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They're all the Same?
Author: BobR
Date: 04/06/2011 12:47:33
You've heard the claim... perhaps even said it yourself on occasion: "They're all the same". Democrats and Republicans are all the same? Really? Let's take a look.
In some ways, I suppose that's true. Pick any random politician and I'm sure you will find they take campaign donations from Someone/Some Company You Don't Like. They've likely voted on a bill in a way you disagree with. They've likely broken a campaign promise.
But does that make them all the same? What about on substantive issues that really matter?
Consider health care reform. That was a major effort pushed through by the Democrats. Sure it's not what most of us wanted. There's no "public option" (which means different things to different people), it's not "single-payor"... But it does address some of the worst practices of the insurance industry. That's why the Republicans (and their insurance company overlords) are fighting tooth and nail to get it repealed. The Democrats care about people; the Republicans care about business.
What about the Environment? Even though the EPA was originally created by a Republican (Nixon - back when Republicans were about policy, not politics), they are constantly trying to keep it from doing its job. Right now the Republican-controlled House is trying to pass a bill to prevent the EPA from regulating certain forms of pollution. The Dems have dubbed it the "Koch Brothers Appreciation Act" and President Obama has vowed to veto it, should it show up on his desk. When was the last time Democrats tried to neuter the EPA?
Medicare, Social Security, and other "entitlement programs" (a term Dems should stop using) are also targets of the Republicans. The Republicans are essentially trying to defund Medicare and replace it with a voucher system (what the hell is it with Republicans and vouchers? It seems to be their answer to everything). Are Democrats leading the charge to kill these programs?
President Obama has often been criticized for not closing Gitmo. How can he when a Republican-led Congress put laws into place making it impossible for him to do so?
Republicans are also trying to defund Planned Parenthood, NPR, and take down AARP. Is this something Democrats generally do - attack groups that help people? (correction: non-wealthy and/or powerless people)
How often do you see Democrats pushing measures requiring state colleges to promote "traditional family values"? How often do you see Democrats palling around with religious "leaders" that say Welfare causes blacks to "rut like rabbits"?
So the next time someone says Democrats are the same as Republicans, there are plenty of examples of why that is absolutely not true. The next time someone says that President Obama is the best Republican president we've ever had, send them to this site. Elections matter. Getting politicans that care about people over business matters.
In some ways, I suppose that's true. Pick any random politician and I'm sure you will find they take campaign donations from Someone/Some Company You Don't Like. They've likely voted on a bill in a way you disagree with. They've likely broken a campaign promise.
But does that make them all the same? What about on substantive issues that really matter?
Consider health care reform. That was a major effort pushed through by the Democrats. Sure it's not what most of us wanted. There's no "public option" (which means different things to different people), it's not "single-payor"... But it does address some of the worst practices of the insurance industry. That's why the Republicans (and their insurance company overlords) are fighting tooth and nail to get it repealed. The Democrats care about people; the Republicans care about business.
What about the Environment? Even though the EPA was originally created by a Republican (Nixon - back when Republicans were about policy, not politics), they are constantly trying to keep it from doing its job. Right now the Republican-controlled House is trying to pass a bill to prevent the EPA from regulating certain forms of pollution. The Dems have dubbed it the "Koch Brothers Appreciation Act" and President Obama has vowed to veto it, should it show up on his desk. When was the last time Democrats tried to neuter the EPA?
Medicare, Social Security, and other "entitlement programs" (a term Dems should stop using) are also targets of the Republicans. The Republicans are essentially trying to defund Medicare and replace it with a voucher system (what the hell is it with Republicans and vouchers? It seems to be their answer to everything). Are Democrats leading the charge to kill these programs?
President Obama has often been criticized for not closing Gitmo. How can he when a Republican-led Congress put laws into place making it impossible for him to do so?
Republicans are also trying to defund Planned Parenthood, NPR, and take down AARP. Is this something Democrats generally do - attack groups that help people? (correction: non-wealthy and/or powerless people)
How often do you see Democrats pushing measures requiring state colleges to promote "traditional family values"? How often do you see Democrats palling around with religious "leaders" that say Welfare causes blacks to "rut like rabbits"?
So the next time someone says Democrats are the same as Republicans, there are plenty of examples of why that is absolutely not true. The next time someone says that President Obama is the best Republican president we've ever had, send them to this site. Elections matter. Getting politicans that care about people over business matters.
Comments:
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Comment by 
velveeta jones on 04/06/2011 12:51:35
velveeta jones on 04/06/2011 12:51:35
Yeah, I see NO difference in Dennis Kucinich and Michele Bachmann. None. 
Comment by 
wickedpam on 04/06/2011 12:53:05
wickedpam on 04/06/2011 12:53:05
Morning 
Comment by 
Raine on 04/06/2011 12:58:25
Raine on 04/06/2011 12:58:25
We've never had a woman head the DNC before this President.
Good morning!
Good morning!
Comment by wickedpam on 04/06/2011 13:29:16
wickedpam on 04/06/2011 13:29:16
I think DWS is gonna be a great DNC leader 
Comment by Raine on 04/06/2011 13:37:37
I think it is the best political news I have heard all year.
Raine on 04/06/2011 13:37:37
Quote by wickedpam:
I think DWS is gonna be a great DNC leader
I think it is the best political news I have heard all year.
Comment by 
Scoopster on 04/06/2011 13:38:18
Scoopster on 04/06/2011 13:38:18
Mornin' all & Happy Humpdee! 
I totally agree.. and I think she'll also kick some major ass unlike several of her predecessors.
Quote by wickedpam:
I think DWS is gonna be a great DNC leader
I totally agree.. and I think she'll also kick some major ass unlike several of her predecessors.
Comment by Raine on 04/06/2011 13:41:11
Raine on 04/06/2011 13:41:11
So in Shutdown news, it appears that Federal Employees can claim Unemployment benefits. I don't have a problem with that, but I think it's important for people to remember that this is a huge burden on the States.
Questions regarding unemployment compensation:
Q: Are employees entitled to unemployment compensation while on furlough?
A. It is possible that furloughed employees may become eligible for unemployment compensation. State unemployment compensation requirements differ. Some States require a 1-week waiting period before an individual qualifies for payments. Agencies or employees should submit questions to the appropriate State (or District of Columbia) office. In general, the law of the State in which an employee’s last official duty station in Federal civilian service was located will be the State law that determines eligibility for unemployment insurance benefits.
Comment by 
TriSec on 04/06/2011 13:54:34
TriSec on 04/06/2011 13:54:34
Morning, all.
There's a minor note happening up here in this Commonwealth. You may have heard that Gov. Patrick has appointed the first Lesbian to the SJC. (Supreme Judicial Court.)
Some lowly state Republican went on the air yesterday and pointed out that the Governor has so far appointed a black man, an Asian man, and now a Lesbian. He went on to ask "where are the family values justices? {translation: white men.} Finally stating, "I guess the governor is just not a family values guy".
I won't waste any more time trying to find a link; it was on WBZ.
There's a minor note happening up here in this Commonwealth. You may have heard that Gov. Patrick has appointed the first Lesbian to the SJC. (Supreme Judicial Court.)
Some lowly state Republican went on the air yesterday and pointed out that the Governor has so far appointed a black man, an Asian man, and now a Lesbian. He went on to ask "where are the family values justices? {translation: white men.} Finally stating, "I guess the governor is just not a family values guy".
I won't waste any more time trying to find a link; it was on WBZ.
Comment by TriSec on 04/06/2011 14:01:02
TriSec on 04/06/2011 14:01:02
Oh, and one other thing. With the government shutdown looming, the Repugs have come up with one thing I agree with.
They have proposed that nobody in Congress should get paid for the duration of the shutdown. I'd be OK with that.
They have proposed that nobody in Congress should get paid for the duration of the shutdown. I'd be OK with that.
Comment by Scoopster on 04/06/2011 14:01:36
Scoopster on 04/06/2011 14:01:36
OK election results from Wisconsin!
The big race, for the WI Supreme Court seat, is too close to call. At the moment the incumbent Repub leads by 835 votes, with 34 precincts yet to report in (mostly in Dem-friendly territory). It's gonna be within the margin for a recount either way. Considering that the Repub was leading by 50 POINTS at the start of the labor protests, this is one hell of a turnaround.
Most of the other races turned out the same way - most of them went to the Dems, including Scott Walker's old county exec position which was won by a "Dem" by an almost 2-1 margin. How's that for karma?!
One more for ya.. Check this out!
The big race, for the WI Supreme Court seat, is too close to call. At the moment the incumbent Repub leads by 835 votes, with 34 precincts yet to report in (mostly in Dem-friendly territory). It's gonna be within the margin for a recount either way. Considering that the Repub was leading by 50 POINTS at the start of the labor protests, this is one hell of a turnaround.
Most of the other races turned out the same way - most of them went to the Dems, including Scott Walker's old county exec position which was won by a "Dem" by an almost 2-1 margin. How's that for karma?!
One more for ya.. Check this out!
Comment by Raine on 04/06/2011 14:05:41
Raine on 04/06/2011 14:05:41
Even tho he's not my fave politician, I am also quite happy that Tim Kaine is running for Senator. I have a good feeling about this.
Comment by 
BobR on 04/06/2011 14:14:04
BobR on 04/06/2011 14:14:04
Comment by Raine on 04/06/2011 14:15:27
Raine on 04/06/2011 14:15:27
As far as Madison, I wonder how many people realize how hard it is to unseat a sitting judge? that it is so close is amazing.
Comment by wickedpam on 04/06/2011 14:17:58
I am too. I think Bobby Scott(I think that's his name) a Rep is going to announce on 7/1 whether or not he's going to primary Kaine. From what I understand Scott's more progressive but Kaine is more likely more electable
wickedpam on 04/06/2011 14:17:58
Quote by Raine:
Even tho he's not my fave politician, I am also quite happy that Tim Kaine is running for Senator. I have a good feeling about this.
I am too. I think Bobby Scott(I think that's his name) a Rep is going to announce on 7/1 whether or not he's going to primary Kaine. From what I understand Scott's more progressive but Kaine is more likely more electable
Comment by TriSec on 04/06/2011 14:27:16
TriSec on 04/06/2011 14:27:16
I like breathing through my nose.
Too bad the feds think I want to make Crystal Meth.
Too bad the feds think I want to make Crystal Meth.
Comment by Raine on 04/06/2011 14:28:48
Oh? that is interesting.
I have to say, Mala -- now that I have a few months under my belt here in Virginia (and yes, I know i need to get out of NoVa more :P) I totally get what you have been saying about Virginia politics. You were right.
Not that I doubted you, it's just amazing to be seeing it in real time...
Raine on 04/06/2011 14:28:48
Quote by wickedpam:Quote by Raine:
Even tho he's not my fave politician, I am also quite happy that Tim Kaine is running for Senator. I have a good feeling about this.
I am too. I think Bobby Scott(I think that's his name) a Rep is going to announce on 7/1 whether or not he's going to primary Kaine. From what I understand Scott's more progressive but Kaine is more likely more electable
I have to say, Mala -- now that I have a few months under my belt here in Virginia (and yes, I know i need to get out of NoVa more :P) I totally get what you have been saying about Virginia politics. You were right.
Not that I doubted you, it's just amazing to be seeing it in real time...
Comment by Raine on 04/06/2011 14:30:25
You too, huh?
It amazes me that I can go pick up Bob's prescriptions easier than i can get stuff that allows me to breath.
Raine on 04/06/2011 14:30:25
Quote by TriSec:
I like breathing through my nose.
Too bad the feds think I want to make Crystal Meth.
You too, huh?
It amazes me that I can go pick up Bob's prescriptions easier than i can get stuff that allows me to breath.
Comment by Raine on 04/06/2011 14:31:26
Raine on 04/06/2011 14:31:26
It just occurred to me that my Nephew's DC trip is next wednesday. I really hope it isn't cancelled due to a government shutdown.
I am still hoping to see him!
I am still hoping to see him!
Comment by Raine on 04/06/2011 14:43:29
Raine on 04/06/2011 14:43:29
Donna Brazille is going to be the interim Chair until Wasserman Shultz is sworn in at the end of the month! 
Comment by TriSec on 04/06/2011 14:44:38
How messed up is it that I can pick up Oxycontins without a picture ID at the pharmacy, but I need my license, can only buy a limited amount, and have to sign the logbook for a decongestant?
TriSec on 04/06/2011 14:44:38
Quote by Raine:
You too, huh?
It amazes me that I can go pick up Bob's prescriptions easier than i can get stuff that allows me to breath.
How messed up is it that I can pick up Oxycontins without a picture ID at the pharmacy, but I need my license, can only buy a limited amount, and have to sign the logbook for a decongestant?
Comment by wickedpam on 04/06/2011 14:47:18
yes come out the redneck side of the belt way XD
Aw, thanks for the conformation about VA sometimes I think was going crazy in this state. We really are a state that could split. There could be 3 VA's W.VA, NoVA, and SoVA
wickedpam on 04/06/2011 14:47:18
Quote by Raine:Oh? that is interesting.Quote by wickedpam:Quote by Raine:
Even tho he's not my fave politician, I am also quite happy that Tim Kaine is running for Senator. I have a good feeling about this.
I am too. I think Bobby Scott(I think that's his name) a Rep is going to announce on 7/1 whether or not he's going to primary Kaine. From what I understand Scott's more progressive but Kaine is more likely more electable
I have to say, Mala -- now that I have a few months under my belt here in Virginia (and yes, I know i need to get out of NoVa more :P) I totally get what you have been saying about Virginia politics. You were right.
Not that I doubted you, it's just amazing to be seeing it in real time...
yes come out the redneck side of the belt way XD
Aw, thanks for the conformation about VA sometimes I think was going crazy in this state. We really are a state that could split. There could be 3 VA's W.VA, NoVA, and SoVA
Comment by wickedpam on 04/06/2011 14:48:34
eeg -if I remember right, all the museums closed too when this happened - though I could be wrong since I think the Smithsonian is funded in other ways besides with some fed money
wickedpam on 04/06/2011 14:48:34
Quote by Raine:
It just occurred to me that my Nephew's DC trip is next wednesday. I really hope it isn't cancelled due to a government shutdown.
I am still hoping to see him!
eeg -if I remember right, all the museums closed too when this happened - though I could be wrong since I think the Smithsonian is funded in other ways besides with some fed money
Comment by Raine on 04/06/2011 14:52:59
From what I heard on WTOP this morning all museums and National parks get shut down.
I'm waiting for my sister to call me back. We were hoping the teachers would let me come visit him at the dinner they are having in town Thursday night.
Raine on 04/06/2011 14:52:59
Quote by wickedpam:Quote by Raine:
It just occurred to me that my Nephew's DC trip is next wednesday. I really hope it isn't cancelled due to a government shutdown.
I am still hoping to see him!
eeg -if I remember right, all the museums closed too when this happened - though I could be wrong since I think the Smithsonian is funded in other ways besides with some fed money
I'm waiting for my sister to call me back. We were hoping the teachers would let me come visit him at the dinner they are having in town Thursday night.
Comment by Raine on 04/06/2011 14:54:27
This is where Virginia is quite similar to NY. Yes, I am quite serious...
Raine on 04/06/2011 14:54:27
Quote by wickedpam:
yes come out the redneck side of the belt way XD
Aw, thanks for the conformation about VA sometimes I think was going crazy in this state. We really are a state that could split. There could be 3 VA's W.VA, NoVA, and SoVA
Comment by wickedpam on 04/06/2011 14:55:54
I think alot of its boils down to urban vs rural
wickedpam on 04/06/2011 14:55:54
Quote by Raine:This is where Virginia is quite similar to NY. Yes, I am quite serious...Quote by wickedpam:
yes come out the redneck side of the belt way XD
Aw, thanks for the conformation about VA sometimes I think was going crazy in this state. We really are a state that could split. There could be 3 VA's W.VA, NoVA, and SoVA
I think alot of its boils down to urban vs rural
Comment by Raine on 04/06/2011 15:04:55
Agreed.
Altho this tea party thing has me flummoxed.
Raine on 04/06/2011 15:04:55
Quote by wickedpam:
I think alot of its boils down to urban vs rural
Altho this tea party thing has me flummoxed.
Comment by wickedpam on 04/06/2011 15:08:56
tell me about it- at our last little street festival thing in Oct they had a table - I just rolled my eyes and walked by
wickedpam on 04/06/2011 15:08:56
Quote by Raine:Agreed.Quote by wickedpam:
I think alot of its boils down to urban vs rural
Altho this tea party thing has me flummoxed.
tell me about it- at our last little street festival thing in Oct they had a table - I just rolled my eyes and walked by
Comment by 
livingonli on 04/06/2011 15:10:37
livingonli on 04/06/2011 15:10:37
Good morning everyone.
Comment by wickedpam on 04/06/2011 15:20:10
*checks clock*
Hey Liv- your up early today
wickedpam on 04/06/2011 15:20:10
Quote by livingonli:
Good morning everyone.
*checks clock*
Hey Liv- your up early today
Comment by livingonli on 04/06/2011 15:22:00
livingonli on 04/06/2011 15:22:00
For me these days this is early. I miss when I used to be able to get up by 9 AM.
Comment by Raine on 04/06/2011 15:26:14
Raine on 04/06/2011 15:26:14
Quote by wickedpam:Quote by livingonli:
Good morning everyone.
*checks clock*
Comment by TriSec on 04/06/2011 15:27:36
TriSec on 04/06/2011 15:27:36
TriSec will be folding up later this afternoon.
Between Javi screaming all night, Mrs. TriSec hacking up her spleen, and my having anoxia, I think I managed about 2 hours of sleep last night.
Between Javi screaming all night, Mrs. TriSec hacking up her spleen, and my having anoxia, I think I managed about 2 hours of sleep last night.
Comment by Raine on 04/06/2011 15:28:18
Well it is nice to see you, Liv. Doesn;t matter the time of day....
Raine on 04/06/2011 15:28:18
Quote by livingonli:
For me these days this is early. I miss when I used to be able to get up by 9 AM.
Well it is nice to see you, Liv. Doesn;t matter the time of day....
Comment by Raine on 04/06/2011 15:29:15
oh that doesn't sound good. Being sick sorta sucks.
Raine on 04/06/2011 15:29:15
Quote by TriSec:
TriSec will be folding up later this afternoon.
Between Javi screaming all night, Mrs. TriSec hacking up her spleen, and my having anoxia, I think I managed about 2 hours of sleep last night.
oh that doesn't sound good. Being sick sorta sucks.
Comment by TriSec on 04/06/2011 15:33:07
TriSec on 04/06/2011 15:33:07
And then I'm away at camp Sat-Sun-Mon for training. At least the weather is shaping up to be good, and we're down towards the Cape so it should be pleasant enough. (Kingston, MA)
Comment by wickedpam on 04/06/2011 15:33:32
Exactly
wickedpam on 04/06/2011 15:33:32
Quote by Raine:Quote by livingonli:
For me these days this is early. I miss when I used to be able to get up by 9 AM.
Well it is nice to see you, Liv. Doesn;t matter the time of day....
Exactly
Comment by livingonli on 04/06/2011 15:33:39
livingonli on 04/06/2011 15:33:39
At least I haven't been sick of late. Tired, yes. Sick, not so much.
Comment by Raine on 04/06/2011 15:41:08
Raine on 04/06/2011 15:41:08
It's always forward when you look into the rearview mirror.
Comment by TriSec on 04/06/2011 15:47:37
TriSec on 04/06/2011 15:47:37
Have I mentioned that my team is undefeated and in sole posession of first place?
(National League Central, that is.)
(National League Central, that is.)
Comment by Scoopster on 04/06/2011 15:47:39
Scoopster on 04/06/2011 15:47:39
This just in from AP : with 3 precincts (and absentee ballots) outstanding, Kloppenburg has taken a 226 vote lead.
Comment by Scoopster on 04/06/2011 15:49:08
Dude what the heck is going on this year.. the entire AL East is turned upside down!
And if that wasn't enough... THE METS ARE IN FIRST PLACE!
Scoopster on 04/06/2011 15:49:08
Quote by TriSec:
Have I mentioned that my team is undefeated and in sole posession of first place?
(National League Central, that is.)
Dude what the heck is going on this year.. the entire AL East is turned upside down!
And if that wasn't enough... THE METS ARE IN FIRST PLACE!
Comment by TriSec on 04/06/2011 15:50:45
TriSec on 04/06/2011 15:50:45
Never mind that; I missed you yesterday. What was that sorry excuse of a basketball game Monday night?
Comment by livingonli on 04/06/2011 15:51:59
Even my friends who are Met fans expect the team to suck.
livingonli on 04/06/2011 15:51:59
Quote by Scoopster:Quote by TriSec:
Have I mentioned that my team is undefeated and in sole posession of first place?
(National League Central, that is.)
Dude what the heck is going on this year.. the entire AL East is turned upside down!
And if that wasn't enough... THE METS ARE IN FIRST PLACE!
Even my friends who are Met fans expect the team to suck.
Comment by Scoopster on 04/06/2011 15:53:48
That game was a combo-bimation. On one hand the defense for both teams was insane and that caused the low score all around.. but then you had Butler who couldn't buy a bucket even if their booster club held a bake sale.
Scoopster on 04/06/2011 15:53:48
Quote by TriSec:
Never mind that; I missed you yesterday. What was that sorry excuse of a basketball game Monday night?
That game was a combo-bimation. On one hand the defense for both teams was insane and that caused the low score all around.. but then you had Butler who couldn't buy a bucket even if their booster club held a bake sale.
Comment by Raine on 04/06/2011 15:56:33
a caller on the show said the precincts that are still to be counted are in Milwaukee... That is GOOD NEWS!!!
Raine on 04/06/2011 15:56:33
Quote by Scoopster:
This just in from AP : with 3 precincts (and absentee ballots) outstanding, Kloppenburg has taken a 226 vote lead.
a caller on the show said the precincts that are still to be counted are in Milwaukee... That is GOOD NEWS!!!
Comment by Raine on 04/06/2011 15:59:04
I know you posted this already, scoop, but this is worth a repost:
Raine on 04/06/2011 15:59:04
Quote by Scoopster:Quote by TriSec:
Have I mentioned that my team is undefeated and in sole posession of first place?
(National League Central, that is.)
Dude what the heck is going on this year.. the entire AL East is turned upside down!
And if that wasn't enough... THE METS ARE IN FIRST PLACE!
I know you posted this already, scoop, but this is worth a repost:
Comment by Scoopster on 04/06/2011 16:06:00
There's two precincts left in Milwaukee County, but from what I hear they're in low-population, red-leaning suburbs. They'll probably go for Prosser, but he won't get enough out of them to take back the lead.
Either way it's gonna come down to absentee ballots and an inevitable recount.
Scoopster on 04/06/2011 16:06:00
Quote by Raine:Quote by Scoopster:
This just in from AP : with 3 precincts (and absentee ballots) outstanding, Kloppenburg has taken a 226 vote lead.
a caller on the show said the precincts that are still to be counted are in Milwaukee... That is GOOD NEWS!!!
There's two precincts left in Milwaukee County, but from what I hear they're in low-population, red-leaning suburbs. They'll probably go for Prosser, but he won't get enough out of them to take back the lead.
Either way it's gonna come down to absentee ballots and an inevitable recount.
Comment by Scoopster on 04/06/2011 16:11:17
Scoopster on 04/06/2011 16:11:17
...and now there's a Milwakuee County official saying that AP's wrong and all of the county's precincts are reported.
wtf?
wtf?
Comment by Raine on 04/06/2011 16:22:30
Raine on 04/06/2011 16:22:30
OyVey. Wisconsin is really going the the very end, huh?
Comment by velveeta jones on 04/06/2011 16:26:26
Worst emoting EVER! This guy should never ever get in front of a camera again.
velveeta jones on 04/06/2011 16:26:26
Quote by Raine:
I know you posted this already, scoop, but this is worth a repost:(my sister's partner is a rabid Met's fan... She is a yankee fan. Somehow they make it work... )
Worst emoting EVER! This guy should never ever get in front of a camera again.