously points something out to you with multiple examples or occurrences to support their argument, you must stop long enough to consider others beyond your own understanding.
Take a good look at your party and its members and be honest with yourself. Stop looking to disprove or point the finger at Democrats, look at yourself. What has the party you are affiliated with become? The other guys may have problems, but how do they compare to my own problems?
Listen, I may not be a Republican, but I am open-minded and honest enough to have tried to throw you a line to help pull you back in. You may be a Republican, but I still see you as an American. That is more than I can say many of your fellow Republicans have said or viewed me and members of my party.
What happened in Tucson, Arizona was an unfortunate trial run. This will happen again and is likely going to be a more visible target. I am not blaming you for the shootings, but giving the language and behavior many members have exhibited is the reason for the focus on you. This can not be ignored any longer.
I’m absolutely pleading with you to listen. You must not only speak out against what the GOP has become, but become more active in doing something about it. I say this not to be mean or score any political points, but take a serious look at the party. Stop ignoring the obvious. The Republican Party is virtually a regional, culturally restrained White Heterosexual Christian political organization. It leaves no room for growth or diversity. The Democratic Party is capitalizing off of that. I simply can not say it any plainer than that.
Mr. Anthony Miller, I think you made the right move. Not because of any political differences we may have, but you adhered to your position as a husband, father and man. Perhaps you can help your fellow Republicans better comprehend what it is many have become, because I give up.
I’m pleasantly surprised that Joe Scarborough, a Republican, is in agreement with what I’ve been trying to warn Republicans since 2008. I’ve given up on them, but I applaud your efforts Joe. I’m sure they will essentially demonstrate some sort of cognitive dissonance, but I guess when you’re scared you’ll accept anything for comfort.
Why is it that Republicans do not want to talk about immigration?
Could it be that it exposes who they essentially have become or welcomed into their ranks?
When you observe their position on this issue you must ask the question of how long will we sit silently with a voyueristic mentality on immigration reform?
Yes, Democrats shouldn’t be comfortable either. The time is now and this is why Democrats, Moderate Republicans & Independents should speak up more than ever in solidarity with our immigrant friends who seek citizenship and those Americans immediately descended from immigrant parents.
There is a problem with illegal immigration in the country, but why is it always an issue with Republicans & their subsidiaries when the immigrant is Spanish or African decent? I’m sure you can find some European Illegal Immigrants, but where’s the outrage then?
Isn’t this what America is? A nation of immigrants. Or are we so captivated by who we are that we have forgotten what we are?
I’m not a Joe Scarborough fan at all. I’m generally suspicious of him, but this former Republican Congressman is one of the few who you push away from the GOP. He makes a valid point and so do his guests.
Finally, Republicans and friends. Do you realize the growing list of groups you continue to tell go away? If you want to believe that it’s never about race then why is the GOP so overwhelmingly White? Yes, you have some Blacks and a few others, but what you don’t understand even about that is what is destroying the party. Democrats will continue to beat you over the head with this billy club until you do something about it in your positions and policy. To site an instance of diversity does not prove that you are diverse. Diversity is proven over time and by what you advocate.
For those who fail to understand why the GOP and its subsidiaries continue to receive the accusations of racism despite the repeated instances, perhaps you can kindly explain the Civil Rights risk Arizona is taking with its anti-immigration state law.
Many are prone to believe what they hear on FOX News and Conservative Talk Radio, but how do you look into the eyes of your Black, Latino, Asian & Arab friends or neighbors if you have any?
To stopping anyone who appears to be an illegal immigrant…?
Do you not see the problems with that?
Do you realize by your support, what and where this can lead to?
The enforcement of this law will be a Civil Rights violation; an unconstitutional seizure of a person with probable Cause (or even “reasonable suspicion”); and, also a violation of 42 USC sec. 1983: http://www.answers.com/topic/section-1983-1
It’s obvious that many do not, because most do not take the opportunity to consider the history and experiences of others due to their self fascination of their own.
Democrats should not be so politically cautious, because Republicans are marching off an electoral cliff by their blind support and disregard on this state law. They’re giving you political ammunition; do like Sarah and lock and load. Since it’s not about inciting violence.
Why stop here? Why not stop anyone who is Black, because they may be up to no good? While you’re at it, why not stop any one who appears to be Muslim, because they must be up to no good? Why not stop anyone who appears to be gay, because they must be up to no good? Let’s stop anyone who doesn’t fit a narrow description for what it is to be American.
The Great American Melting Pot… Please.
You can not be so blind to fear that you are so easily rounded up and subjected to succumbing to the cultural stereotypes that has plagued American history since its heist from the Native Americans.
Yes, there is a problem with illegal immigrants, but stopping anyone who appears to be an immigrant is not the answer. You’re bound to stop and American citizen? Do you not understand basic Civil Rights laws?
This is why the Republican Party and its subsidiaries will continue to alienate itself to irrelevancy.
This is not the way to solve the problems with immigration. You can blame Washington, but I believe there were some Republicans who are to blame as well as Democrats for inaction. You can not blame President Obama for all that is ill and not consider the roles of Bush, Clinton, Bush, and Reagan and beyond. This was a problem long before President Obama even announced he was running for the office, so lets be honest.
Do you realize that the more you alienate people the smaller and less powerful you become?
Who do you think benefits from your cultural ignorance?
This should be a very simple question for everyone who listens to this video. Although I have a feeling some will try to rationalize it, their response will be true evidence of their hypocrisy if they neglect telling the truth.
I ask Republicans, Conservatives & the Tea Party folks to specifically address this if you can. I have a feeling that many won’t.
How can you be Pro-Life and wish death on someone?
FINAL UPDATE/RE-POST:
Before I even begin this I have to say Thank You to Keith Olbermann for using his forum to say this. I know that there will be Republicans, Conservatives & Tea Party folks who will only see the name or read the title without listening completely and dismiss or deny what is being said. But I’ve been saying this since September 2008 on here with example after example. I’ve taken my own advice and honestly tried to consider the concerns and perspective of all of the people who associate with the GOP in one way or the other. I’ve repeatedly written that there are some good people in the party, but I have also repeatedly challenge you to address one issue. Each time I repeatedly have no Republican, no Conservative, no Tea Party supporter honest or open-minded enough to sincerely consider the challenge.
All I ask of you to do is to JUST LISTEN.
I have warned several times to Republicans to do something about the cancer that is killing the party and the response is silence. I know the post is being read, because the numbers spike each time I’ve asked these questions far beyond any other topic. So I have only one other group within the Republican Party to address, but I believe they to will continue to remain silent. I may be a Democrat, I may be Black, but I am first an American. I’ve taken so much crap from and tried to explain it to you in such a way that all can understand that now I give up on you and can only ask people to pray. But I can’t ask that either, because the venom has gone beyond just politics and back into the pews of the church. I know it’s not all churches, synagogues, temples or mosques. I personally know it’s not all White Conservatives, but you’ve got to address this issue, because it is going to kill the Republican Party.
So I THANK YOU Keith Olbermann. Yes he is a Democrat, but he is one of the few if not the only White Man who has the forum to speak exactly about this issue. I don’t know if those of you who are Republicans, Conservatives or support the Tea Party activities are of the mindset to truly comprehend what is being said by Keith and others and has been said by myself on here, but I pray that you do.
FINAL UPDATE/RE-POST:
This is what I’ve been talking about for more than two years. It’s not all Republicans, but if Republicans who do understand what’s going on within their party don’t speak up and speak against the people with a hateful agenda who is taking over your party then they will destroy it. You don’t need me to tell you that, but it appears that some do. We may disagree on issues of policy or political method, but hate is our common enemy. What do you think there’s so few people of any color except for White in the GOP? All of them are not suddenly Democrats. It’s the hate that they see and the racism both unconscious and overt that essentially places a sign outside the door saying “For Whites Only”. Yes, I’m speaking figuratively, but those who are aware get the point. These are not ‘isolated incident’ or ‘people getting stupid’. This is a pattern of hate, discrimination and isolation that has become the New Republican Party. I’m not so partisan that I want to see you destroyed by hate. We, Republicans & Democrats have a love/hate relationship, but for me I love you a percent more than I hate you. Do something about this problem within the GOP or you will soon see the end of its relevancy in modern politics.
Now I’ve reference this same point for months now and even suggested Democrats to vote for the Republican Kay Bailey-Hutchinson in the Texas Republican Primary for these reasons.
The second reason is that Gov. Rick Perry’s has yet been able to receive more than 50% of the Republican Primary vote, which will ensure a runoff with the equally conservative outrageous Debra Medina.
Now if Kay Bailey-Hutchison actually pulls the upset and wins the runoff, Bill White is more likely to win, because the Republican Teabagger/Secessionists who Rick Perry plays to and Debra Medina says she represents will stay home on election day in November.
While it would be fascinating to watch Perry and Medina try and out-crazy each other in the name of “Conservativism” during the runoff, the thought of Medina — who makes Perry seem like some sort of technocratic moderate — as governor of the second-largest state in the country is too scary to contemplate.
Rick Perry is a corrupt, shallow, pseudo-Christian among other thins, that Texas Democrats should jump at any chance to finally get rid of him.
This is why I wrote “Let The M.F. Burn”, “Why Democrats Should Support the Republican Tea Party”and “My Problem With The Republican Party”. It’s not to give actually support, but just not opposing them so much. The Republican Party has a cancer on its hand and it believes these people are the answer to defeating Democrats. They will not listen to the few real Republicans that remain, they’re rather listen to Rick Perry, Sarah Palin, Tom Tancredo, Rush Limbaugh & FOX ‘News’.
When it has gotten so crazy that Republicans rather leave their party than deal with the Conservative Citizens Council it’s become. When John McCain, Kay Bailey-Hutchinson and Charley Crist is going up against a Republican Tea Party challenger it’s not the Democrats the Republicans have to worry about it’s those Teabaggers who calls themselves Republicans, Republicans has to worry about because they’re destroying and making an absolute mockery of what was the GOP.
I’m not worried about those who disagree with this post, because I know I’m right on this one. I’ve written warning after warning for months and now watching the GOP walk its last mile to that political elephant cemetery where many true Republicans have gone to rest. If nothing else, Tea Party people at least have the decency to form a legal political party instead of hijacking the Republican Party.
Quick Note: I apologize for the length of this note, but wanted to address as much as I could in response to a question posed to me by email. I share this response not as a slight towards Republicans, but as an opportunity for Republicans to gain a better understanding of why their party is becoming culturally homogenized. I welcome all who wish to comment on any of the points made here or add too it. I would love to hear what you have to add to it.
I ask that you keep in mind my previous post directed towards the Democrats. This is not an opportunity for those members of the Republican Tea Party folks to prove my points with closed-minded, bias and unconscious racism statements about those who are not Republicans. If so, be prepared to be asked some very difficult questions that I’m sure you don’t want to address.
My point here is not to bash the GOP, because I believe the true Republicans are being phased out by a bunch of Tea Party folks posing as Republicans. Personally, it shouldn’t take a Democrat to defend the ideas of the GOP, but I’m fair minded enough to consider my opposition. I know all Republicans are not bad or even unconscious racist, but that’s what it is becoming. I honestly rather contend with real Republicans than the racist who are posing as Republicans. There are some out there, but they’re being forced into to early retirement by a dumber, more unaware, ill prepared, delusional, non-socialized and unconsciously bigoted conservative who has hijaked the grand ole party.
Conclusion of My Problem with the GOP
When all that we hear and see are Republican congressman and women, Republican senators use racially tinged language that interestingly falls short of full blown racist talk, those messages and images are received.
These are just two terms cut short of their full racialized meaning, but still understood. Those who may not know or understand the racial history of these terms in reference to Black men allow me to give you the quick definition. People use to call Black men who they perceived were acting smart or were better versed than them as “Uppity Niggers” a very commonly used slur towards Black men and women during Jim Crow. Boy was also used during this period towards grown men who were Black as a demeaning term. It was short for “Nigger Boy John”. Now I admit that some younger and historically unaware Blacks along with Whites and many others may not know or understand these phrases on their surface. That’s why they were spoken in the way they were.
I won’t spend too much time briefly teaching you about the American history they don’t teach you, but you will recall the reason why I played upon the theme of “Consider Others” throughout 2009 on many of the topics written on my blog and elsewhere.
One more note, this is why Rep. Joe Wilson, Republican congressman from South Carolina did more damage than the GOP realized in his outburst. It’s the instinct lack of respect many Republicans who has subscribe to the ideology of the former Dixiecrats that lead to such a rude interruption. This is why so many called Joe Wilson a racist. He may feel that he isn’t and perhaps he may not be, but he resembled one with his language.
Now he would not have been called a racist if the President were White, because it wouldn’t have the same racial history to support such a claim. White men called other White men liars, but never in that setting or context. You may say that it’s not about race, but it’s about what you don’t understand or have taken the opportunity to acknowledge is the real issue. It’s not just Republicans, but many are so afraid to speak openly address the factors of race and how it has impact their lives and what role they play in either perpetuating the problems or working towards a solution they miss the opportunity to bridge the gap. Speaking about the role of race has played in your life also helps clarify your own assumptions and misconceptions about race that you unconsciously subscribed to. If you can’t do that then you must reexamine yourself and make a sincere effort to learn.
We may always have those who have found comfort in believing race isn’t an issue, because they haven’t experienced the affects of it. Many have been normalized to believe this fallacy through repetition, lack of socialization and being told not to bring it up. Some even make the mistake of assuming the inclusion of a few makes up for the exclusion of so many.
The Republican Party today does itself a disservice by continuing in the divisive and exclusionary practices it has latched itself to. The Tea Party is destroying you and is pushing you further to the right. The big tent is folding under the weight of unrecognized discriminatory language used by the leaders it has chosen to speak for it. It will continue to fold under the structure it has today, because the proxy of patriotism it uses is thinly veiled and provides no protection of the insurgence of the unconscious racist who uses it as a political voice. But screaming name calling and criticizing doesn’t birth policy, but places any hope of resolution on the respirator.
So to the gentleman who asked me the question and my thoughts about the GOP I thank you for feeling that you can approach me to ask it. That’s progress. You may recall me saying that I believed that not all Republicans are bad, evil or even racist. I may disagree with you, but I’m willing to work with you, but you have to unclench your fist to shake my hand in agreement.
The Republican Party has a problem on its hand that it refuses to address.
Finally I want to address a particular group of Republicans who I’ve found myself more disappointed in than any others in the GOP. The silence of Black Republicans is disappointing, because I do listen and respect most of you enough to believe what you’re saying. I’m not a Republican and due to the conduct and how the party has been represented and presented to me I seriously doubt I would ever be a Republican. But it blows me away that you’re not saying anything to what you know is not right. My problem with the Republican Party isn’t necessarily the party itself, but the overwhelming silence of the members who are sitting back watching it go against what it once stood for.
I may explain the problem to you, but it is up to you as the Republican to resolve it. You can allow your suspicions of what I say to you govern your actions in a politically partisan manner, but you do so at your own electoral peril. I’m not lying to you. I’m actually trying to help you out by trying to explain the problem.
Now you can do something about it or continue your walk towards what will eventually be the absolute political conversion to what is known as the Conservative Citizens Council.
I have many more reasons why I am not a Republican, but will simply save that for another day. I only touched on one part of the GOP who I believed who stood true to the foundation of the party, but I have only found Colin Powell brave and courageous enough to speak truth to power that now has a grip upon the Republican Party and its ideology. I’ll address this group and others within the GOP soon.
Quick Note: I apologize for the length of this note, but wanted to address as much as I could in response to a question posed to me by email. I share this response not as a slight towards Republicans, but as an opportunity for Republicans to gain a better understanding of why their party is becoming culturally homogenized. I welcome all who wish to comment on any of the points made here or add too it. I would love to hear what you have to add to it.
I ask that you keep in mind my previous post directed towards the Democrats. This is not an opportunity for those members of the Republican Tea Party folks to prove my points with closed-minded, bias and unconscious racism statements about those who are not Republicans. If so, be prepared to be asked some very difficult questions that I’m sure you don’t want to address.
My point here is not to bash the GOP, because I believe the true Republicans are being phased out by a bunch of Tea Party folks posing as Republicans. Personally, it shouldn’t take a Democrat to defend the ideas of the GOP, but I’m fair minded enough to consider my opposition. I know all Republicans are not bad or even unconscious racist, but that’s what it is becoming. I honestly rather contend with real Republicans than the racist who are posing as Republicans. There are some out there, but they’re being forced into to early retirement by a dumber, more unaware, ill prepared, delusional, non-socialized and unconsciously bigoted conservative who has hijaked the grand ole party.
As a gentleman politely, but curiously questioned my political views towards the Republican Party and the many things that I’ve written about the GOP. Then briefly gave me the history of the GOP as it relates to Black Americans, something I already knew. I tuned out briefly to gather my thoughts for how I would respond. I strongly disagreed with what he was saying to me, but wanted to use it as an opportunity to both learn and teach.
Once he concluded he asked me this question. I gave him credit for his approach, because he has obviously read some of the things I’ve written in the past couple years and knew that I wasn’t going to be reactionary. He asked, “What is my problem with the Republican Party?”
I decided to share my response to his question in this way with the hopes that one Republican/Conservative with a mind open enough may gain an understanding of not only the issue I have with the GOP, but what many others have with the Republican Party as it is today.
First, I thank the gentleman who emailed me. I appreciate you reading and the sincerely considering what I have to say about various issues. You are correct; I try not to demonstrate any bias towards people in terms of race. That would be true for politics if it had some measure of fairness to it, but it’s not.
I would say my problem with the GOP is not its existence, but what it has become. I’m extremely disappointed with what it has chosen to adopt and what it has chosen to ignore. The failure to adhere to the principles it was originally founded upon is one of the core reasons for its present cultural, racial and even regional homogenization of its membership.
Although I can respect the Blacks who are Republicans you’ve mentioned I ask you to consider how difficult if not insurmountable the odds they are forced to contend against within the Republican Party to be elevated amongst the ranks of power. The opposition from within the GOP itself waged against its chairman Michael Steele is evidence of some of its problems.
I actually had very few harsh words for Michael Steele before he became Chairman. I disagreed with some of his political ideology, but respected him and acknowledge his competency. Now I’m a Democrat, that’s not proper partisan policy. Personally I believe he has an impossible job on his hands, but he has been placed in a troubling position. I congratulated him and said that I would probably spend more time defending him from attacks from his own Party than opposing him. I understand why he has deflected the argument of tokenism, although my suspicions remain. So the chairmanship of Michael Steele does not prove the GOP is now inclusive when it continues to advocate policies that work against the productiveness of all individuals, not a selective group of entities or those with corporate leaning interests.
I understand the argument some Republicans have against Democrats, but the pattern I’ve noticed in that argument is the avoidance if not all out denial of their own accountability and contributions. If not solely at least the acknowledgment of their participation to the problems they accuse Democrats of. Not everything is the fault of someone else; you have to take responsibility for your actions.
Furthermore, the Republican Party has continued to make the same mistake Democrats has made and many of the subscribers of both parties have, by making electoral assumptions. The most obvious and recent is that Blacks will not support the GOP, so why waste the time seeking their vote. What’s interesting is the absolute dismissal of why that is. In addition to that you perpetuate the mistake by making the same assumptions. Do something about it. The reason why many people including Blacks are so turned off by the GOP is that Republicans continue to make electoral assumptions about them.
The example often given to support the argument that Blacks, Latinos, Asians, Muslims, etc… are more prone to vote for the Democrat is the same argument I offer to you to reconsider. You say that it’s a waste of time for any Republican to seriously seek their vote, but this is the problem and electoral assumption that Democrats are happy to hear you make. And they will continue to exploit and benefit from your mistake as long as you continue to make it. You keep making the same mistake over and over and over again which in return helps build, strengthen and ensures a Democratic vote.
If you continue to make this assumption the resentment and animosity that Blacks, Latinos and a growing number of others the GOP continues to ignore will continue to grow. How hard is this to understand? I’m literally telling you what the problem is, but so many refuse to listen or realize the role the GOP is playing or being played on in terms of how it’s viewed by ‘others’.
I have a question for everyone who believes they’re open-minded enough to answer it. We all have found ourselves at some point in time irritated with the partisanship found primarily between Democrats and Republicans. The boxes we willingly place ourselves into is an indicator of the limitations we place on ourselves and others.
However alluring or comfortable it may be this is not an opportunity for you to take shots at the opposing party, but a chance to consider the source of the problem. So who amongst the voting population is free enough to seriously answer this question.
Republicans:
If you tend to vote Republican more often than you have for any other political party for whatever the reason may have been, then I ask you to respond to this question.
Name at least three (3) Democrats you have and would vote for again if they was running for office today.
_________________________
_________________________
_________________________
Democrats:
If you tend to vote for the Democrat more often than you have for any other political party for whatever the reason may have been, then I ask you to respond to this question.
Name at least three (3) Republicans you have and would vote for again if they were running for office today.
_________________________
_________________________
_________________________
Republicans, Democrats & Independents:
Those of you who are unable to think of anyone you personally would vote for then I would like for you to think about how you are contributing to the partisanship.
I’ve been asked for my thoughts on the Republican Tea Party ‘convention’ this past weekend and at first I really didn’t care too much about them, because I didn’t see it as a Demcractic problem, but a Republican problem. So after thinking about it this is what I have to say about it. I’m sure someone will hate me for it, but it is your choice to hate.
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My Fellow Democrats — I have not lost my mind. I think you’ll find the meaning in this message quite delightful. Just sit back and enjoy the conversation.
True Republicans – All I can honestly say to you is good luck dealing with this infestation you have in your house. I’m happy to crush some of them if they escape from your reach, but you have a real problem on your hands. Good Luck.
Republican Tea Party – Although you will never believe it, I now thank you for the work that you’re doing. Your existence and constant cries to be seen and heard is a tremendous benefit to the work that I try to do. You help me spotlight the real issue that is helping destroy the U.S. So as a Democrat I’m asking you to keep it up while you can.
Why Democrats should support the Republican Tea Party?
Now some may think I have lost it by even suggesting Democrats support the Republican Tea Party, but think about what essentially they’re doing and you may understand why I say support them. Support them not in their ideology or actions, but support them by allowing them continue to speak and represent the Republican Party. The fire is within the GOP now and no effort by any Independent or Democrat can put it out. Some conservatives believe this is what the GOP needs, but in reality it isn’t.
Here’s where people will really get upset with me, but oh well.
This Republican Tea Party ‘movement’ is a politically, socially & culturally ideological cancer that is determined to consume the Republican Party. Although it has been diagnosed repeatedly by Democrats, Independents and even concerned and true Republicans it has gone untreated for decades and now it is a mass of itself onto the Republican Party at its most vulnerable time.
Some Democrats are missing the point and we waste our time addressing these people as if they were credible. It is not a Democratic problem, but a Republican problem. Listen to what I’m telling you Democrats. Address the Tea Party as it is, a Republican Problem because the warning signs have been there for decades and they have allowed it to fester into what is now labeled as the Republican Tea Party.
Watch how and what the Tea Party participants attack and you will find their weakness, because it’s what they are trying to cover up.
They are a threat to true Republicans, not Democrats as they want you to believe. Allow them to write their own history, because it is essentially what they are making the Republican Party; history.
No matter how much evidence you show them of how wrong, exlusionistic or hypocritical they are none of them have the mind to comprehend it. You can shut them down with knowledge of history; your history and theirs.
Try to understand it this way. No one wants to be called a racist, not even the racist. They know who they are and they know what they’re doing. An example to put it in perspective. Blacks, Jews, Latinos, Arabs, Asians and our Gay/Lesbian friend of these groups can not reform the White Supremecist; only Whites can do that because not all White people are racist. I would suggest many are not, but many choose to not address the racist as an attempt to minimize it. This is not a viable solution. Another example, if you were diagnose diagnosed with a disease you don’t say oh well or I don’t believe it, you get a second opinion and third if you wish. If the symptoms persist you would do something about it, right? This is essentially what the Republican Party has failed to do since the Southern Strategy was put into practice and now they have a serious problem. Some may refuse to admit it, but when you think of a Republican and/or even a Teabagger what’s the image that appears in your head? I guarantee it wasn’t a female or a person of color if you’re being honest. You can just do a Google image search on “Republican or Tea Party” if you’re unwilling to confront the question yourself and you’ll discover the commonality of the people within the images.
Democrats, lets stop fighting the Republican Tea Party folks as frustrated the hypocrisy may be and let Republicans define themselves. They will either side with these people who have infected their party or stand up for truth like the Republican Party was originally founded upon, not what some have made Republican/Conservativism out to mean today. Democrat you should take the time to learn the history of both the Republican Party and the Democratic Party in addition to the U.S. history of discrimination, because many of these people don’t understand the social and cultural implications of what they’re doing and how it continues to stain the GOP.
These people of the Republican Tea Party are desperately seeking attention and acknowledgment from the broader society. Although it’s mostly unrealized to them, but the psychological impact of a changing cultural demographics and being socially, intellectually, economically, politically and culturally left behind subconsciously is what motivates them to do the things they’re doing and remain unaware of what it is that they’re essentially doing.
Politically speaking this is a Republican problem. Let Republicans address this issue. If they continue to avoid it, it’s just going to consume them and as a result the few true Republicans that may remain will not have the conscious to continue supporting such an ideology that goes against what they’ve been taught.
OK, you can hate me now if that’s you choice to hate.*
I’ve gotten so fed up with the state of American politics, that I don’t think it’s worth the time and effort to untangle the web it’s woven for itself. After reading a story about Republicans, Democrats, Congress, The White House, November Elections etcetera I’m left with what I have to say below. Enjoy.
Republicans — You may believe you have an opportunity to make huge gains and take over the House & Senate this fall and anything is possible, but it’s unlikely. This is the reason why.
You have to contend with the factions within your own party who seeks to control the party’s message. That message has been a consistent one that continues to broaden the divide between the staunchly conservative Republicans and the moderate Republicans. It continues to broaden the divide between the Republicans and anyone who isn’t White, Christian or lives in the South. You have to contend with the Tea Party folks. I don’t know how you can silence this group of misinformed, scared and fringe of society Americans. They will continue to make the Republican Party look like the political arm of the Conservative Citizens Council. For those who don’t know who that is, and then look it up.
There isn’t any reason to get upset with me. If you would listen to what I’ve been telling you, you would realize the various hints I’ve given on this blog on how to make strong gains on the Democrats, but you won’t listen so, there you go. Enjoy the fight with the Tea-baggers. I hope you bring them to their electoral knees. (No pun intended)
Democrats – You may believe you’re safe this political season, but you’re not. What is a majority if you think like the minority? This has been your problem ever since November 2006 & 2008. Yes, Bush/Cheney are finally gone. Yeah! I’m happy to, but if you don’t use this opportunity to do something to rectify the turmoil and damage they inflicted to the middle class and lower then they will fall victim once again to the electoral vultures who only seek their support to get in power before they kick them back to the curb with their pants on the ground.
So Democrats it’s good that brains are back in Washington, but if you continue to act stupid then what can one smart person really achieve in a chamber of idiots?
I believe you can do this right only if you recognize who you should fight. It’s not the Republicans. They can continue to say No to anything and everything and complain and point fingers at you all day long. None of it will make a difference if you’re doing what you’re suppose to be doing and communicating that with the American people. As long as you continue to engage the Republicans with the same nonsense as they dish out, you will be nothing more than the minority party, regardless if you’re temporally in the majority.
Mainstream Media – I know it’s your job to report the story, but is it your job to distort the story too? SOME of you are intentionally scaring people who are already stressed and battered by the inundation of sensationalism. SOME of you are skewing the facts deliberately for ratings. This is not just FOX News, but unfortunately you can find it at times on MSNBC & CNN, not to mention others. People are listening and watching you. Some are naïve enough to give you more credibility than you deserve or have earned. The time for you to honestly report the news, challenge politicians and the people who protest of the truth in their facts and actions. If not, you should just change the title from news to entertainment.
Americans – Pay attention, think and research a variety of sources, not just the ones that leans towards your ideology. I personally think certain conservative radio show hosts are some of the most despicable people walking today, but if you consider what they’re saying and fact check it not with FOX News, but other organizations that are not in the business of ratings, subscribers or hits you may discover what really true. When and/if you do then you’re able to challenge those same folks with fairly measured truths on your side.
Also, consider others beyond yourself and your point-of-view. I may not always agree with some of my more conservative friends, but I’ve learned from them by listening to their concerns and perspectives and so have they from me. This is how you discover the truth, because what may be true for you may not be true for me. Consider other realities beyond your own.
The White House – Good luck. I’ve given up my consideration and desire to run for political office, but I wish you the best. This is true for the present administration and future administrations of any political party that has the true interests of American citizens at heart.
Conclusion — I give up. Don’t worry I’m still going to vote and continue to be involved in my civic participation opportunities, but I believe I believe my voice and voices like mine of both parties are not being heard over the constant chatter of the pundits, politicians and political prognosticators. I have to focus my attention on broader things than exclusive coverage of American politics as messed up as it has become. There’s other things that’s ruining the world and that’s what I’m going to focus more of my energy upon. Yes I will revisit American politics, but not as critically as before. Unfortunately it’s just not worth the efforts anymore.
I’ve honestly tried to cover the whole of what was mentioned during the State of the Union by President Obama. There’s so much I’ve decided to break it out into parts for easier reading and hopefully comprehension.
I want to offer this one point early that Chris Matthews of MSNBC offered that I believe was the point I’ve been trying to make to many people for the past year specifically regarding this President as it relates to America’s racial perceptions and history. He said, “I didn’t see him as the Black President, but simple as the President.”
You are absolutely correct. Yes, race has and continues to play a significant role in the prism we ALL have perceived this President, no matter how subtle or overt we have chosen to acknowledge this fact. What I believe Chris Matthews was essentially suggesting was that he paid more attention to the content of his character, than the color of his skin.
So I begin by asking a question of those who has decided to criticize this President for anything that goes wrong and those who seeks to apologize on behalf of this President for what may go wrong. Here’s the question for consideration.
“As President, how would you effectively navigate these issues that President Obama has to contend with in the midst of a political party who refuses to cooperate with you unless it’s on their terms, another party too timid to act, people questioning your patriotism, citizenship, legitimacy and leadership. While calling you a racist, socialist and other ridiculous names in midst of a recession and two wars that was not of your doing? How would you navigate through that?”
As you’re contemplating that, allow me to offer my take on President Obama’s first State of the Union.
SOTU 2010 Part A:
First to admit a bias, I absolutely love how he began the speech, because he was teaching in a way. Walking down the rhetorical middle invites all to walk with him on this oratorical journey. He’s grabbing your hand in a gesture of consideration of our common interests. So you normally will get a silent smile and attention from me when I recognize you doing that.
One more thing, I love the line giving in the introduction, “A Stubborn Resilience in the Face of Adversity”. I’ve got to use that.
Alright, first point…
Now the line I believe may have been overlooked was at the beginning. “Tonight I would like to talk about how together we can deliver on that promise.” Four words, TOGETHER WE CAN DELIVER is what is missing in practice of our decisions, instead we trend our comfort to I or we doesn’t include me or you and the only thing delivered is cynicism.
The State of the Economy
The Financial Rescue Program was initially created by the previous Administration. I guess better late than never, but not to focus on the mistakes of the previous administration it was when this administration took it over where it was enacted. Remember it was the 11th hour when the previous administration finally had to address the economy, bags were already packed. So this administration modified it to make it more transparent and accountable to the tax paying public. In only a year MOST of the money that so many were complaining about has been recovered that was spent on the banks. Now let that sink in for a quick second.
Let’s briefly mention a few of these things for consideration.
As the administration took steps to stabilize the economy, they also took actions to get it growing once again by trying to save as many jobs they could and assist those who became unemployed. The extension of unemployment benefits to more than 18 million Americans, sought to make health insurance 65% cheaper for families who receive coverage on COBRA. Less I mention to my more conservative friends the 25 different tax cuts. Yet some still are not satisfied.
Side Note: Another line I loved was when the President said, “That’s Right, The Recovery Act, also known as the Stimulus Bill” as if he was saying “Yeah I said it, now what.”
Built to Compete
As the President was speaking about Clean Energy Jobs, small businesses and slashing the tax breaks for companies that ships jobs oversees the camera panned the gallery and a ‘majority’ was standing, but a certain ‘minority’ wasn’t. I’m not speaking about race or gender, but affiliation. I found that very interesting. Wouldn’t you think if a certain group was Pro-America as they campaign to be they would be against companies that shipped American jobs oversees? Yet, some still are not satisfied.
Now I thought it was politically clever that the President said that he wanted a jobs bill on his desk without delay in terms of placing pressure on the Senate to act, since they have been much of the problem. What’s clever is that no time table was mention. I’m not going to hammer the President on this one just yet, because I believe it is a wise political move and proves lessons learned. This too has gone unnoticed by the critics on both sides.
Jobs, No Patience
7 Million Jobs were lost, 2 million created, but still we have 5 million more to go just to break even. Many can’t afford to have the patience of Job when it comes to jobs. But this situation wasn’t of this President’s doing, but at least he’s working to resolve it.
The U.S. can not afford to do nothing, someone has to be willing to have some faith in our own abilities and do something to get things done. Yet, some still are not satisfied.
How Long, Not Long
Now for those who know the speeches, sermons and writings of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. this line may ring familiar when the President asked the question, How Long? Keep in mind that President Obama is well versed on Dr. King just as some of us are, so to me this was a nod in that direction. This has got to be one of the smoothest politically rhetorical remixes I’ve ever heard. See I couldn’t have been there, because the ‘preacher’s kid’ would have came out on that one. Some understand what I mean by that.
Side Note: Another great line. “I do not accept 2nd Place for the United States of America.”
One more thing for those who watched the SOTU, notice how one side did not stand when the President said, we’ve got to get this right. Another reason why you have to look at the commitment of people, because some are just committed to NO.
The Overwhelming Scientific Evidence of Climate Change
Here’s an easy question for those who somehow insist there is no evidence of global warming. Consider who agrees with your position. Your boy Bin Laden deplores climate change. Now I gave you enough credit to believe you wouldn’t side with Bin Laden, but I guess I was wrong.
The point made that was significant and probably inarguable was that “the nation that leads on the clean energy economy is the nation that leads the global economy.”
Is this race week or something, because the hypocrisy of the Right, both Republican and Religious Right is amazing. Is there at least one Republican willing to instruct their party representatives, elected and not elected to keep quiet when it comes to race? The GOP isn’t exactly the Party of Inclusion it claims.
I wasn’t even trying to beat you up this week with race, but you leave no choice. How can anyone sit silently on the sidelines allowing untruths to go unchecked?
Rush Limbaugh:
Now I was waiting and hoping that no one, especially Republicans used the earthquake in Haiti as a political opportunity to attack President Obama. But then there is Rush Limbaugh.
What depth will you not go?
There’s so much one could say in a time of tragedy, but… never-mind. I would love to know where’s the conservative outrage of Rush Limbaugh’s comments. Where the calls for dismissal now of such a statement from within the GOP?
This is what all Rush “To Judgment” Limbaugh had to say about Haiti.
Rush Limbaugh, I hope your words stain the remains of what existence of a conscious you have. How can you possibly use this as a political & racial opportunity to attack? Are you that committed to hate that it has completely blinded you to love and compassion?
I’m sure someone may try, but I see no defense for Rush Limbaugh.
Now Pat, why do you do this? So this earthquake in Haiti was the result of a deal with the Devil in the 19th Century with France to gain its freedom?
Now do you really want to go there?
We’ve went down this road earlier this week, but if you want me to keep hitting you over the head with this club I will. Maybe something will begin to sink into your harden heart.
Pat if you knew history beyond your own you would have known that Haiti is the only country to successfully free itself from slavery through a Slave Revolt.
I’m not going to waste my time trying to teach the unteachable. You make disproving you too easy. A simple Wikipedia search about Haiti would have enlightened you of the Haitian Revolution that you mistakenly referred to.
This is why so many people, specifically of color are turned off to the Republican Party, Rush Limbaugh, Pat Roberson and the Religious Right for the depth or should I say shallowness you demonstrate.
Now I’ve reference this same point for months now and even suggested Democrats to vote for the Republican Kay Bailey-Hutchinson in the Texas Republican Primary for these reasons.
