Anti-Semitism?

December 31, 2008 by 2 Comments

As I scanned the newspaper today I noticed something that makes me ashamed to call myself and Iowan. In the letter to the editor section of the newspaper today there was a string of letters on the current Israeli and Palestinian conflict. I find it extremely shameful that all but one letter placed the blame where it really belongs. Instead they condemn Israel and one even has the audacity to blame the United States for the Israeli-Palestinian war.

The first letter that I read attempted to claim that Israel was in violation of international law. However the letter writer does not inform us what international law that was supposed to have been. Perhaps it is the one in which a nation does not have the right to defend against terrorist scumbags like Hamas. Sound familiar to you, I would be willing to bet that these same people opposed the US invasion of Afghanistan after 9/11 also. The author of this letter prefers instead to trumpet the anti-Semitic viewpoints that you see in the mainstream media. It is shameful that an Iowan can be this foolish.

And then in another letter an individual from Ames calls the Israeli response unjustified. This gentleman claims to condemn the rocket attacks by Hamas over the last couple of weeks, however this man then goes on to call Israel’s retaliatory strike unacceptable. He attempts to claim that the Israeli strikes are indiscriminate in nature. I don’t know where he got that when the majority of the dead in Palestine were security forces, Hamas’ pitiful attempt at a military. What this guy doesn’t tell you is that Hamas has conveniently located military structure in residential areas in an attempt to hide them or discourage Israel from targeting those missile sites. Once again we have the opinion of an individual that has been shaped by the anti-Semitic press.

The final letter is the dumbest of them all. In this letter the individual blames the United States for the current crisis in the Middle East. He claims that this wouldn’t have happened if the US didn’t help out its ally. Perhaps there is some truth to that, but if we didn’t help them we would probably be reading about the second holocaust. I don’t think that I need to go into too much detail on this letter.

I have to wonder what if anything is going through the heads of these letter writers. It is obvious that they get their news from sources that biased and anti-Semitic in nature. Perhaps these people are anti-Semitic themselves. It wasn’t Israel that violated the most recent cease fire agreement, it was the Palestinians. Unfortunately too many people have the blinders on and only see what the media wants them to see.

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Mike Huckabee in the “Top 10…”

December 31, 2008 by 1 Comment

“Twitter” is turning out to be a great place for great news finds. I share my latest “find” with you. Titled “Top 10 political upsets of 2008″ held Mike Huckabee memories for me! I was fortunate to hear Mike speak while he was campaigning in Iowa and to work work to promote his message, so yes, I would be happy to see some good press about his campaign and Iowa victory.

The caucus was an awesome event. Even the disorganization of the process was made more tolerable when Huckabee received the most votes of any other candidate in my crowded room. Just reading the words below brings back wonderful memories and gives me hope for next time around.

Certainly not everyone reading my post will be a Huckabee supporter but tonight as I post, what matters is that I am and forever will be.

http://www.politico.com/news/stories/1208/16879.html

Every election cycle has its share of upset winners, the candidates who pulled off long-shot victories that surprised the pundits, the political professionals and sometimes even themselves.

This year was no different — and was perhaps even a little more eventful because of the dramatic presidential nomination battles in both parties.

Here’s Politico’s list of the top 10 political upsets of 2008, the memorable ones that remind us that political handicapping is an inexact science.

Mike Huckabee (Iowa Republican caucus): By the time Iowans went to their caucus locations in January, it was clear that former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee was surging. After a series of strong debate performances and some offbeat advertising featuring martial arts expert Chuck Norris, buzz was building around the GOP longshot’s candidacy.

Huckabee wasn’t supposed to be able to compete with former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney’s money and organization, yet he trounced Romney by nine points, changing the course of the Republican nominating contest and establishing the former preacher as a national player.

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SCC’s New Year’s Resolution: Vote for Danny Carroll

December 30, 2008 by 2 Comments

I emailed all of the members of the State Central Committee with my endorsement of Danny Carroll and my reasons for why they should vote for him to be the next chairman of the Republican Party of Iowa.  This is the email that I sent to them.

Dear Members of SSC,

I am writing this to you in support of Danny Carroll for RPI Chairman. I believe that our party is at a crossroads in determining what way we will head in the future. I believe Mr. Carroll is the one who can lead us down the correct path. He has a proven record of both fiscal and social conservatism, which are the two areas of the party that need to unite in order for us to win elections again. I believe that these two areas of our party are closely tied, and Danny Carroll recognizes this and will bring the party together. He also knows what it takes to run an election in the state of Iowa up against the most well- funded and well-organized Democrats. He has gotten his hands dirty and has the battle scars. We need someone who has been in the trenches recently to be able direct the party on how to proceed with elections in the future. Danny Carroll’s information on how to win is imperative and his knowledge taken from his loses is priceless.

I encourage you to visit Danny’s website and to show your support by emailing the SCC members.

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What is the Purpose of RPI?

December 30, 2008 by 19 Comments

In recent weeks I have had the opportunity to discuss the future of the Republican Party of Iowa with a number of party officials.  The discussion revolved around many issues ranging from campaign strategy to potential candidates for 2010, but one topic really got me thinking. This issue was, to put it bluntly, what is the purpose of the Republican Party of Iowa. In other words, what is the Republican Party of Iowa’s job? What is it supposed to do? This line questioning also got me thinking about how many party officials even know what the purpose of RPI is.

There have been a large number of people that claim the only goal of RPI is to elect individuals that claim to be Republican to office. This is an oversimplification to put it lightly. While I agree that RPI is supposed to elect Republicans to office, this is not the main purpose for the party. The main purpose of political party’s in general and the Republican Party of Iowa in specific is to advance the Republican agenda. Now some of you may be wondering what the agenda of RPI is and where does it come from. That is a simple answer, the RPI agenda is decided upon by the grassroots at the county, district, and state conventions; and is known as the party platform. The primary goal of RPI is to advance this agenda through all the means available to the party.

There are numerous methods for the advancement of this agenda that is available to the party. The most well known method is to facilitate the election of Republican candidates that have pledged to advance the Republican agenda. Now here is where I think that RPI has gone wrong over the last several years, they have fallen into the habit of supporting candidates that say they are Republican, but they fail to advance the Republican agenda. This has to change for the sake of not just RPI, but for the sake of Iowa as well.

Another method that RPI has at its disposal is one that they have failed to utilize efficiently in the past. Hopefully the next Chairman of RPI will take advantage and exploit this method to our advantage in the future. Many newspapers around the state provide the opportunity for leaders and experts from across the state to author and submit guest commentaries for their opinion pages. The Democrats have taken full advantage of this opportunity where RPI has seemingly refused to even acknowledge that it exists. The only Republicans that one will find taking advantage of these opportunities are weak-kneed RINO’s like Joy Corning. RPI must take advantage of all media options available to them.

This idea is similar to the previous one, with one major difference. RPI must develop a way to generate positive media coverage. This could come in many forms, perhaps some of our elected officials can volunteer to help at a homeless shelter. Or how about a fundraising drive that rather than fill RPI’s campaign war chest goes to a good cause like Toys for Tots or something along those lines. Basically find some way of tying the Republican agenda to a charitable event. This would in essence exhibit the compassion that we know we have and the Democrats claim we lack.

At the end of the day the goal that RPI must accomplish is advancing the Republican agenda. The agenda was laid out by the heart and soul of the Republican Party of Iowa, the grassroots volunteers. They didn’t go to the conventions because they were getting paid or getting a free meal. They went to the conventions because they believe in the Republican Party and they believe in platform as laid out. Failure to support the platform and advance the agenda from any party official is nothing more than a slap in the face to the base of the party.

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Chip Saltsman’s CD: The Gift that Keeps on Giving?

December 30, 2008 by 2 Comments

Since I have endorsed Chip Saltsman for the RNC Chairman position, I thought it only appropriate to address the ongoing saga over the CD he gave committee members as a Christmas gift.  I’m not going to get into the arguments of why the title of the Barack song is shocking but yet the meaning of the song is believed to be the opposite, and I am not going to try to convince you why or why not you should be offended by it.  What I will state, however, is that Chip Saltsman should have avoided the “C” word. Controversy.  It is a word the Republican party does not need right now.

I do not want to be too hard on Saltsman since this seems to be the year of Republicans using controversial tactics concerning Barack Obama in order to win an election.  I am a conservative who would never vote for Obama but I became increasingly disgusted with the likes of Rush and Hannity throwing everything but the kitchen sink at him, I was unsettled by the tone the Palin rallies were taking, and I became frustrated with Republicans for not being able to focus on the issues.  All of these things drove undecided, swing, and independent voters right into Obama’s arms.  My advice to Saltsman would have been not to take a page out of el Rushbo’s playbook.

Even though Saltsman himself chose to be put in the middle of this controvery, I still believe his Plan for Republican Victory is best for the future of the GOP.  I would have thought that he ruined his chances for being the one to execute that plan, but then this article caught my eye today.  Politics are never predictable.

The controversy surrounding a comedy CD distributed by Republican National Committee chair candidate Chip Saltsman has not torpedoed his bid and might have inadvertently helped it.

Four days after news broke that the former Tennessee GOP chairman had sent a CD that included a song titled “Barack the Magic Negro” to the RNC members he is courting, some of those officials are rallying around the embattled Saltsman, with a few questioning whether the national media and his opponents are piling on.

Read the rest of the article here.

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A tax payer revolt?

December 29, 2008 by Leave a Comment

On Sunday I heard some commentators on FOX News give their “predictions” for 2009. One prediction in particular caught my attention. “There will be a tax payer revolt.” While searching for the exact wording, which I cannot find, I did come upon many sites that discuss “taxpayer revolts.” Many.The topic of tax payer revolts has been around a long time, it seems, with much renewed interest with the financial crisis that continues to play out as I type away.

One site in particular caught my attention. I hope you will take the time to read the list of prediction found on RevolutionRadio… “Predictions…prepare for the worst” by Roger Wiegand. When I read the list the first thought was to crawl back into bed and cover my head with the electric blanket.

 

But a more mature approach is to see what I can do with the information that has come my way.

As written in the Wiegand predictions:

“Municipalities and states are sinking into a spending, debt-ridden morass. It was reported today that 22 of 50 USA states are in serious budgetary trouble.”

I would say Iowa is in the “spending, debt-ridden morass.” If ever there was a time for taxpayers to unite (revolt) it is now! The time spent squabbling on party leadership, snipping, and straying away from what needs to be done to get us through this difficult time must stop. I urge all Iowans to do all they can to be informed and hold our Governor, legislators, and elected officials accountable to the decisions they are making about how our money (taxes) are being spent.

 

A taxpayer revolt. Such an idea may be what Iowa needs if our “leaders” don’t make decisions in regards to the funds we don’t seem to have to live as we have been accustomed.

I for one don’t want to spend my life with blankets tossed over my head. Let’s gear up for battle and work to make important things happen for the good of us all.

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“Politics…too mean and unforgiving…”

December 29, 2008 by 1 Comment

Warner Prepares for Retirement Happy With Decision

Long-time Virginia senator says he decided it was time to retire when he realized politics has gotten too mean and unforgiving, rigidly partisan and far too expensive.

 

I admit that I do not know much about John W. Warner but I did find the Fox News article to be interesting, especially Warner’s opinion about the state of politics today. I think that Warner’s description is spot-on.

It is awful enough that citizens are mean to candidates of the opposing party but no, we even turn on our own. Sadly we are like vulture’s waiting for the next mistake, misstep, misspoken word, private or public blunder. Draw a little political blood and we are ready to make the most damage out of what has come our way. If it weren’t so pathetic it would almost be amusing to follow the news stories that are posted at every turn because of all the modern conveniences we have at our finger tips to be in the political loop. Critical thinkers would wonder the motives of those “leaking” the story and what the “other side” of the story really is.

If it weren’t so nauseating more people might read comments left on blogs. Telling people who leave vile and untrue comments to “grow up” does not seem to work. I agree, people do need to grow up- but it is more than that. A degree of self-control must exist and many just do not have such a good character trait.

It is my strong belief if the continued vicious cycle of mean-spirited people persists on the present mode of killing with words we will suffer greatly as a society. Politics seems to mirror life in general. We complain about “kids these days”, their lack of respect, work ethic, and more. I don’t see adults exhibiting any better behavior. So much for being role models.

Mr. Warner with his years of experience and being in the political trenches is on to something. The question is: do we care? And if we do, will we take action to change direction in order to focus on issues and what needs to be done to solve the vast array of problems and concerns that face society and our very way of life?

 

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Grassroots input on Danny Carroll and the SCC

December 28, 2008 by 6 Comments

My driving adventure to Des Moines and the SCC meeting was cut short this morning when I got the message that the event had been canceled. I felt some relief that I did not have to continue my slow drive on some slick roads to hopefully arrive on time to the meeting. Mostly I felt disappointment because I looked at being at the meeting in person as a way to be involved and have first hand knowledge of what was said, how information was communicated, and have a “feel” of what would transpire.

Having spent more time than I should confess to reading various blogs and the often time harsh comments left on the blogs, I have been wondering what kind of “party” I am attempting to work for and fit into. It has been a good thing to know that IDA is working hard to sort out information and be informed on the issues. We may be a small drop in the blogosphere bucket but we keep chipping away with fortitude and determination to make the views of the grassroots heard.

It might be easy to get discouraged with all the discourse that seems to be alive and well in the Republican Party. People blaming, pointing fingers, undermining, playing games, using power and influence in unkind and negative ways are a few examples. I can’t do much about those who have an agenda that is not productive to the good that needs to happen in the RPI but I do have a message to the average, caring, and dedicated grassroots of Iowa.

“Remember that you are needed.

There is at least one important thing to be done

that will not be done unless YOU do it.”

(C.Allen)

Iowa weather may have prevented an important meeting today but it did not keep me from checking out some of the candidates for the SCC Chairperson. I clicked in to Danny Carroll’s website and enjoyed reading what was posted. If I had bought in to all the negative comments left on various blogs I would not have made the effort to learn what was shared on his website. The one “important thing” that I have done today is to research on my own and form my own opinion. Mr. Carroll is getting information out about his thoughts and visions about the Republican Party. While I wish I would have heard him in person today, I will be paying extra close attention to his website and will suggest that other Iowans do so, as well.

“Ideas and people win elections.” These few words from Carroll’s website speak volumes to me. Grassroots/volunteers do have “ideas” and we are anxious to have someone listen to us so that we may work in an organized and effective manner to “win elections”. I am glad that Mr. Carroll has this inclusive attitude. Because of his experience and positive efforts Carroll has my support in his quest to be elected to lead the SCC.

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Two different opinions on Bush’s Presidency

December 28, 2008 by 2 Comments

 Ellen Goodman: We won’t forget Bush legacy

And those rocking chairs are an annoying symbol of the comfortable retirement he anticipates, after being such a lousy president

I happened upon a column by Ellen Goodman. I have even forced myself to reread the column in order to write this post. To me, Goodman’s article goes beyond Bush Bashing. It is Bush Pounding and downright nasty. Almost every sentence drips with disdain and anger. Goodman must have realized, as other columnists and pundits have learned through the years that Bush hating sells newspapers, magazines, and are fun to do. Callmecrusader wonders what Goodman and others will do with their time as the next Presidency unfolds.

I am not here to defend President Bush, but to give my opinion that President Bush. I am not a valued and sought-after historian, so Ms. Goodman did not search me out for my expertise when she wrote her latest column. However, I do get to post on IDA, so here are a few of my thoughts on President Bush.

He has kept me safe since Sept. 11.

I did not have to endure constant media coverage of what “is” is, the color of a dress, or new lies to cover up old lies. President Bush brought honor and dignity to the White House.

And then there is Laura Bush who has been a gracious and devoted “First Lady”. Mrs. Bush along with her husband has done much behind the scenes, out of the public eye, to meet with soldiers and their families. I admire what they have done while not searching out media attention.

Back to Ms. Goodman. Journalists/reporters/pundits like her have aided and assisted the lack of respect that is so prevalent in America. The lack of respect given to President Bush because it is the in thing to trash both the President and the Office of the President has not served to help our Country. Yes, I know, America has free speech and Ms. Goodman has benefited for using her freedom to hammer away at President Bush. She has made a name for herself and perhaps made some money while doing so.

But a new President is being welcomed with open arms and I am anticipating that columnists like Ms. Goodman will take on a kinder and gentler tone. I doubt that Goodman will write that Mr. Obama is “leaving the country in shambles.” No, I think that by the time President Bush heads to Texas as Former President Bush, Goodman will have used up her entire supply of descriptions that degrade a President. “Lousy” won’t be a word she will need to spell check.

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The Illogic of Hamas

December 27, 2008 by Leave a Comment

There had to be an end to the patience exhibited by the nation of Israel. After enduring weeks of Palestinian rocket attacks the Israeli’s have finally retaliated in kind by unleashing an offensive on the Gaza Strip. More than 100 people have been killed in the Israeli strikes with the majority of those coming from the ranks of Hamas security forces. Apparently all Hamas compounds in the Gaza have been destroyed during the offensive. You can read more about the battle here.

This newest struggle between the Israeli’s and their Palestinian neighbors is just another example of the centuries old animosity that the Muslims in the region hold for the Jewish state. The Palestinian response to the strikes also demonstrates the twisted logic that many Middle Eastern Muslims use. For example Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas make audacious claim that the Israeli retaliatory strike is criminal and calls on the international community to intervene on its behalf. You see according to this man’s sick and twisted logic, it is perfectly alright for the Palestinians to launch an unprovoked rocket attack on Israeli, but when Israel responds in defense of its citizens and borders this idiot calls it criminal.

Following on the heels of this verbal tirade came a denouncement from the European Union Foreign Policy Chief Javier Solana calls for an immediate cease fire. He also makes the comment that everyone should show some restraint. I hate to tell it to this moron, but Israel has shown marvelous restraint in the face of persistent and criminal attacks on its homeland. Unfortunately this fool refuses to see the unvarnished truth in this matter. It saddens me to think that the European Union has an ignoramus in this high of a position. I really had hoped for better.

Now President Bush on the other hand placed the blame for the current hostilities where they belong, on Hama’s. The White House issues a statement with the basic premise that if Hama’s wants the violence to end it needs to halt its rocket attacks into Israel. I must concur.

For two weeks the Palestinians have launched rocket attacks across the border from the Gaza into Israel at Israel civilians. For two weeks the Israeli’s were patient, they attempted to achieve peace and security through peaceful means. For the Israeli’s it had become painfully evident that Hamas did not want to reach a peaceful diplomatic solution. After exhausting every diplomatic option available to them, they had to turn to military action to seek a lasting and appropriate peace. It should now be completely obvious that Hamas does not seek peace with Israel, but instead only seeks to bring conflict to the area.

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