Thu Dec 20, 2012, 08:32 PM

Tell me more about how this White House doesn't know how to negotiate, we're all fucked, etc...

PLAN B DIES IN HOUSE
Speaker Boehner Cites Lack Of GOP Support
http://livewire.talkingpointsmemo.com/entry/boehner-calls-off-plan-b-vote?ref=fpa

Boehner’s ‘Plan B’ collapses as GOP calls off vote
http://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/cliff-standoff-boehner-works-to-wrangle-votes-for-plan-b-obama-threatens-veto/2012/12/20/d37cd8c6-4aa5-11e2-9a42-d1ce6d0ed278_story.html

...negotiating stance: gone.

So, yeah...you were saying something about how we're all fucked?

Proceed.

329 replies, 28503 views

Reply to this thread

Always highlight: 10 newest replies | Replies posted after I mark a forum

Replies to this discussion thread

329 replies	Author	Time	Post
Tell me more about how this White House doesn't know how to negotiate, we're all fucked, etc... (Original post)	WilliamPitt	Dec 2012	OP
pleased to give the first rec	CatWoman	Dec 2012	#1
It think it is "proceed Governor"	quaker bill	Dec 2012	#2
I think it's now "Proceed, Speaker".	JaneyVee	Dec 2012	#12
Boehner should realize	Flatpicker	Dec 2012	#37
LOL!	klook	Dec 2012	#98
Or Hire an Escort n/t	Yavin4	Dec 2012	#239
It's called Merlot	watoos	Dec 2012	#140
Haha. Boner couldn't get it up! I dare Leno or Letterman to say it. OK, maybe	coalition_unwilling	Dec 2012	#107
The President got lucky.	cali	Dec 2012	#3
Did he, now?	MineralMan	Dec 2012	#6
Yes he did.	truebrit71	Dec 2012	#225
Uff da!	WoodyD	Dec 2012	#310
Um, right. He couldn't POSSIBLY guess that the Tea Party would stand up to Boehner...	brooklynite	Dec 2012	#14
I'm sure Obama has ears in the chambers to report on what is happening.	LiberalFighter	Dec 2012	#287
Thanks much. A dozen times a day I think this whenever I come here	appacom	Dec 2012	#302
That makes 6 times he's "got lucky" now, by my count	Recursion	Dec 2012	#34
And with randomness, that's possible. nt	caseymoz	Dec 2012	#163
And as likely as any other given sequence, yes (nt)	Recursion	Dec 2012	#202
no, its not	pasto76	Dec 2012	#289
And you don't know what numbers mean in reality.	caseymoz	Dec 2012	#293
Well said. nt	freedom fighter jh	Dec 2012	#297
Thats what Republicans have said about him everytime he has won anything.	phleshdef	Dec 2012	#35
i don't mind if the republicans keep underestimating him	0rganism	Dec 2012	#89
I agreed; but ...	1StrongBlackMan	Dec 2012	#131
I doubt after re-election they underestimate him.	caseymoz	Dec 2012	#222
Predictable.	NYC Liberal	Dec 2012	#39
He jumped the line. Don't you get it. He jumped the line!	alcibiades_mystery	Dec 2012	#79
+1	JustAnotherGen	Dec 2012	#195
Ditto for me!!	rury	Dec 2012	#276
lol just like he got lucky in every campaign and political fight todate.	grantcart	Dec 2012	#53
Right you are grantcart	goclark	Dec 2012	#265
A DU Obama critic speaks! Just like I predicted in my post #41. Sad, really. nt.	OldDem2012	Dec 2012	#58
Not really. It did not take a genius to figure out what would happen.	Jennicut	Dec 2012	#64
Your ongoing intense dislike of Obama is duly noted.	kestrel91316	Dec 2012	#68
Ah, BULLSHIT.	cliffordu	Dec 2012	#94
That's crap. He KNOWS who he's dealing with. Better than anyone in the blogosphere. -nt	CakeGrrl	Dec 2012	#122
I just choked a little...	Javaman	Dec 2012	#127
We make our own luck. n/t	1StrongBlackMan	Dec 2012	#130
I agree and it has set a precedent that SS is a bargaining chip. nt	Mojorabbit	Dec 2012	#173
Trump? Is that you?	fried eggs	Dec 2012	#180
No, WE got lucky.	truebluegreen	Dec 2012	#190
+1	bloomington-lib	Dec 2012	#203
"sick of this chess-playing nine-moves-ahead nonsense.If Obama really wanted to sink the Republican"	stklurker	Dec 2012	#221
Only bargaining chip	freetrucker53	Dec 2012	#231
Fine.	truebluegreen	Dec 2012	#248
+ 1 n/t	ejbr	Dec 2012	#273
and "Chance favors the prepared mind".	quaker bill	Dec 2012	#194
To use one of your favorite terms...pathetic.	Barack_America	Dec 2012	#210
Same old cali. Never pleased about anything. [nt]	Jester Messiah	Dec 2012	#214
He must be the luckiest motherfucker on the PLANET lol	snooper2	Dec 2012	#238
The sooner you admit you've been wrong about Obama all along, the sooner the healing can begin.	MjolnirTime	Dec 2012	#252
Will never happen. The delusional wing of the left. Similar to Tea Baggers, just different jargon.	emulatorloo	Dec 2012	#280
So? What's next Mr. President are you going to cut defense? I doubt it.	xtraxritical	Dec 2012	#263
Seriously?	mimi85	Dec 2012	#264
Yeah, because who could have ever guessed that a gang of rabid shitweasels ...	11 Bravo	Dec 2012	#306
Here come's the "cliff"	MNBrewer	Dec 2012	#4
Agreed	customerserviceguy	Dec 2012	#111
The president just got lucky like the	bpositive	Dec 2012	#5
what else can it be but luck, I mean he's not smart or anything.	Whisp	Dec 2012	#86
Kenyan Voodoo of some kind	jberryhill	Dec 2012	#223
wait a minute...	a geek named Bob	Dec 2012	#7
Maybe not a death spiral	Flatpicker	Dec 2012	#44
hmmm... good point...	a geek named Bob	Dec 2012	#52
I figure	Flatpicker	Dec 2012	#82
Well said...	a geek named Bob	Dec 2012	#96
They didn't really try to pass it because they knew ...	eppur_se_muova	Dec 2012	#234
that's kind of mean to the turtle.	a geek named Bob	Dec 2012	#235
Heh	ismnotwasm	Dec 2012	#244
K&R	MineralMan	Dec 2012	#8
this board goes apeshit whenever sausage is being made....	spanone	Dec 2012	#9
lols. Boner's sausage looks a bit flaccid about now n/t	Whisp	Dec 2012	#84
Haha. Can't stop laughing - n/t	coalition_unwilling	Dec 2012	#108
LOL!	OneGrassRoot	Dec 2012	#204
Wait...What?!	Kahuna	Dec 2012	#285
+1	Kahuna	Dec 2012	#284
America will be fucked if any part of social security is on the table for Boner	indepat	Dec 2012	#10
I'm with you on this. Gotta love Obama, but won't play poker with him.	Frustratedlady	Dec 2012	#11
I, too, couldn't believe the ear-ear smile...	ReRe	Dec 2012	#220
Let us thank the Lord	MannyGoldstein	Dec 2012	#13
^^^ This ^^^	WilliamPitt	Dec 2012	#16
I'd rather thank the Lord	Summer Hathaway	Dec 2012	#18
This	Solomon	Dec 2012	#73
Exactly. But, blind hatred doesn't allow some to acknowledge this^^^^!	Tarheel_Dem	Dec 2012	#169
What I find astounding	Summer Hathaway	Dec 2012	#171
I laugh at 'em. They are as comical as the teabaggers who call the president....	Tarheel_Dem	Dec 2012	#175
Oh, I hear ya!	Summer Hathaway	Dec 2012	#183
I thought the Democrats were the enemy?	joshcryer	Dec 2012	#200
he is not a terrible negotiator	Enrique	Dec 2012	#15
I guess you are right if he didnt want single payer health insurance. nm	rhett o rick	Dec 2012	#166
I second that	madokie	Dec 2012	#17
For every OP like this, there are a half dozen saying it ain't good enough.	freshwest	Dec 2012	#172
There was no need to put SS on the table and I don't trust him to not do it again.	forestpath	Dec 2012	#19
If Obama's plan is to cut SS, he SUCKS at it.	JoePhilly	Dec 2012	#23
I know! I was starting to get worried	Voice for Peace	Dec 2012	#38
And to be fair ...	JoePhilly	Dec 2012	#95
well i was just freaking out on another thread. I admit it.	BlancheSplanchnik	Dec 2012	#123
The truly stupid thing about messing with SS is the people who receive it ...	BlueJazz	Dec 2012	#40
Proceed Speaker	mcar	Dec 2012	#20
Looks like Obama caved on caving.	JoePhilly	Dec 2012	#21
Master Spelunker, that Obama. n/t	Whisp	Dec 2012	#22
I think it is fascinating on the fringes of both parties....	Liberal Veteran	Dec 2012	#43
ironically our fringe contiues a valued service in making the President look	grantcart	Dec 2012	#51
I'd say they make him look reasoned and thoughtful rather than simply ideological.	JoePhilly	Dec 2012	#87
Mmm hmm. Need to show in a hurry you're making concessions that piss off the left?	Barack_America	Dec 2012	#211
And both think he hates the middle class.	JoePhilly	Dec 2012	#80
He still offered it up.	cui bono	Dec 2012	#138
You sure about that?	Hekate	Dec 2012	#170
Jay Carney said that PBO put it in his proposal. At the Republican's request.	cui bono	Dec 2012	#291
BS.	JoePhilly	Dec 2012	#212
...	Scurrilous	Dec 2012	#246
Talk about BS.	cui bono	Dec 2012	#290
Thanks	appacom	Dec 2012	#303
Because he knew	Alfuso	Dec 2012	#281
And now it is out there to be put on the table at any time.	cui bono	Dec 2012	#292
Thats why	Berserker	Dec 2012	#24
It's the Mayan Gopocalypse!!	nolabear	Dec 2012	#25
K&R nt	ProudProgressiveNow	Dec 2012	#26
I think tht is more the fault with a limp Boehner in the Speaker's chair than Obama.	Agnosticsherbet	Dec 2012	#27
Obama has been capable of counting to 218 at least since 2nd grade	Recursion	Dec 2012	#28
HUH? Because the Teabagger Mob in the House	Iggy	Dec 2012	#29
They knew exactly who they were talking to.	WilliamPitt	Dec 2012	#32
Nope, sorry. You just don't put SS on the table as a Dem. You just don't.	cui bono	Dec 2012	#145
Agree with you and the real Democrats were livid the SS system was put into play.	byeya	Dec 2012	#216
Yes, counting to 218 passes for good negotiation. It's something most on DU seem incapable of.	Recursion	Dec 2012	#42
I Intend to Continue..	Iggy	Dec 2012	#56
I'm sorely tempted	Control-Z	Dec 2012	#30
Are you implying that he knew this would happen?	NashvilleLefty	Dec 2012	#31
But... but... counting to 218 takes such incredible skills...	Recursion	Dec 2012	#54
The Prexy plays rope-a-dope	riqster	Dec 2012	#33
If he didn't put a gradual defunding of the program that has kept older Americans alive	amandabeech	Dec 2012	#188
I trust him. You, apparently, do not.	riqster	Dec 2012	#208
It's time to say good bye to the Orange man!	sheshe2	Dec 2012	#36
but Cantor will be a new smarmy horror	Voice for Peace	Dec 2012	#45
I know...	sheshe2	Dec 2012	#63
Damn right! But, mark my words, this will not quiet Obama's DU critics. nt.	OldDem2012	Dec 2012	#41
I still haven't received my pony.	Liberal Veteran	Dec 2012	#49
Of course not--PBO's real world actions in one sense	Surya Gayatri	Dec 2012	#65
Nor will it dissuade him from his efforts to cut SS which has nothing to do with the deficit.	AnotherMcIntosh	Dec 2012	#103
Nor should it. n/t	leeroysphitz	Dec 2012	#193
turn on CNBC and listen to every conservative lambast Boehner	grantcart	Dec 2012	#46
Spontaneous Combustion!	sheshe2	Dec 2012	#106
Ah... 3 Dimensional Chess... What A Game... Remember How We Fooled 'Em Into The Public Option ???	WillyT	Dec 2012	#47
I hate to say it, but I saw this coming. I did not comment on the doom threads, as bad as it looked.	Gregorian	Dec 2012	#69
I Have Always Said That I Hope I Am Wrong About My Suspicions...	WillyT	Dec 2012	#77
And we're supposed to raise a massive public outcry against bad ideas. If we don't speak up,	Overseas	Dec 2012	#112
and yet you jump to the absolute worst conclusion at the drop of a hat.	MjolnirTime	Dec 2012	#255
LOL !!! I Have NO Personal Animosity For Obama...	WillyT	Dec 2012	#268
you act like you haven't been posting the same crap around here for years.	MjolnirTime	Dec 2012	#304
Said The Guy Who Got Here, Thu Oct 13, 2011, 04:11 AM	WillyT	Dec 2012	#305
You guys always get pissed when someone actually recalls what you have been doing. Why is that?	MjolnirTime	Dec 2012	#308
Ditto. What if the GOP had actually gone for it this time? What then?	GreenPartyVoter	Dec 2012	#206
Regarding the chained CPI....As a Democrat, you never offer to cut Social Security	TheProgressive	Dec 2012	#48
They knew the GOP couldn't accept the chained-CPI option because the GOP is never going....	OldDem2012	Dec 2012	#55
Then, there was no reason at all for Obama to 'put it on the table'...	TheProgressive	Dec 2012	#62
I don't recall that the President ever personally put chained CPI on the table....	OldDem2012	Dec 2012	#91
No offense, but it is naive to think Obama did not put it on the table...	TheProgressive	Dec 2012	#97
How about thinking Presidential-level politics is a lot more complex than you evidently believe? nt	OldDem2012	Dec 2012	#101
I won;t get into a pissing contest with you - you put something on the table then,	TheProgressive	Dec 2012	#105
People say a lot of things in public but very little of it actually becomes reality....	OldDem2012	Dec 2012	#124
At that point it will be too late.	cui bono	Dec 2012	#141
The person you are having an exchange with does not believe that Carney	cui bono	Dec 2012	#142
pelosi herself called it "the president's plan"	HiPointDem	Dec 2012	#196
Exactly! +1	cui bono	Dec 2012	#139
I said as much yesterday.	liberalmuse	Dec 2012	#50
Our President plays 3 Dimensional Chess	melody	Dec 2012	#57
Oh gawd...	cui bono	Dec 2012	#146
This was supposed to be a disputing argument?	melody	Dec 2012	#158
I love that my cogent reply was removed, but yours was allowed to remain.	melody	Dec 2012	#229
His opponents were playing Candyland.	Jester Messiah	Dec 2012	#215
Yup, pouting in the corner n/t	melody	Dec 2012	#230
that is like saying that whomever plays the Chiefs on a given Sunday knows how to play football	dsc	Dec 2012	#59
Hm...	WilliamPitt	Dec 2012	#74
They couldn't agree to their own speaker's $1 million tax hike; of course $400,000 was impossible	alcibiades_mystery	Dec 2012	#88
Clearly	solara	Dec 2012	#136
Yeah, Will. I am a good bluffer. When I can remember how, I love to play poker.	juajen	Dec 2012	#152
Go Raiders	Jamaal510	Dec 2012	#253
The President plays chess while we all whine moan and complain about him caving	loyalkydem	Dec 2012	#60
Well put. n/t	melody	Dec 2012	#159
sure, he's just been yanking the chains of seniors, people that care about them	stupidicus	Dec 2012	#61
You know,	Dyedinthewoolliberal	Dec 2012	#66
I agree with you: it would be so ungracious	Hekate	Dec 2012	#174
Obama: Wiser than a tree full of owls.	DemoTex	Dec 2012	#67
I avoid DU when the Obama bashers are on a rage	Loudestlib	Dec 2012	#70
Ditto.. This place has been very appealing for me the past few days.	Kahuna	Dec 2012	#286
K&R	flamingdem	Dec 2012	#71
So...	BarackTheVote	Dec 2012	#72
This message was self-deleted by its author	PragmaticLiberal	Dec 2012	#75
I am always willing to do a happy dance at a Republican fail.	Lone_Star_Dem	Dec 2012	#76
yes proceed..	Mockingjay	Dec 2012	#78
Eleventy-dimensional chess ... Not the good way	CranialRectaLoopback	Dec 2012	#81
And just a week or two ago, the Senate repubs had to veto their own bill	arcane1	Dec 2012	#83
I'm rather new here but.....	OkieLib41	Dec 2012	#85
Not chicken, but follow the leader	CranialRectaLoopback	Dec 2012	#90
Right. Good luck with that train of thought. nt.	OldDem2012	Dec 2012	#100
I will enjoy serving you crow, my friend	CranialRectaLoopback	Dec 2012	#143
They couldn't.	WilliamPitt	Dec 2012	#92
That's sounds childish.	GeorgeGist	Dec 2012	#104
And it was a stupid offer.	cui bono	Dec 2012	#147
The GOP is not about to publicly agree to eliminating the massive tax cuts to their....	OldDem2012	Dec 2012	#99
You are exaclty right.	cui bono	Dec 2012	#148
Excellent point!! Welcome to DU!!! nt	DearHeart	Dec 2012	#165
They could have, and it would've likely slid right into being policy.	Marr	Dec 2012	#323
I read somewhere that he is a good poker playing maybe he was bluffing	kimbutgar	Dec 2012	#93
Boner tried to draw to an inside straight. Oops! ROTFLMAO! - n/t	coalition_unwilling	Dec 2012	#113
No shit. Thank you, Will. And for those naysayers, where's the	babylonsister	Dec 2012	#102
You had better hope they don't end up taking anything similar to Obama's original offer	MessiahRp	Dec 2012	#109
I don't get where Boehner's failure = Obama's success	MotherPetrie	Dec 2012	#110
I don't know the first thing about poker, but I sure am glad boner	Autumn	Dec 2012	#114
Its the freaking anxiety.....	Historic NY	Dec 2012	#115
Egads-- remember when Archie Bunker and his BS was a joke???	ailsagirl	Dec 2012	#116
Next year Repubs: "Obama himself offered to it..."	Bonobo	Dec 2012	#117
They're dead. Dead, dead, dead.	Canuckistanian	Dec 2012	#118
We "won" what exactly? We shrewdly got what saying sit and spin would have from the last shit deal	TheKentuckian	Dec 2012	#119
.	dionysus	Dec 2012	#133
Did the American people get music lessons? Is that what your response means?	TheKentuckian	Dec 2012	#250
BRAVO. If there are more like you in Kentucky, I'm moving there! AMAZING response. Wish I said that.	BigBearJohn	Dec 2012	#295
Ditto nt	freedom fighter jh	Dec 2012	#299
We could use more, come on down.	TheKentuckian	Dec 2012	#309
It was a thing of beauty	Politicub	Dec 2012	#120
Too many here have always thought the worst of Obama first	Gman	Dec 2012	#121
And this post exemplifies how fucked our party's compass is.	woo me with science	Dec 2012	#125
Thank you!	cui bono	Dec 2012	#149
This is SUCH a great post. I wish I could pin it to DU forever. PLEASE make an OP of it. nt	Bonobo	Dec 2012	#154
Done	woo me with science	Dec 2012	#156
The Dems have been cheering Pyhrric victories at least since Clinton n/t	deutsey	Dec 2012	#217
And?	MFrohike	Dec 2012	#126
K&R.	byronius	Dec 2012	#128
sometimes, good things come to those who wait.	juajen	Dec 2012	#129
I am the first to defend Obama	DonCoquixote	Dec 2012	#132
I see this more as Boner's weakness than as Obama's strength	customerserviceguy	Dec 2012	#134
So DU is ...	1StrongBlackMan	Dec 2012	#135
It's not about being on Obama's side or not.	cui bono	Dec 2012	#151
No offense but ...	1StrongBlackMan	Dec 2012	#155
so cutting SS is being on the people's side?	cui bono	Dec 2012	#157
And given all that, he's at damn near 60% job approval. Go figure.....	Tarheel_Dem	Dec 2012	#179
Because the general public was relieved to get a Dem to replace GWB	cui bono	Dec 2012	#315
No one is "cutting SS". Oh, the drama!	Tarheel_Dem	Dec 2012	#317
New question then maybe you'll answer the original one and others in that list.	cui bono	Dec 2012	#319
Obama didn't run against Bush. The candidate this year was MITT ROMNEY!	Tarheel_Dem	Dec 2012	#320
Who said Obama ran against Bush? That has nothing at all to do with what I'm saying.	cui bono	Dec 2012	#321
These points are well taken	Stewland	Dec 2012	#298
CORRECT	Skittles	Dec 2012	#161
Obama has still put SS on the table more than once now.	cui bono	Dec 2012	#137
I have to agree,	senseandsensibility	Dec 2012	#144
No sheet changing, eh??? And I mean that in the nicest way possible, Will.	msanthrope	Dec 2012	#150
At some point, is Obama going to give up his plan to reduce SS by using a chained-CPI?	AnotherMcIntosh	Dec 2012	#153
I keep thinking something is up, that we don't know the whole story	Skittles	Dec 2012	#160
Sounds more like the Republican Party knows how to stick to its guns while we throw the	Fearless	Dec 2012	#162
This is better, how?	caseymoz	Dec 2012	#164
Hitler?	DonCoquixote	Dec 2012	#167
I only said Hitler had a lucky streak . . .	caseymoz	Dec 2012	#184
point noted	DonCoquixote	Dec 2012	#186
I figured this would happen	agentS	Dec 2012	#168
Not to be too contrary,	tavalon	Dec 2012	#176
K&R.	cliffordu	Dec 2012	#177
Thank you Will	Hekate	Dec 2012	#178
The president agreed to harm social security	quakerboy	Dec 2012	#181
there's still 10 more days to go	hfojvt	Dec 2012	#182
Really all we have to go by is his previous deals with the republicans	AgingAmerican	Dec 2012	#185
Rec #184	lamp_shade	Dec 2012	#187
All due respect - bullshit	Cosmocat	Dec 2012	#189
Confusing people with facts is an old tactic.....	Rowdyboy	Dec 2012	#191
This is absolute bullshit.	aandegoons	Dec 2012	#192
The President only cares about "the deal"	T Roosevelt	Dec 2012	#197
lawl, didn't you know, it's all over!	joshcryer	Dec 2012	#198
So there's a deal now? Social Security is no longer on any table and never will be?	Bluenorthwest	Dec 2012	#199
Great?	joshcryer	Dec 2012	#201
There is no deal. The objective of these negotiations was not 'no deal and Boehner looks bad'	Bluenorthwest	Dec 2012	#205
Well said and I have the same question	Liberalynn	Dec 2012	#209
LOL, our side spins shit as bad as the GOP! Obama can do no wrong!	Logical	Dec 2012	#207
He can do plenty wrong, but generally not from a lack of wits.	Barack_America	Dec 2012	#213
Will, I've loved your OPs over the years....	blackspade	Dec 2012	#218
Yep	Eddie Haskell	Dec 2012	#219
So because Boner can't get his sheep in a row Obama is genius?	truebrit71	Dec 2012	#224
Did I miss something?	dawg	Dec 2012	#226
The failure of Boehner's Plan B is exactly why Obama should have stood his ground.	olegramps	Dec 2012	#227
well	heaven05	Dec 2012	#228
Kinda like having to beg your spouse everyday to not cheat on ya.	jsr	Dec 2012	#232
Boehner	Johnny2X2X	Dec 2012	#233
Bookmarked n/t	Oilwellian	Dec 2012	#236
Way past time	JEB	Dec 2012	#237
Sounds like a civics lesson might be in order? Obama has to "negotiate" with the.....	Tarheel_Dem	Dec 2012	#322
Maybe left leaning voters	JEB	Dec 2012	#324
There's always the Jill Stein Party, The Roseanne Party, The Rocky Anderson Party.	Tarheel_Dem	Dec 2012	#326
Just keep sliding to the right?	JEB	Dec 2012	#327
I voted for BO	JEB	Dec 2012	#328
MMMMkay!	Tarheel_Dem	Dec 2012	#329
I am glad of course	Liberal1975	Dec 2012	#240
He opened the door to SS cuts while he he didn't have to -	bread_and_roses	Dec 2012	#241
Kindly tell me how he's going to get back all the concessions he has already offered	BlueStreak	Dec 2012	#242
generally an offer has to be made again once rejected	arely staircase	Dec 2012	#313
But they know he is willing to give up chained CPI and at least $400K as the income limit	BlueStreak	Dec 2012	#314
there is nothing to get back	arely staircase	Dec 2012	#316
The OP is way overoptimistic.	JDPriestly	Dec 2012	#243
The Negativity is strong with this one.	MjolnirTime	Dec 2012	#256
And if they come back and accept his previous offer?	ibegurpard	Dec 2012	#245
DOOOOOOMED! DOOOOOOOOOMED!	MynameisBlarney	Dec 2012	#247
i see the "obama lost the first debate" folks still don`t get it	madrchsod	Dec 2012	#249
If I spoke for the GOP, I would just say I couldn't accept a deal that would affect Social Security.	djean111	Dec 2012	#251
To be fair, is it really that difficult to outwit the GOP?	AnnieK401	Dec 2012	#254
"They think with their guns."	Jamaal510	Dec 2012	#258
Thank you! Enthusiastic kicked and rec'd.	BlueCaliDem	Dec 2012	#257
Tell the two million unemployed that lose benefits at the end of the year about the negotiatons.	former9thward	Dec 2012	#259
They tell us they are going to give us pain if we don't give them what they want	nolabels	Dec 2012	#262
K&R	closeupready	Dec 2012	#260
Spin this:	Luschnig	Dec 2012	#261
Splain for us devoid of negotiating skills.	Baitball Blogger	Dec 2012	#266
Here's more.	FiveGoodMen	Dec 2012	#267
They were playing taps for Boehner on NPR this morning.	Robb	Dec 2012	#269
"I agree with you, I want to do it, now make me do it." Obama	sulphurdunn	Dec 2012	#270
Yeah,	JEB	Dec 2012	#325
They say the fight game is won by rounds. I think we just saw round 1.	Ford_Prefect	Dec 2012	#271
After all the "Obama puts SS on the table" and "Obama is caving" threads,	CheapShotArtist	Dec 2012	#272
But..Will...he governs for "SOME DEMS"...but not for us ALL Here:	KoKo	Dec 2012	#274
So awesome! Thanks for posting this! Laughed out loud!	Firebrand Gary	Dec 2012	#275
Negotiations are entering phase 2, but they aren't over until the deadline is passed.	JDPriestly	Dec 2012	#277
Did we suddenly get a deal that averts the fiscal cliff, doesn't touch Soc Sec, and	Bake	Dec 2012	#278
Will: thanks. Getting sick of these negative bullshit lying posts	emulatorloo	Dec 2012	#279
Because he's negotiating with himself! We were saved from Social Security cuts by..... Boner????	grahamhgreen	Dec 2012	#282
Two great Will Pitt threads from the past:	Bluenorthwest	Dec 2012	#283
So much for Juries	WilliamPitt	Dec 2012	#288
not me	Skittles	Dec 2012	#294
YES!!	SkyDaddy7	Dec 2012	#296
Meanwhile, back on Planet Earth,	bvar22	Dec 2012	#300
+1. "Obama HAS violated the Cardinal Rule: Never Gamble with the Rent Money."	grahamhgreen	Dec 2012	#307
What Planet Do You Live On? Cause On This Planet, Not Only Have Changes to SS Been Discussed	Skraxx	Dec 2012	#318
if Obama doesn't pull a first debate on us - he could do tremendous good for this country	samsingh	Dec 2012	#301
K&R Better late than never, especially around here	Number23	Dec 2012	#311
The back tracking is getting ridiculous.	Rex	Dec 2012	#312

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 08:35 PM

CatWoman (67,971 posts)

1. pleased to give the first rec

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 08:36 PM

quaker bill (7,129 posts)

2. It think it is "proceed Governor"

I have been saying that Boehner couldn't get his majority up for days. He couldn't last time, and it is more or less the same plan with the same guys.

Reply to this post

Response to quaker bill (Reply #2)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 08:42 PM

JaneyVee (3,818 posts)

12. I think it's now "Proceed, Speaker".

Reply to this post

Response to quaker bill (Reply #2)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:07 PM

Flatpicker (515 posts)

37. Boehner should realize

they have medication for that now.

Reply to this post

Response to Flatpicker (Reply #37)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 10:00 PM

klook (4,461 posts)

98. LOL!

If your majority stays up for more than seven days, consult your doctor.

Reply to this post

Response to klook (Reply #98)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 11:22 AM

Yavin4 (18,504 posts)

239. Or Hire an Escort n/t

Reply to this post

Response to Flatpicker (Reply #37)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 11:27 PM

watoos (108 posts)

140. It's called Merlot

that icky warm wine.

Reply to this post

Response to quaker bill (Reply #2)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 10:15 PM

coalition_unwilling (14,180 posts)

107. Haha. Boner couldn't get it up! I dare Leno or Letterman to say it. OK, maybe

it'll be Craig Ferguson.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 08:36 PM

cali (80,197 posts)

3. The President got lucky.

Reply to this post

Response to cali (Reply #3)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 08:38 PM

MineralMan (53,915 posts)

6. Did he, now?

Uff da!

Reply to this post

Response to MineralMan (Reply #6)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 10:08 AM

truebrit71 (16,908 posts)

225. Yes he did.

Reply to this post

Response to MineralMan (Reply #6)

Thu Dec 27, 2012, 06:14 PM

WoodyD (186 posts)

310. Uff da!

Haven't heard that since I left North Dakota - I see you're from Minnesota. Ya, you betcha.

Reply to this post

Response to cali (Reply #3)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 08:47 PM

brooklynite (12,866 posts)

14. Um, right. He couldn't POSSIBLY guess that the Tea Party would stand up to Boehner...

Reply to this post

Response to brooklynite (Reply #14)

Sat Dec 22, 2012, 10:56 AM

LiberalFighter (31,079 posts)

287. I'm sure Obama has ears in the chambers to report on what is happening.

Much easier to predict the outcome with the teabaggers lingering around. Boehner and Cantor should know their own numbers. Doesn't say much about his leadership compared to Pelosi when she was Speaker.

I get really irked by too many here that are Chicken Little with the sky falling. Especially when they rely too much on the scumbag pundits like Luke Russert and Chuck Toad.

Reply to this post

Response to LiberalFighter (Reply #287)

Mon Dec 24, 2012, 07:59 PM

appacom (169 posts)

302. Thanks much. A dozen times a day I think this whenever I come here

Reply to this post

Response to cali (Reply #3)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:06 PM

Recursion (25,500 posts)

34. That makes 6 times he's "got lucky" now, by my count

At some point I have to say the coin only has two heads...

Reply to this post

Response to Recursion (Reply #34)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 12:47 AM

caseymoz (5,172 posts)

163. And with randomness, that's possible. nt

Reply to this post

Response to caseymoz (Reply #163)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 07:16 AM

Recursion (25,500 posts)

202. And as likely as any other given sequence, yes (nt)

Reply to this post

Response to caseymoz (Reply #163)

Sat Dec 22, 2012, 10:48 PM

pasto76 (1,333 posts)

289. no, its not

for a two headed coin, each side has a 1 in 2 chance of landing up.

so according to you, and then injecting reality, the president has been (1/2)(1/2)(1/2)(1/2)(1/2)(1/2) = 1/64 chance that he is 'lucky' 6 times in a row.

of course, there is nothing random about congress or politics. So you're just kind of an ass

Reply to this post

Response to pasto76 (Reply #289)

Sun Dec 23, 2012, 12:02 AM

caseymoz (5,172 posts)

293. And you don't know what numbers mean in reality.

While clearly not probable, that is you can't count on it happening, an event (or series) that has a 1 in 64 chance is quite possible. Especially when Obama's victories are unspecified, undefined, cherry picked from memory, and were not even restricted by case to Congressional votes. Did you notice any of that?

Now, look at sports scores throughout a major league sport (except the NFL where the sample is too small. Take five seasons.) Find out how many teams had a six game winning streak. Then, look at where the teams actually finished in the standings. If only you knew a team won at least six games in a row during a season (or an NFL five season period), you cannot predict where the team finished in the standings.

Read Leonard Mlodinov's The Drunkard's Walk. The one thing that should stun you is how many successful CEO's were on lucky streaks, and how the news stories changed about them as soon as the streaks were ended. Mlodinov is a mathematician who works with Stephen Hawking, BTW, so he's not just somebody making a pretentious claim out of his area of expertise.

As it applies here, I'm not saying it's impossible that Obama is that brilliant, I'm saying it's better you don't presume it during his career, but declare it in retrospect.

Was the vote against Boehner's Plan B a victory? On the one hand, it makes the Republicans look bad. It brings us closer to a fiscal cliff where everybody will lose, but one hopes the Republicans will lose more. There's nothing definite about that.

On the other hand, if Boehner is weakened as a leader than any deal he makes with Obama can't be promised, that's bad. Who can Obama negotiate with, then? What it means right now is that there's no end to the stalemate in sight because Republicans are now a plurality in the House and no deal will make them happy.

As was pointed out on NPR, the Republicans are now in gerrymandered districts where a Republican can't lose in the general election. Therefore, the only thing they have to fear to lose their seats is a primary challenger from the farther right.

So far, I can't see a victory for Obama or for the country in Boehner's defeat. We'll know if Obama's a genius in 2020. Right now, it's hard to tell.

It's not like I have to worry about him winning in 2016. I'll go by the policies he proposes and enacts. Chained-CPI is bad. Yes, I think he meant it.

Do you still think I'm an ass?

Reply to this post

Response to caseymoz (Reply #293)

Sun Dec 23, 2012, 11:06 AM

freedom fighter jh (887 posts)

297. Well said. nt

Reply to this post

Response to cali (Reply #3)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:06 PM

phleshdef (8,293 posts)

35. Thats what Republicans have said about him everytime he has won anything.

You people and the Republicans need to stop underestimating Barack Obama. He is way smarter and more savvy than any of you will ever allow yourselves to admit.

Reply to this post

Response to phleshdef (Reply #35)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:47 PM

0rganism (16,928 posts)

89. i don't mind if the republicans keep underestimating him

it pays off big-time for us when they get schooled.

Reply to this post

Response to 0rganism (Reply #89)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 11:03 PM

1StrongBlackMan (5,386 posts)

131. I agreed; but ...

I wish DUers would stop.

Reply to this post

Response to 0rganism (Reply #89)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 09:15 AM

caseymoz (5,172 posts)

222. I doubt after re-election they underestimate him.

Having paranoid delusions is most likely.

Reply to this post

Response to cali (Reply #3)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:07 PM

NYC Liberal (15,599 posts)

39. Predictable.

Obama appears to do something wrong, he gets all the blame.
Obama appears to do something right, he gets none of the credit.

Reply to this post

Response to NYC Liberal (Reply #39)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:34 PM

alcibiades_mystery (28,406 posts)

79. He jumped the line. Don't you get it. He jumped the line!

Some people are still stuck in March 2008.

Reply to this post

Response to NYC Liberal (Reply #39)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 06:35 AM

JustAnotherGen (5,589 posts)

195. +1

Sad - but true. Same old same old - he must have gotten lucky because he didn't work hard, had special concessions, got a free ride. I'm so sick of that bullshit - not just at him - but all people including myself that look like him.

Reply to this post

Response to JustAnotherGen (Reply #195)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 08:47 PM

rury (714 posts)

276. Ditto for me!!

Why are white people always "skilled" when they do something well, but blacks are just "lucky?"
Freeze that shit, people, okay?

Reply to this post

Response to cali (Reply #3)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:15 PM

grantcart (38,741 posts)

53. lol just like he got lucky in every campaign and political fight todate.

He was so lucky to have Hussein as a middle name and be raised by a single mother.

Just a lucky duck for the last 20 years.

Reply to this post

Response to grantcart (Reply #53)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 04:54 PM

goclark (30,404 posts)

265. Right you are grantcart

Happy Holidays

Reply to this post

Response to cali (Reply #3)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:19 PM

OldDem2012 (3,526 posts)

58. A DU Obama critic speaks! Just like I predicted in my post #41. Sad, really. nt.

Reply to this post

Response to cali (Reply #3)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:22 PM

Jennicut (25,343 posts)

64. Not really. It did not take a genius to figure out what would happen.

The Repubs REALLY are THAT stupid.

Reply to this post

Response to cali (Reply #3)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:26 PM

kestrel91316 (45,394 posts)

68. Your ongoing intense dislike of Obama is duly noted.

Reply to this post

Response to cali (Reply #3)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:52 PM

cliffordu (29,431 posts)

94. Ah, BULLSHIT.

THIS is only about the third time he's chumped them chumps.

I like you, cali -

But you REALLY need to pay attention to more than the panic peeps.

Reply to this post

Response to cali (Reply #3)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 10:45 PM

CakeGrrl (9,033 posts)

122. That's crap. He KNOWS who he's dealing with. Better than anyone in the blogosphere. -nt

Reply to this post

Response to cali (Reply #3)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 11:00 PM

Javaman (40,613 posts)

127. I just choked a little...

while laughing out loud.

Reply to this post

Response to cali (Reply #3)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 11:02 PM

1StrongBlackMan (5,386 posts)

130. We make our own luck. n/t

Reply to this post

Response to cali (Reply #3)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 02:10 AM

Mojorabbit (12,777 posts)

173. I agree and it has set a precedent that SS is a bargaining chip. nt

Reply to this post

Response to cali (Reply #3)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 02:26 AM

fried eggs (392 posts)

180. Trump? Is that you?

It couldn't be because he outwitted the GOP, once again... could it?

No... he's just LUCKY!

Reply to this post

Response to cali (Reply #3)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 05:31 AM

truebluegreen (1,638 posts)

190. No, WE got lucky.

Last edited Fri Dec 21, 2012, 05:33 AM USA/ET - Edit history (1)

Lucky that the Republicans are too crazy to accept even a good deal from the Grand Bargainer in Chief.

I'm sick of this chess-playing nine-moves-ahead nonsense. If Obama really wanted to sink the Republican brand (which desperately needs doing) he'd make them stand on their positions, instead of moving toward them and making their off-the-deep-end policies sound marginally more moderate.

Yes, we need to govern now, but validating any part of the reich-wing's lunacy is NOT the way to get anything positive done.

Edited to add: having Nancy Pelosi out there claiming a chained-CPI is a good thing was flat embarrassing. WTF does this party stand for?

Reply to this post

Response to truebluegreen (Reply #190)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 07:37 AM

bloomington-lib (803 posts)

203. +1

Reply to this post

Response to truebluegreen (Reply #190)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 09:14 AM

stklurker (177 posts)

221. "sick of this chess-playing nine-moves-ahead nonsense.If Obama really wanted to sink the Republican"

Ummm... huh?? As far as the playing chess goes.. thats how this works, when you have a split Congress its a chess game, plain and simple.. you might have an advantage, but until its over its always a game... And what he did is EXACTLY what you wish.. he offered a plan that showed him potentially willing to compromise... and the Repugs SHOWED that they couldnt do it.. they went back to their "off-the-deep-end policies" and showed that their special interests (no-tax pledge) was more important than the immediate needs of the country. Checkmate...

And I am sorry, I have long said Nancy Pelosi is absolutely useless, her stupid quote 'bank' got another entry..... one reason we have been so stuck in Congress is that Pelosi and Reid are just awful... hate to say it, but its true

Reply to this post

Response to stklurker (Reply #221)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 10:27 AM

freetrucker53 (36 posts)

231. Only bargaining chip

But is social security Obama's only bargaining chip?

Reply to this post

Response to stklurker (Reply #221)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 12:42 PM

truebluegreen (1,638 posts)

248. Fine.

When they go ahead with the chained-CPI lunacy we can talk again.

Reply to this post

Response to truebluegreen (Reply #190)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 08:03 PM

ejbr (3,953 posts)

273. + 1 n/t

Reply to this post

Response to cali (Reply #3)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 06:20 AM

quaker bill (7,129 posts)

194. and "Chance favors the prepared mind".

Reply to this post

Response to cali (Reply #3)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 08:22 AM

Barack_America (24,436 posts)

210. To use one of your favorite terms...pathetic.

Reply to this post

Response to cali (Reply #3)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 08:36 AM

Jester Messiah (1,808 posts)

214. Same old cali. Never pleased about anything. [nt]

Reply to this post

Response to cali (Reply #3)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 11:20 AM

snooper2 (16,603 posts)

238. He must be the luckiest motherfucker on the PLANET lol

Reply to this post

Response to cali (Reply #3)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 01:57 PM

MjolnirTime (1,323 posts)

252. The sooner you admit you've been wrong about Obama all along, the sooner the healing can begin.

Reply to this post

Response to MjolnirTime (Reply #252)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 10:11 PM

emulatorloo (24,216 posts)

280. Will never happen. The delusional wing of the left. Similar to Tea Baggers, just different jargon.

Last edited Fri Dec 21, 2012, 10:13 PM USA/ET - Edit history (1)

But just as out of touch with reality.

Reply to this post

Response to cali (Reply #3)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 04:18 PM

xtraxritical (2,968 posts)

263. So? What's next Mr. President are you going to cut defense? I doubt it.

Reply to this post

Response to cali (Reply #3)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 04:18 PM

mimi85 (407 posts)

264. Seriously?

From Bin Laden to the repeal of Don't Ask Don't Tell - those were all luck?

Reply to this post

Response to cali (Reply #3)

Tue Dec 25, 2012, 06:13 PM

11 Bravo (15,442 posts)

306. Yeah, because who could have ever guessed that a gang of rabid shitweasels ...

might actually act like a gang of rabid shitweasels? I tell you, the man's a fucking Nostradamus!

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 08:37 PM

MNBrewer (5,644 posts)

4. Here come's the "cliff"

Reply to this post

Response to MNBrewer (Reply #4)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 10:21 PM

customerserviceguy (14,711 posts)

111. Agreed

With the tea partiers unwilling to vote for a single dollar in tax increases on anyone, and our side pretty much united on voting against any spending cuts (yeah, military, so what) or changes in entitlements, we're definitely going over the cliff.

I guess I'm lucky, I have a job in a utility company where the product is absolutely essential to human life as we know it, and I'm looking to try to get a deal on a car. I was planning on swooping down in the week after Christmas if there was a deal, but I think I'm going to wait until late January now.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 08:38 PM

bpositive (125 posts)

5. The president just got lucky like the

Last edited Thu Dec 20, 2012, 08:39 PM USA/ET - Edit history (2)

Last time and the time before and the time before that and ...

Reply to this post

Response to bpositive (Reply #5)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:39 PM

Whisp (17,184 posts)

86. what else can it be but luck, I mean he's not smart or anything.

or has some awesome smart people advising him and he's willing to listen to other smart people.

Reply to this post

Response to Whisp (Reply #86)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 09:22 AM

jberryhill (29,884 posts)

223. Kenyan Voodoo of some kind

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 08:38 PM

a geek named Bob (2,715 posts)

7. wait a minute...

The GOP controlled congress couldn't get their own bill passed?

Damn.

We may be seeing the slow death spiral of the GOP.

Reply to this post

Response to a geek named Bob (Reply #7)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:08 PM

Flatpicker (515 posts)

44. Maybe not a death spiral

But, definitely a fracture is coming up.

I just wonder who gets to keep the GOP name?

Reply to this post

Response to Flatpicker (Reply #44)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:14 PM

a geek named Bob (2,715 posts)

52. hmmm... good point...

I can see some sort of "scared old straight white guys" sub party, a "we wish we were the 1%" sub party, and what's left of the (im)Moral majority party sort of standing on the sides.

What's your take on this?

Reply to this post

Response to a geek named Bob (Reply #52)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:36 PM

Flatpicker (515 posts)

82. I figure

The scared old straight white guys will buddy up with the (im)Moral Majority party.
That should encompass the:

God Botherers, Gun Nutz, Klanzmen (have to change the names to recruit the youth, plenty of x's and z's should show how X-Treme they are), Doctor Killaz. They can become the New Republicans. Probably have a catchphrase like "Are you a Republican't or a RepubliCAN?"

The 1%ers will take in most of the Tea Baggers and use them as cannon fodder in the next round of Robber Barron vs the rest of the country. Seeing as how most of the Tea Partiers think they are Millionaires that are temporarily inconvenienced, the true wealthy can keep dangling that carrot for years.
I could almost see them Taking on the "Grand Old Party" as a name and try to use it as a throwback to Reagan era supporters.

Reply to this post

Response to Flatpicker (Reply #82)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:55 PM

a geek named Bob (2,715 posts)

96. Well said...

On the other hand... the meme I keep hearing is that Texas will likely vote blue, by 2024.

I could easily see the "New and Improved GOP" being a minority party.

The thing that keeps me wondering is... what will this do to the Democratic party?

I've voted straight blue since I was 18. I'd like to imagine that the party will still be around.

Reply to this post

Response to a geek named Bob (Reply #7)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 11:00 AM

eppur_se_muova (20,761 posts)

234. They didn't really try to pass it because they knew ...

McConnell would just filibuster it in the senate ...

Reply to this post

Response to eppur_se_muova (Reply #234)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 11:03 AM

a geek named Bob (2,715 posts)

235. that's kind of mean to the turtle.

Reply to this post

Response to a geek named Bob (Reply #235)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 11:53 AM

ismnotwasm (9,667 posts)

244. Heh

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 08:38 PM

MineralMan (53,915 posts)

8. K&R

Interesting, isn't it?

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 08:40 PM

spanone (72,109 posts)

9. this board goes apeshit whenever sausage is being made....

Reply to this post

Response to spanone (Reply #9)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:36 PM

Whisp (17,184 posts)

84. lols. Boner's sausage looks a bit flaccid about now n/t

Reply to this post

Response to Whisp (Reply #84)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 10:18 PM

coalition_unwilling (14,180 posts)

108. Haha. Can't stop laughing - n/t

Reply to this post

Response to Whisp (Reply #84)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 07:43 AM

OneGrassRoot (18,753 posts)

204. LOL!

Reply to this post

Response to Whisp (Reply #84)

Sat Dec 22, 2012, 10:51 AM

Kahuna (26,403 posts)

285. Wait...What?!

Last edited Sat Dec 22, 2012, 10:52 AM USA/ET - Edit history (1)

Reply to this post

Response to spanone (Reply #9)

Sat Dec 22, 2012, 10:48 AM

Kahuna (26,403 posts)

284. +1

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 08:40 PM

indepat (18,903 posts)

10. America will be fucked if any part of social security is on the table for Boner

to gobble up: cuts thereto would thereafter be on the table every year until 'pukes squeeze it down to the size that can be drowned in a bathtub.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 08:41 PM

Frustratedlady (8,912 posts)

11. I'm with you on this. Gotta love Obama, but won't play poker with him.

Cantor just got his Christmas gift...he can't wipe the smile off his mug.

Go, Bama!

Reply to this post

Response to Frustratedlady (Reply #11)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 09:09 AM

ReRe (2,854 posts)

220. I, too, couldn't believe the ear-ear smile...

...on Eric Cantor's face.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 08:45 PM

MannyGoldstein (21,443 posts)

13. Let us thank the Lord

For our extraordinarily stupid enemies.

And let us take advantage of their stupidity, kick their asses, and send them fleeing unto the hills.

Reply to this post

Response to MannyGoldstein (Reply #13)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 08:50 PM

WilliamPitt (54,469 posts)

16. ^^^ This ^^^

Reply to this post

Response to MannyGoldstein (Reply #13)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 08:52 PM

Summer Hathaway (1,777 posts)

18. I'd rather thank the Lord

for our extraordinarily intelligent and gifted President.

Reply to this post

Response to Summer Hathaway (Reply #18)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:29 PM

Solomon (8,956 posts)

73. This

Reply to this post

Response to Summer Hathaway (Reply #18)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 01:47 AM

Tarheel_Dem (16,647 posts)

169. Exactly. But, blind hatred doesn't allow some to acknowledge this^^^^!

Reply to this post

Response to Tarheel_Dem (Reply #169)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 02:04 AM

Summer Hathaway (1,777 posts)

171. What I find astounding

is how totally transparent the blind haters are, and don't seem to realize it. They wrap their vitriol in the 'outspoken concerned citizen' BS - and simply have NO clue as to how obvious they are.

Reply to this post

Response to Summer Hathaway (Reply #171)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 02:19 AM

Tarheel_Dem (16,647 posts)

175. I laugh at 'em. They are as comical as the teabaggers who call the president....

socialist, marxist, kenyan, muslim, blah...blah. Of course none of it's true, but they are wedded to their talking points, and stirring up hysteria. I think the technical term is Obama Derangement Syndrome, and it's not exclusive to the right.

Reply to this post

Response to Tarheel_Dem (Reply #175)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 03:42 AM

Summer Hathaway (1,777 posts)

183. Oh, I hear ya!

Lots of twisted knickers around here tonight. It's rather entertaining, actually.

Reply to this post

Response to MannyGoldstein (Reply #13)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 07:12 AM

joshcryer (39,749 posts)

200. I thought the Democrats were the enemy?

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 08:48 PM

Enrique (22,617 posts)

15. he is not a terrible negotiator

in fact he nearly always gets what he wants.

Reply to this post

Response to Enrique (Reply #15)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 01:02 AM

rhett o rick (26,702 posts)

166. I guess you are right if he didnt want single payer health insurance. nm

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 08:51 PM

madokie (36,577 posts)

17. I second that

Yes please proceed

Reply to this post

Response to madokie (Reply #17)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 02:08 AM

freshwest (31,430 posts)

172. For every OP like this, there are a half dozen saying it ain't good enough.

Earlier, it was 'Go over the cliff you cowardly liar/traitor, don't back down!'

Now it's 'We're going over the cliff because you're a cowardly liar/traitor!'

Wash, rinse, reverse, repeat.

I need to avoid the home page, even trash thread doesn't take the trash off of it.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 08:52 PM

forestpath (2,065 posts)

19. There was no need to put SS on the table and I don't trust him to not do it again.

Reply to this post

Response to forestpath (Reply #19)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 08:55 PM

JoePhilly (15,991 posts)

23. If Obama's plan is to cut SS, he SUCKS at it.

This is only his 9th or 10th chance to do it. Each time, DU bursts into flames predicting that its absolutely, positively, about to happen.

Then ... nothing.

Reply to this post

Response to JoePhilly (Reply #23)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:07 PM

Voice for Peace (8,394 posts)

38. I know! I was starting to get worried

because I wasn't feeling worried.. now I feel better.

Reply to this post

Response to Voice for Peace (Reply #38)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:55 PM

JoePhilly (15,991 posts)

95. And to be fair ...

Everytime DU has a "hair on fire" week or two on this topic ... its a great time to contact your representatives and make sure they know where you stand.

Personally, I think DU could help cause that regular drum beat of contact, without the breathlessness, or the claims that Obama has an evil plan to kill granny. I hated it when the Tea Party made that claim. Makes no more sense here on DU.

Reply to this post

Response to JoePhilly (Reply #23)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 10:48 PM

BlancheSplanchnik (7,705 posts)

123. well i was just freaking out on another thread. I admit it.

Last edited Thu Dec 20, 2012, 10:52 PM USA/ET - Edit history (1)

So I am REALLY glad to see this thread. Restores my faith. I read some panic threads and since I've been busy with other things lately, I haven't been watching Media very much.

It didn't seem possible--so out of character with how things have been going. So glad to read this and see the pattern continues. He speaks softly but carries a big stick. Just that every time he's speaking softly, we think THIS is it, he's caving. Hmmmm.

<------Dang it, I jumped to panicky conclusions without a clear understanding of latest stuff.

Reply to this post

Response to forestpath (Reply #19)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:07 PM

BlueJazz (17,763 posts)

40. The truly stupid thing about messing with SS is the people who receive it ...

...are reminded EVERY month who fucked with it....even in the last weeks before voting.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 08:53 PM

mcar (1,273 posts)

20. Proceed Speaker

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 08:53 PM

JoePhilly (15,991 posts)

21. Looks like Obama caved on caving.

This is about the 10th time Obama's evil plan to kill Social Security has failed after having been breathlessly predicted here on DU.

Reply to this post

Response to JoePhilly (Reply #21)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 08:54 PM

Whisp (17,184 posts)

22. Master Spelunker, that Obama. n/t

Reply to this post

Response to JoePhilly (Reply #21)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:08 PM

Liberal Veteran (20,369 posts)

43. I think it is fascinating on the fringes of both parties....

Our party believes he wants to destroy social programs.
Their party believes he wants to turn the US into an welfare state.

Reply to this post

Response to Liberal Veteran (Reply #43)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:12 PM

grantcart (38,741 posts)

51. ironically our fringe contiues a valued service in making the President look

'Centric'

Reply to this post

Response to grantcart (Reply #51)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:41 PM

JoePhilly (15,991 posts)

87. I'd say they make him look reasoned and thoughtful rather than simply ideological.

The right wing claims Obama is an ideological socialist commie, kenyan, blah blah blah.

Our fringe does a great job refuting the notion that he acts based on simple ideology.

The media likes to bring own pundits who will attack Obama from the left and the right. Prior to the election, that was acting to activate the GOP base, and to frustrate the Dem base ... with the media's goal being to keep the election "close".

Now that the election is over and Obama won. The media is unsure how to respond. So they stick with the one element they know works, sensationalism.

Fiscal Cliff .... AHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!

Obama and the Dems have had to manage this so that they remain as the reasonable ones, and trap the GOP. And it appears to be working.

Reply to this post

Response to grantcart (Reply #51)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 08:29 AM

Barack_America (24,436 posts)

211. Mmm hmm. Need to show in a hurry you're making concessions that piss off the left?

Why don't you just tap that third rail with a broomstick? Particularly if you know that specific area is down for service (i.e. that cliff negotiations are dead and Boehner is going to propose a "Plan B" that he won't have the votes for).

Obama has learned to use the internet and social media for more than just campaign solicitations. Now we at DU can count ourselves among his pawns.

Very clever.

Reply to this post

Response to Liberal Veteran (Reply #43)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:35 PM

JoePhilly (15,991 posts)

80. And both think he hates the middle class.

Reply to this post

Response to JoePhilly (Reply #21)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 11:26 PM

cui bono (7,459 posts)

138. He still offered it up.

The fact that everyone is so ready to be "right" about Obama, when they're really not, is really sad. I wish people could see what really happened. He put SS on the table. That was unheard of until Obama. That will never go away.

Reply to this post

Response to cui bono (Reply #138)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 02:02 AM

Hekate (21,221 posts)

170. You sure about that?

Just because a negotiator says you can put something on the table doesn't mean he actually means to do anything with it. "Show me what you got. Yeah, show me even that if it makes you feel better," all the while working only on what he, the negotiator, really wants to work with.

Reply to this post

Response to Hekate (Reply #170)

Sat Dec 22, 2012, 11:42 PM

cui bono (7,459 posts)

291. Jay Carney said that PBO put it in his proposal. At the Republican's request.

So yes, I'm as sure of it as Jay Carney is and if he's telling the press PBO did it I'll take it as having happened.

Reply to this post

Response to cui bono (Reply #138)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 08:30 AM

JoePhilly (15,991 posts)

212. BS.

Those programs exist. The GOP hates them. As a result, they are always on the table.

And didn't you know ... Obama put them on the table back when he created the debt commission. YUP, that's what I heard here on DU back then.

Then, he was absolutely going to announce cuts at the 2010 SOTU ... didn't happen. Was going to be in his 2010 budget, didn't happen. Was going to be in the 2011 budget ... was going to be in debt ceiling deal.

Each time, it has been predicted in an endless series of DU threads, each more certain than the last. Here it comes, any second.

And then ... nothing.

But its a great mechanism to manufacture outrage against Obama here on DU.

For awhile DADT predictions played a similar role here on DU. Endless predictions that Obama would never end it. The Social Security outrage is more effective however ... even if Obama never touches it, the outrage can repeat itself over and over with each fight between Obama and the GOP. And when the evil thing Obama wants to do doesn't happen, oh well ...

just cause it didn't happen, that doesn't mean that Obama doesn't really want to do it.

Its a perfect perceptual outrage machine. No matter how often it fails, just crank it up and it spits out more manufactured outrage widgets.

Reply to this post

Response to JoePhilly (Reply #212)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 12:15 PM

Scurrilous (24,650 posts)

246. ...

Reply to this post

Response to JoePhilly (Reply #212)

Sat Dec 22, 2012, 11:40 PM

cui bono (7,459 posts)

290. Talk about BS.

They've never been put on the table by a Dem until Obama. Not BS.

He offered them up at the Republican's request this round, as stated by Jay Carney. Not BS.

Reply to this post

Response to JoePhilly (Reply #212)

Mon Dec 24, 2012, 08:59 PM

appacom (169 posts)

303. Thanks

Reply to this post

Response to cui bono (Reply #138)

Sat Dec 22, 2012, 12:34 AM

Alfuso (3 posts)

281. Because he knew

It wouldn't survive the Senate.

Reply to this post

Response to Alfuso (Reply #281)

Sat Dec 22, 2012, 11:43 PM

cui bono (7,459 posts)

292. And now it is out there to be put on the table at any time.

What a sorry precedent that is. SS should NEVER be on the table, especially when it is put there by a Dem, which was unheard of until PBO.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 08:57 PM

Berserker (3,419 posts)

24. Thats why

S&P Futures tanked from 1441 to 1406 after hours tonight in a matter of minutes. Market makers have managed to get half of it back.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 08:57 PM

nolabear (14,710 posts)

25. It's the Mayan Gopocalypse!!

This train just keeps on wreckin'.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 08:59 PM

ProudProgressiveNow (3,239 posts)

26. K&R nt

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:01 PM

Agnosticsherbet (1,218 posts)

27. I think tht is more the fault with a limp Boehner in the Speaker's chair than Obama.

The House can not pass a bill, so nothing is getting done.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:02 PM

Recursion (25,500 posts)

28. Obama has been capable of counting to 218 at least since 2nd grade

I'm sure he's been doing that this whole time.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:03 PM

Iggy (1,418 posts)

29. HUH? Because the Teabagger Mob in the House

can't be controlled by Boehner, and they will NOT accept ANY raise in taxes (particularly for their wealthy masters) that means Obama is a GREAT negotiator??

Hah hah hahhhh!!

frankly, let's go over the fiscal bluff at this point; and get some actual cuts to our bloated defense budget in the process-- since obviously that is the only way its going to get cut.

Reply to this post

Response to Iggy (Reply #29)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:06 PM

WilliamPitt (54,469 posts)

32. They knew exactly who they were talking to.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Reply #32)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 11:31 PM

cui bono (7,459 posts)

145. Nope, sorry. You just don't put SS on the table as a Dem. You just don't.

Unless you're Obama and then you can have a "Dem" message board behind you all the way while you stand up for Wall Street and make the little people pay for their excesses.

Reply to this post

Response to cui bono (Reply #145)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 08:46 AM

byeya (1,959 posts)

216. Agree with you and the real Democrats were livid the SS system was put into play.

Nancy Pelosi came out of this weakened because for some reason she thought she had to defend Obama's using Social Security as a bargaining chip.

Reply to this post

Response to Iggy (Reply #29)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:08 PM

Recursion (25,500 posts)

42. Yes, counting to 218 passes for good negotiation. It's something most on DU seem incapable of.

So I might be a little slower to criticize.

That said, since we're part of the "noise on the left" that is part of the game, it's probably good that we keep doing what we do.

Reply to this post

Response to Recursion (Reply #42)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:18 PM

Iggy (1,418 posts)

56. I Intend to Continue..

if only to counter the utter bogusness in "progressive" Bloggo world, i.e. our government is actually working/functional.

Twenty little kids just got their brains blown out by a well armed madman, AT THEIR SCHOOL.

That, plus the numerous other revolting rampage killings, is just a small portion of the proof our government is a gigantic, epic level failure.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:05 PM

Control-Z (8,286 posts)

30. I'm sorely tempted

to go back to a thread or two and do a little told-you-so dance. But I'm just so grateful Barack Obama is our president and that I'm not a republican. That's enough for me. I almost feel sorry for Boehner. Almost.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:05 PM

NashvilleLefty (811 posts)

31. Are you implying that he knew this would happen?

I mean, who could ever have predicted this?

Besides everyone, I mean.

Reply to this post

Response to NashvilleLefty (Reply #31)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:15 PM

Recursion (25,500 posts)

54. But... but... counting to 218 takes such incredible skills...

only 75% of 2nd graders can do it...

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:06 PM

riqster (4,140 posts)

33. The Prexy plays rope-a-dope

And he gets as many punches from DU as he does from the Admiral Akbar and Chicken Little Brigades as he does from the Reeps. More maybe.

Reply to this post

Response to riqster (Reply #33)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 04:58 AM

amandabeech (8,298 posts)

188. If he didn't put a gradual defunding of the program that has kept older Americans alive

since the 1930s, he would have many fewer problems here.

I am incredibly disappointed in him and you.

Reply to this post

Response to amandabeech (Reply #188)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 08:13 AM

riqster (4,140 posts)

208. I trust him. You, apparently, do not.

We will all have to wait and see if our feelings are borne out by the actual results.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:06 PM

sheshe2 (4,839 posts)

36. It's time to say good bye to the Orange man!

Last edited Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:07 PM USA/ET - Edit history (1)

Bye John...we knew you well!

image sharing

You Sniveling Gasbag!

Thanks for the post Will!

Reply to this post

Response to sheshe2 (Reply #36)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:09 PM

Voice for Peace (8,394 posts)

45. but Cantor will be a new smarmy horror

if he gets the Speakership. He sure looked smiley today.

Reply to this post

Response to Voice for Peace (Reply #45)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:22 PM

sheshe2 (4,839 posts)

63. I know...

However one down...so many to go!

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:08 PM

OldDem2012 (3,526 posts)

41. Damn right! But, mark my words, this will not quiet Obama's DU critics. nt.

Reply to this post

Response to OldDem2012 (Reply #41)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:11 PM

Liberal Veteran (20,369 posts)

49. I still haven't received my pony.

Reply to this post

Response to OldDem2012 (Reply #41)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:23 PM

Surya Gayatri (4,205 posts)

65. Of course not--PBO's real world actions in one sense

or another have nothing to do with the underlying animus towards him.

The Prez deserves everything he gets just because... because of whatever "cause célèbre" happens to be chapping their asses that day or week.

Reply to this post

Response to OldDem2012 (Reply #41)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 10:09 PM

AnotherMcIntosh (7,540 posts)

103. Nor will it dissuade him from his efforts to cut SS which has nothing to do with the deficit.

Reply to this post

Response to OldDem2012 (Reply #41)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 06:06 AM

leeroysphitz (9,686 posts)

193. Nor should it. n/t

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:09 PM

grantcart (38,741 posts)

46. turn on CNBC and listen to every conservative lambast Boehner

Its like they are a bunch of 9 year old boys and the President sent them boxes of matches and gallons of kerosene and everybody is shocked that there is a fire.

Reply to this post

Response to grantcart (Reply #46)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 10:11 PM

sheshe2 (4,839 posts)

106. Spontaneous Combustion!

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:10 PM

WillyT (45,573 posts)

47. Ah... 3 Dimensional Chess... What A Game... Remember How We Fooled 'Em Into The Public Option ???

Cause I don't.

Reply to this post

Response to WillyT (Reply #47)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:26 PM

Gregorian (19,609 posts)

69. I hate to say it, but I saw this coming. I did not comment on the doom threads, as bad as it looked.

I just knew Obama knew what he knew. Which was... god only knows.

These guys are on their game. And all I can do is watch with confidence.

Reply to this post

Response to Gregorian (Reply #69)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:32 PM

WillyT (45,573 posts)

77. I Have Always Said That I Hope I Am Wrong About My Suspicions...

And I TRULY hope I am wrong now.

Reply to this post

Response to WillyT (Reply #77)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 10:25 PM

Overseas (10,861 posts)

112. And we're supposed to raise a massive public outcry against bad ideas. If we don't speak up,

legislators may assume we don't know that a Chained CPI is a significant cut.

We need to show that there is very widespread opposition to cruel cuts like that.

Reply to this post

Response to WillyT (Reply #77)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 02:00 PM

MjolnirTime (1,323 posts)

255. and yet you jump to the absolute worst conclusion at the drop of a hat.

You just cannot separate your personal animosity for Obama from your political calculation.

Reply to this post

Response to MjolnirTime (Reply #255)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 06:19 PM

WillyT (45,573 posts)

268. LOL !!! I Have NO Personal Animosity For Obama...

I think he intelligent, witty, and charming. As are his wife and kids.

And I voted for the guy.

My animus, is with HIS political calculations.

Reply to this post

Response to WillyT (Reply #268)

Tue Dec 25, 2012, 02:07 PM

MjolnirTime (1,323 posts)

304. you act like you haven't been posting the same crap around here for years.

Reply to this post

Response to MjolnirTime (Reply #304)

Tue Dec 25, 2012, 06:01 PM

WillyT (45,573 posts)

305. Said The Guy Who Got Here, Thu Oct 13, 2011, 04:11 AM

Sorry you're so hurt.

Are you gonna be alright, honey ???

Reply to this post

Response to WillyT (Reply #305)

Thu Dec 27, 2012, 02:35 AM

MjolnirTime (1,323 posts)

308. You guys always get pissed when someone actually recalls what you have been doing. Why is that?

Reply to this post

Response to WillyT (Reply #47)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 08:05 AM

GreenPartyVoter (64,722 posts)

206. Ditto. What if the GOP had actually gone for it this time? What then?

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:10 PM

TheProgressive (426 posts)

48. Regarding the chained CPI....As a Democrat, you never offer to cut Social Security

There is simply *no* reason to put this c-cpi on the table. It does nothing to help the deficit. It is our money.
All this c-cpi does is reduce the amount of earned benefits that the 'kings' deem fit. Like - here take this and shut up.

Why would Obama and Pelosi want to do this?...unless they want to start the beginning on the end of Social Security.

Reply to this post

Response to TheProgressive (Reply #48)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:17 PM

OldDem2012 (3,526 posts)

55. They knew the GOP couldn't accept the chained-CPI option because the GOP is never going....

....to publicly agree to eliminate the tax cuts for the wealthy.

The GOP has been proven once again to have no regard for what's left of the middle class and the growing poor. This will be a major factor for the 2014 midterms.

Reply to this post

Response to OldDem2012 (Reply #55)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:22 PM

TheProgressive (426 posts)

62. Then, there was no reason at all for Obama to 'put it on the table'...

...unless he was willing to go forward with the cut.

Reply to this post

Response to TheProgressive (Reply #62)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:47 PM

OldDem2012 (3,526 posts)

91. I don't recall that the President ever personally put chained CPI on the table....

...even though there was a lot of talk that he did, to include a remark or two from Carney. But, there was never a direct quote from the President himself.

The chained CPI deal was put on the table to make the GOP leadership look even more unreasonable than they have been before. The Republican rank and file nationwide will question why their Congressional leaders failed to take this deal since the dismantling of Social Security has been a major GOP issue. They will begin to realize even more strongly that their leaders are only interested in protecting the Top 2%.

Politics at this level is an infinite series of games within games. To date, the President has won most, if not all of them. This will be a major positive factor for the Dems during the 2014 midterms.

Reply to this post

Response to OldDem2012 (Reply #91)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:56 PM

TheProgressive (426 posts)

97. No offense, but it is naive to think Obama did not put it on the table...

So, Carney just can lie? Make shit up and everyone is good with that?

I will repeat - the c-cpi is not so 'heavy' as to sway the republicans. What it is, however,
a signal from Obama that he is willing to cut Social Security.

You all ever think that the '3-dim chess' is against *you* (read *us*).

The Democratic Party is the party of the people - how about keeping it that way.

Reply to this post

Response to TheProgressive (Reply #97)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 10:05 PM

OldDem2012 (3,526 posts)

101. How about thinking Presidential-level politics is a lot more complex than you evidently believe? nt

Reply to this post

Response to OldDem2012 (Reply #101)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 10:10 PM

TheProgressive (426 posts)

105. I won;t get into a pissing contest with you - you put something on the table then,

you are willing to lose it. Or Use it.

Tell me why Pelosi is all ok with reducing the COLA for seniors...

Really. What is $15B a year compared to the war bill allocating $85B for one year.

Reality is something people should embrace.

Reply to this post

Response to TheProgressive (Reply #105)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 10:48 PM

OldDem2012 (3,526 posts)

124. People say a lot of things in public but very little of it actually becomes reality....

...until then, I embrace nothing.

Reply to this post

Response to OldDem2012 (Reply #124)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 11:28 PM

cui bono (7,459 posts)

141. At that point it will be too late.

And you will have less left to embrace.

Reply to this post

Response to TheProgressive (Reply #97)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 11:29 PM

cui bono (7,459 posts)

142. The person you are having an exchange with does not believe that Carney

speaks for the POTUS.

Reply to this post

Response to OldDem2012 (Reply #91)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 06:49 AM

HiPointDem (16,944 posts)

196. pelosi herself called it "the president's plan"

Reply to this post

Response to TheProgressive (Reply #48)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 11:27 PM

cui bono (7,459 posts)

139. Exactly! +1

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:12 PM

liberalmuse (15,420 posts)

50. I said as much yesterday.

I'm a shitty gambler, but for some reason, when I bet on Obama, even through frustration, I win. We all win. Because every single time I want to criticize him, and I've come real close, I remember that the guy has this uncanny way of pulling through. It's not just 3 dimensional chess. Our President has a helluva lot of goodwill and karma on his side - or luck. Whatever you want to call it. The guy knew this would happen. He KNEW the Republicans would not be able to muster up the votes. Now President Obama looks like he bent over backwards in good faith, and the Republicans look like a bunch of douche nozzles. And I can almost hear the splash of rats jumping the GOP ship.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:18 PM

melody (12,123 posts)

57. Our President plays 3 Dimensional Chess

He's kicking ass and taking names, yet again.

Reply to this post

Response to melody (Reply #57)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 11:32 PM

cui bono (7,459 posts)

146. Oh gawd...

Reply to this post

Response to cui bono (Reply #146)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 12:25 AM

melody (12,123 posts)

158. This was supposed to be a disputing argument?

I thought we could do better in here than silly smiley things. If you don't understand the assertion, just say so. I can explain.

Reply to this post

Response to cui bono (Reply #146)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 10:25 AM

melody (12,123 posts)

229. I love that my cogent reply was removed, but yours was allowed to remain.

I asked "was that supposed to be a disputing argument"? That's somehow ruder than "oh gawd" with weird eyes?

Reply to this post

Response to melody (Reply #57)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 08:40 AM

Jester Messiah (1,808 posts)

215. His opponents were playing Candyland.

Unfortunately they've now had a little episode and overturned the board.

Reply to this post

Response to Jester Messiah (Reply #215)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 10:26 AM

melody (12,123 posts)

230. Yup, pouting in the corner n/t

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:21 PM

dsc (39,379 posts)

59. that is like saying that whomever plays the Chiefs on a given Sunday knows how to play football

what we can thank God for is that as bad a deal as Obama offered those fools didn't take it.

Reply to this post

Response to dsc (Reply #59)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:29 PM

WilliamPitt (54,469 posts)

74. Hm...

Maybe he offered it...

Because he knew they couldn't take it...

Given who and what they are...

And now he's the guy who put SS up for parley, only to have it rejected...

...by assholes.

I think the safety net is safe in the hands of this administration.

High-stakes poker is not for everyone.

^^^^vvvv Clearly. vvvv^^^^

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Reply #74)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:44 PM

alcibiades_mystery (28,406 posts)

88. They couldn't agree to their own speaker's $1 million tax hike; of course $400,000 was impossible

Last edited Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:44 PM USA/ET - Edit history (1)

Boehner made it a tax hike on $1 million or more, and even got Norquist to bless a tax hike. For all those experts at spotting caving, let me repeat that: Grover Norquist blessed a tax rate hike! Ok, you maybe didn't hear me: Grover Norquist told the GOP it would be OK to vote for a tax rate hike over $1,000,000.

And they still turned it down!

Their own proposal. They voted to cut food stamps and the child tax credit and kick 300,000 kids of nutrition programs, but could not bring themselves to vote for a tax rate hike over $1,000,000, even though Grover Norquist completely caved and blessed a tax hike!

Maybe he offered it...

Because he knew they couldn't take it...

There's much more evidence for that then there is for any other theory.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Reply #74)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 11:12 PM

solara (2,740 posts)

136. Clearly

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Reply #74)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 11:46 PM

juajen (7,892 posts)

152. Yeah, Will. I am a good bluffer. When I can remember how, I love to play poker.

Reply to this post

Response to dsc (Reply #59)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 01:58 PM

Jamaal510 (3,159 posts)

253. Go Raiders

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:21 PM

loyalkydem (1,678 posts)

60. The President plays chess while we all whine moan and complain about him caving

Reply to this post

Response to loyalkydem (Reply #60)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 12:26 AM

melody (12,123 posts)

159. Well put. n/t

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:22 PM

stupidicus (465 posts)

61. sure, he's just been yanking the chains of seniors, people that care about them

the members of congress that wanted the social programs off the table, the unions, etc, etc, etc, with something he never had any intentions of ever actually agreeing to.

At best that's a wreckless game of chicken that subjected millions to needless stress and anxiety, and particularly given any need for it would have dissolved on the way down the side of the rocky cliff anyway.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:23 PM

Dyedinthewoolliberal (6,457 posts)

66. You know,

I try not to use the "I told you so" tactic on people, but I'm fighting the urge to look at my past posts, find those who were ready to a) abandon ship b) disparage the President c) concede the country to the Right etc , sorta get on my case when I encouraged them to relax , this is how bargaining and negotiating is done and say in big bolded letters
"NYAH NONNA NYAH NYAH, TOLD YOU HE WOULD HANDLE IT"

But I wont............

Reply to this post

Response to Dyedinthewoolliberal (Reply #66)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 02:14 AM

Hekate (21,221 posts)

174. I agree with you: it would be so ungracious

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:24 PM

DemoTex (21,988 posts)

67. Obama: Wiser than a tree full of owls.

As my late pappy would say.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:27 PM

Loudestlib (135 posts)

70. I avoid DU when the Obama bashers are on a rage

These people make it hard to have any serious discussions. One day, some of these guys are going to come out as Freepers.

Reply to this post

Response to Loudestlib (Reply #70)

Sat Dec 22, 2012, 10:52 AM

Kahuna (26,403 posts)

286. Ditto.. This place has been very appealing for me the past few days.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:27 PM

flamingdem (22,687 posts)

71. K&R

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:28 PM

BarackTheVote (560 posts)

72. So...

Given if nothing gets passed, we get deep cuts to military spending and an end to the Bush Tax Cuts... Obama comes to the negotiating table as a show of "good faith" and offers up a sacred cow along with a proposed tax increase. GOP turns it down because of their ridiculous allegiance to Norquist. Obama shrugs and says, "hey, I tried." And over the cliff we go. There will be a tax cut for the middle class, and Republican sacred cows drop dead. I like it...

BUT... this is also happening in the public eye, and a lot of people, I don't think, are clever enough to get it (if... that's actually what the tactic was...) Fingers crossed, but, damn, I'm gonna have cold sweats all through the midterms.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

PragmaticLiberal This message was self-deleted by its author.

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:31 PM

Lone_Star_Dem (27,588 posts)

76. I am always willing to do a happy dance at a Republican fail.

Last edited Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:33 PM USA/ET - Edit history (1)

It would appear our president knew the Republican congress was immovable on the tax cuts, even at the tune of one million dollars, and called their bluff by putting such an offer as he did on the table.

We have the added bonus of having done a nice job of showing, and being educated in, the regressiveness of a chained CPI.

So, what comes next? Other than the public shaming of Boehner, that is.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:34 PM

Mockingjay (29 posts)

78. yes proceed..

President Obama knows when he sees a bunch of DUMBASSES.......

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:35 PM

CranialRectaLoopback (123 posts)

81. Eleventy-dimensional chess ... Not the good way

Of course the President knew the Speaker would fail. So why did the President propose what he proposed? I believe he was signaling to Republicans where he is willing to go after the nation steps off the curb.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:36 PM

arcane1 (19,965 posts)

83. And just a week or two ago, the Senate repubs had to veto their own bill

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:38 PM

OkieLib41 (6 posts)

85. I'm rather new here but.....

What if the GOP would've taken the Presidents proposal? Because I'm not understanding why you would play chicken with changing the CPI to SS even if was a bluff. I've played poker enough to know that if I have the stronger hand I don't bluff myself into a potential worse outcome.

Reply to this post

Response to OkieLib41 (Reply #85)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:47 PM

CranialRectaLoopback (123 posts)

90. Not chicken, but follow the leader

The President is signaling to the Republicans where he is willing to go after the nation steps off the curb

Reply to this post

Response to CranialRectaLoopback (Reply #90)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 10:03 PM

OldDem2012 (3,526 posts)

100. Right. Good luck with that train of thought. nt.

Reply to this post

Response to OldDem2012 (Reply #100)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 11:30 PM

CranialRectaLoopback (123 posts)

143. I will enjoy serving you crow, my friend

And will have no problem eating crow, if circumstances demand it.

Reply to this post

Response to OkieLib41 (Reply #85)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:48 PM

WilliamPitt (54,469 posts)

92. They couldn't.

Which is why it was offered.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Reply #92)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 10:09 PM

GeorgeGist (9,540 posts)

104. That's sounds childish.

But you may be correct.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Reply #92)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 11:34 PM

cui bono (7,459 posts)

147. And it was a stupid offer.

That will have repercussions even though it was not snapped up.

Reply to this post

Response to OkieLib41 (Reply #85)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 10:01 PM

OldDem2012 (3,526 posts)

99. The GOP is not about to publicly agree to eliminating the massive tax cuts to their....

....prime benefactors. They will never willingly do that in a million years, and the President knew that. He called the House Republicans' bluff and walked away the clear winner.

The GOP will now have to deal with the so-called "fiscal cliff", a cliff they seem powerless to avoid and for which they will be blamed by a large majority of Americans.

Reply to this post

Response to OkieLib41 (Reply #85)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 11:34 PM

cui bono (7,459 posts)

148. You are exaclty right.

Welcome to DU.

Reply to this post

Response to OkieLib41 (Reply #85)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 01:01 AM

DearHeart (672 posts)

165. Excellent point!! Welcome to DU!!! nt

Reply to this post

Response to OkieLib41 (Reply #85)

Sat Dec 29, 2012, 02:12 AM

Marr (13,669 posts)

323. They could have, and it would've likely slid right into being policy.

These people who are claiming the GOP could not accept the offer and that Obama built a brilliant strategy around that fact are deluding themselves.

The only thing Democrats could even be said to gain from the offer is that, in refusing it, the GOP looked irrational and recalcitrant. Well, so what? They've been looking irrational and recalcitrant for years. They've built their brand around that attitude. And what could we have lost? We could've had Social Security cuts.

I don't buy for one second that this was some kind of brilliant, 'rope-a-dope' a strategy. I think it was exactly what it looked like; a "New Democrat" White House offering a bit of policy that the Third Way has been openly pushing for years. The fact that the Republicans are paralyzed by their own psychotic wing doesn't change that.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 09:51 PM

kimbutgar (817 posts)

93. I read somewhere that he is a good poker playing maybe he was bluffing

He knows boehner lost control of his caucus. Cantor is stabbing him in the back.

Reply to this post

Response to kimbutgar (Reply #93)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 10:29 PM

coalition_unwilling (14,180 posts)

113. Boner tried to draw to an inside straight. Oops! ROTFLMAO! - n/t

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 10:07 PM

babylonsister (144,165 posts)

102. No shit. Thank you, Will. And for those naysayers, where's the

finger emoticon? I'm sorry, it got old.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 10:18 PM

MessiahRp (5,404 posts)

109. You had better hope they don't end up taking anything similar to Obama's original offer

Or you're going to be stuck eating a crow the size of 3 Thanksgiving turkeys.

I still don't think we're out of the water yet RE: SS/Medicare cuts.

Obama has shown a propensity to cave to the other side in negotiations and give them more than they could ever hope for even if he doesn't really have to. The HCR bill showed he's not the best at understanding the enemy. He figures if he gives them the farm they want they'll be happy but then they decide they want the farm animals, the equipment and the neighbors farms too... and often times he bends over backwards to give them just that even if he only squeezes a tiny amount of votes out of them.

This time around will likely be no different. This wasn't a one time negotiation. Remember he put Simpson/Bowles in charge and seemed interested in their kill SS conclusions. I don't think that they put Chained CPI in there just to bluff the GOP. I think they truly want that cut. I feel like, as per the usual, Obama's team cares more about looking like they are moderates, ie willing to poke liberals in the eye, to try to win over the media and conservatives that they think are holding out but amenable to liking him.

It's a fool's errand really. Clinton also was dumb as shit about wanting the other side to like him and sacrificed us time and time again giving the GOP the very deregulations that Bush would use to cripple us with.

Sorry if I don't trust Obama. He spent 2008 talking like and campaigning as a liberal. Then he got into office and became better than the GOP could have imagined PLUS they got to campaign against the very ideas they really didn't mind much (because ultimately most of his policies benefited their corporate benefactors). I voted for him. I went strong as hell against Romney in every convo I could but he has never shown a particularly strong penchant for doing the right thing for the people without caving to the GOP and their masters in some way or another.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 10:19 PM

MotherPetrie (1,864 posts)

110. I don't get where Boehner's failure = Obama's success

They are completely unrelated. Obama still wants a deal with Republicans.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 10:30 PM

Autumn (11,297 posts)

114. I don't know the first thing about poker, but I sure am glad boner

couldn't hold his party together.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 10:30 PM

Historic NY (19,723 posts)

115. Its the freaking anxiety.....

were going to need automatic valium dispensers from DU central.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 10:31 PM

ailsagirl (9,583 posts)

116. Egads-- remember when Archie Bunker and his BS was a joke???

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 10:32 PM

Bonobo (20,524 posts)

117. Next year Repubs: "Obama himself offered to it..."

The issue of cuts to SS is now squarely ON the table for now and forever.

It was off-limits and now it is not.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 10:32 PM

Canuckistanian (42,195 posts)

118. They're dead. Dead, dead, dead.

They have nothing now. They can't be taken seriously any more.

Off the cliff we go, knowing we weren't the ones driving the bus.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 10:38 PM

TheKentuckian (17,391 posts)

119. We "won" what exactly? We shrewdly got what saying sit and spin would have from the last shit deal

that shouldn't have been made and further reinforced the concept that we need to cut the safety net, and another "high stakes game" in a few months.

THERE HAS BEEN NO POSSIBILITY OF WINNING JACK SHIT SINCE WE ACCEPTED THE CORPORATE PREMISE.

Yay! The TeaPubliKlans can't say yes to a bad deal so we'll take the previous debacle and crow about military cuts and a tax plan we failed to oppose vigorously enough that they didn't have the votes for that should have sunset years ago!

Do you not get that cutting demand when we have nowhere near enough isn't grand?

Yay, we arguable got the less poison pill for today and that is okay but masterful negotiation, it isn't. The same results could be had without negotiating at all.

Now get those crying about the "cliff" in defense herded back up and get back to cheering its coming.

We when nothing by continuously putting the safety net on the table. Please shut it with the "Obama looks reasonable" horseshit, he looks like a duplicitous, asshole sellout. He isn't impressing anybody that can't stop tripping over their tongues in admiration anyway and a few asshole "centrists" that are going to vote for him anyway while praying and preaching for "Hillary45".

There are no good outcomes, worse off than before but not as bad as it could be isn't masterful, it sucks. We never had to be here and sticking with the game plan and worse, pretending it is working for we the people, is crazy.

There is nothing to gain, therefore what you think is clever gamesmanship is despicable and inherently feeds an environment that can only be counterproductive to advancement. Doing something stupid and cruel in the wisest way possible is not praiseworthy in my eyes. The whole effort must be put to a stop not cheered, no matter what the style. You think the people are winning? What the hell is the game? What the fuck do we win?

Reply to this post

Response to TheKentuckian (Reply #119)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 11:08 PM

dionysus (22,257 posts)

133. .

Reply to this post

Response to dionysus (Reply #133)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 01:47 PM

TheKentuckian (17,391 posts)

250. Did the American people get music lessons? Is that what your response means?

Reply to this post

Response to TheKentuckian (Reply #119)

Sun Dec 23, 2012, 08:37 AM

BigBearJohn (8,215 posts)

295. BRAVO. If there are more like you in Kentucky, I'm moving there! AMAZING response. Wish I said that.

Reply to this post

Response to BigBearJohn (Reply #295)

Mon Dec 24, 2012, 10:14 AM

freedom fighter jh (887 posts)

299. Ditto nt

Reply to this post

Response to BigBearJohn (Reply #295)

Thu Dec 27, 2012, 09:22 AM

TheKentuckian (17,391 posts)

309. We could use more, come on down.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 10:41 PM

Politicub (5,853 posts)

120. It was a thing of beauty

And bo honer sounded insane with the tax increase for $1+ million earners. He's a caricature of himself.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 10:43 PM

Gman (21,168 posts)

121. Too many here have always thought the worst of Obama first

for whatever messed up reasons.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 10:51 PM

woo me with science (19,570 posts)

125. And this post exemplifies how fucked our party's compass is.

Last edited Thu Dec 20, 2012, 10:57 PM USA/ET - Edit history (9)

after years now of Third Way propaganda.

Signing on to austerity packages is not a victory. Going over the cliff is the best we can hope for now, but it is still a decided loss. Even if we go over the cliff, we are stuck with triggered budget slashing that Obama is fully responsible for, because he chose to validate the Shock Doctrine scam debt ceiling "crisis" last year. We should not be imposing austerity at all during this economy.

If the Democratic Party wants to claim a victory, it will not happen until AFTER this debacle, IF the party makes a decision to go back to what truly defines a victory: passionate advocacy for and action toward legislation that actually HELPS people and holds bankers accountable.

How propaganda works to change our expectations of the Democratic Party
http://www.democraticunderground.com/10022033331

They need to give us something that really helps, not expect praise for subjecting us to one of the less painful of the various austerity options they have put into place.

One of the most destructive aspects of this whole debt debacle, ever since it started, has been the unconscionable decision by our Democratic President and corporate Democrats in Congress to validate the right-wing narrative and framing of what is wrong with our economy and what needs to happen to fix it.

Our Democrats had from Day One of this Presidency to correct the lies about austerity and change the narrative. They chose instead to play along.

What used to be understood as REPUBLICAN lies and talking points about the economy and the deficit were transformed into a devastating NATIONAL, BIPARTISAN narrative about the need for austerity that we now have to fight against every single day.

Every single time Democrats reinforce this narrative, it is damaging to the country.

Obama has his entire second term to start giving us some real wins, but this isn't one of them. We need to remind him, and apparently some of ourselves, what a win truly means, and what we should be demanding from our party.

Reply to this post

Response to woo me with science (Reply #125)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 11:38 PM

cui bono (7,459 posts)

149. Thank you!

And from now on no one will bat an eye when cuts to SS and Medicare are brought up by either party since the DEM party put it on the table, more than once now.

Sheesh. And people wonder why the Dems are now center and the Repubs are now extreme right.

Obama puts Wall Street in the WH and he's still the Dem hero who can do no wrong and plays multidimensional chess.

Reply to this post

Response to woo me with science (Reply #125)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 12:01 AM

Bonobo (20,524 posts)

154. This is SUCH a great post. I wish I could pin it to DU forever. PLEASE make an OP of it. nt

Reply to this post

Response to Bonobo (Reply #154)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 12:03 AM

woo me with science (19,570 posts)

156. Done

(close, anyway): http://www.democraticunderground.com/10022044415

Thanks.

Reply to this post

Response to woo me with science (Reply #125)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 08:53 AM

deutsey (16,802 posts)

217. The Dems have been cheering Pyhrric victories at least since Clinton n/t

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 10:56 PM

MFrohike (494 posts)

126. And?

Why celebrate? The path has been cleared for a man who worships at the altar of deficit hawk quackery. The deficit hawks are ALWAYS wrong, but we're supposed to celebrate the "win" of a man who is proudly one of them? That reeks of the worst kind of sports boosterism. If your team wins in the process of screwing you, I have to wonder exactly what it is that you "won."

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 11:00 PM

byronius (2,630 posts)

128. K&R.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 11:01 PM

juajen (7,892 posts)

129. sometimes, good things come to those who wait.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 11:06 PM

DonCoquixote (5,630 posts)

132. I am the first to defend Obama

Last edited Thu Dec 20, 2012, 11:08 PM USA/ET - Edit history (1)

However, this was a gamble he took that was not needed, because, we never know if Wall Street will get a clue and say "Dammit, vote for this or we put a damned horse's head in your bed!"

Plus, Obama is great under pressure, pressure WE supply, he and the GOP need to know that no, we will not take this lying down, so the GOP will see our antics and go "Obama may have bought that, but we know his party won't" and Obama can go "See Joehn, look what you did, you GOP fools ruined it, again. (as he smirks like Lucy pulling the football away from the GOP.)

Let's chalk Plan B up to "Good work with the letters team, now let's keep the pressure up!"

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 11:09 PM

customerserviceguy (14,711 posts)

134. I see this more as Boner's weakness than as Obama's strength

In any case, it weakens their negotiating position, which means they won't negotiate.

We're going over the cliff in a barrel, hope all of you have enough security to get through it.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 11:10 PM

1StrongBlackMan (5,386 posts)

135. So DU is ...

Back on President Obama's side again?

Reply to this post

Response to 1StrongBlackMan (Reply #135)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 11:46 PM

cui bono (7,459 posts)

151. It's not about being on Obama's side or not.

It's about being on the people's side or not and whether or not Obama is on the people's side. So far, not that much.

No offense, but your response is the main thing that's wrong with this board. Thinking it's about whether or not someone is for or against Obama and taking it personally rather than it being about the issues and policies he is supporting and pushing for. If you make it about Obama himself you are always going to be upset when someone criticizes him, hence the squabbles and posts like yours and many others in this thread.

If GWB had done what Obama just did EVERYONE on this board would have been livid. If GWB was doing the drone strikes Obama does EVERYONE on this board would be livid. etc... etc... etc...

But people have gotten into this place where they can't seem to separate the man from his actions and that is not good for the Dem party, since his actions are hurting our party and our democracy. At a time when we needed to fight back against corporate America and the banksters he has embraced them and given them a key to the WH. He had so much political capital when he was first elected and everyone was sick of GWB and the whole mess was GWB's fault and he squandered it. Or did he just do what he always wanted or had to since he is so cozy with Wall Street?

Reply to this post

Response to cui bono (Reply #151)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 12:02 AM

1StrongBlackMan (5,386 posts)

155. No offense but ...

for you to say that President Obama has NOT been on the side of the people is B.S. Just about every move President Obama has made proves it ... except to those that don't want to see it.

People need to realize that in a democratic republic, such as our's, governance is all about compromise ... a progress comes through slow advances.

Reply to this post

Response to 1StrongBlackMan (Reply #155)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 12:11 AM

cui bono (7,459 posts)

157. so cutting SS is being on the people's side?

Expanding warrantless wiretapping is being on the people's side?

Drone attacks is being on the people's side?

Saying it is okay to execute American citizens is being on the people's side?

Having back room deals with big pharma and "health" insurance companies and lying to the people about them is being on the people's side?

Tossing out the public option without even trying for it is being on the people's side?

Putting Wall Street in his administration is being on the people's side?

Not coming down hard on the banksters with tough regulations and investigations and indictments but allowing fraudulent foreclosures to continue is being on the people's side?

Sure he's done some good things and I've defended him on those, but don't kid yourself. He's very much on Wall Street's side. You just don't want to see it.

Reply to this post

Response to cui bono (Reply #157)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 02:26 AM

Tarheel_Dem (16,647 posts)

179. And given all that, he's at damn near 60% job approval. Go figure.....

Perhaps the party left you behind?

"When asked about their ideology, Democrats were twice as likely to be “moderate” as Republicans 32/16. 20% of Democrats said they were “very liberal” to 39% of GOP respondents who were “very conservative”. "

http://www.democraticunderground.com/?com=view_post&forum=1251&pid=259631

Reply to this post

Response to Tarheel_Dem (Reply #179)

Thu Dec 27, 2012, 09:30 PM

cui bono (7,459 posts)

315. Because the general public was relieved to get a Dem to replace GWB

and never in their wildest dreams did they suspect that PBO might continue GWB policies and go even further with them. They figured they were safe from the right wing/corporate raiding of working people's money so they stopped paying attention. They just think everything is fine, they don't know what PBO is actually enacting and proposing. Most people don't pay attention to the day to day goings on of DC. They just know we have an intelligent and articulate president now so they've tuned out thinking we were in good hands.

And since you bring up polls, why is PBO offering up SS when polls show beyond a doubt that the people don't want it cut.

So back to my original question that you never actually answered. Is cutting SS being on the people's side? Is that what you want? Or has the party left you behind?

Reply to this post

Response to cui bono (Reply #315)

Thu Dec 27, 2012, 10:28 PM

Tarheel_Dem (16,647 posts)

317. No one is "cutting SS". Oh, the drama!

Now, I have a question for you since you reached all the way back to GWB. If the people disapproved of the president's policies, why did they RE-elect him? You remember? That just happened. We're not talking about 4 years ago, we're talking about days ago. Your entire thesis makes absolutely no sense, and your disjointed ranting somehow seems out of place?

Reply to this post

Response to Tarheel_Dem (Reply #317)

Thu Dec 27, 2012, 11:50 PM

cui bono (7,459 posts)

319. New question then maybe you'll answer the original one and others in that list.

How do you know no one is cutting SS? Obama put it on the table. Do you have the inside scoop? Did he retract the offer?

Obama was re-elected because everyone knows Romney would be thousands times worse.

And you seem to not have read my post because you didn't address it at all. And your comment about reaching back to GWB makes it sound as if there was no reason to do so.

Please reread my comments, if you don't understand them go ahead and let me know what confuses you and I'll make it simpler. I don't like to post things like this but you never address issues and always post things that are an attempt to insult me, so fire with fire I suppose.

If you care to actually talk about issues without making your snide comments I will retract the above paragraph and we can start anew. If you do care to do that, can you please tell me how all those things that Obama has done (which is not reaching back to GWB except to say that if he had done them every single Dem on this board would have loudly objected - so your comment saying my thesis makes no sense is incorrect and also doesn't explain why it makes no sense, so if you can explain why, do it, don't just say it makes no sense) are acting on behalf of the people? You haven't answered that yet and that was the post you responded to originally. If we're going to discuss this then let's do it and let's do it in a logical manner.

Reply to this post

Response to cui bono (Reply #319)

Fri Dec 28, 2012, 12:47 AM

Tarheel_Dem (16,647 posts)

320. Obama didn't run against Bush. The candidate this year was MITT ROMNEY!

I thought everyone knew that, hence my confusion.

And since when do you speak for "everyone"? You certainly don't speak for me. Try to confine your all encompassing, grandiose statements to why YOU voted for him, OR NOT.

Again, you don't speak for "everyone". I know exactly why I voted for President Obama. I think that may be the root of the problem with the Obama trashers. They claim to have worked harder, rang more doorbells, walked more pavement, placed more phone calls than anyone else in the president's huge coalition. It's just not true, and no matter how many times that lie gets repeated, won't make it so.

I place no qualifications on my position that SS was never in danger from this president. He knew Boehner couldn't make a deal, especially ahead of the vote for Speaker. "On the table" is just the president's detractors way of being outraged just for the sake of outrage. I'm much more concerned about the 2 mil people who might find their unemployment suddenly stopped, should we not reach a deal. Whether SS recipients might "hypothetically" lose a hundred bucks for a couple of years, compared with unemployed people losing everything, I'd be willing to take that chance. Luckily, we don't have to.

Reply to this post

Response to Tarheel_Dem (Reply #320)

Fri Dec 28, 2012, 02:00 AM

cui bono (7,459 posts)

321. Who said Obama ran against Bush? That has nothing at all to do with what I'm saying.

Last edited Fri Dec 28, 2012, 02:08 AM USA/ET - Edit history (3)

My point was that Obama has expanded a lot of what Bush did and yet even though everyone did and would complain about it when Bush did it, a lot of people are defending Obama constantly when he is doing those same things. Did you really think I said that Obama ran against Bush? I doubt it.

I never said I spoke for everyone. This is a message board where people voice their opinions. Talking about speaking for everyone... where did I make the claims you listed? And if you are going to use the term "Obama trashers" shall I use the term "Obamabots"? Again, if you want a discussion, you have to curb that kind of talk and also speak to the issues.

As to your last paragraph you couldn't be more wrong with this statement:
" "On the table" is just the president's detractors way of being outraged just for the sake of outrage."
Whether you want to admit it or not, Obama put SS on the table. It is a fact. He offered it up at the Republicans' request and Jay Carney said so at a press briefing. So you can deny it but that doesn't mean it's not true.

I'm glad you are concerned with unemployment. I am as well. Both are a travesty. And one should not be offered up to save the other. PBO has the leverage and has sanity on his side. For him to put SS on the table is a HUGE mistake and something NO DEM should EVER do. It used to be unthinkable until Obama. And there was no reason to bring SS into this negotiation. It pays for itself and doesn't contribute to the national debt or deficit in any way.

Anyway, see? We agree on something. Unemployment should not be suddenly stopped. But SS should not be put on the table either.

Oh, and btw... you STILL haven't answered my questions about how any of those things on my list were being on the people's side. Perhaps that's why you tried to change it to something about Bush running against Obama which I never said.

So, can you answer me? How are all those things being on the people's side? If you're going to call anyone who criticized Obama an "Obama trasher" then prove it. Show me how all those things he does are defensible. Defend them. If you can't then you should apologize for using that term and admit that there are things he needs to be criticized for and that he should be held accountable, just like any other president. If we don't criticize and let him know, he won't get better.

Reply to this post

Response to cui bono (Reply #157)

Sun Dec 23, 2012, 05:07 PM

Stewland (163 posts)

298. These points are well taken

I voted for President Obama because I saw him as the lesser of the two evils. This being said I had to put a clothespin on my nose to do it. Jill Stein may have been the best choice we had. Obama is just a lite version of Bush. At least he is progressive on some social issues. Romney would have been a huge disaster for not just this nation but for the whole world. Campaign finance reform is what is called for. Until we get it, this dysfunctional system is what we get.

Reply to this post

Response to cui bono (Reply #151)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 12:34 AM

Skittles (86,313 posts)

161. CORRECT

well said, cui bono

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 11:24 PM

cui bono (7,459 posts)

137. Obama has still put SS on the table more than once now.

In the past no one would have dared talk about touching it. Obama has made it common place to talk about it.

How do you know he will take it back off the table if/when we go off the cliff, or tomorrow for that matter?

Save the accolades until they've been proven earned please. Proceed.

Reply to this post

Response to cui bono (Reply #137)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 11:31 PM

senseandsensibility (11,606 posts)

144. I have to agree,

although it gives me no pleasure. Well said without any unnecessary drama.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 11:46 PM

msanthrope (16,503 posts)

150. No sheet changing, eh??? And I mean that in the nicest way possible, Will.

I really do.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 20, 2012, 11:59 PM

AnotherMcIntosh (7,540 posts)

153. At some point, is Obama going to give up his plan to reduce SS by using a chained-CPI?

Cutting SS is not going to reduce the deficit because it's not related to the deficit.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 12:32 AM

Skittles (86,313 posts)

160. I keep thinking something is up, that we don't know the whole story

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 12:45 AM

Fearless (12,393 posts)

162. Sounds more like the Republican Party knows how to stick to its guns while we throw the

Baby out with the bath water. Good thing we didn't throw far enough.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 12:54 AM

caseymoz (5,172 posts)

164. This is better, how?

It doesn't seem to occur to anybody that with John Boehner unable to marshal his party, that means he has no standing negotiate. How is having nobody to negotiate with better for Obama? It's almost guaranteed now no deal will be reached before the end of the year.

Unless Obama knows who would replace Boehner, and that person is likely to be moderate, and can somehow guarantee enough Repubs will vote with Democrats. Does that seem like that will happen soon?

I like how people are reading randomness as pure genius, but, then again, randomness made Hitler look like a genius.

Reply to this post

Response to caseymoz (Reply #164)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 01:33 AM

DonCoquixote (5,630 posts)

167. Hitler?

Be wary,as way too many analogies are made to Hitler as flamebait. Not saying that was what YOU meant, but mentioning the H word on here is like pushing a "freak out" button.

Reply to this post

Response to DonCoquixote (Reply #167)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 04:15 AM

caseymoz (5,172 posts)

184. I only said Hitler had a lucky streak . . .

. . . that made him look like a genius. No ideological or political comparisons.

Reply to this post

Response to caseymoz (Reply #184)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 04:19 AM

DonCoquixote (5,630 posts)

186. point noted

I was just letting you know that the H word tends to set off a lot of mayhem here.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 01:35 AM

agentS (1,204 posts)

168. I figured this would happen

Obama could offer ending Medicare, SSI, SS, and boosting military spending by 2 billion a year, the bums would still vote NO.
So we go over the fiscal cliff, which does increase revenue but comes with drastic cutbacks to food stamps and the like.

Bonor the Orange is in deep trouble- he's gonna hafta wait until the new Congress convenes in order to get a deal. And Obama knows this- that means some cuts will be scaled back and CPI gets taken off the table.

All this stuff today is Kabuki theater. Obama and the Dems come out looking reasonable, the less crazy Repubs can say "look at the Tea Party- they're tying our hands" and the teaparty folks look tough in their voters' eyes.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 02:21 AM

tavalon (25,684 posts)

176. Not to be too contrary,

but I think this says more about Boehner's ineptitude than the skill of this White House.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 02:21 AM

cliffordu (29,431 posts)

177. K&R.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 02:26 AM

Hekate (21,221 posts)

178. Thank you Will

But I'm afraid there's still a lot of smoldering hairdos at DU. I think opposition, anxiety, and fury get to be a habit with some, which is too bad.

Anyhow, I enjoyed the Meep-Meep thread very much
http://www.democraticunderground.com/?com=view_post&forum=1251&pid=266312

Hekate

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 02:52 AM

quakerboy (10,566 posts)

181. The president agreed to harm social security

And other important things. Whether it passes into law or not, I count that as a loss.

Kinda like telling your best friend that you want to give your kids away, then realizing that the kids overheard it. Whether you do it or not, whether you meant it or not, they now have that little bit of fear, uncertainty in their hearts. That's damaging.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 03:00 AM

hfojvt (31,311 posts)

182. there's still 10 more days to go

You cannot count Obama out yet.

He's likely to offer a deal at $700,000 next.

It's a little bit premature to be gloating over his victory.

Like John Paul Jones, his ship has not gone down and he has not yet begun to cave.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 04:17 AM

AgingAmerican (1,200 posts)

185. Really all we have to go by is his previous deals with the republicans

n/t

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 04:25 AM

lamp_shade (9,970 posts)

187. Rec #184

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 05:16 AM

Cosmocat (5,395 posts)

189. All due respect - bullshit

He is a genuine guy.

If he put an offer on the table, he was prepared to have it accepted.

This whole "he is just trying to make them look unreasonable" bullshit.

If people don't get that they are complete jackasses by now, this little bit of "three dimensional chess" isn't going to be the thing that suddenly sparks some electric activity in the cerebral cortex.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 05:36 AM

Rowdyboy (20,673 posts)

191. Confusing people with facts is an old tactic.....

And it still works!

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 05:38 AM

aandegoons (473 posts)

192. This is absolute bullshit.

A logical fallacy. He could have easily put another item on the table instead of this fucked up version of chains.

It's the whole lot of them which should be in chains not us.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 07:00 AM

T Roosevelt (4,082 posts)

197. The President only cares about "the deal"

He doesn't care about the legislation. The only way this works as a bluff is if down the road he can tell the Republicans that "I offered chained CPI, and you rejected it", taking it completely off the table by pinning the reason on them. Then he has stuck with that position, and never allow it to be a negotiating point.

History is not on his side on this one...

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 07:00 AM

joshcryer (39,749 posts)

198. lawl, didn't you know, it's all over!

But I expect this is the first step. We'll see what happens.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 07:11 AM

Bluenorthwest (24,151 posts)

199. So there's a deal now? Social Security is no longer on any table and never will be?

Great. Then the sick and the elderly who were used as something of a financial hostage should be rewarded for the exploitation and for the fear they went through.They have earned the right to future protection promised in great detail.
It was wrong to put Social Security on the table at all. Wrong. To use millions of the least among us as pawns in a political theater is always wrong. When anyone exploits any weaker party for personal advantage they owe the exploited party. When the exploited parties are our elders, whom we should never place in fearful circumstances, that debt is large and needs to be addressed.
Of course on DU, a rich politician's feelings are far, far more important that our elder's peace of mind and well being.
Will, let me know when those offers are fully and officially off the table and Seniors fears have been put to rest.

Reply to this post

Response to Bluenorthwest (Reply #199)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 07:13 AM

joshcryer (39,749 posts)

201. Great?

There's 10 days left. No guarantee it's off the table, but it certainly shows even the GOP's unwillingness to gut it. Showing that Obama totally threw it out there and they didn't bite. That's hilarious in and of itself.

Reply to this post

Response to joshcryer (Reply #201)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 07:53 AM

Bluenorthwest (24,151 posts)

205. There is no deal. The objective of these negotiations was not 'no deal and Boehner looks bad'

and no one has said the offers have been rescinded. Most of the money I have made in my life has been under fiercely negotiated contract. One never offers that which one can not live with, ever. Using third parties who are unaware (this is what the OP says Obama did, used elders as a prop in the negotiation theater) is a weak tactic and parties so misused deserve instant and full explanations the second negotiations are finished.
If you feel your skills are so weak that you have to hold a gun to granny's head to make a point, later you have to apologize to granny. Them's the rules, the breaks, that's how the deal making train must run. And in future, you owe Granny big time. Big time. Big, big.

Reply to this post

Response to Bluenorthwest (Reply #199)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 08:19 AM

Liberalynn (5,547 posts)

209. Well said and I have the same question

do we know for sure that SS is off the table in any deal? I haven't heard that yet from any one official and won't celebrate until that is for certain. The Pres and Boehner could still agree to the Pres deal and then vote on it with joint Dem and any PUKES they can get to go along.

I hoped this was over last night when Boner came out and said he couldn't get the votes. But then watched MSNBC late last night and Bill Press this morning. They were saying Boner could acccept the deal Pres gave him with Chained CPI in, and they could pass it with whatever Puke support combined with Dem support they could get.

When someone official announces Chained CPI is out I will celebrate and offer apology to the President. Until then I am not counting my chickens before they hatch.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 08:08 AM

Logical (8,060 posts)

207. LOL, our side spins shit as bad as the GOP! Obama can do no wrong!

Reply to this post

Response to Logical (Reply #207)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 08:33 AM

Barack_America (24,436 posts)

213. He can do plenty wrong, but generally not from a lack of wits.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 08:57 AM

blackspade (2,440 posts)

218. Will, I've loved your OPs over the years....

But I have to disagree.

Hoping that your negotiating 'partner' will implode is not a good strategy.
I wouldn't say that Obama was lucky, but playing russian roulette, is a dicey proposition.
The odds were in his favor, but he didn't need to use the SS cuts as part of his bargain.
The 'thugs were not going to work with him no matter what and all he did was damage himself with his base.

Reply to this post

Response to blackspade (Reply #218)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 09:07 AM

Eddie Haskell (1,137 posts)

219. Yep

Plan B's defeat has nothing to do with Obama's strategy. He didn't even see it coming.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 10:07 AM

truebrit71 (16,908 posts)

224. So because Boner can't get his sheep in a row Obama is genius?

...I don't think so...Obama lucked out because Boner over-estimated his influence..

I agree that Boner now is left with nothing to negotiate with, but that is more because Boner is an idiot than Obama being the ultimate Ninth-Level 3-D Ninja Chess-master...

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 10:19 AM

dawg (5,514 posts)

226. Did I miss something?

Has the debt ceiling been raised? Have the middle-class tax cuts been extended? Have the sequestration spending cuts been avoided?

Do we seriously think we are better off because Boehner can't control his caucus?

Do we seriously think we will be better off negotiating with Speaker Cantor?

All the high-fiving I see today strikes me as pretty dumb. I am disappoint, DU.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 10:21 AM

olegramps (3,926 posts)

227. The failure of Boehner's Plan B is exactly why Obama should have stood his ground.

For over four years Obama promised that he would not touch Social Security because it did not contribute to the dept. In fact when the congress raided it to give the wealthy tax breaks it has actually helped to balance the budget since it ran a surplus. He stated that he was firmly committed to returning the Clinton tax rates for those making $250,000 and up. Now it is $400,000 and Chained CPI for Social Security benefits. Disappointed, yeah, I sure as hell am disappointed.

Boehner and his damn party can go to hell. Nothing more than a pact of fascist bastards who are intent on destroying the nation.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 10:22 AM

heaven05 (2,372 posts)

228. well

I told you all that he's not going to betray our standing in a voting line for 9 hours trust. He just AIN'T going to do that to us. Yes we have to keep up pressure, emails, calls ect, but he won't betray us.

Reply to this post

Response to heaven05 (Reply #228)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 10:28 AM

jsr (3,497 posts)

232. Kinda like having to beg your spouse everyday to not cheat on ya.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 10:55 AM

Johnny2X2X (737 posts)

233. Boehner

Obama was negotiating with an empty suit. Boehner doesn't have his own party behind him, so you might as well be negotiating with the night janitor at the Capital Building.

This moves to the Senate now, but does anyone really think Mitch McConnell is going to want to get anything done.

We're going over the cliff, period.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 11:20 AM

Oilwellian (9,281 posts)

236. Bookmarked n/t

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 11:20 AM

JEB (602 posts)

237. Way past time

Last edited Fri Dec 21, 2012, 11:23 AM USA/ET - Edit history (1)

to stop negotiating with Boner. There is nobody to negotiate with on the right. Now Obama needs to negotiate with those to his left. No cuts to SS, medicaid, medicare, tax the rich, cut the wasteful, corrupt defense Dept.

Reply to this post

Response to JEB (Reply #237)

Sat Dec 29, 2012, 01:41 AM

Tarheel_Dem (16,647 posts)

322. Sounds like a civics lesson might be in order? Obama has to "negotiate" with the.....

Speaker of the House. Negotiating with the left is ridiculous, since the "the left" doesn't control the House.

Reply to this post

Response to Tarheel_Dem (Reply #322)

Sun Dec 30, 2012, 11:34 AM

JEB (602 posts)

324. Maybe left leaning voters

won't be as willing to cast their votes the next time around if there is not a measure of reciprocation. Many Democratic voters were hoping for better results. I am still hopeful that the eventual deal will be a plus for working people. I'm sure that the 1% and the Corporations will fare just fine.

Reply to this post

Response to JEB (Reply #324)

Sun Dec 30, 2012, 01:48 PM

Tarheel_Dem (16,647 posts)

326. There's always the Jill Stein Party, The Roseanne Party, The Rocky Anderson Party.

They were a resounding success this last election.

I'm not sure what liberals don't get about divided government. All their platitudes and talking points aside, they seemingly have no real grasp of who is standing in the way of the kind of deal you're espousing.

"The deal" has to be one that both parties can live with, that's what divided government means. The bellweather of any deal coming from this will be when both extremes go ballistic, then we'll know we've just about got it right.

Reply to this post

Response to Tarheel_Dem (Reply #326)

Sun Dec 30, 2012, 02:18 PM

JEB (602 posts)

327. Just keep sliding to the right?

No matter how crazy and uninformed the opposition is? OK, then.

Reply to this post

Response to Tarheel_Dem (Reply #326)

Sun Dec 30, 2012, 02:28 PM

JEB (602 posts)

328. I voted for BO

given the alternatives but will continue to support positions I believe in. I really don't think it does anybody much good to be a blind cheerleader.

Reply to this post

Response to JEB (Reply #328)

Sun Dec 30, 2012, 03:05 PM

Tarheel_Dem (16,647 posts)

329. MMMMkay!

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 11:28 AM

Liberal1975 (86 posts)

240. I am glad of course

But before we all do a victory lap, both of us Obama believers and Obama doubters, let's take the advice of the believers and see what happens. This thing ain't done yet. What if Obama decides that avoiding another a Great Recession is worth giving up even more than he gave away to Boehner?

I don't think Obama was playing Vulcan chess by putting CPI on the table I think he is (rightfully) scared shitless of another economic meltdown. Wall St is scared shitless, the global markets are scared. That fear is what the TeaParty is banking on. Their "negotiating" style is not any different from how terrorists "negotiate" that's why we don't negotiate with terrorists.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 11:43 AM

bread_and_roses (5,538 posts)

241. He opened the door to SS cuts while he he didn't have to -

I don't call that such great negotiating.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 11:44 AM

BlueStreak (3,781 posts)

242. Kindly tell me how he's going to get back all the concessions he has already offered

Kindly explain to me how it is a brilliant negotiating strategy to have put lots of cards on the table that will become the new starting point when the next round of negotiations starts, considering that his opponents gave up absolutely nothing in the process.

The only answer I have heard is that it makes how look better in the PR race. But he was already winning that 55% to 10%. Is it really worth capitulating on so many points just to maintain the 55% to 10% PR advantage, considering that Obama doesn't ever actually *DO* anything with that PR advantage? Hell, we rarely even uses the bully pulpit.

No on second thought. Don't wast my time trying to make that argument. The reality is clear for all to see.

Worst.
Negotiator.
Ever.

Reply to this post

Response to BlueStreak (Reply #242)

Thu Dec 27, 2012, 06:43 PM

arely staircase (4,149 posts)

313. generally an offer has to be made again once rejected

eom

Reply to this post

Response to arely staircase (Reply #313)

Thu Dec 27, 2012, 08:32 PM

BlueStreak (3,781 posts)

314. But they know he is willing to give up chained CPI and at least $400K as the income limit

Last edited Thu Dec 27, 2012, 08:33 PM USA/ET - Edit history (1)

Obama will never get that back unless he feels so much heat from the left that he is forced to take it back.

But we don't need to argue about it. The answer will be plain to see in a few days.

I predict the final deal will include both those concessions, and probably much greater than $400K -- probably more like $750K.

Reply to this post

Response to BlueStreak (Reply #314)

Thu Dec 27, 2012, 09:53 PM

arely staircase (4,149 posts)

316. there is nothing to get back

when party A mmakes an offer and party B rejects it, party B isn't entitled to show up the next day and say "ok, I accept." yeah, there should be pressure on the left to keep him from offering such things again. but as of now that offer isn't out there. it died when the gopers rejected it.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 11:49 AM

JDPriestly (37,758 posts)

243. The OP is way overoptimistic.

The negotiations are continuing over the Christmas break, and only the military is winning. No one else.

Worst of all, the country is being divided more than ever. Now they are pitting the unemployed against seniors. And all to save the military budget.

That is just sick, just sick.

Reply to this post

Response to JDPriestly (Reply #243)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 02:01 PM

MjolnirTime (1,323 posts)

256. The Negativity is strong with this one.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 11:57 AM

ibegurpard (11,038 posts)

245. And if they come back and accept his previous offer?

How does he squirm out of that?

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 12:38 PM

MynameisBlarney (1,257 posts)

247. DOOOOOOMED! DOOOOOOOOOMED!

The GOP is DOOOOOOOMED!

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 01:05 PM

madrchsod (55,719 posts)

249. i see the "obama lost the first debate" folks still don`t get it

he knew the republicans would never ever expect anything he offered. so now he exposed the republicans in the house putting themselves above the american people.

round two will be really interesting......

Reply to this post

Response to madrchsod (Reply #249)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 01:57 PM

djean111 (936 posts)

251. If I spoke for the GOP, I would just say I couldn't accept a deal that would affect Social Security.

What a gift they have been given!

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 01:59 PM

AnnieK401 (475 posts)

254. To be fair, is it really that difficult to outwit the GOP?

Last edited Fri Dec 21, 2012, 02:02 PM USA/ET - Edit history (1)

They think with their guns.

Reply to this post

Response to AnnieK401 (Reply #254)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 02:08 PM

Jamaal510 (3,159 posts)

258. "They think with their guns."

Do they even think, though? Many of them still believe that climate change is a hoax and they demonize socialism while relying on public highways and police.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 02:04 PM

BlueCaliDem (5,244 posts)

257. Thank you! Enthusiastic kicked and rec'd.

Too bad too many around here had already lit their hair on fire. When will they ever trust this president to do the correct thing for this country?

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 02:08 PM

former9thward (6,381 posts)

259. Tell the two million unemployed that lose benefits at the end of the year about the negotiatons.

Reply to this post

Response to former9thward (Reply #259)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 03:30 PM

nolabels (11,118 posts)

262. They tell us they are going to give us pain if we don't give them what they want

You can do mostly just a couple things when pain comes.

One, you can live with it and hope it heals and goes away, or, two, fight it from where it comes from to make it go away, and lastly just die for some reason because you could no longer deal with it.

As a group we seem to of mostly chosen the number two option. The group seems to be holding together for a greater good. It's not much different than watching a flock birds fly south for the winter. They may stop once in while for a rest but process will still continue till they get there

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 02:18 PM

closeupready (19,464 posts)

260. K&R

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 02:57 PM

Luschnig (13 posts)

261. Spin this:

Obama & Dems - 1
Boehner & GOP - 0

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 04:56 PM

Baitball Blogger (11,263 posts)

266. Splain for us devoid of negotiating skills.

So, the White House set a trap for Boehner?

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 06:17 PM

FiveGoodMen (13,238 posts)

267. Here's more.

Last edited Fri Dec 21, 2012, 06:18 PM USA/ET - Edit history (1)

http://www.democraticunderground.com/10022049710

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 06:25 PM

Robb (38,327 posts)

269. They were playing taps for Boehner on NPR this morning.

That's something. K&R.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 06:33 PM

sulphurdunn (3,480 posts)

270. "I agree with you, I want to do it, now make me do it." Obama

It's progressives who remind Obama (and the Democratic Party) that there is a price to pay for selling them out. They make him do it, not his worshipers. Politicians and their parties are not sports teams. They represent the interests of those able to bring the most power to bear upon them. They have no loyalties, only interests, and neither should we.

Reply to this post

Response to sulphurdunn (Reply #270)

Sun Dec 30, 2012, 11:58 AM

JEB (602 posts)

325. Yeah,

that is how I see it. We will only get what we fight for, no matter who is POTUS.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 06:47 PM

Ford_Prefect (251 posts)

271. They say the fight game is won by rounds. I think we just saw round 1.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 07:15 PM

CheapShotArtist (315 posts)

272. After all the "Obama puts SS on the table" and "Obama is caving" threads,

this thread is refreshing to see. The FUDing has gotten so bad on here since the election that I rarely post on here.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 08:17 PM

KoKo (69,522 posts)

274. But..Will...he governs for "SOME DEMS"...but not for us ALL Here:

Obama's Speech at Brookings Institution 2006...where he lays out that FDR's Programs need "revisiting." (Implication by him..."FDR's Programs are Out-Dated")

This is a very important Speech of Obama in 2006 laying out what he would be as President. Do you remember this speech?

Anyway...we all need memory refreshers these days with all the

going on these days that frankly gets kind of depressing. But...here it is..in President Obama's Own Words to Brookings in front of the Bankers he saved...

http://www.democraticunderground.com/10022051328

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 08:23 PM

Firebrand Gary (3,313 posts)

275. So awesome! Thanks for posting this! Laughed out loud!

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 09:39 PM

JDPriestly (37,758 posts)

277. Negotiations are entering phase 2, but they aren't over until the deadline is passed.

That's my opinion. The Republicans got a lot of calls from irate constituents, and they are going home to test the waters with their donors.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 09:59 PM

Bake (21,685 posts)

278. Did we suddenly get a deal that averts the fiscal cliff, doesn't touch Soc Sec, and

raises taxes on those earning more than $250K? And I missed it?

Damn.

Oh wait. We didn't. So far we got NOTHING.

Bake

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Fri Dec 21, 2012, 10:09 PM

emulatorloo (24,216 posts)

279. Will: thanks. Getting sick of these negative bullshit lying posts

from the loud handful.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Sat Dec 22, 2012, 02:08 AM

grahamhgreen (9,793 posts)

282. Because he's negotiating with himself! We were saved from Social Security cuts by..... Boner????

Last edited Sat Dec 22, 2012, 02:14 AM USA/ET - Edit history (1)

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Sat Dec 22, 2012, 08:41 AM

Bluenorthwest (24,151 posts)

283. Two great Will Pitt threads from the past:

"The right wing thrives on vitriol, hate and divisiveness. When the bile they spew goes unchallenged, their disease infects the people around them. They will not lie down, Mr. President. You are going to have to put them down - with true progressive action, not the frail rhetoric of appeasement.
No one has ever proclaimed a die-hard commitment to centrism. No one has ever held a rally to support bipartisanship. Those are Washington DC catchphrases that mean nothing, serving only as a fog for professional politicians huddling together inside the beltway, too timid and too immersed in campaign logic to stand for anything."

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=389x7521150

And his theory that Rick Warren's bigotry won 2008 for Obama. Not Obama, not Axelrod, not the American Electorate. Rick Warren won 2008 for Obama:
"What is better for America in the long run? Keep Warren off that stage, or keep winning Red states and annihilate the GOP? Put Warren up there, and maybe we keep winning, and after enough wins, there won't be any more "Warren" types in enough numbers to bother with."
http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=389x4672637

Pitt is all over the place and his only metric seems to be 'correct = what Will is doing, incorrect is what others especially gay others, are doing.

Reply to this post

Response to Bluenorthwest (Reply #283)

Sat Dec 22, 2012, 01:38 PM

WilliamPitt (54,469 posts)

288. So much for Juries

"'correct = what Will is doing, incorrect is what others especially gay others, are doing"

Put your money where your mouth is. You have my full attention, link-hoarder. Show me you're right.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Sun Dec 23, 2012, 05:50 AM

Skittles (86,313 posts)

294. not me

I had the feeling something was up

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Sun Dec 23, 2012, 09:12 AM

SkyDaddy7 (4,571 posts)

296. YES!!

Could not agree more! We have a faction on "our side" that seem to want President Obama to fail. They really do end up eating their words most of the time & then resorting to blaming President Obama for things out of his control like what happened with GITMO & Single Payer. Oh well, I have actually grown use to it after 4yrs but it is still nice to see the FACTS set folks straight like the OP pointed out.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Mon Dec 24, 2012, 12:20 PM

bvar22 (29,521 posts)

300. Meanwhile, back on Planet Earth,

the Score is STILL Zero to Zero.

After the last 4 years, it certainly seems like a victory for the Democrats
if the Republicans don't get everything they want and more.... yet.
I guess, in a way, that is a step in the right direction for the Democratic Party.
This, in and of itself, is worth celebrating.

My BIG problem is that President Obama has ,
once again, pushed Social Security into the pot on the gaming table.
All of the threads, your included, praise Obama for Not Losing our Social Security.
NONE have addressed the fact that Daddy is gambling with the Rent Money.

What was once a Sacred, inviolate cornerstone of the Democratic Party,
the Untouchable 3rd Rail has been reduced to a gambling chip.
He HAS set a precedent that has forever diminished the status of Social Security.
The Rubicon has been crossed, and it was crossed by a Democratic President.

Social Security will NOW be On-the-Table in every future Budget or Spending negotiation... until eventually it is lost.
Even Bobby Fischer lost at Chess occasionally.
Obama HAS violated the Cardinal Rule:
Never Gamble with the Rent Money.

The reduction in status from "You DIE if you touch this (3rd Rail)"
to "Lets go ALL IN"
IS a victory for Republicans ,
AND the forces that have always lusted for the Social Security Funds.
THAT is not worthy of a celebration on a Democratic Discussion Board.

my 2 cents.

Reply to this post

Response to bvar22 (Reply #300)

Wed Dec 26, 2012, 02:43 PM

grahamhgreen (9,793 posts)

307. +1. "Obama HAS violated the Cardinal Rule: Never Gamble with the Rent Money."

Instead of going after Big War, he went after the safety net for the elderly.

Major fail. Unless you're a plutocrat.

Reply to this post

Response to bvar22 (Reply #300)

Thu Dec 27, 2012, 10:40 PM

Skraxx (350 posts)

318. What Planet Do You Live On? Cause On This Planet, Not Only Have Changes to SS Been Discussed

in the past, they've actually been implemented, including benefit cuts.

So nice to see that you are the arbiter of what is 'sacred' and what we are allowed and not allowed to discuss on this Democratic society.

Pray tell, what else is off limits for hypothetical discussions? What else is verboten, oh wise one?

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Mon Dec 24, 2012, 12:50 PM

samsingh (10,339 posts)

301. if Obama doesn't pull a first debate on us - he could do tremendous good for this country

1. safeguard voting rights and standards in all States regardless of who's in power
2. strengthen Universal Health Care
3. exand the Supreme Court (i believe he has the power to do it) and roll back Citizens United
4. solidify LGT rights
5. respect the decisions some States are making to legalize Weed. THIS IS VERY IMPORTANT AND WILL TRANSLATE TO YEARS OF VICTORIES
6. get gun violence under control. Build a coalition against the NRA so that they are irrelevant as they should be
7. strengthen support for Women and the middle class.
8. invest in green technology and education.

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 27, 2012, 06:28 PM

Number23 (13,216 posts)

311. K&R Better late than never, especially around here

Reply to this post

Response to WilliamPitt (Original post)

Thu Dec 27, 2012, 06:29 PM

Rex (34,646 posts)

312. The back tracking is getting ridiculous.

I don't know what will be the next 'thing' when we get what we want and they cut nothing. Should be interesting to watch how they explain it.

Reply to this post

General Discussion (Forum)