AP writer Douglass Daniel was enjoying the moderate Republican (and Obama Republican) response to conservatives on the Sunday talk shows. His story began:
Moderate Republicans to conservative Republicans: Turn down the volume — especially on Rush Limbaugh — and open your minds. The party's future might be at stake.
Such warnings about the GOP's right wing, along with finger wagging about a "shrill" and "judgmental" tone, marked the moderate response in the latest back-and-forth within the Republican Party.
Those words turned out to be former governor Tom Ridge’s on CNN’s State of the Union. (That's funny -- they were also Barack Obama's words to congressional Republicans.) Daniel also quoted Obamacan Colin Powell, Newt Gingrich, and Karl Rove, but led his story with the Ridge attack on Rush Limbaugh:
Ridge, an abortion-rights supporter who was on McCain's short list of vice presidential picks but deemed too moderate by more conservative elements of the GOP, said he thinks "a lot of our commentators are being shrill."
"Rush Limbaugh has an audience of 20 million people. A lot of people listen daily to him and live by every word. But words mean things and how you use words is very important," Ridge said. "It does get the base all fired up and he's got a strong following. But personally, if he would listen to me, and I doubt if he would, the notion is express yourselves but let's respect others' opinions and let's not be divisive."
AP never gets the memo that an "abortion rights supporter" could easily be defined as a "liberal." Calling them "moderate" can be misleading, at least on the abortion issue. Ridge also said if the GOP wants "to restore itself, not as a regional party, but as a national party, we have to be far less judgmental about disagreements within the party and far more judgmental about our disagreement with our friends on the other side of the aisle."
Daniel quoted Rove heading off the shut-up-Rush elements:
"I don't like this thing where people — and Powell is one them — who said, `Rush Limbaugh, shut up.' We believe, as Republicans in the marketplace of ideas. Let that marketplace decide," Rove said.
"I want Colin Powell to go out there and lay out his vision, and then I want him to back it up by finding people who share it and working like heck to get them — and that's how you win the party."
—Tim Graham is Director of Media Analysis at the Media Research Center.
Editor at Large
Comments Policy
the notion is express
May 25, 2009 - 07:18 ET by motherbeltthe notion is express yourselves but let's respect others' opinions and let's not be divisive." -Ridge
Good grief!
How do you have opposing opinions, even if being respectful, without being divisive?
That's the liberal argument: let's agree to disagree, while we do it our way.
I didn't think it was physically possible, but this both sucks and blows. -Bart Simpson
Division
May 25, 2009 - 13:00 ET by KC MulvilleFor eight years, moderates said nothing. Now, all of a sudden, the moderates are out there whining about being attacked for their beliefs.
Wait a minute.
The media portrays this as a conservative purge. Nah. Liberal Republicans are seizing the opportunity to try and wedge out conservatives. See how they're playing this game. They all run to the media, and whine that the party needs to become more liberal. They're justifying this on the shaky idea that America is turning liberal, and therefore the party needs to become more liberal.
I seriously doubt that's true. Why? Two possibilities:
What makes someone a Republican? Karl Rove said that if you call yourself a Republican, you're a Republican. Which means, of course, that the word is without any content. As I said before, a party is just a bunch of people who are willing to put up with one another long enough to win an election. It has nothing to do with ideas. It's completely ad hoc.
So please, let's knock it off with the "ideas" nonsense. That's just a liberal rhetorical staple, where liberals are trying to subvert their opposition.
Powell The Putz
May 25, 2009 - 14:07 ET by j17ghsYup, those who don't want a return to the feudal era of lords and ladies impovershing and oppressing the kingdom's serfs is obviously not "progressive." If the American public is really as duped and stupid as Powell The Putz seems to think, then we are doomed.
We don't want any lightweights in the GOP
May 25, 2009 - 07:21 ET by WorriedWe lost this last election because a "moderate" Republican AKA RINO was picked in the primaries.
Tom Ridge and Colin Powell are Democrats. They don't speak for for me.
Rush Limbaugh and Dick Cheney speak for me because they are Americans first. The RINOs should get out of the GOP and do want Spector the Traitor did - sign up as a Democrat.
GOD BLESS THOSE WHO GAVE THE ULTIMATE SACRIFICE SO WE CAN LIVE FREE.
GOD SAVE US FROM THOSE WHO WANT TO TAKE OUR FREEDOM AWAY AND TO HAVE THOSE WHO GAVE THE ULTIMATE SACRIFICE DIE FOR NOTHING.
and also...
May 25, 2009 - 09:00 ET by i was just thinkingWe ran a stodgy old boring guy against a glitzy, gifted, articulate (and clean!) guy. Dole vs. Clinton, The Sequel.
Once I knew they were the 2 candidates, my gut told me that McCain didn't stand a chance. He was, apart from his RINO views, an extremely weak candidate.
A "moderate" RINO isn't a real conservative
May 25, 2009 - 10:12 ET by MozillaA "moderate" doesn't agree with the conservative principals therefore he won't do the right things in office. He will do all the things that will make Republicans look bad. John McCain and his illk wanted to grow government as much as Obama and supported the bailouts. Don't give me this junk that because McCain said some line about generational theft and then voted against the stimulus he was conservative. Whatever the reason for that was, when the chips were down he could have voted against Bush's bailout but he supported it and said so in the next debate. He was no opposition to Obama because he agreed so much with him. He is a fool. Both parties want to support the same agenda with moderates on board the Republican party. Buch of losers. So then the left is right when they say the right did same things they are doing because they did. Republicans need to oppose the president and stand up for conservative principals. No more of the B.S. passing off as Republican but acting like Democrats.
But they are right, the
May 25, 2009 - 07:46 ET by RowaneBut they are right, the future of the party does depend on it. If the conservatives don't get rid of the RINOs the Republican party is as good as dead (especially to me)
AP loves RINOs
May 26, 2009 - 20:47 ET by Sergeant ROCKIndeed. Though, I want to thank the AP for identifying the RINOs for us. For once, they are actually presenting something newsworthy.
"I ask, Sir, what is the militia? It is the whole people. To disarm the people is the best and most effectual way to enslave them."
George Mason
That is so true
May 26, 2009 - 20:59 ET by general companyand sad,,,,, it hurts
My Gov. thinks I am dangerous, so be careful
"Television is a freak show" Bernie Goldberg
I'm waiting for a Third
May 25, 2009 - 07:48 ET by SharkGirlI'm waiting for a Third Party to organize well enough to oust both
the Republican and Democrats. I can't stand either one of them.
I
can't stand even the Conservative Republicans because they still walk
the fence, too cowardly to stand up for God ALL THE TIME. They are
just as responsible for trashing God and our Constitution as the
Democrats are.
Even if there are God-fearing men and women in
Congress, they have yet to take a stand against the evil; therefore,
they are fearing man over God and have no business being in Congress.
The
laws being passed that violate God's laws and our freedom are simply
because Americans allow it. Who are these people to dictate to us that
God has no place in America, in government and in law? They dictate to
us that their athiest ways are the forced religion in our land, yet
they themselves don't separate church and state and push their secular
religion on people.
There is no Republican Party. They are all
anti-Christ in their actions. I don't care what they call themselves.
It's just a label but they don't speak for God anymore.
SharkGirl
http://facingtheshar...
A non-lawyer vs. lots of lawyers
I share your views
May 25, 2009 - 08:03 ET by Worriedhowever, come 2010 if you don't vote Republican then Obama and his goon squad will be able to continue their destroying of the nation. We can build a new party after 2010, but if you vote only on principal, like too many did in 2008, Obama wins again.
That's the honest truth.
And walk a fence?
May 25, 2009 - 09:23 ET by SharkGirlI disagree with you. If I go and vote Republican, just to push
Obama out, then I, too, will be walking the fence with the cowards in
Congress and not standing up for what I believe in. I believe in God,
first, and then country.
If I vote for an anti-Christ party
(Republicans) just to oust another anti-Christ party (Democrats) what
did I do? I STILL voted for an anti-Christ party. You see what I mean
by standing on a fence too afraid to jump on one side or another?
I'm
not going to vote for one evil to get rid of another evil. I'm going
to vote for whomever fears God. Sorry if any American sees me as
throwing my vote away. I see it as being a responsible child of God
that votes for another responsible child of God to be our leader. I
will only have to answer to God for my vote, not the American people.
Too
bad all the people that want to vote Republican to pick the lesser of
two evils can't just form another party and combine their votes.
As for the Constitution Party, they too are walking the fence
and arguing amonsts themselves about how to deal with God. Give me a
break! There is no dealing with Him, or watering down His ways to
appeal to the majority. Either you are for Him or against Him.
I
hear it from the legal groups out there that pro se litigants are
frowned on because they see things in black and white, right or wrong,
and no gray area. I wear that label proudly. God says he would rather
us be cold or hot, but if we are lukewarm, He will spew us out. Sounds
like black or white to me, and no gray areas with Him.
SharkGirl
http://facingtheshar...
A non-lawyer vs. lots of lawyers
Can you tell me Sharkgirl
May 25, 2009 - 09:40 ET by shawn228how does God's rules apply to law?. Not including abortion, what do you mean? ie sodomy laws, anti decency laws.
Even though this country is built on Christian principles, I thought people came to this great land to escape religious persecution.
He had my vote
Well said, Sharkgirl. I'm
May 25, 2009 - 09:45 ET by misterbee241Well said, Sharkgirl. I'm with you. For God, Country, Family.
"I dont need to read a newspaper to know the world's been shaved by a drunken barber."
Walter Brennan, The Colonel, Meet John Doe, 1941
here's an option...
May 25, 2009 - 09:50 ET by i was just thinking1. In 2012, vote the Obamessiah out by electing a Republican.
2. While you're doing that, begin laying the groundwork for the independent conservative movement.
3. In 2016, vote out the Republican and replace him with the conservative.
PRIORITY ONE: GET OBAMA ET AL OUT!
While I certainly appreciate your morals & ferver to help get
May 25, 2009 - 12:51 ET by pahuberthis country back on track please consider that we are still living in a secular representative republic.
This is not a Theocracy & should never become one. Israel was the
only Gov't that was chosen to be so... as much as I agree with your
moral stance I would just like to say that this world is a fallen world
& will remain such until He returns to rule.
Until then we can at least try to pick the best plausible candidate
by voting shrewdly and wisely before God. You will never be able to
find a perfect candidate to vote for if you look deep enough within
each person as there will always be something to disapoint you.
God bless you & all here at NewsBusters on this sacred day.
Fine
May 25, 2009 - 09:41 ET by misterbee241Fine. Let him win again. Maybe there is a conservative with conservative values out there who will step up to the plate. A second Obama term may be just the bitter medicine needed for this country.
Just remember there is nothing in the middle of the road except a yellow stripe. And occasionally a dead skunk. And i'm not going to vote republican "just because."
"I dont need to read a newspaper to know the world's been shaved by a drunken barber."
Walter Brennan, The Colonel, Meet John Doe, 1941
I understand your passion SharkGirl...
May 25, 2009 - 08:13 ET by BKeyserhowever, I'm for a third party, a Conservative Party, but based solely on Conservative Politics. Small, non-invasive government, minimal taxes, business- and employee-friendly, and one strong on national defense and legal immigration. I personally wouldn't care about religious affiliation or sexual orientation; only that members stay true to it's underlying political principles.
I believe that most people with a high moral compass achieve that through a belief and faith in something must greater than themselves and it is therefore likely that my Conservative Party would be largely "staffed" by God-fearing, morally-strong individuals like yourself, all serving to keep and protect or declining values and way of life. I'm for inclusion, but including like-minded political values and a steadfast adherance to them, even when not currently popular.
Of course, this would require a long-term outlook as in the short term, the Conservative Party would continue to divide only the GOP vote, ensuring even greater margins for Democrats in near-term elections. But the damage they do will eventually wake people, and educate them politically, driving them to increasingly conservative viewpoints. If they truly believe in the politics of Conservatism, I would not exclude them because of their religious beliefs since not everyone has the benefit of strong religious upbringing.
That's my take, but I respect your wish for a more select group.
-Bob
What about laws?
May 25, 2009 - 09:39 ET by SharkGirlBob, I agree with some of what you said, but have a question. How would you feel about laws being made that violate the institution of marriage that God created? How would you feel about abortion laws? How about making laws that take God out of school? Actually, it's very funny to me that the Left-Wing believes they have removed God from anywhere. He's not in a box that they can control. It's like gravity. You can't see it, but I dare them to walk over a cliff while denying that gravity exists.
Just because they are ignorant to God's existence, does not mean they can create laws to "get rid of Him". All they are doing is heaping coals on their heads and oppressing God's people, but their ruling will not last.
Anyway, I am against the laws...any laws..that violate God's ways. Period.
SharkGirl
http://facingtheshar...
A non-lawyer vs. lots of lawyers
SG
May 25, 2009 - 10:12 ET by RESTLESS 1You kind of make Bob's point here. Man's laws are not God's laws. You must live by God's laws. You can't force everyone else to. Personal responsibility.
"Render therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's." (Matthew 22:17-21 RSV)
"This
liberal would be all about socialize -- uh, uh, would be about
basically taking over and the government running all of your companies."-Maxine Waters 2008
SharkGirl
May 25, 2009 - 10:35 ET by BKeyserPersonally, I think that "laws" should be based upon accepted morality, not solely on religious doctrine. Mostly because its exclusionary, in my view. And while the Bible is not like other religious doctines in many ways, historically, religious rule has at best, limited lasting success, and at worst, been exemplified in Sharia Law. Like it or not, agree with it or not, there are some 4000+ recognized religions globally and this country was founded on the belief that each of it's citizens has the right to practice their faith without interference. To that end, the attack on Christianity and God by the Left is an abomination, made even moreso by the lack of attack on other faiths. I think that a dedicated "period of reflection" or "moment of silence" may be appropriate in public schools allowing everyone the opportunity to observe their beliefs in their own manner, but not led by a school official. Private schools should meet a universally accepted ciriculum, with religious teachings at the discretion of the school.
Marriage should be between and man and woman only, but civil unions should be universally recognized and available to all (and only) human beings over the age of 18, and limited to a maximum of 2 persons per union. No triads, no goats (sarc).
Abortion should be significantly limited, and governed by special courts under very strict conditions. This, I know, would be very controversial, and frankly, I don't know if "governed by special courts" is the right terminology given the conditions that could inspire. My view on abortion is that under certain circumstances it should be allowed. My son just turned 17 and has a 16 year old girlfriend. I wish I could control what they do, but alas, I cannot and if an accident occured, I would not want them to forego a chance at a successful life, or that of the unplanned child. I would absolutely support adoption but I don't think it's currently a viable alternative in some cases. I support abortion in the case of exceptional risk to the health of the mother, assuming that risk became known during the pregnancy (pre-existing conditions should not be an excuse for failed or non-existent birth control.) In any case, there would only be one- not continued on-demand birth control by abortion for anyone.
Now, I realize that many Conservatives take a very hard line on these subjects. I respect their beliefs and conviction even as I admit that mine may be somewhat moderate by comparison. In truth, if we break into groups based on the full range of beliefs, we'd be a nation of independants and nothing would ever be achieved. I would be willing to modify certain platforms based on greater knowledge or improved conditions, but my underlying morality and guideance is based upon my Lutheran unbringing and conservative politcal views. And obviously, I am neither shy nor ashamed of these views, but I am willing to continue my education and reamin open to discussion within the framework of these principles.
While I certainly appreciate your morals & ferver to help get
May 25, 2009 - 12:24 ET by pahuberthis country back on track please consider that we are still living in a secular representative republic.
This is not a Theocracy & should never become one. Israel was the only Gov't that was chosen to be so... as much as I agree with your moral stance I would just like to say that this world is a fallen world & will remain such until He returns to rule.
Until then we can at least try to pick the best plausible candidate by voting shrewdly and wisely before God. You will never be able to find a perfect candidate to vote for if you look deep enough within each person as there will always be something to disapoint you.
God bless you & all here at NewsBusters on this sacred day.
This is not a Theocracy &
May 25, 2009 - 12:35 ET by botgThis is not a Theocracy & should never become one. Israel was the only Gov't that was chosen to be so...
uhh, never heard of Caesar, Pharoah, divine right of Kings, Emperor of japan? Theocracys all!
but this just a side road you've taken and distracts from the main point
“The way to stop discrimination on the basis of race is to stop discriminating on the basis of race.” -- Chief Justice John Roberts
I meant this post for shark girl, but posted under the wrong
May 25, 2009 - 12:48 ET by pahubername.
Hi BOTG,
"uhh, never heard of Caesar, Pharoah, divine right of Kings, Emperor of japan? Theocracys all!"
Not legitimate "theocracys" ordained of God.
"but this just a side road you've taken and distracts from the main point"
This makes absolutely no sense. I will repost this under the legitimate recipient.
okay then Pah
May 25, 2009 - 13:00 ET by botgall goverment is instituted by God according to Paul.....
but the point is .... oh well you'll see my other post
“The way to stop discrimination on the basis of race is to stop discriminating on the basis of race.” -- Chief Justice John Roberts
Yes, all Gov'ts are appointed of God, but not all Gov'ts are
May 25, 2009 - 13:11 ET by pahuberappointed to be representative of The God, as a true Theocracy.
My point to shark girl was that while I commend her on her zeal and morals is that sometimes we have to make a choice between the lesser of two evils until we get a better choice. IOW's not voting for somebody because you may disagree with a few minor issues or they are not 'strong' enough can lead to election of wicked individuals in the meantime.
I voted for McCain, but hated it. Now I personally am glad we can start with another candidate next election... however, until then we must endure liberal picks on the court and his socialist policies.
I totally agree with your other posts.
This post was wrongly placed under BKeyser.
May 25, 2009 - 12:54 ET by pahuberUnfortunately, I can no longer delete this post for some reason nor edit it.
SharkGirl
May 25, 2009 - 12:56 ET by botgALL LAWS ARE BASED ON MORALS
let me say that again in case anyone missed it:
ALL LAWS ARE BASED ON MORALS
the question then is whos morals....................
“The way to stop discrimination on the basis of race is to stop discriminating on the basis of race.” -- Chief Justice John Roberts
And this is a secular state
May 25, 2009 - 13:41 ET by botgis a cheap dodge, since secularism is a moral position.
to say you can not bring your religious viewpoint into the political arena because this is a secular state is a disingenous and hypocritical attempt to tell you to shut up.
you-go (shark)girl!!
“The way to stop discrimination on the basis of race is to stop discriminating on the basis of race.” -- Chief Justice John Roberts
Sorry, but a third party is
May 25, 2009 - 09:08 ET by Jack BauerSorry, but a third party is the road to disaster for conservatives.
All that will do is split the right and the center-right to ensure a neverending Democrat majority.
Conservatives already have a party -- the Republican party. They just need to take control of it.
Maybe Jack
May 25, 2009 - 09:46 ET by BKeyserbut as I said, I think it would work in the long-term. Clearly the current republican party will not relinquish control to the base, as the base is a clear minority. The GOP's goal is trying to lure more moderates which will dilute the party, not strengthen it.
Jack,
May 25, 2009 - 10:05 ET by R D HelmIt would also take 10-15 years to get a viable third party up and running.
We don't have anywhere near that much time.
-Dave
Exactly. In 2010 vote Republican
May 25, 2009 - 10:51 ET by Worriedor those Demoncrats will dominate for another 4 years!
Party building takes too long, especially at this time in American history.
OBAMA NEEDS TO GO AND THE ONLY WAY TO DO THAT IS SQUASH THE DEMOCRATS IN 2010!
And those of us old enough to remember, know that Perot
May 25, 2009 - 17:43 ET by Cape Conservativeput Bill Clinton in the White House! Conservative republicans were tired of the status quo back then and look what a third party did to America!
I agree with others, the CONSERVATIVES must retake control of the Republican Party.
I do NOT want Tom Ridge or Colin Powell - they have my permission to join John McCain and other LIBERAL Republicans and let THEM form a new Moderate/Liberal Party.
Republicans have always believed in less government and personal responsibility...and that will be the key to a return to America, the Land of Opportunity for ALL!
This comment comes from a proud Tea Party attendee, otherwise known as a RWRE!! It is no dishonor to be in a minority in the cause of liberty and virtue ~ Sam Adams
Moderates
May 25, 2009 - 08:10 ET by charlietexasI don't hear the Democrats telling their own to "shut up". they are the most intolerant people I know. If you don't agree with them, they will eat you. Just look at what they did to poor little Arlen...when he took a stance against Stuart Smalley they stripped him of his seniority.They get a pass and Rush has to shut up.
The Republican Party has to STAND for something. We can't be homoganized like the dems. Sorry, but we have planks and beliefs. If someone can't live with em, then they can try to change the planks through the party. If not, then they have to make a decision. That is about it. What Powell and Ridge don't understand that most of us are right center. What they really don't understand is that we are looking for a LEADER, someone who will take the party by the balls and get it back in shape.
The DNC has told their sheep to shut up
May 25, 2009 - 10:45 ET by MozillaOh the DNC has told their sheep to shut up when it hurts them. That's why they are intolerant. They are shutting up people with Acorn who disagree about the direction of the organization. They stopped a congressional look into Acorn as well and then killed a New York Times story that would have hurt Obama. There are democrat "pumas" who dislike Obama. They are ignored by the MSM. The DNC tell their own to shut up. Just ask Zell Miller and Joe Liberman.
Ridge appeared to be
May 25, 2009 - 08:19 ET by BigSky1970Ridge appeared to be somewhat coaxed into saying what he said, at one point John King said "Rush Limbaugh is shrill, do you agree with that?"
Ridge is a RINO
May 25, 2009 - 08:21 ET by R D HelmHe can ride Colin Powell's coatails right on over to the democrats for all I care.
-Dave
Both of these guys.....
May 25, 2009 - 09:19 ET by richard......are Republicans in disguise only, so why should any attention be paid to them?
Colin Powell, for all the puffery he has received over the years, is not the sharpest knife in the drawer. Notice has been bestowed upon him for one reason, and one reason only, because of his color. Truth be told, he only got to the rank and prestige he garnered, because of affirmative action. He was an anomaly the Republicans tried to utilize in order to capture the black vote, but after it became obvious that segment of the population will always vote Democrat, regardless of who the Republicans run, he became a marginal player (as he should have been all along) once again. If Powell was such a stalwart Republican, as he claims, why did he cast his lot for a socialist candidate, who stands for everything alien to the Republican cause? Could it be because Obama is nothing more than another affirmative action recipient without any credentials, other than his race, to offer to a gullible nation. Sounds like a couple of brothers who were smart enough to take the affirmative action trolley all the way to the end of the track.
Ridge is, and has always been a glass of warm milk. He never really did anything other than plod along as governor of Pennsylvania, without making any waves, good or bad. He was always an, "Oh, OK, I can do that," below the radar kind of guy, without any great initiatives to show for himself, other than being a good team player. I am surprised he is now seemingly taking a different look at the team he is playing for. Maybe it is his way of showing disillusion with the wrong turn our party made during the last election, by nominating that squirrel McCain. Time will tell what his real purpose of fence straddling is all about, but for now, I would'nt pay much attention to what Tom has to say.
Republicans need to listen to Limbaugh for his incite on conservative politics without getting caught up on his gibes and self promotions that he is known for. He is an entertainer, after-all! If you are smart enough to separate the wheat from the chaff, you can get a good education of politics from both Democrat and Republican viewpoints. Both Powell and Ridge need to clear the cobwebs from their brains and focus on what Rush has to say, and maybe they would understand what true conservatives want their leaders to fight for.
It's not cool to ridicule the professor, if you don't understand the lecture.
He does have a point here
May 25, 2009 - 08:24 ET by JeffWeimer"...we have to be far less judgmental about disagreements within the party
and far more judgmental about our disagreement with our friends on the
other side of the aisle."
But we're not done having our splendid little civil war. The Democrats did it after 2004, and they decided their base would lead the way. I believe we need to do the same thing. We need to have leaders in the organizations that favors, by default, more conservative candidates. The Conservatives need to take power in the party. For too long we've been taken for granted and cast aside for expediency by the moderate leaders of our party. We must niclude more moderate members, but they have to understand they aren't in the driver's seat. the blue-dog Democrats understand that in their party.
These morons are like the
May 25, 2009 - 08:47 ET by nadadhimmiThese morons are like the coach of a loosing football team that has every running play up the middle stuffed. They just keep running up the middle and somehow it's supposed to work the next time. They don't have a chance in hell of winning with this discredited old strategy.
Who controls the storyline?
May 25, 2009 - 08:52 ET by metaphorsbwithuAnd the microphones for that matter.
When will average people of all persuasions begin to notice that whenever liberals and Democrats want to promote an agenda or storyline that the entire print and broadcast media seem to stand in line to regurgitate the same talking points?
More "news" seems to be created than reported these days, and those who do report what people are doing or saying (on the left) are too often demonized and attacked as being "devisive".
We as a people are doomed until someone on the right can begin to explain what is wrong with the thinking of the left and somehow do so in the face of a media that is hell-bent on preventing that message from coming out.
The alternative is to wait until everything collapses beneath us.
A formidable task to be sure.
metaphorsbwithu
Rove
May 25, 2009 - 08:54 ET by kilrodI watched the Rove interview, Rove is brilliant and my choice for the leader of a good conservative party.
This link is on another matter that i found to be interesting. I hope to post it later on a fresh open thread:
http://www.examiner.com/examiner/x-5697-Grassroots-Politics-Examiner~y2009m5d20-National-billboard-campaign-launched-challenging-Obamas-eligibility-for-office
kilrod
Remember, only two defining forces have ever offered to die for you, Jesus Christ and the American Soldier
Thanks for the link, kr - Let's hope SOMEONE gets the ball
May 25, 2009 - 17:52 ET by Cape Conservativerolling on this VITAL matter! If the msm wonders why they are held in such low regard, their total lack of concern or investigation into this person of questionable background is #1 in my book! This stunt would never have been allowed had a Republican tried to pull it off!
Read today's Mallard Fillmore for a bullseye on the mainstream media - and the president's view on its impartiality!!!
This comment comes from a proud Tea Party attendee, otherwise known as a RWRE!! It is no dishonor to be in a minority in the cause of liberty and virtue ~ Sam Adams
Just keep it up
May 25, 2009 - 09:01 ET by misterbee241If you want to keep on losing elections, just keep on being "moderate."
To quote Dr Charles Stanley, "If you keep on doing what you're doing, you'll keep on getting what you're getting."
No truer words were ever spoken.
"I dont need to read a newspaper to know the world's been shaved by a drunken barber."
Walter Brennan, The Colonel, Meet John Doe, 1941
or...
May 25, 2009 - 09:15 ET by i was just thinking...the definition of "insanity": doing the same thing over and over, yet expecting a different result.
Moderates to Conservatives: Shut Up!
May 25, 2009 - 09:08 ET by Dan In SCShut up, so we moderates can be the voice of the Republican party and espouse the virtues of higher taxes, bigger governement, and abortion.
You need to shut up while we go on the Sunday morning talk shows and tell the people that we believe the same things the Democrats believe and while we endorse Democrat Presidential nominees.
You need to shut up while we talk about everything that is wrong with conservatives and the Republican party platform while never offering one critism of liberal Democrats.
Just shut up because of course, the conservatives in this country do not deserve to have their voices heard!
(of course this is all TIC - but since I am new to this site, some folks may not realize.)
We get it Dan....
May 25, 2009 - 09:23 ET by richard.... and you did your TIC, very well.
hey Dan a simple /sarc
May 25, 2009 - 09:31 ET by botghey Dan a simple
/sarc off
at the end of your post will alert all of your intent
“The way to stop discrimination on the basis of race is to stop discriminating on the basis of race.” -- Chief Justice John Roberts
Rhinos R' Us
May 25, 2009 - 09:32 ET by tomchrisThis has got to be the lamest argument I have ever encounted. In short: In order for the Republicans to regain power, they have to quit being too conservative. And who are the loudest proponents of this theory? Not tools like Tom Ridge or Colin Powell. It's Democrats- the very people who have an invested interest that Republicans STAY out of power. And how do you stay out of power? You guessed it- turn off Rush Limbaugh.
Yet this obvious conceit is being fueled by the media week after week. Also, any word yet when a key Democrats will warn his party faithfull to ignore the far left rantings of Keith Olbermann (or, at the very least, denounce a crackpot like Janeane Garafolo). No? Mmmmm.
Rove is (no pun intented) right. If Rhinos want converts to their sugarless, lowfat (and useful idiotic) version of conservatism, then you have to quit whining that people should stop using Brand X and actually prove to America that your product is better. So far, from the numbers of Limbaugh's audience and the fact that Mark Levin's book has been a bestselling blockbuster, it ain't happening for the Obamacons.
Huhh??????
May 25, 2009 - 09:29 ET by RESTLESS 1Ridge also said if the GOP wants "to restore itself, not as a regional
party, but as a national party, we have to be far less judgmental about
disagreements within the party and far more judgmental about our
disagreement with our friends on the other side of the aisle."
Where the hell do these guys disagree with the dimwitocrats??? If they move any farther left, they'll be indistinguishable from communists. Pro-abortion is in no way "moderate". Supporting the 0 is in no way "moderate". Supporting the bailouts is in no way moderate. Yelling at conservatives to shut up while our industries are taken over by govt. is in no way "moderate". This stuff is aiding and abetting socialism, and EVERY ONE of these rinos should be ashamed.
"This
liberal would be all about socialize -- uh, uh, would be about
basically taking over and the government running all of your companies."-Maxine Waters 2008
Third Party
May 25, 2009 - 09:50 ET by slickwillie2001Wishing and hoping for a third-party is a hopeless cause. A Presidential nominee of a third party might have a chance, but for real reform we need candidates at the Congressional level as well, and that's not going to happen. Anyway, there's a party apparatus that is leaderless at the moment and susceptible to takeover by conservatives. Why build a new home from the foundation up when there is one for sale nearby that would perfectly meet your needs?
Those that say we can wait are ignoring the fact that what the Bamster and his ilk are doing cannot be reversed or fixed. You can't unspend trillions of dollars, or reverse a foreign policy disaster like Carter's Iran, and no government is going to disassemble government health care if it is implemented. You can't un-nominate Supreme Court Justices. Now is the perfect time for a rebuilding of the Republican Party, and that's magnitudes more doable than starting from scratch.
It's been my observation over a period of many years, nothing personal or particular to NB, that most third-party advocates are armchair politicians with their feet up waiting for others to divine their particular philosophy and form the perfect party so they can vote for it. You might as well buy lottery tickets. Either that or perhaps democratics in disguise simply sowing discontent.
Remember, the idiot Ross Perot gave us Bill Clinton. No Perot, and Bill Clinton is forgotten like Dukakis, Kerry, Mondale, etc. Probably ends up a divorced alcoholic in jail somewhere for rape.
Anyway, here's an engine-starter for a Monday morning that might help: Against the Politics of Niceness: http://rsmccain.blogspot.com
Thanks sw for the link - I copied a small segment that I want
May 25, 2009 - 18:05 ET by Cape Conservativeto emphasize - because of a few people, two with the same last name! Dick and Liz Cheney, and Karl Rove, of course. It gives a conservative a moment of 'hope' to watch them NOT surrender to the biased msm. They take NO PRISONERS in their appearances! I hope to see and hear much more from all of them in the months and years ahead!
I believe the Republican Party can win in 2010 - along with congressional seats, many governorships are also open. However, you are soooo right in stating the 3rd party is NOT an option. Just think of how different America would be today had Bill Clinton never set foot in the White House! I agree with your prediction. Let all conservatives unite and find suitable CONSERVATIVE candidates to SUPPORT in ending this disastrous path the current occupant of the White House is taking - STRAIGHT to Socialism.
A portion of a post on The Other McCain - the link in sw's post above "...The defeatist attitude of Republicans toward MSM bias is an example of how people surrender the initiative because they see a "trend" -- something beyond their control -- rather than looking for ways they can make something happen to change the trend..."
This comment comes from a proud Tea Party attendee, otherwise known as a RWRE!! It is no dishonor to be in a minority in the cause of liberty and virtue ~ Sam Adams
Face of the Party
May 25, 2009 - 10:04 ET by jaywlAs a politician who has never run for office, Powell is held up as the exemplar of moderation and the Moses of our bewilderment. After endorsing Obama (tossing aside his decades long friendship with McCain) and supporting his agenda now, the Republican Party is supposed to listen to Powell as the voice of honest adherence to acceptable values that will pass muster with the voters. "True faith and allegiance" must have been part of the uniform Powell wore. After donning a "K Street" suit" Powell (and deputy Armitage) showed no loyalty to Scooter Libby and no faith in Pres. Bush or John McCain. Is it a wonder the MSM love the man?
Tom Ridge has joined the party wing that appears to believe Republicans should just go along to get along. "The popular" Tom Ridge leaves the field so as to not disturb an opportunistic and (let us be frank) sick old man. Odds are Specter will not finish another term, based on age alone, not recurring cancer. So instead of having a popular "Moderate Republican" Senator, we can look forward to Sen.Specter (Any-PA) and an appointive Sen. Hardcore (D-PA) all set up for election as the incumbent. We should thank these people for their leadership?
Get out of my party The
May 25, 2009 - 10:54 ET by wiwfGet out of my party
The Rocky Mountain Collegian: Illustrating Idiocy
The idea that the
May 25, 2009 - 11:37 ET by SmartypantsThe idea that the Republican party is intolerant is nothing more than a red herring started by the Democrat party and echoed by its media allies. The Republican party, in fact, shows a far wider range of political viewpoints than does the current Democrat party. Let's remember it is the Democrats who so tightly control their convention that pro-life speakers are not allowed a chance at the podium; while Republicans offer up viewpoints that often counter its general platform. In fact, Republicans have moved significantly left. They now accept the premise of "global warming;" they have agreed to government bailouts of private industry; and they gave up on many conservative issues even when they still held power. Using the intolerant label is just a means to discredit the party overall, and to influence those who barely pay attention away from the Republicans in general. After all, if the Republicans are to become nothing more than Democrat-lites, why would anyone bother voting for them at all? This is the goal of Democrats and the media, an eviscerated Republican party which allows unfettered implementation of a left wing agenda.
The most successful war America has ever waged is quickly becoming President Obama's war on capitalism.
You nailed it Smarty!
May 25, 2009 - 13:15 ET by Nforce"The idea that the Republican party is intolerant is nothing more than a
red herring started by the Democrat party and echoed by its media
allies. The Republican party, in fact, shows a far wider range of
political viewpoints than does the current Democrat party."
On and on and on I could go on the intolerance of the allegedly most tolerant group in this nation. Yeah, we know the answer to that, don't we?
Both parties have their more
May 25, 2009 - 18:08 ET by balboaBoth parties have their more moderate elements, their more tolerant / less tolerant factions. This thread shows that.
While I don't think Rush should stop what he's doing, is he beyond reproach? There are elements of his schtick that I think are more hurtful to the right than helpful, but you can't have anyone call him on it lest they get labeled a RINO.
Hey liberal...
May 25, 2009 - 19:04 ET by NforceWhen I want your opinion on something, I'll get it from your beloved
Daily Kos crowd, okay? This is a Conservative blog. By Conservatives,
of Conservatives, and FOR Conservatives. We aren't shifting
center-left. Deal with it. If that makes people like me "hard fringe right" in your mind, so be it. I really don't give a damn.
First: Very tough. Very
May 25, 2009 - 19:07 ET by balboaFirst: Very tough. Very intimidating, especially with the whole "Hey liberal" part.
Second: How strong can your convictions be if you're that enraged by a simple observation? Not very logical of you, is it.
Okay, I'll spell it out for you, AGAIN...
May 25, 2009 - 19:16 ET by NforceI have no interest in any of you liberals' ideas. Yes, I will say what I think and don't give a damn otherwise. If you liberals find it offensive or (gasp! intimidating!) then I suggest you put your big girl panties on, because we aren't shifting center/left. I'm pretty firm on that point. Take it as you will, liberal.
Oh, and one other thing: those points I brought up above? That is ALL of you liberals/Democrats these days.
Again, very tough, very
May 25, 2009 - 19:19 ET by balboaAgain, very tough, very "Hulk angry"...
I don't really care if you shift anywhere. It's called a discussion board, not a "look at me I'm a non-shifting badass" board.
Geeze, typical libtard.
May 25, 2009 - 19:26 ET by NforceLook. Your mindless diatribe is dutyfully noted, okay? You feel that any non-lib who speaks out against Rush is a RINO. Point taken and it's about as pointless as Condi Rice being called a sell-out by your left wing brethren solely because she served under Bush. That said, I do find it interesting you didn't address one single reality point of mine above with how your left wing brethren treats Conservatives, from the campuses to the media rooms. No surprise of course. That's what happens when you liberals emotionalize instead of logically think.
Oh yeah, and the "angry" word...
May 25, 2009 - 19:33 ET by NforceI knew I left out one bullet point you liberals always counter with: "you're just angry."
Priceless.
They never answer my questions either
May 25, 2009 - 19:46 ET by general companyThat said, I do find it interesting you didn't address one single reality point of mine
Because the answers ussaly proove them to be hypocrites. But that doesnt stop them suggesting crap about our and us. Their morals are in the gutter, but yet we are supposed to be pure as the driven snow?
My Gov. thinks I am dangerous, so be careful
"Television is a freak show" Bernie Goldberg
Ugh. You're the one
May 25, 2009 - 21:31 ET by balboaUgh. You're the one "emotionalizing." And as I stated in my first response, both sides have people who engage in those tactics. I wouldn't consider them my "brethren."
i take it "Ugh" is a
May 25, 2009 - 21:44 ET by botgi take it "Ugh" is a logical assertion?
“The way to stop discrimination on the basis of race is to stop discriminating on the basis of race.” -- Chief Justice John Roberts
:-) No, that's an expression
May 25, 2009 - 22:12 ET by balboa:-)
No, that's an expression of frustration. I don't think there are many Vulcans using "Ugh."
Is Rush beyond reproach?
May 25, 2009 - 19:25 ET by fitzfongIs Rush beyond reproach? Of course not. Nobody is. But your suggestion that anyone who disagrees with him is labelled a RINO is simply untrue. Republicans who have substantive disagreements with him are not RINOs...Republicans who lack the ability to articulate their disagreements with him and simply reduce their objections to blanket accusations (e.g., he's "shrill", "strident", "divisive", "bloated", etc.) most likely are RINOs.
"Socialism is a philosophy of failure, the creed of ignorance, and the gospel of envy, its inherent virtue is the equal sharing of misery." -Winston Churchill
fitz I ask because I've
May 25, 2009 - 19:28 ET by balboafitz I ask because I've rarely seen a Republican on this board disagree with one that wasn't then labeled RINO.
Well hows that any
May 25, 2009 - 19:32 ET by BlazerWell hows that any different than a liberal on a leftist site disagreeing with another liberal and then saying their part of the vast right wing conspiracy or the right wing noise machine ?
Do you think that stuff is just exclusive to the right ?
"You will never find a more wretched hive of scum and villainy. We must be cautious. "
- Ben Kenobi on Liberals, and the MSM.
" The Cake is a lie."
BINGO!
May 25, 2009 - 19:35 ET by NforceI will also add that I've never seen any Conservatives infiltrate liberal blogs like the Daily Kos and the Huff & Puffington Post and tell them how they should think and act.
Actually there are
May 25, 2009 - 19:43 ET by BlazerActually there are plenty of conservatives that post at Huffpo. Theyr'e not in the majority albeit, but they are tolerated and much better recieved than over at Kos or D.U.
"You will never find a more wretched hive of scum and villainy. We must be cautious. "
- Ben Kenobi on Liberals, and the MSM.
" The Cake is a lie."
Oh sure, they are there...
May 25, 2009 - 19:59 ET by NforceBut they don't dare tell liberals to move away from liberalism and be more towards the center. Not on the posts I've lurked on anyway, unlike what we see here. When liberals come here, they tell us we are full of hate, or as in the exhibit above, "angry" and should move to the center and make nice. Then stories like political sellouts like Ridge and Powell fan their flames, so to speak. I'm not wavering from my staunch Conservatism and I'm sure as hell not going to apologize about it. Oh, and wasn't Ridge the genius behind that color coding on the terrorism threat level that liberals made fun of?
No, don't think it's
May 25, 2009 - 21:18 ET by balboaNo, don't think it's exclusive to the right. That was kind of the point of my original post. I don't agree with LOTS of things people on the left say and do.
bal, Have you ever seen a
May 25, 2009 - 19:51 ET by fitzfongbal,
Have you ever seen a thread on which a "moderate Republican"/RINO presented a substantive disagreement based on the issues? I haven't. I've only seen RINOs discuss issues of "tone". I have seen some liberals present substantive arguments on various threads here, and while I may have disagreed with their logic or their conclusions, I have respected their points-of-view because their arguments were based on something. RINOs, on the other hand, don't present ideological debates. They chastise conservatives for the manner in which they argue...they toss out meaningless pejoratives like "racist", "peeping tom" or "redneck" as if, by namecalling, they establish their own moral superiority and end all debate.
"Socialism is a philosophy of failure, the creed of ignorance, and the gospel of envy, its inherent virtue is the equal sharing of misery." -Winston Churchill
BS
May 25, 2009 - 22:39 ET by nwahsAnd I don't mean blue sky. Your "RINO" is an invention of bastardized conservatism. Conservatism is extremely simple. Its small government, strong defense, and personal responsibility.
Conservatism doesn't "read between the lines" to vet people. Liberals do that. Liberals read between the lines to find racists. Dittoheads read between the lines to find RINO's.
"Family values" have nothing to do with conservatism and everything to with peeping tom politics. Lord knows you can be for small government, strong defense, and personal responsibility - but being a vocal homosexual negates it all. Toe tapping closeted homosexuality and South American sex trips seem fine. That's Dittoism.
Scarlet letters aren't covered in "small government, strong defense, and personal responsibility" but its covered in Dittoism.
Disagreed with Rush? SLASH! Pro choice? SLASH! Went to a university- SLASH SLASH SLASH!
Think Darwin's theory is plausible?
Excommunicated from the Church of Rush Limbaugh.
This has nothing to do with conservatism. It has to do with Dittoheads purposely factioning the Republican party and how that is going to help our 39%. But you put up your fists and punch some more conservatives to iterate your relevance, Fitz. Its really broadening the base. I can feel the love.
I didn't leave the Republican party, they kicked me out.
Dittoheads read between the
May 26, 2009 - 09:11 ET by fitzfongDittoheads read between the lines to find RINO's.
Actually, RINOs read between the lines to find "Dittoheads". Frankly, you're just conflating now. Despite your suggestions to the contrary, RINOism is not really about social issues like abortion and gay marriage...it's about substituting big government, weak defense and an expansion of the welfare state for small government, strong defense and personal responsibility. One can be a conservative and still be pro-choice or in favor of gay marriage. Colin Powell is not a RINO because he's pro choice. He's a RINO because he believes the Republican Party should embrace the notion that most people are in favor of higher taxes and bigger government. John McCain is anti-abortion, but he's still a RINO. Why? Because he supports cap-and-trade legislation, he favors the suppression of free speech through his "campaign finance reform" legislation, he supports amnesty for illegal immigrants via "comprehensive immigration reform" (nice euphemism) and, until it was politically convenient to do otherwise, he opposed tax cuts. Rudy Giuliani, who supports abortion rights and (I believe) gay marriage is not, in my opinion, a RINO...because he, more than McCain, articulated for lower taxes, smaller government, strong defense and more personal responsibility. Don't let me get started on Arnold Schwarzenegger...if ever there was a blueprint for how elected RINOs fail, it's Schwarzenegger's California.
"Socialism is a philosophy of failure, the creed of ignorance, and the gospel of envy, its inherent virtue is the equal sharing of misery." -Winston Churchill
Tom Ridge
May 25, 2009 - 11:42 ET by Edward CropperWe shouldn't be so hard on RINO's like Tom Ridge. He is from a basically
democrat and liberal state( can you say Arlen Specter?)
where candidates have to have several pair of lips to kiss their many different
political voter butts in order to get elected.
Since RINO's have the propensity to do said kissing we should not be
surprised to see them flip flopping on most issues, and berating any
conservative who might happen to be their opposite.
Ah
May 25, 2009 - 13:00 ET by DelsaThis is new?
Fed up with pansy Republicans...
May 25, 2009 - 13:01 ET by NforceI'm ALL but fed up with them. Being nice, reaching across the isle, blah blah. If I wanted a liberal/democrat to represent me, I'd have VOTED for one. Don't you pantywaste Republicans tell people like me, or Rush for that matter, to tone ourselves down. The Conservative movement is far from dead, unlike what the mouth breathing libtards constantly yammer about.
The Jackass Party is meaningless to me. The Jackass Party has done nothing for me. I will not waver, I will not back down, and I will not "come to their way of thinking" as I heard some libtard wish for a while back. EVER. Any Republican who wants to sit back and take a beating and be TOLD how to vote by the Jackass Party is just as meaningless and worthless. Vote them all the hell out until we can find some people who are once again not afraid to stand up for coree Conservative values: low taxes for those who pay them, low corporate taxes, freedom without governmnet intervention, freedom OF religion, not FROM it, and a strong military.
The more pansy Republicans attempt to go center/left, the more they will LOSE power. Enough!
If the only way for
May 25, 2009 - 13:50 ET by fitzfongIf the only way for Republicans to win seats in the Northeast is to have no-talent RINO has-beens like Tom Ridge represent them, the Party is better served writing off the Northeast to the Democrats. One need only look to the example of California to show how counterproductive RINO "leadership" is. Ridge is useless, he should simply piss off to the other party.
"Socialism is a philosophy of failure, the creed of ignorance, and the gospel of envy, its inherent virtue is the equal sharing of misery." -Winston Churchill
I didn't know too much about Tom Ridge. I knew...
May 25, 2009 - 16:43 ET by jawebster1he was a successful Republican politician especially being the Governor of Pennsylvania and running "Homeland Security" under President Bush. Now that he has spoken up and backs Colin Powell over Rush and Dick Cheney, all I can say is I'm very disappointed in him and glad that he is not running for Specter's seat in PA. We just got rid of a RINO there, we don't need another one. Jim Webster
Kick him out!
May 25, 2009 - 17:53 ET by nwahsKick him out the party. Stinking RINO.
Lets kick everyone out the party. That'll show em!
These are strange days.
I didn't leave the Republican party, they kicked me out.
Moonbat patrol!
May 25, 2009 - 18:59 ET by NforceAnyone else find it so humorous that the libtards infiltrate this blog and have to tell us how we should act and think to get along with them? The time for playing nice is long over.
Of course, it now comes out that Powell voted for Democrats
May 26, 2009 - 19:06 ET by Cape Conservativethroughout his voting years...probably didn't even vote for the two Bushes who were INSTRUMENTAL in his career success!
It would be best for the Republican Party for him to join Specter and go over to the dark side...and Ridge is certainly welcome to join him. Those with 'moderate' beliefs are in reality nothing more than Democrats in waiting - why put it off any longer, JUMP! Or as the guy did in China this weekend, we just might give you a little push ;-) And...don't let the door hit you in the rear on your way out!
I agree with many others posting...CONSERVATIVES believe in LESS GOVERNMENT, a STRONG MILITARY and PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY! Those are the standard tenets of the Republican Party from Jefferson on down to today and if you don't believe in them, please do us all a favor and LEAVE!
This comment comes from a proud Tea Party attendee, otherwise known as a RWRE!! It is no dishonor to be in a minority in the cause of liberty and virtue ~ Sam Adams