Don’t let Detroit be our future
Thinking Right’s weekend free-for-all. Pick a topic:
● Incoming Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed — he takes office Monday — has been handed a 300-page binder identifying problems the outgoing mayor leaves behind. Reed’s designated chief operating officer Peter Aman says, “The shortage of funds is a theme that runs through every department.” That’s a surprise. The binder should have included a Wall Street Journal interview with Mayor Dave Bing titled “Can Detroit Be Saved?” Clue: Yes, but downsized and with payroll costs brought under control. There, union employee benefit costs run 68 percent of base salaries. Keys to Mayor Kasim Reed’s success will be payroll costs. Unless he can gain control of future pension liabilities, he’ll simply be another in that long line of politicians who roll over exploding personnel costs to the next guy. The solution is to immediately close existing pension plans to new employees and start over with defined-contribution, as opposed to defined-benefit, plans. That’s the solution, too, for the state and other local governments. Otherwise, Detroit’s the future.
● The gap between public- and private-sector compensation grows. In 2008, the average pay for federal civilian employees was $79,197. For those in the private sector, it was $50,028. With benefits, the federal compensation is $119,982, compared to $59,909 for those in the private sector. This administration will create good new jobs. In Washington. Directing health care decisions.
● As an Atlanta cop, I’d be wary of the Citizen Review Board, too. Accountability and discipline are chain-of-command responsibilities. The board was created in 2007 after the police raid that resulted in the death of 92-year-old Katherine Johnston. Review boards, like blue-ribbon commissions, should be temporary and task-specific. Power shouldn’t be left lying around for the unelected.
● On second thought … The immediate spin from the Copenhagen climate conference was that the U.S., China, India, South Africa and Brazil had achieved, in the words of President Barack Obama, an “unprecedented breakthrough” on greenhouse gas emissions. The “unprecedented breakthrough” was said to include “a mechanism to verify compliance.” Bunk. It’s empty words. The disconnect between the president’s rhetoric and reality is often expansive.
● Senate passage of the government takeover of health care is a reminder that Blue Dog Democrats in the House and Senate — U.S. Sens. Blanche Lincoln of Arkansas and Ben Nelson of Nebraska among them — are always there for conservativism. Until their votes are actually needed. Then they choose the course that got former U.S. Sen. Max Cleland defeated. Red-state politicians in competitive districts cannot follow Nancy Pelosi and Harry Reid.
● State and Local Government Goal for 2010: Govern without drama. I’m about OD’d on Clayton’s. Quiet competence. Go for it. State Rep. David Ralston (R-Blue Ridge), who’s certain to be the next speaker of the Georgia House of Representatives, is the quietly competent type. Without drama, he puts a stop to suggestions that higher taxes are the solution. “People are hurting,” he said. “They’re wondering about how they’re going to buy their kids presents [for Christmas], how they’re going to pay their bills. They’re worried about what happens if they have a health care crisis in their family. The last thing they need is for government to take more of their money.” Music to our ears. A conservative who is reliably conservative.
● Political correctness makes it probable that the only domestic terrorism that can be prevented is that posed by Ku Klux Klanners and other white supremacists. Any threat more complex or modern simply baffles Homeland Security.
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113 comments Add your comment
Black and red
December 31st, 2009
11:17 pm
May the new year bring happiness, prosperity and good health. At least before new taxes, fees and the impending health care debacle.
A True Patriot
January 1st, 2010
8:33 am
It would serve the citizens of Atlanta right to go the way of Detroit for electing another mayor who’s not gonna do anything to change the status quo…..he’s gonna hire the same kind of imcompetent boobs that mayors of Atlanta have been hiring for the last thirty five years. Save the best part, Buckhead and form your own city…..it’s the only way you’re going to survive. Happy New Year everyone
Diogen
January 1st, 2010
8:53 am
Reed will be no different from the previous black mayors. It ain’t too PC to
utter, but who cares…blacks only think of short-time gains (usually gains
for themselves), which of course explains the big problem with Detroit and
Atlanta, the Black Mecca.
Road Scholar
January 1st, 2010
8:58 am
Government employees make more than the private sector: Maybe at the federal or local level, but not at the state level!
” As an Atlanta cop, I’d be wary of the Citizen Review Board”
Not if the CRB is allowed to review managements follow up with any investigation. Yes Jim I agree that the Managemnt people should be in charge, but they need some checks and balances to ensure their job is done. Remeber dekalb County and the problems they had had for years with upper police management corruption?
Road Scholar
January 1st, 2010
9:00 am
Diogen: “blacks only think of short-time gains …”
What a racist statement! Unlike you, at least they think!
wow.
January 1st, 2010
9:26 am
Actually honey, it’s a Rhode Scholar, not Road. wow.
Chris Murphy, Atlanta, GA
January 1st, 2010
9:37 am
It’s Rhoads Scholar, as in Cecil, and he’s smart enough to use a play on words. You?
The Anti-Wooten
January 1st, 2010
9:38 am
Jim, did you imbibe too much last night? Your Friday screed seems more angry than usual.
Citizen Review Boards are an absolute necessity due to the War on Drugs started by your heroes Nixon and Reagan. They’ve now handed so much open ended power to the police and taken rights from Americans in order to protect profits of drug and chemical companies.
Rep. Ralston is correct about the fact that people are worried about a health care crisis in their families, people are so accustomed to the idea that health care coverage will evaporate at the whim of some corporate bully if something happens. Thank goodness that we may finally be close to some relief from that situation.
Chris Murphy, Atlanta, GA
January 1st, 2010
9:38 am
Whoops, you were right: Rhodes.
Rhode my bike down the skreet
January 1st, 2010
9:39 am
Big bloated Atlanta government has to end, but won’t. Any serious attempt to downsize will be met with lawsuits etc. Kasim is not only in da house, but has the keys. It’ll be an interesting watch.
This is Mrs. Norman Maine
January 1st, 2010
9:48 am
“Then they choose the course that got former U.S. Sen. Max Cleland defeated.”
Do you mean they intend to run against draft dodgers who will run their pictures along side of Saddam Hussein and Osama bin Laden and imply that they are not committed to the safety of America? Are there other politicians who are that hypocritical and unethical other than Silly Saxby? Are there any Americans outside of Georgia who are stupid enough to fall for that? If so, then I suppose their defeat is imminent.
rr
January 1st, 2010
9:48 am
For those of you who live in the burbs go for walk in midtown and head south towards downtown. Take a ride on Marta while you’re at it and see how many bums you encounter. Watch how tourists (if you see any) will get bombarded by black men for money. Look how out of control five points is. Blacks stop making excuses for your own people. Then tell me this place isn’t starting to look like Detroit to you.
Ted Striker
January 1st, 2010
9:52 am
I wish Jim Wooten were in office. He wouldn’t get anything done but it would at least give him a needed dose of humility since he is far better at criticism and talk than actually bringing about a solution.
cliff zeider
January 1st, 2010
10:01 am
Hey, It’s to late, Atlanta and Detroit are just alike, rats nest. cz
city of atlanta is doomed
January 1st, 2010
10:16 am
Atlanta is and has been doomed. Those that live and vote in the city limits have consistently, for the last 30 years, voted for regression. That is why clear thinking and visionary people choose to live in the suburbs…Atlanta is a hopeless case.
Glad-to-be-out-of Atl
January 1st, 2010
10:20 am
Can Atlanta avoid becoming another “Detroit”?? Only if it’s citizens are intelligent enough to vote for leaders on the basis of qualifications and integrity, and not the color of their skin – no sign of this so far.
todd
January 1st, 2010
10:26 am
When is America going to face the facts. Liberals – most of who were black – have destroyed every single great city they have ever been in charge of. I defy you to give me an example of a city that the liberal blacks are running or have run that is successful. Now we have handed over our federal government to them and we are in BIG trouble already. They are trying their best to turn DC into Detroit.
Andre
January 1st, 2010
10:26 am
Jim, I’m not shocked that you would start the year off comparing Atlanta to Detroit. You know by writing this column a firestorm would start in the Atlanta community, it will continue to divide Atlanta. Just like **Glenn Beck** all he does is TRY to divide the country. But we as Americans are strong enough to let that fool divide us. So does Atlanta have factories failing all around the city, that supported the city? No, but Detroit did. They never recovered from that. What a way to stick to a city while they’re down. Truthfully it seems like you’re **HOPING** for Atlanta to do bad. Because if Atlanta does bad, you’ll still have a **J-O-B**. But if Atlanta does good and starts to climb, I’m sure the AJC would hand you your walking papers, because you won’t have anything to say. Just sit there at your computer and look like a dummy.
bubbaroy
January 1st, 2010
10:28 am
Jim – Every now and then you have a thought or two that I can actually agree with. Too bad that you quickly move to your right wing blather.
waiting moderation
January 1st, 2010
10:32 am
We are not headin toward Detroit we are heading toward Flint Michigan. Our city is a Joke and the new mayor will do nothing. he is only part of the same machine. Atlanta is Truly Gone With the Wind, or would that by Gas. Were Screwed.
waiting moderation
January 1st, 2010
10:34 am
Jim awesome way to start the year. we need more people with the balls to say something. unlike your buddy Jay.
DD
January 1st, 2010
10:51 am
I’m from the MOTORCITY and now I’m in the MOFOCITY.
Mr Attitude
January 1st, 2010
11:06 am
Diogen and Todd,
I see that your white supremacy pride is shining very brightly. Let’s not forget that many of the ills that America faces today did not come from the black community, but the blue eyed grand wizards who have gambled America’s currency by cheating and creating vehicles that have led this country into ruin. Need a memory refresher – who created derivatives? Let’s look at the nuts in the Senate!! Pretty much snow white, espiecally with the two idiots from Georgia. Look at the fat cats on Wall Street. Yep, pretty much all white. I could take up some space if I really wanted to, but even with your slanted views, you should get the picture.
Hmm, it’s getting pretty quiet now.
Mr Attitude
January 1st, 2010
11:15 am
Ted Striker,
I agree with you on wishing Jim Wooten was in office. It’s easy to sit back and critique others, but how about taking that “wisdom” and become a councilman or a county commissioner?
Allyana Ziolko
January 1st, 2010
11:17 am
This is all such a crock…..there’s a shortage on the books, then there is an surplus on the books. With Reed’s election came all hope of someone sitting down and looking at what’s happened to ANY money in the city coffers over the years. Atlanta has already gone the way of Detroit…a grey and dirty, violent city. It’s not that I don’t want to give Kasim Reed a chance. He seized the opportunity to prove he is different. Let’s see him DO it.
Marion Barry
January 1st, 2010
11:21 am
Don’t worrry about what those white fokes says about you all we brothers has to do is put our picture up their and our brothers and sisters will vote for us. Smoke crack, no problim they stills elect you.
Kasim Reed
January 1st, 2010
11:22 am
Just look at my time in the state legislature to see how good I am and what a wonderful job I did.
Justine
January 1st, 2010
11:38 am
There is no comparison between city employees in Detroit and Atlanta. As a retired city of ATlanta worker I can tell you the pay for the rank and file is well below that of the private sector. The only thing the city had to offer was security and a pension. In fact, when I went to work for the city I actually lost $200 per month. The problem with Atlanta is it is like a small child with no direction and reaching out to anything that shines. Lets take a look. Despite the fact Underground had failed several times, the city invested millions into it. As of today, there is still no visible impact on the lives of average citizens with the millions of Enterprise Zone money that was spent. Although Atlantic STation now sits on land which was previously occupied by a steel plant, the city claims it has not made a profit. Atlanta has grown by leaps and brounds with tall builds and an abundance of high end housing within the city limits. Yet it remains in worse condition than it was 20 years ago.
Stop blaming city workers and pensioners for the problems of this city. We worked hard and were always underpaid. It was those at the top who took and kept the money.
I beleive there must be a major investigation into how the money was spent. I wish Mayor Reed well but I also hope he is a true change and not just a new face.
todd
January 1st, 2010
11:40 am
Mr. Attitude – I am still waiting for the example of a successful liberal black run city. You are right – it sure is quiet.
97degreeyogurt
January 1st, 2010
11:44 am
From Wooten: “The gap between public- and private-sector compensation grows. In 2008, the average pay for federal civilian employees was $79,197. For those in the private sector, it was $50,028. With benefits, the federal compensation is $119,982, compared to $59,909 for those in the private sector. This administration will create good new jobs. In Washington. Directing health care decisions”.
It would be nice if Wooten would give us the source of this data so we could decide if this number is really as astonishing as it appears to be. I am guessing the cleavage between the two is actually smaller:
1) Are they counting full or part time workers?
2) Most federal positions are located in large metropolitan areas where the locality pay is substantially higher due to a higher cost of living, where there are plenty of private sector jobs in rural areas of the country with lower costs of living and hence lower wages which would lower the average.
3) Using the average wage is a poor measure of central tendency—for example I doubt there are many federal jobs that pay minimum wage, where as I am sure there are a plethora of private sector jobs that do, bringing down the average for the private sector. Looking at the median wage would likely prove to be a better indicator.
So Wooten–show us the data that backs your statement
Ray
January 1st, 2010
11:53 am
Detroit is the future of OUR COUNTRY. Please name me any city (or country) that does NOT decompose when run by generations of liberal democrats?
Dave
January 1st, 2010
12:02 pm
I’m running for Governor, Speaker of the House in Georgia, U.S. Senate, and President. I should be able to start and keep up with my lies, fornication, and spending, but I’m going to have a problem with the hanging out in airport bathroom stalls.
MrLiberty
January 1st, 2010
12:24 pm
Isn’t Atlanta already the Detroit of the south??
MonroeDrive
January 1st, 2010
12:24 pm
In regards to your supposition regarding the Atlanta Citizens Review Board, it’s exactly what the City of Atlanta needs…an independent audit system trained to apply a keen eye on the blue line. Appointed boards with real teeth, as in subpoena power, is what well appointed boards need to do a good job. The question is: why wouldn’t the police want checks and balances?
Law enforcement oversight is nothing new. Atlanta is long overdue. Unfortunately the APD failure to perform ongoing house cleaning has in effect, turned a blind eye to the big bully tactics and corruption that gives the ranks a bad name. Couple that with ABPO rhetoric and it’s no wonder their lawyers are providing advice that hoodwinks the rank and file into breaking the law requiring them to cooperate. And get this…City attorneys waste time and tax payer money advising Pennington to break the law by not disciplining the officers who ignore the law!
Very few elected officials will wade into this dangerous water. They have endorsements to remember. The diversely appointed volunteers from the city are doing what the elected bureaucracy is unable or will not do. I say full steam ahead!
Dave O
January 1st, 2010
12:27 pm
Happy New Year my friend. I hope you and yours had a great Christmas. We sure miss you around here.
Diogen
January 1st, 2010
12:29 pm
Mr. Attitude wrote:
“even with your slanted views, you should get the picture”
Yes, we get the picture quite well. You are either black or a Zero Bar.
Yes, crooks come in all races, it’s just that blacks have the market
cornered. Yes, Congress is rotten and mostly white. They are rotten
because most except Ron Paul are completely spineless and are nothing
but hookers for Israel. If you are referring to the likes of Madoff as white,
many feel that’s debatable. But back to the issue. You don’t like the facts.
Unpleasant yes, but nonetheless true. Examples are myriad. Blacks
think primarily of themselves, not others. They are known poor/no tippers,
and no life insurance company ever made much from that market. Acts such
as suicide is rare amongst blacks..common knowledge. They prefer to strike
at and harm others instead of themselves……There was big news lately about
the Publix that decided to shut down in West Atlanta black area. The place probably
suffered more from inventory shrinkage, i.e. theft, than anything else. I got the hell
out of Fulton 10 years ago, and sing songs of joy every day now. The fat, stupid,
lazy chair warmers that made the City offices third world are now drawing fat
pensions. Funny. Good luck.
Dave O
January 1st, 2010
12:29 pm
97degreeyogurt – it out there you go look it up. But you really don’t care if it is or not, you probably think the Government is the answer not the problem.
scott
January 1st, 2010
12:37 pm
i dont agree with jim wooten on too much but he hit it on the nose!!i often say that atlanta and detroit are sister cities..back in the 70,s detroit was a thriving city much like Atlanta ..went up thier(detroit) for a business trip i was shocked and astonished at the ugliness ,the blight ,the downtrotten,hopeless looking black americans,detroit looks like its been through 6 wars not a store in the city not a decent place to shop,crime running rampant i have a feelin in detroit they will kill you and leave your body in the streets and step over you for days until it rots to non existence..please dont ATLANTA become detroit but it is slowly becoming just that..kaseem reed i dont think he will do to much he wants just the office and the power..Atlanta..lookk to how great SEATTLE IS AND COPY THE RESULTS..PLEASE!!!
scott
January 1st, 2010
1:02 pm
ATLANTA..PLEASE GO TO SEATTLE…AND QUICKLY COPY THE RESULTS THE CITY OF SEATTLE IS WELL RAN BEAUTIFUL, AND ITS DOWNTOWN IS ENERGETIC,AND VIBRANT!!IF NOT THEN ATLANTA IS AND WILL DETROIT WHICH IS AMERICA,S MOST HORRIBLE CITY!!
Settle Down Kittens
January 1st, 2010
1:04 pm
Can any of you idiots give concrete examples of how Atlanta is going the way of Detroit? Our metro area has runaway growth because of the city of Atlanta, not because of the countless suburban pitstops ringing the city. Detroit was all about cars and music… Atlanta’s economy is robust because of it diversity (in businesses). When the Dotcom business went bust, Atlanta keep on ticket. We have it all here (except for waterfront property). You stupid kittens need to drink your milk and take a nap because you’re not grown enough to climb out of your suburban hell holes for a trip to the city – to do all the things you can’t do in biscuitville…
BravesFan79
January 1st, 2010
1:06 pm
Screw the PC crowd, i was a 5 time survivor of black violent crime in early 2000’s … ill never be PC! And Jim is right, if they focused on the actual problems (mexican and black gangs), and not old white men in white hats standing up for their culture/ heritage thats under constant attack from the race mixing liberal media, then maybe something would actually get done and our streets would be safer!!
97degreeyogurt
January 1st, 2010
1:07 pm
I did look it up Dave O here is the link:
http://www.cato-at-liberty.org/2009/08/24/federal-pay-continues-rapid-ascent/
Try to digest the numbers if you can, also note that the large increases that occurred under the Bush Administration (2000-2008). Funny how Wooten didn’t mention this in his mini-diatribe.
97degreeyogurt
January 1st, 2010
1:14 pm
Dave O–Your assumptions are incorrect about my motive for questioning Wooten, I wanted to have the facts straight before becoming overly concerned as a taxpayer that more than likely pays more in taxes than you do.
My assumptions about you have to do with being an sparsely educated white male, nothing more nothing less
mitzymy
January 1st, 2010
1:27 pm
I hope the comparison of Atlanta and Detroit are just a way to get bloggers. I visited Detroit last March, and we went downtown. You could park anywhere, because there were no cars except at the casinos. It was terrible,and a lot different from what it was 10 years ago. Last year I visited Seattle and wish that I didn’t have to leave. It is a beautiful city on the water with many tourist attractions that will thrill you. The difference might be that Seattle is an 80% college grad city. The majority of its citizens have graduated from college. Atlanta, is beautiful but the mismanagement has caused the much needed areas to be overlooked.
BravesFan79 i will NEVER be PC!
January 1st, 2010
1:33 pm
It makes a BIG difference when you can live in a city/town without the constant worry of your wife/ kids being the victim of a home invasion, or being shot/ stabbed while just walking down the street. Just compare Decatur/ Clayton to Douglasville/ Fayetville.. and U tell me the difference!! As someone that worked over 50% of the apt complexes throught Atlanta, i know. I think im 2 REAL for this blog. I might offend some overly sensitive PC pzzy…. better edit what i say. Hey… im just “keepin it real” which unfortunatly is not allowed, because im not the right skin color to be able 2 speak my mind.
Buckhead Fred
January 1st, 2010
2:00 pm
To all you Cyber Racist out there, would you be willing to meet at a coffe shop on the Good Side of Town and talk with Educated Black People face to face or hide behind a computer in the safety of Pickens County in a run down single wide. You people are so typical even in 2010. Why don’t you idiots get elected Mayor and fix the problems. You have all the answers. Oh, I’m sorry, a redneck is too stupid to ge elected, even in rual Georgia. That is the reason you sit in a dirty trailer and bash other races on a computer. The smart educated whites have left you behind. P.S, if you worked in over 50% Apartment Complexes in Atlanta, you need to follow the American Dream and pull youself up with your overall straps.
BigBaldwin
January 1st, 2010
2:22 pm
About the Civilian Review Board, don’t be wary of IT, just be wary of how it is constructed. A CRB is the only way to reel in cop’s bad behavior and restore the PD to what it was when the citizens created it. Any city must run the board without payroll, volunteer only, and be dedicated to sculpting the PD the people really want, not what the PD says is best or the police union says is OK according to their policy. The only policy that matters is the people’s policy. The concept of a police department has long ago lost its way and will never come back on its own. Cops must be re-trained according to what today’s people want them to be. Only a CRB can do that. The “intricate police work” myth needs to be exposed for the lie behind the smoke screen that it has always been. bigbaldwin.blogspot.com
NOBama 2012
January 1st, 2010
2:30 pm
Hey Buckhead Fred, you spelled coffee and rural wrong you Educated Black Person and the majority of Educated Black People see right through Atlanta’s Government. It’s only the ignorant ones like you that make statements like this. Another thought, you wouldn’t know what to do if a white person stood up to you! Even better, you wouldn’t know what to do if a white person said let’s meet at the Church’s Chicken on Bankhead Hwy., would ya????? Just admit it, you want all white folk run out of Atlanta!!
Buckhead Fred
January 1st, 2010
2:34 pm
So what Nobama So what Nobama So what!!!
Buckhead Fred
January 1st, 2010
2:36 pm
Meet me at Churches on Bankhead Nobama, Meet me at Churches on Bankhead Nobama!!!
True Patriot
January 1st, 2010
2:45 pm
I cannot stand old white racists.
never again in 2010
January 1st, 2010
2:59 pm
After finally developing a fully functioning brain, I have decided that my new year’s resolution is to not read wooten’s blog. Peace!
Diogen
January 1st, 2010
3:55 pm
“Buckhead” Fred wrote:
“To all you Cyber Racist out there, would you be willing to meet at a coffe shop on the Good Side of Town and talk with Educated Black People face to face or hide behind a computer in the safety of Pickens County in a run down single wide. You people are so typical even in 2010. Why don’t you idiots get elected Mayor and fix the problems. You have all the answers. Oh, I’m sorry, a redneck is too stupid to ge elected, even in rual Georgia. That is the reason you sit in a dirty trailer and bash other races on a computer. The smart educated whites have left you behind. P.S, if you worked in over 50% Apartment Complexes in Atlanta, you need to follow the American Dream and pull youself up with your overall straps.”
Fred, this was simply marvelous. Stupidity, racism, baseless assertions, threats of violence…all in one! Great job, you simply do a wonderful job illustrating the points here. My favorite question of you posited was why don’t we (meaning white) get elected mayor of Atlanta and straighten the train wreck out… HILARIOUS!!!! NO WHITE will ever be elected, as long as the majority are black and racist and stupid like you, and always vote on race alone. For the defeat of white Mary Norwood, the black poverty pimps swung into action: every rib shack, pool hall, juke joint and Public Housing National Wildlife Preserve residence was emptied and bused to the polls. You are typical of your race Freddy boy, always pointing the finger of blame to others (usually white) instead of solving your problems, which are legion.
Buckhead Fred
January 1st, 2010
4:23 pm
Diogen, What time is the Klan Rally? Do you have a new white sheet for 2010? Great job, you simply do a wonderful job illustrating the points here, “the black poverty pimps swung into action: every rib shack, pool hall, juke joint and Public Housing National Wildlife Preserve residence was emptied and bused to the polls”. Now is this type of talk not typical of “Your Kind”. Your verbiage reminds me of an old bitter racist from the past who is not even relevant in the new century. Any Happy New Year, I have better things to do than to blog with a Cyber racist. I’ll expect a comment from you alongs the lines of go back to the projects, selling drugs or hanging at the juke joint or what not. Anyway, have a nice and fruitful 2010. Take all the cheap shots you want, I’m done blogging!
Buckhead Fred
January 1st, 2010
4:24 pm
Oh, I meant Anyway. Don’t bother to correct me English Teacher.
Chris Broe
January 1st, 2010
4:25 pm
Fun new blog game for 2010 called, “Name That Moron”.
“I can name that moron by reading only four comments.”
I can name that moron by reading three comments.
“Name that moron”
Anyone wanna play?
scottd
January 1st, 2010
4:39 pm
Self determination to create an American Congo to follow in Detroit’s footsteps. I’m glad I don’t live in the inefficient, poorly run hell anymore.
Hillbilly Deluxe
January 1st, 2010
4:57 pm
The gap between public- and private-sector compensation grows. In 2008, the average pay for federal civilian employees was $79,197. For those in the private sector, it was $50,028.
I’ve only worked in the private sector but I’ve never seen a figure as high as either of those on my W-2.
Mr Attitude
January 1st, 2010
5:00 pm
Hey Todd,
Tell me of a successful run white city that is without cronyism. Or better yet, tell me of a state that whites has run without cronyism? You’d probably be up all night researching that one. Or are you one of those who think that being consersative means that you have the mental aptitude to run a city and/or state government. And if you think that’s true, all you have to do is look at those white nimrods under the gold dome and see what a mess they have made of running this state. If they arent either soliciting “gifts” from lobbyists, having a pious attitude in not allowing Georgians a vote on whether to sell alcohol on Sunday, or upholding moral values by cheating on their wives, what have they really done??
Mr Attitude
January 1st, 2010
5:32 pm
Diogen,
What difference does my skin color make? Are you that simple minded? Never mind, dont answer that – I dont want you to be up all night thinking of an answer.
See, the problem with you Club 14-88 members is that you feel that white supremacy is the answer to society’s problems when in fact it is becauuse of many white men holding positions that have led cities, states and this great country to where it is today – a huge cluster—-. What really makes you think that if a white is running a city, it would be in better shape? We have all seen what happens when white men get into power – greed, kickbacks, sweetheart deals, adultery, corrouption, etc – you get the picture. Altanta having black mayors is not the problem. The problem is that those white men who sit under the gold dome dont give a damn and would rather see Atlanta suffer versus working with a black elected official.
Blacks are poor and bad tippers? you are really digging, aren’t you. Check your stats buddy and let me know which part of society domininates the welfare roles? Just to give you a hint, I see the numbers on a regular basis, so make sure you have the correct figures.
Insurance market never made much? Have you looked at the real numbers of uninsured? Get real, you are truly pitiful. The way the insurance companies are conducting themselves, are you really proud of that industry. All they care is about is the bottom line and who gets screwed. And they are run by – wait a minute – white men.
You are out of your league with this one. Your examples are very pisspoor, typical right wing talking points. I would have thought you would have been a little more original with your rebuttal.
todd
January 1st, 2010
5:33 pm
Mr Attitude,
I would never defend any white politician we have in place because the vast majority of them are corrupt and morally bankrupt. They should ALL be replaced in my opinion. There are, however, thousands of examples of them that are financially solvent and well run. Most importantly, as a taxpayer I am not asked to pay more in taxes in most white run communities because of their fiscal stupidity. Also, I can walk down the streets without having to be armed. Instead of trying to give examples of bad behavior by whites as a dodge to not answer my question – how about providing a single black run big city that is not infested with crime and insolvent. It is time for the blacks in America to take responsibility for their actions and own up the fact that they are responsible for a huge percentage of the problems in this country. Once this is out on the table we can start to clean up the mess.
Anderson33
January 1st, 2010
5:44 pm
Mr. Attitude and Todd — you both have opened up “intelligent” dialogue — the two of you are the type of minds needed to clean up this mess.
It started with acknowledging that all people are needed to address this situation — because we “all” (black, white, brown, etc.) created it.
Mr Attitude
January 1st, 2010
5:50 pm
Todd,
We are in agreement on one thing – never defending a crooked politician regardless. And I also agree that they should be replaced and given term limits.
Now, it is time for ALL Americans to take responsibilities, not just blacks. Society’s ill will aren’t just black owned. All races need to “man up” with their problems. Saying that blacks are responsible for a huge part of problems in this country is a very inaccurate an asinine statement. If you want to get things out on the table, stop attaching a color to the problem and just deal with the problem, because I can ran the gauntlet on many of society’s problems and I can gurantee you whites would be a the top of MANY lists.
What is amazing me is that what makes you feel that if a white runs a city, it will be run successfully? Any administration is going to have its postivies and areas of opportunity? Are you trying to say that the Jackson and Young administrations were not run effectively?
Mr Attitude
January 1st, 2010
5:53 pm
Hey Anderson33,
If I lived in Atlanta, I would be very happy to be active working to address and bring solutions to the problems that Atlantans face.
Once we eliminate the mindset that problems have color, we can go a long way in finding common ground in getting the problems solved.
Anderson33
January 1st, 2010
6:12 pm
Mr. Attitude, I agree.
We all know (whether we admit it or not) that there are moral and politically corrupt politicians in both the “white” and “black” communities and all communities in-between.
I am not going to support a corrupt politican just because he/she is black — just as much as I am not going to condemn a great politician because he/she is white. If we need an example of “moral” political corruption in the white community, we need look no further than Glenn Richardson — if we need one in the black community, we need look no further than Bill Campbell (I am sure that both Mrs. Richardson & Mrs. Campbell would agree).
If we need examples of people who live each day in trying to do the right thing, than we need look no further than the “unsung” heroes of our community — the best examples are those found in the AJC’s 12 days of Holiday Heroes — these “heroes” don’t look at color, they look at “need” — they are the best example in showing that “goodness” comes in “all” colors.
NOBama 2012
January 1st, 2010
6:21 pm
Buckhead Fred getting angry. What time is the Black Panther meeting?
Mr Attitude
January 1st, 2010
6:28 pm
Anderson33,
I like your words and you have provided some good examples that corruptness knows no boundaries.
As long as good citizens don’t stand up and get some good people in office, the status quo will remain in effect.
I like the 12 heroes segment. That is what many of us should be doing on a regular basis.
Anderson33
January 1st, 2010
6:52 pm
Mr. Attitude, I have found that “Fear” will bring out both the “worst” and the “best” in people — it all depends on what is on the “inside” — because it’s what’s on the “inside” that will come out — this will always show you what a person is truly made of.
The current economy has put some people in a place they don’t like (or never been before) — many are unemployed and on the brink of poverty or bankrupcty. One might say that the “unemployed” have always been here — that is it true, however, we now have what is called the “new” unemployed. These are people who are in fear the most. We currently have Unemployment Extensions that are running into almost a 2 year time span with no relief in sight — most have never been “here” before.
I volunteered this week at a shelter, and was suprised to see my former “supervisor” in line for food. This is a man who until a year ago made $150K a year — the company he and I worked for went belly up and so did our 401(K) — Now, my former supervisor finds himself at 59 years of age and unemployed.
A lot of people on this board (not all) are lashing out because of fear.
I didn’t support Kasim Reed because I didn’t think he was experienced enough for the job — and I did not support Mary Norwood because I felt she was not competent for the job — color was not the issue.
Diogen
January 1st, 2010
7:14 pm
Mr. Negro Attitude wrote:
“What difference does my skin color make? Are you that simple minded? Never mind, dont answer that – I dont want you to be up all night thinking of an answer”
Skin color? Doesn’t make much difference to me. Race makes plenty, especially to you racist blacks who will vote for a convicted black felon over a Mary Norwood just ’cause she be white.
The rest of your tiresome anti-white blather, including lots of denying the facts you don’t like, I won’t bother with.
Diogen
January 1st, 2010
7:18 pm
NOBama2012 wrote:
“Buckhead Fred getting angry. What time is the Black Panther meeting?”
Yeah, notice how he whined on about my mentioning rib shacks etc., when he previously had no problem whatever with the “redneck” “doublewide” racist anti-white rhetoric. Just another racist black cluck who is apparently too stupid to see the irony.
Diogen
January 1st, 2010
7:23 pm
Anderson33 wrote:
“I volunteered this week at a shelter, and was suprised to see my former “supervisor” in line for food. This is a man who until a year ago made $150K a year”
Sounds very fish to me Anderson ol’ buddy. Are you just killing time with the cutesy posts?
Diogen
January 1st, 2010
7:23 pm
I meant to write “fishy” above. Comment still stands.
Anderson33
January 1st, 2010
7:26 pm
Hi Diogen, no, unfortunately I am not. At 49 years old and unemployed, I have a lot of time on my hands — to write on blogs and volunteer at shelters and soup kitchens.
I find it a compliment that you find my post “cutesy”.
Anderson33
January 1st, 2010
7:27 pm
It is sad my post sound “fishy” (or cutsey) because they are not riddled with hate or racism.
Buckhead Fred
January 1st, 2010
7:31 pm
Diogen, what time you goin to Captain D’s, pick up some Cannonball on the way!!! Dude!!
Buckhead Fred
January 1st, 2010
7:34 pm
Black Cluck, you are so funny!
Mr Attitude
January 1st, 2010
7:43 pm
Anderson33,
You have brought another perspective to the table that many people would never given thought. We have been so busy placing our current economy into color, idealogical, and regional silos, that we have become blinded by the real culprit.
I am reminded of the “famine” that we was experienced back in ‘93, which is a blip on the screen compared to now. I concur that many thought we would bounce back very quickly and for many Americans to be entering their 2nd year drawing umemployment is almost unfathomable.
If I lived in Atlanta, I would have cast a vote for Mr. Reed. I felt that Lisa Borders was a little to well-connected to the corporate world and Mary Norwood didnt do anything while she was on the council for 8 years, so why would I think she would make a difference as the mayor?
Like yourself, I have been able to work in some kitchens. It seems that the numbers keep increasing on a regular basis. Like you stated, our true culprit here is fear.
Anderson33
January 1st, 2010
7:59 pm
Mr. Attitude,
Now that Mr. Reed is mayor, I wish him all the best.
The “fear” is coming into place because not only is “Atlanta” changing, so is our “country” — and that is what is making a lot of people fearful and anxious.
Mr Attitude
January 1st, 2010
8:01 pm
Poor Diogen,
So blinded by racism. Just to help your iq, racism is a choice by nature, nothing else. As some have made mature attempts to keep the conversation civil, you believe by showing your racist side that you will upset some readers.
Like I stated, my race is irrelevant, but if you feel that you are the better person by calling me a negro, knock yourself out. That just shows me and others that you have little value to bring to an adult conversation.
Then you want to mock someone who gives of their time to serve others. From your statement, it is your type of selfishness that has placed this country to where it is today – think of self first, screw others.
Mr Attitude
January 1st, 2010
8:23 pm
Anderson33,
With your strength and resolve, you will be blessed in no time. Hopefully you will have something fall your way soon.
Anderson33
January 1st, 2010
8:31 pm
Mr. Attitude,
Thank you — your words of encouragement are very much appreciated.
Losing your job is very humbling…and I mean very humbling — and this experience has made me develop more patience and compassion for other people — even Diogen (smile).
Thanks again.
Hillbilly Deluxe
January 1st, 2010
8:50 pm
Anderson33
Adversity doesn’t build character; it reveals it. You seem to be doing just fine in that category.
Anderson33
January 1st, 2010
9:10 pm
Hillbilly Deluxe…thank you.
scott
January 2nd, 2010
12:28 am
NOT ONLY IS ATLANTA THE NEXT DETROIT ..ITS RACIAL ATTITUDES ALSO PUT YOU IN MIND OF DETROIT…THIER IS SO MUCH RACIAL TENSION IN DETROIT BETWEEN BLACK AND WHITE THAT NOTHING EVER GETS DONE AND ITS THE SAME WAY IN ATLANTA NOW…BOTH RACES BLAMING THE OTHER…BUT IN BEAUTIFUL SEATTLE..THEY WORK TOGETHER BLACK,WHITE,ASIAN, SUBURBS AND THE CITY..AND LOOK AT THE RESULTS WHEN YOU WORK TOGETHER…SEATTLE IS A BEAUTIFUL,STUNNING WELL RUN CITY,WITH LOW CRIME..AND A AWSOME DOWNTOWN THAT IS SO VIBRANT AND ELECTRIC AND EXCITING..SEATTLE DOESNT EVEN SEEM LIKE AN AMERICAN CITY..I DID NOT WANT TO LEAVE ..ITS SURROUNDED BY WATER AND MOUNTAINS ABSOLUTLY STUNNING !!!ATLANTA PLEASE COPY THIS PLACE CALLED SEATTLE….
Chris Broe
January 2nd, 2010
8:03 am
Posting to oneself? That is the destiny of most blogs: A loon squats on a comment board and lays a bunch of eggs. That’s why the AJC has authorized me to invent a new board-police game called, “Name that Loon”. Yes, Name That Loon is a game in which the contestants try to ID posting to himself, you know, using multiple aliases to make it look like there’s a discussion going on when in reality it’s one person asking and answering questions and taking two or three sides in a debate. There are dead giveaways so it’s not fair for an experienced blogger like me to point them out, but for others, the learning process is helped along by making it fun.
Name that Loon. Rules and sample game: The rules are identicle to the rules in the bridge of the 60’s pop hit, “The Name Game”. Sample game:
“I can name that Loon in 5 comments”. (I can name that loon in 4 comments). “I can name that loon in 3 comments.
Name that loon.
It’s easy, and fun.
Anyone wanna play? Go ‘head. I have to recuse myself because I know exactly which finger-dab from the Bookman blog this slow hand is, so it just wouldn’t be fair, or fun.
Have at it.
Check out the Peach Pundit today. Eric clobbered Ox today about a twitter message that went full Bush. Great stuff.
The Peach Pundit is a very interesting blog. I recommend it as required clicking. It’s easy to find, just go to Wooten Clone blog and turn right.
Jklol
Curious Observer
January 2nd, 2010
8:40 am
Gee. I didn’t know federal workers were so well paid. I wonder why they have to make “locality adjustments” to federal pay just to make federal jobs competitive on the lower end of the pay scale. They must be looking at private sector jobs in some other country. Thanks, Wooten, for pointing out this obvious error. Or could it be that the federal work force isn’t loaded up with store clerks and road workers and meter readers, etc.? Hmmmm. I’m going to have to look into this. I’m sure all those medical doctors at CDC and the specialists in statistics and all those other people in federal jobs would be willing to work for the private sector average wage. A worker’s a worker, right?
jconservative
January 2nd, 2010
8:56 am
“Music to our ears. A conservative who is reliably conservative.”
Do not get carried away Mr. Wooten. We have heard all of this before. Talk is really cheap, action is really expensive, so not much of it is seen.
You remember the election of 1980 I am sure. Conservative guy from California running for president of the US, said all the proper Conservative lines in the campaign. You remember, right? Then came the inauguration & that fellow became President. And what did we get?
Eight years of Liberal government. The invention of tax cuts/increased spending as a national budget policy. The expansion of liberal Medicare/Medicaid and Social Security way beyond their intended scope.
You remember this, right? Right?
Beware of the wolf in sheep’s’ clothing.
Patrick
January 2nd, 2010
9:15 am
“The gap between public- and private-sector compensation grows. In 2008, the average pay for federal civilian employees was $79,197. For those in the private sector, it was $50,028″
I thought we were talking about local governments, so I don’t see how federal employee compensation even realtes to this article, but anyways……
You are comparing apples to oranges, maybe if you compared gov’t employee income of one field to private sector income of the SAME FIELD you would be making a valid point(and you would see gov’t employees are generally paid less)
But as it is you are comparing the median income of a group which includes very few non-college grads to a group which contains McDonalds fry cooks. It is a VERY fallacious argument and you know this.
@@
January 2nd, 2010
9:34 am
So….when Reed takes over Franklin’s left behind, is he gonna constantly crack on with the “her fault” line like Obama? Good luck to Mayor Reed. Talk is cheap, governing is difficult. Make the tough decisions, and don’t expect everyone to love you for ‘em.
I read an article yesterday that Gov. Schwarzenegger out on the left coast has attempted to cut government spending by putting state employees on furlough (3 days a month). Lawsuits by the SEIU are coming in fast and furious. Unions eat their own, and don’t much care non-union folks.
I can’t begin to tell you how disappointed I am in the Blue Dog Dems. I really believed there were, at least, some dems with principles. Nelson said he stood firm on his. Later he traded ‘em in for pork. Hope he enjoys the buffet. Nebraskans are NOT happy. He’s on his way out.
There’s still drama down here in Clayton. I’ll have to tune in to the sequel. I do like Eldrin though. He puts the consequences aside and makes the tough decisions.
Happy New Year, Jim.
ch
January 2nd, 2010
11:50 am
I wonder if this is why the “Milton County” recreation is being resurrected…
ch
January 2nd, 2010
11:55 am
Looks like Atlanta ranked number 4 in this years “America’s Most Literate Cities” survey…
Seattle
Minneapolis
Washington D.C.
Atlanta
San Francisco
Jess
January 2nd, 2010
12:20 pm
98degree,
Google federal employee salaries. You will find numerous sites which back up Jim’s statements.
Jess
January 2nd, 2010
12:25 pm
Patrick,
The feds have plenty of jobs of a fry cook’s skill level. They just pay them much more than their worth.
Jess
January 2nd, 2010
12:32 pm
Curious,
Sounds like you are implying that all the private Doctors and medical workers in the country were not included in the survey. If this is not what you are implying, then your post makes no sense as there are many many more doctors in the private sector than in the public.
97degreeyogurt
January 2nd, 2010
1:55 pm
Jess–The median wage needs to be used due to methodological faults that I have identified in an earlier post–(there are many more private sector employees and many of them make low wages, drastically lowering the average).
Until that is resolved the point people like you are trying to make is moot.
Jess
January 2nd, 2010
2:56 pm
97,
I wasn’t making a point. I was making an onservation about a specific post.
Na'Tricianna Ma'Khayvighnon Philpot
January 3rd, 2010
8:18 am
If we run all the white reople out who will pay the taxes?
Bob
January 3rd, 2010
8:44 am
Mr.attitude, whats wrong with dirivetives, Obos econ advisor, larry Summers was involved in a dirivetive meltdown while Clinton was in the white house. He, Robert Rubin and Greenspan all knew the danger of them but did nothing to stop them. Now we see Larry Summers living large in another administration telling us the way to go.
Democrats are Corrupt, Repukes are Lying Scum
January 3rd, 2010
10:30 am
Why do democracies fail? Because the people learn that they can elect people who promise to give them more and more goodies, until the democracy is bankrupt. Takes about 200 years + or – 40 or so. Our time is running out.
Democrats are Corrupt, Repukes are Lying Scum
January 3rd, 2010
10:36 am
Bob, first step is to learn to spell derivative, then you can work on the plural form, followed by learning the definition of derivative. Now remember AIG? Our 400 billion dollar bailout of AIG was to pay off derivative bets with Goldman Sachs. Our money went in the front door at AIG, and immediately out the back door to Goldman. Oh yeah, work on your contractions too, the contraction for “what is” should be “what’s” not “whats”. Ok, you can take a break in your learning now, let those neurons rest.
Corey
January 3rd, 2010
1:06 pm
Despite the name calling and finger pointing on this blog things do get done in Atlanta. The long, overdue overhaul(a massive endeavor)of the sewer system is underway as we peck out our racist diatribes on our keyboards. We did get the fifth runway built under budget and ahead of schedule. The new international terminal is slated to be completed in 2012. The massive rental car facility and people mover sky train are operational. The murder rate, although a single digit figure is too many, is lower than it has been in decades. Mayor Franklin has reduced the number of city employees by over 2800. The city no longer has to foot the bill of holding detainess who are charged with state crimes. The beltline project is tangibly nascent. Public housing projects are now history. We will build the Peachtree St. streetcar line. Why people take delight in hoping Atlanta go the way of Detroit is beyond me. Atlanta is still the jewel of the new south. I attended the peach drop and noticed people of various backgrounds and ages having a good time at “dreadful” Underground. People from Tennessee and Virginia in town for the game certainly were enjoying themselves and packed the MARTA trains without trepidation. No, things are not perfect and much remains to be done. Isn’t Gwinnett is raising property taxes? Cobb County will surely follow. Money is tight everywhere, not just black run cities. Just ask Mayor Boolmberg or Gov. Purdue. Thank God for visionaries both black and white who made this metro city a great place instead of the naysayers with racial chips on their shoulders. Andy Young, with his international ties while serving as U.N. Ambassador, is to be highly commended for putting Metro Atlanta on the international map. Have a nice day everybody.
Elegia More
January 3rd, 2010
1:12 pm
Wait, there is a distinct difference between Detroit and Atlanta.
The deserted/empty office buildings in downtown ATLANTA are new…
Ragnar Danneskjöld
January 3rd, 2010
9:07 pm
Happy New Year from the swamp. I am too late to contribute meaningfully to the strange racial exchange on this blog. I fear there are many who attribute Chauncey Gardener’s incompetence to his pigment; surely no rational soul suggests that Dr. Sowell or Dr. Walter E Williams would have made economic decisions even remotely similar to the disasters foisted on America by our current overlords.
My great sadness is that Herman Cain was not elected years ago, to prevent such mindless racial hostility as we see regularly in this city. The cure for white folks who detest incompetent black leadership would be competent black leadership. While “competent” means something more than “conservative,” it would rarely be an attribute of a leftist.
Cutty
January 4th, 2010
9:41 am
If Wooten was any kind of journalist he’d already know that Atlanta ONLY offers its new employees a Defined Contribution Plan as opposed to a Defined Benefit Plan. More empty rhetoric from an empty cardigan.
david wayne osedach
January 4th, 2010
9:47 am
I’ve seen auctions for homes in Detroit with some houses as low as $500 going unsold!
Wow
January 4th, 2010
9:54 am
Is Wooten saying the klan’s actions are ok? Wow!
monroedrive
January 4th, 2010
12:25 pm
For the record, none of the appointed members of the Atlanta Citizens Review Board receive any remuneration. I looked it up.
Kasim
January 4th, 2010
2:09 pm
Citizens of Atlanta, I would like to thank you for ignoring my situation involving back taxes (I had to pay those damn things in order to run for mayor of Atlanta) & put me in charge of operating this city with fiscal responsibility. I promise I will do better as Mayor than I did in the Senate!!!
Chris Broe
January 5th, 2010
8:13 am
Ragnar’s racism manages to be both self-aggrandized AND intellectualized! If only he had sewn Keynes into his comment, it coulda served as his autobiography.
Oh, brother where fore art thou?
Angry Black Man
January 5th, 2010
10:05 am
I am black and sick of white people hating on Obama. I don’t like Obama either but here is what’s really wrong with the country, see below:
I am greatful for my job, however, the people in this country do not understand monetary policy and the detrimental things that banks, the federal reserve and the federal government are doing to destroy the dollar and the economy. Here is my list of top 10 things most Americans are oblivious to:
1. The creation of money out of thin air is inflating the money supply and will cause hyperinflation, just wait. Most of you idiots still think we’re on the gold standard, if you even know what that means!
2. The Federal Reserve and the IRS income tax are both unconstitutional. The US Constitution gave the power to create currency to Congress but these crooks gave the power to the Federal Reserve.
3. Democrat vs. Republican- Hey you idiots? Have you ever heard of political atheism? Democrats and Republicans alike have both done severe damage to the American way of life. Don’t you dummies get it? The Elite bankers who control everything (media, government, etc) want bickering and fighting amongst the people. Think about it, as long as we are divided politically, we can never achieve real change, dummies!
4. Money is debt and debt is money. Most of idiots do not understand where money comes from. Of course the mint prints currency, but that’s not what I’m referring to. Each time a back makes a loan, new money is created. Did you know that? Money is created out of debt!
5. Fractional reserve banking is causing inflation also. When you make a depostit at your local bank, they are only required to keep a percentage of that amount in reserves. The rest can be loaned out at interest which creates money out of thin air.
6. The President has no real power, only the Banking Elite has the real power. Obama is nothing more than a puppet and you dumb ass white people are still talking about him being a Socialist. Obama is the least of our problems.
7. Most politicians do not understand monetary policy and they are nothing but crooks who take bribes from lobbyists. The politicians in DC are only interested in fattening their pockets. Think about it-Why would a politician spend millions of dollars to fund a campaign for a six figure salary?
8. Gold and Silver is the only “real” money. Have you dummies checked the price of gold lately? Of course not, I know you had to catch the last episode of ” Dancing with the Stars” or “Desperate Housewives” or maybe “American Idol” re-runs. The dumbing down of America is obvious as most Americans probabaly do not know their state governor.
9. NAFTA, or the North American Free Trade Agreement is one of the reasons why most of the American manufacturing jobs have been outsourced to other nations. We have a 40 billion dollar trade deficit with Mexico? Do you know why? America doesn’t make anything, I mean anything! What do we produce? We only produce hate, not products that could be exported and traded on the open market. Hey dummies, ever wondered why most items in your house say “Made in China” or “Made in Mexico”. That’s why!
10. Cap and trade is nothing but a huge tax increase on energy production. I’m a black African-American male and I think Ron Paul would’ve been the best President for this nation. A lot of white people are stupid and just don’t like Obama because he is black. You should not like Obama because he doesn’t understand monetary policy and is ruining our currency with continuous bailouts and federal spending.
Republicans and Democrats are nothing but idiots who do not understand the real problems in this country. Be a Political Atheist and do what’s right for this country, not what appeals to a party. Dummies!
Sincerely,
Angry black Man
Corey
January 5th, 2010
1:58 pm
Angry Black Man, it’s the nature of the beast aka politics. Ron Paul would have learned that only after a couple of months on the job. Global politics have become national and local politics. Without a worldwide revolution we are stuck with it regardless of the party affiliation of the resident at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave.
Freedom Line Blog » Morning Links
January 6th, 2010
8:49 am
[...] Journal-Constitution – Don’t Let Detroit be Our Future Newt Gingrich – Obama’s Profoundly Wrong Policies Washington Examiner – Dems Negotiate [...]
William in Lithonia
January 25th, 2010
4:41 pm
2 Steps to restore the American Economy: Learn from what has worked in America!
#1: Bring back the reasonable tariffs that protected American jobs since the founding of our country. Before the IRS, most of the Federal Government’s income was from tariffs. This would also help our budget deficit as cutting tariffs helped cause our deficit.
#2. Restore the Reagan Tax Cuts. Ronald Reagan actually stopped trickle down because before he cut the top tax rate from 74% to 29%, the wealthy would reinvest their profits in their business rather than pay taxes. They would build new buildings or pay their employees better to improve their business. The wealth trickled down when the wealthy were taxed. We the workers earn that money and have a right to the benefits of our labor.
The Republican Reagan Revolution re-distributed the wealth from the workers of America to the top 1% – what Republicans call ‘their base’, their Al-Queda, Multinational Corporations with no allegance to this country. The game, our economy, is tilted in their favor. We must re-inact the rules that protected the middle class.