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THE ECONOMY: FIGURES DON'T LIE, BUT LIARS DO FIGURES

The government gets its headlines with preliminary statistics and then revises them after the fact…

Reuter

US fourth-quarter labor costs revised higher; productivity growth lowered
March 2, 2023

Hourly compensation increased at a 4.9% pace, instead of a 4.1% rate as previously reported. It rose at an 8.2% rate in the third quarter and grew at a 4.4% rate compared to the fourth quarter of 2021.

With labor costs revised higher, growth in nonfarm productivity, which measures hourly output per worker, was downgraded to a 1.7% rate from the previously reported 3.0% pace in the fourth quarter. Economists forecast productivity growth being lowered to a 2.6% rate. <Source>

The comparison between previously reported and revised numbers…

B2-hdr Table-b2<Source>

Note: The apparatchiks in the bureaucracy seek to please their managers first and then the regime in power. Every politician wants a great headline, even if it overstates the truth and minimizes the damage. Professionals who use this data know how to compensate for likely errors and use a multi-factor approach in making their own projections. 

I find it amazing how many economists, especially the Nobel Prize winner Paul Krugman at the New York Times, are consistently wrong, especially when they stray outside the limits of their expertise in opinion editorials. My go-to economists include Adam Smith, Milton Friedman, Friedrich Hayek, Walter Williams, Thomas Sowell, and a few others. 

Bottom line…

When it comes to happy talk, count the money in your wallet and check the return on your deposits and assets against inflation. Believe the government at your own peril.

It's a bitch when we can't count on our government to treat us like adults, tell us the truth, and leave us to make our own decisions.

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 GREATEST CONSPIRACY THEORY

“The New World Order”

One of the most fantastic conspiracy theories is that a secretive cabal of global elites, call it what you will, is working behind the scenes to establish a totalitarian world government. According to this pooh-poohed theory, the cabal comprises influential individuals from various fields, including politics, finance, and technology, who manipulate world events and control governments, economies, and media to further their agenda.

Supporters of this conspiracy theory often claim that the cabal seeks to erode national sovereignty, undermine individual freedoms, and establish a global surveillance state. They argue that major historical events, such as wars, economic crises, and political assassinations, are orchestrated by the cabal to maintain their power and advance their interests.

The naysayers claim that such a conspiracy theory is implausible because …  

  1. Lack of Concrete Evidence: Despite years of speculation and investigation by conspiracy theorists, no substantial evidence has emerged to support the existence of a secretive global elite working towards a world government. Extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence; therefore, the theory lacks solid, verifiable proof.

  2. Complexity and Scale: The alleged scope of the conspiracy is massive, involving countless individuals and organizations from different countries and backgrounds. Coordinating such a vast and complex operation while keeping it completely hidden would be logistically challenging and highly unlikely to go unnoticed.

  3. Diverse Interests and Conflicting Agendas: The notion that a cohesive global elite exists and can effectively conspire to control world events disregards the diverse interests and competing agendas among individuals and groups in positions of power. The theory assumes that individuals in positions of power, influence, and wealth are willing to set aside their own self-interest and work together for a common goal. 

    However, history has shown that people have diverse interests, motivations, ideologies, and priorities, making it improbable for them to work together toward a singular goal. Europe alone comprises numerous countries with different histories, political systems, ideologies, and interests. Coordinating a secretive global elite within this diverse landscape would be challenging and complicated while ensuring their loyalty and cooperation. National governments, institutions, and political parties have their own agendas, making it unlikely that they would willingly cede their sovereignty to a centralized global authority.

  4. Lack of Secrecy: Conspiracies of this scale typically struggle to maintain secrecy over extended periods. The idea that a worldwide conspiracy involving numerous influential individuals and institutions has remained wholly hidden for decades stretches credibility. Whistleblowers, leaks, and investigations would likely expose such a conspiracy.

  5. Historical Context and Change: The world has experienced significant shifts in power, geopolitical dynamics, and technological advancements over time. These changes and the unpredictability of historical events suggest that the idea of a small group maintaining control and dominance over long periods is unrealistic.

  6. Democratic Values and Public Opposition: The Western world, including Europe, have a robust system of democratic institutions, independent judiciaries, free media, and civil society organizations that upholds democratic values, individual freedoms, and the right to self-governance. Such values are deeply ingrained in civil societies, and public opposition would be significant if attempts were to subvert democratic principles and impose a totalitarian system. The concept of a secretive global elite controlling governments and suppressing freedoms would likely face widespread resistance and activism.

  7. Pluralism and Checks on Power: Democratic systems have mechanisms to provide checks and balances on concentrated power, ensuring transparency, accountability, and public scrutiny, including independent media, investigative journalism, and civil society organizations. Avenues for dissent exist, making it challenging for a secretive elite to exert absolute control.

  8. Technological Challenges: Establishing a totalitarian world government would require a sophisticated and pervasive surveillance apparatus. However, with technological advancements, keeping large-scale surveillance programs secret has become increasingly challenging. Whistleblowers, cybersecurity experts, and public awareness have made it difficult to maintain comprehensive surveillance without detection or resistance.

  9. Information and Communication Challenges: The cabal theory presupposes that a small group of elites controls and manipulates information flow to shape public opinion and suppress dissent. However, in today's interconnected world, information is disseminated through diverse channels, including independent media, social networks, and the Internet. Maintaining absolute control over information and preventing leaks or alternative narratives would be highly challenging.

What if?

  • There was a tightly controlled cabal aiming at world domination and able to take a multi-generational view extending in increments of one hundred years?

  • A cabal was able to police its own members as well as its own population?

  • A cabal was able to use human nature to its own advantage?

  • A cabal with their own evolving military that was able to short-circuit weapon development cycles and match the potency of weapons of their opposition and overwhelm them in numerical superiority?

  • A cabal with a nearly unlimited treasury that could manipulate the value of its currency to buy technology, individuals, and assets?

  • A cabal that could co-opt their opposition into adopting self-destructive behaviors, erase history, and create increasing chaos and uncertainty in the population?

  • A cabal that could co-opt legacy media, social media, and most modes of communication into substituting narrative for news and censoring dissidents?

  • A cabal that could rely on a large number of well-meaning but ignorant actions of “useful idiots?”

  • A cabal that could hide their actions by declaring their nefarious plan to be a “conspiracy theory?”

Blind, dumb bastards…

Creeping-socialism-1By now, you should realize we are not discussing a conspiracy theory involving a secretive cabal of global elites. We are talking about Communist China, which is well on its way to domination of the Western world.

I will not recount recent events or the trajectory of our nation’s “wokeist” behaviors. Nor will I discuss the increasing aggressiveness of China or the likelihood that they have purchased enough political power to materially damage our governing bodies, including intelligence and law enforcement agencies, weaken our military, and sap the vigor of Americans who may be conscripted to fight the next World War.

How can one justify the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Mark Milley's actions in potentially circumventing the lawful orders of the Commander-in-Chief of the military?

Milley called a secret meeting of senior military officials at the Pentagon on January 8 to review the process for military action — including launching nuclear weapons. He instructed those in charge of the National Military Command Center, the Pentagon's war room, not to take orders from anyone without his involvement. According to CNN, he told the officials, "No matter what you are told, you do the procedure. You do the process. And I'm part of that procedure." Milley then looked each officer in the eye and asked them to verbally confirm they understood his instructions.

Or on October 30, 2020, General Mark Milley reassured Chinese Gen. Li Zuocheng of the People’s Liberation Army, "If we’re going to attack, I’m going to call you ahead of time. It’s not going to be a surprise.”

Or that General Milley spoke with House Speaker Nancy Pelosi about the nuclear chain of command and did not inform the President of these actions.

Bottom line…

Something is up with China and likely to happen before the 2024 election when the feckless Biden regime is still in power.

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


DO YOU REALLY KNOW WHO YOU ARE CHATTING WITH?

Wolf-sheep

Automating political dirty tricks…

The availability of manipulative open-source social media programs and affordable computing power has made it easier for malicious and poisonous political actors to employ technology to disparage candidates, disrupt campaigns, and, in general, wreak havoc among individuals seeking truthful information or genuinely expressing an opinion.

The weaponization of technology in political activities can take various forms…

  1. Manipulative social media campaigns: Technology-created accounts can be employed to launch coordinated social media campaigns to polarize public opinion. These campaigns may involve spreading divisive content, targeting specific demographic groups, or exploiting sensitive issues to provoke emotional responses and create social divisions.

  2. Disinformation dissemination: Technology-created accounts can spread false or misleading information, often in fake news, fabricated stories, or selectively edited content. By strategically disseminating such disinformation, these accounts seek to manipulate public perception, erode trust in institutions, and amplify existing political divisions. Creating exploitable faux crises is a perfect example of using technology-created accounts to manipulate public opinion.

  3. Amplification of extreme voices: Technology-created accounts can amplify the voices of lone actors sitting in their basements in their underwear, fringe extremist groups, or disgruntled disruptors by giving them a platform to spew their poison and artificially inflate their influence. Promoting and sharing content from these accounts contributes to the normalization of extreme views and further polarization of political conversations.

  4. Creation of echo chambers: The automated creation of bot accounts can contribute to the creation of echo chambers, where individuals are exposed only to information and viewpoints that align with their beliefs. This can reinforce ideological divisions, hinder constructive political conversations, and lead to the entrenchment of polarized opinions.

  5. Targeted advertising and fundraising: It has never been easier to use artificial intelligence data mining and profiling to exploit the vast amount of online data to conduct targeted advertising, fundraising, or highly personalized messaging—techniques manipulating personal data to reinforce existing biases and exacerbate political divisions within a group.

  6. Cyberattacks and hacking: As a form of censorship, malignant political actors may launch cyberattacks against political campaigns, organizations, or individuals to gain unauthorized access to sensitive information, disrupt operations, or spread chaos. These attacks can include phishing attempts, malware distribution, or DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service) attacks.

Do you know who you are talking to?

Increased awareness is a must to mitigate the negative impact of technology on political activities. While legislators and political actors want to create regulations to safeguard the public, these are often little more than attempts to secure control over communications channels that serve the best interests of corrupt political actors and regime apparatchiks.

There is no doubt that bots and fake accounts can be programmed to:

  • Promote and amplify divisive messages, memes, or articles that target specific individuals and political groups.

  • Disseminate false or misleading information, including spreading rumors, fabricated news stories, or distorted facts to manipulate public perception and sway political discourse.

  • Engage in online arguments, sometimes between competing bots, to create personal attacks using inflammatory rhetoric to exacerbate existing political conflicts.

  • Create the AstroTurf perception that a particular viewpoint is more popular or widely accepted than it actually is to create widespread support for fringe issues.

  • Artificially manufacture infighting between members of a particular organization to destroy the organization's messaging and effectiveness.

Recognizing a social media bot can be challenging, as some bots are designed using natural language processing (NLP) techniques to mimic human speech and behavior to appear authentic. However, several red flags might assist you in identifying a fake account or a potential bot-created message.

  1. Profile Information: Check the profile information of the account. Artificially created accounts often have generic or incomplete profiles with little personal information. Look for signs like a lack of profile pictures, limited posts or activity, and minimal or repetitive bio information.

  2. Posting Frequency: Bots often post at regular intervals or in a pattern. Look for a high volume of similarly themed posts within a short period or post or posted at odd hours consistently.

  3. Content Quality: Bots tend to generate low-quality content with poor grammar, spelling mistakes, or nonsensical phrases. Look for excessive hashtags or repetitive phrases.

  4. Lack of Personal Engagement: Bots appear to lack personal engagement when responding to comments, mentions, or direct messages, or they may react with generic replies or wildly unrelated messages.

  5. Repetitive or Generic Content: Bots often share the same or similar content repeatedly using re-posts and re-tweets containing identical messages across multiple accounts. Look for patterns in the content they share or post.

  6. Network Analysis: Analyze an account's followers and those they follow. It could indicate a bot network if most of its followers have suspicious characteristics (e.g., no profile picture, limited activity, few followers).

  7. Unusual Account Behavior: Bots may exhibit unusual behavior, such as following an excessive number of accounts within a short period, liking or retweeting unrelated content, or engaging in spammy behavior, like sending unsolicited messages or mentions.

  8. Automated Responses: Bots often use pre-set or automated responses to interact with others. They may reply with generic messages that don't directly address the context of the conversation.

It is important to note that what appears to be red flag behavior is not definitive proof of a bot's presence. The account and response might come from a newbie trying their social media wings or a uniformed, lesser-educated individual.

Bottom line…

We live in an age where computers can create the perception of reality, flooding us with deep fakes that look and sound like real things.

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


TURNING OFF

Off

Throughout its relatively short history, the United States has prided itself on being a nation of immigrants, a melting pot of cultures and ideas that have morphed into patriotic Americans with a culture of American exceptionalism.

However, there has been a noticeable shift in the national demeanor and behavior in recent years. Rather than celebrating our diversity and achievements, America is seemingly becoming a nation of apathetic, ignorant individuals doting on celebrities and treating politics as a team sport.

We are screwed by our politicians, government bureaucrats, and the media to the point where we live in an era marked by a healthy skepticism of experts, a rejection of scientific evidence, and the proliferation of misinformation.

Critical thinking and intellectual discourse have taken a backseat to the entertainment offered up by propagandists selling a narrative and not telling the truth.

We live among a hoard of ignorant individuals who believe America is deeply flawed, a no man’s land of toxic masculinity where little boys are transformed into little girls by wishful thinking. Listening to the Federal Reserve, you might believe America is just one Nigerian Prince away from solvency. A land where DEI has turned diversity, equity, and inclusion into discrimination, exclusion, and indoctrination.

I am tired of listening to Trump’s carnival pitch about “Rob DeSanctimonious.” I am tired of listening to a President who has checked out long ago and is manipulated by others. I am tired of political parties that have failed the American people and produced putzes instead of politicians who can rise to become statesmen.

Time to turn off and recharge…

I am tired of living in a world filled with constant noise, information overload, and an endless pursuit of political advantage. I find something liberating about the concept of "nothing." It may seem counterintuitive, but in the absence of activity and stimulation, I think we can find healthy introspection, creativity, and a profound sense of tranquility.

  1. The Art of Doing Nothing: In our hyperconnected society, the concept of doing nothing is generally regarded as a waste of time or unproductive. However, embracing moments of idleness can lead to a deeper understanding of ourselves and our world. Taking a break from constant busyness allows our minds to wander freely, giving rise to new ideas and perspectives. Engaging in activities with fellow citizens restores the concept of friendship and puts the lie to its electronic equivalent, “the like.”

  2. Finding Stillness in Nature: Nature has a remarkable ability to offer solace and respite from the chaos of daily life. When we immerse ourselves in natural surroundings, we can witness the profound beauty of stillness. Observing a tranquil lake, listening to the rustling of leaves in a forest, or gazing at a starlit sky can evoke a sense of awe and remind us of the vastness of the universe. Nature teaches us the importance of embracing moments of nothingness and appreciating the present.

  3. The Power of Silence: Silence has become a precious commodity in a world filled with noise. Silence is a rarity, whether it's the hum of electronic devices or the constant chatter of our inner mind. Yet, in moments of silence, we can truly listen and connect with ourselves and others. Silence allows us to be fully present, hear our intuition's whispers, and foster deeper connections with those around us. By embracing silence, we create space for reflection and meaningful conversations.

Bottom line…

In a culture that values constant productivity and external stimulation, the beauty of nothingness often goes unnoticed. Notice it. Enjoy it, for it won’t last long.

Never before have so many individuals been so blind to the clear and present danger facing our nation.

Think about it as you walk down a garden path. Resolve to do something – even if it is to vote and bring your friends along to vote. 

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 POLITICIANS KNOW WE ARE SCREWED AND THEY SAY AND DO NOTHING

The truth they refuse to tell you…

Gao-header

You may have noticed that all of the politicians yammering on and on about the debt ceiling have said absolutely nothing about a report recently released by the Government Accountability Office explaining the unsustainability of our wasteful spending.

Gao-hdr-2

The federal government faces an unsustainable long-term fiscal future. At the end of fiscal year 2022, debt held by the public was about 97 percent of gross domestic product (GDP). Projections from the Office of Management and Budget and the Department of the Treasury, the Congressional Budget Office, and GAO all show that current fiscal policy is unsustainable over the long term. Debt held by the public is projected to grow at a faster pace than the size of the economy. Debt held by the public is projected to reach its historical high of 106 percent of GDP within 10 years and to continue to grow at an increasing pace. GAO projects that this ratio could reach more than twice the size of the economy by 2051, absent any changes in revenue and spending policies.

Net interest spending will continue to increase because of both higher levels of overall debt, and projected increases in interest rates over the long-term. Higher than projected interest rates would further increase interest costs and debt. In addition to increased borrowing costs, rising debt could lead to slower economic growth.

Other potential fiscal risks stem from delays in raising or suspending the debt limit—the legal limit on the total amount of money that the federal government is authorized to borrow to meet its existing legal obligations. These delays could create disruptions to financial markets, and investors may require higher interest rates to hedge against increased risks, which, in turn, could increase borrowing costs. Failure to raise the debt limit in time to prevent a default would have much more dire economic and reputational consequences.

[OCS: Everybody knew the deadline, yet both sides did nothing. Wanting to create a crisis, grab media face-time, and push through untenable provisions that would typically be negotiated away.]

<Source: Highlights/Full Report>

Bottom line…

We do not have a revenue problem; we have a spending problem, with much of the pork used to influence campaign contributions and reelection bids.

Washington politicians and insiders cannot fix the nation’s financial problems as they all have vested self-interests. We must break up the Washington power elite by decentralizing agencies into other states across the nation. 

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


CLIMATE CHANGE: THERE IS STUPID AND THERE IS COMMIE STUPID

HANOI-JANE-CLIMATE

Once again, an aging, out-of-touch progressive communist democrat “Hanoi Jane” Fonda attempts to remain relevant and sounds stupid in the process…

Speaking at the Cannes Film Festival, Fonda noted that since she does not have any movie or TV roles lined up, and is planning to focus most, if not all, of her attention on the issue of climate change.

Ignoring the fact that the most significant drivers of global climate change, the Sun’s energy output in all spectral bands, cosmic rays, the Earth’s position relative to the Sun, the Earth’s precessional and rotational dynamics, the Earth’s vulcanology and plate tectonics, the Earth’s deep ocean currents, and the most significant greenhouse gas, water vapor, are all beyond man’s control, she blames the patriarchy of white men.

Responding to an audience question, she said, “It’s good for us all to realize, there would be no climate crisis if there was no racism. There would be no climate crisis if there was no patriarchy. A mindset that sees things in a hierarchical way. White men are the things that matter and then everything else [is] at the bottom.”

She added, So when I say that I’m fighting the climate crisis, I also feel that I’m fighting patriarchy and racism. It’s important because we have to get out of the silos — feminists and environmentalists over here. That’s what I learned when I started being an activist around the Vietnam War. The more you go down any issue, the more you realize that it’s all connected. And if we solve the climate crisis and haven’t solved those other things, we’ll be in trouble.”

No, you communist bitch, you were not an activist; you were a traitor – the equivalent of Japan’s propagandist Tokyo Rose – attempting to demoralize American soldiers – many located in horrific conditions near where you were spouting nonsense. Now you appear to be shilling for the Communist Chinese.

Bottom line…

You cannot trust the progressive communist democrats with national security or anything 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


WHAT'S WRONG WITH TIM SCOTT AND ESTABLISHMENT REPUBLICANS?

BIDEN-DEBT-NEGOTIATION

By all accounts, Republican Senator Tim Scott, the Black conservative senator from South Carolina, is a nice guy. And therein lies the problem. When faced with progressive communist democrats who want to destroy America from within, can we demonstrate weakness by moderating our rhetoric and policies, both foreign and domestic?

I say HELL NO!'

One needs only see how Republicans like George Bush, Mitt Romney, and Lindsey Graham had fared when they stepped over the line to negotiate with radical Democrats whose party had been deeply infiltrated by communists.

The influence of radical left-leaning ideologies took root within the present generation of Democrat leaders in the 1960s and 1970s when their social movements advocating for civil rights, anti-war protests, and social justice issues gained momentum. Today, those who minimize this malignant influence that is a clear and present danger to America claim that it is essential to distinguish between left-wing ideologies, which may include socialism or social democracy, and actual communism.

This is bullshit, as the endpoint of all leftist ideologies is authoritarian fascism or communism, whereas the endpoint of capitalism is more capitalism. No matter how Democrats identify themselves, liberals, progressives, or centrists, they support an un-American agenda doing significant damage to the United States.

Why the progressive communist democrats are winning the battle…

  1. They have no shame. With progressive communist democrats, it is never about hypocrisy but hierarchy and power.

  2. They win when they appear to lose, always moving forward with their agenda. Primarily using the "salami technique," named after eating a large salami one thin slice at a time, where a larger goal is achieved through a series of small, incremental steps. Note their practice of gradually implementing their despicable communist agenda by dividing it into smaller, less controversial parts. Each part is presented individually and is more likely to be accepted or tolerated by the public and political opposition. By doing so, the larger distasteful objective can be achieved without attracting significant resistance or attention.

  3. They have no problem switching sides to implement their agenda from within the opposition. This is why you can find progressive communist democrats within the Republican Party but find no Republicans in the Democrat Party.

  4. They understand power and are unafraid to use it regardless of how it appears to bystanders. Blackmail, the threat of investigation and prosecution, or even financial or sexual set-ups are not beyond their dirty tricks. If you doubt this, consider the entirety of Hilary Clinton’s dirty “Russia-Russia” campaign against Donald Trump to see each of these techniques playing out in full public view.

  5. They understand the intersection of perception and power and have invested time, effort, and money to capture the legacy and social media. Media that promotes narrative over news, censors objective facts and cancels dissident voices.

Looking at the debt ceiling negotiations…

Consider the debt ceiling and the objective fact that the United States can service our debt, pay for entitlements, and fund the military out of current revenue.

The sticking point is that Congress must prioritize the remaining expenditures and eliminate non-productive agencies, programs, and projects. Many of which feed the special interests in the Congressman’s District or Senator’s State – possibly imperiling their reelection.

Freedom Caucus Says McCarthy Got Rolled on the Debt Ceiling and the Evidence Indicates They Are Right

Saturday night, President Joe Biden’s representative and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy agreed in principle on increasing the US debt ceiling by some $4 trillion over two years. This averted another “default crisis” that would have allegedly caused all kinds of nasty things to happen.

Speaker McCarthy was on Fox News Sunday this morning explaining the deal. The official line is that in return for a two-year debt ceiling increase, spending will be held flat in FY2024 and reduced in 2025.

The deal scraps $131 billion in cuts to return bureaucracy to pre-COVID levels in favor of keeping spending at the 2023 Omnibus spending bill.

[OCS: Semantics: lowering the budget does not restrain profligate or unwise spending.]

Work requirements are abandoned for Medicaid. Biden’s “Inflation Reduction Act,” which Goldman Sachs says costs $1.2 trillion, is retained.

[OCS: The "Inflation Reduction Act" moniker is a blatant lie. Increased spending aggravates inflation.]

The REINS Act is abandoned. Biden’s unlawful student loan bailout is punted back to the courts.

[OCS: With the Courts slow-walking the issue while a single progressive communist democrat Federal Judge green-lights the plan.]

The IRS keeps its 87,000 new agents. You’ll hear about the $2 billion cut from the IRS this year, but that is from their proposed budget increase. It doesn’t cut that agency.

[OCS: Armed agents with new surveillance techniques and hidden powers. Another agency weaponized against the people by a corrupt regime.]

The only bright light is that the deal claws back $29 billion in unspent COVID-19 baksheesh.

[OCS: This is a joke. The money was not in one of the regime’s many slush funds. Remember, this is a budgeted but unallocated amount, so the number is meaningless.]

Also, note that the two-year deal takes the debt ceiling off the table during an election year.

[OCS: Both parties agree – hide the egregious spending from the public during an election year when pre-election promises have real political consequences no matter who is elected.]

This is not the “Limit, Save, Grow” plan sold to the House GOP. This is little short of a wholesale capitulation to Biden and a forfeiture of McCarthy’s duty to the people who gave him a house majority.

Biden gets to keep all of his COVID spending as a budget baseline. He gets to use our money to rescue his supporters from the stupid college loan decisions they made. More than that, there is no guarantee that Biden will keep any of his promises about reducing spending next year, and with a debt ceiling already locked in, the GOP has zero leverage. So we get a “deal.” <Source>

[OCS: We would have been better off if McCarthy sat in the corner and did nothing!]

Bottom line…

Yes, we should reform our corrupt government agencies, but it should start with our corrupt political party apparatus and apparatchiks.

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


MEMORIAL DAY, 2023

On this Memorial Day, 2023 …

Cartoonist Michael Ramirez says it all...

MR

Today, we commemorate our brave soldiers who died or were grievously wounded to safeguard our precious freedom. As we reflect on these sacrifices, let us honor their lives and consider and condemn those who would waste their magnificent contribution to America by knowingly collaborating with our enemies or restricting our God-given inalienable rights enshrined in our Constitution.

Those politicians, jurists, and others who overtly or covertly undermine or subvert our Constitution are every bit the foe of every American as if they were standing on the battlefield under arms.

Freedom is being squandered by self-serving traitors selling out our nation and its citizens for temporary political power.

While our troops fought to protect each other and our nation, today's political leadership, from the corrupt, incompetent, uncaring politicians, the bureaucratic cadre of progressive communist democrats, the activist judiciary which creates laws out of whole cloth, and those big technology multinationals that surreptitiously provide aid and comfort to our enemies, you are all little more than traitors in the battle to preserve America and American freedom.

Be grateful for your freedom; remember, it should never be taken for granted. In just a few cycles of progressive communist democrat intervention, we have seen our national resolve, military strength, and stature within the international community eroded by corrupt, incompetent, and uncaring progressive communist democrats. Our enemy appears to own the Democrat Party, which should rightly brand itself as the U.S. Communist Party.

Remember who we are and what we stand for -- and kick the bastards that do not agree to the curb.

The Patriotic Kid wishes you and yours a worshipful memorial day …

Amerikid

 

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And reminds you that it is not the government, the media, or the community organizers but our VETERANS: past, present, and future, who ensure your safety, security, and Constitutional liberties. 

And while the Democrats decide that their political agenda is more important than leading our great nation …

Cow

Our men and women in uniform, their civilian support services, and their families are sacrificing to keep this nation strong and free.

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Be safe, be well, and care for yourself and your family first.

WHEN YOU ENTER THE VOTING BOOTH, REMEMBER THAT TODAY, THE AMERICA WE KNOW AND LOVE IS MORE AT RISK AT THE BALLOT BOX THAN ON THE BATTLEFIELD.

My father (ARMY) December 6, 1941, just before the attack on Pearl Harbor, and his best friend Freddie (USAF - Korea)...

Memorial-2022

ARMY 1941 - 1945 Pacific Theatre Service with 24th Infantry "the first to fight" Division, 63rd Field Artillery Battalion, Battery "C" (Scholfield Barracks -- Taromen) - Pearl Harbor Survivor

-- 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


BUD LIGHT: IT'S ALL ABOUT "THE PACKAGE"

Bud

As we have learned from master marketer Rory Sutherland, Vice Chairman of Ogilvy UK and the founder of its behavioral science practice, packaging plays a crucial role in influencing consumer perception and product success. The power of packaging lies in its ability to attract attention, shape consumer perception, create a memorable brand identity, communicate product information, influence purchasing decisions, and evoke emotions.

It also has the power to destroy a well-performing product and damage an iconic brand.

In what world would you knowingly use a delusional dude celebrating his 365th day as a woman as a brand representative influencer?

Dm-bl
Lite beer has historically been associated with male consumers in the 25-44 age range who are social and attracted to lighter beer options due to health consciousness and calorie control. So why would you pander to a tiny market audience if not for virtue signaling by a “woke” middle management seeking media praise for their “enlightened” behavior? Is it worth the risk to go against millions of dollars of demographic and psychographic market research to make a political statement?

For brand managers: a dummies guide to the relationship between packaging and perception:

  1. First Impression: Packaging is the first point of contact between a consumer and a product. Typically a package has a glance to capture attention and create a positive first impression. The packaging's design, colors, and overall aesthetics can evoke emotions and convey the product's intended message.

  2. Brand Identity: Packaging is crucial in establishing and reinforcing a brand's identity. Consistent packaging design across a product line creates brand recognition, loyalty, quality, and assurance of a consistent outcome for the user.

  3. Communicating Product Information: Packaging provides vital information about the product, such as its features, ingredients, usage instructions, and nutritional content. Packaging can highlight unique selling points, certifications, or eco-friendly attributes to appeal to specific target markets.

  4. Perceived Value: Packaging influences consumers' perception of a product's value.

  5. Emotional Connection: Packaging can evoke emotions and create a connection with consumers. It can tap into nostalgia, humor, aspirations, or re-affirm one’s self-image, generating positive associations with the product.

  6. Differentiation and Shelf Appeal: Packaging plays a vital role in standing out from competitors in a crowded marketplace.

Bottom line…

If you are five and believe you are a girl, that’s playacting; if you are eighteen, that’s gender dysphoria, a recognized mental illness that seems to primarily afflict progressive communist democrats looking for self-affirmation, belonging, or attention.

We are so screwed when we are forced to buy into identity politics and affirm the delusions of others.

Just leave me alone and keep your behavioral quirks to yourself.

-- 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