quote[Once would be a lame joke; twice, a symptom of a seriously impaired sense of humor. Three times, however, is suggestive of seriously malevolent intentions. In our system of government, which remains in form – if not in practice – a constitutional republic, chief executives simply do not joke about dictatorial ambitions.
Here's a useful parallel. It is a serious federal offense even to joke about wanting to kill the President of the United States. Doing so even one time is sufficient to provoke a visit from the Secret Service. Were someone to do so three times, he would almost certainly face prosecution, as well as an invasive psychological evaluation.
Shouldn't it be considered just as grave an offense for a president, who swore an oath in God's name to uphold our Constitution, to make jokes about murdering our republic in order to erect a dictatorship?]
His own words...
Friday, December 30, 2005
Lobbyist, Prosecutors Said Close to Deal
quote[Federal prosecutors and lawyers for Republican lobbyist Jack Abramoff consulted briefly Friday with a federal judge in Miami as they put the finishing touches on a plea deal that could be announced as early as Tuesday, according to sources familiar with the negotiations.
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The plea agreement would secure the lobbyist's testimony against several members of Congress who received favors from him or his clients.]
More repugs about to go down???
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The plea agreement would secure the lobbyist's testimony against several members of Congress who received favors from him or his clients.]
More repugs about to go down???
Blagojevich to Rumsfeld: Act against trafficking
quote[In a letter expected to go to Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld on Friday, Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich said he is troubled by the Pentagon's inaction on human trafficking and called on Rumsfeld to take aggressive measures to protect human rights.
Blagojevich, a former congressman, was reacting to a story in Tuesday's Tribune about the Pentagon's delay in adopting rules that bar overseas contractors from supporting human trafficking for forced labor and prostitution. His letter also is in response to a Tribune series in October, "Pipeline to Peril," that exposed an illicit pipeline used to funnel thousands of workers from South Asia to privatized U.S. military support operations in Iraq.
"The time to act is now," Blagojevich told Rumsfeld, according to a copy of the letter provided by the governor's office. The letter also touts a new Illinois law, which takes effect Sunday, that Blagojevich says will create stiff new penalties for anyone engaged in trafficking.]
Blagojevich, a former congressman, was reacting to a story in Tuesday's Tribune about the Pentagon's delay in adopting rules that bar overseas contractors from supporting human trafficking for forced labor and prostitution. His letter also is in response to a Tribune series in October, "Pipeline to Peril," that exposed an illicit pipeline used to funnel thousands of workers from South Asia to privatized U.S. military support operations in Iraq.
"The time to act is now," Blagojevich told Rumsfeld, according to a copy of the letter provided by the governor's office. The letter also touts a new Illinois law, which takes effect Sunday, that Blagojevich says will create stiff new penalties for anyone engaged in trafficking.]
Wednesday, December 28, 2005
Bush was denied wiretaps, bypassed them
quote[U.S. President George Bush decided to skip seeking warrants for international wiretaps because the court was challenging him at an unprecedented rate.]
In a dictatorship, there is no rule of law for the king.
In a dictatorship, there is no rule of law for the king.
Rice authorized National Security Agency to spy on UN Security Council in run-up to war, former officials say
quote[President Bush and other top officials in his administration used the National Security Agency to secretly wiretap the home and office telephones and monitor private email accounts of members of the United Nations Security Council in early 2003 to determine how foreign delegates would vote on a U.N. resolution that paved the way for the U.S.-led war in Iraq, NSA documents show.]
For all the spying going on, this administration still has less than a lackluster record on intelligence.
For all the spying going on, this administration still has less than a lackluster record on intelligence.
Bush's counsel on spying now under close scrutiny
quote[When President Bush sought to reassure the country that his authorization of spying on Americans without warrants was a reasonable exercise of his power, he emphasized that his orders were always reviewed by the attorney general and the White House counsel.
''Each review is based on a fresh intelligence assessment of terrorist threats to continuity of our government and the threat of catastrophic damage to our homeland," Bush said in his Dec. 17 radio address. ''The review includes approval by our nation's top legal officials, including the attorney general and the counsel to the president."
The current occupants of those jobs are Attorney General Alberto Gonzales and White House counsel Harriet E. Miers. Prior to 2005, Gonzales was White House counsel and John Ashcroft was attorney general.
The current dispute over whether the president had the authority to order domestic spying without warrants, despite a law against it, has put new focus on the legal officials who have guided Bush. And the qualifications of Ashcroft, Gonzales, and Miers could become a focus of the upcoming Senate hearings on the spying decision.]
''Each review is based on a fresh intelligence assessment of terrorist threats to continuity of our government and the threat of catastrophic damage to our homeland," Bush said in his Dec. 17 radio address. ''The review includes approval by our nation's top legal officials, including the attorney general and the counsel to the president."
The current occupants of those jobs are Attorney General Alberto Gonzales and White House counsel Harriet E. Miers. Prior to 2005, Gonzales was White House counsel and John Ashcroft was attorney general.
The current dispute over whether the president had the authority to order domestic spying without warrants, despite a law against it, has put new focus on the legal officials who have guided Bush. And the qualifications of Ashcroft, Gonzales, and Miers could become a focus of the upcoming Senate hearings on the spying decision.]
Happy Holidays
Due to the holidays and an illness, I have been unable to update very often. I sincerely apologize and wish all who visit a happy holidays and the best for the new year.
Friday, December 23, 2005
Congress EXPLICITLY Denied Bush Domestic Wiretapping Authority Following 9-11
quote["Literally minutes before the Senate cast its vote, the administration sought to add the words 'in the United States and' after 'appropriate force' in the agreed-upon text," Daschle wrote. "This last-minute change would have given the president broad authority to exercise expansive powers not just overseas -- where we all understood he wanted authority to act -- but right here in the United States, potentially against American citizens. I could see no justification for Congress to accede to this extraordinary request for additional authority. I refused."
Daschle wrote that Congress also rejected draft language from the White House that would have authorized the use of force to "deter and pre-empt any future acts of terrorism or aggression against the United States," not only against those responsible for the Sept. 11 attacks.]
Could it be any clearer???
Daschle wrote that Congress also rejected draft language from the White House that would have authorized the use of force to "deter and pre-empt any future acts of terrorism or aggression against the United States," not only against those responsible for the Sept. 11 attacks.]
Could it be any clearer???
Thursday, December 22, 2005
Police Infiltrate Protests, Videotapes Show
quote[Undercover New York City police officers have conducted covert surveillance in the last 16 months of people protesting the Iraq war, bicycle riders taking part in mass rallies and even mourners at a street vigil for a cyclist killed in an accident, a series of videotapes show.In glimpses and in glaring detail, the videotape images reveal the robust presence of disguised officers or others working with them at seven public gatherings since August 2004.
The officers hoist protest signs. They hold flowers with mourners. They ride in bicycle events. At the vigil for the cyclist, an officer in biking gear wore a button that said, "I am a shameless agitator." She also carried a camera and videotaped the roughly 15 people present.]
John Gibson Goes Nuts Over His War On Christmas
quote[Boston: John, your war on Christmas is bogus, it doesn't exist-it's thinner than drugstore wrapping paper.
(Gibson had to prod Gary on since he was getting pasted.)
Gibson: You're defending me Gary, get busy.
Gibson said it was his book and O'Reilly's campaign that is restoring Christmas.
Gibson: You can't do this-this year because you got caught.
Boston: You guys are rich. This stuff was made up. I called school superintendents and said you know O'Reilly...said you can't have cookies at your school...
Gibson interrupting: Rob-Rob-Rob, stop right there-Rob-ROB-STOP-RIGHT-THERE!
Boston: No you're wrong John, I'm not gonna stop...
Gibson: Yea you are, because the incidents in my book are not lies--if you're calling me a liar let's go one on one of it. --Hey Rob! Straighten up, you just called me a liar-Back up your charges--(Gary-pipe down)--Rob, you just called me a liar!--I did not say that!---(Gary, Stop!)
Gibson: If you're calling me a liar on that, you're going to get sued next.
Boston: Now you've changed your story.
Gibson had no use for McCaleb in the segment and finally pulled the plug on Boston.]
This was a hilarious clip!
(Gibson had to prod Gary on since he was getting pasted.)
Gibson: You're defending me Gary, get busy.
Gibson said it was his book and O'Reilly's campaign that is restoring Christmas.
Gibson: You can't do this-this year because you got caught.
Boston: You guys are rich. This stuff was made up. I called school superintendents and said you know O'Reilly...said you can't have cookies at your school...
Gibson interrupting: Rob-Rob-Rob, stop right there-Rob-ROB-STOP-RIGHT-THERE!
Boston: No you're wrong John, I'm not gonna stop...
Gibson: Yea you are, because the incidents in my book are not lies--if you're calling me a liar let's go one on one of it. --Hey Rob! Straighten up, you just called me a liar-Back up your charges--(Gary-pipe down)--Rob, you just called me a liar!--I did not say that!---(Gary, Stop!)
Gibson: If you're calling me a liar on that, you're going to get sued next.
Boston: Now you've changed your story.
Gibson had no use for McCaleb in the segment and finally pulled the plug on Boston.]
This was a hilarious clip!
Wednesday, December 21, 2005
Abramoff Is About To Name Names
quote[Jack Abramoff, the Republican lobbyist under criminal investigation, has been discussing with prosecutors a deal that would grant him a reduced sentence in exchange for testimony against former political and business associates, people with detailed knowledge of the case say.
Mr. Abramoff is believed to have extensive knowledge of what prosecutors suspect is a wider pattern of corruption among lawmakers and Congressional staff members. One participant in the case who insisted on anonymity because of the sensitivity of the negotiations described him as a "unique resource."
Other people involved in the case or who have been officially briefed on it said the talks had reached a tense phase, with each side mindful of the date Jan. 9, when Mr. Abramoff is scheduled to stand trial in Miami in a separate prosecution.
What began as a limited inquiry into $82 million of Indian casino lobbying by Mr. Abramoff and his closest partner, Michael Scanlon, has broadened into a far-reaching corruption investigation of mainly Republican lawmakers and aides suspected of accepting favors in exchange for legislative work.]
This is going to be interesting.
Mr. Abramoff is believed to have extensive knowledge of what prosecutors suspect is a wider pattern of corruption among lawmakers and Congressional staff members. One participant in the case who insisted on anonymity because of the sensitivity of the negotiations described him as a "unique resource."
Other people involved in the case or who have been officially briefed on it said the talks had reached a tense phase, with each side mindful of the date Jan. 9, when Mr. Abramoff is scheduled to stand trial in Miami in a separate prosecution.
What began as a limited inquiry into $82 million of Indian casino lobbying by Mr. Abramoff and his closest partner, Michael Scanlon, has broadened into a far-reaching corruption investigation of mainly Republican lawmakers and aides suspected of accepting favors in exchange for legislative work.]
This is going to be interesting.
Even More On The Domestic Spying...
quote[But in at least one instance, someone using an international cellphone was thought to be outside the United States when in fact both people in the conversation were in the country. Officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity because the program remains classified, would not discuss the number of accidental intercepts, but the total is thought to represent a very small fraction of the total number of wiretaps that Mr. Bush has authorized without getting warrants. In all, officials say the program has been used to eavesdrop on as many as 500 people at any one time, with the total number of people reaching perhaps into the thousands in the last three years.]
This is going to be huge!
This is going to be huge!
Secret Spying Captured Some Domestic Calls: Report
quote[A program U.S. President George W. Bush ordered allowing warrantless spying on Americans with suspected terrorist ties unintentionally captured a small number of purely domestic communications, The New York Times reported on Tuesday.
The newspaper, citing unidentified officials, said the calls were snagged despite a White House requirement that one end of the intercepted conversations take place on foreign soil.
The officials were cited as saying that the National Security Agency's interception of communications between people within the United States was apparently accidental, caused by technical glitches in determining whether a communication was in fact ``international.'']
Unbe-fucking-leivable!
The newspaper, citing unidentified officials, said the calls were snagged despite a White House requirement that one end of the intercepted conversations take place on foreign soil.
The officials were cited as saying that the National Security Agency's interception of communications between people within the United States was apparently accidental, caused by technical glitches in determining whether a communication was in fact ``international.'']
Unbe-fucking-leivable!
Tuesday, December 20, 2005
Did Bush domestic spy program eavesdrop on American journalists?
quote[I had an interesting discussion this morning with DC political consultant Marc Laitin. We both came to the conclusion that it sounds like Bush's super-secret illegal domestic spying program may be targeting US journalists and that may be why Bush never got it cleared by the court and is worried about it coming forward now.
Think about it.]
Interesting, and scary, possibility...
Think about it.]
Interesting, and scary, possibility...
Explosives Heist One of the Biggest in Recent History
quote[According to federal officials, the theft of 400 pounds of high-powered plastic explosives in New Mexico is one of the largest high explosives heists in recent history.
The material was taken from Cherry Engineering, a company owned by Chris Cherry, a scientist at Sandia National Labs. The site, located outside Albuquerque, had no guards and no surveillance cameras. It was the site's second theft in the past two years.]
I thought Bush was supposed to make this country safer...
The material was taken from Cherry Engineering, a company owned by Chris Cherry, a scientist at Sandia National Labs. The site, located outside Albuquerque, had no guards and no surveillance cameras. It was the site's second theft in the past two years.]
I thought Bush was supposed to make this country safer...
Censure motion introduced in House over Iraq, torture
quote[Ranking House Judiciary Democrat Rep. John Conyers (D-MI) has introduced a motion to censure President Bush and Vice President Cheney for providing misleading information to Congress in advance of the Iraq war, failing to respond to written questions and potential violations of international law, RAW STORY has learned.
The resolutions were quietly introduced Sunday evening along with a third resolution (HR 635) to create a Select Committee to investigate the administration’s intent to go to war prior to congressional authorization. The committee would also be charged with examining manipulation of pre-war intelligence, thwarting Congressional oversight and retaliatory attacks against critics. As part of this resolution, House Judiciary Democrats seek also to explore violations of international law as pertaining to detainee abuse and torture of prisoners of war.]
It's about time...
The resolutions were quietly introduced Sunday evening along with a third resolution (HR 635) to create a Select Committee to investigate the administration’s intent to go to war prior to congressional authorization. The committee would also be charged with examining manipulation of pre-war intelligence, thwarting Congressional oversight and retaliatory attacks against critics. As part of this resolution, House Judiciary Democrats seek also to explore violations of international law as pertaining to detainee abuse and torture of prisoners of war.]
It's about time...
Monday, December 19, 2005
Big Brother Bush / The president took a step toward a police state
quote[It appears that the phone and e-mail messages of thousands of Americans and foreigners resident in America have been or are being monitored and recorded by the NSA. Such action is not supposed to be taken without an application to and an order approved by the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court. Mr. Bush issued an executive order in 2002, months after the Sept. 11, 2001, attack, removing -- secretly -- that legal safeguard of Americans' privacy and civil rights.]
Is our brief experiment in democracy and liberty finally coming to an end?
Is our brief experiment in democracy and liberty finally coming to an end?
Osama, Saddam? What's in a name?
quote["In the late 1990s, our government was following Osama bin Laden because he was using a certain type of telephone and then the fact that we were following Osama bin Laden because he was using a certain type of telephone made it into the press as the result of a leak," Bush said.
"And guess what happened. Saddam ...Osama bin Laden changed his behavior. He began to change how he communicated. We're at war. And we must protect America's secrets."]
Is Bush just a moron? Or can't he distinguish his enemies?
"And guess what happened. Saddam ...Osama bin Laden changed his behavior. He began to change how he communicated. We're at war. And we must protect America's secrets."]
Is Bush just a moron? Or can't he distinguish his enemies?
Bush vows more eavesdropping
quote[President George W. Bush vowed on Monday to authorize more eavesdropping on Americans suspected of ties to terrorists and said he believed a probe was underway into who committed "the shameful act" of revealing the covert program.
Bush, struggling with low approval ratings and wide public discontent with the rising U.S. death toll, also defended his decision to invade Iraq, saying "it wasn't a mistake."]
It may be grossly unconstitutional, but does King Bush care??
No.
Welcome to the police state.
Bush, struggling with low approval ratings and wide public discontent with the rising U.S. death toll, also defended his decision to invade Iraq, saying "it wasn't a mistake."]
It may be grossly unconstitutional, but does King Bush care??
No.
Welcome to the police state.
Friday, December 16, 2005
The Music Genome Project
quote[Ever since we started the Music Genome Project, our friends would ask:
Can you help me discover more music that I'll like?
Those questions often evolved into great conversations. Each friend told us their favorite artists and songs, explored the music we suggested, gave us feedback, and we in turn made new suggestions. Everybody started joking that we were now their personal DJs.
We created Pandora so that we can have that same kind of conversation with you.]
This site is awesome! If you're a music lover, give it a try.
Can you help me discover more music that I'll like?
Those questions often evolved into great conversations. Each friend told us their favorite artists and songs, explored the music we suggested, gave us feedback, and we in turn made new suggestions. Everybody started joking that we were now their personal DJs.
We created Pandora so that we can have that same kind of conversation with you.]
This site is awesome! If you're a music lover, give it a try.
Bush Secretly Lifted Some Limits on Spying in U.S. After 9/11, Officials Say
quote[Months after the Sept. 11 attacks, President Bush secretly authorized the National Security Agency to eavesdrop on Americans and others inside the United States to search for evidence of terrorist activity without the court-approved warrants ordinarily required for domestic spying, according to government officials.
Under a presidential order signed in 2002, the intelligence agency has monitored the international telephone calls and international e-mail messages of hundreds, perhaps thousands, of people inside the United States without warrants over the past three years in an effort to track possible "dirty numbers" linked to Al Qaeda, the officials said. The agency, they said, still seeks warrants to monitor entirely domestic communications.]
"We don't torture. We don't spy on Americans. Nothing to see here. Move along..."
Under a presidential order signed in 2002, the intelligence agency has monitored the international telephone calls and international e-mail messages of hundreds, perhaps thousands, of people inside the United States without warrants over the past three years in an effort to track possible "dirty numbers" linked to Al Qaeda, the officials said. The agency, they said, still seeks warrants to monitor entirely domestic communications.]
"We don't torture. We don't spy on Americans. Nothing to see here. Move along..."
Dems Finally Grow A Spine, Open Can Of Whoopass In Senate
quote[The Senate on Friday rejected attempts to reauthorize several provisions of the USA Patriot Act as infringing too much on Americans' privacy and liberty, dealing a huge defeat to the Bush administration and Republican leaders.
In a crucial vote early Friday, the bill's Senate supporters were not able to get the 60 votes needed to overcome a threatened filibuster by Sens. Russ Feingold, D-Wisconsin, and Larry Craig, R-Idaho, and their allies. The final vote was 52-47.]
It's about time...
In a crucial vote early Friday, the bill's Senate supporters were not able to get the 60 votes needed to overcome a threatened filibuster by Sens. Russ Feingold, D-Wisconsin, and Larry Craig, R-Idaho, and their allies. The final vote was 52-47.]
It's about time...
Elections Official: Some Voting Machines Could Be Hacked
quote[Voting machines used in four Central Florida counties might be flawed.
There's new evidence that computer hackers could change election results without anyone knowing about it, WESH 2 News reported.
The supervisor of elections in Tallahassee tested voting machines several times over the last several months, and on Monday, his workers were able to hack into a voting machine and change the outcome. He said that same thing might have happened in Volusia County in 2000.]
And this is news???
There's new evidence that computer hackers could change election results without anyone knowing about it, WESH 2 News reported.
The supervisor of elections in Tallahassee tested voting machines several times over the last several months, and on Monday, his workers were able to hack into a voting machine and change the outcome. He said that same thing might have happened in Volusia County in 2000.]
And this is news???
Thursday, December 15, 2005
32% Favor Bush Impeachment
quote[ December 15, 2005--Thirty-two percent (32%) of Americans believe that President George W. Bush should be impeached and removed from office. Fifty-eight percent (58%) take the opposite view.]
How could 58% be so dumb?
How could 58% be so dumb?
Wednesday, December 14, 2005
MAN DATES GAL ON INTERNET FOR SIX MONTHS -- AND IT TURNS OUT SHE'S HIS MOTHER!
And the most disturbing part of this story:
quote[Daniel admits he and his mother could do little but stammer and stutter around each other for days after their cyberspace exploits came to light. And his father Paul -- Nicole's husband of 27 years -- wasn't too happy when the story hit the news and his beer-drinking buddies made him the butt of their jokes.
"Dad was ticked for a while and he forbid Mom to talk to anybody on the Internet ever again," said embarrassed Daniel.]
quote[Daniel admits he and his mother could do little but stammer and stutter around each other for days after their cyberspace exploits came to light. And his father Paul -- Nicole's husband of 27 years -- wasn't too happy when the story hit the news and his beer-drinking buddies made him the butt of their jokes.
"Dad was ticked for a while and he forbid Mom to talk to anybody on the Internet ever again," said embarrassed Daniel.]
Next stop in New Orleans: Disaster trip for tourists
quote[Visitors to New Orleans who once toured the graceful mansions of its Garden District or learned the history of its Mississippi River plantations have a new attraction: The Hurricane Katrina disaster tour.
Gray Line New Orleans will begin offering a "Hurricane Katrina Tour - America's Worst Catastrophe!" to show the ruin that befell the city when the storm hit on August 29, breaching a faulty system of river levees and flooding 80 percent of its neighborhoods.]
I can't blame the company, and at least some of the money will go for relief.
But one has to wonder what type of person would want to go on the tour.
Gray Line New Orleans will begin offering a "Hurricane Katrina Tour - America's Worst Catastrophe!" to show the ruin that befell the city when the storm hit on August 29, breaching a faulty system of river levees and flooding 80 percent of its neighborhoods.]
I can't blame the company, and at least some of the money will go for relief.
But one has to wonder what type of person would want to go on the tour.
Bush can settle CIA leak riddle, Novak says
quote["I'm confident the president knows who the source is," Novak told a luncheon audience at the John Locke Foundation in Raleigh on Tuesday. "I'd be amazed if he doesn't."
"So I say, 'Don't bug me. Don't bug Bob Woodward. Bug the president as to whether he should reveal who the source is.' "]
Are we about to see a Merry Fitzmas II?
"So I say, 'Don't bug me. Don't bug Bob Woodward. Bug the president as to whether he should reveal who the source is.' "]
Are we about to see a Merry Fitzmas II?
Tuesday, December 13, 2005
Israel readies forces for strike on nuclear Iran
quote[ISRAEL’S armed forces have been ordered by Ariel Sharon, the prime minister, to be ready by the end of March for possible strikes on secret uranium enrichment sites in Iran, military sources have revealed.
The order came after Israeli intelligence warned the government that Iran was operating enrichment facilities, believed to be small and concealed in civilian locations.]
Mushroom cloud anyone?
The order came after Israeli intelligence warned the government that Iran was operating enrichment facilities, believed to be small and concealed in civilian locations.]
Mushroom cloud anyone?
'Daily Show' halts production following suicide
quote[An employee of the Comedy Central program "The Daily Show with Jon Stewart" has committed suicide, leading the network to suspend production of Monday night's episode of the program, a spokesman confirmed.]
I guess this explains last night's repeat...
I guess this explains last night's repeat...
Monday, December 12, 2005
Red Sox Interested In Clemens??
quote["We had an internal discussion," said Sox CEO and president Larry Lucchino, ''and concluded we should make an initial call to let the Hendricks brothers know we were open to discuss Roger's return if he should have interest in the Red Sox in 2006.]
The rumor mill is alive and well this offseason. Sorry for those not interested in baseball...
The rumor mill is alive and well this offseason. Sorry for those not interested in baseball...
Bush Advisor To Reporter: Katrina “Has Fallen So Far Off The Radar Screen, You Can’t Find It”
quote[I’m going to tell you something to amaze you; it amazed me yesterday. The last time the president was in the hurricane region was October 11, two months ago. The president stood in New Orleans and said it was going to be one of the largest reconstruction efforts in the history of the world. You go to the White house home page, there’s Barney camp, there’s Social Security, there’s Renewing Iraq. Where’s renewing New Orleans? A presidential advisor told me that issue has fallen so far off the radar screen, you can’t find it.]
Is this deliberate?? We must not let this get clouded by less serious issues in '06 or even '08!
Is this deliberate?? We must not let this get clouded by less serious issues in '06 or even '08!
Iraq Prison Raid Finds a New Case of Mistreatment
quote[American and Iraqi forces raiding an Iraqi government detention center last Thursday in Baghdad discovered more than 600 prisoners packed into a cramped space, 13 of them mistreated so badly they had to be taken to a hospital, a senior American official said early Monday.]
Great news on the heels of their elections...
Great news on the heels of their elections...
Saturday, December 10, 2005
Let Joe Know
quote[Earlier this week while discussing the war in Iraq, Senator Joseph Lieberman said, "It's time for Democrats who distrust President Bush to acknowledge he'll be commander-in-chief for three more critical years, and that in matters of war we undermine presidential credibility at our nation's peril."
Unfortunately, President Bush has no credibility. His administration misled our nation into the war in Iraq on trumped-up charges of weapons of mass destruction. His "stay the course" strategy has led to over 2,100 American deaths. And no one sees an end in sight.
It is disturbing enough that Senator Lieberman remains one of the president's biggest cheerleaders. But his call for opponents of the president's failed policy to keep quiet is outrageous.
The only way we will end this war is by having an honest debate about how and when we can bring our troops home.
Join me in sending Senator Lieberman an open letter asking him to join the majority of Americans in questioning the Bush administration's Iraq policy.]
I recommend writing a personal note if you wish to recieve a personal response. Also, if you live in CT, make sure you mention it.
Unfortunately, President Bush has no credibility. His administration misled our nation into the war in Iraq on trumped-up charges of weapons of mass destruction. His "stay the course" strategy has led to over 2,100 American deaths. And no one sees an end in sight.
It is disturbing enough that Senator Lieberman remains one of the president's biggest cheerleaders. But his call for opponents of the president's failed policy to keep quiet is outrageous.
The only way we will end this war is by having an honest debate about how and when we can bring our troops home.
Join me in sending Senator Lieberman an open letter asking him to join the majority of Americans in questioning the Bush administration's Iraq policy.]
I recommend writing a personal note if you wish to recieve a personal response. Also, if you live in CT, make sure you mention it.
Friday, December 09, 2005
One Red Paper Clip
Very cool!
I hope everyone has a very good weekend. I'm already sick of snow, and it isn't even winter yet.
I hope everyone has a very good weekend. I'm already sick of snow, and it isn't even winter yet.
The War On Christmas Is Winning; Megachurches Take Christmas Off!
quote[Some of the nation's most prominent megachurches have decided not to hold worship services on the Sunday that coincides with Christmas Day, a move that is generating controversy among evangelical Christians at a time when many conservative groups are battling to "put the Christ back in Christmas."]
This, despite the fact that Christmas even falls on a Sunday this year.
Good thing I'm a liberal, anti-christian, USA-hating, commie-loving, fag-worshiper!!!
This, despite the fact that Christmas even falls on a Sunday this year.
Good thing I'm a liberal, anti-christian, USA-hating, commie-loving, fag-worshiper!!!
Why Would Anyone Search For This???
quote[If anyone reads this after coming here via such a search, please tell us a little bit about yourself. Are you a sexually repressed social conservative? A sado-masochistic liberal? A horny College Republican? Did you seriously think she posed nude? Well, whoever you are, don’t worry, because you’re not alone.]
For my new friend in Texas...
Thursday, December 08, 2005
The Daily Show's Stewart responds to O'Reilly's misleading attack
quote[Summary: Daily Show host Jon Stewart took Bill O'Reilly to task for his misleading use of a year-old Daily Show clip (noted December 6 by Media Matters for America) to demonstrate what O'Reilly claims to be an ongoing "war on Christmas."]
LOL!!
LOL!!
Heckling causes Coulter to cut UConn speech short
quote[Conservative columnist Ann Coulter gave up trying to finish a speech at the University of Connecticut on Wednesday night when boos and jeers from the audience became overwhelming.
Coulter cut off the talk after 15 minutes and instead held a half-hour question-and-answer session.
"I love to engage in repartee with people who are stupider than I am," Coulter told the 2,600 people at Jorgensen Auditorium.]
Stupider? Stupider?? That's not even a fucking word!
Coulter cut off the talk after 15 minutes and instead held a half-hour question-and-answer session.
"I love to engage in repartee with people who are stupider than I am," Coulter told the 2,600 people at Jorgensen Auditorium.]
Stupider? Stupider?? That's not even a fucking word!
Wednesday, December 07, 2005
Weicker may challenge Lieberman
quote["In the absence of any Democrat giving him a challenge, or somebody of another party of substance, I'd have to consider it, but that's the extent of my commitment at this stage," Weicker, 74, said in a phone interview Tuesday. He said he would run as an independent, but has no timetable for making a decision.
Speaking at a Rotary Club luncheon on Monday, Weicker sharply criticized Lieberman and President Bush over the Iraq war.
"I have seen this country propagandized into war," said Weicker, a Republican-turned-independent. "It's now a second wave of propagandizing, with the president taking the stump, joined by persons like Senator Joe Lieberman."]
I think I'd vote for him.
Speaking at a Rotary Club luncheon on Monday, Weicker sharply criticized Lieberman and President Bush over the Iraq war.
"I have seen this country propagandized into war," said Weicker, a Republican-turned-independent. "It's now a second wave of propagandizing, with the president taking the stump, joined by persons like Senator Joe Lieberman."]
I think I'd vote for him.
Fitzgerald Presents New Information to Grand Jury
quote[Special Counsel Patrick J. Fitzgerald appeared this morning to present information to a new grand jury in the CIA leak investigation.
Fitzgerald has been probing for two years what role senior Bush administration officials have played in leaking a CIA operative name to the media in 2003.
Today's appearance was the first time that Fitzgerald has gone back to a grand jury since the Oct. 28 indictment of I. Lewis "Scooter" Libby, Vice President Cheney's former chief of staff.]
Something is cooking, that's for sure.
Fitzgerald has been probing for two years what role senior Bush administration officials have played in leaking a CIA operative name to the media in 2003.
Today's appearance was the first time that Fitzgerald has gone back to a grand jury since the Oct. 28 indictment of I. Lewis "Scooter" Libby, Vice President Cheney's former chief of staff.]
Something is cooking, that's for sure.
Tuesday, December 06, 2005
Lieberman, whom the Bush administration has praised repeatedly for his war stance, defended the president. "It's time for Democrats who distrust Presi
quote[Lieberman, whom the Bush administration has praised repeatedly for his war stance, defended the president. "It's time for Democrats who distrust President Bush to acknowledge he'll be commander-in-chief for three more years," the senator said. "We undermine the president's credibility at our nation's peril."]
Why doesn't he just admit that he's really a righty???
Why doesn't he just admit that he's really a righty???
Baby Bush Toys
quote[Sure, we all want what's best for our kids, but let's face the truth: not every child can grow up to be Einstein! At the Baby Bush Toy Company, we offer an exciting range of products for the resoundingly average child.]Ha!
Monday, December 05, 2005
Pilot Reports 'Missile' Fired at Jetliner Near LAX
quote[FBI agents and Homeland Security officials spent the weekend investigating the report of a possible missile fired at an American Airlines plane taking off from Los Angeles International Airport.
Sources tell ABC News the pilot of American Airlines Flight 621, en route to Chicago, radioed air traffic controllers after takeoff from LAX. He told them a missile had been fired at the aircraft and missed.
The plane was over water when the pilot said he saw a smoke trail pass by the cockpit.
FBI agents believe it was a flare or a bottle rocket, but say they may never know if that's what it actually was.]
They're taking a pretty calm approach to this, aren't they?
Sources tell ABC News the pilot of American Airlines Flight 621, en route to Chicago, radioed air traffic controllers after takeoff from LAX. He told them a missile had been fired at the aircraft and missed.
The plane was over water when the pilot said he saw a smoke trail pass by the cockpit.
FBI agents believe it was a flare or a bottle rocket, but say they may never know if that's what it actually was.]
They're taking a pretty calm approach to this, aren't they?
Is Bush Courting Lieberman?
quote[Rumors that Sen. Joe Lieberman (D-CT) will replace Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld resurfaced again on Face the Nation:
Bob Schieffer: "Last night -- over this weekend, I had four different people tell me that the White House is thinking if the secretary of Defense goes over the next year -- and a lot of people think that he will, that the president is thinking of nominating Joe Lieberman to be secretary of Defense."
If it happened, Connecticut Gov. Jodi Rell (R) would likely appoint a Republican to fill Lieberman's seat. Kos explains the ramifications for Democrats.
As Raw Story notes, Sen. John Kerry (D-MA) called for Rumsfeld's dismissal today.]
Well, for one thing, we'd finally get rid of Lieberman. But, surely Rell would appoint a repug to replace him.
I have mixed feelings about this.
Bob Schieffer: "Last night -- over this weekend, I had four different people tell me that the White House is thinking if the secretary of Defense goes over the next year -- and a lot of people think that he will, that the president is thinking of nominating Joe Lieberman to be secretary of Defense."
If it happened, Connecticut Gov. Jodi Rell (R) would likely appoint a Republican to fill Lieberman's seat. Kos explains the ramifications for Democrats.
As Raw Story notes, Sen. John Kerry (D-MA) called for Rumsfeld's dismissal today.]
Well, for one thing, we'd finally get rid of Lieberman. But, surely Rell would appoint a repug to replace him.
I have mixed feelings about this.
Angry BellSouth Withdrew Donation, New Orleans Says
quote[Hours after New Orleans officials announced Tuesday that they would deploy a city-owned, wireless Internet network in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, regional phone giant BellSouth Corp. withdrew an offer to donate one of its damaged buildings that would have housed new police headquarters, city officials said yesterday.]
Nice. That's classy.
Nice. That's classy.
Friday, December 02, 2005
Bush Called for Jury Duty in Texas, Refuses To Show
quote["We have since called the court to inform them that the president has other commitments on Monday and that he would like to reschedule his jury duty," he said. "We will be working with the court to reschedule his jury duty. ... Jury duty is an important civic responsibility and it's important that people do serve."
Although Bush won't serve this time, his Democratic rival in the 2004 election served on a Massachusetts jury last month. Kerry not only served, but was elected foreman of the Suffolk Superior Court jury, which rejected a claim by two men who sued the city of Boston for injuries suffered in a car accident involving a school principal.]
Just another instance where Kerry served and Bush weasled away. How long before the swift-boat jurors for truth try to distort this reality?
Although Bush won't serve this time, his Democratic rival in the 2004 election served on a Massachusetts jury last month. Kerry not only served, but was elected foreman of the Suffolk Superior Court jury, which rejected a claim by two men who sued the city of Boston for injuries suffered in a car accident involving a school principal.]
Just another instance where Kerry served and Bush weasled away. How long before the swift-boat jurors for truth try to distort this reality?
Skyscraper Causes Earthquakes
quote[Taipei 101 is a building with a lot to boast about. Standing 508 metres (1,667ft) high, it is the world's tallest. And at 700,000 tonnes, it must be among the heaviest.
But the sheer size of the Taiwan skyscraper has raised unexpected concerns that may have far-reaching implications for the construction of other buildings and man-made megastructures. Taipei 101 is thought to have triggered two recent earthquakes because of the stress that it exerts on the ground beneath it.]
This is pretty wild. It really makes you think about the implications that man can have on our world.
But the sheer size of the Taiwan skyscraper has raised unexpected concerns that may have far-reaching implications for the construction of other buildings and man-made megastructures. Taipei 101 is thought to have triggered two recent earthquakes because of the stress that it exerts on the ground beneath it.]
This is pretty wild. It really makes you think about the implications that man can have on our world.
Thursday, December 01, 2005
Failing ocean current raises fears of mini ice age
quote[The ocean current that gives western Europe its relatively balmy climate is stuttering, raising fears that it might fail entirely and plunge the continent into a mini ice age.
The dramatic finding comes from a study of ocean circulation in the North Atlantic, which found a 30% reduction in the warm currents that carry water north from the Gulf Stream.]
Well, this can't be good.
The dramatic finding comes from a study of ocean circulation in the North Atlantic, which found a 30% reduction in the warm currents that carry water north from the Gulf Stream.]
Well, this can't be good.
Wednesday, November 30, 2005
Right Wing Nuts At Newsmax Falsely Claim McCain Supports Torture
quote[Sen. John McCain is leading the charge against so-called “torture” techniques allegedly used by U.S. interrogators, insisting that practices like sleep deprivation and withholding medical attention are not only brutal – they simply don’t work to persuade terrorist suspects to give accurate information.
Nearly forty years ago, however – when McCain was held captive in a North Vietnamese prison camp – some of the same techniques were used on him. And – as McCain has publicly admitted at least twice – the torture worked!}
What a bunch of lying idiots!
Nearly forty years ago, however – when McCain was held captive in a North Vietnamese prison camp – some of the same techniques were used on him. And – as McCain has publicly admitted at least twice – the torture worked!}
What a bunch of lying idiots!
Bill O'Relliy's Head Explodes
Well, not really...But he does go nuts on his radio show. Enjoy the audio clip!
Rumsfeld Is An Asshole Moron
quote["I think that you can have a legitimate insurgency in a country that has popular support and has a cohesiveness and has a legitimate gripe," he said. "These people don't have a legitimate gripe." Still, he acknowledged that his point may not be supported by the standard definition of `insurgent.' He promised to look it up.
Webster's New World College Dictionary defines the term "insurgent" as "rising up against established authority."
Even Gen. Peter Pace, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, who stood beside Rumsfeld at the news conference, found it impossible to describe the fighting in Iraq without twice using the term `insurgent.']
Even his Generals won't follow his pathetic parsing of words.
Webster's New World College Dictionary defines the term "insurgent" as "rising up against established authority."
Even Gen. Peter Pace, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, who stood beside Rumsfeld at the news conference, found it impossible to describe the fighting in Iraq without twice using the term `insurgent.']
Even his Generals won't follow his pathetic parsing of words.
600 Pounds Of Plutonium Missing From Government Lab
quote[Enough plutonium to make dozens of nuclear bombs hasn't been accounted for at the UC-run Los Alamos National Laboratory in New Mexico and may be missing, an activist group says in a new report.
There is no evidence that the weapons-grade plutonium has been stolen or diverted for illegal purposes, the Institute for Energy and Environmental Research said. However, the amount of unaccounted-for plutonium -- more than 600 pounds, and possibly several times that -- is so great that it raises "a vast security issue," the group said in a report to be made public today.]
And we expect the government to find WMD's that were supposedly intentionally hidden??
Maybe we need to invade Los Alamos...
There is no evidence that the weapons-grade plutonium has been stolen or diverted for illegal purposes, the Institute for Energy and Environmental Research said. However, the amount of unaccounted-for plutonium -- more than 600 pounds, and possibly several times that -- is so great that it raises "a vast security issue," the group said in a report to be made public today.]
And we expect the government to find WMD's that were supposedly intentionally hidden??
Maybe we need to invade Los Alamos...
Tuesday, November 29, 2005
Republicans now saying WMD were found in Iraq
quote[And we wonder why 70% of Republicans think Bush is a good president? Because they're gullible idiots who lie, and are willing to be lied to. And if you're a Republican reading this, and it pisses you off, good. Do something about it. You sit back and you let your own far-right party leaders and party organizations lie to you and lie to the public, and you do nothing to correct those lies or hold those leaders accountable.
Do something about it, or stop complaining when we rightfully point out that the GOP is a party of liars, idiots, and lemmings.
To wit: The latest email I just received from Newsmax, a far-right GOP-sucking online news-zine. The subject line of the email: WMDs Found in Iraq!
Uh huh.
According to the Newsmax email (apparently it's on behalf of Human Events, another Republican rag, and they're pushing some new book that exposes the media's bias - uh huh), we learn that we've discovered in Iraq:
1.77 metric tons of enriched uranium
1,500 gallons of chemical weapons agents
Chemical warheads containing cyclosarin (a nerve agent five times more deadly than sarin gas)
Over 1,000 radioactive materials in powdered form meant for dispersal over populated areas
This is only a PARTIAL LIST of the horrific weapons verified to have been recovered in Iraq to date. Yet, Americans overwhelmingly believe U.S. and coalition forces found NO weapons of mass destruction.
The question is... WHY do they believe this lie?]
I shake my head and cry at the insanity in this country.
Monday, November 28, 2005
Big Brother Is Here...
quote[One morning in late September 2005, Deb was riding the public bus to work. She was minding her own business, reading a book and planning for work, when a security guard got on this public bus and demanded that every passenger show their ID. Deb, having done nothing wrong, declined. The guard called in federal cops, and she was arrested and charged with federal criminal misdemeanors after refusing to show ID on demand.]
Nazi anyone?
Nazi anyone?
'Trophy' video exposes private security contractors shooting up Iraqi drivers
quote[A "trophy" video appearing to show security guards in Baghdad randomly shooting Iraqi civilians has sparked two investigations after it was posted on the internet, the Sunday Telegraph can reveal.
The video has sparked concern that private security companies, which are not subject to any form of regulation either in Britain or in Iraq, could be responsible for the deaths of hundreds of innocent Iraqis.]
And, we wonder why there is an insurgency?
The video has sparked concern that private security companies, which are not subject to any form of regulation either in Britain or in Iraq, could be responsible for the deaths of hundreds of innocent Iraqis.]
And, we wonder why there is an insurgency?
Republican Congressman Admits Taking Bribes, Resigns
quote[Rep. Randy "Duke" Cunningham pleaded guilty Monday to conspiracy and tax charges and tearfully resigned from office, admitting he took $2.4 million in bribes to steer defense contracts to co-conspirators.
ADVERTISEMENT
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Cunningham, 63, entered pleas in U.S. District Court to charges of conspiracy to commit bribery, mail fraud and wire fraud, and tax evasion for underreporting his income in 2004.]
Happy Holidays, everyone. The Repugs are dropping like flies.
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Cunningham, 63, entered pleas in U.S. District Court to charges of conspiracy to commit bribery, mail fraud and wire fraud, and tax evasion for underreporting his income in 2004.]
Happy Holidays, everyone. The Repugs are dropping like flies.
Wednesday, November 23, 2005
Scott McClellan's Nov. 8 Briefing
quote[Q I'd like you to clear up, once and for all, the ambiguity about torture. Can we get a straight answer? The President says we don't do torture, but Cheney --
MR. McCLELLAN: That's about as straight as it can be.
Q Yes, but Cheney has gone to the Senate and asked for an exemption on --
MR. McCLELLAN: No, he has not. Are you claiming he's asked for an exemption on torture? No, that's --
Q He did not ask for that?
MR. McCLELLAN: -- that is inaccurate.
Q Are you denying everything that came from the Hill, in terms of torture?
MR. McCLELLAN: No, you're mischaracterizing things. And I'm not going to get into discussions we have --
Q Can you give me a straight answer for once?
MR. McCLELLAN: Let me give it to you, just like the President has. We do not torture. He does not condone torture and he would never --
Q I'm asking about exemptions.
MR. McCLELLAN: Let me respond. And he would never authorize the use of torture. We have an obligation to do all that we can to protect the American people. We are engaged --
Q That's not the answer I'm asking for --
MR. McCLELLAN: It is an answer -- because the American people want to know that we are doing all within our power to prevent terrorist attacks from happening. There are people in this world who want to spread a hateful ideology that is based on killing innocent men, women and children. We saw what they can do on September 11th --
Q He didn't ask for an exemption --
MR. McCLELLAN: -- and we are going to --
Q -- answer that one question. I'm asking, is the administration asking for an exemption?
MR. McCLELLAN: I am answering your question. The President has made it very clear that we are going to do --
Q You're not answering -- yes or no?
MR. McCLELLAN: No, you don't want the American people to hear what the facts are, Helen, and I'm going to tell them the facts.
Q -- the American people every day. I'm asking you, yes or no, did we ask for an exemption?
MR. McCLELLAN: And let me respond. You've had your opportunity to ask the question. Now I'm going to respond to it.
Q If you could answer in a straight way.
MR. McCLELLAN: And I'm going to answer it, just like the President -- I just did, and the President has answered it numerous times.
Q -- yes or no --
MR. McCLELLAN: Our most important responsibility is to protect the American people. We are engaged in a global war against Islamic radicals who are intent on spreading a hateful ideology, and intent on killing innocent men, women and children.
Q Did we ask for an exemption?
MR. McCLELLAN: We are going to do what is necessary to protect the American people.
Q Is that the answer?
MR. McCLELLAN: We are also going to do so in a way that adheres to our laws and to our values. We have made that very clear. The President directed everybody within this government that we do not engage in torture. We will not torture. He made that very clear.
Q Are you denying we asked for an exemption?
MR. McCLELLAN: Helen, we will continue to work with the Congress on the issue that you brought up. The way you characterize it, that we're asking for exemption from torture, is just flat-out false, because there are laws that are on the books that prohibit the use of torture. And we adhere to those laws.
Q We did ask for an exemption; is that right? I mean, be simple -- this is a very simple question.
MR. McCLELLAN: I just answered your question. The President answered it last week.]
Why does he even bother?
Bush Wanted To Bomb Al-Jazeera In Qatar To Squash Falluja Reporting
quote[The publication reported on the contents of a five page memo, stamped Top Secret, alleging that President Bush had threatened to undertake military action against al-Jazeera, a TV station located in the country of Qatar. While al-Jazeera is seen by some in the Bush administration to be largely anti-West, Qatar is an American ally.
According to sources familiar with the case, it was the recent attack on Fallujah that had Bush concerned about what al-Jazeera might report.]
Good God, this man is insane!
According to sources familiar with the case, it was the recent attack on Fallujah that had Bush concerned about what al-Jazeera might report.]
Good God, this man is insane!
Tuesday, November 22, 2005
Not Only Is She The Wicked Witch Of The West, She's A Liar Too
quote[Three days after Rep. Jean Schmidt was booed off the House floor for saying that "cowards cut and run, Marines never do," the Ohioan she quoted disputed the comments.
Danny Bubp, a freshman state representative who is a colonel in the Marine Corps Reserve, told The Enquirer that he never mentioned Rep. John Murtha, D-Pa., by name when talking with Schmidt, and he would never call a fellow Marine a coward.
"The unfortunate thing about all of that is that her choice of words on the floor of the House - I don't know, she's a freshman, she had one minute.]
Two words: Lying Bitch.
Danny Bubp, a freshman state representative who is a colonel in the Marine Corps Reserve, told The Enquirer that he never mentioned Rep. John Murtha, D-Pa., by name when talking with Schmidt, and he would never call a fellow Marine a coward.
"The unfortunate thing about all of that is that her choice of words on the floor of the House - I don't know, she's a freshman, she had one minute.]
Two words: Lying Bitch.
Iraqi Leaders Urge a Timetable for Eventual Troop Withdrawal
quote[Iraqi leaders, meeting at a reconciliation conference in Cairo, urged an end to violence in the country and demanded a timetable for the withdrawal of coalition troops from Iraq.
In a final statement, read by Arab League chief Amre Moussa, host of the three-day summit, they called for ``the withdrawal of foreign troops according to a timetable, through putting in place an immediate national program to rebuild the armed forces.'' No date was specified.]
Does this make them unpatriotic also?
In a final statement, read by Arab League chief Amre Moussa, host of the three-day summit, they called for ``the withdrawal of foreign troops according to a timetable, through putting in place an immediate national program to rebuild the armed forces.'' No date was specified.]
Does this make them unpatriotic also?
Monday, November 21, 2005
Pentagon Flip-Flop: White Phosphorous a Chemical Weapon When Politically Convenient
quote[But the distinction is a minor one, and arguably political in nature. A formerly classified 1995 Pentagon intelligence document titled “Possible Use of Phosphorous Chemical” describes the use of white phosphorus by Saddam Hussein on Kurdish fighters:
"IRAQ HAS POSSIBLY EMPLOYED PHOSPHOROUS CHEMICAL WEAPONS AGAINST THE KURDISH POPULATION IN AREAS ALONG THE IRAQI-TURKISH-IRANIAN BORDERS. […]
IN LATE FEBRUARY 1991, FOLLOWING THE COALITION FORCES’ OVERWHELMING VICTORY OVER IRAQ, KURDISH REBELS STEPPED UP THEIR STRUGGLE AGAINST IRAQI FORCES IN NORTHERN IRAQ. DURING THE BRUTAL CRACKDOWN THAT FOLLOWED THE KURDISH UPRISING, IRAQI FORCES LOYAL TO PRESIDENT SADDAM ((HUSSEIN)) MAY HAVE POSSIBLY USED WHITE PHOSPHOROUS (WP) CHEMICAL WEAPONS AGAINST KURDISH REBELS AND THE POPULACE IN ERBIL (GEOCOORD:3412N/04401E) (VICINITY OF IRANIAN BORDER) AND DOHUK (GEOCOORD:3652N/04301E) (VICINITY OF IRAQI BORDER) PROVINCES, IRAQ."]
I think my comments are summed up in the title.
Bush Discusses Murtha and Says Progress in Iraq is 'Amazing'
quote[At a press conference with reporters along for his trip to China, President Bush found several questions relating to the current debate back in the States over the Iraq pullout plan pushed by Rep. John Murtha (D-Pa.).
Among other things, he said "the progress in Iraq is amazing" and rejected Murtha's complaint about Vice President Cheney, who received five deferments during the Vietnam war, questioning the "backbone" of Iraq war critics who had served in battle. "I don't think the Vice President's service is relevant in this debate," Bush said.]
Yeah, amazingly bad...
Smoker Tried To Open Plane Door
quote[A French woman has admitted attempting to open an aeroplane door mid-flight so that she could smoke a cigarette.]
WTF??
WTF??
Sunday, November 20, 2005
Door thwarts quick exit for Bush
quote[President George W Bush tried to make a quick exit from a news conference in Beijing on Sunday - only to find himself thwarted by locked doors.]This guy really has trouble with exit strategies.
Kind of reminds me of this:
Friday, November 18, 2005
Woman Ordered to Spend Night in Woods for Abandoning Kittens
I sure as hell hope it was a damned cold night.
Thursday, November 17, 2005
Bush is cracking vol. MCMXVI
quote[any have speculated on Bush's mental health. Is he a dry drunk, has he returned to drinking (how many adults do you know who have fallen off a bicycle and choked on a pretzel?), is he just plain old cracking up?It's fun to think about I guess.
What's slightly different this time is the origin of the latest reports. The right wing Moonie-owned Washington Times, a fairly reliable pro-administration paper created during the Reagan presidency as a right wing counter to the Washington Post.]
I believe it.
Congress moves to speed up executions
quote[Republicans in the U.S. Congress said on Wednesday they were moving ahead with legislation that would speed up executions in the United States by limiting the ability of those sentenced to death to appeal to federal courts.
Pennsylvania Sen. Arlen Specter said he intended to bring the so-called "Streamlined Procedures Act of 2005" to a vote on Thursday in the Judiciary Committee which he chairs.]
Where's the outrage from their Christian fundamentalist base? Oh wait, they're hypocrites.
Pennsylvania Sen. Arlen Specter said he intended to bring the so-called "Streamlined Procedures Act of 2005" to a vote on Thursday in the Judiciary Committee which he chairs.]
Where's the outrage from their Christian fundamentalist base? Oh wait, they're hypocrites.
CIA has concluded Castro has Parkinson's
quote[The CIA recently concluded that Cuban leader Fidel Castro suffers from Parkinson's disease and has warned U.S. policymakers to be ready for trouble if the 79-year-old ruler's health erodes over the next few years.
If true, the CIA's assessment of the nonfatal but debilitating condition would mean Castro may be entering a period where doctors say the symptoms grow more evident, medicines are less effective and mental functions start to deteriorate.]
If true, the CIA's assessment of the nonfatal but debilitating condition would mean Castro may be entering a period where doctors say the symptoms grow more evident, medicines are less effective and mental functions start to deteriorate.]
Tuesday, November 15, 2005
A WARMONGER EXPLAINS WAR TO A PEACENIK
By Anonymous
PeaceNik: Why did you say we are we invading Iraq?
WarMonger: We are invading Iraq because it is in violation of security council resolution 1441. A country cannot be allowed to violate security council resolutions.
PN: But I thought many of our allies, including Israel, were in violation of more security council resolutions than Iraq.
WM: It's not just about UN resolutions. The main point is that Iraq could have weapons of mass destruction, and the first sign of a smoking gun could well be a mushroom cloud over NY.
PN: Mushroom cloud? But I thought the weapons inspectors said Iraq had no nuclear weapons.
WM: Yes, but biological and chemical weapons are the issue.
PN: But I thought Iraq did not have any long range missiles for attacking us or our allies with such weapons.
WM: The risk is not Iraq directly attacking us, but rather terrorists networks that Iraq could sell the weapons to.
PN: But coundn't virtually any country sell chemical or biological materials? We sold quite a bit to Iraq in the eighties ourselves, didn't we?
WM: That's ancient history. Look, Saddam Hussein is an evil man that has an undeniable track record of repressing his own people since the early eighties. He gasses his enemies. Everyone agrees that he is a power-hungry lunatic murderer.
PN: We sold chemical and biological materials to a power-hungry lunatic murderer?
WM: The issue is not what we sold, but rather what Saddam did. He is the one that launched a pre-emptive first strike on Kuwait.
PN: A pre-emptive first strike does sound bad. But didn't our ambassador to Iraq, April Gillespie, know about and green-light the invasion of Kuwait?
WM: Let's deal with the present, shall we? As of today, Iraq could sell its biological and chemical weapons to Al Quaida. Osama BinLaden himself released an audio tape calling on Iraqis to suicide-attack us, proving a partnership between the two.
PN: Osama Bin Laden? Wasn't the point of invading Afghanistan to kill him?
WM: Actually, it's not 100% certain that it's really Osama Bin Laden on the tapes. But the lesson from the tape is the same: there could easily be a partnership between al-Qaida and Saddam Hussein unless we act.
PN: Is this the same audio tape where Osama Bin Laden labels Saddam a secular infidel?
WM: You're missing the point by just focusing on the tape. Powell presented a strong case against Iraq.
PN: He did?
WM: Yes, he showed satellite pictures of an Al Quaeda poison factory in Iraq.
PN: But didn't that turn out to be a harmless shack in the part of Iraq controlled by the Kurdish opposition?
WM: And a British intelligence report...
PN: Didn't that turn out to be copied from an out-of-date graduate student paper?
WM: And reports of mobile weapons labs...
PN: Weren't those just artistic renderings?
WM: And reports of Iraqis scuttling and hiding evidence from inspectors...
PN: Wasn't that evidence contradicted by the chief weapons inspector, Hans Blix?
WM: Yes, but there is plenty of other hard evidence that cannot be revealed because it would compromise our security.
PN: So there is no publicly available evidence of weapons of mass destruction in Iraq?
WM: The inspectors are not detectives, it's not their JOB to find evidence. You're missing the point.
PN: So what is the point?
WM: The main point is that we are invading Iraq because resolution 1441 threatened "severe consequences." If we do not act, the security council will become an irrelevant debating society.
PN: So the main point is to uphold the rulings of the security council?
WM: Absolutely. ...unless it rules against us.
PN: And what if it does rule against us?
WM: In that case, we must lead a coalition of the willing to invade Iraq.
PN: Coalition of the willing? Who's that?
WM: Britain, Turkey, Bulgaria, Spain, and Italy, for starters.
PN: I thought Turkey refused to help us unless we gave them tens of billions of dollars.
WM: Nevertheless, they may now be willing.
PN: I thought public opinion in all those countries was against war.
WM: Current public opinion is irrelevant. The majority expresses its will by electing leaders to make decisions.
PN: So it's the decisions of leaders elected by the majority that is important?
WM: Yes.
PN: But George Bush wasn't elected by voters. He was selected by the U.S. Supreme C...-
WM: I mean, we must support the decisions of our leaders, however they were elected, because they are acting in our best interest. This is about being a patriot. That's the bottom line.
PN: So if we do not support the decisions of the president, we are not patriotic?
WM: I never said that.
PN: So what are you saying? Why are we invading Iraq?
WM: As I said, because there is a chance that they have weapons of mass destruction that threaten us and our allies.
PN: But the inspectors have not been able to find any such weapons.
WM: Iraq is obviously hiding them.
PN: You know this? How?
WM: Because we know they had the weapons ten years ago, and they are still unaccounted for.
PN: The weapons we sold them, you mean?
WM: Precisely.
PN: But I thought those biological and chemical weapons would degrade to an unusable state over ten years.
WM: But there is a chance that some have not degraded.
PN: So as long as there is even a small chance that such weapons exist, we must invade?
WM: Exactly.
PN: But North Korea actually has large amounts of usable chemical, biological, AND nuclear weapons, AND long range missiles that can reach the west coast AND it has expelled nuclear weapons inspectors, AND threatened to turn America into a sea of fire.
WM: That's a diplomatic issue.
PN: So why are we invading Iraq instead of using diplomacy?
WM: Aren't you listening? We are invading Iraq because we cannot allow the inspections to drag on indefinitely. Iraq has been delaying, deceiving, and denying for over ten years, and inspections cost us tens of millions.
PN: But I thought war would cost us tens of billions.
WM: Yes, but this is not about money. This is about security.
PN: But wouldn't a pre-emptive war against Iraq ignite radical Muslim sentiments against us, and decrease our security?
WM: Possibly, but we must not allow the terrorists to change the way we live. Once we do that, the terrorists have already won.
PN: So what is the purpose of the Department of Homeland Security, color-coded terror alerts, and the Patriot Act? Don't these change the way we live?
WM: I thought you had questions about Iraq.
PN: I do. Why are we invading Iraq?
WM: For the last time, we are invading Iraq because the world has called on Saddam Hussein to disarm, and he has failed to do so. He must now face the consequences.
PN: So, likewise, if the world called on us to do something, such as find a peaceful solution, we would have an obligation to listen?
WM: By "world", I meant the United Nations.
PN: So, we have an obligation to listen to the United Nations?
WM: By "United Nations" I meant the Security Council.
PN: So, we have an obligation to listen to the Security Council?
WM: I meant the majority of the Security Council.
PN: So, we have an obligation to listen to the majority of the Security Council?
WM: Well... there could be an unreasonable veto.
PN: In which case?
WM: In which case, we have an obligation to ignore the veto.
PN: And if the majority of the Security Council does not support us at all?
WM: Then we have an obligation to ignore the Security Council.
PN: That makes no sense.
WM: If you love Iraq so much, you should move there. Or maybe France, with all the other cheese-eating surrender monkeys. It's time to boycott their wine and cheese, no doubt about that.
PN: I give up!
Senate Republicans Pushing for a Plan on Ending the War in Iraq
quote[In a sign of increasing unease among Congressional Republicans over the war in Iraq, the Senate is to consider on Tuesday a Republican proposal that calls for Iraqi forces to take the lead next year in securing the nation and for the Bush administration to lay out its strategy for ending the war.
The Senate is also scheduled to vote Tuesday on a compromise, announced Monday night, that would allow terror detainees some access to federal courts. The Senate had voted last week to prohibit those being held from challenging their detentions in federal court, despite a Supreme Court ruling to the contrary.]
Are the pimple-sacked pillow-wipes finally getting it??
(The thumbnail is the Chimp's most likely response).
Sticky-Holed Twatface To Name Names
quote[Bill: I'm glad the smear sites made a big deal out of it. Now we can all know who was with the anti-military internet crowd. We'll post the names of all who support the smear merchants on billoreilly.com. So check with us.]LOL! It'll be interesting to see what this hatemonger comes up with.
Monday, November 14, 2005
Saddam trial defense lawyer flees Iraq
quote[A lawyer representing two of Saddam Hussein's co-defendants has fledIraq and is seeking asylum in Qatar following an attempt on his life, according to a letter he has written to the leader of the Gulf state.
Thamer Hamoud al-Khuzaie, who represents Taha Yassin Ramadan and Barzan Ibrahim al-Tikriti, both of whom are being tried along with Saddam for crimes against humanity, said in the letter that his life was under constant threat.]
This is why the trial should be in another country in an international court.
Twins Face Double Trouble in Judge Scam
quote[A pair of twins who tried to dupe a judge in a larceny case have doubled the trouble they now face. Yamahile Ortiz pleaded guilty to using a stolen credit card and was sentenced by New Britain Superior Court Judge Patrick J. Clifford to probation.ADVERTISEMENT
Soon after, the public defender came before Clifford with both Yamahile and her twin sister Yaricza, both 18.
Yamahile had a simple explanation why her sister stood in for her. "I had a final today," she said.]
What the hell were they thinking??
RNC Chair Ken Mehlman, now with twice the lying power!
quote[I know that some of my more cautious readers will blanch at my use of the "L" word. But when so many falsehoods and misleading statements are rolled atop each other, there's really no other description that fairly categorizes what the man is doing. As for why he's doing so, it's not just that he has to as head of the RNC. He was part of the deception and perfidy to the constitution. So like the president and his advisors, Mehlman's dishonesty today is just self-protection.]These neonuts can't help themselves when it comes to lying.
The Right Way In Iraq
quote[I was wrong.
Almost three years ago we went into Iraq to remove what we were told -- and what many of us believed and argued -- was a threat to America. But in fact we now know that Iraq did not have weapons of mass destruction when our forces invaded Iraq in 2003. The intelligence was deeply flawed and, in some cases, manipulated to fit a political agenda.
It was a mistake to vote for this war in 2002. I take responsibility for that mistake. It has been hard to say these words because those who didn't make a mistake -- the men and women of our armed forces and their families -- have performed heroically and paid a dear price.
The world desperately needs moral leadership from America, and the foundation for moral leadership is telling the truth.]
Excellent commentary by John Edwards. Now, why can't a single Bushie say something similar?
Saturday, November 12, 2005
WTF?????
quote[A 33-year-old Grafton woman was fighting for her life Thursday night after she drank concentrated drain cleaner given to her by a man who then videotaped her violent vomiting for his sexual gratification, Milwaukee police said.]
I am at a loss for words...
I am at a loss for words...
As If We Really Needed Another Reason To Hate Bill O'Reilly
quote[Supervisor Chris Daly is firing back at Fox News commentator Bill O'Reilly for comments he made on his radio show Wednesday that encouraged al-Qaida to "blow up" Coit Tower...Daly responded on the KRON 4 Morning News, "Coit Tower's a monument to San Francisco's firefighters. They put out the fires in San Francisco after the great quake. American heroes -- they were there on Sept. 11 and now you want al-Qaida to blow up Coit Tower? Give us a break. You are out of line."]
Wednesday, November 09, 2005
Bush Borrowed More Than All Previous Presidents Combined
quote[President Bush and the current administration have borrowed more money from foreign governments and banks than the previous 42 presidents combined, a group of conservative to moderate Democrats said Friday.
Blue Dog Coalition, which describes itself as a group "focused on fiscal responsibility," called the administration's borrowing practices "astounding."
According to the Treasury Department, from 1776-2000, the first 224 years of U.S. history, 42 U.S. presidents borrowed a combined $1.01 trillion from foreign governments and financial institutions, but in the past four years alone, the Bush administration borrowed $1.05 trillion.]
Ahh, you've got to love fiscal conservatism at its finest!!!
Blue Dog Coalition, which describes itself as a group "focused on fiscal responsibility," called the administration's borrowing practices "astounding."
According to the Treasury Department, from 1776-2000, the first 224 years of U.S. history, 42 U.S. presidents borrowed a combined $1.01 trillion from foreign governments and financial institutions, but in the past four years alone, the Bush administration borrowed $1.05 trillion.]
Ahh, you've got to love fiscal conservatism at its finest!!!
U.S. Army publication confirms United States used incendiary weapon in Falluja
quote[The March edition of Field Artillery magazine, a U.S. Army publication, reveals that the U.S. military did in fact use the incendiary weapon white phosphorous in Fallujah, Iraq, a Daily Kos diarist has found.
"WP [i.e., white phosphorus rounds] proved to be an effective and versatile munition," the article's author wrote. "We used it for screening missions at two breeches and, later in the fight, as a potent psychological weapon against the insurgents in trench lines and spider holes when we could not get effects on them with HE. We fired 'shake and bake' missions at the insurgents, using WP to flush them out and HE to take them out."]
If the story isn't disgusting enough for you, see the video here.
"WP [i.e., white phosphorus rounds] proved to be an effective and versatile munition," the article's author wrote. "We used it for screening missions at two breeches and, later in the fight, as a potent psychological weapon against the insurgents in trench lines and spider holes when we could not get effects on them with HE. We fired 'shake and bake' missions at the insurgents, using WP to flush them out and HE to take them out."]
If the story isn't disgusting enough for you, see the video here.
Tuesday, November 08, 2005
Sophistication? Manners?
Someone suggested that some radio hosts (like Rhandi Rhodes and Mike Malloy) are too abrasive to ever be taken seriously. In fact, it was stated that, "despite the fact Limbaugh is a shill for the Repubs, he at least mocks liberals with an air of sophistication, especially when compared to Rhodes and Malloy."
Here was my response:
Sure, manners and sophistication:
Limbaugh has called abortion rights activists "feminazis", told an African-American caller to "take that bone out of your nose," referred to prisoner abuse at Abu Ghraib as "blow[ing] some steam off, " and declared that "what's good for Al Qaeda is good for the Democratic Party."
Limbaugh asserted that Cindy Sheehan, the mother of a soldier killed in Iraq who staged an anti-war protest outside President Bush's ranch in Texas, "is just Bill Burkett. Her story is nothing more than forged documents."
Limbaugh has also spread numerous rumors and conspiracy theories about the Clinton family, alleging that Hillary Rodham Clinton was involved in the 1993 suicide of deputy White House counsel Vincent Foster and peddling gay-baiting sexual innuendo about Clinton.
Rush Limbaugh has stated, "The more the left talks about Libby's alleged perjury, the more you have to ask did Joseph Wilson commit treason."
Limbaugh has lied about democrats. For example, he has said, "Clinton was offered [Osama] bin Laden two or three times, turned him down. Turned down Sudan. Sudan offered it. So Clinton wasn't serious about it [terrorism]." A total fabrication.
He attacked democrats before the 2004 convention. Some quotes:
"[T]he Democrats have found their keynote speaker for their convention: Saddam Hussein."
"It makes you wonder who hates Bush more, Saddam or the Democrats."
"let me ask you liberals out there: Did that image of Saddam in a sport coat and an open collar just melt your heart?"
"We killed his [Saddam's] sons. We took his country. We put him in jail. He is still calmer and more rational than Howard Dean after he lost Iowa. He's calmer and more rational than Gore after he lost his mind. He's calmer and more rational than George Soros is."
Sopistication? Manners?
I think not.
(Thanks to MediaMatters for the quotes!!!)
Here was my response:
Sure, manners and sophistication:
Limbaugh has called abortion rights activists "feminazis", told an African-American caller to "take that bone out of your nose," referred to prisoner abuse at Abu Ghraib as "blow[ing] some steam off, " and declared that "what's good for Al Qaeda is good for the Democratic Party."
Limbaugh asserted that Cindy Sheehan, the mother of a soldier killed in Iraq who staged an anti-war protest outside President Bush's ranch in Texas, "is just Bill Burkett. Her story is nothing more than forged documents."
Limbaugh has also spread numerous rumors and conspiracy theories about the Clinton family, alleging that Hillary Rodham Clinton was involved in the 1993 suicide of deputy White House counsel Vincent Foster and peddling gay-baiting sexual innuendo about Clinton.
Rush Limbaugh has stated, "The more the left talks about Libby's alleged perjury, the more you have to ask did Joseph Wilson commit treason."
Limbaugh has lied about democrats. For example, he has said, "Clinton was offered [Osama] bin Laden two or three times, turned him down. Turned down Sudan. Sudan offered it. So Clinton wasn't serious about it [terrorism]." A total fabrication.
He attacked democrats before the 2004 convention. Some quotes:
"[T]he Democrats have found their keynote speaker for their convention: Saddam Hussein."
"It makes you wonder who hates Bush more, Saddam or the Democrats."
"let me ask you liberals out there: Did that image of Saddam in a sport coat and an open collar just melt your heart?"
"We killed his [Saddam's] sons. We took his country. We put him in jail. He is still calmer and more rational than Howard Dean after he lost Iowa. He's calmer and more rational than Gore after he lost his mind. He's calmer and more rational than George Soros is."
Sopistication? Manners?
I think not.
(Thanks to MediaMatters for the quotes!!!)
Former Red Sox Closer Charged With Attempted Murder
quote[Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Ugueth Urbina was arrested on a charge of attempted murder, police said Tuesday.
Last month, Urbina and a group of men allegedly attacked several employees at his family home using machetes and tried to set them on fire.
Urbina, who was detained late Monday, has insisted he had nothing to do with the violence. Five workers were injured in the incident, and one of them suffered burns on the back and right arm, police said.]
WTF!!!
Last month, Urbina and a group of men allegedly attacked several employees at his family home using machetes and tried to set them on fire.
Urbina, who was detained late Monday, has insisted he had nothing to do with the violence. Five workers were injured in the incident, and one of them suffered burns on the back and right arm, police said.]
WTF!!!
Did the U.S. Use "Illegal" Weapons in Fallujah? The Pentagon Response
quote[Finally, some news accounts have claimed that U.S. forces have used "outlawed" phosphorus shells in Fallujah. Phosphorus shells are not outlawed. U.S. forces have used them very sparingly in Fallujah, for illumination purposes. They were fired into the air to illuminate enemy positions at night, not at enemy fighters.
There is a great deal of misinformation feeding on itself about U.S. forces allegedly using "outlawed" weapons in Fallujah. The facts are that U.S. forces are not using any illegal weapons in Fallujah or anywhere else in Iraq.]
Hey, I never claimed to be "fair and balanced." But, I thought this issue deserved both sides of the story.
You decide.
There is a great deal of misinformation feeding on itself about U.S. forces allegedly using "outlawed" weapons in Fallujah. The facts are that U.S. forces are not using any illegal weapons in Fallujah or anywhere else in Iraq.]
Hey, I never claimed to be "fair and balanced." But, I thought this issue deserved both sides of the story.
You decide.
A Disheartening Tale Of Incompetence
quote["I left Stacey alone to get her memories," Mr Gaines says. "She went upstairs and after a while she screamed, 'Sis is in here. Sis is in here.' I thought, 'Here we go. She's hallucinating.' So I went upstairs and sure enough, there was Sis."]
Sad, really sad...
Sad, really sad...
Monday, November 07, 2005
Insiders say Rove may leave White House
quote[Several Bush administration officials predict that within a year, the president will have a new chief of staff and press secretary, probably a new treasury secretary and maybe a new defense secretary, the magazine said.]
If he doesn't get indicted, I'd bet he leaves when things cool off (so it doesn't look like he was pushed out).
If he doesn't get indicted, I'd bet he leaves when things cool off (so it doesn't look like he was pushed out).
Italian Media: U.S. Used Chemical Weapons in Falluja
quote["I heard the order being issued to be careful because white phosphorous was being used on Fallujah. In military slang this is known as Willy Pete. Phosphorous burns bodies, melting the flesh right down to the bone," says one former US solider, interviewed by the documentary's director, Sigfrido Ranucci.]
Military Backs Down, Ed Schultz To Air On AFN
Awesome news!! (Click the image above for a larger version).
Friday, November 04, 2005
DeLay blames Democrats, war for runaway federal spending
quote["We've been operating off a Congress designed by Democrats," he said.
The Republicans took control of Congress in 1995.]
What???? Ten years isn't long enough to really take control???
I'm surprised he didn't try to pull the Clinton card.
The Republicans took control of Congress in 1995.]
What???? Ten years isn't long enough to really take control???
I'm surprised he didn't try to pull the Clinton card.
GOP mulls ending birthright citizenship
quote["There is a general agreement about the fact that citizenship in this country should not be bestowed on people who are the children of folks who come into this country illegally," said Rep. Tom Tancredo, Colorado Republican, who is participating in the "unity dinners," the group of Republicans trying to find consensus on immigration.]
One, this is a bad idea.
Two, you can't legislate this by statute. That would be unconstitutional. An ammendment would never pass.
One, this is a bad idea.
Two, you can't legislate this by statute. That would be unconstitutional. An ammendment would never pass.
Smoke pot to deal with pregnant nausea: study
quote[Some people might be shocked at the idea of pregnant women smoking marijuana to deal with the nausea that comes with pregnancy.
But a UK-based medical publication, Journal of Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, has taken the idea seriously and published a study conducted by the Vancouver Island Compassion Society on the topic.
The Victoria-based society, which provides medicinal marijuana to people suffering from various illnesses, recently completed the study that examines the therapeutic potential of medicinal cannabis for nausea and vomiting associated with pregnancy. The study argues that marijuana is an effective method to deal with nausea and vomiting with pregnant women.]
I don't think this is such a good idea...
But a UK-based medical publication, Journal of Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, has taken the idea seriously and published a study conducted by the Vancouver Island Compassion Society on the topic.
The Victoria-based society, which provides medicinal marijuana to people suffering from various illnesses, recently completed the study that examines the therapeutic potential of medicinal cannabis for nausea and vomiting associated with pregnancy. The study argues that marijuana is an effective method to deal with nausea and vomiting with pregnant women.]
I don't think this is such a good idea...
How Bush Visit Became the Siege Of Howard U.
quote[But the visit went from bad to worse. On a day when the U.S. Senate passed a resolution paying tribute to civil rights icon Rosa Parks, who died last week, campus security guards were telling students that if they wanted to eat they'd have to come back when the president and first lady were gone, then go to a service door at the rear of the dining hall and ask for a chicken plate to go. Never mind that a student meal plan at Howard can cost as much as $2,500 a semester.]This guy could screw up just about anything...
Thursday, November 03, 2005
HAPPY BIRTHDAY KAREN!!!!
With love from Plunderer and Maggie (she couldn't decide on a screen name).
Ex FEMA Director Brown: I am a Fashion God
quote[Recently release email exchanges reveal that while the people of New Orleans were fighting for survival, former Federal Emergency Management Agency director Michael Brown was busy with fashion tips. In one email to an aide on August 29, Brown said, "I am a fashion god." His aide, Cindy Taylor replied, "You look fabulous - and I'm not talking the makeup!"]
God, what a loser!
God, what a loser!
In Vermont, a revolution to secede has devotees
quote[If participants have their way, the state whose former governor was laughed out of the 2004 presidential race after the infamous Iowa scream is going to take what some call its wackiness and others call its sanity in a crazy world and go home.
Go home to the 14 years in the late 18th century when Vermont was neither a British colony nor one of the original 13 states but was an independent republic.
Texas gets more notice as a Lone Star State, but Vermont shares with it the distinction of having gone it alone for a while. Friday's event was steeped in that history, and an urge to try it again.]
If they pull this off, I'm moving to Vermont.
Go home to the 14 years in the late 18th century when Vermont was neither a British colony nor one of the original 13 states but was an independent republic.
Texas gets more notice as a Lone Star State, but Vermont shares with it the distinction of having gone it alone for a while. Friday's event was steeped in that history, and an urge to try it again.]
If they pull this off, I'm moving to Vermont.
Dirt Starting to Fly Around Alito's Supreme Court Nomination Saying He Is A "Mafia Friendly Insider"
quote[Alito, 55, familiar with the underworld’s influence in New Jersey politics as well its racketeering and bribery operations in other states like Illinois and Pennsylvania, has been linked to “going easy, turning the other cheek and knowingly turning loose” crime family thugs when he served as a U.S. Attorney in New Jersey, primarily handling organized crime cases.
One former FBI/CIA undercover informant, living in Italy and who will remain anonymous, came forward this week, saying talk on the street when he was on the East Coast during Alito’s tenure as a supposed crime-busting U.S. Attorney was that he was “tight and friendly, dishing out legal favors to known crime members.”]
I wonder if this story will actually stick.
One former FBI/CIA undercover informant, living in Italy and who will remain anonymous, came forward this week, saying talk on the street when he was on the East Coast during Alito’s tenure as a supposed crime-busting U.S. Attorney was that he was “tight and friendly, dishing out legal favors to known crime members.”]
I wonder if this story will actually stick.
Wednesday, November 02, 2005
CIA Holds Terror Suspects in Secret Prisons
quote[The hidden global internment network is a central element in the CIA's unconventional war on terrorism. It depends on the cooperation of foreign intelligence services, and on keeping even basic information about the system secret from the public, foreign officials and nearly all members of Congress charged with overseeing the CIA's covert actions.]
And we call them terrorists???
And we call them terrorists???
Alito's Ratings Similar to Miers', Lower Than Roberts'
quote[* If it becomes clear Alito would vote to reverse Roe v. Wade, Americans would not want the Senate to confirm him, by 53% to 37%.
* If most Senate Democrats oppose the nomination and decide to filibuster against Alito, 50% of Americans believe they would be justified, while 40% say they would not.
* If the Republicans then decide to eliminate the filibuster on judicial nominations, to ensure an "up-or-down vote" on the nomination, Americans would be evenly divided as to whether that tactic was justified -- 45% say it would be, 47% say it would not.]
The republicans should watch their steps. 2006 is right around the corner.
* If most Senate Democrats oppose the nomination and decide to filibuster against Alito, 50% of Americans believe they would be justified, while 40% say they would not.
* If the Republicans then decide to eliminate the filibuster on judicial nominations, to ensure an "up-or-down vote" on the nomination, Americans would be evenly divided as to whether that tactic was justified -- 45% say it would be, 47% say it would not.]
The republicans should watch their steps. 2006 is right around the corner.
Denver Voters OK Marijuana Possession
quote[Residents of the Mile High City have voted to legalize the possession of small amounts of marijuana for adults. Authorities, though, said state possession laws will be applied instead.With 100 percent of precincts reporting early Wednesday, 54 percent, or 56,001 voters, cast ballots for the ordinance, while 46 percent, or 48,632 voters, voted against it.
Under the measure, residents over 21 years old could possess up to an ounce of marijuana.]
Gives new meaning to the term "Mile High City"...
Tuesday, November 01, 2005
Reid takes Senate into closed session over Iraq intelligence
quote[The Senate's Democratic leader Harry Reid (D-NV) unexpectedly pulled the Senate into secret session Tuesday afternoon in order to have closed discussion of Iraq intelligence, RAW STORY has learned. Specifically, the senator sought to discuss a Senate Select Committee on Inteligence report on the failure of Iraqi WMD intelligence.]
This is HUGE! It has only happened 53 times in our nations history.
This is HUGE! It has only happened 53 times in our nations history.
Monday, October 31, 2005
Worst Halloween Costumes...Ever!
If any kids come to your door dressed even remotely close to these, don't answer the door.
Happy Halloween everyone!
Cervical Cancer Vaccine Gets Injected With a Social Issue
quote[A new vaccine that protects against cervical cancer has set up a clash between health advocates who want to use the shots aggressively to prevent thousands of malignancies and social conservatives who say immunizing teenagers could encourage sexual activity.]
These neocons are fucking ridiculous. What next? Should we stop searching for an HIV cure/vaccine?
These neocons are fucking ridiculous. What next? Should we stop searching for an HIV cure/vaccine?
Canada finds flu in wild birds, checking strain
quote[OTTAWA (Reuters) - Canada has discovered a strain of H5 avian flu in wild birds and is now checking whether it is the same H5N1 killer strain which has spread to Europe, an official said on Monday.
"It's definitely H5. We're still testing for the N subtype," said Alain Charette, a spokesman for the Canadian Food Inspection Agency. There are nine different strains of H5 avian flu.]
Developing...
"It's definitely H5. We're still testing for the N subtype," said Alain Charette, a spokesman for the Canadian Food Inspection Agency. There are nine different strains of H5 avian flu.]
Developing...
Friday, October 28, 2005
Put Ed Schultz on Armed Forces Radio!
quote[Last year, Sen. Tom Harkin (D-IA) introduced a resolution that was unanimously passed by the Senate, urging Secretary Rumsfeld and Armed Forces Radio to ensure more political balance in programming.
It looked like progress was being made when the Pentagon agreed to air the first hour of Ed Schultz's daily radio show live on Armed Forces Radio every day. Then, only hours before the first show would have been broadcast, the Pentagon suddenly reversed the decision and refused to air Ed's program.
We must let our voices be heard and exercise leadership to help ensure that the spirit of Senator Harkin's resolution -- and the spirit of fairness -- are at play on taxpayer financed programming.
Send an email to your Members of Congress now -- urge them to enforce fair play on Armed Forces Radio!]
Click to sign the petition organized by General Wesley Clark!
It looked like progress was being made when the Pentagon agreed to air the first hour of Ed Schultz's daily radio show live on Armed Forces Radio every day. Then, only hours before the first show would have been broadcast, the Pentagon suddenly reversed the decision and refused to air Ed's program.
We must let our voices be heard and exercise leadership to help ensure that the spirit of Senator Harkin's resolution -- and the spirit of fairness -- are at play on taxpayer financed programming.
Send an email to your Members of Congress now -- urge them to enforce fair play on Armed Forces Radio!]
Click to sign the petition organized by General Wesley Clark!
Thursday, October 27, 2005
More Republican Corruption
quote[A federal grand jury has indicted Tom Noe, the former Maumee coin dealer suspected of laundering money into President Bush’s reelection campaign, Mr. Noe’s attorney told The Blade today.]
Will it ever end???
Will it ever end???
Wednesday, October 26, 2005
The Latest Buzz: Aides To Be Indicted, Probe to Continue
quote[Two top White House aides are expected to be indicted today on various charges related to the probe of CIA operative Valerie Plame whose classified identity was publicly breached in retaliation after her husband, Joe Wilson, challenged the administration's claim that Saddam Hussein had sought to buy enriched uranium from Niger, acording to federal law enforcement and senior U.S. intelligence officials.
If no action is taken today, it will take place on Friday, these sources said.
I. Scooter Libby, the chief of staff of Vice President Richard Cheney, and chief presidential advisor Karl Rove are expected to be named in indictments this morning by Special Prosecutor Patrick Fitzgerald.
Others are to be named as well, these sources said. According to U.S. officials close to the case, a bill of indictment has been in existence before October 17 which named five people. Various names have surfaced such as National Security Advisor Stephen Hadley, yet only one source would confirm that Hadley was on the list. Hadley could not be reached for comment.]
The suspense is killing me!
If no action is taken today, it will take place on Friday, these sources said.
I. Scooter Libby, the chief of staff of Vice President Richard Cheney, and chief presidential advisor Karl Rove are expected to be named in indictments this morning by Special Prosecutor Patrick Fitzgerald.
Others are to be named as well, these sources said. According to U.S. officials close to the case, a bill of indictment has been in existence before October 17 which named five people. Various names have surfaced such as National Security Advisor Stephen Hadley, yet only one source would confirm that Hadley was on the list. Hadley could not be reached for comment.]
The suspense is killing me!
Dr. Angry and Mr. Smiles
quote[ On a close-up view, you can see on the left face, an angry man and on the right face, a woman with a neutral facial emotion. But further back, the faces change expression and even genders! if you squint, blink, or defocus, an angry man should substitute for the face of the woman and the left angry face should not be angry anymore.
This impressive illusion created by Dr. Aude Oliva and Dr. Philippe Schyns, illustrates the ability of the visual system to separate information coming from different spatial frequency channels. In the right image, high Spatial Frequencies (HSF) represent a woman w69, 243-ith a neutral facial expression, mixed with the low spatial frequency information from the face of an angry man.
The above two ambiguous faces, termed hybrid faces, are published in the journal Cognition, 69, 243-265, 1999.]
Freaky! This really works. Try it!
Tuesday, October 25, 2005
Media failed to correct Sen. Hutchison's false Clinton impeachment claim
quote[On the October 23 edition of NBC's Meet the Press, Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-TX) downplayed the seriousness of a perjury indictment as a "technicality" and falsely claimed "there were charges against Bill Clinton besides perjury and obstruction of justice" during his 1999 Senate trial on impeachment charges. In fact, just two articles of impeachment against Clinton were approved by the House of Representatives: one for perjury, and the other for obstruction of justice. Hutchison's falsehood went uncorrected by host Tim Russert and was not mentioned by any of the news outlets that quoted her Meet the Press appearance.]Glad I wasn't the only one who noticed.
Cheney Again at Center of Drama
quote[It should surprise nobody that Vice President Dick Cheney is at the center of another firestorm. He's got his hands in just about everything at the White House.Now the administration's Mr. Fix-It faces a sticky political, if not legal, situation with the latest leak in the CIA leak investigation.
"His name is thrown into the mix," said Stephen Hess, a presidential scholar and political analyst at the Brookings Institution. "Big time."]
Anyone else giddy yet?
Target Letters Reportedly Sent
quote[Indictments Coming Tomorrow; Targets Received Letters Today
An uber-insider source has just reported the following to TWN:
1. 1-5 indictments are being issued. The source feels that it will be towards the higher end.
2. The targets of indictment have already received their letters.
3. The indictments will be sealed indictments and "filed" tomorrow.
4. A press conference is being scheduled for Thursday.
The shoe is dropping.
More soon.]
An uber-insider source has just reported the following to TWN:
1. 1-5 indictments are being issued. The source feels that it will be towards the higher end.
2. The targets of indictment have already received their letters.
3. The indictments will be sealed indictments and "filed" tomorrow.
4. A press conference is being scheduled for Thursday.
The shoe is dropping.
More soon.]
Monday, October 24, 2005
Bush Confident Miers Will Be Confirmed
quote[The White House said Monday that
President Bush is confident Harriet Miers will be confirmed to the Supreme Court, even though a Democrat on the Senate panel that will hold hearings on her nomination said she doesn't have the votes.]
He really is out of touch, isn't he?
President Bush is confident Harriet Miers will be confirmed to the Supreme Court, even though a Democrat on the Senate panel that will hold hearings on her nomination said she doesn't have the votes.]
He really is out of touch, isn't he?
Brent Scowcroft Goes After Dubya
quote[The Bush administration is bracing for a powerful new attack by Brent Scowcroft, the respected national security adviser to the first President George Bush.
A Republican and a former Air Force general, Scowcroft is a leading member of the bipartisan foreign policy establishment, and his critique of both of the style and the substance of the Bush White House, is slated to appear in Monday's editions of the New Yorker magazine.
The article also contains some critical comments on the handling of U.S. foreign policy by the current President Bush from his father, whose 1989-1993 presidency is hailed for deft management of the end of the Cold War, German unification, the first Gulf war and the collapse of the Soviet Union.]
Things couldn't look any brighter, could they?
A Republican and a former Air Force general, Scowcroft is a leading member of the bipartisan foreign policy establishment, and his critique of both of the style and the substance of the Bush White House, is slated to appear in Monday's editions of the New Yorker magazine.
The article also contains some critical comments on the handling of U.S. foreign policy by the current President Bush from his father, whose 1989-1993 presidency is hailed for deft management of the end of the Cold War, German unification, the first Gulf war and the collapse of the Soviet Union.]
Things couldn't look any brighter, could they?
Friday, October 21, 2005
Breaking...Bush Wants Another War
quote[President George W. Bush on Friday called on the United Nations to convene a session as soon as possible to deal with a U.N. investigative report implicating Syrian officials in the assassination of former Lebanese Prime Minister Rafik Hariri.]
Fitzgerald Launches Web Site
Doesn't look like he's about to close shop, does it??
Are indictments about to be announced?
(Thanks to DancingBear for the photo!)
Thursday, October 20, 2005
Wednesday, October 19, 2005
10 Reasons Why Gay Marriage is Wrong
01) Being gay is not natural. Real Americans always reject unnatural things like eyeglasses, polyester, and air conditioning.
02) Gay marriage will encourage people to be gay, in the same way that hanging around tall people will make you tall.
03) Legalizing gay marriage will open the door to all kinds of crazy behavior. People may even wish to marry their pets because a dog has legal standing and can sign a marriage contract.
04) Straight marriage has been around a long time and hasn't changed at all; women are still property, blacks still can't marry whites, and divorce is still illegal.
05) Straight marriage will be less meaningful if gay marriage were allowed; the sanctity of Britany Spears' 55-hour just-for-fun marriage would be destroyed.
06) Straight marriages are valid because they produce children. Gay couples, infertile couples, and old people shouldn't be allowed to marry because our orphanages aren't full yet, and the world needs more children.
07) Obviously gay parents will raise gay children, since straight parents only raise straight children.
08) Gay marriage is not supported by religion. In a theocracy like ours, the values of one religion are imposed on the entire country. That's why we have only one religion in America.
09) Children can never succeed without a male and a female role model at home. That's why we as a society expressly forbid single parents to raise children.
10) Gay marriage will change the foundation of society; we could never adapt to new social norms. Just like we haven't adapted to cars, the service-sector economy, or longer life spans.
Re-post this if you believe love makes a marriage.
02) Gay marriage will encourage people to be gay, in the same way that hanging around tall people will make you tall.
03) Legalizing gay marriage will open the door to all kinds of crazy behavior. People may even wish to marry their pets because a dog has legal standing and can sign a marriage contract.
04) Straight marriage has been around a long time and hasn't changed at all; women are still property, blacks still can't marry whites, and divorce is still illegal.
05) Straight marriage will be less meaningful if gay marriage were allowed; the sanctity of Britany Spears' 55-hour just-for-fun marriage would be destroyed.
06) Straight marriages are valid because they produce children. Gay couples, infertile couples, and old people shouldn't be allowed to marry because our orphanages aren't full yet, and the world needs more children.
07) Obviously gay parents will raise gay children, since straight parents only raise straight children.
08) Gay marriage is not supported by religion. In a theocracy like ours, the values of one religion are imposed on the entire country. That's why we have only one religion in America.
09) Children can never succeed without a male and a female role model at home. That's why we as a society expressly forbid single parents to raise children.
10) Gay marriage will change the foundation of society; we could never adapt to new social norms. Just like we haven't adapted to cars, the service-sector economy, or longer life spans.
Re-post this if you believe love makes a marriage.
An affair to remember
quote[A camel has been condemned to death after a worker was caught having sex with it in the remote emirate of Ras Al Khaimah. The man, a Bangladeshi driver, was sentenced to three months in jail for his dangerous liaisons. His employer reported him to the authorities after spotting him making regular visits to the camel barn, Gulf News reported.Ras Al Khaimah is one of the poorer and more traditional sheikhdoms that make up the seven United Arab Emirates, and its judiciary tends to be more conservative than its neighbours' (Dubai is about an hour’s drive away). Reports said authorities ordered the camel to be killed in accordance with Islamic or sharia law, because its meat was considered tainted by the man’s performances.]
Listen up, fundicrats: This is what happens when you let religion govern the rule of law.
Astrology is scientific theory, courtroom told
quote[Astrology would be considered a scientific theory if judged by the same criteria used by a well-known advocate of Intelligent Design to justify his claim that ID is science, a landmark US trial heard on Tuesday.Under cross examination, ID proponent Michael Behe, a biochemist at Lehigh University in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, admitted his definition of “theory” was so broad it would also include astrology.]
Just imagine me smashing my head upon my desk...repeatedly.
Rep. John Conyers: When Was the President Told?
quote[Today’s New York Daily News reports that “[a]n angry
President Bush rebuked chief political guru Karl Rove two years ago for his role in the Valerie Plame affair..” and that Rove conceded to Bush that “he had talked to the press about the Plame leak.”
Yet, just last year on June 11, 2004, the President responded affirmatively when asked if he would “fire anyone found to” have leaked the agent’s name.
...
If this story is true, it raises troubling questions to me -- and I think should trouble the White House Press Corps as well.
If Rove told the President about his role in the leak, why did the President say what he said last year?
If Rove told the President about his role in the leak two years ago, did that occur before or after McClellan made these statements? If it was before, why did McClellan say what he said? If it was after, why has he never corrected the record?]
Simple answer: Team Bush can't help lying; it's just their nature.
Tuesday, October 18, 2005
My Faith In Humanity Has Just Been Severely Rattled
quote[About a year ago, a girl was born in this working-class town and was promptly flung out of a third-floor window. She tumbled down a thin air shaft, naked, her umbilical cord still attached. Her head smashed into the concrete 31 feet below. She died instantly. And there she lay, unnamed, buried in a grave of garbage and cigarette packs.
The story gets worse...]
And, it does. Very horrific-I just can't understand.
The story gets worse...]
And, it does. Very horrific-I just can't understand.
Ed Schultz To Be On Countdown 10/18/2005
Ed Schultz will be on Countdown with Keith Olbermann tonight live to discuss the Armed Forces Radio story at 8:10 pm, ET.(Note: link is to Countdown main home page, no particular story.)
Cheney To Resign?
quote[Sparked by today's Washington Post story that suggests Vice President Cheney's office is involved in the Plame-CIA spy link investigation, government officials and advisers passed around rumors that the vice president might step aside and that President Bush would elevate Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice.]I say it will only happen if it is absolutely clear he's getting an indictment.
The case of outed CIA agent Valerie Plame is set to explode.
quote[The New York Daily News is set to report in Tuesday editions that a well-placed source interviewed by the newspaper believes a senior White House official has flipped and may be helping the prosecutor in the case, RAW STORY has learned.]
This is almost as nail-biting as last year's world series approached the ninth inning in game four.
Is it true?
Is it even possible?
I'm so giddy with thoughts!
This is almost as nail-biting as last year's world series approached the ninth inning in game four.
Is it true?
Is it even possible?
I'm so giddy with thoughts!
Monday, October 17, 2005
Jesus Christ! Do They Really Think We'll Buy This...Again
quote[The Venezuelan government has made overtures to various countries about obtaining nuclear technology, according to U.S. officials, who worry that President Hugo Chavez might be taking the first steps in a long road to develop nuclear weaponry.A Bush administration official monitoring Latin America said the entreaties have included communications with Iran, with whom Venezuela maintains increasingly close ties. Washington has branded Iran a state sponsor of terrorism and accuses it of pursuing nuclear weapons through its atomic industry.]
Give me a fucking break!!
Military reverses plan to add Ed Schultz show to Armed Forces Radio
quote[Schultz was told Sept. 29 he would be added to the military's programming today. That decision was reversed this morning. His producers are currently seeking answers from the military.
On his program Friday, Schultz attacked Alison Barber, an Armed Forces official, over President Bush's staged conversation with U.S. troops in Iraq. Barber is an Assistant Secretary of Defense.]
This is ridiculous! The right wing nut job radio hosts slammed Clinton daily, but did they ever get pulled from Armed Forces Radio??
It just goes to show: don't piss off heir Bush.
On his program Friday, Schultz attacked Alison Barber, an Armed Forces official, over President Bush's staged conversation with U.S. troops in Iraq. Barber is an Assistant Secretary of Defense.]
This is ridiculous! The right wing nut job radio hosts slammed Clinton daily, but did they ever get pulled from Armed Forces Radio??
It just goes to show: don't piss off heir Bush.
Saturday, October 15, 2005
Become Republican
quote[We like small government in ways that help people in need. But we demand huge government in ways that control peoples' lives.]
This was an awesome animation!
I had quite a bit of difficulty choosing what quote I liked best.
This was an awesome animation!
I had quite a bit of difficulty choosing what quote I liked best.
Thursday, October 13, 2005
The Nexus of Politics and Terror
quote[Last Thursday on Countdown, I referred to the latest terror threat - the reported bomb plot against the New York City subway system - in terms of its timing. President Bush’s speech about the war on terror had come earlier the same day, as had the breaking news of the possible indictment of Karl Rove in the CIA leak investigation.I suggested that in the last three years there had been about 13 similar coincidences - a political downturn for the administration, followed by a “terror event” - a change in alert status, an arrest, a warning.
We figured we’d better put that list of coincidences on the public record.]
Olbermann hits a home run with this one!
Impromptu Bush Teleconference With Soldiers Staged
quote[It was billed as a conversation with U.S. troops, but the questionsPresident Bush asked on a teleconference call Thursday were choreographed to match his goals for the war in Iraq and Saturday's vote on a new Iraqi constitution.
"This is an important time," Allison Barber, deputy assistant defense secretary, said, coaching the soldiers before Bush arrived. "The president is looking forward to having just a conversation with you."]
Kind of reminds me of Bush and his fake turkey incident.
Cheney, Gonzales Opposed Miers Nomination
quote[Veteran conservative columnist and pundit John Fund asserts in the Wall Street Journal today that the offices of Vice President Dick Cheney and Attorney General Alberto Gonzales tried to block the nomination of Harriet Miers to the Supreme Court, RAW STORY has learned.]Is team Bush falling apart?
Wednesday, October 12, 2005
Who would you bomb next?
quote[CNNN (not US) asks people On the Streets of America who they would bomb next.]
Three words: OH MY GOD!
(closes eyes and repeats to self, "Please be fake...Please be fake...Please be fake...Please be fake...Please be fake...Please be fake...")
Three words: OH MY GOD!
(closes eyes and repeats to self, "Please be fake...Please be fake...Please be fake...Please be fake...Please be fake...Please be fake...")
"Bloggers" may not be eligible for Shield Law protection
quote[Senator Richard Lugar (R.-Ind.) recently revealed that so-called bloggers would "probably not" be considered journalists by the Free Flow of Information Act of 2005, which will include provisions detailing "shield law" protections for journalists. In effect, this could mean that it will be open season on those pesky bloggers once this bill passes.]
So, am I going to get into trouble?
So, am I going to get into trouble?
Halliburton awarded another $33 million contract for Katrina work
quote[The Arlington-based Kellogg Brown & Root, a subsidiary of Halliburton, was awarded a $33.6 million contract Sept. 30 for emergency reconstruction of military bases in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, RAW STORY has learned.]
Aren't there any freakin' other companies in this country???
Aren't there any freakin' other companies in this country???
You Know Things Are Bad When O'Reilly Is Predicting Bush's Downfall
quote[O’REILLY: And then you have Libby, vice president’s chief of staff.
SAMMON: Right.
O’REILLY: And you have Rove, all right, both linked into these two reporters.
Now the two reporters are saying one thing to the grand jury. And Rove and Libby are saying another thing.
And now what looks like is Fitzgerald trying to figure out who’s telling the truth and who isn’t. And if Rove gets indicted, that could bring down the Bush administration, I think.]
SAMMON: Right.
O’REILLY: And you have Rove, all right, both linked into these two reporters.
Now the two reporters are saying one thing to the grand jury. And Rove and Libby are saying another thing.
And now what looks like is Fitzgerald trying to figure out who’s telling the truth and who isn’t. And if Rove gets indicted, that could bring down the Bush administration, I think.]
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