Nalod wrote:I have a low opinion for Trumps cognitive ability to stay focused or do much beyond look for adulation to feed his narcissist needs but my hope he rebels against the conservatives that put him power as his pandering was not to his core values. What are they? which He does what he wants. Thus, he moderates to the middle?
Does he have true allegiance? Doubtful. If not already he will turn on Vance not want to leave him much.
He is beholden to Putin who logically has something over him.
Will he go thru with nationwide abortion? I hope not. Does he care really about it? He is soulless so likely not. He does hate women so its possible.
Im baffled by many things so im scraping the barrel for hope.

The Dems Special Prosecutor (Mueller) found nothing on Trump / Russia Russia Russia after 2+ years of investigating. No one was calling the Russia lies in those 2 1/2 years and you are still repeating them as fact.

Trump has to keep his ego in check but it helps in the sense that he wants to be remembered and he is not being blackmailed like many other politicians. He is largely backed by the military. His allegience is to America, clearly. The normal protect your borders, lower taxes, stop endless wars, clean our food and Country up, etc. apply here.

Apparently the majority of Americans found the economy, inflation, securing the border, stopping war instead of funding it, lowering taxes, cleaning up our food & big pharma, etc. more important than abortion and continuing wars.

Stop watching MSM. (Yeah, FOX too.)

Just want to remind people that when you look around this planet you're reminded that the U.S. problems are champagne problems relative to huge parts of the planet that are war torn, truly oppressive, no realistic hopes for prosperity.

We should be very grateful for that. And the thing i hope people keep in mind foremost. It makes perfect sense and is healthy to have serious disagreements about policy and the direction of the country but again unlike most of the world we in the US have demonstrated an ability for peaceful changes and transitions of power. We're not an oppressive one party system or a fractured multi-party one.

There was a time when politicians like Dole and T.Kennedy could have serious disagreements but still be respectful of those differences and to each other -- for the betterment of everyone. It's possible and if you're old enough you witnessed it.

More recently, i think conventional media has tried turning politics into WWE and we're getting politicians and candidates who are more celebrity than substance, but we can change that by focusing on whatever signal of substance you choose and filtering out the noise and hyperbole. Be skeptical of the media. They're the new cigarettes only trying to get you hooked on their dopamine instead of nicotine.

For those who like podcasts check the recent one with ezra klein and jonathan stewart. It doesn't matter what political persuasion you are. the podcase is informative.

Chandler wrote:I tend to be optimistic by nature so this may come across as sappy to some

Just want to remind people that when you look around this planet you're reminded that the U.S. problems are champagne problems relative to huge parts of the planet that are war torn, truly oppressive, no realistic hopes for prosperity.

We should be very grateful for that. And the thing i hope people keep in mind foremost. It makes perfect sense and is healthy to have serious disagreements about policy and the direction of the country but again unlike most of the world we in the US have demonstrated an ability for peaceful changes and transitions of power. We're not an oppressive one party system or a fractured multi-party one.

There was a time when politicians like Dole and T.Kennedy could have serious disagreements but still be respectful of those differences and to each other -- for the betterment of everyone. It's possible and if you're old enough you witnessed it.

More recently, i think conventional media has tried turning politics into WWE and we're getting politicians and candidates who are more celebrity than substance, but we can change that by focusing on whatever signal of substance you choose and filtering out the noise and hyperbole. Be skeptical of the media. They're the new cigarettes only trying to get you hooked on their dopamine instead of nicotine.

For those who like podcasts check the recent one with ezra klein and jonathan stewart. It doesn't matter what political persuasion you are. the podcase is informative.

Wonderful sentiment and used to think this. But the planet is being confronted by the harsh reality of climate change and we just elected an imbecile. In my mind, it’s like you’re in a life boat of the Atlantic and half the passengers just voted to drill a hole in the bottom of the boat.

The political system is breaking. There were weaknesses with over representation of minorities in the senate and the electoral college that has allowed a party lead by right wing, wealthy plutocrats and corporations that want more of the wealth of the country to take over. Abortion rights going away, more women dying because of extremists that are just like the Taliban.

There is an image - the Taliban have just taken over our country, and we’re helpless as it burns.

And sure, for now, Champagne problems- and I am grateful, but sad that my kids are going to grow up in a worse, weaker, country.

And when climate change really hits the fan, all the wealth and culture we have collectively created will be wiped out, and maybe in 500 years there will be another culture that studies why happened like we do with ancient civilizations.

Chandler wrote:I tend to be optimistic by nature so this may come across as sappy to some

Just want to remind people that when you look around this planet you're reminded that the U.S. problems are champagne problems relative to huge parts of the planet that are war torn, truly oppressive, no realistic hopes for prosperity.

We should be very grateful for that. And the thing i hope people keep in mind foremost. It makes perfect sense and is healthy to have serious disagreements about policy and the direction of the country but again unlike most of the world we in the US have demonstrated an ability for peaceful changes and transitions of power. We're not an oppressive one party system or a fractured multi-party one.

There was a time when politicians like Dole and T.Kennedy could have serious disagreements but still be respectful of those differences and to each other -- for the betterment of everyone. It's possible and if you're old enough you witnessed it.

More recently, i think conventional media has tried turning politics into WWE and we're getting politicians and candidates who are more celebrity than substance, but we can change that by focusing on whatever signal of substance you choose and filtering out the noise and hyperbole. Be skeptical of the media. They're the new cigarettes only trying to get you hooked on their dopamine instead of nicotine.

For those who like podcasts check the recent one with ezra klein and jonathan stewart. It doesn't matter what political persuasion you are. the podcase is informative.

franco12 wrote:

Chandler wrote:I tend to be optimistic by nature so this may come across as sappy to some

Just want to remind people that when you look around this planet you're reminded that the U.S. problems are champagne problems relative to huge parts of the planet that are war torn, truly oppressive, no realistic hopes for prosperity.

We should be very grateful for that. And the thing i hope people keep in mind foremost. It makes perfect sense and is healthy to have serious disagreements about policy and the direction of the country but again unlike most of the world we in the US have demonstrated an ability for peaceful changes and transitions of power. We're not an oppressive one party system or a fractured multi-party one.

There was a time when politicians like Dole and T.Kennedy could have serious disagreements but still be respectful of those differences and to each other -- for the betterment of everyone. It's possible and if you're old enough you witnessed it.

More recently, i think conventional media has tried turning politics into WWE and we're getting politicians and candidates who are more celebrity than substance, but we can change that by focusing on whatever signal of substance you choose and filtering out the noise and hyperbole. Be skeptical of the media. They're the new cigarettes only trying to get you hooked on their dopamine instead of nicotine.

For those who like podcasts check the recent one with ezra klein and jonathan stewart. It doesn't matter what political persuasion you are. the podcase is informative.

Wonderful sentiment and used to think this. But the planet is being confronted by the harsh reality of climate change and we just elected an imbecile. In my mind, it’s like you’re in a life boat of the Atlantic and half the passengers just voted to drill a hole in the bottom of the boat.

The political system is breaking. There were weaknesses with over representation of minorities in the senate and the electoral college that has allowed a party lead by right wing, wealthy plutocrats and corporations that want more of the wealth of the country to take over. Abortion rights going away, more women dying because of extremists that are just like the Taliban.

There is an image - the Taliban have just taken over our country, and we’re helpless as it burns.

And sure, for now, Champagne problems- and I am grateful, but sad that my kids are going to grow up in a worse, weaker, country.

And when climate change really hits the fan, all the wealth and culture we have collectively created will be wiped out, and maybe in 500 years there will be another culture that studies why happened like we do with ancient civilizations.

I'll suggest you revisit some of these thoughts. Progress is often way too slow to one's liking because others' perceive progress differently. BUT BUT BUT to say there hasn't been progress is crazy. Take civil rights from the 50s to now -- yes a lot of work to be done A LOT. but we had one president of color and two women candidates. Did anyone think that would happen in the 50s and 60s. I'm not saying we should be content, but it's crazy to deny the progress.

I would also suggest books like FACTFULNESS (awesome though a few years dated) and Unsettled. Both of these are by very serious, extremely smart people who know what they're talking about.

I'm sure there are many other serious good books. That said, I would urge taking articles from magazines and newspapers with a healthy grain of salt. There is a heavy incentive to sensationalize and overstate. And even if you don't believe that, there are many times they're reporting on things they know little about and things get grossly distorted in the process.

I'm a lawyer, used to be an engineer. Articles on law and science are often junk (unless you go to truly reputable publications). they just get stuff wrong. I have friends and family who are doctors. they say the same thing. i'm not saying ignore it but give it the weight it deserves and if the topic interests you poke around more. And of course advocate and vote accordingly

WHo is the US worse and weaker than? China? check out their civil rights and their per capita GDP -- no thanks. then talk about climate, their cities are toxic. Middle east? war torn or no civil rights especially for women but really for most. then you have places that actually have the Taliban.

We're good and getting better at pretty much everything. it's just that with our political system it zigs and zags effectively by design. (and as a former engineer we know that negative feedback makes system more stable than positive -- eg one party systems) You don't want one party even if you think they have the best of intentions -- See USSR, CHina, ALbania etc.

The election sucks but we still move forward in the strange way our system does.

NYStateOfMind wrote:Jay is this the only record you have in your collection? You'd be great in court.

most everything you say is not based in reality. better?

NYStateOfMind wrote:No one person dictates anything, policies with the support of the House/Senate do. What or who does matter for inflation/prices?

So, you honestly believe between you and me, I'm the one connected to China? lol Sorry, I don't chill with Hillary & Hunter at the clurb. Your party has had control for 12 of the last 16 years. If you think the economy and security of America are great, that is living in denial.

As of Sept 2024(not my facts nor do I endorse any internet errors in data), there were 45.1 million registered Democrats to 36 million Republicans. That is 20% more Democrats, yet the election was lost by approximately 4%.

Just because your freely chosen party tells you their facts, doesn't necessarily mean they are facts. The majority of America has spoken, but you choose to speak and not also listen. Post-election, a lot media people are saying the problem is ignorant uneducated men and women(they usually point out whites specifically), racists/misogynists/fascists/nazis, and now black & Latinos, to blame for this loss. Nothing about a weak unlikeable candidate, a poorly run campaign, and the current status of America under her jointly held office and policies she said she wouldn't change on the View.

Is continued views and rhetoric of this nature the path to healing our nation toward unity, to great American patriotism & pride? The nation spoke, so that path didn't work for an election. Instead of blaming the other side, figure out why with a 20% advantage in registered voters, the path taken led your voters to give the other party a 4% majority victory. If you don't learn from the past...

P.S. Usually, it wasn't uncommon when we import goods, the ratio has been as bad as 20 of their units for 1 of ours, like cars to Japan. So, hell no, I don't support China or any other country doing this. I support America & American made. You want to sell 1 car here, you buy one of ours, that is smart business trade. Not letting other countries dictate our economy & policies.

P.S.2 Part of growth, as a person, society, country, and global world, often requires hearing hard truths. No one is perfect. I'm not and we all have room to grow, but that usually happens by listening and trial & error. I know I have and haven't always liked what I heard, but usually, I needed to hear it.

But, why would living in the real world and not just following your party/mainstream media matter? I guess saying the same thing, some screaming and crying, will fix the problem, not the root of the problem(s). Hard work and positive energy more often lead to success than expectations of entitlement and personal agendas.

God bless America, that includes your right to respectfully express opinions.

___________________________________________________________________________

President doesn't affect inflation/prices. It's a proven fact the economy performs better under democrat presidents. You clearly are a China fan. Take the US out of world affairs, then China will fill the void.

But, why should facts matter, never do.

Not sure if I'm readying what you wrote correctly. But the GOP has had majority control of the Senate 11 vs 5 over the last 16 cycles from Clinton in 93 to Trump now. GOP has had majority control of the House 9 vs 7 over the last 16 cycles from Clinton in 93 to Trump now.

newyorknewyork wrote:

CanItGetAnyWorse wrote:

NYStateOfMind wrote:Thank God!!!

Yep. Time for some healing and Unity. MAGA

https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/elections/2024/11/07/racist-plantation-text-message/76112532007/

Black college students in several states reported to authorities Wednesday they had received anonymous text messages using racist references to the era of U.S. slavery.

The messages varied in detail, but followed the same basic script, saying the recipient had "been selected to pick cotton at the nearest plantation."

Officials could not say Thursday where the messages originated.

The Southern Poverty Law Center, which tracks hate incidents nationwide, and local authorities in Ohio, Alabama, South Carolina and other states were investigating the messages, which were sent out after the announcement of Donald Trump's election.

What kind of reply is that? I come with a message of unity and you reply with an example of hate?
Where does that bring us?

You guys apprently don’t want things to go in a better direction, as you can’t get over the past, you focus on bad things and generally speak disrespectfully. A mostly peaceful thread though.

From me to you all, Peace.

CanItGetAnyWorse wrote:

newyorknewyork wrote:

CanItGetAnyWorse wrote:

NYStateOfMind wrote:Thank God!!!

Yep. Time for some healing and Unity. MAGA

https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/elections/2024/11/07/racist-plantation-text-message/76112532007/

Black college students in several states reported to authorities Wednesday they had received anonymous text messages using racist references to the era of U.S. slavery.

The messages varied in detail, but followed the same basic script, saying the recipient had "been selected to pick cotton at the nearest plantation."

Officials could not say Thursday where the messages originated.

The Southern Poverty Law Center, which tracks hate incidents nationwide, and local authorities in Ohio, Alabama, South Carolina and other states were investigating the messages, which were sent out after the announcement of Donald Trump's election.

What kind of reply is that? I come with a message of unity and you reply with an example of hate?
Where does that bring us?

You guys apprently don’t want things to go in a better direction, as you can’t get over the past, you focus on bad things and generally speak disrespectfully. A mostly peaceful thread though.

From me to you all, Peace.

Brings us to reality.
These are the type of people and ideals the party you voted for aligned with, promoted and campaigned on for that last 12 years 3 election cycles. You know the same type of people that stormed the capital because their guy didn't win 4 years ago looking to hang the vice president.

To get to a point of peace and love. Its up to the GOP and its supporters to create that. Comes with holding power, which they are going to have an abundance of. So supporters like you and its leadership repping MAGA should be the loudest ones condemning this, setting the tone among its supporters and even non supporters.

But that would only really happen with (A) Real leadership &/or (B)If they/you actually cared about peace and love. Given the type of man that you and others voted to be President, his character and baggage. There is a lot more evidence that its about the money and not the love.

Philc1 wrote:

newyorknewyork wrote:

Philc1 wrote:

fishmike wrote:

Philc1 wrote:

Alpha1971 wrote:Real issue is my wife and I gross around 210,000 a year. Not rich but since Trump passed his tax plans we owe so much in taxes where we never did before. Trumps tax plans cost us money and so many of his followers too but they claim he saves them money. I don't get it

My gross income is about the same and I’m paying taxes out the ass but I’m not a billionaire republican donor. #Freedom

cause middle class pay for everything under GOP. Wealthy get massive breaks so we pay for them and the poor.

The top 1% have more wealth than the entire America middle class and it’s going to get even worse. I’m an annoying a-hole I will be reminding trump voters of their blunder constantly next several years

The Supreme Court will be locked in at conservative majority for the rest of our lifetime.

It is amazing how ignorant 80% of Americans are when it comes to the Judiciary branch of the government.

It's amazing how many Americans are willing to get on their knees for a quasi fascist regime because they can't mind their own business and keep from wondering what's going on in other people's bedrooms. Religion is something that can't be pushed on to the population. It has to be accepted. Isolationist ideology never ends well. Whatever federal protections we had left will be stripped. But that's OK, we can always trust the corporations to do what's in the best interest of this country.