Is Anyone Happy with this Government?

Does anyone really like the job that the US government is doing for them? I have not talked to anyone who is really happy with the way this nation is headed. Oh sure, we all think OUR congressman is doing a good job, but when you query your friends and families no one else seems to be satisfied with Congress, the Executive branch or the Judicial branch.

President Barack Obama's rating continues to slip as he advocates increased spending to bring the country out of a recession. But, at what cost? Why should our children, grand children and great-grand children be burdened with our lack of self restraint?

Now the Supreme Court rules corporations can not be restrained in contributing to campaigns because to do otherwise would be a violation of free speech rights in the constitution. WTF? Since when did corporations receive the rights of individuals? The last time I read it the phrasing was government OF the people, BY the people, FOR the people. I sure didn't see the word "corporation" in there.

I am proud to be a citizen of the United States and love this country as much if not more than you. But, it is time for change. The people I speak to; friends, families, neighbors and co-workers to a person are fed up with the lack of responsibility from our federally elected officials. We are angry, confused and frustrated. Congress doesn't get it, Obama doesn't get it and the Supreme Court is out of touch with reality.

When people expressed anger last spring in town hall meetings, members of the House and Senate blew it off as just a bunch of over-active crackpots. The media also perceived it that way. And the national media and popular press continue to portray the "Tea Party" as a bunch of kooks. These are people who are outraged with our government. My perception is they are truly trying to change things and get the United States back on the right track. But, the Tea Party is fighting an uphill battle.

I really think what we are seeing is the beginning of a major change in the way this nation is governed. If all three branches of our government aren't going to take their job seriously then the people who go to work, pay their taxes and vote will make changes. And I fear this change may not end up pretty.

To borrow from the Brewer and Shipley song of the '70s: "It says right there in the constitution it's really A-OK to have a revolution when the leaders that you made Just don't make the grade. Oh, mommy, I ain't no commie But I hate to bust your bubble Cause there's gonna be some trouble soon".

I know this post is getting way to long and I appreciate your indulging my rambling. But, go read the US Constitution and pay particular attention to the Preamble. The very reason the United States was established was to get rid of a government that was imposing heavy taxes on the founding fathers and not paying a lick of attention to their needs. Taxes were collected for a few who benefited royally but no services were provided. Sounds all too familiar doesn't it?

Congratulations Mr. President

The United States has a new chief executive. About an hour and a half ago, Barack Obama took the oath of office and succeeded George W. Bush.

Is this a new day for America? I don't know. I certainly wouldn't want the job that Mr. Obama has just assumed because he has his hands full with domestic and international issues we have been facing for years. And keep in mind Mr. Obama is just a man...he is not the messiah some have attempted to portray him.

I pray for Mr. Obama that God may grant him wisdom and safety and that he may be just in his actions.

May God Bless America!

Thoughts on the Election

I had a hard time deciding whom to vote for in Tuesday's Presidential election. Well, on the way to the polls I decided to vote for Obama. But, then while I was in line I waffled and decided to vote for McCain. But, then when I got to the electronic machine I hit the button for Obama. And when the finalize vote button came up I pushed the vote button and my ballot was cast for the Democrat. For that matter I voted for Democrats in all but one statewide race. That was a first for me. I also voted against every single proposition and amendment on the ballot. I am tired of special interests writing their own legislation and then selling it as a benefit to the general public. I also am tired of ever increasing sales taxes. They are regressive and I will blog on this when time permits.

-I live in Missouri which has been a bellwether state for the last 100 years. But, if the recount holds up, McCain will win by the smallest of margins and break a 52 year streak of Missourians picking the winner. My guess is the vote margin will stand up and probably grow.

-In Senate races in Minnesota and Alaska I have to laugh. In Minnesota a carpet-bagger comedian appears to have lost his race to incumbent senator Norm Coleman. Former Saturday Nite Live comic Al Franken was only 500 votes behind Coleman with three million votes having been counted. If Coleman survives a recount, he would have the...excuse me...uh...last laugh.

-And in Alaska an 84 year old man who was convicted by a federal grand jury ten days ago appears to have won re-election to the Senate. But, again that race is so close there will be a mandated recount of the ballots. Republican Ted Stevens is ahead at this point but absentee ballots are not yet fully counted. He appears to have beaten Democrat Mark Begich. Which makes you wonder what the heck were people in Alaska thinking? If Stevens isn't the poster boy for term limits then no one is. But, could this be a blessing in disguise for Sarah Palin if Stevens wins and then is kicked out by a Democratically controlled congress? Palin would appear to be the heir apparent for the seat if Stevens gets the boot.

Sign Poll...Update

A couple of weeks ago I wrote that based on campaign yard signs Barack Obama was well ahead of John McCain in my neighborhood or at least along the routes I walk. But, the gap has narrowed. I have seen a lot more signs put up by McCain backers in the last week or so. There are still more Obama signs, but it is a lot closer with just nine days until election day.

Leaning Towards Obama

As of this evening I am leaning heavily towards voting for Barack Obama for president.

The crisis being experienced by the financial markets and cost of a gallon of gasoline makes me believe it's time for change. My 401k has gotten killed in the last three quarters and the latest crisis makes it even less bearable. The thought of a continuation of Republican policies has me thinking enough is enough. In addition, the Democrats are running an effective campaign ad asking how John McCain can be a reformer when his top advisers are lobbyists for the industries in need of reform.

If the election were held today, (and I wish it were today and not in six weeks) I would vote for Obama.

Who Are These People

While watching the Nightly News this evening both John McCain and Barack Obama made reference to "The American People".

I know by definition who the American People are, but do the politicians. This term has been used for years. But, it makes me wonder how politicians at the national level really perceive this group called "The American People".

Do these high level politicos really know about the problems of the rest of us and what we have to deal with every day? Or are we just the taxpayers who have to be tolerated every four years when all the pol wants is a vote?

My guess is when someone at the national level uses the term "The American People" it is a reference to an undefined faceless inanimate object. Perhaps the candidates should really be thinking about "The American People" as 300 million living breathing human being with real and diverse problems, wants and needs.

Back to the Undecided Column

A week ago, after the Democratic National Convention I had made up my mind I would vote for Barack Obama for president. But, after the Republican National Convention this week I am not so sure. In fact, I am undecided.

I am impressed with Sarah Palin and her ability to cut through the BS. Ten days ago I was not too familiar with her. But, after taking on the oil industry and good old boys in Alaska her ability to reform has impressed me.

I also thought John McCain did a great job with his acceptance speech on Thursday night. I have always liked him because he is a true war hero and seems to put the nation first. But, if he in fact voted with George Bush II 90% of the time I have some reservations. I am researching his voting record. Why? Because I don't know that I believe the people putting out that statistic.

And I also think a lot of Joe Biden as a fighter. I never really thought of him as presidential material previously, but he can certainly express himself.

In the past I thought the choices for president were poor. (See George Bush, Jr and Al Gore). But this year, we have quality candidates running on both sides. I will post more as I weight the facts and make up my mind.

Choices for President

While out on my daily walk the other day I came across the following bumper sticker:

"Choose One

A. Barack Obama

B. John McCain

C. "Poke in the eye with a sharp stick"