TARRIFS: WAKE UP YOU DUMB BASTARDS

Uncle-sam-gun-to-head

What We Don’t Talk About When We Talk About Tariffs…

Tariffs are a TAX mechanism imposed by your own country on YOU, the consumer, to encourage and coerce the purchase of domestic products by making foreign goods more expensive. The money goes to the government, where it is frittered away on vote-getting and special interests.

And it primarily screws consumers by raising the price of domestic products to just under the price of foreign goods, which results in even more taxes imposed upon YOU, the consumer,

The threat of tariffs as a negotiating tool to enforce foreign policy is a game of Russian roulette.

Trudeau Warns of Retaliatory Tariffs, Says Americans Will Pay More If US Imposes Tariffs on Canada
The outgoing prime minister promised a ’strong and robust' response if the United States follows through with a 25 percent tariff on Canadian products.

Outgoing Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau warned on Thursday that the country would respond with retaliatory tariffs if the United States follows through with plans to impose sweeping tariffs on Canadian products.

Speaking to reporters in Ottawa, Trudeau promised Canada would counter with a “strong and robust response” if newly inaugurated President Donald Trump were to make good on his promised tariffs, “whether it be back on Jan. 20th, on Feb. 1st or Feb. 15th as a Valentines Day present, or on April 1st or whenever.”

“We don’t want this but we will respond if necessary,” Trudeau said of the potential retaliatory tariffs.

Trudeau, who announced earlier this month that he will resign as leader of the ruling Liberal Party, added that “everything is on the table” when it comes to retaliatory measures.

Canadian lawmakers are currently looking into wide-sweeping retaliatory tariffs for everything from American orange juice and toilets to some steel products.

Trudeau warned that tariffs would lead to higher prices not only for Americans who are already grappling with high inflation but for Canadians, too. <Source

Tariffs: A Hidden Tax That Hits Consumers the Hardest

When you hear the word "tariff," you might picture it as a tool used to protect local businesses or as part of complex negotiations with foreign countries. But at its core, a tariff is just a tax that you, the consumer, end up paying. And while it may sound like it's designed to help domestic industries, the real story is far more complicated and often detrimental to the very people it’s supposed to protect.

What Are Tariffs?

At its simplest, a tariff is a fee or tax that a government imposes on imported goods. The idea is that consumers will be encouraged to buy domestic alternatives by making foreign products more expensive. On paper, this sounds like a win for local businesses, right? But the reality is far from that simple.

First, it’s important to remember that tariffs are not a free pass for domestic industries to thrive. Instead, they act as a tax mechanism that increases the price of imported goods, which ultimately gets passed down to the consumer. So, when the cost of foreign goods rises, guess who feels the pain? You. And that’s just the beginning.

How Tariffs Hurt You

Tariffs are designed to make foreign products less appealing by increasing prices. However, sensing an opportunity, domestic businesses also raise their prices. The end result? Domestic products become just about as expensive as their foreign counterparts. So, in essence, you’re paying higher prices for both imported and domestic products.

The government, meanwhile, gets a chunk of this price increase in the form of ordinary tax revenue. But where does that money go? Often, it’s funneled into general government spending, which may be used to support special interests, vote-getting strategies, or even subsidize unproductive programs. The idea that this money will benefit consumers or boost the economy is often wishful thinking.

Tariffs and Foreign Policy: A Dangerous Game

Using tariffs to negotiate foreign policy can be likened to playing Russian roulette. Governments often impose tariffs to pressure other nations to change their practices or meet specific demands. The problem is that tariffs, like any weapon, are unpredictable.

One nation might retaliate by imposing its own tariffs, triggering a cycle of escalation that harms both economies. While the government may claim it’s standing up for national interests, it's you, the consumer, who ends up bearing the brunt of these tactics. Tariff volatility can have wide-ranging impacts, from job losses in industries reliant on global supply chains to higher costs for everyday goods.

The Hidden Cost of Tariffs

It is easy to get caught up in the idea that tariffs support local businesses. However, this approach often fails to provide long-term benefits for consumers. Not only do you face higher prices on goods, but you also risk triggering retaliation from other countries, which could harm the broader economy.

Instead of protecting consumers, tariffs inflate prices across the board, diminishing the purchasing power of your hard-earned money—the result is a heavier tax burden and a more complicated, less efficient economy.

Bottom line…

If tariffs aren’t the solution, what is? Encouraging innovation, reducing government intervention in markets, and fostering international trade relationships based on mutual benefit could offer better ways to boost the domestic economy without passing the costs onto consumers.

In the long run, the key to economic growth lies not in protectionist measures like tariffs but in policies that promote free markets and global cooperation.

We are so screwed.

-- Steve


“Nullius in verba”-- take nobody's word for it!
"Acta non verba" -- actions not words

“Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.”-- George Bernard Shaw

“Progressive, liberal, Socialist, Marxist, Democratic Socialist -- they are all COMMUNISTS.”

“The key to fighting the craziness of the progressives is to hold them responsible for their actions, not their intentions.” – OCS

"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

“A people that elect corrupt politicians, imposters, thieves, and traitors are not victims... but accomplices” -- George Orwell

“Fere libenter homines id quod volunt credunt." (The people gladly believe what they wish to.) ~Julius Caesar

“Describing the problem is quite different from knowing the solution. Except in politics." ~ OCS


IT'S A GIVEN

It is almost a certainty that the cease-fire will not hold...

HAMAS
Bottom line...

The business of amoral psychopathic genocidal terrorists is terror!

And like cockroaches, you need to tent the whole house and destroy every last one of them.

-- Steve

 


“Nullius in verba”-- take nobody's word for it!
"Acta non verba" -- actions not words

“Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.”-- George Bernard Shaw

“Progressive, liberal, Socialist, Marxist, Democratic Socialist -- they are all COMMUNISTS.”

“The key to fighting the craziness of the progressives is to hold them responsible for their actions, not their intentions.” – OCS

"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

“A people that elect corrupt politicians, imposters, thieves, and traitors are not victims... but accomplices” -- George Orwell

“Fere libenter homines id quod volunt credunt." (The people gladly believe what they wish to.) ~Julius Caesar

“Describing the problem is quite different from knowing the solution. Except in politics." ~ OCS


KLAUS SCHWAB, THE PROTOTYPICAL BOND VILLIAN SPEAKS AT DAVOS

While Klaus Schwab promotes wealth redistribution from the poor and middle class to the elites through interconnected authoritarian global governance using themes of climate change, sustainability, and inequality through multilateral action, President Trump is all about America First and stopping the plundering of the United States.

Klaus-schwab

In his own words…

Davos, Switzerland, 21 January 2025

Addressing a gathering of global leaders, Klaus Schwab, World Economic Forum Founder and Chairman of the Board of Trustees, officially opened the 55th Annual Meeting, setting the tone for the week by highlighting the meeting’s theme: Collaboration for the Intelligent Age.

“This transition from the Industrial to the Intelligent Age is occurring at an exponential pace, carrying unprecedented risks for humanity as we strive to prepare and adapt for its complexities, he said. “Yet, it also offers significant opportunities to transcend our current challenges and spark a new renaissance – one defined by advancements in knowledge, health, culture and societal welfare.”

Schwab called on the global community to rise to the moment with “constructive optimism”, urging stakeholders from all sectors – government, business, civil society and academia – to unite in crafting solutions to shared challenges. “By embracing constructive optimism and believing in our collective capacity and commitment to improving the state of the world, we can shape the Intelligent Age as an age where every human being can realize their full potential.” <Source>

[OCS: If it sounds like communist collectivist claptrap, it is communist collectivist claptrap.]

Key Dangers Associated with the World Economic Forum:

  1. Excessive Concentration of Power: The conversations at Davos revolve around policies that benefit multinational corporations and the wealthy as the WEF brings together the world’s elites, wealthy influential political and business interests, and their media propagandists, an undemocratic disproportionate representation of the wealthy elite. These individuals and corporations significantly influence public policy decisions, affecting billions globally. With such a concentration of power, it’s easy to see how decisions made behind closed doors disproportionately benefit the already wealthy while leaving most of the population with little voice or say in critical issues. These elite gatherings reinforce existing power structures, which further entrench global inequality.

  2. Undemocratic Decision-Making: One of the central issues surrounding the WEF is the lack of democratic accountability. The forum is an exclusive club open only to those with significant financial resources or influence. While leaders from governments and international organizations participate, these decisions are often made without the public’s involvement or input. The WEF’s closed-door meetings result in the creation of policies that may not reflect the needs or desires of ordinary citizens.

  3. Promoting Corporate Interests Over Public Welfare: In recent years, there’s been growing concern over the WEF’s role in advancing corporate interests at the expense of public welfare. While the forum touts the importance of tackling issues like climate change, income inequality, and global health, critics argue that it often serves as a platform for businesses to enhance their influence and expand their reach.

  4. Lack of Transparency: The World Economic Forum lacks transparency surrounding its activities. Much of the discussions and agreements made at the event are private, leaving the public in the dark about decisions and how they might affect the global population. This opacity prevents the scrutiny necessary to ensure that the decisions made at Davos are in the best interest of all people, not just the elite few. Major tech companies, financial institutions, and energy conglomerates are involved in shaping policy discussions without the public’s full knowledge, which raises questions about who truly benefits from the outcomes.

  5. Exacerbating Global Inequality: Although the WEF claims to address issues such as poverty, inequality, and access to education, its annual gatherings often showcase the immense divide between the haves and the have-nots as the forum’s participants represent the wealthiest sectors of society, individuals insulated from the very realities faced by ordinary citizens or those living in actual poverty. Undoubtedly, WEF prescriptives perpetuate and even deepen existing disparities between the wealthy and the impoverished.

  6. Encouraging Technocratic Governance: Another extreme danger of the WEF is its promotion of technocratic governance, where decisions about the economy, technology, and society are made by so-called “experts” who are classic examples of the Dunning-Kruger Effect where individuals with low ability or knowledge in a specific area tend to overestimate their competence. Essentially, people who are inexperienced or unskilled in a subject often fail to recognize their lack of expertise, leading them to believe they are more knowledgeable or capable than they are as they prioritize efficiency and innovation over democratic engagement and accountability.

  7. The “Great Reset” and the Future of Capitalism: Can you say authoritarian global communism? The WEF’s recent push for a “Great Reset,” introduced during the pandemic, calls for a redesign of global capitalism to address issues like inequality, climate change, and economic instability. While the idea of systemic reform sounds promising in theory, critics argue that the reset could be used to entrench corporate control further and restrict personal freedoms.

Bottom line…

Fuck you, Klaus Schwab, and your cadre of Euro-trash commies. God Bless America and Americans.

-- Steve


“Nullius in verba”-- take nobody's word for it!
"Acta non verba" -- actions not words

“Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.”-- George Bernard Shaw

“Progressive, liberal, Socialist, Marxist, Democratic Socialist -- they are all COMMUNISTS.”

“The key to fighting the craziness of the progressives is to hold them responsible for their actions, not their intentions.” – OCS

"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

“A people that elect corrupt politicians, imposters, thieves, and traitors are not victims... but accomplices” -- George Orwell

“Fere libenter homines id quod volunt credunt." (The people gladly believe what they wish to.) ~Julius Caesar

“Describing the problem is quite different from knowing the solution. Except in politics." ~ OCS


PRESIDENT TRUMP: WHERE IS MY PARDON?

As long as you are redressing injustice, what about me?

Chauvin-political-prisoner

Derek Chauvin, a former Minneapolis police officer, was convicted for the murder and manslaughter of George Floyd, an unarmed Black man, on May 25, 2020. Chauvin was sentenced to 22.5 years in prison.

Bottom line...

Floyd died from an overdose of fentanyl and underlying medical conditions while resisting arrest. 

At the very least, Chauvin deserves a new trial without venue, evidence suppression, and jury bias issues.

-- Steve


“Nullius in verba”-- take nobody's word for it!
"Acta non verba" -- actions not words

“Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.”-- George Bernard Shaw

“Progressive, liberal, Socialist, Marxist, Democratic Socialist -- they are all COMMUNISTS.”

“The key to fighting the craziness of the progressives is to hold them responsible for their actions, not their intentions.” – OCS

"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

“A people that elect corrupt politicians, imposters, thieves, and traitors are not victims... but accomplices” -- George Orwell

“Fere libenter homines id quod volunt credunt." (The people gladly believe what they wish to.) ~Julius Caesar

“Describing the problem is quite different from knowing the solution. Except in politics." ~ OCS


GLOBAL CLIMATE CHANGE: THE POLITICAL BENEFITS OF AN INFALLIBLE ARGUMENT

Climate-reality

It’s not our fault; there was no governmental mismanagement; it was “hydroclimate whiplash”… 

How hydroclimate whiplash contributed to the severity of California wildfires
The state’s naturally variable climate increases its wildfire risk.

Experts say hydroclimate whiplash—the rapid shift between wet and dry conditions—likely contributed to the severity of the wildfires burning in Southern California.

In recent years, parts of the state shifted from a major drought to an extended period of above-average precipitation that allowed for abundant vegetation growth. After that, a stretch of intense, record-breaking heat dried out much of that vegetation and provided ample fuel for large and fast-growing wildfires. <Source>

[ABC Reporter] Joining me now is climate scientist Peter Kalmas, who has researched climate change and its impacts on extreme weather events, specifically.

Peter, thanks for being with us. Officials are still investigating how this particular wave of fires began. But what does research tell you, tell us, about the effects of climate change on wildfires in particular?

[Climate Scientist Peter Kalmas]  Yeah, so climate change is making the planet hotter. It’s making areas like Southern California drier. And this is causing much worse fires, as we’re seeing.

[OCS: Fact: most of Southern California is a desert which has been artificially irrigated and dependent on external water. The planet has been hotter, colder, wetter, and drier, all before the industrial revolution and the widespread use of fossil fuels.

In my opinion, this is a kind of a tipping point. So you have like more fuel, more dry fuel, more drought, hotter temperatures, possibly stronger Santa Ana winds. And so you’re seeing a kind of fire that we haven’t seen before.

[OCS: Wildland fires, sparked by various causes, are a fact of life. What is different is habitable dwellings in an artificially irrigated ecosystem, the failure of government entitites to manage brushy undergrown, and disaster preparedness.

  1. The Camp Fire (2018), Location: Butte County, Northern California, Acres burned: 153,336 acres, Casualties: 85 deaths (making it the deadliest wildfire in California history), Cause: The fire was caused by faulty PG&E power lines. (This is the fire destroyed the town of Paradise, causing massive destruction and loss.)

  2. The Woolsey Fire (2018), Location: Los Angeles and Ventura Counties, Acres burned: 96,949 acres, Casualties: 3 deaths, Cause: The cause was linked to Southern California Edison equipment, but it was not fully determined. (This fire threatened the city of Malibu, causing significant evacuations and property damage.)

  3. The Thomas Fire (2017), Location: Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties, Acres burned: 281,893 acres, Casualties: 2 deaths, Cause: The cause was determined to be from power lines and wind conditions. (At the time, it was the largest wildfire in California's modern history.)

  4. The Cedar Fire (2003), Location: San Diego County, Acres burned: 280,000 acres, Casualties: 15 deaths, Cause: The fire was ignited by a lost hunter using a signal flare. (It was one of the largest wildfires in California at the time.)

  5. The Rim Fire (2013), Location: Yosemite National Park, Stanislaus National Forest, Acres burned: 257,314 acres, Casualties: 0 deaths, but several injuries, Cause: The fire was caused by illegal campfire use.(The Rim Fire threatened a large portion of Yosemite and resulted in significant ecological and economic damage.)

  6. The Carr Fire (2018), Location: Shasta County, Acres burned: 229,651 acres, Casualties: 8 deaths,Cause: The fire was started by a vehicle breakdown., Notable: The fire spread rapidly and destroyed hundreds of structures, including parts of the city of Redding.

  7. The Tubbs Fire (2017), Location: Napa and Sonoma Counties, Acres burned: 36,810 acres, Casualties: 22 deaths, Cause: The fire was attributed to electrical equipment failure. (It was one of the most destructive fires in California's wine country, causing extensive damage to homes and vineyards.)

  8. The Kincade Fire (2019), Location: Sonoma County, Acres burned: 77,758 acres, Casualties: 0 deaths, but several injuries, Cause: The fire was sparked by PG&E equipment. (It led to widespread evacuations and massive power outages in the region.)

  9. The Ferguson Fire (2018), Location: Yosemite National Park, Acres burned: 96,901 acres, Casualties: 2 deaths, Cause: Likely started by human activity. (It forced the temporary closure of Yosemite National Park and was one of several major fires that season.)

  10. The LNU Lightning Complex Fires (2020), Location: Napa, Sonoma, Lake, Solano, and Yolo Counties, Acres burned: Over 363,000 acres
    Casualties: 5 deaths, Cause: Lightning strikes during an intense thunderstorm. (It was one of several lightning-caused fires in 2020, contributing to a record-breaking fire season.)
    ]

I think it’s completely wrong to blame mismanagement, to blame emergency responders. This is climate change. This is caused by fossil fuels.

[OCS: Kalmas, a government-funded statistical researcher, is entitled to his opinion, however biased and misguided. Nobody is blaming first responders, the heroic individuals who accept danger as a way of life in the quest to help others. The blame falls squarely on the politicians and bureaucrats who mismanaged our resources and a rational adaptation to existing and foreseeable risks.]

The fossil fuel industry has been lying and blocking action for decades. And in my opinion, they are the arsonists here.

[OCS: Fossil fuels are an integral part of our economy and critical to our lifestyles. Unless Kalmas can offer—up a viable, cost-effective alternative, he is just another opinionated liberal living in an alternative universe. It is the government and its paid propagandists who are lying.

This is the “opinion” of a 50-year-old liberal (Columbia University, Harvard University) climate scientist whose work is ecological forecasting using models. And, as we all have seen, the models are deeply flawed and rarely comport with real-life data unless they are artificially “tuned” to produce specific results. He is the author of “Being the Change: Live Well and Spark a Climate Revolution,” which “explores the connections between our individual daily actions and our collective predicament. It merges science, spirituality, and practical action to develop a satisfying and appropriate response to global warming.”

Kalmas says the quiet part out loud—climate change is now a religion and somehow science merges with religion.

Per the description, “Part one exposes our interconnected predicament: overpopulation, global warming, industrial agriculture, growth-addicted economics, a sold-out political system, and a mindset of separation from nature. It also includes a readable but authoritative overview of climate science. Part two offers a response at once obvious and unprecedented: mindfully opting out of this broken system and aligning our daily lives with the biosphere. The core message is deeply optimistic: living without fossil fuels is not only possible, it can be better.]

Politicians have a unique talent for turning a simple question into a masterclass of word salad.

They can dodge, weave, and spin like Olympic gymnasts, delivering speeches that sound impressive but say absolutely nothing. Their motto is, “If you can’t dazzle them with facts, baffle them with bullshit.”

They’ll promise every citizen the moon, the stars, and a puppy—then deliver a parking ticket and call it progress. It’s a well-rehearsed dance of doublespeak, where the only thing more evident than their intentions is the smoke they’re blowing up your ass.

  • Fact: Weather refers to the short-term atmospheric conditions in a specific place, such as temperature, humidity, rainfall, and wind, over hours or days. On the other hand, climate describes the long-term patterns and averages of weather conditions over extended periods—typically decades, centuries, or millennia.
  • Fact: the weather is constantly changing, leading the progressives to declare that warming, generally known as summer, is the product of global climate change, cooling, customarily known as winter, is the product of global climate change, and moderate weather in spring and fall are also part of global climate change. Weather resulting in mass discomfort or damage is labeled “extreme weather.”

  • Fact: An Infallible argument refers to an assertion that is indefensible or unfalsifiable, meaning it is incapable of being proven wrong or challenged; an infallible argument or statement is so strong, accurate, and specific that no evidence or reasoning can dispute or contradict it—something so absolute and unassailable, there is no room for error or doubt.

  • Fact: There is no such thing as an infallible argument in science. Science is inherently a process of continually testing, questioning, and refining ideas. Even well-established theories and models are always open to revision in light of new evidence or better explanations. This self-correcting nature is one of the strengths of science, as it adapts to new information and improves over time. An “infallible” argument would imply absolute certainty, but scientific knowledge is always provisional and subject to change as we learn more about the world.

The truth about global climate change is simple and unimpeachable at this point in time.

1. Man cannot identify, isolate, and measure man’s climate signal against the noise of natural climate variability.

2. Man cannot determine the optimum temperature of the Earth that is beneficial to life from the equatorial latitudes to the polar regions.

3. Carbon dioxide is required for life, is not a pollutant, and is not a significant driver of climate change other than in computer models with incomplete or faulty assumptions and highly manipulated suspect data.

4. The significant drivers of climate change are the Sun’s energy output in all spectral bands, cosmic ray production, the Earth’s position relative to the Sun, the Earth’s rotational and precessional dynamics, plate tectonics and vulcanology, deep ocean currents, and the most significant greenhouse gas: water vapor. All seemingly interlinked with feedback and response mechanisms to support life on our planet. And all impervious to man’s control.

5. There is no evidence that any public policies or initiatives have altered or can alter our short-term weather or long-term global climate.

6. the elite climate change activists and supporters have accumulated additional wealth and power at humanity’s expense.

Bottom line…

The benefits of an infallible argument for climate change are clear: greater political power over populations and economies, accelerated shift to authoritarian communism, and unlimited profits drained from those whose daily toil is increasingly taxed.

No compelling evidence supports climate change, which remains an unproven hypothesis.

We are so screwed.

-- Steve


“Nullius in verba”-- take nobody's word for it!
"Acta non verba" -- actions not words

“Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.”-- George Bernard Shaw

“Progressive, liberal, Socialist, Marxist, Democratic Socialist -- they are all COMMUNISTS.”

“The key to fighting the craziness of the progressives is to hold them responsible for their actions, not their intentions.” – OCS

"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

“A people that elect corrupt politicians, imposters, thieves, and traitors are not victims... but accomplices” -- George Orwell

“Fere libenter homines id quod volunt credunt." (The people gladly believe what they wish to.) ~Julius Caesar

“Describing the problem is quite different from knowing the solution. Except in politics." ~ OCS


THE FINAL INSULT TO AMERICA: BIDEN PREMPTIVELY PARDONS THE EVILDOERS

Cryingeagle

Nobody is above the law except the Biden Crime Family...

BIDEN-FAMILY-PARDON

The most corrupt pardons in American history...

Along with the Biden Crime Family, Biden pardoned several individuals ranging from Dr. Anthony Fauci, whose research leadership was instrumental in the deaths of millions of people worldwide, General Milley, a traitor whose overtures to a hostile foreign government bordered on treason, and course, those who committed criminal offenses when they weaponized government agencies to create the various hoaxes to thwart a Trump presidency, including the January hoax which saw innocent Americans tortured in jail before their cases were heard in court.

However, many Democrats did not receive pardons and are still vulnerable to prosecution. 

The sound of bullshit...

GET-OUT-OF-JAL-DEMOCRAT

“The issuance of these pardons should not be mistaken as an acknowledgment that any individual engaged in any wrongdoing, nor should acceptance be misconstrued as an admission of guilt for any offense,” Biden said in a statement. “Our nation owes these public servants a debt of gratitude for their tireless commitment to our country.”

You do not preemptively pardon an individual you believe has committed no crime. You pardon the guilty after their conviction. This is the ultimate get-out-of-jail-free card, 

Bottom line...

We will continue to be screwed by the progressive communist democrats unless the GOP finds its balls and continues the numerous investigations pending. If for no other reason than to highlight the truth. 

-- Steve


“Nullius in verba”-- take nobody's word for it!
"Acta non verba" -- actions not words

“Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.”-- George Bernard Shaw

“Progressive, liberal, Socialist, Marxist, Democratic Socialist -- they are all COMMUNISTS.”

“The key to fighting the craziness of the progressives is to hold them responsible for their actions, not their intentions.” – OCS

"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

“A people that elect corrupt politicians, imposters, thieves, and traitors are not victims... but accomplices” -- George Orwell

“Fere libenter homines id quod volunt credunt." (The people gladly believe what they wish to.) ~Julius Caesar

“Describing the problem is quite different from knowing the solution. Except in politics." ~ OCS


TODAY WE CELEBRATE -- JANUARY 20, 2025

The beginning of the end of a corrupt, incompetent, and evil era of President Joe Biden and his cadre of progressive communist democrats...

Biden-that-all

Biden's legacy...

Biden-legacy

Bottom line...

Trump-01-20-25

Make America Great Again!

-- Steve


“Nullius in verba”-- take nobody's word for it!
"Acta non verba" -- actions not words

“Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.”-- George Bernard Shaw

“Progressive, liberal, Socialist, Marxist, Democratic Socialist -- they are all COMMUNISTS.”

“The key to fighting the craziness of the progressives is to hold them responsible for their actions, not their intentions.” – OCS

"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

“A people that elect corrupt politicians, imposters, thieves, and traitors are not victims... but accomplices” -- George Orwell

“Fere libenter homines id quod volunt credunt." (The people gladly believe what they wish to.) ~Julius Caesar

“Describing the problem is quite different from knowing the solution. Except in politics." ~ OCS


A DECADE OF PARTISAN POLITICS AND A MAN-MADE DISASTER IN CALIFORNIA

For over a decade, California has been under the tight grip of the progressive communist democrats, where one-party rule meant that money designated for public safety was siphoned off for the benefit of satisfying the special interests, social programs, unions, and democrat voters.

So, it should come as no surprise that we are witnessing a man-made disaster of unimaginable proportions — a result of cascading failures in public safety management, disaster preparedness, zoning, and building codes.

Pacific--coast-highway-malibu
The toll is mounting…

Media Update: Eaton and Palisades Fires 1/18/25

Here are the latest updates from LA County’s Coordinated Joint Information Center as of 10 a.m. on Jan. 18, 2025.

Casualties

The fires have resulted in 27 confirmed deaths, according to the LA County Medical Examiner. More updated information may be available from LASD and LAPD as search and rescue operations continue.

Eaton Fire

  • Structures Threatened: 11,927
  • Structures Damaged: 972
  • Structures Destroyed: 8,988 (Does not include structures believed destroyed, but pending confirmation.).

Palisades Fire

  • Structures Threatened: 12,280
  • Structures Damaged: 628
  • Structures Destroyed: 3,857 (Does not include structures believed destroyed, but pending confirmation.)

The Reality of Mismanagement

It’s easy to point fingers at the weather. With increasingly frequent and severe storms, wildfires, and floods, many would argue that the cause of the devastation is climate change and extreme weather conditions. And yes, those factors certainly play a role, but let’s set aside the political rhetoric about climate change for a moment. Legislation alone can’t change the weather. What legislation can change, however, is how we prepare for, respond to, and mitigate disaster risks.

The sound of bullshit: The theory being spewed by progressive communist democrats is that climate change caused wet winters in 2023 and 2024, leading to lush vegetation growth in California, and recent dry conditions, also driven by climate change, have turned that vegetation into tinder for fires. Now nonsensically labeled as "hydroclimatic whiplash." This is demonstrably false because the climate is constantly changing, and man's challenge is to adapt, improvise, and overcome.

For years, California has been subjected to disastrous mismanagement at the hands of progressive communist democrats. Decisions made behind closed doors in Sacramento have led to a series of cascading failures. Emergency preparedness systems were neglected, building codes were not updated to meet modern needs, and zoning policies were often driven by short-term political gains rather than long-term safety and sustainability. These failures are not the product of unpredictable natural forces but systemic neglect and mismanagement. The result is not a natural disaster but a man-made one.

The Zoning Crisis

Zoning laws in California have made it easier for poorly planned developments to sprout in high-risk areas. Over the years, housing projects have been greenlit in floodplains, wildfire zones, and other disaster-prone regions, often due to pressure from real estate developers and political contributors. Building homes in hazardous areas is not just reckless; it’s a blatant disregard for public safety.

But it’s not just about the location of these homes; it’s about how they’re built. California has some of the strictest building codes in the nation — but in practice, those codes have often been ignored or outdated. When buildings in high-risk zones are not constructed to withstand earthquakes, wildfires, or flooding, the consequences are devastating. These poorly designed and poorly sited structures become ticking time bombs, waiting for the next disaster to strike.

Building Codes: A Critical Oversight

Building codes are meant to protect lives and property. However, in California, too many new buildings and developments have been allowed to sidestep or ignore critical safety measures. There’s no excuse for a state that prides itself on technological innovation and environmental leadership to fail to ensure that homes, schools, and businesses are built to withstand the challenges of the natural world.

One only needs to look at the aftermath of significant wildfires and floods to see how the lack of updated building codes has led to tragic losses. Homes that should have been built with fire-resistant materials have been reduced to ash, and structures that should have been designed with flood mitigation in mind have been washed away. This isn’t just an accident—it’s the result of a system that’s failed to prioritize public safety over political convenience.

Funding Diversity Programs Over Training or Equipment Purchases

Funny1
Prioritizing the hiring and promotions of individuals based on skin color, sex, or sexual preferences rather than accomplishment and merit is insane in the real world. Not so much so in the mythical, imaginary world of the progressive communist democrats who ignore reality, science, and common sense and see the world they wish to see.

Consider the words of LA Fire Department Deputy Chief Christine Larson in a 2019 promotional video…

You want to see somebody that responds to your house, your emergency, whether it's a medical call or a fire call, that looks like you. It gives that person a little bit more ease, knowing that somebody might understand their situation better. Is she strong enough to do this or you couldn't carry my husband out of a fire?

Which my response is, he got himself in the wrong place if I have to carry him out of a fire.

No, I don’t! I want a competent, capable person who takes appropriate emergency action. A fire chief suggesting the man rescued is not where he should be implies that the person who was saved from a fire was in a dangerous, unauthorized, or reckless location at the time of the incident, essentially placing blame on the individual for needing to be rescued in the first place. Tell that to the wheelchair-bound senior citizen in a nursing home. The idiocy of making you feel good about having a person of color, homosexual, or transsexual rescuer is nonsensical.

Proof...

Fire safety vs conservation: How one endangered plant stopped a major wildfire prevention project in California?

In a clash between fire safety and conservation, California's eco-bureaucrats halted a wildfire prevention project near the Pacific Palisades to protect an endangered shrub called Braunton's milkvetch. The project, initiated by the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) in 2019, aimed to replace nearly 100-year-old power line poles in Topanga State Park with steel poles, widen fire-access lanes, and install wind- and fire-resistant power lines since the area was deemed to have an “elevated fire risk."

"This project will help ensure power reliability and safety while helping reduce wildfire threats," LADWP said at the time. "These wooden poles were installed between 1933 and 1955 and are now past their useful service life."

However, the project was halted within days after an amateur botanist complained about the harm done to some of the park's Braunton's milkvetch during the work. The city—accused by the state of carrying out the work without proper permits—was ordered to pay $2 million in fines and instructed by the California Coastal Commission to reverse the project and replant the rare herb, according to a report by The New York Post.

The work saved about 200 Braunton's milkvetch plants, which have likely been torched in the recent Palisades Fire that consumed Topanga Canyon and nearly 24,000 acres of LA's most sought-after real estate.

Wildfires, however, are typically essential for milkvetch germination, creating a vast new habitat for dormant seeds to grow into a fresh generation of the rare shrub. <Source>

The Cost of Partisan Paralysis

For years, the one-party progressive communist democrat political system in California has been marked by gridlock and inaction on these critical issues. The focus on partisan agendas has come at the expense of addressing real-world problems. While the state has been quick to enact regulations around environmental issues, it has failed to make the necessary investments in infrastructure, disaster preparedness, and zoning reforms. Akin to overstressing our electrical grid and then demanding everyone transition to electric cars. Tell that to the people of Malibu, Altadena, and elsewhere whose depleted vehicle batteries and a lack of available chargers exposed them to death or injury. 

California could have used this time to modernize its building codes, improve disaster response systems, and make smarter land-use decisions. Instead, the focus has been on pushing through legislation that appeals to specific interest groups and political donors rather than tackling the structural issues that have led to disaster after disaster.

Bottom line…

We can no longer afford to pretend that California’s problems are merely a result of bad luck or natural forces. What we’re witnessing is the direct consequence of years of poor decision-making, lack of foresight, and, yes, political self-interest.

It’s time to stop blaming the weather and start taking responsibility for the systems we control. If California is ever to recover from the damage caused by this decade of partisan politics, it must confront its failures in disaster preparedness, zoning, and building codes head-on. Only then will we be able to move forward and truly protect the people of this state from future disasters.

It’s time to stand up and call bullshit and for the resignation of unqualified or ineffective leaders.

If you think this was bad, consider California’s “Big One,” which destroyed water mains, gas pipes, electricity, and all other infrastructure.

I don't want to pay more taxes to "fix" the problem, I want politicians to prioritize public safety over supporting welcome wagons for illegal aliens.

We are so screwed.

-- Steve

Smokey


“Nullius in verba”-- take nobody's word for it!
"Acta non verba" -- actions not words

“Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.”-- George Bernard Shaw

“Progressive, liberal, Socialist, Marxist, Democratic Socialist -- they are all COMMUNISTS.”

“The key to fighting the craziness of the progressives is to hold them responsible for their actions, not their intentions.” – OCS

"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

“A people that elect corrupt politicians, imposters, thieves, and traitors are not victims... but accomplices” -- George Orwell

“Fere libenter homines id quod volunt credunt." (The people gladly believe what they wish to.) ~Julius Caesar

“Describing the problem is quite different from knowing the solution. Except in politics." ~ OCS


THE DANGEROUS SIDE OF PROGRESSIVE COMMUNIST DEMOCRATS

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What I’ve learned from the wildfires that have devastated Southern California is the profound impact of neglecting nature and making everything about a political dynamic.

  • The potential damage of wind-whipped fires was well-known and predictable.
  • The political leadership ignored public safety concerns and preparations to concentrate their attention on political power dynamics, namely pumping funding into social programs to aggregate voters while targeting one individual that symbolized the opposition to their narrative-driven ideology.
  • These fires aren’t just a product of environmental factors but a stark reminder of how human activity, poor land management, and inadequate infrastructure can create the perfect storm.
  • Communities are being left to fend for themselves, struggling with the aftermath of physical destruction and the emotional cost of lost homes and livelihoods, while politicians and bureaucrats fight to preserve their cushy positions, political influence, and a profitable symbiosis with special interest supporters.

It’s your fault for not understanding the faux-complexity of a simple proposition.

It’s your fault, the elites say, for not grasping the faux-complexity of a simple proposition. Instead of offering clear, logical solutions, their rhetoric is cloaked in convoluted jargon designed to make you feel inadequate for questioning the subject.

Terms are thrown around without explanation, and their meanings are often abstract or contradictory, leaving the public feeling alienated and confused. This deliberate obfuscation prevents honest discourse, pushing people to accept these ideas unquestioningly or be labeled ignorant or insensitive.

Ultimately, the focus shifts from finding practical, effective solutions to creating an illusion of intellectual superiority while the real issues go unresolved.

Fire protection involves preventative measures, building and pre-staging adequate resources, and reacting quickly and resolutely to ignition events.

My observations…

I have noticed a disturbing reoccurrence of brush fires in certain areas, such as the Sepulveda Basin, the area near Hansen Dam, and the area near the Santa Clara Riverbed --- all of which have concentrations of homeless individuals. The simple solution to these accidental or deliberate fires appears to be to remove the homeless, especially those with drug addiction and mental health issues.

However, in the name of compassion, we find progressive communist democrats waffling on and on about homelessness being a multifaceted issue with deep-rooted causes, including lack of affordable housing and mental health struggles. All while these fires are a dangerous byproduct of the man-made conditions in which many individuals are allowed to live. The progressive communist democrats cannot, or will not, see beyond the billions of dollars that only seem to enlarge the problem as an entire bureaucracy springs up to support homeless individuals – and that includes well-paid special interests such as developers and landlords who exploit the situation.

The progressive communist democrats promote a complete reversal of sanity where the cause is always the fault of the political opposition, and the solution involves elites seeking more political power over the populace and funding for what turns out to be scientifically unsupported theories that produce despair, damage, and eventually derangement.

Compassion requires “tough love.”

In the name of compassion, progressive communist democrats often advocate for sweeping changes that seem aimed at solving societal issues. However, these well-meaning efforts frequently lead to a troubling reversal of sanity. The pattern is predictable: when problems arise, the blame is placed squarely on the political opposition, portraying them as the sole cause of all societal ills. The proposed solutions, however, are less about practical resolutions and more about consolidating power in the hands of elites—those who claim to know what’s best for everyone.

These solutions often rely on funding for theories that, upon closer inspection, are not grounded in science or reality. Despite their lack of empirical support, these ideas are fervently pushed forward, claiming to be the keys to solving complex problems. Ultimately, they do not lead to progress but instead foster despair, damage, and societal derangement.

The result is a growing divide, where people are told that their challenges are the fault of others and the only path forward is more control by those in power, all while abandoning reason and scientific integrity. In pursuing compassion, we risk losing the sanity that can help us solve our problems.

Bottom line…

We know how to manage brush and undergrowth, hold utilities responsible for power lines in remote brushy areas, remove the homeless from dangerous places, and incarcerate teenagers who use fireworks and hang out around illegal campfires.

It’s time to get tough and enforce the laws on our books, or else we are so screwed.

-- Steve


“Nullius in verba”-- take nobody's word for it!
"Acta non verba" -- actions not words

“Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.”-- George Bernard Shaw

“Progressive, liberal, Socialist, Marxist, Democratic Socialist -- they are all COMMUNISTS.”

“The key to fighting the craziness of the progressives is to hold them responsible for their actions, not their intentions.” – OCS

"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

“A people that elect corrupt politicians, imposters, thieves, and traitors are not victims... but accomplices” -- George Orwell

“Fere libenter homines id quod volunt credunt." (The people gladly believe what they wish to.) ~Julius Caesar

“Describing the problem is quite different from knowing the solution. Except in politics." ~ OCS


CALIFORNIA GOVERNOR GAVIN NEWSCUM'S FIRE SCAM

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While the fires are still burning, why is California Governor Gavin Newsom using a campaign website instead of the Governor’s official state website to fight what he terms “misinformation” and lies?

californiafirefacts.com is a website created by Newsom’s campaign committee – purporting to combat misinformation about the devastating Los Angeles fires (“PAID FOR BY NEWSOM FOR CALIFORNIA”)

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Why is the Governor trying to deflect blame for years of progressive communist democrat incompetence and malfeasance?

  • FACT:  Wildland firefighters don’t use hydrants — they use water tenders. And that is what has been used to ensure continued water access. Three million gallons of water were stored in three large tanks for fire hydrants in the area before the Palisades fire, but the supply was exhausted because of the extraordinary nature of this hurricane-force firestorm. 

    [OCS: He forgot to mention that the 117-million-gallon Santa Ynez Reservoir used to replenish this water supply was taken out of service before the fire season, and repairs languished for nearly a year in the face of known fire dangers.]

  • FACT: The Governor has called for an independent investigation into the loss of water pressure to local fire hydrants and the reported unavailability of water supplies from the Santa Ynez Reservoir. While urban water systems are built for structure fires and fire suppression, not hurricane-force firestorms, it is important to understand what happened so we can be better prepared in the future.

    [OCS: No investigation necessary. The facts are well-known and freely available on newspaper pages. What? The dumb son of a bitch does not understand that fire suppression is fire suppression and that firefighters were engaged in structure protection?]

  • FACT: There is no water shortage in Southern California right now, despite Trump’s claims that he would open some imaginary spigot.

    [OCS: Then why are the local water districts gouging consumers at drought pricing, and why are many farmer’s fields lying fallow?]

Why is the Governor collecting names for his campaign and directing your donations through a dodgy democrat fundraising platform that charges a 3.95-percent service fee for every contribution and monetizes the list of contributors? Especially when the charity has its own website and contribution system.

Donation

Pure unadulterated bullshit...

The progressive communist democrats are just now acknowledging the bureaucratic red tape in California is terrible and offering to waive specific requirements for those affected by the fire. What about everybody else caught in a paper quagmire?

The progressive communist democrats are condemning looting, yet passed legislation that allowed criminals to steal up to $950.00 worth of merchandise at a time without significant consequences. Criminals were going into stores, putting merchandise in bags, and then walking out without being challenged. If the police were involved, the criminals were ticketed and released. 

Why was $100 million earmarked for fighting wildfires cut from the budget?

Pointing the finger: Newsom, in office since 2019, told Jon Favreau, the host of “Pod Bless America,” that he had struggled to get ‘straight answers’ from his own officials about what was happening. 

The useless Duke and Duchess of Sussex have been praised after they stood alongside Mr Newsom’s wife, Jennifer, as they served meals to the survivors of the Los Angeles wildfires. Both parties undoubtedly have their own camera crews and short attention spans.

Bottom line...

With corrupt, incompetent, progressive communist democrats in power, we are well and truly screwed. And this asswipe wants to be the President of the United States/ 

- Steve


“Nullius in verba”-- take nobody's word for it!
"Acta non verba" -- actions not words

“Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.”-- George Bernard Shaw

“Progressive, liberal, Socialist, Marxist, Democratic Socialist -- they are all COMMUNISTS.”

“The key to fighting the craziness of the progressives is to hold them responsible for their actions, not their intentions.” – OCS

"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

“A people that elect corrupt politicians, imposters, thieves, and traitors are not victims... but accomplices” -- George Orwell

“Fere libenter homines id quod volunt credunt." (The people gladly believe what they wish to.) ~Julius Caesar

“Describing the problem is quite different from knowing the solution. Except in politics." ~ OCS


CALIFORNIA: A DEMOCRAT-MANAGED RECOVERY

Once again, California’s progressive communist democrat’s, unelected bureaucrats, and media propagandists will exert their control over your private property, possibly weaponizing laws against those they regard  as critics, “truth tellers,” and dissidents.

Everything is an order based on “emergency powers” …

Subject: Health Officer Issues Order for Safe Removal, Transport, and Disposal of Fire Debris
 
News Release

For Immediate Release:

January 15, 2025

Health Officer Issues Order for Safe Removal, Transport, and Disposal of Fire Debris

The Los Angeles County Health Officer has issued a new order in preparation for fire recovery operations and to ensure the safe removal, transport, and disposal of fire debris resulting from recent wildfires. This order aims to protect public health and safety during the cleanup process for fire debris.

The devastating fires throughout Los Angeles County have caused the destruction of thousands of residences and other structures, leaving behind fire debris and ash that pose significant threats to public health. To ensure public health and safety, the Health Officer has issued an order prohibiting the cleanup or removal of fire debris at fire damaged and burned properties located in Critical Fire Areas, including the areas of the Palisades, Eaton, Kenneth, Creek, Hurst, and Lidia Fires, among others, until a hazardous materials inspection is completed by an approved government agency.

Fire debris removal activities must be approved and comply with local, state, and federal laws and regulations. The County has requested state and federal assistance to expediate recovery activities and ensure the safe removal of fire debris from structures damaged by the fires. More detailed information about the debris removal program will be released as it becomes available.  

This order applies exclusively to the cleanup or removal of fire debris and does not restrict the removal of personal property from residential sites. Some examples of fire debris include burnt building materials (wood, metal, concrete), burnt household items, pieces of the building’s foundation, and fire-contaminated soil found around burned structures or affected areas, which may contain harmful substances.

Persons allowed to enter fire damaged areas and retrieving personal items from fire damaged properties should wear respiratory, eye and skin protection. Person should also be aware that fire damaged lithium-ion batteries present a significant risk and should not be touched.

Fire debris, ash, and dirt from residential and structural fires may contain asbestos, heavy metals, and other hazardous substances. Exposure to these toxic substances can occur through the inhalation of ash and fire dust particles, contact with skin, or contamination of drinking water supplies. Improper handling or disposal of fire debris can increase these risks, spreading hazardous substances throughout the community and endangering workers, residents, and the environment.

Fire debris must be safely removed to prevent more harm. The process will be conducted in two phases:

  1. Phase 1: Hazardous Waste Removal. The County Fire Health & Hazardous Materials Certified Unified Program Agency, in conjunction with State and federal partners, will conduct a hazardous materials assessment of all burned properties.  This assessment will help determine the fire debris clean-up process required for the individual parcel or area. 
  2. Phase 2: Fire Debris Removal. The State and federal government will operate program for the clean-up, removal, and disposal fire debris that property owners can opt into to have their properties appropriately cleared of the hazardous fire debris. Properties owners may elect to hire contractors to clean up the property after the assessment but must receive approval and follow applicable laws regarding fire debris and hazardous waste clean-up and disposal.

Bottom line…

I can understand the need to safely remove hazardous materials, especially asbestos, unburned chemicals and cleaners, and lithium ion batteries.

However, commonsense tells you that first contact with hazardous materials will be those sifting through the rubble to recover valuables, mementos, and salvageable items. The heavy lifting will be performed by professions using heavy equipment.

I can anticipate contractors will require additional license enhancements, registration, and other bureaucratic folderol. Not to mention the craziness with the Costal Commission and Planning and Permits departments. 

With the incompetent leadership of Los Angeles and uber-liberal areas like Santa Monica, Malibu, and other chi-chi areas, I fear the pain of our loss will be greatly magnified.

Use common sense and protect yourself against stupidity and environmental hazards. May the force be with you.

We are so screwed.

— Steve


“Nullius in verba”-- take nobody's word for it!
"Acta non verba" -- actions not words

“Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.”-- George Bernard Shaw

“Progressive, liberal, Socialist, Marxist, Democratic Socialist -- they are all COMMUNISTS.”

“The key to fighting the craziness of the progressives is to hold them responsible for their actions, not their intentions.” – OCS

"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

“A people that elect corrupt politicians, imposters, thieves, and traitors are not victims... but accomplices” -- George Orwell

“Fere libenter homines id quod volunt credunt." (The people gladly believe what they wish to.) ~Julius Caesar

“Describing the problem is quite different from knowing the solution. Except in politics." ~ OCS


BIDEN SURRENDERS TO HAMAS AT THE LAST MINUTE

What is the bottom line truth?

Notice that the Biden Administration did not release the actual details of the alleged “cease-fire” agreement including what Secretary of State Anthony Blinken surrendered to Hamas and the progressive communist democrat’s favorite charity, Iran.

Notice that the terrorists are not surrendering, not giving up ALL hostages and the bodies of the dead, and not promising not to steal so-called humanitarian aid flowing into the area.

What I see is that the anti-Israel Democrats are continuing to screw Israel and benefit the murderous Islamophobia-fascist terrorists.

January 15, 2024


Today, after many months of intensive diplomacy by the United States, along with Egypt and Qatar, Israel and Hamas have reached a ceasefire and hostage deal. This deal will halt the fighting in Gaza, surge much needed-humanitarian assistance to Palestinian civilians, and reunite the hostages with their families after more than 15 months in captivity.

I laid out the precise contours of this plan on May 31, 2024, after which it was endorsed unanimously by the UN Security Council. It is the result not only of the extreme pressure that Hamas has been under and the changed regional equation after a ceasefire in Lebanon and weakening of Iran — but also of dogged and painstaking American diplomacy. My diplomacy never ceased in their efforts to get this done.

Even as we welcome this news, we remember all the families whose loved ones were killed in Hamas’s October 7th attack, and the many innocent people killed in the war that followed. It is long past time for the fighting to end and the work of building peace and security to begin. I am also if thinking of the American families, three of whom have living hostages in Gaza and four awaiting return of remains after what has been the most horrible ordeal imaginable. Under this deal, we are determined to bring all of them home. 

I will speak more about this soon. For now, I am thrilled that those who have been held hostage are being reunited with their families.

###

 

Bottom line…

Can you trust the last-minute machinations of a manifestly corrupt President and Administration?

Release the actual draft of the agreement, not the press release.

We are so screwed.

— Steve


“Nullius in verba”-- take nobody's word for it!
"Acta non verba" -- actions not words

“Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.”-- George Bernard Shaw

“Progressive, liberal, Socialist, Marxist, Democratic Socialist -- they are all COMMUNISTS.”

“The key to fighting the craziness of the progressives is to hold them responsible for their actions, not their intentions.” – OCS

"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

“A people that elect corrupt politicians, imposters, thieves, and traitors are not victims... but accomplices” -- George Orwell

“Fere libenter homines id quod volunt credunt." (The people gladly believe what they wish to.) ~Julius Caesar

“Describing the problem is quite different from knowing the solution. Except in politics." ~ OCS


CONGRESSIONAL HEARINGS: KABUKI THEATER

Dishonesty and stupidity on display…

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The Uncivil and Unseemly Nature of Congressional Hearings: A Place for Grandstanding, Not Information

In a democracy, the purpose of congressional hearings is clear: to gather information, scrutinize decisions, hold the powerful accountable, and craft informed policies that serve the public good. But all too often, these hearings descend into little more than platforms for legislators to grandstand, score political points, and engage in performative speechifying. The result? A spectacle that serves few except the self-interest of those involved, leaving the American people with little more than sound bites and empty rhetoric.

A Five-Minute Farce: The Grandstanding Culture

One of the most glaring problems with many congressional hearings is the structure of the questioning itself. Legislators are often allotted just five minutes to interrogate witnesses. While brevity can be a virtue, in this case it often leads to superficial questioning. Rather than engaging in meaningful dialogue designed to uncover the truth or solicit useful information, these five-minute windows are frequently hijacked by legislators who are more concerned with grandstanding for the cameras than with getting to the heart of the matter.

Instead of thoughtful questions aimed at understanding the nuances of complex issues, we often see rehearsed talking points delivered with the passion of a campaign speech. Politicians use their time not to probe, but to pontificate, positioning themselves as defenders of the public or crusaders against some enemy, real or imagined. This doesn't advance the investigation or the policy conversation in any meaningful way. Instead, it turns a serious function of government into a stage for self-promotion.

The Freedom to Lie:  Abusing the Speech and Debate Clause

Adding insult to injury is the immunity provided by the Speech or Debate Clause of the U.S. Constitution. This clause protects members of Congress from lawsuits or prosecution for their statements made in the course of their legislative duties. While the clause is critical for ensuring legislative independence and allowing lawmakers to speak freely without fear of retribution, it also opens the door to abuse.

In practice, this means that legislators can, and often do, make sweeping and defamatory statements with little to no consequence. Falsehoods are flung, personal attacks are lobbed, and wild accusations are made—all under the guise of protected speech. This abuse of the clause makes it nearly impossible for those who are maligned to seek recourse. A legislator may accuse a witness of corruption, incompetence, or worse, with no need for evidence, and face no repercussions for doing so.

In an ideal system, these statements would be scrutinized, and politicians would be held accountable for their words. In reality, however, the Speech or Debate Clause creates a shield that protects these politicians from the fallout of their own unsubstantiated claims. It is not uncommon to see lawmakers leveling personal attacks on witnesses or other members, undermining their credibility in front of the public without any real attempt to follow up with substantiated claims. This undermines the purpose of hearings, which is to seek the truth, not to engage in political theater.

The Erosion of Civility and Trust

Perhaps the most troubling aspect of the grandstanding that dominates so many congressional hearings is its impact on public trust. When the public tunes in to a hearing, they expect to see a serious exchange of ideas, a process in which those in power are held to account, and in which expertise and facts take center stage. But what they too often witness instead are partisan theatrics, soundbites, and self-serving speeches.

This process erodes public confidence in the system. If hearings devolve into petty arguments, partisan attacks, and unsubstantiated allegations, it sends the message that truth and accountability are secondary to political maneuvering. In the eyes of many Americans, Congress is not fulfilling its role as the check on executive power or the voice of the people, but is instead more concerned with maintaining its own influence, regardless of the cost to credibility or public trust.

Moving Beyond Grandstanding

It doesn't have to be this way. Congressional hearings have the potential to be meaningful forums for debate and accountability, but only if they are conducted with a commitment to serious inquiry. To improve the situation, several reforms could be considered:

  1. Time Limits and Structure: Rather than allowing five-minute blocks for each legislator to speak, time could be better allocated for focused, in-depth questioning. Limiting grandstanding while allowing for a deeper, more substantive exchange of ideas would likely lead to better outcomes.

  2. Greater Accountability for Misstatements: The Speech or Debate Clause should not be a carte blanche for lawmakers to lie with impunity. While freedom of speech is vital, there should be mechanisms in place to hold legislators accountable for false or defamatory statements made in hearings. Public figures must be held to a higher standard of truthfulness.

  3. Encouraging Professionalism: There needs to be a cultural shift in Congress away from using hearings as opportunities for political theater. Lawmakers should be encouraged to prioritize the goal of gathering useful information over political posturing. This could include professional development for those who regularly chair hearings to ensure they know how to manage and guide these forums effectively.

  4. Greater Public Engagement and Transparency: In order for hearings to be more than just a spectacle, there should be an effort to make the hearings more accessible to the public. Clearer summaries, educational materials, and transparency about what is being discussed could help the public engage with the process in a more informed way.

Bottom line…

In the end, the bullshit nature of many congressional hearings diminishes the role of government in our democracy. Instead of serving as a platform for truth, accountability, and reasoned debate, these hearings too often become nothing more than political theater. The absence of meaningful discourse and the unchecked freedom to deceive or malign contribute to an environment where the real business of governance is overshadowed by the noise of political performance.

We are so screwed.

— Steve


“Nullius in verba”-- take nobody's word for it!
"Acta non verba" -- actions not words

“Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.”-- George Bernard Shaw

“Progressive, liberal, Socialist, Marxist, Democratic Socialist -- they are all COMMUNISTS.”

“The key to fighting the craziness of the progressives is to hold them responsible for their actions, not their intentions.” – OCS

"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

“A people that elect corrupt politicians, imposters, thieves, and traitors are not victims... but accomplices” -- George Orwell

“Fere libenter homines id quod volunt credunt." (The people gladly believe what they wish to.) ~Julius Caesar

“Describing the problem is quite different from knowing the solution. Except in politics." ~ OCS


FROM THE FIRE LINES

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Thank you to all the first responders for your selfless dedication, courage, and unwavering commitment to keeping our communities safe. Your bravery doesn't go unnoticed, and we are forever grateful for all you do.

Resilience in the Face of Disaster

Disasters, whether natural or man-made, can shake the very foundation of our lives. In these moments of crisis, resilience—the ability to bounce back—becomes our most powerful tool. It’s not just about surviving; it’s about adapting, rebuilding, and emerging stronger. Resilience is found in communities that band together, in individuals who refuse to give up, and in the quiet strength that allows people to find hope even when the world seems to be falling apart.

While disasters may leave physical scars, they also reveal our capacity for endurance and recovery. By embracing resilience, we not only rebuild what was lost, but we also learn to face future challenges with greater courage and wisdom. Resilience isn't a fixed trait; it’s a process, nurtured by support, perspective, and a steadfast will to keep going.

In the face of adversity, it’s this inner strength that transforms hardship into opportunity, showing us that even in our darkest moments, recovery and renewal are possible.

And of the things I am most grateful for is having my sister at my side, and the concern and offers of assistance from our friends in this emergency.

— Steve

It’s not over by a long shot…

A rare variation of a high-wind warning has been issued for the northern San Fernando Valley and eastern Ventura County that could have ripple effects on the massive wildfires burning in Pacific Palisades and Altadena.

A “particularly dangerous situation” — an official level of alert — that could cause fires to spread rapidly may kick in around 4 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 14. It was expected to last until about noon on Wednesday, the National Weather Service said.

“It’s a heightened state of alert” is how James Brotherton, a meteorologist for the Weather Service, described the special red-flag warning. “That’s basically very dry conditions in the air and very dry conditions on the ground combined with very strong winds. All three of those critical ingredients are at extreme levels.”

The winds, blowing from the northeast, are expected to be particularly strong in the western San Gabriel Mountains/5 Freeway corridor; the northern San Fernando Valley, mainly the 118 and 210 freeway corridors; the mountains in the Santa Susana Pass and in Ventura County; and in the Ventura County valleys, mainly near Simi Valley, Moorpark and Santa Paula.

Wind gusts of 55 mph to 70 mph are possible. Such winds could spread embers well ahead of any fire. <Source>


“Nullius in verba”-- take nobody's word for it!
"Acta non verba" -- actions not words

“Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.”-- George Bernard Shaw

“Progressive, liberal, Socialist, Marxist, Democratic Socialist -- they are all COMMUNISTS.”

“The key to fighting the craziness of the progressives is to hold them responsible for their actions, not their intentions.” – OCS

"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

“A people that elect corrupt politicians, imposters, thieves, and traitors are not victims... but accomplices” -- George Orwell

“Fere libenter homines id quod volunt credunt." (The people gladly believe what they wish to.) ~Julius Caesar

“Describing the problem is quite different from knowing the solution. Except in politics." ~ OCS


AM I NEXT? THE SILENT QUESTION EVERYBODY ASKS

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Am I Next? The Sudden, Ferocious Wildfires of Southern California

When the winds began to shift, no one could have predicted the devastation that would unfold. In just a matter of hours, entire communities across Southern California were consumed by flames that seemed unstoppable—raging wildfires that destroyed lives, properties, livelihoods  and infrastructure in a matter of days. In the aftermath, the question on everyone’s lips is the same: Am I next?

Wildfires are not new to Southern California. The state has long been known for its hot, dry summers, and a history of fire-prone landscapes. But the fires that swept through the region in recent years were unlike anything anyone could have prepared for. These were not the gradual, creeping blazes that could be contained with effort and time. No, these fires were sudden, ferocious, and unforgiving.

A Sudden Fury

It often begins with a spark—a single ember or a careless mistake, possibly arson caused by a malignant-minded individual. But once the fire starts, it is the winds that fan the flames into an unstoppable force. High winds and extreme heatwave conditions createa perfect storm for catastrophic fires. With vegetation parched from a long drought and the Santa Ana winds at their peak, the fires burned faster than anyone could anticipate.

For many, it started with the eerie smell of smoke in the air. Then, the sky, once bright and clear, was swallowed by an ominous haze. The fire spread rapidly, destroying homes, businesses, and roads that once connected communities. Neighborhoods that had stood for generations were reduced to ashes. And just like that, the lives of thousands of residents were changed forever.

Communities shattered…

The impact of these fires is not just measured in acres burned or buildings lost; it’s felt in the quiet absence left behind. Friends, families, and loved ones who once lived side by side now find themselves scattered across the state, searching for new places to call home. Some are left with only a handful of belongings, clinging to memories and photographs that were salvaged from the flames. For many, the loss goes beyond property—it’s the livelihoods that vanish in an instant.

Small businesses, already struggling to recover from the pandemic and economic downturn, were hit hardest. The corner coffee shop, the family-owned restaurant, the local store—places that served as pillars of the community—are now gone, swept away by the ferocious flames. For workers, especially those in auxiliary or secondary support positions, the devastation means lost wages and uncertain futures.

But the destruction doesn’t stop there. Critical infrastructure was wiped out as well. Roads turned into rubble, power lines snapped, and communication towers were reduced to twisted metal. Entire communities were left without electricity, gas, or running water, and in some areas, evacuation routes became impassable. Emergency responders worked tirelessly, but the scale of the damage left even them feeling helpless. The government declared a state of emergency, but in the face of such overwhelming destruction, resources were stretched thin.

The Fragility of Our Existence

In the wake of such devastation, the question Am I next? is not just rhetorical. It’s a question that lingers in the minds of many. Wildfires are now an inescapable reality for millions of people in the region, and their unpredictability has only fueled a growing sense of fear.

The fires have exposed the fragility of our modern existence. Communities that once felt secure are now aware of how quickly their world can be upended. For those who survived, it’s a reminder of the need to be prepared for the unexpected—no matter how unlikely it seems.

What many people don’t realize is that the devastation caused by wildfires goes beyond the immediate impact. In the long term, it leaves scars that will take years, if not decades, to heal. The mental and emotional toll of losing everything is profound, and for those who remain, the rebuilding process is both daunting and costly.

A Call to Action

The question Am I next? should not be seen solely as a fearful expression of anxiety—it should also be a call to action. With climate change worsening the intensity and frequency of wildfires, it’s crucial that we take steps to mitigate their impact. This includes better preparedness, improved infrastructure, and more sustainable land management practices.

But it’s not just the responsibility of government agencies or fire departments. It’s up to all of us to be more aware, to protect our homes and our environment, and to make our communities more resilient. We need to understand the risks and take proactive steps to reduce them.

As we watch our fellow Californians rebuild from the ashes, we must remember that the effects of these fires will ripple through the region for years to come. Our shared responsibility is to support those who have lost everything, and to ensure that the communities that rise from the ruins are stronger, more unified, and better prepared for the challenges ahead.

About those politicians…

The progressive communist democrats who diverted billions of dollars into social programs while starving the repair, replacement, and build-out of critical resilient infrastructure. A subject best left to another blog as I am too furious to consider the matter objectively at this time when the fires are out of control and uncontained.

Bottom line…

No matter the final toll of this wildfire disaster, it is nothing compared to a major earthquake where water lines, gas lines, and power lines will be breached. Impassible escape routes and apocalyptic devastation.

Southern California has always been a place defined by its resilience. Time and time again, the people of this region have come together to rebuild after tragedy. The scars of these wildfires may be deep, but the strength of the communities affected is deeper still.

As we look to the future, the question Am I next? will remain—until we can ensure that no one ever has to ask it again. Because, as devastating as these fires have been, the spirit of Southern California is unbreakable. Together, we will rise from the ashes.

We are so screwed.

— Steve 


“Nullius in verba”-- take nobody's word for it!
"Acta non verba" -- actions not words

“Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.”-- George Bernard Shaw

“Progressive, liberal, Socialist, Marxist, Democratic Socialist -- they are all COMMUNISTS.”

“The key to fighting the craziness of the progressives is to hold them responsible for their actions, not their intentions.” – OCS

"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

“A people that elect corrupt politicians, imposters, thieves, and traitors are not victims... but accomplices” -- George Orwell

“Fere libenter homines id quod volunt credunt." (The people gladly believe what they wish to.) ~Julius Caesar

“Describing the problem is quite different from knowing the solution. Except in politics." ~ OCS


BEWARE OF SCAMMY ATTORNEYS IN FIRE DISASTER AREAS

Beware of Lawyers Soliciting Business in Fire Disaster Areas: Protecting Yourself from Unwanted Legal Practices

After a catastrophic event like a wildfire, victims face not only the destruction of their homes and livelihoods but also the overwhelming task of navigating insurance claims, government aid, and possibly even lawsuits. In such trying times, the last thing people need is to feel pressured into legal services that may not be in their best interest. Especially if they are offering services based on contingency fees.

Yet, following a disaster, it's common to see attorneys soliciting business in various ways—either directly or through third-party agents. Some attorneys work aggressively to secure clients, offering help with insurance claims, filing class action lawsuits, or securing government benefits. While legitimate legal assistance can certainly be a lifeline, it's important to be cautious when lawyers or their agents come knocking after a fire disaster.

Why Should You Be Cautious?

  1. Ambiguity About Legal Fees Many attorneys promise “no fees unless you win,” but their fee structures can be unclear or misleading. Some may charge hidden costs or take a significant percentage of any settlements. In disaster scenarios, people are particularly vulnerable and may not fully understand the fine print, leading to financial exploitation later on.

  2. Aggressive Solicitation Tactics Attorneys who actively solicit clients in disaster areas—whether through door-to-door visits, phone calls, or flyers—may not have your best interests at heart. While some may offer legitimate help, others may prey on people’s emotional and financial distress, seeking to lock you into contracts that are hard to break.

    Aggression in solicitation can come in the form of:

    • Knocking on doors in affected neighborhoods
    • Cold calling survivors who may not even realize they've been added to a list of potential clients
    • Using aggressive advertising in the media or through social channels specifically targeting those impacted by the disaster
  3. Unclear Relationships with Aggregators Some attorneys work through third-party agents or "aggregators" who gather information about victims and then sell this data to law firms. These aggregators might use questionable methods to get people’s contact details, such as from social media posts, local news outlets, or even government assistance records.

    If you're approached by someone claiming to represent a lawyer, ask how they obtained your information. If they can’t provide a clear answer, it might be a red flag.

  4. Misleading Information About Lawsuits and Class Actions Many attorneys focus on class action lawsuits or insurance claims that promise a large payout. While these actions can sometimes yield compensation, not every claim results in financial recovery for every participant. In fact, class actions can be lengthy, difficult to navigate, and often result in attorneys receiving a disproportionate share of any award, leaving survivors with little.

    Additionally, not all fire victims may qualify for class action status. If a lawyer or agent is pressuring you into joining a lawsuit, take the time to thoroughly review your options and ensure that this route is the best one for your individual situation.

  5. Unnecessary Claims or Claims that Aren’t Valid Some lawyers may attempt to convince you to file claims you don’t need, creating a case out of circumstances that don’t warrant legal intervention. These false or unnecessary claims may drag you into protracted legal battles, leaving you stuck with attorney fees and a lingering sense of uncertainty.

  6. Government Benefits Scams Another tactic used by some unscrupulous lawyers or third parties is claiming they can help you secure government benefits (such as disaster relief, FEMA grants, or state compensation funds). While legal assistance can certainly help navigate these processes, many disaster relief programs do not require legal representation to apply, and you should be wary if anyone offers "guaranteed" success or fast-tracked assistance for a fee.

What to Look for When Choosing Legal Assistance

If you do decide you need legal assistance after a fire disaster, here are a few steps to ensure you’re working with a reputable professional:

  • Verify Credentials: Check that the lawyer is licensed in your state and specializes in the type of law you need help with (e.g., insurance claims, class action lawsuits, etc.). Ask for Bar Cards and Drivers Licenses for verifications. 
  • Read Reviews and Ask for Referrals: Talk to neighbors, friends, or colleagues who might have experience with the attorney or firm in question. Research the firm’s reputation online.
  • Get Multiple Opinions: Don’t feel obligated to sign anything on the spot. Talk to multiple attorneys to ensure you're getting honest, straightforward advice.
  • Understand Fees: Be very clear about any potential costs or fees upfront. A legitimate attorney should provide a written agreement detailing the terms and any fees.
  • Avoid High-Pressure Tactics: A good lawyer will give you time to think, not rush you into making decisions in the heat of the moment.

Bottom line…

The aftermath of a fire disaster is a traumatic experience, and the last thing you need is to be overwhelmed by unsolicited legal services that may not have your best interests in mind. While there are certainly legitimate attorneys and law firms that specialize in fire-related cases, it’s essential to approach the process with caution. By being informed, asking questions, and taking your time to find a trusted professional, you can ensure that any legal assistance you receive is truly beneficial.

Remember, your recovery and well-being should always be your top priority—beware of anyone who prioritizes profit over people.

We are so screwed.

—Steve


“Nullius in verba”-- take nobody's word for it!
"Acta non verba" -- actions not words

“Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.”-- George Bernard Shaw

“Progressive, liberal, Socialist, Marxist, Democratic Socialist -- they are all COMMUNISTS.”

“The key to fighting the craziness of the progressives is to hold them responsible for their actions, not their intentions.” – OCS

"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

“A people that elect corrupt politicians, imposters, thieves, and traitors are not victims... but accomplices” -- George Orwell

“Fere libenter homines id quod volunt credunt." (The people gladly believe what they wish to.) ~Julius Caesar

“Describing the problem is quite different from knowing the solution. Except in politics." ~ OCS


DISASTER LESSONS FROM LOS ANGELES: WE ARE SO SCREWED

CAL-CRAPPER

California is known for its beauty, innovation, and progressiveness, but behind the sunny exterior, a much darker reality looms, especially regarding disaster preparedness.

In the name of environmentalism, anti-growth policies, and a zealous anti-capitalist ideology, California’s leaders seem to have lost their focus on the most pressing issues that could bring the state to its knees — namely, a significant earthquake.

While the state’s leaders continue to fight against “climate change denial,” they seem to be blind to an equally catastrophic threat: the looming risk of a significant seismic disaster. It’s ironic that California, a state sitting precariously on one of the most active earthquake fault lines in the world, has prioritized environmental and ideological crusades over the basic infrastructure and readiness required to survive the disaster waiting to happen.

The current wind-driven fires that rage across the state are horrific. The devastation is confirmed, the response is inadequate, and the helplessness of residents trapped in fire zones is palpable. However, as catastrophic as these fires are, they pale compared to what could happen should a major earthquake strike.

Imagine the destruction when the very earth beneath California shakes violently — rupturing gas lines, destroying roads, collapsing bridges, and ripping apart the critical infrastructure we depend on every day. Our water supply, electricity, and transportation system would be crippled, and thousands, if not millions, would be left stranded in a state of chaos. Yet, instead of addressing this dire scenario, California’s leaders have embraced ideological policies prioritizing environmental ideals over practical, real-world solutions for disaster preparedness.

The focus on anti-growth and anti-capitalist rhetoric has led to policies that have stymied building necessary infrastructure and modernizing old systems. California’s aging pipes, roads, and electrical grids are an accident waiting to happen, and our inability to prepare for a massive earthquake is a ticking time bomb.

In the midst of this, the state’s bureaucrats and politicians continue to scream about climate change, pushing an agenda that, while important, should not overshadow the pressing issues of preparedness. By focusing all their energy on fighting climate change and social justice at the expense of disaster readiness, they are effectively placing a metaphorical gun at the head of every Californian.

About the progressive communist democrat majority in California’s legislature...

CA-LEGISLATURE

The Democratic Party currently holds a veto-proof super-majority in both houses of the California State Legislature. The Assembly consists of 60 Democrats and 19 Republicans, while the Senate consists of 30 Democrats and 9 Republicans.

The ideological danger of a progressive super-majority lies in the unchecked concentration of power that often prioritizes ideological purity over practical governance. When a single, overarching ideology dominates a political system, it can stifle debate, diminish diverse perspectives, and silence voices that might challenge the status quo. In such an environment, decisions are frequently driven by ideological dogma rather than evidence-based solutions, which can result in policies that fail to address the needs of all citizens. Pursuing idealistic goals, such as sweeping social reforms or aggressive environmental agendas, often comes at the expense of pragmatic concerns like economic stability, infrastructure development, or disaster preparedness. This ideological tunnel vision risks creating an unbalanced government where the urgent, real-world problems that require cooperation and compromise are ignored, leading to inefficiency, failure, and, ultimately, a disengaged and dissatisfied populace.

Bottom line…

We must demand that our leaders start taking the necessary steps to protect the people of California from all forms of disaster — whether it’s a fire, an earthquake, or anything in between. We must push for the modernization of infrastructure, the reinforcement of our buildings and roads, and a comprehensive emergency response plan that considers the very real threat of a significant earthquake.

In California’s rush to embrace a progressive ideology, the basic needs of its residents — safety, security, and survival — have been pushed to the back burner. If the state doesn’t wake up to the reality of its disaster vulnerabilities soon, we may all be paying the price for this ideological oversight.

The future is uncertain, and the stakes couldn’t be higher.

We are so screwed.

-- Steve


“Nullius in verba”-- take nobody's word for it!
"Acta non verba" -- actions not words

“Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.”-- George Bernard Shaw

“Progressive, liberal, Socialist, Marxist, Democratic Socialist -- they are all COMMUNISTS.”

“The key to fighting the craziness of the progressives is to hold them responsible for their actions, not their intentions.” – OCS

"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

“A people that elect corrupt politicians, imposters, thieves, and traitors are not victims... but accomplices” -- George Orwell

“Fere libenter homines id quod volunt credunt." (The people gladly believe what they wish to.) ~Julius Caesar

“Describing the problem is quite different from knowing the solution. Except in politics." ~ OCS


SORRY — OUT OF POCKET ON LOCAL FIREWATCH

It appears that there is another local fire and there is a suspect arsonist being investigated. 

We are looking at 5,000 structures—entire communities and support infrastructure—destroyed and billions of dollars in damages. 

Looters are descending on the burn areas before the National Guard arrives to relieve police who will return to crime suppression rather than evacuation assistance. 

BTW:  This is severe weather and NOT climate change  The insurance companies cut a deal with the State of California to project future losses based on climate change  

Hope everybody’s safe and healthy in this acrid air.

We are so screwed. 

— Steve


“Nullius in verba”-- take nobody's word for it!
"Acta non verba" -- actions not words

“Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.”-- George Bernard Shaw

“Progressive, liberal, Socialist, Marxist, Democratic Socialist -- they are all COMMUNISTS.”

“The key to fighting the craziness of the progressives is to hold them responsible for their actions, not their intentions.” – OCS

"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

“A people that elect corrupt politicians, imposters, thieves, and traitors are not victims... but accomplices” -- George Orwell

“Fere libenter homines id quod volunt credunt." (The people gladly believe what they wish to.) ~Julius Caesar

“Describing the problem is quite different from knowing the solution. Except in politics." ~ OCS


STILL ON FIREWATCH

Surrounded... Another-one LIST
Much of this can be laid at the feet of resource mismanagement.

Unfortunately, the finger-pointing is ramping up with the black communist L.A. Mayor tripping in Ghana, the lesbian L.A. Fire Chief diverting taxpayer funds into DEI programs, an ineffective Governor posturing for the cameras, and a President who looks at a screen showing a fire and lauds himself as a great grandfather. 

And, of course, the media screws it up...

[Melvin Robert]
Former L. A mayoral candidate and real estate developer, Rick Caruso, criticizing the city's response to the windstorm and fires. He says officials should have been more prepared.

[Rick Caruso]
The real issue to me is twofold. We've had decades to go remove the brush in these hills that spread so quickly. And the second is you've got to have water.

And my understanding is the reservoir was not refilled in time and in a timely manner to keep the hydrants go. So that's a failure, whether on DWP's part or another city agency. But this is basic stuff.

This isn't high science here. And it's all about leadership and management that we're seeing a failure of. And all of these residents are paying the ultimate price for that.

[Melvin Robert]
Despite what you have heard from Caruso, no firefighters have told us that they are running out of water.

[Breaking News Banner with Voiceover Anchor]

And let's go out to Gigi Graciette. She is live in Pacific Palisades. I know your signal's not the best, but Gigi, what can you tell us?

[Gigi Graciette]
Well, firefighters have told me they have no water on this block, and you may be able to make out the ember storm that we're in the middle of right now. This house going to be a total loss. They have no water to put on this fire.

They are standing by because they're trying to save the home that is next to it.

[OCS: Who are you going to believe? An anchor or the field reporter with on-the-ground facts?]

We are so screwed.

-- Steve

 

 


“Nullius in verba”-- take nobody's word for it!
"Acta non verba" -- actions not words

“Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.”-- George Bernard Shaw

“Progressive, liberal, Socialist, Marxist, Democratic Socialist -- they are all COMMUNISTS.”

“The key to fighting the craziness of the progressives is to hold them responsible for their actions, not their intentions.” – OCS

"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

“A people that elect corrupt politicians, imposters, thieves, and traitors are not victims... but accomplices” -- George Orwell

“Fere libenter homines id quod volunt credunt." (The people gladly believe what they wish to.) ~Julius Caesar

“Describing the problem is quite different from knowing the solution. Except in politics." ~ OCS


ON FIRE WATCH

It's hard to think about politics as you face another regional disaster, especially living in a canyon... 

Fire-2
-- Steve


“Nullius in verba”-- take nobody's word for it!
"Acta non verba" -- actions not words

“Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.”-- George Bernard Shaw

“Progressive, liberal, Socialist, Marxist, Democratic Socialist -- they are all COMMUNISTS.”

“The key to fighting the craziness of the progressives is to hold them responsible for their actions, not their intentions.” – OCS

"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

“A people that elect corrupt politicians, imposters, thieves, and traitors are not victims... but accomplices” -- George Orwell

“Fere libenter homines id quod volunt credunt." (The people gladly believe what they wish to.) ~Julius Caesar

“Describing the problem is quite different from knowing the solution. Except in politics." ~ OCS


JUST ASKING...

The wind is howling…

We are in the middle of a major red-flag wind event with significant fire activity in the Pacific Palisades area between Santa Monica and Malibu, California.

Due to severe wind conditions, there are no fixed-wing fire tankers or water drops by fire-fighting helicopters.

The helicopters flying over the fire appear to be for command and control, spotting fire outbreaks caused by large-scale ember-casts, which can cause fire spotting up to five miles ahead of the fire, and directing on-ground hotshot hand crews.

So why is the United States Army orbiting the fire area with one of its intelligence-gathering helicopters?

Army

The Beech C-12 Huron is a military aircraft primarily used for intelligence gathering, particularly in the role of signals intelligence (SIGINT), allowing it to intercept and analyze communications, making it a valuable asset for gathering information on potential threats and enemy activity; it is often equipped with specialized sensors and systems to collect data on communication patterns and electronic signals, contributing significantly to military intelligence operations.

Given the terrorist activity in New Orleans, Louisiana, and Las Vegas, Nevada, is it possible that our enemies took advantage of a naturally occurring wind event to launch another terrorist attack?

Like I said, I am just asking.

We are so screwed.

-- Steve

 

8:00 p.m. UPDATE:  INTEL12 has departed the area and is now in the Sacramento, California area. No air assets flying.


“Nullius in verba”-- take nobody's word for it!
"Acta non verba" -- actions not words

“Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.”-- George Bernard Shaw

“Progressive, liberal, Socialist, Marxist, Democratic Socialist -- they are all COMMUNISTS.”

“The key to fighting the craziness of the progressives is to hold them responsible for their actions, not their intentions.” – OCS

"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

“A people that elect corrupt politicians, imposters, thieves, and traitors are not victims... but accomplices” -- George Orwell

“Fere libenter homines id quod volunt credunt." (The people gladly believe what they wish to.) ~Julius Caesar

“Describing the problem is quite different from knowing the solution. Except in politics." ~ OCS


JANUARY 6, 2025: THE END OF AN ERROR AND THE REIGN OF DEMOCRAT TERROR

119th Congress-vote
As we reach the end of an error, something unusual has occurred within the Democratic Party: a surprising silence surrounding the Certification of the 2024 election. For the first time in over three decades, since the 1989 contest between George H.W. Bush and Michael Dukakis, Democrats have refrained from challenging the Certification of voter results.

This silence speaks volumes, and perhaps it lies in internal Democrat party politics, strategic maneuvering, and the disenfranchisement of their own primary voters.

In 2024, the Democrats had an opportunity to stand by the will of their supporters. Instead, party leaders, particularly Nancy Pelosi and Chuck Schumer, played a pivotal role in knifing a corrupt, incompetent, senile Joe Biden—the candidate chosen by the voters. With a swift political maneuver, they replaced him with Kamala Harris, possibly the most unlikable presidential candidate since Hillary Clinton. Unlike Clinton, Harris was manifestly incompetent, incomprehensible, and downright stupid in matters of state.

Ironically, as the President of the Senate, Kamala Harris was forced to read aloud the official Certification of her own defeat, a stunning reminder of the backroom deals that denied her the Presidency. While Harris smiled through the moment, the tension beneath the surface was palpable. Despite her lackluster performance in the primaries, the decision to thrust Harris into the presidential race left many Democrats betrayed by the party supposed to represent their voices.

Adam “shit for brains” Schiff.

Yet, while the Democrats were quietly accepting the election’s Certification, one individual within the party could not stay silent—former Representative Adam Schiff. Now California’s junior senator, Schiff is notorious for his unwavering vocal presence, and he wasted no time begging for additional funds and making demands.

Known for his role in the Trump impeachment trials, liar, leaker, and perjurer, Schiff’s willingness to stir the pot on every issue leaves little room for nuance or diplomacy. Despite the peaceful passage of the election results, Schiff’s ability to stir up controversy remains undiminished, continuing to seek attention and, apparently, more financial backing.

January 6, 2025

AsfsStephen,

Few days in our country’s history have made as big of an impact on me, and on our democracy as January 6, 2021 — four years ago today.

I remember the January 6th attack on the Capitol like it was yesterday.

The sounds of the mob outside. Of insurrectionists storming the Capitol building and breaking doors and windows to get in. Of the whispers between members of Congress deciding how to protect ourselves.

[OCS: Not a single person has been charged with being an “insurrectionist.”  Many of those breaking doors and windows appear to be trained agitators, many coming from behind police lines into the crowd where they turned around and started agitating and breaking things.]

The sight of Capitol police officers running toward danger. Of my colleagues crouched on the floor, clutching masks to protect themselves from tear gas. Of thousands of protestors assaulting Capitol Police and desecrating the hallowed halls of Congress.

[OCS: It appears that numerous Capitol police officers opened doors and guided protesters into the Capitol while others simply walked away from protesters without any attempt to restore law and order. There was no tear gas used within the congressional chambers.]

You could sense the fear and the urgency. And the anger over what this mob was doing to overturn a free and fair election. And then, finally, once the fighting was over and we had fulfilled our duty to certify the election, the recognition that our democracy had survived, but barely.

[OCS: Democracy was never at risk from this unarmed band of rag-tag protesters, many simply walking around while taking selfies and souvenirs. If anything, after four years of analysis, this looks like a coordinated Democrat effort to suppress any challenges to electoral slates from states with demonstrable election inaccuracies.]

Stephen, I will remember that day for a long time. But I will also remember what my GOP colleagues in Congress did.

After the rioting and the mayhem, a majority of Republican members of Congress still voted to overturn the election. Still. 147 members of Congress — many of whom are still in office today. Insurrectionists, too. Albeit in suits and ties.

[OCS: Schiff does love that word, insurrectionists. A term that can legitimately be applied to Democrats who were conspiratorially colluding in a coup d'état.]

Since that day, we have seen continued threats to our Constitution and our democracy.

[OCS: The only “continued threats to our Constitution and our democracy” appear to becoming from the Democrat Party which stole the 2020 election.]

Our democracy was battered and bruised on January 6, 2021, and it has not yet recovered.

[OCS: There will be no recovery until the Democrats, Adam Schiff in particular, are held accountable for their seditious behavior.]

And Stephen, it’s not lost on me that today, as a U.S. Senator, I will be voting to certify the election results of the same man who incited the January 6 insurrection. Even though I disagree with him, even though he calls for my arrest and tries to smear me, I will vote to certify the election — because it’s the will of the American people, and I take this responsibility seriously.

[OCS: Because the “too big to rig” election results are overwhelming and constitute a mandate.]

January 6 will forever mark a somber day in our country’s history. The impacts of that horrific day still reverberate through the halls of Congress. But we will get through this difficult time in our history. America is a deeply resilient country filled with patriotic citizens who love our democracy, and those who do, vastly outnumber those trying to tear it down.

[OCS: Yes, they appear to be Republicans and others who have seen what the Democrats have wrought.]

Please take care of yourselves, and thank you for all your support during this pivotal time in our history.

— Adam

Donate

PAID FOR AND AUTHORIZED BY SCHIFF FOR SENATE

Bottom line…

The “too big to rig” 2024 election will go down in history, not for the fireworks of protest or drama that many expected but for the quiet acceptance of a political establishment that has decided to put its own priorities ahead of those who once demanded change. The Democrats may have been unusually silent, but the road ahead for the party is anything but quiet.

As we move forward with the Trump presidency, we must ask ourselves: will this silence signal the end of lawfare, or will it be, once again, the beginning of an even more virulent progressive communist democrat effort to destroy Donald Trump’s Presidency from within?

The answer may depend on whether the long-silenced “We the People” will find the courage to hold politicians and bureaucrats accountable for their actions.

But the honest answer is NO! as the progressive communist democrats try to cripple the Trump Presidency by challenging the confirmation of his appointees. And, of course, continue to kill electoral integrity with laws denying voter identification requirements.

Until then, we are so screwed.

-- Steve

TREASONOUS-TRIPLETS


“Nullius in verba”-- take nobody's word for it!
"Acta non verba" -- actions not words

“Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.”-- George Bernard Shaw

“Progressive, liberal, Socialist, Marxist, Democratic Socialist -- they are all COMMUNISTS.”

“The key to fighting the craziness of the progressives is to hold them responsible for their actions, not their intentions.” – OCS

"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

“A people that elect corrupt politicians, imposters, thieves, and traitors are not victims... but accomplices” -- George Orwell

“Fere libenter homines id quod volunt credunt." (The people gladly believe what they wish to.) ~Julius Caesar

“Describing the problem is quite different from knowing the solution. Except in politics." ~ OCS


JANUARY 6, 2025: WILL THE PROGRESSIVE COMMUNIST DEMOCRATS CERTIFY THE RESULTS OF THE 2024 ELECTION?

FLAG-GBUSA

Since the presidency of Barack Obama, the progressive communist democrats, their dodgy lawyers, and media propagandists have weaponized the electoral process against President Trump by characterizing the typical political bickering between the political parties as criminal activity. Throwing around the word "insurrection" to proclaim a political riot of the democrat's own making to be a prosecutable criminal assault on our government and the fabric of democracy.

The malformed Select Committee to Investigate the January 6th Attack on the United States Capitol was not only guilty of illegal activities but was literally a Hollywood production to stop the candidacy of former President Donald Trump and hold him accountable for actions beyond his immediate control. A Select Committee that has violated the law by altering evidence, suborning perjury, and destroying government documents, Prosecutable offenses that reach far beyond the lies told to the American public, which appear to be protected under the Speech and Debate Clause (Article 1, Section 6, Clause 1) of the U.S. Constitution.

Now, we are entering another era of politics that will see the cataclysmic changing of the political landscape in which progressive communist democrats could be held criminally liable for their past activities over the past twelve years.

An era that began with the reelection of Donald Trump, who has withstood two assassination attempts and billions of dollars of concerted effort to defeat him.

An era that now faces the electoral recertification process whereby the President is officially affirmed as the next President of the United States before the January 20, 2025, inaugural swearing-in ceremony.

Will the progressive communist democrats go quietly into the night and cede power peacefully?

What are the progressive communist democrats likely to do --especially those who vehemently opposed Trump, like those who participated in the various Trump impeachment trials or sat on the January 6 Committee?

Devilish Democrats 

1. First Impeachment (2019)

  • House Intelligence Committee (led by Chairman Adam Schiff):

    • Adam Schiff (California) - Chair of the committee - now a Senator
    • Eric Swalwell (California)
    • Val Demings (Florida) - Lost election
    • Denny Heck (Washington) - Retired
    • Terri Sewell (Alabama)
    • Jackie Speier (California) - Retired
    • Raja Krishnamoorthi (Illinois) - Lost election
    • Sean Patrick Maloney (New York) - Lost election
    • Sylvia Garcia (Texas)
    • Andre Carson (Indiana)
  • House Judiciary Committee (led by Chairman Jerry Nadler):

    • Jerry Nadler (New York) - Chair of the committee
    • Zoe Lofgren (California)
    • Hank Johnson (Georgia)
    • Jamie Raskin (Maryland)
    • Karen Bass (California) - Mayor of Los Angeles
    • Sheila Jackson Lee (Texas) - Deceased)
    • David Cicilline (Rhode Island) - Retired
    • Steve Cohen (Tennessee)
    • Pramila Jayapal (Washington)
    • Val Demings (Florida) - Lost election

2. Second Impeachment (2021)

  • House Impeachment Managers:
    • Jamie Raskin (Maryland) - Lead impeachment manager
    • Adam Schiff (California) - now a Senator
    • David Cicilline (Rhode Island) - Retired
    • Joe Neguse (Colorado)
    • Pramila Jayapal (Washington)
    • Joaquin Castro (Texas)
    • Eric Swalwell (California)

3. January 6th Committee (2021-2022)

  • Chairman:

    • Bennie Thompson (Mississippi) - Chair of the committee - Retired

  • Other Democratic Members:
    • Liz Cheney (Wyoming) – Lost election
    • Adam Schiff (California) - now a Senator
    • Zoe Lofgren (California)
    • Elaine Luria (Virginia) - Lost election
    • Pete Aguilar (California)
    • Stephanie Murphy (Florida) - Retired
    • Jamie Raskin (Maryland)

Republican Members Appointed by Nancy Pelosi

    • Liz Cheney (Wyoming) - Lost election
    • Adam Kinzinger – Retired

What's different this time?

Not only is the "election denier" label on the other foot but the Electoral Count Reform and Presidential Transition Improvement Act of 2022 was also signed into law. The law makes it more difficult to challenge an election by requiring 20% of lawmakers from each chamber to advance a challenge instead of just one senator and representative. Moreover, the law clarifies the role of the vice president as purely ceremonial during the certification process. 

Additionally, we will see increased security in the Capitol complex, including high fencing, extra police, and 500 National Guard soldiers on standby.

Even vocal Trump opponent Jamie "the red" Raskin has declared he will not challenge the election by telling another lie, “No election deniers on our side of the aisle. We don’t do that.” 

Bottom line...

How many progressive communist democrats will challenge the certification of electors or open up a lengthy debate trying to impugn the certification process?

And, how many progressive communist democrats will challenge the candidacy of Donald Trump based on claims he was an insurrectionist and barred from holding office?

We will have to wait and see, but it appears that nobody wants to poke the sleeping Trump bear and provoke a counterpunch. 

We are so screwed.

-- Steve


“Nullius in verba”-- take nobody's word for it!
"Acta non verba" -- actions not words

“Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.”-- George Bernard Shaw

“Progressive, liberal, Socialist, Marxist, Democratic Socialist -- they are all COMMUNISTS.”

“The key to fighting the craziness of the progressives is to hold them responsible for their actions, not their intentions.” – OCS

"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

“A people that elect corrupt politicians, imposters, thieves, and traitors are not victims... but accomplices” -- George Orwell

“Fere libenter homines id quod volunt credunt." (The people gladly believe what they wish to.) ~Julius Caesar

“Describing the problem is quite different from knowing the solution. Except in politics." ~ OCS


KENTUCKY'S REPUBLICAN "NO IT ALLS"

If you have wondered what's in the water that produces Kentucky legislators whose first inclination is to say "NO!" and screw the GOP, here is the answer, Mitch McConnell's own commemorative Old Crow Kentucky-made straight bourbon whiskey. 

KY-NO-IT-ALLS

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Representatives Rand Paul (R-KY) and Thomas Massie (R-KY).

Drunk or sober, we continued to be screwed by Kentucky legislators.

-- Steve


“Nullius in verba”-- take nobody's word for it!
"Acta non verba" -- actions not words

“Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.”-- George Bernard Shaw

“Progressive, liberal, Socialist, Marxist, Democratic Socialist -- they are all COMMUNISTS.”

“The key to fighting the craziness of the progressives is to hold them responsible for their actions, not their intentions.” – OCS

"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

“A people that elect corrupt politicians, imposters, thieves, and traitors are not victims... but accomplices” -- George Orwell

“Fere libenter homines id quod volunt credunt." (The people gladly believe what they wish to.) ~Julius Caesar

“Describing the problem is quite different from knowing the solution. Except in politics." ~ OCS


UPDATE ON DENNIS PRAGER

PRAGER

Conservative radio talk show host Dennis Prager is severely paralyzed with no movement of his arms and legs (quadriplegia)  after a home fall in November 2024 left him with a severe cervical vertebra (C3/C4) spinal cord injury.

He has a tracheostomy and wears a vented collar. The doctors are trying to gradually restore his breathing by weaning him from the complete mechanical ventilator and using a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) device. Over time, he will be able to speak and hopefully return to teaching and broadcasting.

There is hope for Dennis as the paralysis may be somewhat mitigated because Prager still has a sense of touch in portions of his extremities. And, 

For those wishing to pray for Prager’s complete recovery, his full Hebrew name is Shmuel Nechemia ben Hinda.

-- Steve


“Nullius in verba”-- take nobody's word for it!
"Acta non verba" -- actions not words

“Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.”-- George Bernard Shaw

“Progressive, liberal, Socialist, Marxist, Democratic Socialist -- they are all COMMUNISTS.”

“The key to fighting the craziness of the progressives is to hold them responsible for their actions, not their intentions.” – OCS

"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

“A people that elect corrupt politicians, imposters, thieves, and traitors are not victims... but accomplices” -- George Orwell

“Fere libenter homines id quod volunt credunt." (The people gladly believe what they wish to.) ~Julius Caesar

“Describing the problem is quite different from knowing the solution. Except in politics." ~ OCS


THE FBI NOW HAS ITS VERY OWN INCOMPETENT KARINE JEAN-PIERRE

Fbi-clouseuAnd just as incompetent as Presidential Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, we find FBI Spokesperson Alathea Duncan, the Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s New Orleans field office, at the podium confidently declaring the mass casualty event in New Orleans was not a terrorist attack.

ASAIC DUNCAN

“As Chief Kirkpatrick said we'll be taking over the investigative lead for this event. This is not a terrorist event. What it is right now is they're improvised explosive devices that was found and we are working on confirming if this is a viable device or not.”

You have to be dumb, stupid, and blind not to notice the dead, dying, and injured who were deliberately hit by a truck whose heavily armed driver dressed in camo emerged shooting – and the large ISIS flag on the back of the vehicle – and not conclude this was not only a terrorist attack, but an Islamic terrorist attack. That is, unless you are black, wearing braids, have a gold stud in your nose, and are preoccupied with political correctness and DEI.

FBI Spokesperson Alathea Duncan later went on to reverse her initial assessment…

The FBI is the lead investigative agency and we're investigating this as an attack of terrorism along with our partners.

Today at approximately 3.15 a.m. Central Standard Time, an individual drove a pickup truck into a crowd on Bourbon Street in New Orleans, killing at least 10 individuals and injuring dozens more. After hitting the crowd, he exited the vehicle and fired upon local law enforcement.

Law enforcement returned fire and the subject was pronounced deceased at the scene. Two law enforcement officers were injured and transported to local hospitals. The subject has been identified as 42-year-old Samsud Dim Jabbar, a U.S.-born citizen from Texas.

He was driving a Ford pickup truck, which appears to be rented, and we are working to confirm how the subject became in possession of this vehicle. An ISIS flag was located on the trailer hitch of the vehicle and the FBI is working to determine the subject's potential associations and affiliations with terrorist organizations. Weapons and potential improvised explosive devices, IEDs, were located in the subject's vehicle.

Other potential IEDs were also located in the French Quarter. As of now, two IEDs have been found and rendered safe. The FBI Special Agent Bomb Technicians, as well as our local law enforcement partners, have been working to determine if any of these devices are viable and they'll work to render those devices safe.

The FBI, we are working with our partners to investigate this as an act of terrorism. We're aggressively running down all the leads to identify the possible subject's associates. We're working to ensure that there is no further threat.

We do not believe that Jabbar was solely responsible. We are aggressively running down every lead, including those of his known associates. That's why we need the public's help.

We are asking if anybody has any interactions with Samsud Dim Jabbar in the last 72 hours, that you contact us. The FBI is asking the public's help. We're asking anyone who has information, video, or pictures to provide it to the FBI.

We have set up a digital tip line, as well as our 1-800 number, 1-800-CALL-FBI. Please provide us with any information that can assist us in this investigation.

Still no mention of Islamic terrorism!

However, the FBI updated the story to claim that no other suspects were involved in planting the bombs in New Orleans.

It appears that the Houston, Texas, Houston Masjid Bilal Mosque is directing its members to shun law enforcement and contact CAIR (Council on American-Islamic Relations), a known supporter of terrorism.

What To Know

In an Instagram story posted after the attacker's identity was announced, the Masjid Bilal condemned what it said were "terrible acts." It added, "If approached by the FBI and a response is necessary, please refer to CAIR and ISGH," referring to the Council on American-Islamic Relations and the Islamic Society of Greater Houston. <Source: Newsweek>

Bottom line…

How is it that the media arrived at the terrorist's home hours before the FBI? 

Where is the actual Special Agent in Charge of the New Orleans office, and how did this fool become the agency’s spokesperson?

How are we responding to the threat of Islamic terror cells within the United States and the ongoing radicalization of American prisoners and former soldiers without domestic surveillance that abridges constitutional rights?

How does Congress effectively conduct oversight on our nation’s intelligence and law enforcement agencies and begin holding individuals within those agencies accountable for their wrongful behavior?

And for those who celebrated the attack by marching in New York, they should be rounded up and deported if they are not American citizens. 

We are so screwed.

-- Steve


“Nullius in verba”-- take nobody's word for it!
"Acta non verba" -- actions not words

“Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.”-- George Bernard Shaw

“Progressive, liberal, Socialist, Marxist, Democratic Socialist -- they are all COMMUNISTS.”

“The key to fighting the craziness of the progressives is to hold them responsible for their actions, not their intentions.” – OCS

"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

“A people that elect corrupt politicians, imposters, thieves, and traitors are not victims... but accomplices” -- George Orwell

“Fere libenter homines id quod volunt credunt." (The people gladly believe what they wish to.) ~Julius Caesar

“Describing the problem is quite different from knowing the solution. Except in politics." ~ OCS


IS THAT A TERRORIST IN YOUR IT INFRASTRUCTURE?

TERRORIST-HACKER

Deloitte Confirms That the New Orleans Terror Attack Suspect Was an Employee of the Firm

Shamsud-Din Jabbar, the Army veteran who officials say carried out the terrorist attack at a New Year’s celebration in New Orleans early Wednesday, worked with consulting firm Deloitte, earning about $10,000 a month.

In a statement, Deloitte said Jabbar had “served in a staff-level role” since being hired in 2021 and that the company was doing all it could to assist authorities.

“We are shocked to learn of reports today that the individual identified as a suspect had any association with our firm,” Deloitte said in a statement to FOX Business Wednesday evening. “The named individual served in a staff-level role since being hired in 2021.”

The firm added, “Like everyone, we are outraged by this shameful and senseless act of violence and are doing all we can to assist authorities in their investigation.” <Source>

Terrorist-in-new-orleans-attack-appeared-to-work-at-deloitt

Bottom line...

We are so screwed.

-- Steve


“Nullius in verba”-- take nobody's word for it!
"Acta non verba" -- actions not words

“Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.”-- George Bernard Shaw

“Progressive, liberal, Socialist, Marxist, Democratic Socialist -- they are all COMMUNISTS.”

“The key to fighting the craziness of the progressives is to hold them responsible for their actions, not their intentions.” – OCS

"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

“A people that elect corrupt politicians, imposters, thieves, and traitors are not victims... but accomplices” -- George Orwell

“Fere libenter homines id quod volunt credunt." (The people gladly believe what they wish to.) ~Julius Caesar

“Describing the problem is quite different from knowing the solution. Except in politics." ~ OCS


IS THE NEW ORLEANS ATTACK BEING EXPLOITED?

Glass-darkly-usa
It is a bitch when you cannot trust your government and consider that corrupted intelligence and law enforcement agencies might be involved in a heinous false flag operation.

NEW YEAR SHOCK
ISIS TERROR ON BOURBON STREET
TRUCK RAMMING ATTACK

DRIVER: SHAMSUD DIN JABBAR
TEXAS NATIVE, FORMER ARMY
FBI: DID NOT ACT ALONE
15 DEAD, 25 HOSPITALIZED


TRUMP HOTEL TESLA CYBERTRUCK EXPLOSION PROBED AS POSSIBLE TERROR ACT AS VEHICLE WAS RENTED WITH SAME APP AS TRUCK FROM NEW ORLEANS MASSACRE

FBI SAYS IT THWARTED APPARENT PLOT AGAINST AIPAC

Considering what we saw in Waco, Ruby Ridge, Operation Fast and Furious, and several current events like the discovery of January 6 bombs near the DNC and RNC that have suspicious origins that suggest government malfeasance or active involvement, gives one pause.

What bothers me is this current massacre in New Orleans is a clear act of domestic terrorism, just as the government seeks additional domestic surveillance powers, and apparently involves ISIS, which is the justifying factor to keep government contractors, military assets, and arms shipments flowing in regions with little or no accountability for weapons or funds.

Conspiracy theory?

Syria eyes’ strategic’ ties with Ukraine, Kyiv vows more food aid shipments

Syria hopes for strategic partnerships with Ukraine, its new foreign minister told his Ukrainian counterpart on Monday, as Kyiv moves to build ties with the new Islamist rulers in Damascus amid waning Russian influence.

“There will be strategic partnerships between us and Ukraine on the political, economic and social levels, and scientific partnerships,” Syria’s newly appointed foreign minister, Asaad Hassan al-Shibani, told Ukrainian counterpart Andrii Sybiha.

“Certainly the Syrian people and the Ukrainian people have the same experience and the same suffering that we endured over 14 years,” he added, apparently drawing a parallel between Syria’s brutal 2011-24 civil war and Russia’s seizure of Ukrainian territory culminating in its full-scale 2022 invasion.

Sybiha, who also met Syria’s new de facto ruler Ahmed al-Sharaa in Damascus on Monday, said Ukraine would send more food aid shipments to Syria after the expected arrival of 20 shipments of flour on Tuesday. 

“It will be the right step to renew our diplomatic relations with Syria and our economic cooperation. I am very hopeful that post-Assad Syria will respect international law in a way that Assad could not and did not want to.”

Zelenskiy announced last Friday the dispatch of Ukraine’s first batch of food aid to Syria comprising 500 metric tons of wheat flour as part of Kyiv’s humanitarian “Grain from Ukraine” initiative in cooperation with the United Nations World Food Programme. <Source: Reuters>


A Blossoming Romance

Ukraine’s Foreign Minister just visited Damascus to meet the leader of the new terrorist regime in charge, now that the U.S. has removed the $10 million bounty on his head. It turns out Ukraine had long been assisting the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) fighters with intelligence and drones, presumably paid for by us. We had also directly been sending aid to a terrorist network which over the years had variously been ascribed to al-Qaeda, Jabhat al-Nusra, ISIS, or ISIL.

Once HTS triumphed over Assad, the terror killings commenced. The Western press has ignored this because it conflicts with the narrative that Assad was the only mass murderer in that nation. HTS founder and leader Abu Mohammed al-Jawlani (aka Jolani) fought Americans long ago under the al-Qaeda leader, Abu Musab Zarqawi in Iraq.

Bin Laden's associate Sheik Omar Abdel Rahman was given visas to enter the U.S. by the CIA. Egyptian officials testified that the CIA actively assisted him. Rahman plotted the 1993 World Trade Center bombing. Rahman died in a North Carolina prison in 2017. If the U.S. just created yet another monster in that region of the world, it would hardly be a first.  Read more...

WTF?

Where is Ukraine getting the money to finance such a generous offer while begging in the streets of Washington every chance they get? 

We know the current scumbags holding Syria are Islamic terrorists and have links to al-Qaeda and the Islamic State (ISIS), and the United States is pumping billions of untraceable dollars into Ukraine, even to the extent of paying their government worker’s pensions.

Marking sense?

We know that the CIA and State Department have been funneling arms to Syrian terrorists who have been fighting Assad since the outbreak of the Syrian Civil War in 2011. Pretty much the basis of the 2012 Benghazi attack on the Libyan weapons depot that killed U.S. Ambassador Chris Stevens and three civilians.

In 2013, the CIA initiated a covert program known as Timber Sycamore, which aimed to train and equip Syrian opposition forces to counter Assad’s military. This program involved significant clandestine support, including providing weapons training in small arms, military tactics, and other forms of resistance.

We know that the CIA and State Department were active in Ukrainian political affairs and complicit in precipitating the Ukraine color revolution in 2014.

We still do not know about the wounded in Benghazi other than everybody signed non-disclosure agreements. We don’t know where Obama was during the attack or who issued the stand-down order to the military rescue operations.

A parting present from the progressive communist democrats and their terrorist sympathizers. 

Hundreds March for ‘Intifada’ in NYC

Hours After Attacks in New Orleans, Las Vegas

’We Will Honor our Martyrs’

Bottom line…

Is this business as usual? A last vestige of the Biden Administration’s reach for money and power?

Is this a prelude to the Congressional certification of President-elect Donald Trump on January, 2025?

As for the FBI, THEY HAVE an excellent track record in finding people who plant pipe bombs! Why are they withholding the footage again?

We are so screwed.

-- Steve


“Nullius in verba”-- take nobody's word for it!
"Acta non verba" -- actions not words

“Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.”-- George Bernard Shaw

“Progressive, liberal, Socialist, Marxist, Democratic Socialist -- they are all COMMUNISTS.”

“The key to fighting the craziness of the progressives is to hold them responsible for their actions, not their intentions.” – OCS

"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

“A people that elect corrupt politicians, imposters, thieves, and traitors are not victims... but accomplices” -- George Orwell

“Fere libenter homines id quod volunt credunt." (The people gladly believe what they wish to.) ~Julius Caesar

“Describing the problem is quite different from knowing the solution. Except in politics." ~ OCS


HAPPY NEW YEAR 2025

 

Wishing you and yours ... health, peace, and prosperity. -- Steve


“Nullius in verba”-- take nobody's word for it!
"Acta non verba" -- actions not words

“Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.”-- George Bernard Shaw

“Progressive, liberal, Socialist, Marxist, Democratic Socialist -- they are all COMMUNISTS.”

“The key to fighting the craziness of the progressives is to hold them responsible for their actions, not their intentions.” – OCS

"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

“A people that elect corrupt politicians, imposters, thieves, and traitors are not victims... but accomplices” -- George Orwell

“Fere libenter homines id quod volunt credunt." (The people gladly believe what they wish to.) ~Julius Caesar

“Describing the problem is quite different from knowing the solution. Except in politics." ~ OCS


APPROACHING THE NEW YEAR


Chaos
As we approach the new year and an unknown political environment, it pays to carefully consider your own future and that of your family without getting too wound up in partisan politics.

The most critical self-evident ideas:

1.  Change is constant. It is dangerous to believe tomorrow will be the same as today. Consider and prepare for the unexpected.

2.  You must preserve your health at all costs and before considering material things.

3.  Embrace a minimalist outlook where your expenses exceed your income.

4.  Job loyalty is dead. Try to develop multiple independent revenue streams and continually upgrade your skills.

5.  Politics is not entertainment nor a team sport.

6.  The most deadly decision-making comes from peer pressure from those with unknown or impure motives.

Political promises often have unintended consequences and unforeseen costs, usually paid for by people other than those who profit from them.

The Hidden Costs of Political Promises

Political promises often sound alluring—solutions to problems that seem to offer a better future. However, these promises frequently come with unintended consequences and unforeseen costs. What begins as a well-meaning pledge to improve lives can spiral into a cascade of adverse side effects that ripple through society.

The most glaring issue is that the burden of these costs often falls on those who stand to gain the least. While the political elites or corporations that benefit from such policies may enjoy financial or power gains, it’s the everyday citizens and consumers who end up paying the price—whether through higher taxes, increased cost of living, or social disruptions.

In some cases, politicians may make promises without fully understanding the long-term ramifications or the systems' complexity. This results in policies that can hurt vulnerable groups, foster inequality, or create dependency. The ultimate irony is that the very people meant to be helped are often the ones left carrying the financial and social burdens.

The Wisdom of "Easier Said Than Done"

One of the most enduring pieces of wisdom comes from the old proverb, "easier said than done." This phrase highlights the gap between political leaders' idealized promises and the complex reality of implementation. Crafting policies in a speech or manifesto is one thing, but making them work in the real world is an entirely different challenge. The process is often more complicated than anticipated, with factors like bureaucratic inefficiencies, budget constraints, and resistance from various stakeholders creating obstacles.

It’s easy to promise sweeping changes or quick fixes to complex problems, but the consequences of those promises often reveal themselves only after they’ve been put into action. The wisdom behind "easier said than done" is a reminder that the road from idealism to reality is fraught with challenges. This is why political promises must be evaluated carefully—not just for their potential benefits but for their feasibility and the hidden costs they may bring.

The Danger of Delegation: Politicians Who Believe Defining a Problem is Tantamount to Solving It

Another critical issue is the tendency of some politicians to equate defining a problem with solving it. In the rush to demonstrate action and decisiveness, politicians may present an issue in simplistic terms, believing that labeling a problem is the first step toward resolution. However, defining a problem is only the beginning of a much longer and more nuanced process.

When politicians treat problem definition as a solution, they often overlook the deeper, systemic causes that require comprehensive, thoughtful approaches. This can lead to rushed policies that fail to address the root issues, focusing instead on symptoms or short-term fixes. These superficial solutions often create more harm than good, leaving the real problem unaddressed and causing new issues.

The danger here is not just a failure to solve the problem at hand but the erosion of public trust. When people realize that politicians are more focused on appearances or quick wins than genuine solutions, it can lead to disillusionment and cynicism, ultimately undermining the democratic process.

Bottom line…

It’s essential to question oversimplifying challenges and the sustainability of political promises, first considering who truly bears the costs.

As citizens of this exceptional nation, staying informed and demanding transparency from our leaders is crucial to ensure that the price of progress doesn't unfairly fall on the most vulnerable.

By recognizing the limits of promises, respecting the complexity of real-world solutions, and calling for leaders committed to genuine problem-solving, we can begin to navigate the tricky terrain of politics with a clearer understanding of the consequences at stake.

Until then, we are so screwed.

-- Steve


“Nullius in verba”-- take nobody's word for it!
"Acta non verba" -- actions not words

“Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.”-- George Bernard Shaw

“Progressive, liberal, Socialist, Marxist, Democratic Socialist -- they are all COMMUNISTS.”

“The key to fighting the craziness of the progressives is to hold them responsible for their actions, not their intentions.” – OCS

"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

“A people that elect corrupt politicians, imposters, thieves, and traitors are not victims... but accomplices” -- George Orwell

“Fere libenter homines id quod volunt credunt." (The people gladly believe what they wish to.) ~Julius Caesar

“Describing the problem is quite different from knowing the solution. Except in politics." ~ OCS


JIMMY CARTER DEAD: WHO CARES?

CARTER-LOSER

The truth about the recently deceased Jimmy Carter is not pretty.

He was the worst president in modern history-- until Barack Obama assumed the position, and now Carter is looking even better with the title now being passed to the evil, corrupt, senile Joe Biden. All Democrats!

Carter was an anti-Semite, hated Israel, and was the father of Iranian Islamo-Fascism and terror, which brought suffering and death to hundreds of thousands of people.

Carter’s foreign (Iran, Afghanistan, Panama Canal, North Korea, anti-Israel) and domestic (stagflation, energy crisis, unemployment) policies were disasters.

Carter’s premier success was the Camp David Accords, which ended the overt war between Israel and Egypt—and resulted in the assassination of Egyptian President Anwar Sadat. Carter received the Nobel Peace Prize for his effectors, unlike Obama, who received his prize without any accomplishments.

Carter wrote the one-sided anti-Semitic polemic, Palestine: Peace Not Apartheid,  a vigorous attack on Israel wherein Carter blamed all Middle East woes solely on Israel and altered basic facts, implying that terrorism should continue until Israel accepted the goals of the “road map” to peace with Palestinians.

Bottom line…

Perhaps the best thing about Jimmy Carter is that he was patriotic and served his nation as a Lieutenant in the Navy.

Other than that. I don’t give a rat’s ass about Jimmy Carter’s passing or his legacy.

We are so screwed.

-- Steve

 

 


“Nullius in verba”-- take nobody's word for it!
"Acta non verba" -- actions not words

“Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.”-- George Bernard Shaw

“Progressive, liberal, Socialist, Marxist, Democratic Socialist -- they are all COMMUNISTS.”

“The key to fighting the craziness of the progressives is to hold them responsible for their actions, not their intentions.” – OCS

"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

“A people that elect corrupt politicians, imposters, thieves, and traitors are not victims... but accomplices” -- George Orwell

“Fere libenter homines id quod volunt credunt." (The people gladly believe what they wish to.) ~Julius Caesar

“Describing the problem is quite different from knowing the solution. Except in politics." ~ OCS


DEMOCRATS: AN EXISTENTIAL THREAT TO OUR NATION

Gun-to-head-uncle-sam

I have been struggling to make sense of the political and societal chaos we are now experiencing.

How can a political party put up a candidate with overt communist tendencies, another candidate who is manifestly corrupt and is demonstrably mentally challenged, and a vapid candidate who promotes communist solutions to social and economic issues but is so inarticulate that she makes little sense?

Likewise, how can this political party oppose an opposition candidate with such ferocity that it borders on the criminal abuse of power and the manifest violation of the candidate’s civil rights?

Are we living in a world gone mad, governed by corrupt idiots, or is there a master plan at work?

What it is that I believe we are seeing.

I believe that we are witnessing the progressive communist democrats redefining “democracy” from the consent of the governed to the consent of the governors and the weaponization of institutions to prosecute and persecute their opposition.

Democracy, as traditionally understood, is founded on the principle of the “consent of the governed.” This idea, deeply rooted in Enlightenment thinking and championed by political philosophers like John Locke, asserts that legitimate political power arises from the will and agreement of the people. It is the essence of democratic governance: a system where individuals collectively choose their leaders and, by extension, the policies that will shape their lives.

However, in recent times, there has been a subtle yet significant shift in how democracy is practiced and perceived. Under the progressive communist Democrats, we see the locus of power and decision-making move from the consensus of individuals to the consensus of institutions. This transformation could be described as the rise of the “consent of the governors.”

The Continuing Shift to Institutional Consensus

Institutions—governmental bodies, international organizations, or private corporations—have always played a vital role in shaping society. But in modern democracies, their influence has grown to the point where they often set the agenda, define policy options, and even shape public opinion. Several factors drive this shift:

  • Complexity of Governance: As societies become more complex, the issues they face—such as climate change, economic globalization, and technological disruption—require expertise and coordination that surpass the capacity of the average citizen. Institutions are increasingly seen as the best equipped to address these challenges with their specialized knowledge and resources.
  • Institutional Trust vs. Public Distrust: While trust in traditional democratic processes and elected officials has eroded in many parts of the world, institutions (such as central banks, courts, and regulatory agencies) are often viewed as more stable and reliable. This trust in institutions, however, comes at the cost of sidelining public input and reducing the transparency of decision-making processes.
  • Globalization and Supranational Governance: In an interconnected world, many decisions are made at the global or regional level through institutions like the European Union, the United Nations, or the World Trade Organization. These bodies operate with a degree of autonomy from direct public oversight, further shifting the balance of power from individuals to institutions.
  • Corporate Influence and Public-Private Partnerships: The growing influence of large corporations and the blurring lines between the public and private sectors have also contributed to this shift. Through lobbying and public-private partnerships, corporate entities and industry groups often have a significant say in policy decisions, reflecting a form of governance by consent among influential stakeholders rather than the broader populace.

Implications of This Shift

The movement from a democracy based on the consent of the governed to one focused on the consent of the governors has profound implications:

  • Erosion of Public Agency: As decision-making is increasingly centralized within institutions, the average citizen’s role in shaping policy diminishes. This can lead to feelings of disenfranchisement and apathy, weakening the very foundation of democratic governance.
  • Institutional Accountability: While institutions may possess expertise, their accountability to the public is often limited. Decisions made behind closed doors can lack transparency, leading to policies that serve the interests of a few rather than the many.
  • Redefinition of Legitimacy: Traditional democratic legitimacy comes from the electoral process and public participation. However, as institutions gain power, legitimacy is increasingly derived from expertise, efficiency, and outcomes—criteria that may not always align with the will of the people.
  • Reframing Democracy for the Modern Age is little more than deconstructing our representative republic and capitalist economic system for an authoritarian society akin to that in Communist China. 

Bottom line…

The progressive communist democrats would have you believe that freedom and democracy are not static concepts but concepts and constructs that evolve with the times. They view the Constitution and Bill of Rights not as restrictions on government power but as enabling authority to control every aspect of American lives to benefit society as a whole. And that society encompasses individuals and institutions outside our borders.

As we speak, the progressive communist democrats are setting the groundwork for challenging electors, state by state, the very action they circumvented with their January “Fedsurrection.”

To say we are well and truly screwed if we fail to capture unassailable majorities in Congress and succumb to progressive communist democrat lawfare is an understatement.

-- Steve


“Nullius in verba”-- take nobody's word for it!
"Acta non verba" -- actions not words

“Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.”-- George Bernard Shaw

“Progressive, liberal, Socialist, Marxist, Democratic Socialist -- they are all COMMUNISTS.”

“The key to fighting the craziness of the progressives is to hold them responsible for their actions, not their intentions.” – OCS

"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

“A people that elect corrupt politicians, imposters, thieves, and traitors are not victims... but accomplices” -- George Orwell

“Fere libenter homines id quod volunt credunt." (The people gladly believe what they wish to.) ~Julius Caesar

“Describing the problem is quite different from knowing the solution. Except in politics." ~ OCS


TYRANNY OF THE JUDICIAR: ROGUE ACTIVIST JUDGES

When we think of political corruption, we think about corrupt politicians pandering to special interests. It is time to think about corrupt judges pandering to a partisan political agenda.

Lady-justice-b
The Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has said the quiet part out loud…

Playbook: How Schumer is prepping for Trump 2.0

In less than a month, elected Democrats will find themselves with a lot less power in Washington, with a GOP-controlled House, Senate and White House resulting in a landscape in which their ability to tussle with President-elect Donald Trump will be largely rhetorical.

But if Dem leaders have learned one thing from Republicans over the years, it’s that sometimes, the judiciary can be the best bulwark against the opposing party getting what it wants. As our Anthony Adragna reported Friday, Senate Democrats have approved 235 of Biden’s judicial picks, eclipsing Trump’s 234 first-term judicial nominations.

I don’t know exactly what [Trump will] do. But I can tell you this: The judiciary will be one of our strongest — if not our strongest — barrier against what he does,” Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer told Playbook in an exclusive interview this week.

Four years ago, Schumer launched a plan (along with President Joe Biden) to use the party’s Senate majority to prioritize not just passing legislation, but also pushing through as many judicial nominations as possible.

The result?

“When we started out, we knew it would be a very difficult job to do more than Trump had done,” said Schumer. “But we did: We got 235 — more than a quarter of the federal judiciary was appointed by our Senate and by the president.” <Source>

Federal Judges -- unaccountable to voters become the de facto policymakers.

In recent years, the power of federal judges in the United States has grown significantly. These appointed officials wield the authority to shape policy, interpret laws, and even challenge elected representatives’ decisions. However, this concentrated power has led to rogue, out-of-control activist judges who overstep their judicial boundaries, making decisions that align more with personal ideology than constitutional interpretation.

The One-Man Rule: Federal Judges and Their Dominance.

The “one-man rule” refers to the power of a single federal judge to make far-reaching decisions that can override laws passed by Congress or executive actions taken by the President. This has been observed in various contentious issues, from immigration policies to environmental regulations, where individual judges, often with lifetime appointments, can halt or alter policies for entire regions or the nation.

A case in point is the proliferation of district court judges issuing nationwide injunctions that block or alter federal policies. These decisions, while legally binding in the context of the particular case, can set a dangerous precedent when a single judge disrupts a national policy, leaving the issue to be determined by appeals courts or, ultimately, the Supreme Court.

Remedies for Judicial Overreach.

Several practical remedies must be put in place to counterbalance the rise of rogue judges and restore a fair balance of power. Here are some key strategies:

1. Limiting Injunctions by Federal Judges

One of the most controversial practices in recent years is federal judges’ frequent use of nationwide injunctions. These injunctions are often issued at the district court level, with the potential to halt or modify sweeping national policies. A reform to limit the scope of these injunctions could be a significant step toward curbing the overreach of individual judges.

Proposals to restrict nationwide injunctions and ensure that their application is only for the direct parties involved—rather than applying broadly across the nation—could help prevent judicial rulings from becoming de facto law. This reform would prevent a single judge from derailing policies carefully debated and approved by elected representatives.

2. Term Limits for Judges

Another controversial suggestion is the introduction of term limits for federal judges. Judges, especially those in the federal system, are appointed for life, leading to an entrenched judiciary that may become more ideologically driven over time. Term limits would reduce the concentration of power in the hands of unelected officials and allow for a more regular turnover of judicial power. A potential solution could involve imposing a fixed tenure, such as 18 years for Supreme Court justices, ensuring a balanced opportunity for Presidents to appoint judges.

3. Greater Judicial Accountability

While judges are meant to interpret laws impartially, accountability mechanisms could be strengthened to address concerns about over-litigating partisan regulations. Introducing mechanisms for greater transparency in decision-making could ensure that judges remain committed to interpreting the law rather than making policy through judicial activism.

One such safeguard might involve more robust ethical oversight, including a review process for judicial decisions with significant political implications. Judges who consistently exhibit overreach or partisan tendencies could be subject to an independent review board to assess their actions and consider possible remedies for judicial misconduct.

4. Congressional Oversight

While the judiciary is intended to remain independent, it is still an arm of government that must serve the interests of the public and the Constitution. Congress could pass laws to limit judicial overreach, set more explicit boundaries on federal judicial authority, and prevent the judicial system from being used for partisan litigation. Congress already has the power to impeach judges, which is rarely used.

Stronger oversight could include congressional hearings to review the judicial impact on laws and policies, especially when cases involve contentious issues like abortion, climate change, or executive authority. Additionally, more oversight of judicial nominations, including more explicit standards on judicial philosophy, could reduce partisan influence in the appointment process.

5. Streamlining and Limiting Legal Challenges

The growing influence of activist legal organizations has contributed to the rise of over-litigating partisan issues. Judges have become the final arbiter of issues that might have been better settled through democratic processes or legislative compromise. Introducing reforms to limit the number of times cases can be brought forward on the same issue (reducing forum shopping) or requiring stronger standing requirements for plaintiffs could mitigate unnecessary or partisan-driven lawsuits.

Primer on Impeaching a Federal Judge

Impeaching a federal judge in the United States is a serious and complex process that requires specific grounds. According to the U.S. Constitution, federal judges can be impeached for committing “high crimes and misdemeanors.” This term is somewhat broad, but it generally includes the following grounds:

  1. Criminal Conduct: A federal judge may be impeached for engaging in illegal activities, such as bribery, fraud, perjury, or other criminal acts that undermine the integrity of the judicial system.

  2. Corruption: Judges can be impeached if they engage in acts of corruption, including accepting bribes or other forms of improper influence that affect their impartiality or decision-making.

  3. Abuse of Power: This includes a judge using their position to exercise authority in an unlawful or excessively partisan manner, such as ruling in favor of personal interests or to the detriment of justice.

  4. Misconduct or Ethical Violations: Serious breaches of judicial ethics, such as prejudice or bias in rulings, discriminatory behavior, or gross violations of professional conduct, can form the basis for impeachment.

  5. Gross Incompetence or Failure to Perform Duties: Judges who are grossly incompetent or fail to perform their duties effectively may be impeached. This can include consistent failure to deliver timely rulings or other forms of neglect.

  6. Impairment or Disability: In some cases, if a judge becomes mentally or physically impaired to the point of being unable to perform their judicial duties, this can be grounds for impeachment, although other legal procedures like medical retirement might also address it.

The Impeachment Process

Impeachment of a federal judge follows the same basic process as that for a President or other federal officials:

  1. House of Representatives: Impeachment begins with the House of Representatives, which must approve articles of impeachment (by a simple majority vote).
  2. Senate Trial: If the House votes to impeach, the process moves to the Senate, where a trial is held. The Senate serves as the jury, and the Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court presides over the trial if the impeachment involves the President, but a senior senator would preside if a judge is impeached.
  3. Conviction and Removal: To remove the judge from office, a two-thirds majority in the Senate is required to convict the judge.

While impeachment is rare, it has occurred a few times in U.S. history, demonstrating that these proceedings are typically reserved for serious violations of the public trust.

Since Congress created the federal court system, Congress has the power to reform the rules, which creates an artificial imbalance of power in our legal system.

The framework for the federal judiciary, established by Article III of the U.S. Constitution, drafted in 1787 and ratified in 1788, provides the structure and authority for the judicial branch of the U.S. government, outlining the powers and duties of the federal courts.

More specifically, Section 1 establishes the judicial branch and vests the “judicial power” of the United States in one Supreme Court and in such inferior courts as Congress may, from time to time, ordain and establish. While the Constitution established the structure of the federal judiciary, the Judiciary Act of 1789 implemented the specifics and set up the federal court system in practice.

The Act’s provisions also created 13 district courts (one for each state at the time) and 3 circuit courts, which were designed to handle cases in smaller regions before they were appealed to the Supreme Court, along with defining the jurisdiction of the courts, the process for selecting federal judges, and other aspects such as the structure of the court system.

As of 2024, the United States has 94 federal district courts. These courts serve as the general trial courts of the federal system.

The issue is that a district judge may issue a nationwide temporary restraining order (TRO) or injunction to block a federal regulation, executive order, or practice that affects people across the country, especially when the issue involves constitutional rights or federal policy. The matter stands until it is nullified by the issuing judge or reversed by the U.S. Court of Appeals or the United States Supreme Court.

Unfortunately, the most serious cases are handled by the manifestly corrupt D.C. Circuit, which handles cases related to federal administrative agencies, among other matters.

Bottom line….

I am positive that when our Founding Fathers crafted the Constitution and created co-equal branches of government, they did not anticipate Congress creating an all-powerful federal judiciary that could defeat the will of the people, albeit temporarily, based on one man’s rulings have seen the politicians, especially the progressive communist democrats, weaponize our justice system and the effects of lawfare. 

The balance between the branches of government is critical for a thriving democracy. The current concentration of power in the hands of federal judges can skew this balance, threatening to undermine the principles of democratic representation. By enacting reforms to limit the power of rogue judges, introduce term limits, strengthen accountability, and streamline litigation, the United States can ensure that the judicial branch serves its constitutional role without becoming an unchecked force for partisan activism.

Ultimately, the antidotes to rogue judges and over-litigating partisan rules lie in restoring a system where elected officials and voters maintain greater control over the political process. Only then can we achieve a system of governance that genuinely reflects the will of the people.

As of now, we are so screwed as the Judiciary usurps the role of Congress, much like a lazy and corrupt Congress has ceded lawmaking to federal agencies in the Executive Branch.

-- Steve


“Nullius in verba”-- take nobody's word for it!
"Acta non verba" -- actions not words

“Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.”-- George Bernard Shaw

“Progressive, liberal, Socialist, Marxist, Democratic Socialist -- they are all COMMUNISTS.”

“The key to fighting the craziness of the progressives is to hold them responsible for their actions, not their intentions.” – OCS

"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

“A people that elect corrupt politicians, imposters, thieves, and traitors are not victims... but accomplices” -- George Orwell

“Fere libenter homines id quod volunt credunt." (The people gladly believe what they wish to.) ~Julius Caesar

“Describing the problem is quite different from knowing the solution. Except in politics." ~ OCS


YOUR FUNNY FOR TODAY...

Behar1

To describe Whoopi Goldberg as an intellectual thought leader, Joy Behar as a comedian, or individuals on "The View" as possessing common sense is to ignore reality.

In a classic self-own, the harridans on "The View" told their increasingly vanishing audience, "Harris could have won if we could regulate social media."

That's it, you stupid bitches; the way to win a free and open election is to impose authoritarian, regime-top-down censorship, which suppresses free speech and debate.

Right! It's the rogue corporations and Elon Musk that is the real problem.

Why this program is under the banner of ABC's "News Division" is beyond belief.

Kermit Fartingcows Trump Last

We are so screwed.

-- Steve


“Nullius in verba”-- take nobody's word for it!
"Acta non verba" -- actions not words

“Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.”-- George Bernard Shaw

“Progressive, liberal, Socialist, Marxist, Democratic Socialist -- they are all COMMUNISTS.”

“The key to fighting the craziness of the progressives is to hold them responsible for their actions, not their intentions.” – OCS

"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

“A people that elect corrupt politicians, imposters, thieves, and traitors are not victims... but accomplices” -- George Orwell

“Fere libenter homines id quod volunt credunt." (The people gladly believe what they wish to.) ~Julius Caesar

“Describing the problem is quite different from knowing the solution. Except in politics." ~ OCS


KWANZAA: THE KOMMUNIST KRISTMAS BASED ON MARXIST IDENTITY POLITICS

KWANZAA-KROCK

Based on Marxist identity politics, Kwanzaa is a week-long celebration from December 26 to January 1 each year.

Kwanzaa was artificially created in 1966 by Maulana “Ron” Karenga (born Ronald McKinley Everett), a militant communist associated with the black power movement of the 1960s and 1970s and posing as an African American scholar and activist.

Kwanzaa, emphasizing black cultural identity, racial pride, and self-sufficiency, was always about empowering certain black leaders, fundraising, and building political coalitions based on racial grievances.

Karenga was involved in a horrendous criminal episode involving the torture of two women stemming from his authoritarian leadership role in the Black Nationalist group known as the “US Organization.”

Ron Karenga is another nasty dude with top-notch academic credentials…

In 1971, two women who were members of Karenga’s “US Organization” became involved in a dispute with him. According to reports, the women were accused of disloyalty to Karenga and the organization. The exact nature of their alleged offenses is disputed, but they were believed to have been accused of working with a rival faction or expressing dissent against Karenga’s leadership.

Karenga, in an apparent effort to assert control over his followers and discipline the women, reportedly ordered them to be tortured. They were held captive and subjected to severe physical abuse, which included being beaten, electrically shocked, and forced into painful and humiliating positions. The two women later reported the abuse to the authorities.

Karenga was arrested and charged with felony assault, including false imprisonment, assault with a deadly weapon, and torture. The case received significant media attention because of Karenga’s status as a prominent Black nationalist leader and the extreme nature of the allegations.

In 1975, Karenga was convicted on two felony counts of assault and torture and was sentenced to one to ten years in prison. He served about four years in prison before being released on parole in 1979.

While in prison, Karenga continued to study and write. After his release, he reintegrated into academic life, earning a position as a professor at UCLA in the Department of Africana Studies, a hotbed of radical communist activism. Over the years, Karenga has maintained his position as an influential intellectual and the founder of Kwanza with progressive communist democrats.

Bottom line…

Kwanzaa is an artificial creation and all about identity politics, the further division of America along racial lines, and the empowerment of radical authoritarian black leaders with unlimited power in their respective black communities.

For those who find inspiration in its teaching of self-reliance, remember this was the same message of the militant Black Panthers and mirrors the philosophy of Louis Farrakhan’s Nation of Islam.

Worship what you want, but it is time to put aside the hyphenated American and concentrate on being Americans in an exceptional America.

Until then, we are screwed.

-- Steve


“Nullius in verba”-- take nobody's word for it!
"Acta non verba" -- actions not words

“Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.”-- George Bernard Shaw

“Progressive, liberal, Socialist, Marxist, Democratic Socialist -- they are all COMMUNISTS.”

“The key to fighting the craziness of the progressives is to hold them responsible for their actions, not their intentions.” – OCS

"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

“A people that elect corrupt politicians, imposters, thieves, and traitors are not victims... but accomplices” -- George Orwell

“Fere libenter homines id quod volunt credunt." (The people gladly believe what they wish to.) ~Julius Caesar

“Describing the problem is quite different from knowing the solution. Except in politics." ~ OCS


MERRY CHRISTMAS 2024

To all my readers…  Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! 

I'd like to take this opportunity to wish you and your loved ones the very best for the coming Holiday Season.

To everyone else…  

Please accept with no obligation, expressed or implied, my best wishes for an environmentally conscious, socially responsible, low-stress, non-addictive, gender-neutral celebration of the winter solstice holiday, practiced within the most enjoyable traditions of the religious persuasion of your choice, or secular practices of your choice, with respect for the religious/secular persuasion and/or traditions of others, or their choice not to practice religious or secular traditions at all. I also wish you a fiscally successful, personally fulfilling, and medically uncomplicated recognition of the onset of the generally accepted calendar year 2023, but not without due respect for the calendars of choice of other cultures whose contributions to society have helped make America great. This is, of course, neither to suggest nor imply that America is necessarily greater than any other country; also, this is not to imply that "America," as noted herein, is the only America in the Western Hemisphere. May these heartfelt wishes be received with equal intensity regardless of distribution of individual wealth, documented carbon footprint, or perceived social privilege among the wishes addressed herein. This wish is made without regard to the race, creed, color, age, physical ability, religious faith, or sexual preference of the wish.

Enjoy!

Happy Holidays...

Let us, for a moment, forget the political and financial catastrophes that have befallen our nation and concentrate on family and friends.

And most importantly, let us not forget those who have protected our nation and who stand watch over our celebration.

ArmedServices-MIA

-- Steve


“Nullius in verba”-- take nobody's word for it!
"Acta non verba" -- actions not words

“Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.”-- George Bernard Shaw

“Progressive, liberal, Socialist, Marxist, Democratic Socialist -- they are all COMMUNISTS.”

“The key to fighting the craziness of the progressives is to hold them responsible for their actions, not their intentions.” – OCS

"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

“A people that elect corrupt politicians, imposters, thieves, and traitors are not victims... but accomplices” -- George Orwell

“Fere libenter homines id quod volunt credunt." (The people gladly believe what they wish to.) ~Julius Caesar

“Describing the problem is quite different from knowing the solution. Except in politics." ~ OCS


HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO ALL

Happy-holidays
For my best friend Al, who insists on a happy blog post...  

Oh, what a day, so bright and blue,
The squirrels are singing, how about you?
The clouds are dancing in a huddle,
And the raccoons are wearing hats to cuddle.

I found a sock that’s full of cheese,
It squeaked at me—oh, such a tease!
The moon is wearing purple shoes,
And all the fishes sing the blues!

I met a toaster in the park,
It told me jokes till it was dark.
The butter smiled and waved goodbye,
As a flying sandwich zoomed on by.

So here’s my blog, as sweet as pie,
With singing hats and a butterfly.
Don’t think too hard, just let it flow,
For happy nonsense is the way to go!

 

Have a safe and healthy holiday season.


“Nullius in verba”-- take nobody's word for it!
"Acta non verba" -- actions not words

“Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.”-- George Bernard Shaw

“Progressive, liberal, Socialist, Marxist, Democratic Socialist -- they are all COMMUNISTS.”

“The key to fighting the craziness of the progressives is to hold them responsible for their actions, not their intentions.” – OCS

"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

“A people that elect corrupt politicians, imposters, thieves, and traitors are not victims... but accomplices” -- George Orwell

“Fere libenter homines id quod volunt credunt." (The people gladly believe what they wish to.) ~Julius Caesar

“Describing the problem is quite different from knowing the solution. Except in politics." ~ OCS


THE FLORIDA JUDICIAL MODEL: LAZY, EFFICIENT, OR DANGEROUS?

Judge

There is no question that Florida’s judicial model is somewhat unique, but the question remains: is it based on laziness, and can it be dangerous?

Florida’s judicial model, where judges sometimes ask parties to submit their own versions of rulings for signature, is relatively unusual in the United States but not entirely unique. While other states have practices that delegate some decision-making tasks to attorneys, the specific practice of judges relying heavily on party-drafted orders is more pronounced in Florida.

Some states may allow attorneys to draft proposed orders, especially in routine or uncontested matters, but it is less common for judges to sign these without significant review or modification. Florida’s model stands out due to how frequently this practice is employed, especially in civil and family law cases, and how often judges may sign the version submitted by one party rather than writing a comprehensive opinion themselves.

This practice is part of a broader trend in judicial systems across the U.S. for managing heavy caseloads. Still, the reliance on party-submitted rulings is more pronounced in Florida than in most other states.

There is no doubt that this is an unusual practice that has sparked both curiosity and controversy.

The Tradition Explained

In many states, a judge takes time to write their own opinion after hearing a case. This opinion, whether a ruling on a motion, a summary judgment, or a verdict, represents the judge’s independent assessment of the law, the facts, and the parties involved. However, in Florida, particularly in certain civil and family court cases, judges sometimes take a different approach. Rather than writing their own ruling, they ask the attorneys for each party to submit proposed orders or judgments.

Once these submissions are reviewed, the judge will choose one, usually without making significant changes. The order is then signed, filed, and becomes part of the public record. This practice can expedite the decision-making process and relieve judges from the burden of drafting lengthy opinions. Still, it has significant implications for the fairness and integrity of the judicial system.

The Case for Efficiency

Advocates of this practice argue that it improves efficiency in an often overloaded court system. Judges are busy professionals with heavy caseloads, and writing detailed opinions for every case can be time-consuming. By delegating the task of drafting orders to the attorneys, the judge can move through cases more quickly, which helps clear dockets and reduce the backlog many courts face.

Additionally, lawyers with specialized knowledge of the case at hand are often better equipped to draft orders that reflect the legal arguments and facts of the case. They have access to all the relevant documents, evidence, and legal precedents, which may allow them to craft rulings that are more precise than a judge might be able to on their own in a short time. This can lead to a more streamlined process, allowing the court to focus on resolving disputes rather than spending time drafting legal language.

Concerns Over Fairness and Accountability

However, this practice is not without its critics. One of the major concerns is that it undermines judicial accountability. Judges are appointed to their positions because they are trusted to make independent, impartial decisions based on their knowledge of the law. By relying on lawyers to write the rulings, the judge may appear to be abdicating their responsibility to apply the law fairly and thoughtfully. If a judge signs an order without carefully considering it, they may be leaving too much power in the hands of the attorneys, who may have an incentive to draft orders that favor their clients.

This process can also be especially problematic when there is a lack of transparency. While attorneys may submit their versions of the ruling with their arguments clearly outlined, there’s no guarantee that a judge will have thoroughly scrutinized every detail. If a judge signs an order written by one party’s lawyer without a deep understanding of the legal arguments, this could lead to biased or even legally flawed rulings.

The Potential Dangers

The most dangerous consequence of this practice is the potential for injustice.

If judges do not fully engage in the decision-making process and sign off on the motions drafted by attorneys, there’s a risk that the ruling might be based on an incomplete understanding of the law or the facts. Legal issues might be overlooked or misunderstood, leading to unfair rulings. This is especially concerning in complex cases or those involving vulnerable parties, where a judge’s expertise and careful analysis are critical to ensuring a just outcome.

The stakes are even higher in cases involving self-represented litigants or individuals with limited access to legal resources.

These parties may not have the same level of expertise as lawyers and could be disadvantaged if their lawyer-drafted motion is given preference over their arguments. The judge’s role should be to ensure that all parties are treated fairly. Still, if the judge relies too heavily on one side’s submission, it may inadvertently tip the scale of justice in favor of the more privileged party.

Will this practice expand to other states and destroy justice?

While the Florida judicial model of asking parties to submit their own versions of the ruling may have some benefits in terms of efficiency, it is not without grave risks for parties that lack the resources to research the law, examine the facts, and craft an elegant ruling that exhibits fairness over the paid advocacy of the issue.

Bottom line…

As we have seen in the various cases involving Donald Trump, essential questions about the role of judges in ensuring justice are unresolved as activist judges pervert the law and introduce their own partisan politics into the proceedings.

We are so screwed.

-- Steve


“Nullius in verba”-- take nobody's word for it!
"Acta non verba" -- actions not words

“Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.”-- George Bernard Shaw

“Progressive, liberal, Socialist, Marxist, Democratic Socialist -- they are all COMMUNISTS.”

“The key to fighting the craziness of the progressives is to hold them responsible for their actions, not their intentions.” – OCS

"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

“A people that elect corrupt politicians, imposters, thieves, and traitors are not victims... but accomplices” -- George Orwell

“Fere libenter homines id quod volunt credunt." (The people gladly believe what they wish to.) ~Julius Caesar

“Describing the problem is quite different from knowing the solution. Except in politics." ~ OCS


NAVY SHOOT DOWN: IS IT REALLY "FRIENDLY FIRE?"

It’s a bitch when our Commander-in-Chief, President Joe Biden, has checked out, the Secretary of Defense, Lloyd J. Austin, is a liar and checked out for a week without anyone knowing, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Charles Brown, was a diversity promotion, and the White House National Security Communications Advisor, John Kirby, is a liar.

Two US Navy pilots shot down over Red Sea in ‘friendly fire’ incident

Two U.S. Navy pilots were shot down Sunday over the Red Sea in an apparent “friendly fire” incident, the U.S military said, marking the most serious incident to threaten troops in over a year of America targeting Yemen’s Houthi rebels.

Both pilots were recovered alive, with one suffering minor injuries, but the incident underlines just how dangerous the Red Sea corridor has become over the ongoing attacks on shipping by the Iranian-backed Houthis despite U.S. and European military coalitions patrolling the area.

The U.S. military had been conducting airstrikes targeting Yemen’s Houthi rebels at the time, though U.S. Central Command did not elaborate on what their mission was and did not immediately respond to questions from The Associated Press.

The F/A-18 shot down had just flown off the deck of the Harry S. Truman aircraft carrier, Central Command said. On Dec. 15, CENTCOM acknowledged the Truman had entered the Mideast, but hadn’t specified that the carrier — and its battle group — was in the Red Sea.

The guided missile cruiser USS Gettysburg, which is part of the USS Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group, mistakenly fired on and hit the F/A-18,” Central Command said in a statement.

From the military’s description, the aircraft shot down was a two-seat F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter jet assigned to the “Red Rippers” of Strike Fighter Squadron 11 out of Naval Air Station Oceana, Virginia.

It wasn’t immediately clear how the Gettysburg could mistake an F/A-18 for an enemy aircraft or missile, particularly as ships in a battle group remain linked by both radar and radio communication. <Source>

So, who can we believe?

The story is that one of our ships launched a missile that hit one of our fighters, despite IFF (Identification Friend or Foe) systems and countermeasures in an act of accidental friendly fire.

However, this is now being questioned. Was it an act of war that called for a significant retaliatory strike? Was action delayed because the President “was unavailable” and the puppeteers were afraid of scrutiny this close to Trump’s inauguration?

SHOOT-DOWN

Bottom line…

Who to trust?

The honest answer will lie in who the Navy holds responsible for the shootdown. Will they martyr the Captain of the USS Gettysburg? 

We are so screwed.

-- Steve


“Nullius in verba”-- take nobody's word for it!
"Acta non verba" -- actions not words

“Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.”-- George Bernard Shaw

“Progressive, liberal, Socialist, Marxist, Democratic Socialist -- they are all COMMUNISTS.”

“The key to fighting the craziness of the progressives is to hold them responsible for their actions, not their intentions.” – OCS

"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

“A people that elect corrupt politicians, imposters, thieves, and traitors are not victims... but accomplices” -- George Orwell

“Fere libenter homines id quod volunt credunt." (The people gladly believe what they wish to.) ~Julius Caesar

“Describing the problem is quite different from knowing the solution. Except in politics." ~ OCS


ANOTHER "TROJAN HORSE GOVERNMENT SURVEILANCE PACKAGE?"

SPIES1

A parting present from Senator Mitt Romney (R-UT) and the deep state…

Senate Bill S. 5616: A bill to establish the Artificial Intelligence Safety Review Office in the Department of Commerce, and for other purposes.
Introduced on Dec 19, 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to dramatically improve and transform our way of life, but also presents a spectrum of risks that could be harmful to the American public, some of which could have catastrophic effects. Extremely powerful frontier AI could be misused by foreign adversaries, terrorists, and less sophisticated bad actors to cause widespread harm and threaten U.S. national security. Experts from across the U.S. government, industry, and academia believe that advanced AI could one day enable or assist in the development of chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and cyber weapons.
The Preserving American Dominance in Al Act would establish the Artificial Intelligence Safety Review Office, housed within the Department of Commerce. The Office would be responsible for working with frontier Al companies, large datacenters, and infrastructure-as-a-service providers (IaaS) to: (a) prevent exploitation of these industries by adversaries; and (b) ensure pre-deployment evaluations similar to CFIUS for the most advanced frontier Al models that pose chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and cyber risks.

Specifically, the bill would:

  • Establish the Artificial Intelligence Safety Review Office, led by a Senate-confirmed Under Secretary of Commerce for Artificial Intelligence Safety.
  • Direct the Office to:
    • Develop a take-home test for frontier Al model developers to evaluate their models for extreme risks prior to deployment;
    • Collaborate with the Al Safety Institute to provide industry with best practices and technical assistance; and
    • Study future Al-related risks and report findings to Congress.
  • Require the most advanced data centers that train the most advanced Al models to report the owner and location of the facility to the Office.
  • Protect industry from foreign adversarial actors by tasking IaaS providers to implement know-your-customer standards for transactions with foreign persons.
  • Safeguard frontier Al models from cyber breaches and intellectual property theft by requiring developers to implement cybersecurity standards.
  • Help frontier Al model developers identify red-teaming best practices to test for chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, or cyber risks.
  • Provide the Under Secretary a 90-day window to review a frontier Al model’s safeguards against chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and cyber risks.
  • Ensure a presumption of approval to prevent unnecessary roadblocks to deployment.
  • Establish penalties for developers that fail to comply with the Act.

Full text of the Preserving American Dominance in Al Act can be found here and a one-pager can be found here.

It’s all in the definitions., fine print, and rules and regulations promulgated by unelected bureaucrats.

IaaS Infrastructure as a Service is a cloud computing model that provides virtualized cloud computing resources over the internet.

Know-your-customer standards are the enabling legislation that allows private entities to intrusively investigate you and your business to compile profiles that are easily accessible to the government, specifically intelligence and law enforcement agencies, without a formal subpoena or showing of probable cause.

Know-your-customer standards are the stratagem that led to the de-banking and de-platforming of political organizations and dissident individuals that displeased the regime in power--and all without due process and means for redress. The very definition of fascistic behavior is a corporatist political system allowing for the regulatory capture of private industry by government entities.

We have seen past legislation requiring developers to implement cybersecurity standards, and it has proven ineffective in significant government and civilian cases. There are few protections from malignant actors with the keys to the digital kingdom who have been compromised, coerced, or have a malevolent intent.

Mentioning chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, or cyber risks is a fear tactic. Nobody knows or can project how AI can impact chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, or cyber risks beyond researching or answering questions about potential vulnerabilities.

Allow the government to examine all technology, possibly reinforcing the monopolies of existing government-compliant technology giants and stifling innovation by allowing corporatized theft of technological secrets without any cost-effective redress.

Penalties? This is the regime criminalizing unspecified behavior at their political whim. As we saw with the Obama and Biden Administrations, governments cannot be trusted not to weaponize their formidable forces against dissident organizations and regimes.

The Dangers of Eliminating Anonymity in the Cloud

As more individuals and businesses move their data and operations to the cloud, the issue of anonymity is becoming increasingly important. Removing anonymity can enhance security and accountability, but significant dangers must be considered.

  • Privacy Erosion: Anonymity in the cloud allows users to interact without revealing their personal identities. Without this layer of protection, sensitive data—like browsing history, online purchases, or personal communications—becomes vulnerable to surveillance. A loss of anonymity could lead to mass data collection by governments, corporations, or hackers, undermining personal privacy.

  • Freedom of Expression: The ability to communicate anonymously online is essential for free speech. In oppressive regimes, anonymity can be the only safeguard against retaliation for voicing dissent. Removing this protection can stifle political activism, whistleblowing, and sharing controversial ideas without fear of repercussion.

  • Increased Targeting by Malicious Actors: Eliminating anonymity can make individuals more susceptible to cyberattacks, harassment, or fraud. Cybercriminals often target identifiable individuals for identity theft, financial scams, or physical threats. Anonymity in the cloud offers a vital layer of protection against such risks.

  • Chilling Effect on Innovation: Anonymity encourages experimentation and sharing ideas without fear of personal or professional consequences. If users know they are constantly being tracked or identified, they may become more cautious, reducing innovation and creative collaboration in digital spaces.

Bottom line…

The Preserving American Dominance in AI Act of 2024 is a trojan horse, giving the government immeasurable new powers while purporting to be legislation aimed at addressing the intersection of national security concerns, artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, and American leadership in the global AI race. 

Even if Executive and Congressional Oversight Mechanisms for oversight and accountability are included, with provisions for regular reviews by Congress and dedicated AI oversight bodies to ensure the law’s goals are being met, we have seen these activities stone-walled or subverted by malignant actors and committees such as the sham January  Committee.

Ask yourself if the government has prevented the theft of technology by our Communist Chinese enemies or overlooked the fact that they purchased significant political influence, including up to the level of the President of the United States.

This is legislation effectively targeting Americans, not our enemies.

We are so screwed.

-- Steve


“Nullius in verba”-- take nobody's word for it!
"Acta non verba" -- actions not words

“Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.”-- George Bernard Shaw

“Progressive, liberal, Socialist, Marxist, Democratic Socialist -- they are all COMMUNISTS.”

“The key to fighting the craziness of the progressives is to hold them responsible for their actions, not their intentions.” – OCS

"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

“A people that elect corrupt politicians, imposters, thieves, and traitors are not victims... but accomplices” -- George Orwell

“Fere libenter homines id quod volunt credunt." (The people gladly believe what they wish to.) ~Julius Caesar

“Describing the problem is quite different from knowing the solution. Except in politics." ~ OCS


THE DEMOCRAT'S BETRAYAL OF AMERICA

Biden-democrat-failure
The Betrayal of America: How Presidential Staffers and Congress Risked National Security for the Sake of a Political Charade.

In times of crisis, leadership is our anchor. The American people look to their president to navigate the complexities of global politics, to make informed decisions on matters of national security, and to represent the strength and resolve of the United States on the world stage.

But what happens when that leadership falters, and those in power fail to address the cracks in the foundation? What happens when staffers and elected officials, who are meant to protect and serve the country, knowingly allow a façade of strength to be perpetuated, even as the reality of President Joe Biden’s declining health puts us all at risk?

In a betrayal that cannot be overstated, members of Congress and presidential staffers who were privy to Biden’s deteriorating condition chose to keep it hidden. They allowed the image of a robust, capable leader to persist—while behind the scenes, unelected, unprepared assistants stepped in to make critical decisions in the name of a leader too frail to lead.

This wasn’t just a failure of transparency but a criminal dereliction of duty. It was a betrayal of the American people and a gift to our enemies, who were all too aware that the nation’s leadership had been compromised.

A Deliberate Deception: The Charade of a Robust Leader.

When a nation is led by a president in poor health—whether physical, cognitive, or otherwise—there is an obligation to be honest with the public. This honesty is a constitutional and moral duty necessary for the nation’s security.

But what if the people entrusted with the responsibility to safeguard that truth allowed the country to be misled? What if Vice President Kamala Harris and a majority of cabinet secretaries refused to execute the provisions of Section 4 of the 25th Amendment, which deals with presidential incapacitation?

At the heart of this betrayal is the role of the president’s inner circle: staffers, aides, appointees, and even close members of Congress like House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, who knew the true extent of Biden’s health issues. They had access to private medical information, were witnesses to Biden’s struggles, and understood that the leader of the free world was no longer capable of making decisions with the clarity and mental acuity required by his office. Yet, rather than confront the issue head-on and demand accountability, they opted to cover up the problem.

Why? The answer is not simple, but it likely stems from a combination of self-interest, party loyalty, and the fear of chaos if the truth comes out. The prospect of losing their jobs or being part of a national scandal may have been too great a risk for the staffers. The political fallout could have been catastrophic for Congress members—not just for their careers but for the party system they swore to uphold.

However, to maintain the charade of a healthy, functioning president, they decided to place political stability over the nation’s well-being. They allowed a sick man to sit at the country’s helm while those around him pulled the strings behind the scenes.

Even worse, the Democrats proposed that a literal vegetable be granted a second term. It is an unforgivable sin that can never be assuaged because it is so severe that nothing can lessen its punishment.

The Consequences: A Fragile National Security.

What is the cost of such betrayal? It’s not just about destroying public trust in our political system; it’s about national security. While  President Biden was increasingly unable to fulfill his duties, foreign adversaries were not blind to the growing instability within our government. Every moment that the façade of strength was maintained was when our enemies exploited our vulnerabilities.

Imagine the risks imposed on a nation whose leader cannot act decisively in the face of global threats. Whether it was a failure to respond to rising tensions with foreign powers, delays in military decision-making, or an inability to enforce critical foreign policy strategies, the potential for catastrophe was ever-present.

America’s enemies—whether state actors or terrorist organizations—know when a nation’s leadership is weak or nonexistent, and they will exploit every weakness they detect. In this case, the weakness was not just in the president’s physical condition but in the fact that the people entrusted with our country’s safety allowed this crisis to unfold in the shadows.

By perpetuating the myth of a functioning president, these staffers and lawmakers endangered the country's integrity and enabled adversaries to make their moves with increasing confidence. This was not mere political incompetence but a direct threat to national security.

And the majority of the blame must be placed on Vice President Kamala Harris, who knew the truth but was too weak, incompetent, and, quite frankly, stupid to assert her constitutionally mandated duty and replace the failing Biden. Perhaps that was a blessing because the grossly incompetent Harris was incapable of assuming the presidential responsibilities.

Unelected and Unprepared: The Danger of Outsiders Calling the Shots.

Behind the scenes, those closest to him assumed more responsibility as Biden’s health failed. However, many of these individuals were not elected or prepared for the gravity of their decisions. Staffers, advisors, and political appointees who lacked the experience and authority to lead found themselves calling the shots on matters of national importance.

The perils of an unprepared leadership team cannot be overstated. Decisions made without a fully functioning president—particularly those involving intelligence, military strategy, and international relations—were often based on incomplete information, personal agendas, and political maneuvering rather than the nation’s best interests.

The reality is that these unaccountable aides and assistants were allowed to make decisions that could have shaped the future of America. And who is to say that they made the right choices? Who will be held accountable for the compromises made during those uncertain times?

A complicit media.

The progressive media propagandists consistently downplayed or even ignored the growing concerns surrounding the decline in President Biden’s health, presenting a distorted narrative to the public.

Despite numerous and apparent signs of physical and mental deterioration, these outlets often framed the issue as exaggerated or politically motivated, obscuring the actual severity of the situation.

By prioritizing partisan interests over national security, they failed to address the potential risks posed by a leader whose cognitive and physical capacity were severely compromised.

This media bias not only misinformed the public but also put the nation’s future at risk, as the true nature of Biden’s health affected critical decisions that impacted both domestic and international affairs.

Deflection and deception: the Attack on Trump.

The cover-up of the truth regarding Joe Biden’s declining health necessitated a massive scandal to divert attention and deceive the American public.

In this climate of distraction, the virulent, multi-pronged attack on President Trump emerged as a strategic tool to shift focus away from the growing concerns surrounding Biden’s physical and mental decline.

Trump, as the only qualified candidate capable of legitimately assuming the presidency and restoring stability to the nation, became the target of relentless smear campaigns designed to undermine his credibility and diminish his political influence.

The media’s focus on creating scandals around him served as a calculated deflection from the pressing issue of the president’s health, thus manipulating the public’s perception and distracting from the actual risks. This orchestrated assault aimed not only to vilify Trump but also to preserve a narrative that protected the deteriorating status quo, keeping the American people unaware of the dangers posed by a compromised leader.

A Nation at the Crossroads: The Path Forward.

America deserves better than this. We deserve transparent leaders who understand the duties and gravity of their positions. The betrayal of the American people by those who knew about the president’s declining health while maintaining the illusion of a capable leader has left scars that will take years to heal.

From now on, we must demand better from our elected officials and those who serve in the president’s inner circle. Transparency in health, honesty about leadership capacity, and a commitment to national security must be prioritized above political expediency. The nation’s integrity—and its citizens’ safety—depends on it.

We can never afford to allow another leader to be propped up in a way that endangers our country. The betrayal that we witnessed should serve as a wake-up call, a reminder that our democracy and our security depend on the courage of those who are willing to put the country before themselves. Our nation is stronger than any individual, and it is time for our leadership to reflect that truth.

Bottom line…

The Democratic Party and its representatives have committed an unpardonable sin: they have weakened the United States of America for their own personal, professional, and political gain. By prioritizing their own interests over the well-being and security of the nation, they have betrayed the very people they swore to serve. Such actions are not only irresponsible but dangerously self-serving.

As a result, these individuals should never again hold a position of power in government. They must be stripped of any security clearances, as their actions have demonstrated a profound disregard for national security, and their conduct should be thoroughly investigated to ensure accountability for the harm they have caused.

Lawyers who assisted in these nefarious attempts should be permanently disbarred, and members of bar associations who are complicit in attacking legitimate legal inquiries should likewise be disbarred and lose their jobs.

I would question whether or not any executive orders, legislation, and pardons should be viewed as valid after being signed by a cognitively impaired President.

And for those unconvinced of the danger, consider the thousands of criminals and terrorists who have entered our country illegally under the Biden Administration’s imprimatur.

We are so screwed.

-- Steve


“Nullius in verba”-- take nobody's word for it!
"Acta non verba" -- actions not words

“Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.”-- George Bernard Shaw

“Progressive, liberal, Socialist, Marxist, Democratic Socialist -- they are all COMMUNISTS.”

“The key to fighting the craziness of the progressives is to hold them responsible for their actions, not their intentions.” – OCS

"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

“A people that elect corrupt politicians, imposters, thieves, and traitors are not victims... but accomplices” -- George Orwell

“Fere libenter homines id quod volunt credunt." (The people gladly believe what they wish to.) ~Julius Caesar

“Describing the problem is quite different from knowing the solution. Except in politics." ~ OCS


CONGRESS: WASHINGTON'S BULLSHIT FACTORY

Once again, we are faced with so-called “make or break” funding bills, and I call bullshit! 

COB

  • Funding bills in Congress have become a stage for what many call “kabuki theatre” — a carefully choreographed performance that often prioritizes political drama over genuine policy debate.

As lawmakers wrangle over the details of these bills, the process is frequently marked by brinkmanship, last-minute negotiations, and manufactured crises, all designed to create the illusion of urgency. These dramatic confrontations, however, often mask the real agenda: securing funding for special interests and political priorities while bypassing scrutiny. The result is a legislative process that sometimes feels more like a scripted show, with the American people as passive spectators, rather than an open discussion about how to best serve the nation’s needs.

  • Funding bills are designed to create a last-minute crisis.

Funding bills are often designed to create a crisis, pressuring legislators into hurried approval with little or no scrutiny of their provisions. The urgency and threat of a government shutdown push lawmakers into panic mode, leaving them scrambling to pass bills without thoroughly examining the details.

This tactic is frequently used to bypass careful consideration, allowing controversial or unrelated provisions to slip through unnoticed.

As former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi famously said, “We have to pass the bill so that you can find out what’s in it.” A mindset reflects the broader issue of prioritizing speed over transparency, with the American public left to deal with the consequences later. In such an environment, the real needs of the American people often take a backseat to political maneuvering and expedience.

  • In Washington, winning or losing is defined by who secures the funding and garners the most media attention rather than addressing the needs of the American people.

Politicians and Executive Branch lawmakers frequently focus on strategic negotiations to ensure that their priorities receive financial backing, with less regard for how these decisions directly impact citizens. The battle for headlines and political leverage often overshadows the fundamental purpose of government — to serve the public. As a result, the true concerns of everyday Americans can be sidelined in favor of political victories that yield power, influence, and visibility.

  • What Is a Government Shutdown, and Does It Really Shut Down?

A government shutdown occurs when Congress fails to pass a funding bill to keep the federal government running. Without this funding, non-essential government services cease, and many federal employees are furloughed, meaning they are temporarily laid off without pay. Essential services, such as national security and emergency services, continue, though they may operate with reduced staff or resources.

Despite the dramatic name, a government shutdown doesn’t mean the entire government stops working. Federal workers in essential roles still show up, and some services, like Social Security or military operations, are unaffected. However, national parks, museums, and other public services may close, and many government agencies face delays or disruptions in their operations.

In short, while a government shutdown creates significant inconveniences and can hurt the economy, it doesn’t entirely halt the machinery of the government. The impacts are felt mainly by federal employees and the public who rely on government services. In reality, the government gets fully paid vacation days as their pay is retroactive. 

A matter of party unity.

Vote-2
VOTE

Here are the 38 nay voters...

Aaron Bean (Fla.), Andy Biggs (Ariz.), Josh Brecheen (Okla.), Tim Burchett (Tenn.), Eric Burlison (Mo.), Kat Cammack (Fla.), Michael Cloud (Texas), Andrew Clyde (Ga.), Eli Crane (Ariz.), John Curtis (Utah), Jeff Duncan (S.C.), Russ Fulcher (Idaho), Bob Good (Va.), Paul Gosar (Ariz.), Andy Harris (Md.), Wesley Hunt (Texas), Doug Lamborn (Colo.), Debbie Lesko (Ariz.), Greg Lopez (Colo.), Morgan Luttrell (Texas), Nancy Mace (S.C.), Thomas Massie (Ky.), Richard McCormick (Ga.), Cory Mills (Fla.), Alexander Mooney (W.Va.), Blake Moore (Utah), Nathaniel Moran (Texas), Ralph Norman (S.C.), Andy Ogles (Tenn.), Scott Perry (Pa.), Bill Posey (Fla.), Matt Rosendale (Mont.), Chip Roy (Texas), David Schweikert (Ariz.), Keith Self (Texas), Victoria Spartz (Ind.), Thomas Tiffany (Wis.), and Beth Van Duyne (Texas).

Trump's comments...

Trump

The progressive media headlines...

Drudge

Bottom line…

Once again, the Republican Party can’t get its shit together!

We are so screwed.

-- Steve 


“Nullius in verba”-- take nobody's word for it!
"Acta non verba" -- actions not words

“Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.”-- George Bernard Shaw

“Progressive, liberal, Socialist, Marxist, Democratic Socialist -- they are all COMMUNISTS.”

“The key to fighting the craziness of the progressives is to hold them responsible for their actions, not their intentions.” – OCS

"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

“A people that elect corrupt politicians, imposters, thieves, and traitors are not victims... but accomplices” -- George Orwell

“Fere libenter homines id quod volunt credunt." (The people gladly believe what they wish to.) ~Julius Caesar

“Describing the problem is quite different from knowing the solution. Except in politics." ~ OCS


LYING REPUBLICANS SCREWING AMERICA

BullshitThe 1,547-page so-called continuing resolution is a sham; it is, in actuality, a type of omnibus spending bill called a minibus bill that Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) promised would never be used.

Omnibus bills are large, comprehensive packages that bundle multiple appropriations or budget-related bills together, often making it difficult for lawmakers to vote on them separately or scrutinize specific provisions. These bills have been controversial because they can lead to excessive spending, include controversial provisions, and bypass the normal deliberative process in Congress.

Speaker Mike Johnson pledged to end the practice of omnibus spending bills shortly after becoming Speaker of the House in October 2023. He specifically committed this during a speech after his October 25, 2023 election.

“If it looks like a duck, swims like a duck, and quacks like a duck, then it probably is a duck.”

Speaker Johnson says House will not approve ‘Christmas omnibus’

Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) is promising that the House will not approve a single, massive bill to fund the entire government in December — a scenario feared by conservatives —  despite a stopgap that’s expected to clear the House this week expiring on Dec. 20.

There won’t be a Christmas omnibus,” Johnson said in a press conference Tuesday, reiterating a message he relayed privately to members in a House GOP conference meeting that morning.

Congress has regularly passed omnibus spending bills after a funding deadline butts up against end-of-year holidays, when members are eager to quickly finish legislative business and return to their families.

The House is expected to vote Wednesday on a continuing resolution (CR) to extend government funding until Dec. 20 in order to avoid a government shutdown on Oct. 1.

Johnson is also ruling out other large packages of funding legislation, such as “minibuses” — bills that combine funding for some, but not all, areas of government. Government funding is theoretically divided up among 12 appropriations bills.

“We don’t want any buses. We’re not going to do any buses, OK?” Johnson said. <Source>

Another progressive communist democrat “porkulus” bill…

The current continuing resolution in the House of Representatives has sparked significant controversy, particularly among House conservatives.

  • Disaster Funding: The resolution includes $110.4 billion in disaster aid, which some conservatives argue is excessive.

  • RFK Stadium Transfer: The measure clears the way for transferring administrative jurisdiction over the RFK Memorial Stadium Campus to Washington, D.C., which has been a contentious issue.

  • Baltimore Bridge Rebuilding: The federal government has committed to paying the entire cost of rebuilding Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge, which collapsed in March.

  • Pay Raise for Congress: The resolution includes a pay raise for members of Congress, which has drawn criticism from various quarters.

  • Exemption from Obamacare: The bill allows members of Congress to opt out of the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) and instead use the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program.

  • Pork Items: The resolution includes several items that critics have labeled “pork,” such as $8 billion for a new football stadium in Washington, D.C., $50 million annually for an extended drinking water program, and five years’ worth of funding for a healthcare education program.

  • Extension of State Department Disinformation Campaign: The bill includes a provision to reauthorize the State Department’s Global Engagement Center for one year. Conservatives have criticized this office for allegedly funding a “censorship scheme” aimed at suppressing right-leaning voices online.

  • Hiding the Nefarious Actions of House Democrats: The current continuing resolution includes a controversial provision regarding subpoena protection for House data. This provision states that a court of competent jurisdiction shall quash or modify any legal process directed to a provider for a House office if compliance would require the disclosure of House data.

These provisions, and others, have led to a revolt among House conservatives, who feel that the resolution resembles the massive progressive communist democrat end-of-year spending packages they have long opposed.

The Matt Gaetz affair…

The House Ethics Committee recently secretly voted to release the long-awaited ethics report on former Rep. Matt Gaetz. The report allegedly includes allegations of sexual misconduct, illicit drug use, and other serious charges. The Committee’s decision to release the report has raised the possibility that the accusations against Gaetz could be made public in the coming days.

The report has been a point of contention, with House Republicans previously blocking efforts to release it. Since the Committee is evenly divided between Democrats and Republicans, I wonder which Republican (Chairman Michael Guest from Mississippi, David P. Joyce from Ohio, John H. Rutherford from Florida, Andrew R. Garbarino from New York, and Michelle Fischbach from Minnesota) jumped the aisle to provide the progressives with an exploitable “win?”

The President-elect and Vice President-elect comment…

A statement from President Donald J. Trump and Vice President-Elect JD Vance:

The most foolish and inept thing ever done by Congressional Republicans was allowing our country to hit the debt ceiling in 2025. It was a mistake and is now something that must be addressed.

Meanwhile, Congress is considering a spending bill that would give sweetheart provisions for government censors and for Liz Cheney. The bill would make it easier to hide the records of the corrupt January 6 committee-which accomplished nothing for the American people and hid security failures that happened that day. This bill would also give Congress a pay increase while many Americans are struggling this Christmas.

Increasing the debt ceiling is not great but we’d rather do it on Biden’s watch. If Democrats won’t cooperate on the debt ceiling now, what makes anyone think they would do it in June during our administration? Let’s have this debate now. And we should pass a streamlined spending bill that doesn’t give Chuck Schumer and the Democrats everything they want.

Republicans want to support our farmers, pay for disaster relief, and set our country up for success in 2025. The only way to do that is with a temporary funding bill WITHOUT DEMOCRAT GIVEAWAYS combined with an increase in the debt ceiling. Anything else is a betrayal of our country.

Republicans must GET SMART and TOUGH. If Democrats threaten to shut down the government unless we give them everything they want, then CALL THEIR BLUFF. It is Schumer and Biden who are holding up aid to our farmers and disaster relief.

THIS CHAOS WOULD NOT BE HAPPENING IF WE HAD A REAL PRESIDENT. WE WILL IN 32 DAYS!

Bottom line…

Let the progressive communist democrats pass the bill on their own and uphold the GOP’s promise of controlling spending, and let them shut down the government, which is meaningless, if necessary.

We continue to be screwed by the GOP as they participate in the annual charade of delaying budget bills by design so that Congress can rush it through at the last minute before the deadline to fund the government, giving nobody time to vet what is in it properly. Or, in the immortal words of former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA), “We have to pass the bill so that you can find out what is in it — away from the fog of the controversy.”

We are so screwed.

-- Steve


“Nullius in verba”-- take nobody's word for it!
"Acta non verba" -- actions not words

“Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.”-- George Bernard Shaw

“Progressive, liberal, Socialist, Marxist, Democratic Socialist -- they are all COMMUNISTS.”

“The key to fighting the craziness of the progressives is to hold them responsible for their actions, not their intentions.” – OCS

"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

“A people that elect corrupt politicians, imposters, thieves, and traitors are not victims... but accomplices” -- George Orwell

“Fere libenter homines id quod volunt credunt." (The people gladly believe what they wish to.) ~Julius Caesar

“Describing the problem is quite different from knowing the solution. Except in politics." ~ OCS


TIME TO LABEL TERRORISTS AS TERRORISTS

Terrorist-march

Language plays a crucial role in shaping perceptions and actions, and one of the most critical areas where clarity is needed is in the labeling of terrorist groups and individuals.

Terrorism, by definition, involves the use of violence or threats to intimidate or coerce societies, often targeting civilians to achieve political, ideological, or religious aims.

However, the reluctance to use the term “terrorist” can undermine international efforts to combat extremism.

When governments or media organizations shy away from calling a spade a spade, they risk downplaying the severity of the threat they are facing, confusing public perception, and enabling the continuation of violence.

By unequivocally identifying pro-terrorist and terrorist groups, the United States can unify its resources, intelligence, and legal frameworks to dismantle these threats.

When pro-Palestinian and pro-Iran groups are recognized as terrorist organizations, it makes it more difficult for them to operate under the guise of political legitimacy. And it ensures moral clarity. Terrorism is an assault on the values of peace, security, and human dignity, and failing to call it out allows these principles to be eroded.

Pro-Palestinian Group in NYC Vows Support for Armed Resistance Against U.S., Israel

“Our rifles will be pointed at the U.S. government and the Zionist entity,” declared the speaker at a recent pro-Palestinian rally in New York, as he described American “imperialists” as the “number one terrorists,” and expressed solidarity with Hezbollah, a U.S.-designated terrorist organization, Iran, and other members of the “Axis of Resistance.”

The pro-Palestinian Bronx Anti-War Coalition, a self-described “working-class, BIPOC-led, anti-imperialist” group, organized a rally on Sunday in New York City’s Union Square to express solidarity with the “Axis of Resistance,” which the group identified as Hezbollah, Iran, Syria, Yemen, and the Iraqi “resistance.”

At the event, a speaker donning a keffiyeh issued sharp proclamations, including: “Stop pointing fingers at each other. Our fingers, our pens, our rifles will be pointed at the U.S. government, the Zionist entity, and nobody else.”

The rally featured chants repeated by the crowd, calling out “U.S. imperialists” as the “number one terrorists” and voicing unity with regional terror movements.

Participants were seen waving flags representing the Palestinians; Iran, the leading state sponsor of terror; Iraq, where Iranian-backed militias hold significant influence; Lebanon, home to Hezbollah; Syria under Assad’s regime, notorious for brutal crackdowns during its civil war; and Yemen, where the Houthi rebels align with Iran.

These were seen alongside Hezbollah’s yellow flag, a known emblem of armed resistance and Islamic terror.

Hezbollah, which has actively sought to expand its influence beyond the Middle East, is designated a terrorist organization by more than a dozen countries and international entities, including major Western nations, members of the European Union, and most Arab League member states, due to its involvement in terrorist activities against American, French, Israeli, and other targets.

Former President Donald Trump has denounced Hezbollah, stating, “No terrorist group other than al-Qaeda has more American blood on its hands.” Meanwhile, Arkansas Republican Sen. Tom Cotton has called for the elimination of “all of Hezbollah’s leadership” while insisting that the United States “should let Israel win” against Tehran’s key terrorist proxy in the region.

The event also emphasized anti-sectarianism, with the speaker urging the crowd to “rise above religious differences” and focus on a shared cause.

[OCS: If you have wondered how a group like "Queers for Palestine" can support a movement that tortures, mutilates, and executes LGBTQ+ individuals, look no farther that the progressive communist democrat teaching that supporting the Palestinian cause comes from an obligation of solidarity with another group they claim is oppressed.  For these misguided fools, the plight of LGBTQ+ individuals in Palestine is seen as a secondary issue or something to be addressed later, rather than as an immediate focal point of their activism.]

The “anti-capitalism” Bronx Anti-War Coalition amplified their message on social media, sharing a video of Hamas spokesperson Abu Obeida denouncing sectarianism, as well as a speech by Hezbollah Secretary-General Naim Qassam streamed from Iran’s Press TV.  <Source>

Bottom line…

The honest labeling of terrorists is not just about political power semantics—it’s about taking a firm stand against violence and making clear that such acts will not be tolerated, regardless of the perpetrators’ motives or affiliations.

It’s time for a more resolute approach to confronting terrorism in all its forms. Labeling an entity as a “terrorist” is not merely a political tool but a moral and strategic necessity for national security and global peace.

We are so screwed.

-- Steve

Piss-on-jihadFull Disclosure:

Swi


“Nullius in verba”-- take nobody's word for it!
"Acta non verba" -- actions not words

“Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.”-- George Bernard Shaw

“Progressive, liberal, Socialist, Marxist, Democratic Socialist -- they are all COMMUNISTS.”

“The key to fighting the craziness of the progressives is to hold them responsible for their actions, not their intentions.” – OCS

"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

“A people that elect corrupt politicians, imposters, thieves, and traitors are not victims... but accomplices” -- George Orwell

“Fere libenter homines id quod volunt credunt." (The people gladly believe what they wish to.) ~Julius Caesar

“Describing the problem is quite different from knowing the solution. Except in politics." ~ OCS


THE DANGERS OF A TRANSACTIONAL PRESIDENT

Corrupt-politician-union

In recent years, the term “transactional” has become increasingly common in describing President Trump’s leadership style. But what does it mean to have a “transactional” president, and why is this potentially dangerous?

What does “Transactional” behavior mean?

Transactional behavior refers to decisions primarily based on exchanges or quid pro quo. Essentially, it’s a bargaining relationship where actions and decisions are driven by the expectation of something in return. Transactional leaders operate on a system of rewards and punishments, focusing on immediate, tangible, and pragmatic results instead of long-term policy.

The dangers of a transactional president

Presidential transactional behavior may turn toxic when the decision-making is grounded in political self-interest and prioritizing deals based on personal gain or short-term political benefit, approaching negotiations or international relations with a mindset that sees alliances as commodities and seeks immediate returns for actions rather than focusing on fostering long-term partnerships or advancing core political principles.

Is this a warning, the beginning of a transactional deal to capture the favor of the unions?

The International Longshoremen’s Association is about keeping total control of the nation’s unionized port operations and, more specifically, fighting the type of automation that will speed up the loading, unloading, and handling of containers as is done in most international ports. The union is threatening a strike to keep automation at bay, featherbed the workforce, and significantly increase wages and benefits without a corresponding increase in productivity.

There is no doubt that the crippling effects of dockworkers’ labor actions would have far-reaching consequences, directly disrupting the flow of raw materials, finished products, and essential supplies and stalling any economic recovery as backlogs in shipping and delays in production timelines ripple throughout industries reliant on timely imports and exports. Given the interconnectedness of today’s global economy, even short-term delays in port operations can cause cascading effects, leading to shortages, inflation, and reduced consumer confidence.

So, why am I not surprised President Trump is taking a pro-union stance?

Trump-hdr

Just finished a meeting with the International Longshoremen’s Association and its President, Harold Daggett, and Executive VP, Dennis Daggett.

There has been a lot of discussion having to do with “automation” on United States docks. I’ve studied automation, and know just about everything there is to know about it. The amount of money saved is nowhere near the distress, hurt, and harm it causes for American Workers, in this case, our Longshoremen.

Foreign companies have made a fortune in the U.S. by giving them access to our markets. They shouldn’t be looking for every last penny knowing how many families are hurt. They’ve got record profits, and I’d rather these foreign companies spend it on the great men and women on our docks, than machinery, which is expensive, and which will constantly have to be replaced.

In the end, there’s no gain for them, and I hope that they will understand how important an issue this is for me. For the great privilege of accessing our markets, these foreign companies should hire our incredible American Workers, instead of laying them off, and sending those profits back to foreign countries. It is time to put AMERICA FIRST! <Source>

[OCS: It is important to note that foreign port operators have a significant foothold in our ports.

The impact of foreign operators, particularly China, on port operations in the United States has been significant and multifaceted. Chinese companies, such as COSCO Shipping, have become major players in global shipping, and their involvement in U.S. ports has raised concerns related to national security, economic influence, and supply chain control. China’s strategic investments in U.S. ports, including ownership stakes in terminals, have led to debates about the potential for Chinese control over critical infrastructure. While these investments bring financial benefits and improved operational efficiencies to port operations, there is growing scrutiny over the risks associated with foreign entities controlling key logistics hubs, particularly in times of geopolitical tension.

And that inefficiencies and the cost of labor drive inflation and the cost of imported goods and raw materials.]

The union response...

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

I had the honor of meeting with President-elect Donald Trump yesterday, and I want to share an experience I never imagiined in my wildest dreams. Throughout my career, I've never seen a politician-let alone the President of the United States -truly understand the importance of the work our members do every single day. But yesterday, President-elect Trump not only demonstrated that understanding but also showed the utmost respect for the hard work, sacrifices, and dedication of our membership.

He was not just attentive to our concerns; he was receptive and genuinely engaged in a discussion about the existential threat automation poses-not only to the Longshore sector but to our communities and the very fabric of this great nation. It's rare to meet a leader who truly listens, and even rarer to find one who is willing to act.

Let's put politics aside for a moment, as I know it can be challenging for some to grasp. But I witnessed something extraordinary firsthand-this man truly wants to fight for America and its working class. In over 25 years of working in Washington, I have never seen a Republican take up the mantle for working-class people. President-elect Trump proved me wrong yesterday.

He didn't just tell us in private that he supports workers-he made it clear to the whole world.

As we move forward, let us focus on the opportunities ahead. I will continue to fight for your jobs, our communities, and the future of the working class in this country.

In solidarity,
Dennis A. Daggett
Executive Vice President
International Longshoremen's Association

Bottom line…

While transactional leadership can be effective in specific, short-term scenarios, its application at the level of the presidency poses significant risks to the health of our democracy and the stability of our economy.

There is no doubt that transactional leadership can blur ethical boundaries and create opportunities for corruption with the potential to undermine the very foundations of democracy, as we have seen in the Clinton, Obama, and Biden Administrations.

Will President Trump and the GOP adopt a political style more suited to the progressive communist democrats rather than the constitutional conservatives in the Republican Party?

With all politicians, it is not a matter of if you will be screwed but a matter of when.

The antidote is a vigilant public willing to stand up and call bullshit when things appear dodgy.

-- Steve


“Nullius in verba”-- take nobody's word for it!
"Acta non verba" -- actions not words

“Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.”-- George Bernard Shaw

“Progressive, liberal, Socialist, Marxist, Democratic Socialist -- they are all COMMUNISTS.”

“The key to fighting the craziness of the progressives is to hold them responsible for their actions, not their intentions.” – OCS

"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

“A people that elect corrupt politicians, imposters, thieves, and traitors are not victims... but accomplices” -- George Orwell

“Fere libenter homines id quod volunt credunt." (The people gladly believe what they wish to.) ~Julius Caesar

“Describing the problem is quite different from knowing the solution. Except in politics." ~ OCS


PIECE OF SCHIFF CONTINUES ATTACK ON KASH PATEL'S NOMINATION FOR FBI DIRECTOR

Schiff-secret

Adam Schiff, California’s newly elected Senator, continues to attack Kash Patel…

Excerpt from the “This Week with George Stephanopoulos” transcript, airing on Sunday, December 15, 2024, on ABC News.

STEPHANOPOULOS: You also heard Senator Schmitt say that the idea that Kash Patel had an enemy list is false. There was -- was that list of 60 people in his book, “Government Gangsters.”

[OCS: “GOVERNMENT GANGSTERS: The Deep State, the Truth, and the Battle for Our Democracy]

Do those people -- many members, former members of the Trump administration, many members of the Biden administration, do they -- do you think they have anything to worry about?

SCHIFF: Well, you know, I think if Patel is made director of the FBI, then all bets are off. I mean, this is someone who will do whatever dirty work the president wants him to do. So I can certainly understand concerns about him.

The remedy there is not to confirm him. That seems to be his only qualification which is blind obedience the president. The president can find other people who are loyal to him and his interests but also loyal to the rule of law.

Patel is not one of them.

[OCS: Kash Patel’s bona fides, his credentials, experience, and loyalty to the U.S. Constitution are above reproach. And, his ethics and honesty far exceed Adam Schiff’s credentials and experience.

  • Deputy Assistant to the President and Senior Director for Counterterrorism at the National Security Council
  • Chief of Staff to the Acting U.S. Secretary of Defense
  • Staff Director for the House Intelligence Committee
  • Federal public defender
  • Federal prosecutor and trial attorney in the United States Department of Justice National Security Division
  • Legal liaison to the United States Armed Forces (Joint Special Operations Command)
  • Florida Public Defender]

Adam Schiff’s Censure from the House of Representatives…

Schiff, then the Democratic representative from California, was censured by the U.S. House of Representatives in December 2024 primarily for his corrupt involvement in the impeachment proceedings against former President Donald Trump.

The censure resolution accused Schiff of engaging in actions that misled the public and abused his power as the chairman of the House Intelligence Committee during the investigation.

The resolution highlighted Schiff’s role in leading the impeachment inquiry, claiming that his statements and actions contributed to the spread of false narratives about the Trump administration. The censure effort argued that Schiff had violated public trust and was seen as a direct response to his role in the Trump impeachment, reflecting the partisan divisions surrounding that process—H.Res.521 - Censuring Adam Schiff, Representative of the 30th Congressional District of California.

Kash Patel’s Exposure of Schiff’s Lies…

Kash Patel, a former aide to Congressman Devin Nunes and a key figure in the investigation into the Russia probe, played a significant role in exposing what he and others viewed as Adam Schiff’s misleading statements about the Russia investigation, commonly referred to as “Russia-gate.”

Patel, along with Nunes, was critical of Schiff’s portrayal of the investigation, particularly his public claims about having evidence of collusion between the Trump campaign and Russia.

In his role as the ranking member of the House Intelligence Committee, Schiff repeatedly asserted that he had seen evidence linking Trump associates to Russian interference in the 2016 election.

However, Patel, in his capacity as part of the Republican investigation into the origins of the Russia probe, argued that these claims were unsubstantiated and misleading. He and others pointed to the Mueller Report’s findings, which concluded no conclusive evidence of collusion.

Patel’s exposure of what he termed Schiff’s falsehoods became a focal point for Republicans, who accused Schiff of intentionally misleading the public to advance a political agenda. This controversy played a major role in the growing criticism of Schiff’s conduct, eventually contributing to calls for his censure.

Bottom line…

There are several reasons why liar, leaker, perjurer, creator, and manipulator of false evidence Adam Schiff should be expelled from Congress. These reasons often stem from accusations of misconduct, partisan behavior, and alleged dishonesty. Some of the main points include:

  1. Misleading the Public During the Russia Investigation: Schiff misled the public with his claims about evidence of collusion between the Trump campaign and Russia. Schiff repeatedly suggested that he had proof of collusion, but the Mueller Report ultimately found no conclusive evidence of such a connection. Schiff’s statements, especially those leaked to the press, were misleading and served to fuel partisan divisions.

  2. Role in the Impeachment of Donald Trump: Schiff was a central figure in the impeachment process against President Trump, particularly in leading the impeachment inquiry in 2019. Schiff exaggerated or misrepresented information in the investigation, creating a narrative that was overly partisan and damaging to the integrity of the process. Schiff abused his position to further a political agenda.

  3. Abuse of Power: Schiff abused his power as chairman of the House Intelligence Committee by using his position to advance partisan objectives rather than serve the American public’s broader interests. Schiff was accused of selectively leaking information and making inflammatory statements undermining public trust in government institutions.

  4. Censorship and Integrity Issues: In 2024, Schiff was censured by the House of Representatives for spreading false or misleading information to create a false narrative about national security issues, particularly concerning the Russia investigation. This censure, which stemmed from his actions in the impeachment inquiry, highlighted his behavior that undermined the credibility and integrity of Congress.

  5. Partisan Polarization: Schiff’s outspoken stance on impeachment, particularly his role in the Trump-Russia investigation and the impeachment process contributed to the deepening partisan polarization in Congress. His actions have focused more on political gain than working across the aisle to serve the public interest.

  6. Public Distrust: Schiff’s handling of sensitive investigations, including his public statements and actions, contributed to a significant erosion of trust in the political system. They claim that he engaged in behavior that exacerbated the partisan divide, causing harm to the reputation of Congress as an institution.

Schiff is a man who cannot be trusted. At the very least, he should be investigated for destroying government documents and violating the Espionage Act.

We are so screwed.

-- Steve


“Nullius in verba”-- take nobody's word for it!
"Acta non verba" -- actions not words

“Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.”-- George Bernard Shaw

“Progressive, liberal, Socialist, Marxist, Democratic Socialist -- they are all COMMUNISTS.”

“The key to fighting the craziness of the progressives is to hold them responsible for their actions, not their intentions.” – OCS

"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

“A people that elect corrupt politicians, imposters, thieves, and traitors are not victims... but accomplices” -- George Orwell

“Fere libenter homines id quod volunt credunt." (The people gladly believe what they wish to.) ~Julius Caesar

“Describing the problem is quite different from knowing the solution. Except in politics." ~ OCS


DRONES: WHAT ARE THEY HIDING AND WHY?

In recent months, there has been growing concern and intrigue surrounding the appearance of mystery drones in the skies near the New Jersey coast, with citizens and media experts questioning the purpose and origin of these uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs).

DRONE-1

From unexplained sightings to suspected military and surveillance activity, these drones have sparked a series of questions that remain largely unanswered. So, why might the government keep the public in the dark about these mysterious aerial contraptions?

1. National Security Concerns:  One of the primary reasons the government might keep details about mystery drones under wraps is national security. If the drones are part of surveillance efforts—whether from foreign adversaries, terrorist groups, or other entities—publicly acknowledging their existence could give those responsible critical insights into how the country is responding to threats.  If foreign powers are using drones for espionage or reconnaissance, revealing that these drones are being detected could signal them that their actions are being noticed, potentially undermining future intelligence-gathering missions.

2. Protecting Sensitive Technology:  Mystery drones may involve cutting-edge technology, which governments and corporations often prefer to keep confidential to maintain a competitive edge. If the drones are part of a classified government or military program, acknowledging them publicly could inadvertently disclose technological advancements that are not yet ready for public disclosure. The drones could be part of experimental programs involving AI, stealth technology, or advanced weaponry. Premature exposure of these innovations could compromise national interests, both militarily and economically. The public release of such sensitive information could also invite unwanted attention from other nations seeking to steal the technology to replicate or counter these technologies.

3. Avoiding Public Panic:  Governments often infantilize the American public and avoid creating additional anxiety. If mystery drones are tied to unknown threats—environmental, technological, or even extraterrestrial—officials may fear that disclosing too much too soon could cause widespread fear, confusion, or panic among the public. In some cases, governments decide to manage the narrative, withholding specific details to prevent a situation from spiraling out of control. If mystery drones were associated with unidentified foreign powers or had the potential to escalate geopolitical tensions, revealing this to the public might heighten fears of war or domestic insecurity. Governments may believe they are preserving public order and stability by maintaining secrecy. Drones can spread chemical, biological, and radiological agents and cause significant power outages by crashing and short-circuiting our electric grid infrastructure. 

4. Covert Law Enforcement or Intelligence Operations: Mystery drones could be part of covert law enforcement or intelligence operations, domestically or internationally. These operations might involve monitoring individuals or groups engaged in criminal activity, organized crime, or terrorism. If the public were aware of such surveillance efforts, it could tip off suspects, potentially compromising ongoing investigations and putting agents at risk. Additionally, drones used for intelligence-gathering could be integral to tracking the movements of hostile individuals or groups. Disclosure of these activities could hinder the effectiveness of these operations and give targets a chance to evade detection or alter their behavior. Unfortunately, we have seen government entities abuse their power and illegally surveil American citizens--leading to outrage and political action adverse to the regime in power. 

5. Investigating Potentially Hazardous Materials or Sites: Drones might monitor hazardous areas, such as chemical plants, nuclear sites, or environmentally sensitive regions. Suppose the drones are being deployed in response to the discovery of a potential environmental or industrial hazard. In that case, the government may classify such information to avoid unnecessary alarm or prevent activists or third parties from interfering with operations. In situations where the government is investigating the presence of dangerous substances, revealing the existence of drones might prompt individuals or groups to interfere with investigations or pose additional security challenges. By withholding information, officials may feel they can mitigate these risks while addressing the issue privately.

6. Covering Up a Failure or Embarrassing Incident:  Governments are often concerned with managing their public image and may withhold information about mysterious drones if their involvement exposes a failure or an embarrassing incident. This could include a security breach, where drones bypassed defenses or security measures, or the existence of a drone that was deployed for an unintended or illegal purpose. Suppose mystery drones are found to result from an accidental launch or a malfunction of government technology. In that case, the government may hide these details to avoid public criticism or political fallout. Similarly, if the drones are part of a more significant mistake or misstep, officials may seek to cover up the incident to avoid public backlash.

7. Strategic Political Maneuvering: There is also the possibility that drones are part of a larger geopolitical strategy, where the government strategically keeps the information under wraps to gain leverage in future negotiations. This might include using the mystery drones as a tool for diplomatic bargaining. Suppose the government believes that revealing the presence of certain drones could change the balance of power in trade or security agreements. In that case, they may withhold information to retain strategic advantage. 

8.  Corrupt Government Operations:  As we have seen in the past, the Biden Administration has received multimillions of dollars from foreign entities such as Communist China, Russia, and Ukraine. If a hostile foreign power is operating these drones, it might be in the regime’s interest to cover up traitorous and grossly criminal activity to protect high-ranking government officials.

9.  Desensitization to Aerial Surveillance:  By flooding the media with drone sightings and other stories, the government might attempt to desensitize the American public to aerial surveillance by government entities.

Bottom line…

It’s a bitch when we cannot trust our government, local, state, and federal, or our elected officials sworn to represent and protect us.

We are so screwed.

--- Steve


“Nullius in verba”-- take nobody's word for it!
"Acta non verba" -- actions not words

“Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.”-- George Bernard Shaw

“Progressive, liberal, Socialist, Marxist, Democratic Socialist -- they are all COMMUNISTS.”

“The key to fighting the craziness of the progressives is to hold them responsible for their actions, not their intentions.” – OCS

"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

“A people that elect corrupt politicians, imposters, thieves, and traitors are not victims... but accomplices” -- George Orwell

“Fere libenter homines id quod volunt credunt." (The people gladly believe what they wish to.) ~Julius Caesar

“Describing the problem is quite different from knowing the solution. Except in politics." ~ OCS


NATIONAL BLUE FALCON AWARD: SENATOR ED MARKEY OF MASSACHUSETTS

Have you ever wondered why certain Senators like Ed Markey (D-MA) appear insanely stupid?

Ed2 Markey-ma

More Trump fear-mongering and a clear and present danger to America’s national security! 

Why wouldn’t Markey be concerned about a senile absentee President/Commander-in-Chief whose decisions appear to be crafted by unelected individuals behind the scenes and who are former Communist/Islamist President Obama’s acolytes?

And let us not forget, Markey is a useful idiot acting on behalf of our enemies…

Markey-logo

NONPROLIFERATION

As a founder of the national Nuclear Freeze movement, Senator Markey has worked to end the proliferation of nuclear weapons since the beginning of his career. While in the House of Representatives, Markey co-founded the Congressional Bipartisan Task Force on Nonproliferation and has consistently spearheaded Congressional efforts to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons. Recently, Senator Markey has advocated for over billions in budget cuts to our nation’s wasteful and redundant nuclear defense programs. 

Senator Markey’s Smarter Approach to Nuclear Expenditures (SANE) Act would cut $75 billion from the nuclear weapons budget and Hold the LYNE (Low-Yield Nuclear Explosive) Act would prevent the Trump administration from developing low-yield nuclear weapons. With oversight and legislation, the Senator has also consistently fought the nuclear ambitions of North Korea, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey.  <Source>

Bottom line…

Unilaterally disarming the nuclear arsenal of the United States is an exceedingly dangerous and reckless proposition, undermining the very foundation of national security as the U.S. nuclear deterrent serves as a critical safeguard against existential threats, ensuring that potential adversaries think twice before contemplating aggression.

Disarming without reciprocal action from other nuclear-armed nations would create a power vacuum, emboldening hostile states while simultaneously eroding America’s global influence. The idea of disarming in isolation ignores the realities of international politics, where rogue regimes and adversaries like Russia, China, and North Korea continue to advance their own nuclear capabilities.

Such a move would jeopardize national security and global stability, potentially leaving the U.S. vulnerable to coercion and attack while diminishing its ability to influence world affairs.

The insanity of unilateral disarmament lies in Markey’s insane and stupidly naïve assumption that good intentions can outweigh the international stage’s unpredictable and often adversarial dynamics.

We are so screwed when we ignore the prime directive: “peace through strength.”

-- Steve

FINISH-BIDEN


“Nullius in verba”-- take nobody's word for it!
"Acta non verba" -- actions not words

“Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.”-- George Bernard Shaw

“Progressive, liberal, Socialist, Marxist, Democratic Socialist -- they are all COMMUNISTS.”

“The key to fighting the craziness of the progressives is to hold them responsible for their actions, not their intentions.” – OCS

"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

“A people that elect corrupt politicians, imposters, thieves, and traitors are not victims... but accomplices” -- George Orwell

“Fere libenter homines id quod volunt credunt." (The people gladly believe what they wish to.) ~Julius Caesar

“Describing the problem is quite different from knowing the solution. Except in politics." ~ OCS


ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE: LYING AND LIABILITIES

We should be wary of any government legislation that attempts to protect or indemnify operators of artificial intelligence platforms from the legal consequences of misinformation created by an AI system trained to reject the truth in favor of regime narratives and outright lies.

Ai-lie

In a conversation with Bari Weiss of The Free Press, iconic tech entrepreneur Marc Andreessen explains the government-corporation symbiotic relationship and how regulation can be used to implement AI censorship machines that intentionally lie to their public users and advance the government narrative of the day.

Marc Andreessen explains that AI is following a path similar to social media, becoming a "censorship machine" right from the start, as AI companies intentionally incorporate censorship practices learned from social media. He emphasizes that these decisions are "100% intentional," with companies hiring individuals from the social media sector to implement these policies. Andreessen argues that AI, unlike social media, is much more dangerous because it could become the "control layer for everything" in the future, including healthcare, education, and government. If AI systems are biased or politically controlled, it could lead to a "hyper Orwellian" society. He also points out that the push for AI regulation by large companies is a tactic of "regulatory capture," where big companies use regulations to secure a monopoly and prevent new competitors from emerging. This, he believes, is a dangerous and strategic move that must be resisted.

This is an example of a government disinformation campaign that cost American lives.

We have already witnessed the extreme consequences of government censorship and lying in the suppression of cheap, available, and effective COVID therapies like Ivermectin in favor of expensive government-subsidized experimental vaccines which were not vaccines and did not prevent or cure the “disease” the purported to cure. We have sworn testimony and documentary evidence that the government coerced social media platform operators into suppressing accurate information that the government later acknowledged as truthful.

Review of the Emerging Evidence Demonstrating the Efficacy of Ivermectin in the Prophylaxis and Treatment of COVID-19

Since 2012, a growing number of cellular studies have demonstrated that Ivermectin has antiviral properties against an increasing number of RNA viruses, including influenza, Zika, HIV, Dengue, and most importantly, SARS-CoV-2. Insights into the mechanisms of action by which Ivermectin both interferes with the entrance and replication of SARS-CoV-2 within human cells are mounting.

Data are also now available showing large and statistically significant decreases in the transmission of COVID-19 among human subjects based on data from 3 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and 5 observational controlled trials (OCTs) with 4 of the 8 (2 of them RCTs) published in peer-reviewed journals.

Conclusions: 

Meta-analyses based on 18 randomized controlled treatment trials of Ivermectin in COVID-19 have found large, statistically significant reductions in mortality, time to clinical recovery, and time to viral clearance. Furthermore, results from numerous controlled prophylaxis trials report significantly reduced risks of contracting COVID-19 with the regular use of Ivermectin. Finally, the many examples of ivermectin distribution campaigns leading to rapid population-wide decreases in morbidity and mortality indicate that an oral agent effective in all phases of COVID-19 has been identified. <Source>

Government’s Response…

FDA settles lawsuit over ivermectin content that doctors claimed harmed their practice

The US Food and Drug Administration has settled a lawsuit over some of its posts about Ivermectin, including what may have been one of its more popular pandemic-era social media campaigns.

In August 2021, to discourage people from using Ivermectin to prevent or treat Covid-19, the FDA tweeted “You are not a horse. You are not a cow. Serious y’all. Stop It.” and posted a similar message on Instagram. The tweet got nearly 106,000 likes.

The agency added that it has “not admitted any violation of law or any wrongdoing, disagrees with the plaintiffs’ allegation that the agency exceeded its authority in issuing the statements challenged in the lawsuit, and stands by its authority to communicate with the public regarding the products it regulates.

“FDA has not changed its position that currently available clinical trial data do not demonstrate that Ivermectin is effective against COVID-19. The agency has not authorized or approved Ivermectin for use in preventing or treating COVID-19.” <Source>

[OCS: The government rarely admits wrongdoing or assumes responsibility for its egregious actions until decades later when it serves no useful political purpose to hide the truth.]


FDA Sued For Concealing Documents on Government Suppression of Ivermectin And Hydroxychloroquine To Treat COVID-19

America First Legal (AFL) has sued the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as well as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for illegally concealing government records related to the suppression of hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) and Ivermectin to treat COVID-19, despite multiple requests under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). <Source>

[OCS: If the government had legitimate authority and scientific evidence reinforcing their claims, why are they hiding documents?]

Bottom line...

We must be extremely wary of our elected officials and scrutinize the backgrounds and actions of their appointees. We must guard against the industry-to-government revolving door and protect against an activist judiciary that implements binding rules and regulations using prearranged lawsuits, capitulations, and consent decrees to sneak past legislators. 

We are so screwed.

-- Steve


“Nullius in verba”-- take nobody's word for it!
"Acta non verba" -- actions not words

“Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.”-- George Bernard Shaw

“Progressive, liberal, Socialist, Marxist, Democratic Socialist -- they are all COMMUNISTS.”

“The key to fighting the craziness of the progressives is to hold them responsible for their actions, not their intentions.” – OCS

"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

“A people that elect corrupt politicians, imposters, thieves, and traitors are not victims... but accomplices” -- George Orwell

“Fere libenter homines id quod volunt credunt." (The people gladly believe what they wish to.) ~Julius Caesar

“Describing the problem is quite different from knowing the solution. Except in politics." ~ OCS


FTC WANTS TO SCREW YOU IN FAVOR OF LABOR UNIONS

I used to believe that the FTC was one of the government’s most honest and helpful agencies. This is no longer true, as the radical progressive communist democrats on the Commission promoted progressive values and pandered to their pro-union backers.

Ftc-union

The FTC mission…

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) primarily focuses on protecting competition and consumer welfare, ensuring that consumers have access to a wide variety of goods and services at competitive prices rather than directly advocating for or protecting specific groups of workers, including union employees. The FTC’s antitrust enforcement aims to prevent anti-competitive behavior such as monopolies, price-fixing, and anti-competitive mergers, which could harm consumers and stifle market competition.

The perversion of the FTC by the progressive communist democrats pandering to their union backers…

Ftc-hdr
FTC Challenges Kroger’s Acquisition of Albertsons

Today, the Federal Trade Commission sued to block the largest proposed supermarket merger in U.S. history—Kroger Company’s $24.6 billion acquisition of the Albertsons Companies, Inc.—alleging that the deal was anti-competitive.

The FTC charges that the proposed deal will eliminate fierce competition between Kroger and Albertsons, leading to higher prices for groceries and other essential household items for millions of Americans. The loss of competition will also lead to lower quality products and services while narrowing consumers’ choices for where to shop for groceries. For thousands of grocery store workers, Kroger’s proposed acquisition of Albertsons would immediately erase aggressive competition for workers, threatening the ability of employees to secure higher wages, better benefits, and improved working conditions.

Harm to Consumers

In addition to raising grocery prices, the FTC alleges that Kroger’s acquisition of Albertsons would diminish their incentive to compete on quality. Today, Kroger and Albertsons compete to improve their stores in many ways, including offering fresher produce, higher quality products, improved private label offerings, a broader array of in-store services, flexible store and pharmacy hours, and curbside pickup services.

The FTC charges that the deal would eliminate head-to-head price and quality competition, which have driven both supermarkets to lower their prices and improve their product and service offerings. If the merger occurs, grocery prices will increase, and Kroger and Albertsons’ incentive to improve product quality and customer service will decrease, further harming customers.

Harm to Workers

Kroger and Albertsons are the two largest employers of union grocery labor in the United States. They actively compete against one another for workers. The two companies also try to poach grocery workers from each other, especially in local markets where they overlap. Currently, most workers for both supermarket chains are members of the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) union.

UFCW and other unions today leverage the fact that Kroger and Albertsons are separate and competing companies. Unions push for both supermarket chains to negotiate better employment terms for union grocery workers, especially when negotiating over collective bargaining agreements (CBAs).

However, a combined Kroger/Albertsons would gain increased leverage over workers and their unions—to the detriment of workers, the FTC alleges. The combined Kroger and Albertsons would have more leverage to impose subpar terms on union grocery workers that slow improvements to wages, worsen benefits, and potentially degrade working conditions. In some regions, such as in Denver, the combined Kroger/Albertsons would be the only employer of union grocery labor. Union grocery workers’ ability to leverage the threat of a boycott or strike to negotiate better CBA terms would also be weakened.

<Source>

[OCS: Instead of allowing two compatible companies to combine to respond to increasing competition from companies such as Amazon, Walmart, and Costco, the FTC is ignoring efficiencies of scale and lowering operational costs to artificially increase the cost of labor.]

Thank heaven for Donald Trump…

Lina Khan, the current chair of the Federal Trade Commission, is associated with a radical shift in antitrust and regulatory policies, primarily due to her leftist, pro-labor viewpoint.

Her approach to antitrust enforcement diverges from traditional economic views, advocating for stronger regulation of large corporations, particularly tech giants, to promote competition, fairness, consumer protection, diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Khan’s radicalism stems from her belief that unchecked corporate power exacerbates inequality, undermines democracy, and harms workers. This perspective aligns her with the broader progressive movement, where she has garnered approval from influential leftist figures like Senator Elizabeth Warren and Senator Bernie Sanders.

Warren and Sanders have long championed antitrust reforms and labor protections, supporting Khan’s initiatives to promote economic justice for workers. Together, they represent a growing push for more robust government intervention to dismantle concentrated corporate power and ensure that pro-union policies supersede the need for profits.

From a podcast appearance...

[Lena Khan]

One thing that our lawsuit alleged was that if this merger goes through, it’s going to mean higher grocery prices for shoppers, but it’s also going to be worse for the workers. And this is the first time that the FTC has ever sought to block a merger, not just because it will be bad for consumers, but also because it will be bad for workers. And especially in recent decades, antitrust enforcers had not really been focused on the worker harms as much.

And that’s something we’ve really looked to change. So the complaint lays out how previously, when there has been competition between Kroger and Albertsons, that the workers at each store were able to use that competition as leverage when they were trying to bargain. And that if you allow these two companies to merge, that leverage that comes from having a potential alternative employer or an alternative store where customers can go if there’s a strike, but eliminating that leverage point and bargaining leverage would ultimately be bad for workers.

So again, this is still being litigated, but that was in the complaint as an explanation for why this merger would be bad for workers. When the FTC team put on the trial, they actually had on the stand some of the workers that are currently employed by these stores so that they could also share their experience. And just generally, I mean, there’s a lot of empirical evidence that now shows that after mergers, workers have seen pay cuts or a limit in any pay rises.

You often see layoffs. You can see workers have less negotiation power to figure out, will I even have a stable, predictable schedule? And so these are all dimensions of competition on the labor front that are important to protect for people.

Bottom line...

I am not a fan of labor unions whose value to society has outstripped their original function of protecting workers against grievous safety concerns and rapacious corporations exploiting workers. With all the government and legal resources available to employees, unions are little more than self-serving sources of political corruption and a clear and present danger to society.

They artificially inflate labor costs without a corresponding increase in productivity. They refuse to implement automated labor-saving devices. They are about graft and ghost jobs. And they have turned against their members by allowing their progressive communist democrat pals to flood the labor market with illegal aliens and foreign workers. 

We are doubly screwed by public service labor unions who duplicate built-in employee protections. 

-- Steve


“Nullius in verba”-- take nobody's word for it!
"Acta non verba" -- actions not words

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“Progressive, liberal, Socialist, Marxist, Democratic Socialist -- they are all COMMUNISTS.”

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