Barack Obama - From party crasher to invited guest‏

I don't often write on the American political scene. Oh, I touch on it from time to time, and I do keep a close eye on what's happening south of the border. But being Canadian my principal focus is on events this side of the 49th parallel.

I do however have my opinions on American politics certainly, and on how both the Democrats and Republicans choose their eventual presidential nominees. In the case of Barack Obama, I view him as an incredible candidate who basically broke the door down when he beat out Hillary Rodham Clinton for the right to carry the Democratic banner in 2008.

Money, power and influence permeate the political scene, both here in Canada and in the United States. Without the support of powerful and wealthy behind the scenes players, a potential candidate has little hope of gaining the traction necessary to vie for the White House once every four years. Note that I say little hope, not zero.

Back in 2008 the candidate who had that behind the scenes support was Ms. Clinton in my opinion. Of course she would have to go through the primaries and garner the delegates needed for the nomination, but from my perspective it was supposed to be little more than a formality. Call it theatre if you will, not completely staged, but corporate media would provide the required narrative so the great unwashed would believe she was their choice.

Sounds far fetched?

Look at what happened to Ron Paul in the recent Republican primaries. After coming second in Iowa, an early contest capable of boosting a lesser known candidate's profile, major media outlets wouldn't even mention the Texas congressman's name. John Stewart made great sport of it on The Daily Show, just take a look.

Ron Paul was advocating something very dangerous to entrenched and vested interests, a return to the U.S. constitution, ending foreign wars and more importantly, business welfare. He obviously wouldn't be the candidate of choice for the industrial military complex, that's for sure.

But back to Barack Obama.

How did he succeed where Ron Paul failed? How was he able to break down a door that Mr. Paul couldn't budge?

It started back in 2004 with his keynote speech at the Democratic national convention in Boston. If you missed it and haven't yet viewed it...well then you're probably not a political junkie. But if you have an appreciation for great oratory, if words can inspire you and send chills down your spine, then give it a look.

It was at this point that Barack Obama became the political equivalent of a rock star. He was given this prestigious slot to help him win a seat in the United States Senate. No doubt it helped him win in Illinois, but four years later it gave him the national profile he needed for a run at presumptive Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton.

The way I see things Hillary was the establishment choice, the primaries a mere dog and pony show leading to a coronation. The problem was that Barack wasn't given a copy of the script.

Does that mean I think Barack Obama is anti-establishment? Not in the least, I think he's very much an advocate for the establishment now.  The current president has supported the same corporate welfare schemes and bail outs as his predecessor George W. Bush, has kept the Patriot Act on the books and not closed down Guantanamo Bay as he pledged (LINK).  

I do not believe Mr. Obama could have become president if he hadn't agreed to play ball with the wealthy and powerful puppet masters pulling strings beyond the curtain. Hillary would have danced to their tune as well, in fact I think her refusal to drop out of the race for so long was the result of a unwavering belief that she was 'the chosen one' of the American elites.

And from where I sit she was, until Mr. Obama came crashing through the door and demanded the opportunity to be co-opted the same way both Clintons were.

I realize this is a cynical and not too uncommon point of view among many observers of the political scene. Basically the idea is that the agenda is set behind the scenes, with politicians fighting over who will get to deliver (or sell) the pogrom to the great unwashed. Its all great sport, but all the players are all being paid by the same group. If you want to be noticed on the field, you better do as you're told. 

The question might then be asked: ''Why even bother with it, if its all basically rigged''?

Because it does matter in my opinion. There's still a piece of the pie left for Joe Six-Pack and Jane Wine-Cooler, although it seems to me that this slice is getting smaller and smaller. Sticking with the dessert analogy, imagine an apple pie (or pumpkin if you prefer) with one small slice carved out of it. That slice represents a political leader's wiggle room if you will. The rest of the pie has been spoken for.

Presidents and politicians can debate and argue over that small part, so long as the greater pie isn't touched, that big piece belongs to the elites, the behind the scene players..

My prediction for the coming US election is a Barack Obama re-election. Do I think it will be by a landslide or a nose? It doesn't matter, not in a winner take all system. Romney's role is similar to that of John Kerry or John McCain, fight hard and give us a good performance.

I will enjoy the show, but I'll put $100 on the Democrats holding onto the White House for another four years right now. Sitting as I do in the cheap seats, its all I can afford. After that, I think its Jeb Bush's ordained turn, unless someone else comes crashing through the door.

 One can only hope.

Kony 2012 - Grassroots campaign or manufactured outrage?

Disclosure, I haven't watched the Kony 2012 video.  I think I'm one of about 12 people in Canada who haven't. 

I did catch some of it on network news however, and like any person with a heart and a pulse, I was sickened.  It is unbelievable to me the atrocities that continue to take place all over the world.  And violence against children is always reprehensible.

With that being said, I was struck by something tweeted by journalist Eric Margolis back on March 8th:

Amazing coincidence. YouTube viral frenzy over horrors of Lord's Army Uganda - just after US says it will send troops to region -

Sadly Kony isn't the world's only war criminal, what that he were.  The Taliban is brutal and repressive, the Uzbeks are every bit as bad...oops, they're on our side.  Regardless, there are any number or countries that western powers, (primarily the U.S.) could police. 

But at least with the viral nature of this YouTube video, Obama has political cover should this latest foray escalate.  The fact that the U.S. is committing troops isn't really news in fact. 

Africa is a resource rich continent, and has been a battle ground for centuries.  As U.S. president Obama said recently:

"....deploying these U.S. Armed Forces furthers U.S. national security interests and foreign policy..."

All I can hope is that eventually children living in this area will be able to live in peace and security.  In many other parts of the world, they're still waiting.

Do Republicans want a religious extremist as their nominee?

The U.S. has troops in places like Afghanistan and Iraq, and numerous other countries, and there's some definite sabre rattling happening right now in the direction of Iran from some quarters.  Often times western powers are battling with religious extremists, Islamic fundamentalist with an extreme interpretation of the Muslim holy book, the Koran.

You might expect to see quotes like this from leaders in countries like Iran or from the Taliban in Afghanistan:

"This is not a political war at all. This is not a cultural war. This is a spiritual war."

Oooops, that was from Republican presidential nominee Rick Santorum.  Okay, let me cite a quote from a U.S. right-winger then.  Something which speaks to what we've come to expect from the Theo-Con camp of the GOP.

"This is a war between two willpowers: the willpower of the people and the willpower of their enemies". 

Almost sounds like it was taken from a speech by G.W. Bush himself doesn't it?  Um, oops again.   That isn't Santorum or Bush, that quote is from Iran's supreme leader, the Ayatollah. 

Ah well, that's what happens when you try to sift through extremist rhetoric, its hard to tell the opposing sides apart because...well, with religious nuts, they're all convinced they have the All Mighty's blessing. 

Think Ron Paul is nuts? Good, the MSM is doing its job...check out John Stewart

Ron Paul could easily drop out of the GOP race and coporate media would be very happy.  They've built up candidates like Rick Santorum, while working very hard at avoiding the Texas doctor and service vertran.

Don't believe me?  Check out John Stewart.  Pretty telling when Comedy Central provides more insight than major news outlets:

Americans can win back world respect by electing Ron Paul

I spent a bit of time growing up in the United States.  I attended kindergarten and grades one to three and a bit of four in NJ and all of grade six near Portland Oregon.  It is probably for that reason that I have enormous respect for our southern neighbours.  With that being said I have seen the U.S. in decline for generations now. 

Reagan, Bush, Clinton, Bush, Obama...Republicans and democrats, it doesn't matter, the slide continues. 

I wasn't born into the information age, but I've come of age during it.  I've watched journalism turn into hackery as media convergence has led to corporate ownership of almost all our media outlets.  Its not a healthy situation, in democracies like Canada and the U.S. news and information represents power and gives those owning it tremendous control.

When the United States was founded the press was free, and the marketplace of  ideas was open for business.  Such is not the case now.  We have media giants making donations to political organizations.  Does this sound 'fair and balanced' to you?

To those perhaps rolling their eyes and thinking, 'oh great, another conspiracy', don't be naive.  You would have to be incredibly naive to think that rich, powerful and influential individuals and organizations wouldn't use their wealth, power and influence to affect the results of things like elections.

You get what and who you pay for.  And as things stand right now, Ron Paul doesn't look like he's on the payroll.  And why would he be?

He advocates a return to a little thing called the U.S. constitution.  That would mean that declaring war on another nation would require an act of Congress.   Instead of just one man saying, "let's go" there could be actual debate.  War though is big business, the arms industry is massive.  If you're a company that makes billions from what Eisenhower called the military industrial complex, are you going to give a guy like Ron Paul a bigger platform to cut your profits? 

He's also for auditing and ending the Federal Reserve system.  How do you think the owners of the Fed feel about that?  Anyone who thinks the Fed is a government institution and not a privately held entity needs to do some research.  Just don't expect to see any in depth reporting on Fox News.

The United States became a beacon to the world by enshrining individual rights and freedoms.  When you hear the word liberty its hard not to think of the U.S.  But that liberty has been eroded by the badly named Patriot Act, and is still under attack with initiatives like SOPA.  Canadians should know a bit about this with the Harper government's invasive, police state style Internet legislation.

The mainstream media presents Dr. Ron Paul as something of a kook, it serves their purpose.  But younger people who are no longer tethered to MSM news are catching on.  Check out the videos they're putting out and listen to the message.  Liberty, individual rights and freedoms, a return to the constitution.  America threw off its colonial masters some 200 plus years ago in dreams of attaining freedom and liberty, its a never ending battle.  And to get back what they once had they'll have to throw off their corporate masters as well. 

Global multi-nationals don't care about the great unwashed, just a bigger and bigger bottom line.  And when their excess and poor management threatens to sink them, our elected officials toss them billions, stolen from people who can least afford it.  Corporate America isn't American, Corporate Canada isn't Canadian, they're global and they'll go wherever and wherever they can get the best return.

It wasn't always this way, and it doesn't have to stay this way.

Watch the videos:

Is the U.S. conservative movement on drugs?

I realize very well that the conservative movement in the U.S. has gone and basically co-opted the fundamentalist, born again, bible thumping, man walked with dinosaurs Christian crowd.  Fair enough, they're a great constituency to have.  They're used to doing as they're told, and they don't worry about obvious contradictions or warped logic. 

And that's a good thing for Rick Santorum, the new golden boy of the religious right. 

President Obama wants higher college enrollment in the United States.  Sounds good right?  You know, the globally competitive marketplace we now live in requires an intelligent and adaptable work force.  Unless of course you just want burger flippers and Wal-Mart greeters tossing their 10% tithes into the minimum wage collection plate. 

Ahhhhhh but wait.  Its all part of a huge left wing conspiracy.  Mr. Santorum was recently quoted saying that 62% of students who enter college and university with a faith commitment, leave without it.  Students learn to think critically, they gain knowledge, and they begin to question the religious teachings about the invisible man in the sky.  You know....God.  They become less malleable, more independent in their judgement and less easy to manipulate.  Heavens, they learn that they don't have to listen to Rush Limbaugh and some conclude that the bombastic radio host is really nothing more than a trailer park blow hard.

Conservative leaders sure don't want that. 

Thank heavens things haven't gone that far north of the border, at least not yet.  I wonder if our Prime Minister still holds to views he had back in 1997, when he said to an ultra conservative U.S. think tank:

"....your country, and particularly your conservative movement, is a light and an inspiration to people in this country and across the world".

Seems to me that "light" is running seriously low on juice. 

I'll end this entry with a YouTube clip of the late great George Carlin.  If you've had post secondary schooling you might find it amusing.  Warning, it has the (gasp) Eff word in it, but that's  Carlin :-)

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Progressive and supporting Ron Paul? How can that be?!?!

A recent post of mine, supportive of GOP presidential candidate Ron Paul, elicited a comment from Laura, the author of We Move to Canada.  An excellent blog about her experiences as an American moving to, and now living in Canada.

She directed me to a post she had written on the Texas congressman entitled: 

memo to progressives and liberals: ron paul is not your friend

Laura takes exception to Mr. Paul's extreme Libertarian politics, and many of his stances would certainly appear to be 'anti-progressive'.  Ending affirmative action being a case in point. 

I feel compelled to explain my rationale for being supportive of Ron Paul.  Before concluding that he would be the best candidate (in my seldom humble opinion) I was already aware of his big L libertarian views. 

So, how is it that someone who considers himself to be both progressive and very liberal minded...How can I support a candidate like Ron Paul? 

Allow me to explain:

Firstly, while I absolutely and without reservation embrace the term Liberal when describing my views...there is a caveat.  Fiscally speaking I am very much a conservative.  For me fiscal conservatism is the only way to ensure progressive and liberal minded government policies and programs. 

Its hard to be progressive and liberal when you're broke.  And sadly, looking at the level of debt in the U.S.  there is a strong argument to be made that they have basically reached that point.  Sure the U.S. is able to add to its Biblical debt load, much the way Homer Simpson continues to find financing for things like an RV, but that doesn't mean they're not broke.

And many Americans realize this, they know they're pooched, and they're looking for answers.  You can't turn on a U.S. newscast these days without hearing about the one percent versus the ninety nine percent, about raising taxes on the wealthiest Americans and whether or not it would help, about severe cuts to social programs. 

Missing from much of this debate is the massive amount of corporate welfare that exists, not just in the U.S. but in Canada too.  Forget about the billions thrown at poorly managed and possibly criminal financial companies in the wake of the global financial crisis.  Instead just look at the number of government departments and agencies that are set up to help the business sector.

The typical right wing conservative argument is that government has to support the corporate sector, because they're the ones creating jobs, wealth and prosperity.  I have two words for that argument, and given that I keep profanity off this blog whenever I can, they rhyme with Gull Spit.

Business in my view doesn't give a rat's posterior about the general welfare, not of their communities and not for their workers.  Business is concerned with the bottom line, that's it and that's all.  If such weren't the case we wouldn't hear stories about billion dollar companies farming out work to overseas businesses that use child labour.  We wouldn't be constantly reading about employees being exploited, hired as contract workers to avoid having to pay out any benefits....and on and on and on and on.

The business of big business is to make $$$$, nothing more and nothing less.  Wealth doesn't trickle down as has been constantly proven, it consolidates at the top.  And business knows how to lobby. They pour millions, probably billions every year into ensuring that government looks after their interests.  Politicians?  Their job is to keep the great unwashed happy while playing the shell game with us to convince us they have our best interests at heart...They don't.

And into this mess steps Ron Paul.  And while I don't like everything about him, there is one quality I admire, consistency.  Yes he's a big L libertarian who would end social programs and try to kill initiatives like affirmative action.  But he'd also endeavour to end the corporate welfare state that many would argue the U.S. has evolved into. 

You can't make the payments on your mortgage?  So sad for you.  Your billion dollar corporation is about to fail and you're looking for a taxpayer funded bailout?  Tough noogies.

Canada and the U.S. are two different countries.  Thanks to the Chrétien/Martin Liberals getting our financial house in order, we've been better able to weather the financial storms of the past few years.  But thanks to the massive deficits of the past few years, it might not be long before we're in the same shape as our American friends.

In this country we can still somewhat afford to fund both Corporate Welfare and the social safety net.  But with all the talk about spending cuts and belt tightening....How many cuts are pointed at business interests who pour billions into lobbying efforts and right wing think tanks? 

Ron Paul probably won't win, but he's definitely a man worth listening to. 

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Is the Mormon faith racist?

Ron Paul has come under some fire for newsletters bearing his name that contained racist remarks some 20 odd years ago.  The Texas congressman and Presidential hopeful has said he didn't write them or read them, and thankfully he disavows them.  Good on him.

All is fair in love and war, and certainly in politics.  Which brings me to Mitt Romney and the Mormon faith. 

Perhaps CNN  will grill Romney over the fact that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (Mormon or LDS) did not allow Americans of black African descent to be ordained into the all male priesthood until 1978. 

Let's hear what Mr. Romney has to say about LDS beliefs on race and about what is written in the Book of Mormon:

And God had caused the cursing to come upon them, yea, even a sore cursing, because of their iniquity. For behold, they had hardened their hearts against him, that they had become like unto a flint; wherefore, as they were white, and exceedingly fair and delightsome, that they might not be enticing unto my people, the Lord God did cause a skin of blackness to come upon them. And thus saith the Lord God; I will cause that they shall be loathsome unto thy people, save they shall repent of their iniquities."

With Obama in the White House maybe the GOP has written off the African-American vote entirely.  But I can't see dogma like this being a vote getter except with guys in white robes. 

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Why the media is afraid of Ron Paul

There are four candidates vying for the nomination of the Republican Party for a run at the U.S. presidency this coming November.  However, based on media coverage, some might think its a race between Mitt Romney, Rick Santorum and Newt Gingrich. 

Maine just conducted a straw poll.  And while Mitt Romney won, he only beat Ron Paul by a reported 200 votes.  Though he came in second, with Maine's convoluted system of voting in stages and then appointing delegates to the GOP convention, Ron Paul might end up winning that state. 

Big news?  Are network newscasts and CNN suddenly reporting on a surging Ron Paul campaign?

Don't count on it. 

Media ownership in the U.S. (and in many countries) is basically corporate.  And Ron Paul is not about to win rave reviews from corporate media outlets.  The man wants to audit the Federal Reserve system in the United States.  Imagine that!!!  Many Americans operate under the assumption that the Fed is government run and controlled.  They aren't aware that the Federal Reserve system is privately owned, and the owners don't want the government poking their noses into the books.

Worse still, Congressman Paul is campaigning on ending the Fed and returning to something akin to the gold standard.

I've always pulled for the underdog, and that is Ron Paul in spades.  An added benefit is that he scares the bejeeebers out of the establishment.  While Wall Street was swimming in cash in the run up to the financial crisis, this Texas congressman was warning anyone who would listen about the catastrophe to come. 

Well, some people are starting to listen now.  You'd think that kind of prophetic insight would have earned Ron Paul some kudos and media coverage, but don't hold your breath.  Corporate welfare and the cozy relationship between Wall St. and Government St. have kept this former U.S. serviceman from garnering the attention he deserves.

U.S. troops love him because he wants the military to defend the United States, and to stop acting as the world police.  Of course with our global economy, business loves U.S. foreign and military policy protecting their interests.  Meanwhile back on the home front unemployment and under-employment have become a way of life for many people.

As a Canadian on the outside looking in, its great theatre.  The United States as a country started out as the underdog, defeating the British, the world's reigning super power of the time.  I do think the U.S. can recapture its prominence and position in the world by siding with the underdog in this race, one who will return them to the constitutional ideals upon which their republic was founded.

Here's a link to the Harvard Independent and their endorsement:  CLICK HERE

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Mitt Romney...Can a Mormon become President of the U.S?

The Canadian political scene is relatively quiet now that Stephen Harper and his Conservatives have finally attained majority status.  For a political junkie that means looking south of the 49th for a fix, and let's face it...no country does politics like the United States. 

The Republican race is heating up and looks to be a two way race at the moment, with Mitt Romney and Newt Gingrich duking it out.  Interestingly it is Romney's faith which is drawing the most scrutiny, not that of Gingrich who is on his third marriage and also his third religion in Roman Catholicism. 

I know a bit about the faith of Latter Day Saints (LDS), the official name of what is commonly called the Mormon church.  My father's grandmother was a convert, and I used to play basketball with a couple of elder missionaries, and yes they tried very hard to bring me into their fold. 

While my opinion and a bus ticket will only get you a ride downtown, nonetheless I will express my view on a Mormon in the White House. 

Why not?

Religion plays a huge role in American politics these days.  One need only look back to the furor over Barack Obama's pastor, Jeremiah Wright, for proof of that fact.  And you can be certain that for many Americans, particularly evangelicals, Romney being a Mormon is a huge issue. 

Many consider the LDS faith a cult, I do not ascribe to that view.  Those who know a bit about the faith consider Mormon theology to be screwy, but then many fundamentalists think men and dinosaurs walked together on the Earth and that this planet is only 4 or 5 thousand years old....pot to kettle. 

For those who are curious, the Mormon church was started by one Joseph Smith who claims to have discovered golden plates buried somewhere around Palmyra New York.  These plates were said to have contained accounts of Jesus visiting the America's after his ascension into heaven. 

Okay, I see some shaking their heads saying...."Yeah, rigggggggggggggggght".  Fair enough.

But many of those same people also expect to see Jesus coming back some day riding on a cloud.  So if Jesus can come back riding on a cloud, why couldn't he have beamed himself down to this side of the Atlantic to preach the good news to Native Americans?

If morality is an issue I think evangelicals would find they have more in common with Romney as a lifelong Mormon than with Gingrich,  a twice divorced, three times married Lutheran/Baptist/Roman Catholic.

Say what you will about Mormon beliefs and practices, but in my experience you will never meet a more down to earth, friendly and genuinely wholesome religious community.

My own preference is to see Ron Paul win the nomination....yes, yes I know, snowball's chance.  But at least with an Obama/Paul race there would be a clear and definitive choice, big government versus almost no government. 

But if its a choice between Romney and Gingrich, I don't think Mitt's religion even warrants consideration. 

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Why is Ron Paul the Rodney Dangerfield of the GOP race?

For those following the Republican Party's nomination proceedings it must be at least somewhat curious how the second place finisher in New Hampshire gets 'no respect'. 

While I've heard the Texas congressman described by some as a 'wacko' for his Libertarian views, I would welcome a Presidential election in November between Mr.  Paul and President Obama.  For once there would be a clear and distinctive choice, Ron Paul his a  HUGE ELL Libertarian.

For those unclear on what it means to be Libertarian, do not confuse it with Liberal, nothing could be further from reality.  Liberal politicians typically  believe that government has a major role to play in running society, be it via taxes or regulations.  From our Canadian lens its obvious we don't have a Libertarian party, with the Liberals, Conservatives and NDP all arguing about how best to run BIG GOVERNMENT.

Ron Paul has been advocating for years that the U.S. federal government stop encroaching on State responsibilities like education.  Ironically, or perhaps fittingly, this is what America's founding fathers had in mind when they drafted their constitution.

Americans typically adore their constitution, sometimes with religious zeal.  So why hasn't this Texas Dr. caught on?

I think the answer is simple.  I don't expect corporate media to tout his candidacy at all, even though they're desperately searching for someone....anyone...who can challenge Romney and juice up the race.  Business interests love the current system in the U.S, as do politicians benefiting from all the lobbying and insider stock trading tips.

Politics is for me a spectator sport  much of the time, and certainly so when it involves our neighbours to the south.  Here's one hoser though who's hoping the GOP is ready for an old style truly conservative Republican candidate for President. 

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Book Review "Broken Words" Understanding the grip Neo-Cons have on evangelicals

As the author of a blog I get occasional emails asking me to review a book or promote a particular cause.  In most cases I decline, and I've never agreed to review a book before...until now.

The book I was asked to review is entitled 'Broken Words' its subtitled 'The Abuse of Science and Faith In American Politics'   and is written by Jonathan Dudley.  I quickly agreed because this is a topic I find extremely compelling, and equally vexing.  I was raised with the Christian faith, and I still consider myself an adherent, so it is with some consternation that I witness the strong level of support the U.S Republican party and Canada's Conservatives garner from people who identify themselves as Christian. 

My Christianity is about tolerance, forgiveness and helping those in need...and these are not the values I see on the right hand side of the political landscape, be it in Canada or the U.S.  

I'll dispense with traditional form and give you my recommendation up front.  I consider this an important work and very much worth reading for those interested in understanding the dichotomy between American style evangelicals and the neo-conservative right wing element of the political spectrum. 

Before reading a book as contentious as this its important to understand an author's frame of reference and his bona fides.  Mr. Dudley takes on what he calls 'The Big Four' issues:  Abortion, Homosexuality, Evolution and Environmentalism from the perspective of a person raised in the fundamentalist, evangelical Christian tradition.  Along with that perspective he brings a BS in biology from Calvin College and a MA in religion from Yale University.   

The author doesn't attack these issues, he dissects them while carefully avoiding the usual venom and hyperbole which typically dominates the debate on these issues.  With respect to abortion he often references Exodus 21 v 21-25 wherein it clearly states that a pregnant woman's life is more valuable and superior to that of an unborn child or fetus.  While many of the religious right engage in arguments that are nothing short of literary contortion in efforts to support their 'abortion is murder' view, Dudley will have none of it.  If you're going to take the Bible literally you can't pick and choose only the parts that support your agenda.

And that is his springborad to the other big issues.  Its fascinating reading to see how these issues (the other three are homosexuality, evolution and environmentalism) have been used to wed the fundamentalist/evangelical Christian community to the GOP in the United States...and as a Canadian I see distinct similarities with our Conservative Party. 

If you're looking to order this book its available on amazon.ca - LINK -

Whether you're a born again Christian looking for answers to these questions or someone like myself interested in better understanding the dynamic between Christians and Neo-Cons, then this rates as a must read in my opinion. 

FYI full disclosure.  I received zero compensation for this review aside from the book itself and I am not associated with amazon.  If you order the book here or elsewhere it doesn't matter to me one way or another. 

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The Tea Party movement - Defending the undertaxed from the overtaxed

Although the debt ceiling crisis playing out in Washington is an American concern, it is an issue with huge ramifications here in Canada and across the world. 

American historian Bernard Berenson is credited with this famous quote:

"Governments last only as long as the under taxed can defend themselves against the overtaxed". 

The wisdom of that statement is playing out right now as the U.S. rushes head long with August 2nd when they will hit their legislated debt ceiling of $14.3 trillion.  The Obama administration is putting pretty much everything on the table in terms of cuts to government and social programs to bring the debt under control.  That's the carrot for the so called Tea Party element of the Republican party, champions of the Libertarian ideal of smaller government.

The stick is increases to taxes paid by the wealthiest Americans and a closing of loop holes that allow both individuals and corporations to  avoid paying taxes they would otherwise incur.  Somehting to which Tea Party advocates are adamantly opposed. 

That is the beauty of the Tea Party movement.  America's über-rich have trailer park conservatives convinced that asking the wealthy to contribute their fair share is somehow un-American.  The argument is the affluent already do their bit by contributing to wealth creation through investment and hiring.  Increasing or requiring taxes on the wealthy will discourage investment and job creation, that's the argument being put forth.

I for one don't buy it. 

Increased taxation on those most able to afford it would likely mean lower bonuses, decreased dividends, a trimming of massive net worths for a very small percentage of those most able to afford it.  The benefits of increased taxation on millionaires  and billion dollar companies on the other hand would be enormous.

For the economy it would signal to the world that America's wealthy elite are serious about helping their government get itself on solid fiscal  footing.  But sadly I don't think the über-rich are that patriotic.  Its been said by many before me that money knows no nationality, the same can be said by those who possess it. 

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Why would anyone doubt the killing of Osama bin Laden?

So Osama bin Laden  is now officially dead, okay. 

Still there are tons of people out there who doubt the story.  Some think he's still alive and others contend he's been dead for years.  There are plenty of American citizens who doubt what their own government is telling them. 

Who can you blame them?

Oswald's magic bullet, the Gulf of Tonkin, "I am not a crook", babies tossed from incubators, weapons of mass destruction....

There's a very long list of 'disinformation' that's come out of Washington over the years, propaganda designed to push public opinion in one direction or another, and frequently at times of conflict or outright war.  They say the first casualty of war is truth, so I won't cast aspersions on anyone who doesn't lap up whatever kool-ade Washington is dispensing. 

Maybe its true, maybe not.

Of course if it isn't true, if Osama was already dead or if he's still hiding out...Why now?  Good question so here are two quick thoughts.

U.S. president Barack Obama should get a very healthy boost in approval ratings as Americans celebrate the killing of this Orwellian Emanuel Goldstein.  Its hard to see this as doing anything to hurt his chances at re-election next year.  The Republicans are just beginning to ramp up their search for their nominee in 2012.  But is anyone paying attention now?

More compelling though is what this means with regard to U.S. relations with Pakistan.  How effective with Islamabad be at limiting efforts to expand the Afghan war to neighbouring Pakistani territory?  With Pakistan's military and intelligence community being accused of colluding with bin Laden it will be difficult if not impossible for them to resist U.S. overtures for greater freedom in breaching Pakistani sovereignty.

NDP deputy leader Thomas Mulcair quickly clarified his thoughts on the matter, after leaving the impression he doubted the story.  Even if he is convinced bin Laden was killed, there are plenty of other people out there who have their doubts, and they're not all wearing tin foil.

 

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Did Sarah Palin take out Canadian citizenship?

Surfing around various Canadian blogs recently I was amazed at how many are writing about the resignation of the former GOP vice presidential candidate. Granted, as governor of Alaska, Sarah Palin is about as close to being Canadian as an American can get...but holy hockey moms!!!

Its not like there aren't events taking place here in Canada that don't warrant at least equal attention.

Many who enjoy casting Stephen Harper in a negative light were likely disappointed with the Prime Minister's moving words in eulogizing former Tory MP Dave Batters who committed suicide this past June 30th. But give credit where credit is due, Harper struck all the right chords and brings national exposure to an illness affecting many Canadians, that of anxiety and depression. The Prime Minister spoke movingly of Batters' struggle, quoting directly from the Toronto Star article:

"While we cannot understand why a loved one would act with such sudden finality, we need to know that Dave is not alone. Each year, nearly 4,000 Canadians make this same choice. Although science has made progress in understanding mental illness, "we still don't know enough about depression, and less about suicide," Harper said. Toronto Star story here.

Those preferring to cast Harper in a negative light aren't without resource however. The National Post yesterday reported on the Tory use of attack ads in Quebec. The Tories are attempting to portray the BQ as being soft on pedophiles because they voted against a bill mandating minimum sentencing for those convicted of trafficking in children.

Talk about a Dubya like, 'you're either for us or agin us' stance. Ideologues like Harper love to hide behind wedges issues like children and support for our soldiers. It sure beats meaningful debate, and it serves their political modus operandi of divide and conquer. Fortunately Canadians are smart enough to see through the obvious smoke and mirrors. Just because the Bloc doesn't want judges to lose their discretionary power in sentencing, that does not mean they're soft on punishing pedophiles.

There's always plenty happening in our country. Canadian bloggers shouldn't need to flip on CNN in seeking out topical stories to write about.

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The World Has Gone Crazy...I'm Going To Work For AIG

Is it just me or does the entire world seemed warped beyond all recognition lately? I realize that there are always things happening that don't make a lot of sense, its just that now things seem even more insane than usual. I started this blog back at the end of November for that exact reason.

You'll recall back then that Stephen Harper was busy telling Canadians that there was an attempt being made to overthrow the government. Of course the "coup d'etat" to which he was referring involved elected members of parliament from the other three parties...in other words, our government was overthrowing our government. We have a PM who equates our House of Commons to the Electoral College in the United States, and as such he thinks Canadians voted for him as Prime Minister. Sad that the leader of the party currently heading the government of Canada doesn't understand the simple basics about our democracy. About the only thing that makes sense is that many brain dead Tory supporters don't understand it any better.

That was just the start of the silliness unfortunately. Our finance minister finally crawled out from under the rock he must have been living under for the past 6 months and realized Canada was not only heading for recession, in fact we're in one. Michael Ignatieff proclaimed himself as Canada's probation officer, pledging to keep the Harper government on a short leash...but really he was just kidding. After insisting the government provide details about how it was planning to spend a $3 billion dollar "slush fund" left over from the last budget, he has since folded faster than a riverboat gambler holding a 7 high.

Now we have British MP George Galloway being told he won't be permitted to speak in Canada, a decision our heritage minister Jason Kenny says he won't interfere with. It seems Galloway made the mistake of donating ambulances and medical supplies to Palestinians living in Gaza. Gaza as most know is ruled by Hamas, so the brainiacs at the Canadian Border Services Agency decided to bar him on the basis that Hamas is listed as a terrorist organization. Hello!!! Hamas is the elected and governing authority in the Gaza territory. Does Kenny think Hamas is going to start launching rocket propelled ambulances now?

The more logical reason for barring Galloway is that he is planning to embarrass the Harper government by speaking out against our mission in Afghanistan. What's the big deal? Harper already embarrassed himself by proclaiming the war un-winnable. Does that mean we're leaving? Of course not, that would make sense. Instead we're told we need to change the definition of winning. That way when our brave soldiers continue to make their way down the 401, (appropriately called the Hi-Way of Heroes) with flags draped over their coffins, we can point to the "victory" we're achieving on the other side of the world...to make the ultimate sacrifice of our best citizens somehow seem worthwhile. Guess what Maple Leaf fans, if Stephen Harper was running the Leafs we'd all be celebrating another winning season!

And if that's not enough to leave this blogger pulling out what's left of his hair, then we have this whole global credit crisis going on.

Companies like AIG (among many others) engaged in financial transactions which were beyond ludicrous. Not only were financial institutions providing mortgage funding based on NINJA qualifications (No Income, No Job, No Assets) they then turned around and started inventing complex schemes to have this toxic debt rated "investment grade". That allowed them to peddle these toxic "assets" to pension funds and other institutional investors. The result? The near collapse of the entire global financial system.

And what's happening to the individuals found responsible for these larcenous activities? What is the punishment for bankrupting the companies for which they work? How many years will they spend in jail for decimating the retirement plans of millions? How heavy are the fines being levied for bringing the global financial system to the brink of collapse?

Punishment? Fines? Imprisonment? Pfffffffft, they're getting bonuses in the millions of dollars. The U.S. government is currently engaged in spending of Biblical proportions to keep companies like AIG afloat. But don't you worry, those responsible aren't getting off scott free. Oh no! Not by a long shot. The U.S. Congress is enacting legislation to tax back 90% of the bonus money these crooks will be receiving. So instead of getting, say a $2.5 million bonus, instead that amount will be pared all the way down to $250,000. That'll teach them for destroying the lives of ordinary hard working people...just see how long a quarter million lasts!!!

Of course these bonuses are needed, because well...they're retention bonuses. I mean these guys who seemingly did everything in their power to wreck the world's economy, well...We sure wouldn't want them quitting now would we?

I guess I'm just out of touch. I figure that if I were to engage in transactions which threatened the very survival of the company I worked for, I don't know...I somehow think I'd probably get fired. Of course destroying one company is small potatoes, these guys were building houses of cards supporting the worldwide economy. Maybe I can get a job at AIG? I'd probably get fired for being responsible.

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Obama In Canada - Whoop Dee Doo

So Barack Obama is coming to Ottawa, big deal. Canadians' hearts were all a flutter when it was announced that President Obama's first foray outside of the United States would be north of his border. That's as it should be, we are after all each other's largest trading partners. While we may not always agree with our southern neighbours, they are our closest friends and allies. With the relationship we share you'd think at least an overnighter would be warranted, but too bad so sad for us.

No state visit for little Canada, Obama will pull up to the drive-thru window long enough to grab his coffee and bagel, exchange some chit chat...then be back in Washington in time to tuck his girls into bed. I'm not suggesting this visit is totally devoid of significance, photo-ops are after all very important in this modern age. With only a couple of hours of face time between our PM and the US President I just don't see that anything of substance can be accomplished. Why not just talk on the phone until something more meaningful can be arranged?

Would it have been so bad if Canada had been shunted to the 2nd, 3rd or even 10th country that Obama will visit? Let some other countries get the drop-ins and arrange a true state visit, complete with giving us Canucks the oppourtunity to witness at least something of the event. And if Obama is too busy to be out of the US for more than just a few hours, why not have our PM spend a few days down in D.C.? Its not like Ottawa can't afford to be shut down for a few days, hell our national government was on a self imposed time-out for over a month.
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Wouldn't it be nice to see our leaders sitting down and mapping out joint strategies on the economy, on our military commitment in Afghanistan, on what to do about Omar Kadar? There are a ton of issues that need to be dealt with, any one of which cannot be truly worked upon with a whirl wind meet and greet.

Don't get me wrong here, I greatly admire the new U.S. president...in fact I consider myself a huge fan. But I'm also a patriotic Canadian and I hate seeing Ottawa being treated like a roadside diner with photos of every celebrity who stopped in for toast and coffee.

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Iran Flexing Its Muscle, Wants U.S. Apology

Iran launched its first ever satellite yesterday, an achievement which has many western nations fearing the military capability that could ensue. The timing coincides with Iran's 1979 revolution which overthrew the U.S. backed Shah. It also comes as Barack Obama is attempting to foster diplomatic negotiations in an attempt to halt Iran's alleged nuclear ambitions.

Obama, as he stated during his campaign, is willing to engage Iran in direct talks. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton is quoted as saying, "We are reaching out a hand, but the fist has to unclench". Iran however is apparently insisting that the United States, often referred to as the "Great Satan", must first apologize for past wrongs.

What wrongs has the U.S. committed against the people of Iran? A good starting point might be the overthrow of democratically elected Prime Minister Dr. Mohammed Mossadegh

Mossadegh had nationalized Iranian oilfields, which resulted in the British and American governments conspiring to overthrow the democratically elected PM in a plot code named Operation Ajax. After the successful coup the hated Shah of Iran was installed as a western friendly dictator. Mohammad Rezā Shāh Pahlavi, better known as the Shah Of Iran, was a tyrant...so much for the U.S. promoting democracy. Anyone who did not join his Rastakiz Party was a traitor.

To quote 'The Shah' directly:

"A person who does not enter the new political party and does not believe in the three cardinal principles will have only two choices. He is either an individual who belongs to an illegal organization, or is related to the outlawed Tudeh Party, or in other words a traitor. Such an individual belongs to an Iranian prison, or if he desires he can leave the country tomorrow, without even paying exit fees; he can go anywhere he likes, because he is not Iranian, he has no nation, and his activities are illegal and punishable according to the law”

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If that's not sufficient then there's the U.S. backing of Saddam Hussein when he launched an invasion against neighbouring Iran. The result was an 8 year war which is said to have killed 500,000 soldiers and civilians. There was a time when Iraq had weapons of mass destruction as well as chemical warfare agents like mustard gas, they'd been supplied by the Americans to be used against Iran.

It would seem there's plenty the U.S. should apologize for, but doing so would probably be political suicide for America's new President. Obama though could point to the apology already offered back in 2000 by then US Secretary of State Madeleine Albright during the first Clinton administration wherein she called Operation Ajax. "a setback for democratic government".

Obviously the Iranians are not about to be bullied by the west, they've already been down that road and I doubt they want to go back. They've opened their own Oil Exchange or Oil Bourse, which refuses to deal in U.S. dollars, something Iraq did just prior to being invaded.

Obviously the launch of a satellite is of concern, there are only 9 countries which have accomplished the feat. And of those 9 only Japan has not later developed missile technology.

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NY Times & Manhattan Blog Laud Ignatieff - Comparisons to Obama

I heard this on the radio yesterday, about a NY Times article on Ignatieff entitled: "Running On Book Sense And Charm" and about a popular NYC blog called gawker posting an entry with the title: "Is Michael Ignatieff Canada's Barack Obama".

The comparisons are inevitable, Canadians often use the U.S. as a measuring stick, especially with politicians. I myself couldn't resist Iggy-Obama musings back on December 10th when I posted this entry: Will Canadians Get Jiggy With Iggy

Now that we've seen far more of both Ignatieff and newly installed President Obama...I don't think the comparisons hold water at all. Barack Obama is hip and cool in ways that no 61 year old former career academic can be. On top of that Obama's speeches can send chills down my spine, his keynote address to the Democratic convention in 2004 is still one I enjoy listening to. Ignatieff is far too pragmatic and middle of the road to stir any passion. Obama is willing to stake out his ground and lead, Ignatieff strikes me as one who prefers to keep his options open while he surveys the lay of the land.

Its a function of two different cultures. Americans believe in E Pluribus Unum, or "out of many, one". Canadians though take one and make many. Despite his popularity here, I highly doubt a leader of Obama's stature could ever emerge on the Canadian political scene. Imagine Obama addressing a cross section of Canadians and trying to unite us in common purpose as he did at the 2004 DNC.

"We are one nation, one people".
Comment? Je comprends pas, il faut le dire en francais M. Obama!!!

If Obama tried to bring Canadians all together under one tent, Quebecers would say they need their own tent. After proving their constitutional right to such a tent Alberta would start muttering under her breath about how Quebec always gets preferential treatment. Obama is in favour of restricting access to Late Term Abortion, so he'd be tarred and feathered by the Pro-Choice Lobby here.
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Our political cultures are different. While American politicians are constantly talking about the divisive nature of partisan politics, we in Canada have it entrenched in our system. Newfoundland MPs wishing to vote against the Conservative budget required special dispensation from Ignatieff or ran the risk of being kicked out of the Liberal caucus, or even possibly the party.

I'd like to see more passion from our politicians, and passion combined with intellect is a winning combination. But Ignatieff strikes me as far too cautious to be passionate about anything. I think his book: "The Lesser Evil" says it all. Rather than stake out ground on principal and conviction Ignatieff prefers to seek middle ground...which actually has been the secret to Liberal success for the better part of our history.

Barack Obama he ain't.


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America's First Black President - Thomas Jefferson?

With all the focus on Obama in the news, I came across something interesting the other day. Apparently Obama may not actually be the United State's first President of colour. As everyone already knows Obama is actually of mixed racial descent, having a Caucasian mother and an African father.

Obviously though, Obama is the first visibly black President. If you're interested in seeing more but too lazy to google it yourself here's a link to the article I read in the Toronto Sun:

http://www.torontosun.com/news/columnists/mike_strobel/2009/01/21/8093571-sun.html

Hopefully we'll see a day where a person's ancestry and racial make-up is a total non-issue, not even worthy of mention in a newspaper or blog. We're not there yet, but I think we're on our way. My own children are a beautiful blend of Caucasian (my father thinks we may have some Native ancestry too) and East Indian.

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The big positive in this bit of trivial "news" is that it seems one of America's "Founding Fathers" and key contributors to the U.S. Constitution may very well be of mixed racial heritage as well. Perhaps we would do well to take the advice of Warren Beatty in his role as Senator Bullworth in the movie of the same name. If you haven't seen it, (it's awesome) the Senator is interviewed on T.V. and has this to say about race relations:

"Everyone has got to keep ####ing each other till we're all the same colour."

America may owe its foundation to the practice.

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