Trump has been a lot better president for business than Obama ever was as Obama was a regulation nut...

wordywalt comments on Jan 29, 2019:

Your understanding of economics and business is worse than bad.Your facts are wrong, and you ignore the fact that Obama inherited a crash from Bush. He was not a regulatory nut, but put in regulations to protect people and the environment in legitimate and valid ways. . Wait until Trump is ...

wordywalt replies on Jan 30, 2019:

@Trajan61 Very shortsighted of you. You will miss out on the wave of the near future. That is what being closed-minded will do for a person.

Trump has been a lot better president for business than Obama ever was as Obama was a regulation nut...

wordywalt comments on Jan 29, 2019:

Your understanding of economics and business is worse than bad.Your facts are wrong, and you ignore the fact that Obama inherited a crash from Bush. He was not a regulatory nut, but put in regulations to protect people and the environment in legitimate and valid ways. . Wait until Trump is ...

wordywalt replies on Jan 30, 2019:

@Trajan61 Evidently you are not aware of new energy technologies under development, such as production of carbon based fuels from cellulose without having to extract and add fossil fuels. And You need to be looking ahead, not backward.

Trump has been a lot better president for business than Obama ever was as Obama was a regulation nut...

wordywalt comments on Jan 29, 2019:

Your understanding of economics and business is worse than bad.Your facts are wrong, and you ignore the fact that Obama inherited a crash from Bush. He was not a regulatory nut, but put in regulations to protect people and the environment in legitimate and valid ways. . Wait until Trump is ...

wordywalt replies on Jan 30, 2019:

@Trajan61 Technologies already exist that can make the production and distribution of renewable energy economic and quite feasible. All fossil fuels and the extractive production methods are hugely polluting and should be discouraged with speedy public support. If coal, gas, and petroleum producing companies had any long term vision, they would see themselves as energy producers and would see their mission as production of the least expensive cleanaest forms of energy production and consumption the most desirable. But they have tunnel vision,

Active shooter drill at my grandkids school.

wordywalt comments on Nov 29, 2018:

It is a shame that we even have to have active shooter drills simply because the NRA promotes an irresponsible arming of people in public places.

wordywalt replies on Jan 30, 2019:

@zesty Yet more bizarre inanity.

Trump has been a lot better president for business than Obama ever was as Obama was a regulation nut...

wordywalt comments on Jan 29, 2019:

Your understanding of economics and business is worse than bad.Your facts are wrong, and you ignore the fact that Obama inherited a crash from Bush. He was not a regulatory nut, but put in regulations to protect people and the environment in legitimate and valid ways. . Wait until Trump is ...

wordywalt replies on Jan 30, 2019:

@Trajan61 It is you who shows his deliberately chosen ignorance. Adjusted for inflation, the three presidents presidents who increased the national debt the most, as a percentage of the GNOP have been Reagan (with his "voodoo" supply side economics), Bush with his senseless Iraq War and beginning of an economic collapse caused by his policies, and now the idiot Trump. That statement is backed by real facts. YOur rebuttal has no substance or truth.

Trump has been a lot better president for business than Obama ever was as Obama was a regulation nut...

wordywalt comments on Jan 29, 2019:

Your understanding of economics and business is worse than bad.Your facts are wrong, and you ignore the fact that Obama inherited a crash from Bush. He was not a regulatory nut, but put in regulations to protect people and the environment in legitimate and valid ways. . Wait until Trump is ...

wordywalt replies on Jan 30, 2019:

@Trajan61 Either you are ignorant of the facts, or you are deliberately lying.

Wow ... so much hate

wordywalt comments on Jan 28, 2019:

The problem you face is that most people equate the idea of universal consciousness with belief in a supreme being. I tend to agree with them. To me, an existential point of view is more realistic.

wordywalt replies on Jan 28, 2019:

@WilliamFleming If it is consciousness, it is not consciousness. Consciousness is mental.

Now you guys can't tell me you don't have any DIY projects.

wordywalt comments on Jan 27, 2019:

I grew up poorand in a rural area, so do it yourself was a way of life. For me, it still is for many things, even at the age of 81.

wordywalt replies on Jan 27, 2019:

@kgoodyear Factory farms don't help, either.

Bill Maher Doubles Down on Comic Fans

mzbehavin comments on Jan 27, 2019:

Here's why Bill's wrong. It has nothing to do with comic books. Not his business and never was what other people choose for entertainment. My choice is just as valid as his no matter the choice. I don't choose to smoke, pot or otherwise but I do not denigrate those who do. Not my business. Bill ...

wordywalt replies on Jan 27, 2019:

@mzbehavin When you can't have your way, you disparage. I have an IQ of 145, and had a successful career of originating, designing, implementing, and evaluating effective e programs of action, and a record of writing over 20 professional articles and two training program with full materials for dissemination across the country. Again, it does not work that way. You cannot just say what you want and demand that it stand.

Now you guys can't tell me you don't have any DIY projects.

wordywalt comments on Jan 27, 2019:

I grew up poorand in a rural area, so do it yourself was a way of life. For me, it still is for many things, even at the age of 81.

wordywalt replies on Jan 27, 2019:

@kgoodyear I hate seeing that happen to too many good rural towns which were fine places to live and grow up.

Bill Maher Doubles Down on Comic Fans

mzbehavin comments on Jan 27, 2019:

Here's why Bill's wrong. It has nothing to do with comic books. Not his business and never was what other people choose for entertainment. My choice is just as valid as his no matter the choice. I don't choose to smoke, pot or otherwise but I do not denigrate those who do. Not my business. Bill ...

wordywalt replies on Jan 27, 2019:

@mzbehavin So you can assert something in public space and I cannot? It xoes not work that way.

Bill Maher Doubles Down on Comic Fans

mzbehavin comments on Jan 27, 2019:

Here's why Bill's wrong. It has nothing to do with comic books. Not his business and never was what other people choose for entertainment. My choice is just as valid as his no matter the choice. I don't choose to smoke, pot or otherwise but I do not denigrate those who do. Not my business. Bill ...

wordywalt replies on Jan 27, 2019:

@mzbehavin if, based on evidence and experience, I feel that my point of view is valid, I have full right to do so. If I get feedback which provides clear evidence that my perspective wrong, I will be glad to concede the point and apologize. Until then, I will maintain my perspective.

Now you guys can't tell me you don't have any DIY projects.

wordywalt comments on Jan 27, 2019:

I grew up poorand in a rural area, so do it yourself was a way of life. For me, it still is for many things, even at the age of 81.

wordywalt replies on Jan 27, 2019:

@kgoodyear I understood that. As a teenager in a rural area, about the only way to make any money at all was farm labor. That meant long hours in Florida heat and humidity for very low pay. I swore that I would never live or work on a farm when I grew up..

Bill Maher Doubles Down on Comic Fans

mzbehavin comments on Jan 27, 2019:

Here's why Bill's wrong. It has nothing to do with comic books. Not his business and never was what other people choose for entertainment. My choice is just as valid as his no matter the choice. I don't choose to smoke, pot or otherwise but I do not denigrate those who do. Not my business. Bill ...

wordywalt replies on Jan 27, 2019:

@mzbehavin Don't misquote me. I did not say that people have a right to do as they please. I did say that people have a right to make valid criticisms.

Bill Maher Doubles Down on Comic Fans

mzbehavin comments on Jan 27, 2019:

Here's why Bill's wrong. It has nothing to do with comic books. Not his business and never was what other people choose for entertainment. My choice is just as valid as his no matter the choice. I don't choose to smoke, pot or otherwise but I do not denigrate those who do. Not my business. Bill ...

wordywalt replies on Jan 27, 2019:

You are wrong about two things. First, Maher was showing knowledge of the medium and of many adult drawn to that medium. Second he has a full right to express disdain for the lack of maturation shown in the choice of that medium and in other behaviors of some people who remain fixated on that medium. I was a comic book over until the age of about 19, "Wen I was a child, I sake as a child and did as a child. When I became a man, I put away childish things."

Provoked By Trump, The Religious Left Is Finding Its Voice : NPR

wordywalt comments on Jan 24, 2019:

Interesting. It is about time that some christians finally spoke out on how completely Trump is violating their theology.

wordywalt replies on Jan 24, 2019:

@goldenvalleyguy I do like your honesty and the fact that you know that about yourself.

Provoked By Trump, The Religious Left Is Finding Its Voice : NPR

wordywalt comments on Jan 24, 2019:

Interesting. It is about time that some christians finally spoke out on how completely Trump is violating their theology.

wordywalt replies on Jan 24, 2019:

@goldenvalleyguy We all have our Achilles' heels, our feet of clay. Other than their religious beliefs, more than a few Christians are quite intelligent, quite concerned about the well-being of people. I really don't like how you seem to put others down so easily.

The reactionary talking empty heads like Laura Ingram, Rush Limbaugh,, Ann Coulter, and Sean ...

PBuck0145 comments on Jan 24, 2019:

I have said this before. DJT is easily manipulated. Had he been the Democratic candidate, he could have been a good president.

wordywalt replies on Jan 24, 2019:

He only cares about his ego and his pocketbook. He is too egomaniacal, irrational, impulsive, and sociopathic to EVER be an adequate president.

The reactionary talking empty heads like Laura Ingram, Rush Limbaugh,, Ann Coulter, and Sean ...

AstralSmoke comments on Jan 24, 2019:

Nice thoughts, but I don't see it ever happening. Trump hasn't changed any since I learned about him in the eighties. He only does what is good for Trump and it doesn't matter who he steps on or over in the process. Laws are only speed bumps for him.

wordywalt replies on Jan 24, 2019:

Trump;s popularity has dropped 8 percentage points in the past couple of weeks, down to 34 percent-- an unelectable level. As the negative effects of his actions, including the shutdown impinge onm the daily lives of more and more people, that "popularity" will drop into the 20s. At that level, more and more Republican politicians will abandon him just to save their own asses.

You Gotta Believe In Something Why Not Believe In Me?

wordywalt comments on Jan 23, 2019:

Did you ever read Gunter Grass's THE FLOUNDER? If not, I think you would thoroughly enjoy it.

wordywalt replies on Jan 24, 2019:

@VictoriaNotes You are very welcome. If you read it, let me know what you think It is hilarious, biting satire that is decidedly feminist. I was really liked Gunther Grass's work and his activism.

People prefer to be lied to. Even though deep down in their logical mind they know it's all a lie.

wordywalt comments on Jan 23, 2019:

That statement is absurd. No one likes being lied to. There are people whose sense of being alone and powerless is so great that they are drawn to total system religious and political dogmas to find a false escape.

wordywalt replies on Jan 23, 2019:

@Lillyfield41 Then blame the self-serving demagogues, not the deluded.

Donald Trump and his supporters show by their words and behavior that they lack the intelligence, ...

TheMiddleWay comments on Jan 20, 2019:

"Donald Trump and his supporters show by their words and behavior that they lack the intelligence, the courage, the will, and the morality to even attempt to elevate themselves. " [steps on soapbox] Well, that would require someone to show them how to elevate themselves. It's hard to combat ...

wordywalt replies on Jan 20, 2019:

@I did not say that they were not educated. More than a few have bachelor's degrees. Still those are locked into true belief in the racist cultural mores, and into the religious and political dogma of reactionary political and religious dogma.. And, is one simply to forgive them for the pernicious effect on themselves and those they wish to discriminate against simply because they choose to e not to know any better?. I think not. And, I did not have any advantage. My family was so poor that they provided no more than $100 dollars to help me pay for college. I earned the rest through work and scholarships. The exposure to other cultures I earned by serving in the U.S. Army in Europe. I also paid for graduate school through the G. I. Bill which I earned by my military service, from work and from a fellowship which I also earned. .I worked for every damned advantage I got. Almost anyone who does not have to face the burdens of racism or ethnocentrism can earn such "advantages" if they are willing to pay the price. I am not better than those poor southern whites. I choose to accomplish something and worked to do it. Again, don't be so quick to make judgmental statements about someone you do not know at all.

Donald Trump and his supporters show by their words and behavior that they lack the intelligence, ...

TheMiddleWay comments on Jan 20, 2019:

"Donald Trump and his supporters show by their words and behavior that they lack the intelligence, the courage, the will, and the morality to even attempt to elevate themselves. " [steps on soapbox] Well, that would require someone to show them how to elevate themselves. It's hard to combat ...

wordywalt replies on Jan 20, 2019:

Let me also add that I belittle these people with whom I grew up in the rural deep south. I feel sorry for hem in that they will never become the persons they could be because of the limitations they impose upon themselves by their own ill-grounded beliefs and biases. At the same time I detest he effects of those beliefs and biases on others, and will fight to the death to keep them from imposing those on others. .

Donald Trump and his supporters show by their words and behavior that they lack the intelligence, ...

TheMiddleWay comments on Jan 20, 2019:

"Donald Trump and his supporters show by their words and behavior that they lack the intelligence, the courage, the will, and the morality to even attempt to elevate themselves. " [steps on soapbox] Well, that would require someone to show them how to elevate themselves. It's hard to combat ...

wordywalt replies on Jan 20, 2019:

I do not reign derision. I was raised in the rural deep south that encultured me to be a racist, religious, unthinking conservative. It took me many years of study and learning, exposure to other cultures, and experiences which challenged me to think about my behavior and beliefs. The vast majority of rural white southerners are religious, racist, and conservative because they have never had experiences which really caused them think deeply about their beliefs and behaviors. I have many fond memories about growing up in that setting, but also deep regrets about the person I once was in that setting. . I could never live in that setting again. Even when I do visit, I cannot express my current beliefs without provoking anger and derision. Again, I do not deride. I describe real behavior clearly and accurately. Be careful about imputing motive to someone you do not even know.

Donald Trump and his supporters show by their words and behavior that they lack the intelligence, ...

Marine comments on Jan 20, 2019:

Your statements are even more valid when applied to the wealthy who want more than their fair share of the wealth of the nation.

wordywalt replies on Jan 20, 2019:

@Marine He has written at least 23 books. Some of his best include THE SPY WHO CAME IN FROM THE COLD, THE LOOKING GLASS WAR, TINKER TAILOR SOLIDER SPY, SMILEY'S PEOPLE THE LITTLE DRUMMER GIRL,Ihave read 9 idof his books. incidentally, I spent two years in the US Army in Berlin and almost another year on my own. A couple of years later, when I was teaching in central Florida, I got a letter from the CIA laying that someone had recommended me for a position with the agency. Someone who knew me in Berlin was a CIA operative or asset and I did not know it.

Donald Trump and his supporters show by their words and behavior that they lack the intelligence, ...

gater comments on Jan 20, 2019:

Trump, that stupid billionaire.

wordywalt replies on Jan 20, 2019:

@gater No. the opposite is true. I make my decisions based on real facts. You are trying to paint a false image of me, and I resent that. That says a lot about you.

Donald Trump and his supporters show by their words and behavior that they lack the intelligence, ...

Marine comments on Jan 20, 2019:

Your statements are even more valid when applied to the wealthy who want more than their fair share of the wealth of the nation.

wordywalt replies on Jan 20, 2019:

@Marine Thank you. Doing well. With my new vision aid, I am reading more again, and thoroughly enjoying it. Have been wrapped up in a couple of great John Le Carre spy novels. Having experienced the intrigue of the Cold War in West Berlin first-hand, I identify with much of his writing . He is also a great wordsmith.,

Donald Trump and his supporters show by their words and behavior that they lack the intelligence, ...

jlynn37 comments on Jan 20, 2019:

Trump worship is nothing more than a cult and he is the absolute leader and authority.

wordywalt replies on Jan 20, 2019:

@jlynn37 That is far too true of too many evangelicals. For some simple racists and bigots, hey see simply see him as an enabler of them, their hatred, and their desire to feel that they are better than others who are different than them.

Donald Trump and his supporters show by their words and behavior that they lack the intelligence, ...

Marine comments on Jan 20, 2019:

Your statements are even more valid when applied to the wealthy who want more than their fair share of the wealth of the nation.

wordywalt replies on Jan 20, 2019:

Not onluy the wealthy. I grew up in the poor, rural south. It also applies to most of the people I grew up with.They are trapped in racism and reactionary ideology and lack the will and morality to rid themselves of it.

Donald Trump and his supporters show by their words and behavior that they lack the intelligence, ...

gater comments on Jan 20, 2019:

Trump, that stupid billionaire.

wordywalt replies on Jan 20, 2019:

@gater What does it say about my belief system? Be much more specific, please.

Donald Trump and his supporters show by their words and behavior that they lack the intelligence, ...

jlynn37 comments on Jan 20, 2019:

Trump worship is nothing more than a cult and he is the absolute leader and authority.

wordywalt replies on Jan 20, 2019:

I don't see him as a real leader of anything -- only a reckless, destructive, and sociopathic provocateur

Donald Trump and his supporters show by their words and behavior that they lack the intelligence, ...

gater comments on Jan 20, 2019:

Trump, that stupid billionaire.

wordywalt replies on Jan 20, 2019:

I don't even believe that he is a billionaire. I believe that he even lies about that, too.

For those that believe Trump is Putin's puppet.

wordywalt comments on Jan 18, 2019:

Like most people who have not lived in a culture long enough to really understand it, your are showing that you only have a marginal understanding of the USA and American culture and politics. It irks me when one seems to speak in an authoritative manner when their knowledge of the subject is so ...

wordywalt replies on Jan 19, 2019:

@powder Thou protesteth too much. Most Americans find the KKK to be a despicable group and the "America irst" policy to be idiotic and destructive.

Christian leaders rally in defense of Steve King: He ‘admirably holds to the principles of Western...

wordywalt comments on Jan 18, 2019:

These moral imbeciles have forgotten the basic tenets of the religion they claim to represent.

wordywalt replies on Jan 18, 2019:

@jlynn37 Damned well wstated!

With the stories and events that are breaking, the only question is whether Trump will be ...

DougTElmira comments on Jan 18, 2019:

The scary part of impeaching Trump is that Canada will have a Pence-led US to contend with. Pence is dangerously right wing Christian and more intelligent than Trump-a dangerous combination.

wordywalt replies on Jan 18, 2019:

What you are saying is true, but when Trump is successfully impeached and prosecuted, Pence will be more more hesitatant to take extreme action. The acts will make it clear to him that there are limits.

NRA ADMITS ACCEPTING MONEY FROM 23 RUSSIA-LINKED DONORS [newsweek.com]

wordywalt comments on Jan 15, 2019:

The NRA should be prosecuted and forced to pay fines equal to twice what they got from the Russians.

wordywalt replies on Jan 16, 2019:

@powder I'm talking about twice $ 27 million. That would hurt them.

Florida official says Rashida Tlaib might "blow up the Capitol Building!" Signs petition to remove ...

wordywalt comments on Jan 15, 2019:

I live in Florida. One has to remember that prior to the Civil Rights Act of 1964 the Republican Party was so weak in Florida that there was not even a Republican primary. The Republican party in Florida is ruled by racism and by the culture of greed.

wordywalt replies on Jan 15, 2019:

@F-IM-Forty Correct in some ways. Prior to 1964, the Republican party was the party of Lincoln. Today it is the party of greed, corruption, ethnocentrism and right wing ideologues. Back then most southern Democrats were racist populists. Now they are the party truly for all of the people and for preservation and expansion of democracy..

Rudy Giuliani doubles down on his dubious claim that the White House should be able to review and ...

wordywalt comments on Jan 11, 2019:

Guillani is just blowing smoke up his ass. The law is clear and the report MUST go to Congress.

wordywalt replies on Jan 11, 2019:

@camne Under written law, he cannot do that.

We are now getting a clear picture of Trump's real deal-making: Never think of what is fair or ...

beenthere comments on Jan 10, 2019:

What is evil about it?

wordywalt replies on Jan 10, 2019:

If you do not know, you have a problem.

We are now getting a clear picture of Trump's real deal-making: Never think of what is fair or ...

RichCC comments on Jan 10, 2019:

tRump is an American extraction economy 'conservative'. They believe In 'competiton' where it's not enough to win -- the other side must lose. At this point he doesn't care if the wall gets built or not. He just wants his opponents to lose. (And if he can gratify his racist tendencies, so much the...

wordywalt replies on Jan 10, 2019:

And, lin his deal-making, he considers those with whom he is "dealing" as adversaries and competitors, not as potential allies or partners.

The real villain in this shutdown fiasco is not Trump, but Mitch McConnell.

PalacinkyPDX comments on Jan 9, 2019:

McConnell is clearly intimidated by Trump and afraid of the influence Trump has shown when Republican incumbents run for re-election. Trump's already thrown a hissy fit at McConnell for not being able to implement his bidding and Mitch is scared Trumpty Dumpty is going to turn on him again. There's ...

wordywalt replies on Jan 9, 2019:

@PalacinkyPDX He is not intimidated by Trump. He is the ultimate corrupt political game player.

The real villain in this shutdown fiasco is not Trump, but Mitch McConnell.

PalacinkyPDX comments on Jan 9, 2019:

McConnell is clearly intimidated by Trump and afraid of the influence Trump has shown when Republican incumbents run for re-election. Trump's already thrown a hissy fit at McConnell for not being able to implement his bidding and Mitch is scared Trumpty Dumpty is going to turn on him again. There's ...

wordywalt replies on Jan 9, 2019:

McConnell is more malevolent than you realize. Please read my posting coming on him later this evening.

The real villain in this shutdown fiasco is not Trump, but Mitch McConnell.

Cutiebeauty comments on Jan 9, 2019:

I blame trump, he's a big boy... A baby, but a big baby...

wordywalt replies on Jan 9, 2019:

Trump would not have been possible without McConnell's pernicious acts over time. Please read my added comments about McConnell coming later this evening.

The real villain in this shutdown fiasco is not Trump, but Mitch McConnell.

Sgt_Spanky comments on Jan 9, 2019:

McConnell is no different than all the other Repubs who have enabled and supported Trump's toxic presidency. He knows Trump's a loon and unfit for office but he's a useful idiot who will rubberstamp anything the GOP sets in front of him so they back him no matter what it does to the country. So long...

wordywalt replies on Jan 9, 2019:

McConnell is a lot worse than most of the lot. Read my comments coming later this evening, please.

The real villain in this shutdown fiasco is not Trump, but Mitch McConnell.

patchoullijulie comments on Jan 9, 2019:

I do agree, however, he is just one of a pack of donald enablers.

wordywalt replies on Jan 9, 2019:

He is more more evil than that. I will bed posting another set of comments about him this evening. Please read them.

The real villain in this shutdown fiasco is not Trump, but Mitch McConnell.

Anonbene comments on Jan 9, 2019:

I learned today that McConnell got kicked out of the Army because he was caught doing the sodomy thing with another soldier.

wordywalt replies on Jan 9, 2019:

@PalacinkyPDX Not at all surprising.

The liberals running this website tolerate all kinds of crap from the Trump bashing left wing ...

wordywalt comments on Jan 7, 2019:

Give me a break! I have never seen the liberals on this site deliberately misstating facts or attacking other members maliciously. Your hands are NOT clean!

wordywalt replies on Jan 7, 2019:

@TheMiddleWay In some cases, yes. But, the prevalence of the cases is on the conservative side.

The liberals running this website tolerate all kinds of crap from the Trump bashing left wing ...

wordywalt comments on Jan 7, 2019:

Give me a break! I have never seen the liberals on this site deliberately misstating facts or attacking other members maliciously. Your hands are NOT clean!

wordywalt replies on Jan 7, 2019:

@TheMiddleWay I note that you did not attempt to refute the assertion that "your hands are not clean." You get what you give. That is a typical conservative demagoguery tactic: Draw attention away from the important part and not responding to the major issue.

It's interesting when I bring up Ayn Rand people write the opposite of what she is saying.

wordywalt comments on May 25, 2018:

Let me add that Rand was saying the the individual is all that is important, that we -- alone -- are responsible for our creations and that we, alone deserve the entire fruits of our efforts. That is nothing but an egocentric pile of crap manufactured by a self-absorbed moral idiot. When we ...

wordywalt replies on Jan 7, 2019:

@HankFox You are full of it, fellow. I read everything that Ayn Rand ever wrote and analyzed her work very thoroughly over the years. People like you are prone to making disparaging comments about others who disagree with you. Her work is appealing until one, through thorough analysis, determines what she is really saying and why she is saying tr. Let me add that it was in my youth, when I was self-centered and did not like to be told what to do even when it was correct and best for me, that I found Rand interesting. Ayn Rand true believers are ;people who have not yet or have failed to mature intellectually and morally, and remain self-centered.

Atheism???

wordywalt comments on Jan 5, 2019:

What do you mean by "higher consciousness"?

wordywalt replies on Jan 6, 2019:

@sammidenver The term "higher consciousness" seems to carry metaphysical connotations with it. I live in a real world, not a metaphysical one. Let us leave metaphysics to the mystics and religious ones. Being an atheist simply leaves one more open to reality.

Four passports and a dishonorable discharge raises the probability that dude was up to no good to 11...

wordywalt comments on Jan 5, 2019:

Yes, he was probably up to no good, but highly unlikely to have been spying for the USA. No spy agency would have touched him with a 10 foot pole.

wordywalt replies on Jan 5, 2019:

@BufftonBeotch They certainly implied it.

How many women are there in the Senate?

Donotbelieve comments on Jan 3, 2019:

I Googled it. 56

wordywalt replies on Jan 3, 2019:

Wrong. That may be the figure for the entire congress, but not for the senate.

The President just gave a history lesson, praising the Soviet Union's invasion of Afghanistan.

wordywalt comments on Jan 3, 2019:

Trump continues to try to rewrite history with a false narrative favoring Russia. Why?

wordywalt replies on Jan 3, 2019:

@Jolanta Your response is disgusting in many senses. Perhaps you were trying to be cute in your retort. If so, you failed, abysmally..

Do Atheists normally swing to the left or to the right?

Humanistheathen comments on Jan 2, 2019:

Most of the stats I've heard push to the left, but not universally. I believe the split is somewhere around 60/40 or 70/30. However, in terms of influencers, the left overwhelming inhabits academic positions, where professors are 10 to 1 left vs right, and in the field of sociology, 44 to 1. ...

wordywalt replies on Jan 2, 2019:

@Jolanta Marxism is a form of socialism. But there are other more viable forms, particularly the social democrat strain. With hat clarification, we have no basic disagreement.

Do Atheists normally swing to the left or to the right?

Humanistheathen comments on Jan 2, 2019:

Most of the stats I've heard push to the left, but not universally. I believe the split is somewhere around 60/40 or 70/30. However, in terms of influencers, the left overwhelming inhabits academic positions, where professors are 10 to 1 left vs right, and in the field of sociology, 44 to 1. ...

wordywalt replies on Jan 2, 2019:

@Humanistheathen I do not know much about today's American Socialist Party, but I there are many people around the country and world who believe in democratic socialism, but totally reject any form of Marxism. In fact, most socialists reject Marxism. Get your facts straight.

Do Atheists normally swing to the left or to the right?

Humanistheathen comments on Jan 2, 2019:

Most of the stats I've heard push to the left, but not universally. I believe the split is somewhere around 60/40 or 70/30. However, in terms of influencers, the left overwhelming inhabits academic positions, where professors are 10 to 1 left vs right, and in the field of sociology, 44 to 1. ...

wordywalt replies on Jan 2, 2019:

The phrase "card carrying Marxist" is a red flag statement designed to inflame. There is no such thing. There are deluded Marxists, but most people -- well educated and otherwise -- are smart enough to reject any total system ideology, including Marxism.

2019 will be the WORST year of Drumpf's life.

KKGator comments on Jan 1, 2019:

I hope they drive him straight to a massive stroke. Or a heart attack. Whichever. As long as it is achieved sooner than later. We've have had more than enough of this fucker.

wordywalt replies on Jan 1, 2019:

That would be too easy on him. I would rather see him in jail for the rest of his life.

Don McLean - Vincent ( Starry, Starry Night) With Lyrics - YouTube

HippieChick58 comments on Dec 29, 2018:

I love, love, love this song.

wordywalt replies on Dec 29, 2018:

Ceck my response above listing a number of songs I was unaware of. They are great, and you can find them on UTube Music.

I grew up in Daytona Beach and after 30 years in Chicago, I'm now going to spend my winters here and...

wordywalt comments on Dec 29, 2018:

Just make sure that the time you spend here is not summer. I grew up in Florida, too and hate the heat and humidity in the summer -- and Florida cracker conservatism all year long.

wordywalt replies on Dec 29, 2018:

@DeStijl That is genuinely surprising!

Don McLean - Vincent ( Starry, Starry Night) With Lyrics - YouTube

wordywalt comments on Dec 29, 2018:

MCLean did some fantastically good music. but far too little of it. I have often wondered why he did not produce more music.

wordywalt replies on Dec 29, 2018:

@FrayedBear Agreed. McLean is a master poet.

This is getting bizzare.

wordywalt comments on Dec 29, 2018:

Where did you come up with that crap? More misinformation and misdirection.

wordywalt replies on Dec 29, 2018:

@powder Hell, no! You know where it came from!

I grew up in Daytona Beach and after 30 years in Chicago, I'm now going to spend my winters here and...

wordywalt comments on Dec 29, 2018:

Just make sure that the time you spend here is not summer. I grew up in Florida, too and hate the heat and humidity in the summer -- and Florida cracker conservatism all year long.

wordywalt replies on Dec 29, 2018:

@DeStijl I know what you mean. I spent 4 years in grad school in Gainesville.

I grew up in Daytona Beach and after 30 years in Chicago, I'm now going to spend my winters here and...

wordywalt comments on Dec 29, 2018:

Just make sure that the time you spend here is not summer. I grew up in Florida, too and hate the heat and humidity in the summer -- and Florida cracker conservatism all year long.

wordywalt replies on Dec 29, 2018:

@DeStijl Yeah. I sometimes get cabin fever during Florida summers. You just don't want to go out and do anything.

I grew up in Daytona Beach and after 30 years in Chicago, I'm now going to spend my winters here and...

wordywalt comments on Dec 29, 2018:

Just make sure that the time you spend here is not summer. I grew up in Florida, too and hate the heat and humidity in the summer -- and Florida cracker conservatism all year long.

wordywalt replies on Dec 29, 2018:

@DeStijl When I lived in Kansas, I can remember bundling up in insulated coveralls , going for a 2 - 3 mile walk in 10 degree , and loving it! I also enjoyed ice fishing.

This whole Russia social media thing is turning out to be my best Christmas gift yet. ?

wordywalt comments on Dec 28, 2018:

You deliberately belittle the seriousness of the Russian nefarious efforts. What is your motivation?

wordywalt replies on Dec 28, 2018:

@48thRonin And, you and those others are dead wrong. I hope, for the sake of our country, that no one listens to you on this issue.

A veteran friend of mine sent me this along with the message of “ It doesn’t matter who’s in ...

wordywalt comments on Dec 26, 2018:

To degree, that is correct. We should never have been in Vietnam

wordywalt replies on Dec 27, 2018:

@motrubl4u I did my research and I stand by what I said. End of story.

High Deductible And Copays Threaten Family's Financial Health : Shots - Health News : NPR

wordywalt comments on Dec 26, 2018:

I do not understand the psyche of so many Americans when it comes to "entitlements.." So many other industrialized nations have good health care for all their citizens at much lower costs through universal health care. Similarly almost all of those countries also have a universal retirement ...

wordywalt replies on Dec 27, 2018:

@callmedubious What is worse, they choose to be stupid.

High Deductible And Copays Threaten Family's Financial Health : Shots - Health News : NPR

wordywalt comments on Dec 26, 2018:

I do not understand the psyche of so many Americans when it comes to "entitlements.." So many other industrialized nations have good health care for all their citizens at much lower costs through universal health care. Similarly almost all of those countries also have a universal retirement ...

wordywalt replies on Dec 27, 2018:

@Veteran229 You deliberately misrepresent the facts. These are not socialist countries, but democratic nations with mixed economies. They are mixtures of government sponsored programs and free enterprise. You should be more ethical in your statements.

High Deductible And Copays Threaten Family's Financial Health : Shots - Health News : NPR

wordywalt comments on Dec 26, 2018:

I do not understand the psyche of so many Americans when it comes to "entitlements.." So many other industrialized nations have good health care for all their citizens at much lower costs through universal health care. Similarly almost all of those countries also have a universal retirement ...

wordywalt replies on Dec 27, 2018:

@Veteran229 Not accurate. Republicans have always resisted any government sponsored healthcare program and did their damnedest to keep the attempt which produced the ACA from being successful. That IS why we have the ACA instead of something better.

Anyone else have a problem with the President "procedural" accident in releasing SEAL names and ...

wordywalt comments on Dec 27, 2018:

The real problem is that Trump does not give a damn about anyone other than himself.

wordywalt replies on Dec 27, 2018:

@Beowulfsfriend You are totally right to be concerned. Trump's behavior was totally inappropriate.

High Deductible And Copays Threaten Family's Financial Health : Shots - Health News : NPR

wordywalt comments on Dec 26, 2018:

I do not understand the psyche of so many Americans when it comes to "entitlements.." So many other industrialized nations have good health care for all their citizens at much lower costs through universal health care. Similarly almost all of those countries also have a universal retirement ...

wordywalt replies on Dec 27, 2018:

@Veteran229 Could we have done a much better job of building a healthcare system? No doubt! The problem is that with massive Republican resistance, the ACA was the best we could enact.

A veteran friend of mine sent me this along with the message of “ It doesn’t matter who’s in ...

wordywalt comments on Dec 26, 2018:

To degree, that is correct. We should never have been in Vietnam

wordywalt replies on Dec 27, 2018:

@motrubl4u I served in the US Army, too -- at what was then the hot spot in the world -- West Berlin. I have studied the facts about Vietnam assiduously and they do show that we should never have been there. You were sold a bill of goods whether you want to believe it or not. .

High Deductible And Copays Threaten Family's Financial Health : Shots - Health News : NPR

wordywalt comments on Dec 26, 2018:

I do not understand the psyche of so many Americans when it comes to "entitlements.." So many other industrialized nations have good health care for all their citizens at much lower costs through universal health care. Similarly almost all of those countries also have a universal retirement ...

wordywalt replies on Dec 26, 2018:

@Veteran229 built those systems when they also had to pour billions of dollars into reconstructing their countries after World War II. We afford it, and we should do it. But, at the same time, we should stop wasting money in areas we do not need, like Trump's idiotic wal and providing welfare for our richest corporations and people. l.

Left Behind by Trump’s Boom: The Rural Americans Who Elected Him

wordywalt comments on Dec 26, 2018:

I do not understand how they were so badly conned, or why they call themselves conservatives. I grew up in a poor rural area in north Florida where most have always eked out a subsistence level existence or struggled to survive. It is still that way today. They vote again and again for the people...

wordywalt replies on Dec 26, 2018:

@benhmiller Not quite accurate. The south was solidly Democratic until 1964 and the passage of the civil rights act. It was then that southerners flocked to the Republican Party in droves to punish the Democrats for passing the Civil Rights Act.

I am seeing too damned many cases of people, particularly (but not solely) from people on the ...

bleurowz comments on Dec 26, 2018:

In the grand scheme of things, it's not that important to get so worked up. From either side. There are so many more things to be concerned about.

wordywalt replies on Dec 26, 2018:

Treacher, corruption, dishonesty, abusive conduct and language, and disrespectful conduct MUST be called out and stood up to.

I am seeing too damned many cases of people, particularly (but not solely) from people on the ...

Artistlover comments on Dec 25, 2018:

I'm so over politics! I do see the right being really upset and bullying. I ignore their talk at work. Such angry at the world people. Maybe there should be two agnostic sites because it's just as important to me when I am trying to meet someone and make a connection that I know they are not ...

wordywalt replies on Dec 25, 2018:

I am also upset over the behavior of the reactionary right, but I refuse to cede the playing field to them.

Are we witnessing the fall of the USA?

wordywalt comments on Dec 24, 2018:

We must act to stop the culture of greed, corruption, and twisted ideology.

wordywalt replies on Dec 25, 2018:

@jlynn37 To hell with those hypocrites!

I am seeing too damned many cases of people, particularly (but not solely) from people on the ...

stinkeye_a comments on Dec 24, 2018:

I see you calling out "the opposition" on their incivility, and I raise you *calling out your teammates on theirs*.

wordywalt replies on Dec 24, 2018:

I said mainly, bit not solely. I am calling out for action in all such cases.

I am seeing too damned many cases of people, particularly (but not solely) from people on the ...

HippieChick58 comments on Dec 24, 2018:

I agree. I think I was just referred to as a cry-baby Lib. Really, name calling. Merry forking christmas

wordywalt replies on Dec 24, 2018:

@HippieChick5 Maybe you, KKgator and I can form a 3-person tag team that can give some of these turkeys more than they are bargaining for. That would be fun!

I am seeing too damned many cases of people, particularly (but not solely) from people on the ...

HippieChick58 comments on Dec 24, 2018:

I agree. I think I was just referred to as a cry-baby Lib. Really, name calling. Merry forking christmas

wordywalt replies on Dec 24, 2018:

@HippieChick58 When someone starts an attack on you, send me a message indicating which posting it is, and I will gladly join the fray!

I am seeing too damned many cases of people, particularly (but not solely) from people on the ...

HippieChick58 comments on Dec 24, 2018:

I agree. I think I was just referred to as a cry-baby Lib. Really, name calling. Merry forking christmas

wordywalt replies on Dec 24, 2018:

Yeah. KKGator and I have both been beset by some reactionary in Oklahoma today who keeps attacking both us. Between the two of we have called his actions what they are and turned aside every comment with facts and reason, but he is still trying.

Sorrow has reared its head in my life.

wordywalt comments on Dec 6, 2018:

I understand your sorrow completely, but find your "rainbow bridge" stuff simply maudlin.

wordywalt replies on Dec 24, 2018:

@KevinTwining You are attempting to impose your perspective on me, not to inform or persuade.

Experts: Medicare-For-All Is Viable And Would Save The Gov’t Billions Annually

wordywalt comments on Dec 23, 2018:

Thanks to the Republicans, we are the only industrialized nation which does not provide universal health care. That shows how little they really care about people as a whole.

wordywalt replies on Dec 24, 2018:

@jorj I definitely think that you are wrong, and that history will prove you wrong. Our country will eventually adopt universal health care, and it will be the Democrats that get it done.

Experts: Medicare-For-All Is Viable And Would Save The Gov’t Billions Annually

wordywalt comments on Dec 23, 2018:

Thanks to the Republicans, we are the only industrialized nation which does not provide universal health care. That shows how little they really care about people as a whole.

wordywalt replies on Dec 24, 2018:

@TomMcGiverin According to your train of thought, all programs that contribute to the well-being of people are socialist -- roads and bridges, post office, public utilities and many other programs. They are simply public services.

Experts: Medicare-For-All Is Viable And Would Save The Gov’t Billions Annually

wordywalt comments on Dec 23, 2018:

Thanks to the Republicans, we are the only industrialized nation which does not provide universal health care. That shows how little they really care about people as a whole.

wordywalt replies on Dec 23, 2018:

@jorj Just because Hillary could not get it done does not mean that it is not possible. She ran for president twice and could not get that done. The primary reason that most people do say they do not want universal healthcare oppose is because the republicans have falsely labeled it is socialism.

Has it occurred to any of my fellow site members that Trump's actions to pull our troops out of ...

Jolanta comments on Dec 21, 2018:

What makes you think that the Russians are going to wipe out the Kurds? I think it is good that the US leaves Syria. They have no business being there in the first place.

wordywalt replies on Dec 23, 2018:

@Jolanta Easily done. First of all, if we had emulated Russian actions in Europe from 1945 through the late 1980s, we would have taken over every one of the nations in North America, installed puppet governments which took away virtually all civil rights of those nations , stationed a massive number of our troops in each nation to enforce their complete, and established commercial ties dominance, and forced upom those nations commercial relationships which totally exploited those nations and their people. Yes, on some occasions US governments have sometimes inappropriately intervened in the affairs of some central American states, but there is no real comparison. And, Do NOT depict the actions of the idiot Trump and his cabal as characterizing the USA and our people. That would be a genuine travesty. Trump is a truly evil man who owes his office to the meddling of Russia and to an inept campaign by Clinton. Even with those advantages, he still did not win the votes of the majority of Americans. And, the US does not meddle in the internal affairs of Russia -- with Putin's absolute control over the Russian media and secret police, that would be impossible. If you need more examples I would be glad to provide them, although I am beginning to feel that no matter what information I provide, you will not discontinue your inappropriate bias.

Has it occurred to any of my fellow site members that Trump's actions to pull our troops out of ...

Jolanta comments on Dec 21, 2018:

What makes you think that the Russians are going to wipe out the Kurds? I think it is good that the US leaves Syria. They have no business being there in the first place.

wordywalt replies on Dec 22, 2018:

@Jolanta No. As a student of history, I can clearly say without doubt that there is huge difference.

Has it occurred to any of my fellow site members that Trump's actions to pull our troops out of ...

Jolanta comments on Dec 21, 2018:

What makes you think that the Russians are going to wipe out the Kurds? I think it is good that the US leaves Syria. They have no business being there in the first place.

wordywalt replies on Dec 22, 2018:

@Jolanta If one examines world history, one finds that Russia has almost has a paranoid steak and an inferiority complex. It has almost always felt that the rest of the Western world looks down its nose at Russia as a rather backward nation. Lacking ports during winder months, it has always sought to expand its power and control southward to give it access through the Mediterranean Sea, and it does so by attacking states or seeking collusion with autocrats. It promotes the idea that Western nations are a threat to it, and has always sought to expand its control over both eastern European nations and Finland. It also uses this excuse to try to create and sow discord to try to weaken any nation which might stand in its way. That is why I fail to understand your view of Russia.

Has it occurred to any of my fellow site members that Trump's actions to pull our troops out of ...

Jolanta comments on Dec 21, 2018:

What makes you think that the Russians are going to wipe out the Kurds? I think it is good that the US leaves Syria. They have no business being there in the first place.

wordywalt replies on Dec 22, 2018:

@Jolanta The only thing that has changed is that today'sRussian leaders are no longer hiding behind communist ideology. Their core behavior has not changed.

Has it occurred to any of my fellow site members that Trump's actions to pull our troops out of ...

48thRonin comments on Dec 21, 2018:

News flash Syria is a sovereign country that we didn’t belong there in the first place. You should maybe look into the Turkey Qatar pipeline and you’ll see that it was about money and regime change that Israel and Saudi Arabia pushed for. Russia was actually invited by Syria and as far as ...

wordywalt replies on Dec 21, 2018:

@48thRonin He accomplished what economic development that he has through tyrannical control, by fostering and heading a kleptocracy, by using control to grow hugely wealthy by controlling and exploiting natural resources and distributing the wealth therefrom among himself and is fellow oligarchs. He and his control apparatus assassinate any opponents to appear to be causing him any real trouble. On the international scene, he meddles in the affairs of other countries and regions just to stir up discord and cause the western and middle e astern nations as much trouble as he can. No, I cannot acknowledge him as anything other then a cynical ruthless and greedy tyrant.

Has it occurred to any of my fellow site members that Trump's actions to pull our troops out of ...

Jolanta comments on Dec 21, 2018:

What makes you think that the Russians are going to wipe out the Kurds? I think it is good that the US leaves Syria. They have no business being there in the first place.

wordywalt replies on Dec 21, 2018:

@Jolanta Respectfully, I think that you are being naïve. I saw, first hand, their oppression in Eastern Europe and their attempt to gain and hold territory and influence.

Has it occurred to any of my fellow site members that Trump's actions to pull our troops out of ...

48thRonin comments on Dec 21, 2018:

News flash Syria is a sovereign country that we didn’t belong there in the first place. You should maybe look into the Turkey Qatar pipeline and you’ll see that it was about money and regime change that Israel and Saudi Arabia pushed for. Russia was actually invited by Syria and as far as ...

wordywalt replies on Dec 21, 2018:

@48thRonin I mistrust anyone defending Putin in any way. He is a vicious, ruthless, power=hungry man. What are your motives in defending him?

Has it occurred to any of my fellow site members that Trump's actions to pull our troops out of ...

48thRonin comments on Dec 21, 2018:

News flash Syria is a sovereign country that we didn’t belong there in the first place. You should maybe look into the Turkey Qatar pipeline and you’ll see that it was about money and regime change that Israel and Saudi Arabia pushed for. Russia was actually invited by Syria and as far as ...

wordywalt replies on Dec 21, 2018:

@48thRonin You are full of it. I supported Bernie and was not a Hillary fan. I just knew that Trump is a walking disaster in every sense.

Has it occurred to any of my fellow site members that Trump's actions to pull our troops out of ...

48thRonin comments on Dec 21, 2018:

News flash Syria is a sovereign country that we didn’t belong there in the first place. You should maybe look into the Turkey Qatar pipeline and you’ll see that it was about money and regime change that Israel and Saudi Arabia pushed for. Russia was actually invited by Syria and as far as ...

wordywalt replies on Dec 21, 2018:

@48thRonin Oh, really?????

Has it occurred to any of my fellow site members that Trump's actions to pull our troops out of ...

48thRonin comments on Dec 21, 2018:

News flash Syria is a sovereign country that we didn’t belong there in the first place. You should maybe look into the Turkey Qatar pipeline and you’ll see that it was about money and regime change that Israel and Saudi Arabia pushed for. Russia was actually invited by Syria and as far as ...

wordywalt replies on Dec 21, 2018:

You sound like Trump and Putin.

Has it occurred to any of my fellow site members that Trump's actions to pull our troops out of ...

Jolanta comments on Dec 21, 2018:

What makes you think that the Russians are going to wipe out the Kurds? I think it is good that the US leaves Syria. They have no business being there in the first place.

wordywalt replies on Dec 21, 2018:

I did not say that the Russians would. It will be the Turks, but the Russians will assist.

The orange bastard has now divided the military leaders from those who would follow this orange ...

wordywalt comments on Dec 20, 2018:

I wish that all of the other members of his administration who are not corrupt and morally bankrupt woud stop enabling Trump and also resign.

wordywalt replies on Dec 20, 2018:

@Seeker3CO I think that some of them thought they could mitigate the negative effects of Trump or act as a buffer against him. They were wrong. Just like some non-Nazi Germanswho served in the Hitler government, they would up just enabling or legitimizing him.

Don't worry America. President Bonespurs knows "...more than the generals".

wordywalt comments on Dec 20, 2018:

Sure. Just like the Sam of Sam was sane.

wordywalt replies on Dec 20, 2018:

@maturin1919 Huh?

The orange bastard has now divided the military leaders from those who would follow this orange ...

wordywalt comments on Dec 20, 2018:

I wish that all of the other members of his administration who are not corrupt and morally bankrupt woud stop enabling Trump and also resign.

wordywalt replies on Dec 20, 2018:

@LucyLoohoo They may not want to, but if they have any sense they will-- Trump eventually destroys everyone and everything associated with him.

Most f the ideology supporting laissez faire capitalism is based on Adam Smith's THE WEALTH OF ...

WilliamFleming comments on Dec 20, 2018:

Not every trader is driven by greed, herd instinct, and fear. I would suggest that those so driven are a small minority and that people like that are generally not successful. The most successful small business owners are thinking of ways to provide services to the public. Counting your winnings at ...

wordywalt replies on Dec 20, 2018:

Yes, profit is the motive. But, that fact does not negate the irrationality of much market behavior. If greed, herd instinct, and fear were not so prevalent, we would have few market booms and busts.