Bachmann: Obama Wants to Use BP Spill As 'Permanent ATM Card'

Bachmann: Obama Wants to Use BP Spill As ‘Permanent ATM Card’

PoliticsJune 2010 • Views: 3,077

The GOP Cornucopia of Crazy around the BP oil spill continues unabated, with yet another boneheaded statement by Michele Bachmann (R-Mars).

Rep. Michele Bachmann (R-Minn.) on Wednesday warned the Obama administration against using oil giant BP as a ‘permanent ATM card’ and more broadly alleged there are increasing federal efforts to “take over private industry.”

The comments by Bachmann – a popular figure among conservative Tea Party activists – followed BP’s agreement under White House pressure to place $20 billion into a new escrow fund for damage claims from the Gulf of Mexico oil spill.

Bachmann said on the CNN program “John King, USA” that BP must pay for damages, but added, “We don’t want these payouts to become political.”

“We don’t think it’s a good idea for the federal government to see private industry as essentially a piggy bank for the federal government,” she said.

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159 comments

Kragar Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:15:03am

/facepalm

albusteve Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:15:38am

padding her stats again….she’s sure to win when she runs

Targetpractice Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:16:13am

You’re focusing only on the Right! The Left’s got crazies too! I can’t believe that this site has become just another Lefty echo chamber!!

///

Kragar Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:16:39am

How’s that “Light Brigade” thing going?

jamesfirecat Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:19:16am

re: #4 Kragar (Proud to be Kafir)

How’s that “Light Brigade” thing going?

About as well as the real one, I’d guess….

albusteve Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:20:14am

re: #4 Kragar (Proud to be Kafir)

How’s that “Light Brigade” thing going?

we’ll, I’m not so sure the GOP has a losing strategy…a few bumps here and there, but the big show starts this fall

Cato the Elder Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:20:33am

A Republican crazy fool, Bachmann,
Thinks that folks really buy her dumb crock, man.
Whilst hunting for witches.
She has me in stitches -
This twit who can’t wind her own clock, man!

TheMatrix31 Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:21:19am

re: #7 Cato the Elder

You’re funny, bro.

albusteve Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:21:21am

re: #5 jamesfirecat

About as well as the real one, I’d guess…

I’m glad other people have more confidence than me!

tdg2112 Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:22:23am

dang. I’m really wondering what is going to happen during the election time.

Some of this crazy talk I see is just stirring up the base, but reveling in the craziness of the base really makes me wonder. Despite what Republicans may say, they have an extremely sofisticated polling department. Or have they ditched it?

Part of me wants to see them keep wooping it up like this. but another makes me wonder if somewhere somehow they don’t have a good idea of waht they’re doing, or worse yet that it will work.

OldnGrumpy Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:25:08am

Woohooo

Mr. Bachmann
Maybe we can get BP to pay off the national debt too.

/sarc

darthstar Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:25:50am

I love Michelle Bachmann. I can’t wait until her sex tapes leak out to the Youtubes…you know anyone that bat-shit crazy has to be into some major kink.

OldnGrumpy Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:27:31am

Oooops

Ms not Mr

PIMF

webevintage Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:27:43am

I just don’t get the mentallity that requires one to oppose EVERYTHING the President does or proposes. It is just nuts and I thin in the end counterproductive.

BBL

darthstar Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:28:35am

re: #7 Cato the Elder

A Republican crazy fool, Bachmann,
Thinks that folks really buy her dumb crock, man.
Whilst hunting for witches.
She has me in stitches -
This twit who can’t wind her own clock, man!

Copyright © 2010 Cato the Elder

Ooh…Limericks…lemme try one…

There once was this lady, Michelle,
Who put her constituents through hell,
You’d think it would hurt her,
To pose with a birther,
But she found standing with Orly was swell!

Feline Fearless Leader Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:28:37am

re: #10 tdg2112

dang. I’m really wondering what is going to happen during the election time.

Some of this crazy talk I see is just stirring up the base, but reveling in the craziness of the base really makes me wonder. Despite what Republicans may say, they have an extremely sofisticated polling department. Or have they ditched it?

Part of me wants to see them keep wooping it up like this. but another makes me wonder if somewhere somehow they don’t have a good idea of waht they’re doing, or worse yet that it will work.

I want all of it to fail in an extraordinary fashion. And any Democrat candidates running on the basis of demagoguery and crank science to fail horribly as well. I’d much prefer to live in a country with the political scene runs on rational discourse rather than the equivalent of small children throwing tantrums and screaming at each other. And as long as the latter appears to work things will not change.

TheMatrix31 Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:29:21am

re: #15 darthstar

That was better than the old man’s. Not too difficult to accomplish though.

Killgore Trout Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:29:37am

re: #14 webevintage

I just don’t get the mentallity that requires one to oppose EVERYTHING the President does or proposes. It is just nuts and I thin in the end counterproductive.

BBL

The wingnuts decided on this course a while ago.

Sol Berdinowitz Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:34:06am

re: #18 Killgore Trout

The wingnuts decided on this course a while ago.

Reminds me of Monty Python’s “Argument Clinic” sketch

“If you want to have an argument, I have to take up a contrary position”

“But it just saying ‘no it isn’t’!”

“Yes it is”

“No it isn’t!”

In any case, since when is asking those who profit from the Free Enterprise system to be responsible for their actions (the very essence of said system) suddently some sort of government money-grab?

albusteve Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:34:35am

re: #18 Killgore Trout

The wingnuts decided on this course a while ago.

Newt/Palin ‘12!

lawhawk Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:34:52am

She’s turnin’ it overdrive.

Fozzie Bear Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:35:14am

America is long overdue for a public discussion of externalities in our economy.

This is the “other shoe” to the laissez-faire foot, imo.

TheMatrix31 Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:35:23am

Well, time to watch Mexico beat the fuck out of the Frenchies. Later.

Sol Berdinowitz Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:35:24am

re: #21 lawhawk

She’s turnin’ it overdrive.

You ain’t seen nothin’ yet, b-b-b-baby…

albusteve Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:35:53am

re: #21 lawhawk

She’s turnin’ it overdrive.

giddyup giddyup 409

Sol Berdinowitz Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:36:11am

re: #23 TheMatrix31

Well, time to watch Mexico beat the fuck out of the Frenchies. Later.

I can well imagine there will be a lull in traffic across the AZ border for the nest hour…

Charles Johnson Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:37:20am

Allahpundit is having a little lesson in how crazy the GOP base has gotten. And it’s partly his fault, of course.

Nimed Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:38:04am

re: #12 darthstar

I love Michelle Bachmann. I can’t wait until her sex tapes leak out to the Youtubes…you know anyone that bat-shit crazy has to be into some major kink.

Did you have to go there? Oh, well… In the future, you might want to illustrate that point with this photo.

Image: michele-bachmann-cuhrazy.jpg

The combination of the tight pearl necklace and the crazy eyes is pretty suggestive.

Charles Johnson Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:38:32am

There’s hamburger all over Allahpundit’s Twitter page. [Link: twitter.com…]

Cato the Elder Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:39:23am

re: #8 TheMatrix31

You’re funny, bro.

You just noticed?

OldnGrumpy Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:39:48am

Found this at the Onion,funny schiz.

[Link: www.theonion.com…]

If true then that dude is really,really stoopid

Charles Johnson Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:40:48am

How long before the wingnuts start gibbering that “Allahpundit has gone ‘Charles Johnson’ on us?”

TheMatrix31 Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:40:48am

re: #30 Cato the Elder

Well, I’m dumber than a bag of hammers, so it takes a while for me to realize how incredible you truly are, I guess.

Mad Al-Jaffee Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:45:54am

re: #24 ralphieboy

You ain’t seen nothin’ yet, b-b-b-baby…

Is she takin’ care of business?

reine.de.tout Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:49:08am

Oh, wow.
Interesting testimony just now.

Schlumberger sent out a crew to do a cement bonding log.
BP said we don’t need this, we will send your people home on a helicopter tomorrow.

Schlumberger said nope, our folks are coming home now, and Schlumberger paid for their own helicopter to go get their people OFF THE RIG!

Wow.

Schlumberger knew how dangerous BP’s actions were, and got their people OFF the rig. Then it blew up.

Wow. I don’t think anyone realizes just what that reveals.

lawhawk Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:49:49am

re: #34 Mad Al-Jaffee

Well, she’s getting 15 yards for giving the business.

Youtube Video

lawhawk Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:51:02am

re: #35 reine.de.tout

Wow is right - gross negligence if not wilfull reckless disregard for standard procedures.

albusteve Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:52:10am

who’s Schlumberger again?

darthstar Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:52:25am

re: #17 TheMatrix31

That was better than the old man’s. Not too difficult to accomplish though.

re: #35 reine.de.tout

Oh, wow.
Interesting testimony just now.

Schlumberger sent out a crew to do a cement bonding log.
BP said we don’t need this, we will send your people home on a helicopter tomorrow.

Schlumberger said nope, our folks are coming home now, and Schlumberger paid for their own helicopter to go get their people OFF THE RIG!

Wow.

Schlumberger knew how dangerous BP’s actions were, and got their people OFF the rig. Then it blew up.

Wow. I don’t think anyone realizes just what that reveals.

That sounds like evidence they’ll be able to use for the criminal trial.

Charles Johnson Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:52:52am

If you noticed things get really slow for a couple of minutes, I just caught a web bot using up major resources, loading everything it could as fast as possible. IP traces to Romania, now blocked.

darthstar Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:53:06am

re: #39 darthstar

Crap…had an extra quote up there that didn’t belong. Sorry for the confusion, Matrix and Reine

McSpiff Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:53:24am

re: #35 reine.de.tout

Oh, wow.
Interesting testimony just now.

Schlumberger sent out a crew to do a cement bonding log.
BP said we don’t need this, we will send your people home on a helicopter tomorrow.

Schlumberger said nope, our folks are coming home now, and Schlumberger paid for their own helicopter to go get their people OFF THE RIG!

Wow.

Schlumberger knew how dangerous BP’s actions were, and got their people OFF the rig. Then it blew up.

Wow. I don’t think anyone realizes just what that reveals.

Can’t watch any live streams at work, but I had heard this before and thought it turned out to be a regular BP operated flight, regularly scheduled flight? Is that officially not the case now?

HoosierHoops Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:53:35am

This is bad..Top kill will never work because of the pressure….I’m not getting that warm and fuzzy feeling that another cap will work prior to relief drilling…
Reine: What does Roi say?

reine.de.tout Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:53:57am

re: #37 lawhawk

Wow is right - gross negligence if not wilfull reckless disregard for standard procedures.

Well, AND
The helicopters are very expensive.
Normal procedure is the helicopters go out, drop people off, pick people from several rigs, with each company paying a pro-rated portion of the flight.

I’ve never heard of a company chartering a helicopter specifically to get its people off a rig, not even when a person has a family emergency at home. It’s done only when there’s a medical emergency and an employee needs to get back to a hospital, as far as I know.

This action by Schlumberger had to be a HUGE red flag. Ignored, like all the others.

McSpiff Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:53:59am

re: #38 albusteve

who’s Schlumberger again?

Oilfield services firm.

reine.de.tout Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:54:46am

re: #42 McSpiff

Can’t watch any live streams at work, but I had heard this before and thought it turned out to be a regular BP operated flight, regularly scheduled flight? Is that officially not the case now?

Testimony just now - Schlumberger apparently chartered their own helicopter.

darthstar Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:55:07am

re: #45 McSpiff

Oilfield services firm.

[Link: www.slb.com…]

Mad Al-Jaffee Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:56:05am

re: #40 Charles

If you noticed things get really slow for a couple of minutes, I just caught a web bot using up major resources, loading everything it could as fast as possible. IP traces to Romania, now blocked.

I got an error message right after my last post that this page couldn’t load. When I refreshed I had to log back in.

Cato the Elder Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:57:01am

re: #33 TheMatrix31

Well, I’m dumber than a bag of hammers, so it takes a while for me to realize how incredible you truly are, I guess.

When I publish my collected LGF poems, I shall dedicate the book to you.

Will that make you love me?

reine.de.tout Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:57:38am

re: #43 HoosierHoops

This is bad..Top kill will never work because of the pressure…I’m not getting that warm and fuzzy feeling that another cap will work prior to relief drilling…
Reine: What does Roi say?

The relief well is what we need to wait for.
I believe there is some indication that the damage to the well underground is bigger than what’s been completely revealed, which is why they’ve given up on stabbing a new BOP.
Relief well is only option.

albusteve Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:57:41am

re: #45 McSpiff

Oilfield services firm.

thanks

Mad Al-Jaffee Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:57:43am

re: #49 Cato the Elder

When I publish my collected LGF poems, I shall dedicate the book to you.

Will that make you love me?

I assumed you would dedicate it to Summer.

Cato the Elder Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:57:52am

re: #40 Charles

If you noticed things get really slow for a couple of minutes, I just caught a web bot using up major resources, loading everything it could as fast as possible. IP traces to Romania, now blocked.

Maybe ZOMGitsCriss, looking for hot guys here on LGF?

Cato the Elder Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:58:41am

re: #50 reine.de.tout

Reine, did you see my FB reply to you?

reine.de.tout Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:58:51am

re: #32 Charles

How long before the wingnuts start gibbering that “Allahpundit has gone ‘Charles Johnson’ on us?”

Looks to me like someone just posted “RINO’ to him.

McSpiff Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:59:21am

re: #46 reine.de.tout

Testimony just now - Schlumberger apparently chartered their own helicopter.

Schlumberger chartered their own helicopter, to get their own guys out of there. That’s insane. There is a manager, or corporate type who approved a very large, very unusual expense there who deserves a very nice raise.

reine.de.tout Thu, Jun 17, 2010 11:59:27am

re: #54 Cato the Elder

Reine, did you see my FB reply to you?

OOps, yes.
thank you
{cato}
hugs and kisses
smooches,
etc etc etc.

Interesting Times Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:00:17pm

re: #45 McSpiff

Oilfield services firm.

From a page on their site:

Heat emanating from the Earth’s core is within reach from nearly everywhere on the planet’s surface. As a consequence, it theoretically has the potential to replace a certain percentage of the hydrocarbons now burned for electricity generation while creating almost no greenhouse gas emissions.

Schlumberger believes in workplace safety and AGW? OMG they’re socialists!!!!1!1!!

reine.de.tout Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:00:18pm

re: #56 McSpiff

Schlumberger chartered their own helicopter, to get their own guys out of there. That’s insane. There is a manager, or corporate type who approved a very large, very unusual expense there who deserves a very nice raise.

Yes.

reine.de.tout Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:00:46pm

re: #58 publicityStunted

Schlumberger believes in workplace safety and AGW? OMG they’re socialists!!!1!1!!

Schlumberger owns the company the Roi works for.

Spider Mensch Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:01:22pm

re: #40 Charles

If you noticed things get really slow for a couple of minutes, I just caught a web bot using up major resources, loading everything it could as fast as possible. IP traces to Romania, now blocked.

“darn gypsees!! watch out for them, they’ll go in a revolving door behind you, and come out ahead of you!”

/A Bunker

Cato the Elder Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:01:32pm

re: #52 Mad Al-Jaffee

I assumed you would dedicate it to Summer.

Summer and I are like this: >

Mad Al-Jaffee Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:02:14pm

re: #62 Cato the Elder

Summer and I are like this: >

Is that supposed to be a “greater tnah” sign?

McSpiff Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:02:51pm

re: #59 reine.de.tout

Yes.

You know what, I want him to testify before congress. Explain why he thought this was such an extraordinary circumstance as to warrant that flight. And then to say that BP knew the same thing.

And then give him that raise.

Mostly sane, most of the time. Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:02:59pm

re: #56 McSpiff

Schlumberger chartered their own helicopter, to get their own guys out of there. That’s insane. There is a manager, or corporate type who approved a very large, very unusual expense there who deserves a very nice raise.

That, and some pictures of those workers at their children’s next birthday parties.

Mad Al-Jaffee Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:03:07pm

re: #63 Mad Al-Jaffee

Is that supposed to be a “greater tnah” sign?

greater than

PIMF

HoosierHoops Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:03:44pm

re: #62 Cato the Elder

Summer and I are like this: >

I know one thing..Summer is a great writer..She knows parody and has cutting wit..

CuriousLurker Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:07:08pm

Apparently BP disagrees with Barton & Bachmann.

[Link: thehill.com…]

BP CEO Tony Hayward disavowed a top Republican’s characterization of a $20 billion relief fund the company will establish as a “slush fund.”

Hayward rejected Rep. Joe Barton’s (R-Texas) controversial remarks this morning in which he criticized the account in escrow the oil company will create to pay out damages to victims of the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico.

“I certainly didn’t think it was a slush fund,” Hayward said this afternoon during an appearance before a congressional committee.

reine.de.tout Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:09:37pm

Hayward trying to miminize the Schluberger helicopter.
A company chartering a helicopter to get its employees off a rig, when they know the employees will be sent home the next day at another company’s expense, is a huge deal.

acacia Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:10:12pm

How is this a cornucopia of crazy? Reasonalbe people can agree or disagree with her assessment but it is hardly unreasonalbe to conclude that the spill is becoming a political football. Insisting on a huge payment by BP in advance and in a government controlled fund is not normal and even if you think it’s a good idea, she makes a valid point about fear of government takeover - or at least significant control - of rivate industry. If this is “crazy” then you might as well call any criticism of government crazy.

Fozzie Bear Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:11:00pm

re: #70 acacia

It’s crazy.

Apparently so are you.

Idle Drifter Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:11:05pm

re: #35 reine.de.tout

Oh, wow.
Interesting testimony just now.

Schlumberger sent out a crew to do a cement bonding log.
BP said we don’t need this, we will send your people home on a helicopter tomorrow.

Schlumberger said nope, our folks are coming home now, and Schlumberger paid for their own helicopter to go get their people OFF THE RIG!

Wow.

Schlumberger knew how dangerous BP’s actions were, and got their people OFF the rig. Then it blew up.

Wow. I don’t think anyone realizes just what that reveals.

Yup, Schlumberger was a good company to work for before being laid off little of a year ago. Which is why I want to finish a degree in engineering and get back to working for them . They took safety very seriously and every employee had the right to stop production if they felt something was unsafe. 80% of my training was safety oriented. You can’t even drive in your own vehicle going to a rig site without going to their Kellyville Driver Safety center. They had a skid plate for training truck drivers on how to deal with ice while hauling a full load!

darthstar Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:12:06pm

re: #70 acacia

How is this a cornucopia of crazy? Reasonalbe people can agree or disagree with her assessment but it is hardly unreasonalbe to conclude that the spill is becoming a political football. Insisting on a huge payment by BP in advance and in a government controlled fund is not normal and even if you think it’s a good idea, she makes a valid point about fear of government takeover - or at least significant control - of rivate industry. If this is “crazy” then you might as well call any criticism of government crazy.

Are you trying to argue that Michelle Bachmann isn’t bat-shit crazy? Good luck with that.

albusteve Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:12:38pm

re: #71 Fozzie Bear

It’s crazy.

Apparently so are you.

not very nice…you have any manners?

darthstar Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:12:47pm

Barton’s back on!

darthstar Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:13:45pm

GO(B)P

HoosierHoops Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:13:48pm

Barton is on

acacia Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:13:50pm

re: #71 Fozzie Bear

Just tell me why it’s crazy and provided your explanation is not just a rehash of a political disagreement on how to address the spill I might listen to you.

reine.de.tout Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:13:55pm

re: #72 Idle Drifter

Yup, Schlumberger was a good company to work for before being laid off little of a year ago. Which is why I want to finish a degree in engineering and get back to working for them . They took safety very seriously and every employee had the right to stop production if they felt something was unsafe. 80% of my training was safety oriented. You can’t even drive in your own vehicle going to a rig site without going to their Kellyville Driver Safety center. They had a skid plate for training truck drivers on how to deal with ice while hauling a full load!

Exactly.
The Roi has told me time and again that he can stop operations, with the full backing of his company, if he knows things are dangerous.

He’s got to take driver safety courses, and a helicopter bail-out course every year (he’s in a helicopter, it’s turned upside down, plunged into a pool of water, and everybody has to get out while in this position). Not fun. But absolutely necessary.

McSpiff Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:14:02pm

re: #70 acacia

How is this a cornucopia of crazy? Reasonalbe people can agree or disagree with her assessment but it is hardly unreasonalbe to conclude that the spill is becoming a political football. Insisting on a huge payment by BP in advance and in a government controlled fund is not normal and even if you think it’s a good idea, she makes a valid point about fear of government takeover - or at least significant control - of rivate industry. If this is “crazy” then you might as well call any criticism of government crazy.

In advance of what?

Idle Drifter Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:14:49pm

Youtube Video

Kellyville.

McSpiff Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:15:06pm

re: #79 reine.de.tout

Exactly.
The Roi has told me time and again that he can stop operations, with the full backing of his company, if he knows things are dangerous.

He’s got to take driver safety courses, and a helicopter bail-out course every year (he’s in a helicopter, it’s turned upside down, plunged into a pool of water, and everybody has to get out while in this position). Not fun. But absolutely necessary.

Hehe maybe I’m just young and stupid, but we actually bought a session in that training course in a charity auction. I had a good time with it.

reine.de.tout Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:16:00pm

re: #70 acacia

How is this a cornucopia of crazy? Reasonalbe people can agree or disagree with her assessment but it is hardly unreasonalbe to conclude that the spill is becoming a political football. Insisting on a huge payment by BP in advance and in a government controlled fund is not normal and even if you think it’s a good idea, she makes a valid point about fear of government takeover - or at least significant control - of rivate industry. If this is “crazy” then you might as well call any criticism of government crazy.

This is a cornucopia of crazy.
There are reasonable differences to have with the administration over how this is being handled. I have one, and have tried to back it up with facts and arguments, and with info in my LGF Pages. (that not everyone is buying, but that’s life).

But the sort of stuff that’s the subject of this post and the previous one - definitely a cornucopia of emotional crazy.

darthstar Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:16:19pm

Barton is soft-balling Hayward with such gentle tone as well as content I’m beginning to think I can hear Barry White singing in the background.

reine.de.tout Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:16:39pm

re: #82 McSpiff

Hehe maybe I’m just young and stupid, but we actually bought a session in that training course in a charity auction. I had a good time with it.

Ha.
The Roi ain’t so young.
But he goes, every year (maybe it’s two, I can’t recall). And survives it, every year.

acacia Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:16:41pm

re: #73 darthstar

Varek Raith Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:17:29pm

BACHMANN: The administration, they were hands off. They didn’t do anything. Where were the boats that could have been commandeered by the government to be sent into this region to deal with that oil plume as it was coming up in the water and destroying marine life? Nowhere to be found. Why? The administration was hands off on this policy.

darthstar Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:17:39pm

re: #86 acacia

[ ]

That’s what I thought you said.

acacia Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:17:53pm

re: #80 McSpiff

In advance of specific people making specific claims for specific amounts.

albusteve Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:18:15pm

re: #87 Varek Raith

good question

McSpiff Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:18:21pm

re: #85 reine.de.tout

Ha.
The Roi ain’t so young.
But he goes, every year (maybe it’s two, I can’t recall). And survives it, every year.

Just out of curosity, is that course not mandatory(as in gov’t mandatory) in the gulf? I know it is for Sable and Hibernia, I assumed it was standard everywhere.

Fozzie Bear Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:18:28pm

re: #87 Varek Raith

Can you imagine how Bachmann would have flipped if Obama had commandeered ships by executive fiat?

darthstar Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:18:40pm

Barton’s walking back his apology…his ass is probably still sore from the reeming he got from Boehner.

darthstar Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:18:56pm

re: #93 darthstar

Barton’s walking back his apology…his ass is probably still sore from the ~~reeming~~ reaming he got from Boehner.

pimf

HoosierHoops Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:19:24pm

re: #93 darthstar

Barton’s walking back his apology…his ass is probably still sore from the reeming he got from Boehner.

CYA moment on National TV

albusteve Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:19:32pm

re: #92 Fozzie Bear

Can you imagine how Bachmann would have flipped if Obama had commandeered ships by executive fiat?

huh?…that’s a wild hypothetical

reine.de.tout Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:19:39pm

re: #91 McSpiff

Just out of curosity, is that course not mandatory(as in gov’t mandatory) in the gulf? I know it is for Sable and Hibernia, I assumed it was standard everywhere.

I’m not sure who mandates it; I believe different companies (Shell, etc) mandate that anyone working their rigs take that course, but it’s not mandated by government, I don’t think.

darthstar Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:20:28pm

re: #95 HoosierHoops

CYA moment on National TV

It’s too late. His apology will be great fodder for his opponent in campaign commercials.

Idle Drifter Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:20:31pm

re: #92 Fozzie Bear

Can you imagine how Bachmann would have flipped if Obama had commandeered ships by executive fiat?

Someone would have flipped if the President simply paid ships and boats to go out there to help with the clean up.

100

Varek Raith Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:20:38pm

I’M AGAINST GOVERNMENT TAKEOVERS OF PRIVATE PROPERTY!
EXCEPT WHEN I’M NOT!
SURPRISE!
Heh

101

acacia Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:20:57pm

re: #88 darthstar

I don’t know what happened there. What I meant to post was that there is a difference between a crazy person and a crazy thought. Osama Bin Laden could say that the sun rises in the east. He’s crazy, the statement is not.

102

darthstar Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:21:16pm

re: #92 Fozzie Bear

Can you imagine how Bachmann would have flipped if Obama had commandeered ships by executive fiat?

Fiats leak as much oil as BP does.
/

103

albusteve Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:21:56pm

re: #99 Idle Drifter

Someone would have flipped if the President simply paid ships and boats to go out there to help with the clean up.

probably, but you can make up any sort of scenario than criticize it…what if doesn’t count

104

darthstar Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:22:35pm

re: #101 acacia

I don’t know what happened there. What I meant to post was that there is a difference between a crazy person and a crazy thought. Osama Bin Laden could say that the sun rises in the east. He’s crazy, the statement is not.

Interesting example. Bachmann’s statement was ludicrous, at best. And she pretty much always sounds like this.

105

Kragar Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:23:09pm

re: #84 darthstar

Barton is soft-balling Hayward with such gentle tone as well as content I’m beginning to think I can hear Barry White singing in the background.

The chemicals between us?

106

albusteve Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:23:38pm

re: #101 acacia

I don’t know what happened there. What I meant to post was that there is a difference between a crazy person and a crazy thought. Osama Bin Laden could say that the sun rises in the east. He’s crazy, the statement is not.

yes, agreed…but here at LGF once you say a few crazy things, anything else is instantaneously written off….it’s not fair but that’s the way it is

107

Cato the Elder Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:24:07pm

re: #62 Cato the Elder

Summer and I are like this: >

Was supposed to read:

“Summer and I are like this: ( > )( < ). No need for publishing perks.”

Because we’re both so damn perky where it counts…

108

McSpiff Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:25:26pm

re: #106 albusteve

yes, agreed…but here at LGF once you say a few crazy things, anything else is instantaneously written off…it’s not fair but that’s the way it is

Agreed. I got chewed out for suggesting Mao might have not been a complete dummy.

109

albusteve Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:25:45pm

re: #104 darthstar

Interesting example. Bachmann’s statement was ludicrous, at best. And she pretty much always sounds like this.

what was the most crazy part of her statement above?

110

Idle Drifter Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:26:05pm

re: #97 reine.de.tout

I’m not sure who mandates it; I believe different companies (Shell, etc) mandate that anyone working their rigs take that course, but it’s not mandated by government, I don’t think.

Few things give me more chills than the idea of being in a helicopter, upside down, and under water with people panicking. Escaping drowning people is a more harrowing experience than the crash itself.

111

albusteve Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:27:20pm

re: #108 McSpiff

Agreed. I got chewed out for suggesting Mao might have not been a complete dummy.

the Xmas tree ornament thread?…I remember that one…as for me I just try to play everything straight down the middle with people and their ‘statements’

112

darthstar Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:27:51pm

re: #109 albusteve

what was the most crazy part of her statement above?

“taking over private industry” “permanent ATM card”…she’s just railing blindly at Obama and isn’t even thinking about whether she makes sense or not. You don’t think she sounds like a loon? Paranoid teabagger talk must work for some people, but not anyone who can think.

113

darthstar Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:28:10pm

lunch…bbl

114

Fozzie Bear Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:29:30pm

re: #109 albusteve

what was the most crazy part of her statement above?

Suggesting that the 20b payment agreement was anything even remotely resembling to a gov’t takeover of private industry, and that the escrow account was somehow created to benefit the federal gov’t.

Saying such a thing is not only crass, it’s insane. I wonder how she felt about the 9/11 victim’s fund.

115

albusteve Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:29:50pm

re: #112 darthstar

“taking over private industry” “permanent ATM card”…she’s just railing blindly at Obama and isn’t even thinking about whether she makes sense or not. You don’t think she sounds like a loon? Paranoid teabagger talk must work for some people, but not anyone who can think.

those are not statements, this is

we don’t think it’s a good idea for the federal government to see private industry as essentially a piggy bank for the federal government,” she said.

you consider this entirely insane?

116

Fozzie Bear Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:31:02pm

re: #115 albusteve

those are not statements, this is

we don’t think it’s a good idea for the federal government to see private industry as essentially a piggy bank for the federal government,” she said.

you consider this entirely insane?

It is entirely insane in that it suggests that such a thing is happening.

117

Fozzie Bear Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:31:30pm

re: #116 Fozzie Bear

Particularly in regards to BP.

118

albusteve Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:31:30pm

re: #114 Fozzie Bear

Suggesting that the 20b payment agreement was anything even remotely resembling to a gov’t takeover of private industry, and that the escrow account was somehow created to benefit the federal gov’t.

Saying such a thing is not only crass, it’s insane. I wonder how she felt about the 9/11 victim’s fund.

but she didn’t suggest it was…it was a warning not to become one….no difference in your opinion?

119

JohninLondon Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:31:44pm

I don’t think Barton is trying to excuse BP - or the other US companies involved - for the massive spill, not is he seeking to defend them against proper claims.

Yes, he regards the announcement of a $20 billion escrow fund as a shakedown by the White House. Can anyone deny that BP’s arm was being twisted right up behind its back by the White House ? Is anyone suggesting that BP came up with the idea ? Obama has been under justifiable criticism for his handling of the whole affair - he needed to come up with something he could foist on BP.

The argument is not about how disbursements from the fund might be made. It is about the principle of forcing the fund idea on BP, forcing a decision of this corporate magnitude out of the blue.

It is all rather reminiscent of the shakedown of the bondholders in the car firms - going way outside normal legal precedent. In that case to the direct benefit of the unions which had helped fund Obama.

…
Of course there needs to be a full post-mortem over how the spill happened. But part of that needs to include the ridiculous US policies of forcing drillings to be conducted at extreme depths, thereby increasing the pressure from any break and delaying any chance of quick relief well-drilling.

As far as I can see BP has tried to act in good faith since the spill. (Try comparing it to 25 years of disgraceful behaviour by Union Carbide over the far worse Bhopal disaster).

From this side of the pond the appearance is of a petulant President strong-arming an American-British company - and deliberately tagging it as “British”, a nice xenophobic touch to cap off the general belligerance. With damn-all reference to the US companies also involved.

BP has been doing or paying for most of the heavy lifting since the spill - it is the US Government that is under clear and specific criticism for failures to take maximum measures to prevent the spill coming ashore.

I think it was wrong but deliberate for Obama to keep using the word “British”. Especially when it is Britain - virtually alone - that has stood alongside the US in Iraq and in Afghanistan. A contribution in blood and treasure that Obama and his people have appeared to slight several times.

The US is now looking like a fair-weather friend from over here. Cheap shots by Obama have gone down like a lead balloon.

120

Fozzie Bear Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:35:37pm

re: #118 albusteve

but she didn’t suggest it was…it was a warning not to become one…no difference in your opinion?

If I say “it’s important to be vigilant against the possibility that the GOP start rounding up albinos and executing them”, is that not insane?

She suggests by implication that Obama is attempting an oil industry takeover which, frankly, is completely unwarranted by the facts.

121

albusteve Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:38:46pm

re: #120 Fozzie Bear

If I say “it’s important to be vigilant against the possibility that the GOP start rounding up albinos and executing them”, is that not insane?

She suggests by implication that Obama is attempting an oil industry takeover which, frankly, is completely unwarranted by the facts.

thats your interpretation, not what she said

122

ShaunP Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:40:05pm

re: #121 albusteve

thats your interpretation, not what she said

Actually, it sounds like exactly what she was saying:

“But today, it seems like the automatic effort from the government is let’s have the federal government take over private industry,”

123

Varek Raith Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:41:19pm

Bachmann has said so many crazy things that I don’t listen to a damn thing she has to say.
Find a better spokesperson.

124

Fozzie Bear Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:42:10pm

re: #123 Varek Raith

Pretty much this.

125

Vambo Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:42:37pm

“permanent” ATM card?

do most ATM cards rot or turn to dust?

126

webevintage Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:44:32pm

re: #119 JohninLondon

I think it was wrong but deliberate for Obama to keep using the word “British”.

Oh Jesus, not this again….

127

acacia Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:45:09pm

re: #120 Fozzie Bear

If the government - as opposed to BP - determines who gets the money then it is a takeover of 20 billion. You may argue that’s a good idea but it is a takeover. If it’s just an escrow account that BP (or the courts if suit is filed) has full control over when it comes to paying out the cash, then I’m not too concerned about that.

128

webevintage Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:45:20pm

re: #125 Vambo

“permanent” ATM card?

do most ATM cards rot or turn to dust?

Mine explodes when you least expect it.

129

webevintage Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:46:22pm

re: #127 acacia

If the government - as opposed to BP - determines who gets the money then it is a takeover of 20 billion. You may argue that’s a good idea but it is a takeover. If it’s just an escrow account that BP (or the courts if suit is filed) has full control over when it comes to paying out the cash, then I’m not too concerned about that.

Then I guess it is a good thing that a third party will be making the decisions.

130

Varek Raith Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:47:11pm

re: #127 acacia

If the government - as opposed to BP - determines who gets the money then it is a takeover of 20 billion. You may argue that’s a good idea but it is a takeover. If it’s just an escrow account that BP (or the courts if suit is filed) has full control over when it comes to paying out the cash, then I’m not too concerned about that.

Funny.
You don’t trust the Gov with that money, but you’d trust BP with it?
Get a third party to handle it.

131

Varek Raith Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:47:47pm

re: #129 webevintage

Then I guess it is a good thing that a third party will be making the decisions.

Okey dokey.
:)

132

Fozzie Bear Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:47:57pm

re: #127 acacia

If the government - as opposed to BP - determines who gets the money then it is a takeover of 20 billion. You may argue that’s a good idea but it is a takeover. If it’s just an escrow account that BP (or the courts if suit is filed) has full control over when it comes to paying out the cash, then I’m not too concerned about that.

It is an escrow account, to be administered by a third party. It would be insane to give BP control over that account.

133

acacia Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:49:57pm

re: #129 webevintage

Who’s the third party? If it’s an arm of the government other than the courts, it’s still a takeover. The key is who controls the payouts.

134

Aceofwhat? Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:54:10pm

re: #133 acacia

Who’s the third party? If it’s an arm of the government other than the courts, it’s still a takeover. The key is who controls the payouts.

Oh, stop. I’m a conservative but Fozzie is right on here.

It’s not a takeover. If BP can’t quickly and competently provide the funds they promised for equipment, relief, and temporary workers to fight the myriad effects of this disaster, then sock some money in an escrow account so that we can stop putting red tape above the environmental and economic CPR that we’re trying to perform.

Come on.

135

webevintage Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:56:14pm

re: #133 acacia

Who’s the third party? If it’s an arm of the government other than the courts, it’s still a takeover. The key is who controls the payouts.

It is the same man that did the 9/11 fund.

136

CuriousLurker Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:58:23pm

re: #133 acacia

The key is who controls the payouts.

Kenneth Feinberg, who also administered the $7 billion September 11th Victim Compensation Fund.

[Link: www.csmonitor.com…]

137

acacia Thu, Jun 17, 2010 12:58:29pm

re: #132 Fozzie Bear

I disagree that it is insane for the wrongdoer to control his or her money and make a determination for itself how much to pay in settlement of a claim. That is the way it’s done in our country. Money doesn’t change hands from one person to another absent a voluntary agreement to settle a claim or a court determines that the money is owed either through a civil suit or criminal restitution order. Now, if BP truly, voluntarily gave up control of 20 billion then that’s ok too because that’s their choice. But if the government insisted on it or threatened BP then that is not good. It depends on the details but getting back to the original Bachmann story, it is not unreasonable to take a position that the government did exert undue control over BP where the payment was not truly voluntary. Who truly knows what went on but the point is that this disagreement is not “crazy” but simply that - a political disagreement.

138

acacia Thu, Jun 17, 2010 1:04:12pm

re: #134 Aceofwhat?

I think we’re getting off track. I am just trying to make a brief point: BP acting voluntarily = good. BP acting under undue pressure = bad. Stating what you believe happened = normal political discourse, not craziness. That’s all I’m really saying here.

139

CuriousLurker Thu, Jun 17, 2010 1:05:13pm

We’re wasting our time here. Goin’ upstairs.

140

Aceofwhat? Thu, Jun 17, 2010 1:19:01pm

re: #138 acacia

I think we’re getting off track. I am just trying to make a brief point: BP acting voluntarily = good. BP acting under undue pressure = bad. Stating what you believe happened = normal political discourse, not craziness. That’s all I’m really saying here.

Well, you said takeover, right?

141

Fozzie Bear Thu, Jun 17, 2010 1:21:15pm

re: #137 acacia

All your “concerns” have already been addressed. Please, read more before you comment here in the future.re: #140 Aceofwhat?

Well, you said takeover, right?

Acacia did, in complete contravention to the voluntary nature of the payment.

Hence my very snarky replies.

142

Fozzie Bear Thu, Jun 17, 2010 1:21:42pm

PIMF…. gotta look before i post.

143

JohninLondon Thu, Jun 17, 2010 1:23:47pm

re: #137 acacia

I disagree that it is insane for the wrongdoer to control his or her money and make a determination for itself how much to pay in settlement of a claim. That is the way it’s done in our country. Money doesn’t change hands from one person to another absent a voluntary agreement to settle a claim or a court determines that the money is owed either through a civil suit or criminal restitution order. Now, if BP truly, voluntarily gave up control of 20 billion then that’s ok too because that’s their choice. But if the government insisted on it or threatened BP then that is not good. It depends on the details but getting back to the original Bachmann story, it is not unreasonable to take a position that the government did exert undue control over BP where the payment was not truly voluntary. Who truly knows what went on but the point is that this disagreement is not “crazy” but simply that - a political disagreement.

Anyone who can’t smell a shakedown here must be dumb

144

WINDUPBIRD DISEASE [S.K.U.M.M.] Thu, Jun 17, 2010 1:27:45pm

re: #143 JohninLondon

Anyone who can’t smell a shakedown here must be dumb

Oh. so you’re in this thread getting downdinged too, hey let’s join the party

145

WINDUPBIRD DISEASE [S.K.U.M.M.] Thu, Jun 17, 2010 1:28:51pm

re: #127 acacia

If the government - as opposed to BP - determines who gets the money then it is a takeover of 20 billion. You may argue that’s a good idea but it is a takeover. If it’s just an escrow account that BP (or the courts if suit is filed) has full control over when it comes to paying out the cash, then I’m not too concerned about that.

I love you crackpot anti-government paranoids, you’re adorable

146

Aceofwhat? Thu, Jun 17, 2010 1:35:12pm

re: #143 JohninLondon

Anyone who can’t smell a shakedown here must be dumb

All i can smell is the chocolate starfish you dumped in your drawers. Go take a logic shower. You’re stinging my nostrils.

147

b_sharp Thu, Jun 17, 2010 1:37:37pm

re: #146 Aceofwhat?

All i can smell is the chocolate starfish you dumped in your drawers. Go take a logic shower. You’re stinging my nostrils.

Updinged for pure artistry.

148

WINDUPBIRD DISEASE [S.K.U.M.M.] Thu, Jun 17, 2010 1:38:50pm

re: #146 Aceofwhat?

All i can smell is the chocolate starfish you dumped in your drawers. Go take a logic shower. You’re stinging my nostrils.

ahahahahahahaa dying, quote of the day right here

149

JohninLondon Thu, Jun 17, 2010 1:48:43pm

re: #146 Aceofwhat?

Pathetic.

What grade are you in ?

150

WINDUPBIRD DISEASE [S.K.U.M.M.] Thu, Jun 17, 2010 2:06:38pm

re: #149 JohninLondon

Pathetic.

What grade are you in ?

Sorry ol’ bean, you don’t get the last word

151

JohninLondon Thu, Jun 17, 2010 2:17:42pm

I don’t want the last word. I just think that a lot of the comments here are far more juvenile than in years past.

152

acacia Thu, Jun 17, 2010 2:35:32pm

re: #145 WindUpBird

It’s frustrating when simple ideas can’t be discussed dispassionately or logically. It’s not “anti-government” or “paranoid” to make the observation that when the government takes control of someone else’s money it is a takeover, no matter how well intentioned. It may be the greatest thing since sliced bread but it is in fact a takeover. That can’t be denied. Did that happen here? I don’t know. None of us do. The whole issue is whether the transfer was voluntary or not. Based on how Obama approached the GM situation, bank bailouts etc., I tend to think it wasn’t as voluntary as you apparently think. If it was such a good idea and came straight from BP’s voluntary and kind heart, it would have been done long ago. Since it didn’t, I tend to think that the White House put a lot of pressure, if not threats, that resulted in the transfer of 20 billion from a private entity, BP, to the government which will now take over from BP the job of deciding who has a meritorious claim and who doesn’t. I just don’t like the idea of the government having the say and taking it away from the parties involved and, if necessary, the courts. Tell me why it’s better for the government to be handling the settlements. I’d truly like to know why you think it’s better.

153

JRCMYP Thu, Jun 17, 2010 7:43:40pm

Okay, so, here is the logical conclusion of the GOP moaning and groaning about the socialist gobment takeover of BP. WTF ever.

154

Snortwood Thu, Jun 17, 2010 7:44:13pm

That should read “Rep. Michele Bachmann (R-Moon)”

155

josephblie Fri, Jun 18, 2010 2:42:42am

Mr president please stop bashing BP are you waiting for it to bankrupt and leave you with a problem 1000 times as big as it is already now..

156

Charles Johnson Fri, Jun 18, 2010 9:26:20am

re: #151 JohninLondon

I don’t want the last word. I just think that a lot of the comments here are far more juvenile than in years past.

And one reason you think that is because you continue getting your ass handed to you when you try to spread your ludicrous global warming denial BS here.

So, since you never win in the real world, you’re reduced to throwing insults at your opponents.

157

afkabl2 Sat, Jun 19, 2010 9:06:21am

those of you trashing the congresswoman need to do a little research. Bart stupak has already begun making noises about using some of this extortion money for health care. its a reelect Obama slush fund pure and simple. the people of the gulf coast are simply ‘collateral damage’ in the agenda of Obama.
never let a crisis go to waste.

158

afkabl2 Sat, Jun 19, 2010 9:09:04am

but it is in fact a takeover. That can’t be denied. Did that happen here? I don’t know. None of us do.

the new york daily news reported that the vice president told bp in the meeting that if they did not come up with the money, that they would take it from them. sounds like a ‘takeover’ to me.

159

Charles Johnson Sat, Jun 19, 2010 10:20:04am

Here they are again, at the end of dead threads trying to get the last idiotic word.

This has become one of the dumbest right wing talking points I’ve ever seen, and that’s saying plenty.

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