Open Thread: How Long Will US Be Involved in Libya?
After nearly four months of a costly military intervention in Libya to oust leader Muammar Gaddafi, little progress has been made in assuring the quick exit President Barack Obama promised in March.
With no end to the conflict in sight, either, Obama's NATO coalition looks like it could fall apart before Gaddafi's regime does.
Let us know what you think of the US involvement in Libya in the comments.
Many of the countries supporting the efforts in Libya are debt-stricken, and NATO leaders are beginning to realize that fighting at its current level cannot be sustained for much longer.
One of the major backers of the NATO coalition is France, but French Defense Minister Gerard Longuet echoed the impatience with the lack of progress in Libya on Sunday, when he called for a peaceful resolution between rebels and Gaddafi's government instead of waiting for Gaddafi's defeat.
Rebel forces have previously refused to have any such discussions before Gaddafi was out of power, and Gaddafi himself says he is not going to budge and negotiate the possibility of stepping down. Longuet is the first major NATO power to challenge the rebel forces' view.
The State Department responded that NATO forces must keep working to end Gaddafi's 41-year rule, pledging continued support from the US.
Without any results from NATO efforts in Libya, despite NATO countries funneling hundreds of millions of dollars into the effort, the split between two of the leading member countries of the NATO coalition reflects the strain of the alliance.
This Friday, the coalition will gather in Istanbul to discuss the next steps. What do you think about the continued military action in Libya? Do you think the US should stay in until Gaddafi's out, or do you think US support of Libya is beyond our responsibility?
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Comments
Is there a problem here?
Submitted by Herbster on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 11:13am.
Didn't the current occupant living in public housing at the White House tell us the "Libya campaign" would last days, not weeks or months? Are we actually doubting the word of this person? After all, isn't the current occupant a military genius? Doesn't he know more than all the generals who advised against this act of sheer stupidity?
I have a different take on this whole situation. The current occupant needs a foil, an "enemy" if you please, to distract from the continuing ruination of our country. First Mubarak - who was our ally one day and the next day he was the devil incarnate. Now it's Qadaffi. After him, it will be someone else. Once Libya settles down and Egypt holds elections, watch the Muslim Brotherhod (Who the current occupant now recognizes) rise to power.
Perry / Bachmann in '12.
You're probably right, Herbster
Submitted by Galvanic on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 12:05pm.
Unfortunately for the Commander in Chief, his advisers misread both the Libya situation and the American public's tolerance for engaging in it. The whole struggle over compliance with the War Powers Act has damaged his "brand" (to use a political/media label), and is probably far more costly to him politically than any positive Libyan outcome can restore.
Like it or not, the American people are war-weary, and they view Obama's misadventure as an additional military and financial burden they we didn't have to engage in. Instead of looking like a President in control and influential on global security, he looks extremely weak -- and that hasn't gone unnoticed by the rest of the world, including Gaddafi.
He dismissed the sound advice of both his Secretary of Defense (Gates) and Director of National Intelligence (Clapper) who warned against getting involved, and grossly miscalculated the level of effort required to achieve his goals.
If the French are indeed getting cold feet and removing Gaddafi comes off the list of goals, I think our State Department will try to paint any resulting political settlement as a total victory, reminding us of the thousands (or millions, or billions) of innocent people who would've died had we not jumped into the boiling kettle.
I believe sometime next summer, if the civil war is still raging in Libya, Obama will declare victory and go home, if the wily French don't beat him to it and leave him (and us) holding the bag.
It's Obama's war, plain and simple, and he will suffer for it.
How long?
Submitted by ricklail on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 12:11pm.
My son in law is scheduled to go to Avianno, Italy the first of September in support of this. Still don't see why they need EA-6 Prowlers there.
Good luck to your son in law, ricklail
Submitted by Galvanic on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 1:18pm.
The Prowlers are part of our "non-kinetic" operations against Libyan air defenses. Unfortunately, the EA-6B fleet is rather aged, and the more wear and tear we put on them in operations like this one, the sooner we're going to have to replace them -- added costs for Obama's Big Adventure. The production line on the A-6/EA-6 airframe ended in 1991, making the youngest unit 20 years old. The electronics have been upgraded over the years, but the airframes themselves do wear out. I believe the Marine Corps even refurbished mothballed Prowlers in the '90s to meet requirements after Desert Storm. The Nayv began replacing the Prowler with the EF/A-19 Growler, and the sooner we wear out the Prowlers, the sooner we'll have to deliver the Growlers -- adding expense.
The distance from Aviano down to Libyan airspace makes for long missions and probably several air-to-air refuelings enroute and back. I'm surprised that they haven't been flying out of the US Naval Air Facility at Sigonnella, Sicily.
The Navy has turned over all
Submitted by ricklail on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 1:43pm.
The Navy has turned over all the Prowlers to the Marines. There was an article in the paper the other day that a Colonel had flown the first Prowler was produced before it is retired.
That's interesting
Submitted by Galvanic on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 3:04pm.
Does that mean that the Navy's VAQ squadrons have received the Growlers, or did the Navy decommission the squadrons without Growlers?
I read somewhere they had but
Submitted by ricklail on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 4:22pm.
I read somewhere they had but this article seems to say differently
VAQ-133 (my 1st squadron)
Submitted by Dan Diego on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 9:32pm.
VAQ-133 (my 1st squadron) stills shows EA-6B's on their site.
When the AF retired EF-111's the EA-6B was pretty much the only assets available for ECM. Some VAQ's are assigned to "expeditionary" roles and may be classified differently than "Fleet" units.
Just a guess...
How long?
Submitted by motherbelt on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 12:12pm.
How long is a string?
It's not like the French haven't done it before
Submitted by Blonde on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 12:22pm.
*ahem*
Handy Reference Guide to Obama's Gaffes and Goofs ~ Currently Numbering 200 (and Counting)
The Truth:
Submitted by apf2 on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 2:36pm.
He so wants to destroy the US as it is, that he willing to get into another Vietnam. No clear goals, no end game, just an enemy that "we can defeat by remote control."
The Democrat (Kennedy) that started US involvement sent in a few advisers, then a few more, and a few more until we were so bogged down in the jungle swamp of Southeast Asian politics that the leftist/progressive/socialist/communist (anyone remember Jane Fonda?) ilk grew to take over the public stage. Anti-war/Anti-America demonstrations, speeches and articles were de rigueur.
Anyone that wanted to be someone was against the war and somehow it was not blamed on Kennedy and Johnson, both Democrats that started and inflated our involvement without goals or game plan. (I remember hearing General's questioning why the polirats wouldn't let them win the war--sound familiar?)
I think the Affirmative Action President is listening to Bill Ayers, who is telling him how great it was and how much progress was made when "everyone" hated what America stood for. Deja vu, anyone?
interesting theory!
Submitted by Agnostic on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 2:48pm.
If, as some believe, the Obama Administration is using the massive Federal growth via regulation, government jobs and Obama-Care in the same vein as the expansion of government under FDR that theoretically led to 50+ years of Congressional control by the Democrats then the addition of the socialist revolution shaped after the 60s social revolution would make sense. Recreating two of the major factors in US history that pushed the US towards Socialism would be quite a coup.
Not without holes but very interesting.
You may want to check
Submitted by UpNorth on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 6:18pm.
on who "started U.S. involvement" in Viet Nam. I do believe that if you check a few sites, you'll find it was actually President Eisenhower who sent the first advisors to Viet Nam.
There's more than enough to discredit O on with Libya, no one needs to try to revise the history of the Viet Nam conflict.
Advisers are much different
Submitted by Dan The Man 2 on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 6:24pm.
Advisers are much different than what happened when Kennedy sent men. We have advisers all over in various conflicts, so does that make us at war with the belligerents? How many advisers do we have in South America or other hot spot areas. You misconstrue the argument.
If that was meant for me, Dan, no, not really.
Submitted by UpNorth on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 6:53pm.
apf2 said that Kennedy started the U.S. involvement with a "few advisors, then a few more, then a few more until we were so bogged down in the jungle swamp". I pointed out that that was not the case. Did Kennedy send units? Yes, one helicopter squadron from the USMC in April 1962, but the first Army combat units were deployed in May, 1965. The first USMC battalion-sized unit deployed in March of 1965.
So, Kennedy didn't begin the wholesale escalation in combat troops that apf2 claimed he did. Johnson did, and the advisors began going to Viet Nam under Eisenhower.
The war started in 1964 when
Submitted by Dan The Man 2 on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 10:44pm.
The war started in 1964 when congress authorized force. I will plead ignorance beyond that and do not want to look it up. Tghe real question is when is a conflict escalate into a war?
The US was actually involved in Vietnam
Submitted by Jer on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 11:43pm.
in terms of providing financial aid and materiel from the time of the Truman administration, and by1954 under Eisenhower we were underwriting about 80%--if I recall correctly--of the French effort against the Viet Minh.
But, please forgive young apf. He doesn't do very well with facts and stuff.
Jer
Fast and Furiuos update
Submitted by ricklail on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 11:14am.
Not much going on right now on the Fast and Furious front that has not already been said. The only thing I see is that Media Matters said Fox was lying about porkulus funds used to fund F&F. Fox was right. By the way, I don't know why Fox doesn't file a RICO complaint against Media Matters.
I busted out of the hospital yesterday. Got to recuperate for a few days.
There were two big events held over the weekend here in the south. The gathering of the Scotish clans and Highland Games at Grandfather Mountain here in NC. We used to go there when I was a kid. I couldn't understand why men wanted to wear skirts. Since I know now of my Scotish Heritage I sure would like to have one. I have the Abernathy tartan.
Outside of the Masters, the Redneck games in Georgia could be the second largest sporting event. It rivals the GA-FL game or Auburn-Bama.
Rick, Glad to hear you’re getting better.
Submitted by Grumpy in Arizona on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 11:52am.
Wonder if they had a “Haggis Hurling” contest at the Highland games… it’s about the only thing haggis is good for… come to think about it after eating haggis – you get to participate in your own hurling-game.
Take it easy.
- Grump :o)
I remember as a kid they
Submitted by ricklail on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 12:04pm.
I remember as a kid they threw this big log. I think they called that a caber toss. Maybe able to get some footage later
Sigh...kilts...
Submitted by HelenS on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 2:48pm.
My husband and I attended the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo last year and I am here to tell you that there is NOTHING wrong with kilts! It was phenomenal and the combined bands gives you goosebumps!
Plus, one of the bands who attended was the Military Marching Band from the Citadel in South Carolina. They weren't in kilts but they sure were fun to watch and listen to!
Me - "The libs/dems of today are the Quislings of former years - the cowards who would vote a fraud into office in exchange for handouts from the devil."
Several years ago I
Submitted by ricklail on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 4:35pm.
Several years ago I discovered doing my genealogy that the Abernathys ( my mom's side) had come from Scotland. Since then I have been very intrigued about Scotland, culture and history. That is also why I am proud to be a redneck. . We are the descendants of Robert Abernathy who left Jamestown and settled in what is now Catawba and Lincoln counties here in NC. Some spell it Abernethy. My grandfather had 15 brothers and sisters. Several spelled with the a others with the e.
England forever, Scotland just a wee bit longer
Only one word about the
Submitted by Satchmo on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 11:28am.
Only one word about the entire situation: unconstitutional.
Satchmo = TROLL
Submitted by Beukeboom on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 12:49pm.
Do not feed the trolls.
OH, look Beuke,
Submitted by UpNorth on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 6:20pm.
there's another one at 2:42pm.
another word about Libya: Treachery
Submitted by lrgon on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 2:42pm.
And it's amazing how silent and pacified the anti-war Left is about Obama's expansion of Bush I and Bush II's war!
Wonder why the Code Pink
Submitted by Beukeboom on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 3:29pm.
Wonder why the Code Pink folks and others of their ilk aren't protesting as vehemently as they did when both Bush's were POTUS?
Okay, I get it...rhetorical question.
Why they are giving their
Submitted by Scuba Dude on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 3:37pm.
Why they are giving their Messiah a pass and instead protesting Israel. Hypocritical skanks.
How Long?
Submitted by Ashrak on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 11:30am.
As long as the Republican Party Establishment refuses to do its Constitutional duty to deny funding to a Executive who flouts the separation of powers stipulated by our Constitution.
Our government suffers today from a disease called a lack of responsibility. The inoculation of accountability imposed will eradicate that disease.
George Washington warned us about political factions, it is time we listen. Electing Democrats to punish Republicans didn't work and electing Republicans to punish Democrats didn't either. Another pendulum swing will solve nothing, but that is exactly what the parties are hoping we will do.
We must stop voting for Democrats, including those with an (R) behind their names, and we must start voting for those who are small 'r' republicans - that is to say - those who actually base their representative votes based on Constitutional Boundaries that bind them. Whether it be Libya or debt or inalienable rights, the answer is right there before us - stop voting for progressives how ignore the Constitution and instead vote for champions of it who will actually honor it.
Exactly correct. Why is the
Submitted by celator on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 11:46am.
Exactly correct. Why is the Speaker even in discussion with Obama on the budget? The House should (must) pass a budget it considers apropos, and move it to the Senate. The Senate can approve it or not. Whatever comes out of the conference committee can then go to Obama. Period. All this hograssling is ticking off the American people, creating huge uncertainty in the market and is very bad for the nation.
Correct
Submitted by Galvanic on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 12:13pm.
"Our government suffers today from a disease called a lack of responsibility."
Yep. Over the past few decades, "leadership" has come mean less about individuals making decisions and taking responsibility, and more about consensus and dilution of responsibility.
The Operation Fast and Furious fiasco is but one solid example. Obviously, ATF could not have undertaken this on its own. It required the coordination of several Federal departments, including the State Department due to the international aspects. Yet now that it has been exposed as a disaster, neither the Attorney General nor the President will own up to even having had knowledge of it. They are probably trying to put a case together for blaming Bush-43.
it's ridiculous like everything else
Submitted by jon_torlin on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 12:21pm.
The idea that several department heads(or cabinet heads) work together without the bogus potus being involved is ridiculous. If they did do it, the goal would have to be a coup of some kind against the bogus potus himself, and that sure ain't gonna happen.
I think there was a real coup of some sort was forcing DuhOne's hand on bin Laden who took 18 hours to dilly-dally (delay it as long as possible, wasn't any thinking involved). Panetta did just that. Now look where he is, Secretary of Defense??
I hope Issa finds some way to nail all there sorry arses to the wall.
-Jon
I see Galv grabbed the same sentence I wanted to reply to
Submitted by Blonde on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 12:28pm.
Our government suffers today from a disease called a lack of responsibility
Exactly so. While I was listening to Obama blather incessantly earlier, he said something along the lines of "let's get this done now, why should we have to take these hard votes over and over? There's only so much political capital to go around. It's not going to get easier, it's going to get harder in election season. We must eat our peas!" Win The Future????
EAT OUR PEAS.
I couldn't believe Obama actually said that today....talk about periscoping his agenda. He doesn't give a flip about the economy or the debt....all he cares about is the 2012 election. It's as clear as the nose on your face! If the republicans don't use that, they're dumber than I thought.
Time to hammer our Congressional reps again, and again, and again.
Handy Reference Guide to Obama's Gaffes and Goofs ~ Currently Numbering 200 (and Counting)
Given recent statements by Geithner and the Fed Chair, . . .
Submitted by Galvanic on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 1:14pm.
. . . Obama may be accepting the reality that the economy will not improve significantly enough by November 2012 to hoist it up on the trophy shelf. I think he is going to run against Bush-43 again and declare that the Republicans only want to return to Bush-43 years.
As one of Obama's advisers was quoted as saying (declaring?) last week, unemployment won't be the major issue in 2012 -- presumably because the White House says so. But for Americans who have lost their jobs or fear that they will, Hope & Change won't be enough.
They're out of ideas
Submitted by Blonde on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 1:33pm.
And you were spot on, he went back to the Bush bashing.
How utterly predictable.
Handy Reference Guide to Obama's Gaffes and Goofs ~ Currently Numbering 200 (and Counting)
Fighter pilots have an addage for desperation --
Submitted by Galvanic on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 3:14pm.
"Out of speed. Out of altitude. Out of bullets. Out of ideas."
Out of office. Added that
Submitted by Beukeboom on Tue, 07/12/2011 - 8:35am.
Out of office.
Added that specifically for "the annointed one."
The JournOlists
Submitted by iveseenitall on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 11:39am.
For me, it all comes down to our "liberal" press. They've taken sides and are bringing our nation to its knees. No better question to ask than "What if this had been done by President Bush?". The unprincipled press would be all over him regarding Libya, the rest of our wars, the economy and the overall pathetic social situation we are in today.
The press has a Constitutional obligation to protect America. A "free" press is the foundation of our personal liberty. Yet they not only refuse to seek the truth, they agressively push their "liberal" agenda by twisting, spinning and lying. Oh, they are outraged by the Murdoch "scandal", yet they themselves are no better, perhaps worse. And the shame is that most people know it, but are either too afraid, too selfish, or too apathetic to do anything about it. Or maybe they're just too cynical and disgusted and feel helpless (because the press and the government are so corrupt). It's a sad and dangerous situtation indeed.
NEVER,NEVER trust a "liberal" (progressive)
Why did we get involved with
Submitted by Scuba Dude on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 11:40am.
Why did we get involved with Libya? Is Odumbo trying to shake off the image of a dithering CIC? If he is it sure isn't working.
I wish that Congress had some cajones and de-funded this debacle and smack him over the head with the War Powers Act.
Why? To secure France's oil
Submitted by Satchmo on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 11:44am.
Why? To secure France's oil interests.
Satchmo = TROLL
Submitted by Beukeboom on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 12:49pm.
Do not feed the trolls.
Beukeboom hates Satchmo
Submitted by SouthJersey1953 on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 1:18pm.
Beukeboom, for the past month (or more) you have posted your inane statement following every one of Satchmo's posts. Enough already. we get it; you don't like him....(in all that time, I have not noticed any kind of "troll" statements from him – and I don’t care what he said or did months ago that started you on this foolish quest).
Give us all a break and stop filling the blog with your pasted statement; we are tired of reading it.....
Nephew
Submitted by mandrake on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 1:26pm.
Satchmo is history..try to keep up with the adults.
I'm with beukeboom.
Submitted by Free Stinker on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 1:32pm.
I'm with beukeboom. Satchmo is a Troll.
/// Sarah Palin Fan since July 11, 2007 /// خال
Thank you.
Submitted by Beukeboom on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 3:30pm.
Thank you.
Same here,
Submitted by UpNorth on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 6:25pm.
.
No
Submitted by Beukeboom on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 3:30pm.
No
Good on ya, Beuke---
Submitted by matthewdean on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 5:40pm.
You are 100% correct.
MD
'We"?, South Jersey---
Submitted by matthewdean on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 5:42pm.
You got a mouse in your pocket?
Don't presume to speak for me.
MD
Whoops. That was a big bucket of poo. And fully marked.
Submitted by The Vet on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 9:52pm.
17 signs pointing out the big bucket of poo, 5 of them stating explicityly not to step in it.
How did you, SouthJersey1953, manage to not only step in it, but somehow, and I have never ever ever seen this before, but my Gawd man, by the love of the almighty Trolljegeren above watching over us all, you appear, yes, I can't figure it out, but it appears, really, sorry, but you actually have some poo in your hair.
Clueless, and willing to talk smack on your own kind, my Lord man, what in the name of all that crawls yet never sees the light were you thinking? You can ignore a troll, you can take them head on with the truth or facts, but you never ever ever come to the aid on one while attempting to take on a fully armed trolljegeren. Have you completely lost what little sanity you had?
Sincerely,
A Veteran of a 1000 Psychic Wars many of them getting Beukeboom's back and at least 4 owing my very life to that fellow trolljegeren.
My suggestion Mr. SouthJerseyShore1953 - apologize to Mr.Beukeboom now, admit we all make mistakes and move on.
Welcome back, Sir.
Submitted by SickofLibs on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 9:56pm.
There is much work left to do.
Greetings from North Jersey:
Submitted by SickofLibs on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 10:01pm.
Incestmo is a [previously banned] troll [on work release here for some unknown reason.]
Quid pro quo
Submitted by Galvanic on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 12:19pm.
I think Sarkozy's approach to Obama was that of an IOU. Since the French have provided some forces in Afghanistan, he expected the US to provide vital support to France in Libya, and at stake was the longevity of NATO itself.
He thought we could commit and back-off quickly, achieving a cheap and easy victory that would bolster his Nobel Peace Prize while fostering an image of a decisive world leader. But he has since learned that his SECDEF and Director, National Intelligence were indeed correct when they advised him to stay out.
How long? Until we lose - that's how long!
Submitted by Grumpy in Arizona on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 11:43am.
Not for a moment am I conceding there is (or was) a legitimate reason for the U.S. to participate in “Europe’s war against Gaddafi.”
But, if there had been a legitimate reason then a prudent recourse would have been to strike fast, strike hard, and cut-off-the-head of the serpent. It’s like trying to scare a wolf away from your henhouse… Scare tactics don’t work and you can’t “pressure” the wolf into becoming anything other than what it is… a wolf. Kill the wolf and you solve the problem at least until another comes along to take its place… and just kill that one too.
Now I’m not advocating for “death and destruction” as the first option in International affairs, but I am suggesting there is a point when it becomes obvious that the adversaries we attempt to bring into the fold of civilized nations just do not want to find a reasonable (not perfect – but reasonable) solution. Our relations with Gaddafi had not reached that point when the Supreme Mullah of the United States (SMOTUS (potus)) illegally decided to help with the European intervention against Libya.
So my suggestion is for Congress to stop acting like wimps and either give full authority to the U.S. Military to go in and clean-out the nest of vipers in both Libya and Egypt or demand that all operations and support for this NATO adventure cease forthwith.
- Grump
Anyone listening to Obama's blather?
Submitted by Blonde on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 11:44am.
I think Boehner may have backed him into a corner.
He was paraphrasing Paul Ryan a few minutes ago. He knows he's in the toaster, set on Bagel crispy right now.
Handy Reference Guide to Obama's Gaffes and Goofs ~ Currently Numbering 200 (and Counting)
How long is he going to try
Submitted by ThisnThat on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 11:58am.
How long is he going to try to milk this "corporate jets" angle?
And how much more time has to pass before the Repubs nail him on it and point out all the jobs that are going to be lost, and another industry bites the dust, just like the evil "luxury yachts"?
__________
“Didn't win the Medal of Honor? Didn't even serve? Then lie about it. We'll support you." — 9th Circuit Court
Corporate Jets...Luxury Yachts
Submitted by Blonde on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 12:36pm.
Having been on the receiving end of the "luxury yacht" debacle, I can tell you it's a total loser as an issue.
But just to give you a little free ammo, I did the math on Obama's corporate jet tax idea, in a way that even a first grader would understand. If the $14 trillion dollar debt was $1,000, Obama's brilliant idea would save 7.5 cents per year!! At the end of ten years, he'd have repaid 75 cents of the total debt, and we'd still owe $999.25. Pretty brilliant....NOT!
Now he's mad at hedge fund managers and best selling authors (say hello Ann Coulter).
I think I smell the toast burning.
Handy Reference Guide to Obama's Gaffes and Goofs ~ Currently Numbering 200 (and Counting)
"in a way that even a first
Submitted by ThisnThat on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 8:58pm.
"in a way that even a first grader would understand."
If o'bama has 1st grader skills, I've yet to notice it.
__________
“Didn't win the Medal of Honor? Didn't even serve? Then lie about it. We'll support you." — 9th Circuit Court
Sort of....
Submitted by Red Jeep on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 11:59am.
I tuned out when he started his it's either this of cut vital services....
Oldest political trick in the book. Whenever there is a budget problem cut vital (important) services. School in trouble, well pay more taxes or we will cut the number of teachers. Fire department having money woes, we must cut services unless we get more tax money, etc.
Start closing down a few useless departments of this and that.....
The town selectmen at town
Submitted by celator on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 12:10pm.
The town selectmen at town hall meetings I've attended always use this same excuse. "Won't let us raise taxes? Well we'll have to cut out nutritional programs for the elderly and the high school football team. Is that what you want?"
Our response usually was, "You figure out how to cut costs or we'll find someone who can." They found a way to cut costs. I've seen it happen a dozen times.
Great response.
Submitted by Red Jeep on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 12:19pm.
Let's hope that that was the message Republicans got from the Nov. elections last year.
Blonde - Can you provide a link or tell us where you heard it?
Submitted by Grumpy in Arizona on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 12:04pm.
Thanks, and have a great week!
- Grump :o)
Fox News
Submitted by Red Jeep on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 12:08pm.
.
Yeah, it was a dumb question... (lol)
Submitted by Grumpy in Arizona on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 12:17pm.
Should have known.
- Grump :o)
Yes, if it's before noon
Submitted by Blonde on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 12:39pm.
....I'm either tuned into Fox or Food Network.
I'm sure the transcripts will be available shortly (jaw dropping arrogance on display by Obama)...or maybe even the whole thing is available online (try CSPAN).
Handy Reference Guide to Obama's Gaffes and Goofs ~ Currently Numbering 200 (and Counting)
Here you go, Grump
Submitted by Blonde on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 12:48pm.
Eat our peas.
"I will not sign a 30-day or a 60-day or a 90-day extension. That is just not an acceptable approach. And if we think it's hard now, imagine how these guys are going to be thinking six months from now in the middle of election season when they are all up. It's not going to get easier, it's going to get harder. So, we might as well do it now. Pull off the band-aid. Eat our peas. Now is the time to do it. If not now, when? We keep on talking about this stuff, and we have these high-minded pronouncements about how we've got to get control of the deficit, how we owe it to our children and our grandchildren. Well, let's step up. Let's do it," President Obama said at his press conference today.
(that was one time he talked about "how hard" this was...the other time he blabbed about taking "hard votes" and "political capital".
Handy Reference Guide to Obama's Gaffes and Goofs ~ Currently Numbering 200 (and Counting)
Thanks Blonde!
Submitted by Grumpy in Arizona on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 1:00pm.
“Pull off the band-aid. Eat our peas. Now is the time to do it. If not now, when? “ - B.O.
It reads just as stupidly as it probably sounded. Thank goodness he’s a genius !(sarc.)
- Grump :o)
De Nada, Grump
Submitted by Blonde on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 1:05pm.
I'm thinking the "eat our peas" line needs to go into the Obama Gaffe pantheon.
Because if that's the best metaphor he can come up with for doing his own job, I think Halperin got it wrong about which nether part belongs to be hung on Obama.
Handy Reference Guide to Obama's Gaffes and Goofs ~ Currently Numbering 200 (and Counting)
Blonde... (LOL)!
Submitted by Grumpy in Arizona on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 1:28pm.
“Because if that's the best metaphor he can come up with…”
Agreed!
Here’s a great quote regarding Obama’s budget vision :
- "I have no faith in political arithmetic." - Adam Smith
- Grump :o)
→ Let them eat scabs!
Submitted by Cool Arrow on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 2:12pm.
Barry Antoinette with a new twist on an old adage.
Pull off the bandaid and eat the scab!
That's his Union Slogan, CA
Submitted by Blonde on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 2:59pm.
Sheesh, keep it straight, would ya?
Handy Reference Guide to Obama's Gaffes and Goofs ~ Currently Numbering 200 (and Counting)
Is that sort of like the
Submitted by Beukeboom on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 3:50pm.
Is that sort of like the "Visualize Whirled Peas" bumper stickers that crop up from time to time?
He won't sign a 90-day extension
Submitted by bkeyser on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 1:29pm.
-though I don't think anyone was suggesting one. The House GOP is preparing (I heard) a one-to-one scenario that would reduce spending by the same amount the debt limit is raised with a new ceiling about $1T more than it's current level. This would likely run out in about a year or so, coincidentally, right in the middle of the general election campaign. That's why Obama won't sign a "short-term" deal; he can't have this argument again this time next year.
I was out shooting some grades today (Dave) and was listening to Beck on the way back- having forgotten that Barry was getting in front of a microphone again today. I remembered just in time to hear his last answer (though not the question.) I'm driving home, laughing out loud at this simpleton. He basically said his plan is to stabilize the groundwork; take the uncertainty away from businesses who are worried about the debt limit (and apparently not hiring because of that) and then! once he's got his new debt ceiling, then! he'll invest heavily in [shovel-ready] infrastructure. In other words what he's asking Boehner to do is 1) agree to raise the debt limit by 2) cutting spending largely in defense and red states, without 3) entitlement reform or 4) tax reform, and then 5) once the economy recovers (presumably sometime in his 4th or 5th term in office) invest in fixing pot holes (Stim II). Sounds like a plan. -By the way, I challenge any liberal to dispute the policy I've laid out here as fact. (Picking on the 4th or 5th term sarcasm is pure fail.)
How the collective press didn't bust a gut to that I'll never know. --Okay, I do know. But how they didn't snicker at the brash ideology on display... that, I don't know. Incompetence is being redefined on a daily basis by this economic ignoramus.
OMO BK!
Submitted by Blonde on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 1:47pm.
As I'm reading your comment Rush is replaying his "Stimulus V.X.X." plan.
Obama is an idiot, pure and simple. I only wish he could be made to understand how utterly stupid he sounds.
I was happy to hear John Boehner's "response". He not only is on the right track, he sounds like "the grown-up in the room".....I guess he was the one who told Barry to "eat his peas". LOL.
P.S. I wrote an e-mail to John Boehner...."hold the line, no compromise! KthxBye"....I'd suggest everyone here do the same. It can't hurt.
Handy Reference Guide to Obama's Gaffes and Goofs ~ Currently Numbering 200 (and Counting)
Who knows?
Submitted by jon_torlin on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 11:48am.
Who knows how long it'll be? The Republicans in Congress sure don't know. They had the guts to condemn it but not the guts to defund it. Congress and the Senate has the ability to bring impeachment charges against the bogus potus but despite even some dems complaining about it, they won't do it.
And now the bogus potus is saying it's time for the Yemeni President to go. This is Egypt part 2.
Yemen President
How long before he starts doing humanitarian missions there? Oh wait, he's doing drone attacks, right?
This is a patently absurd and ridiculous situation that this country is in.
-Jon
Anyone see this farce of a news conf today?
Submitted by ThisnThat on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 11:54am.
o'bama bashing republicans again. He must be in deep do-do. So far, he's tried to separate Boehner from "evil republicans" -- the ones supporting millionaires and billionaires; he's making a special appeal to progressives; and he's even gone so far as to call upon favorable "reporters", including one who said: "Mr President, the $4T is divided into $3.2 cuts, and $800B 'revenue', and I don't think that's fair. Do you?"
And finally, he's taking credit for doing great things. Snatching the economy from the "Great Depression". Saving millions of jobs -- before he caught himself, and corrected that statement to "adding lots of jobs" - LOL. Strictly focused on "helping average Americans". And he even is saying that the jobs issue is only with us because of all the other 'savings' work that his administration has worked on the past 3 years.
His press conference was simply a rambling, incoherent, fact-challanged, name-calling infomerical, and has made me mad as hell!
__________
“Didn't win the Medal of Honor? Didn't even serve? Then lie about it. We'll support you." — 9th Circuit Court
Really?
Submitted by jon_torlin on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 12:15pm.
Is there any other kind when it comes to this charlatan?
Come on, take off the bandage, eat our peas, whiskey tango foxtrot??
There's got to be a new kind of syndrome to be named anytime someone sees the Dick-tator-in-chief on TV becomes instantly sick with the strong urge to either hurl(regurgitate for those of you in Rio Linda) or go into something similar to Tourette's where one goes into a profanity-laced tirade. I've been having that happen to me a lot lately.
I can't believe that people are going to believe his nonsense "time to do something meaningful."
And I'm even more sick of the MSM touting that line.
-Jon
I don't suffer from that syndrome because I employ the
Submitted by virginia republican on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 12:35pm.
easily available preventative measure of turning off the damned TV (or switching channels/putting in a DVD) whenever that snake oil salesman appears on the tube. It does wonders for one's blood pressure as well. Try it, you'll see.
If I was at home, yeah
Submitted by jon_torlin on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 1:44pm.
It would be easy enough. I'm at work and we have these TVs going all the time.
So I just have to walk out of the room.
-Jon
Jon, you're sorely testing my ability here
Submitted by Blonde on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 12:41pm.
Trying to keep you on an even keel and whatnot!
I think the only real solution will occur in November 2012.
Handy Reference Guide to Obama's Gaffes and Goofs ~ Currently Numbering 200 (and Counting)
Nah, it's cool
Submitted by jon_torlin on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 1:42pm.
This isn't the doldrums of depression or anything, this is my sarcasm at work in regards to these frauds.
It's getting too easy to make fun of this crap sometimes, especially after the nonsensical ramblings he gave today.
-Jon
Jon, Obama is playing the American people for fools...
Submitted by Dave. on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 1:05pm.
And so far, the bulk of the stoopid zombie sheeple dumbMasses have been going right along with him.
While he merely pretends to, they continue to believe Obama is trying to "fix" our financial and economic woes, even as he continues to do all he can to undermine both right uder their noses.
-Dave
Vote for the American in November
→ Dave, enough of them are!
Submitted by Cool Arrow on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 1:13pm.
Obama's economic plan creates new beggars with each passing day.
His press conference was
Submitted by Scuba Dude on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 12:28pm.
His press conference was simply a rambling, incoherent, fact-challanged, name-calling infomerical
Now just imagine him in a debate with against a Republican candidate who knows the truth. Will we see the steam come out of his ears when they get lectured on how the real world works? Remember the look he gave Netenyahu? Oh what I wouldn't give to see him thoroughly trashed in a debate and he walks off the stage in a huff.
Not a Banana Republic, really??
Submitted by jon_torlin on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 11:56am.
Oh looky here, the Dictator in Chief is saying America's not a Banana Republic, oh really?
Banana Republic
Don't forget, whatever he says is the exact opposite of the truth in most cases. Other times it's just half-lies and more lies with a dash of lies.
-Jon
Banana Republic?
Submitted by ricklail on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 12:07pm.
Kind of like a rat calling a possum a long tailed a-hole.
It will be when he finishes with it
Submitted by Dave. on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 1:18pm.
-Dave
Vote for the American in November
delete
Submitted by motherbelt on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 12:13pm.
delete
Obama - Take the Credit, Refuse the Blame
Submitted by ledurchi on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 12:13pm.
IF the attempted coup against Gaddafi is abandoned, will Obama take responsibility for the inevitable slaughter of rebels and innocent bystanders when Gaddafi regroups? Or will that just be an “Oops, my bad” footnote to history?
IF the coup against Gaddafi is successful and results in the death of same, will Obama emphasize a policy directing that any islamofacist takeover of the Libyan government will invite the same response - death to its leadership. Or is one murderous, tyrannical rule more acceptable than another?
To totalitarian Third World governments, Obama is . . .
Submitted by Galvanic on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 12:44pm.
. . . verifying what they've believed all along: If you don't possess nuclear weapons, the US will get you.
Rather than allaying those beliefs, Obama's selection of Gaddafi over a far greater regional threat like, say, Kim Chong-il, merely reinforces those beliefs.
And let's say that NATO gets lucky and kills Gaddafi. Who is going to make the investment in reparing the physical damage we've inflicted on Libya? France? Hah. The EU? Not likely, since Germany and Italy are not enthusiastic supporters of the operation, and the EU has its own fiscal nightmare to contend with.
The Arab League? Fa-getta-boudit.
China? Whoa! Can you imagine the political fall-out from expending $ billions so that in the end, the PRC becomes the primary influence in Libya?
No. It will be the US, borrowing more $$$ from China to hand to Libyans of undetermined ideology.
In the eyes of O,
Submitted by UpNorth on Tue, 07/12/2011 - 10:30am.
the murderous, tyrannical rule of the Muslim Brotherhood is much preferable to that of Khaddafi the duck.
Obama pees on America and
Submitted by Jack Bauer on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 12:36pm.
Obama pees on America and thinks he can convince citizens it's raining.
Barack Antoinette Obama -- "Let them eat Pee-Cake."
All of the above Mr Obama? --- How about ALL OF THE BELOW, instead.
...complex place with a dizzying amount of diversity...
Submitted by upcountrywater on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 1:04pm.
Yippee two thumbs off, a new country!
.....one of the biggest humanitarian advocacy projects ....
Mr. Clooney, who got malaria the last time he was in Sudan, was not expected for the festivities on Saturday.
You Didn't Build That.
Libya?
Submitted by Prester John on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 3:33pm.
A farce,
A waste of time, effort, and money,
And if BHO were a Republican, an impeachable offense.
"Stupid people are ruining America"
Herman Cain 2012
Open answer
Submitted by CobraMan on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 1:50pm.
Open Question: How long will we be involved in Libya? Until 6 months before the next general election in 2012. Obama can't afford to be accused of creating another Vietnam, as his opponents are sure to claim. He'll end the "US involvement in the NATO conflict" just when it is the most politically expedient time for him.
The Citizens of each State shall be entitled to all Privileges and Immunities of Citizens in the several States. The US Constitution
Unless you're a fetus. The US Supreme Court
Or Anwar al-Awlaki.
WHITE HOUSE WASTREL
Submitted by ricklail on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 2:07pm.
In yesterday's paper in the online commentd to the letters one of regulars used the phrase White House Wastrel. I think it fits perfectly.
one who expends resources foolishly and self-indulgently : profligate: wildly extravagant <profligate spending>
Synonyms: extravagant, high-rolling, prodigal, spendthrift, squandering, thriftless, unthrifty, wasteful
We'll be in Libya until the "moderate" Col. Daffy is ousted...
Submitted by Dave. on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 2:12pm.
...in favor of a Muslim Brotherhood-approved, true-believing rabid Israel-hater.
-Dave
Vote for the American in November
Sports news: Bad news for the Dawgs
Submitted by ricklail on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 2:19pm.
Caleb King, Georgia running back, has been declared academically ineligible for the season. This leaves the Dawgs with an untested freshman at tailback. This is a make or break it season for Mark Richt. If he don't win he will be in the unemployment line. He is a nice guy but this is big time college football
Mike Vrabel, former Patriot and current Chief, is retiring and will return to Ohio State to be an assistant. The NCAA hammer has yet to fall on OSU so don't expect to see them in any bowls or the Big Ten championship game. This could be worst than what happened to USC.
52 more days until FOOTBALL.
rick,
Submitted by Dave. on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 2:27pm.
I hate to say it, but I think my Dawgs are is serious trouble.
And you're right about Richt, as he has one more season to prove himself, and that is going to be very difficult given the circumstances.
-Dave
Vote for the American in November
While I was laid up I
Submitted by ricklail on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 4:53pm.
While I was laid up I listened to a lot of ESPN and Fox Sports radio. According to the talking heads on those networks they would go ahead and hand the Heisman to Andrew Luck today.
All may not be lost for the Dawgs. One of the writers for the Urinal and Constipation was on Sirius College Football channel yesterday. He is not writing them off. He is really high on the freshman TB. Can't remember his name.
In honor of the White House Wastel's peas remark
Submitted by ricklail on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 5:03pm.
My favorite pea song. Eating Gobber Peas. Ok. I know it is about peanuts but all the same it is about peas. The wastel didn't really say which kind of peas.
Hey Rick...this is interesting
Submitted by Blonde on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 3:09pm.
Although the Bammers won't like it.
I have to laugh...you think we have trolls here? You should see it over on the Gator Boards....the scUM & scUTs are involved in a big circle jerk....with a soupcon of Clowns in the mix. It's hilarious, and stupid.
Here's a good one...scUM's new slogan is "Deserve Victory"....yeah, right...because they can't cheat too much any more, boo hoo.
Mark Richt is toast, but take heart Dave....you can always steal the baby Dooley D2 from the Vollies. Of course that will leave them with their (in their eyes, sorry inside joke) "projected 2013 #1 draft pick", Stick Boy Bray. I wish they'd put spew alerts on the troll posts. We play them in The Swamp this year and we're already getting the great proclamations of a wipe-out....tis to laugh. Even if Florida sucks worse than we did last year, there is no way we lose to D2 & GayStarBray in our house. Que'lle Clown (he should have gone to SOW).
If you're not a Gator, you're GATOR BAIT!
Handy Reference Guide to Obama's Gaffes and Goofs ~ Currently Numbering 200 (and Counting)
The respiratory therapist
Submitted by ricklail on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 4:46pm.
The respiratory therapist that gave me my breathing treatments at nights husband was a big scUM fan. I told her about you and even though you lived in Miami you could not stand them. She said that he hated the Criminoles but didn't really talk bad about the Gators.
Peas?
Submitted by bkeyser on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 3:09pm.
Or lemons?
Now there's an idea
Submitted by jon_torlin on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 3:17pm.
That's a practicing cannibal, one lemon eating another.
-Jon
Good one, bk---
Submitted by matthewdean on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 5:58pm.
A lemon a day keeps a sense of responsibility away.
MD
The Three Amigos starring in
Submitted by ricklail on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 7:57pm.
Operation Gunrunner
I'd say this pic is more
Submitted by Dan Diego on Mon, 07/11/2011 - 10:07pm.
I'd say this pic is more suited, a black guy, a black/white guy & Janet.