House GOP Unanimously Votes to Devalue Reality

The Republican Party’s total war on science

EnvironmentMarch 2011 • Views: 31,658

If you had any remaining doubt that the Republican Party has become the party of science denial, today’s vote in the House should settle the matter for good: House GOP rejects amendments that say climate change is real.

Committee ranking Democrat Rep. Henry Waxman (D-Calif.) offered an amendment Tuesday that called on Congress to agree that climate change is occurring. The amendment failed on a party-line vote of 20-31. No Republicans voted for the amendment.

The amendment says that “Congress accepts the scientific finding of the Environmental Protection Agency that ‘warming of the climate system is unequivocal, as is now evident from observations of increases in global average air and ocean temperatures, widespread melting of snow and ice, and rising global average sea level.’”

“This finding is so obviously correct that there should be no need to offer the amendment,” Waxman said.

Read the Waxman amendment carefully; it makes no statement about whether climate change is the result of human activity, or is a natural phenomenon. In fact, the amendment makes no statement about the cause at all. It simply states the truth about the conclusions reached by the vast majority of scientists in many fields of study: that the Earth’s climate is warming, markedly and measurably.

This isn’t even close to being a controversial conclusion among scientists; even most “skeptics” will agree that the climate is warming (although they typically deny humans are responsible). The scientific research is voluminous and convincing, on any level.

But the Grand Old Anti-Science Party thinks they can deny it away. Today, Republicans actually voted en masse against reality.

Absolutely pathetic.

(h/t: Phil Plait.)

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105 comments

darthstar Tue, Mar 15, 2011 12:32:10pm

The Democrats should propose a bill that says gravity is real and offer to hold the debate by a cliff.

Fozzie Bear Tue, Mar 15, 2011 12:33:22pm

When the antarctic ice shelf collapses, this needs to be rubbed in the faces of every Republican in the country.

Kragar (Antichrist ) Tue, Mar 15, 2011 12:34:35pm

Maybe if we told them Baby Jesus was running a fever and it was making the world warmer they might believe it then.

recusancy Tue, Mar 15, 2011 12:35:05pm

re: #2 Fozzie Bear

When the antarctic ice shelf collapses, this needs to be rubbed in the faces of every Republican in the country.

Nothing will be gained from that.

Targetpractice Tue, Mar 15, 2011 12:35:38pm

re: #2 Fozzie Bear

When the antarctic ice shelf collapses, this needs to be rubbed in the faces of every Republican in the country.

By then, the damage will be probably be too far along, with any efforts past that point ultimately being about limiting further damage rather than slowing or even stopping it.

Fozzie Bear Tue, Mar 15, 2011 12:36:02pm

re: #4 recusancy

Nothing will be gained from that.

If you don’t care about winning elections sure, nothing will be gained.

Lidane Tue, Mar 15, 2011 12:36:59pm

Someone explain to me how denying reality and denying science makes us competitive as a nation in the 21st century.

Brother Holy Cruise Missile of Mild Acceptance Tue, Mar 15, 2011 12:38:16pm

re: #7 Lidane

Someone explain to me how denying reality and denying science makes us competitive as a nation in the 21st century.

because shut up that’s why!

Kragar (Antichrist ) Tue, Mar 15, 2011 12:38:34pm

re: #7 Lidane

Someone explain to me how denying reality and denying science makes us competitive as a nation in the 21st century.

Obviously the only reason why we’re falling behind is that we’ve turned from God.
///

engineer cat Tue, Mar 15, 2011 12:38:36pm

Fox News Offers To Teach Japanese Government How To Lie

coulter entity volunteered to instruct local commentators in preadolescent sarcasm

Glenn Beck's Grand Unifying Theory of Obdicut Tue, Mar 15, 2011 12:38:41pm

I just don’t get this. We were actually making headway. Bush admitting that AGW was occurring.

This is the result, I think, mostly of the power of propaganda, of how much money can influence debate, married to the problem of the anti-science attitudes of some religions.

I don’t know a solution to this, except for prominent people on the Right to stand up and start taking responsibility, instead of riding the wave for their own benefit. Sadly, everyone I know on the right who has spoken out about the dangers of AGW has now backtracked.

Fozzie Bear Tue, Mar 15, 2011 12:38:54pm

re: #7 Lidane

Someone explain to me how denying reality and denying science makes us competitive as a nation in the 21st century.

It makes sense if you view the competition as being between those who are Christian, and believe the rapture is coming, and those who don’t. This isn’t about nations.

Targetpractice Tue, Mar 15, 2011 12:39:39pm

re: #7 Lidane

Someone explain to me how denying reality and denying science makes us competitive as a nation in the 21st century.

How can there be global warming when it’s so frakin’ cold outside? What kinda idiot believes that the planet is getting hotter when there’s been so much snow this year?!

///

Fozzie Bear Tue, Mar 15, 2011 12:40:24pm

re: #11 Obdicut

This is absolutely the incredible power of propaganda, on display. There really isn’t anything about which you can’t convince a slim majority of people with skillful enough propaganda, distributed on a wide enough scale.

KingKenrod Tue, Mar 15, 2011 12:41:32pm

I’m not surprised the GOP refused to agree, it supports the EPA’s position of regulating CO2 in the absence of Congressional direction on the issue. Since these issues will be the subject of future Congressional negotiations on energy policy, why concede anything and give it away? The GOP expects to be paid for acknowledging reality.

engineer cat Tue, Mar 15, 2011 12:41:47pm

re: #7 Lidane

Someone explain to me how denying reality and denying science makes us competitive as a nation in the 21st century.

the unquestioning faith in the philosophy that all good things in the world occur as the result of making a buck

researchok Tue, Mar 15, 2011 12:42:16pm

re: #14 Fozzie Bear

This is absolutely the incredible power of propaganda, on display. There really isn’t anything about which you can’t convince a slim majority of people with skillful enough propaganda, distributed on a wide enough scale.

That truth is what drives mobs and mob behaviors.

Brother Holy Cruise Missile of Mild Acceptance Tue, Mar 15, 2011 12:42:18pm

re: #13 Targetpractice, Worst of Both Worlds

How can there be global warming when it’s so frakin’ cold outside? What kinda idiot believes that the planet is getting hotter when there’s been so much snow this year?!

///

the biggest mistake was labelling it “global warming”. Sure that’s what it is but climate change is a more apt description. Each year my folks say they’ve seen more snow than the year before (they’re in NY). That to me says the climate is changing, but since it’s been called “global warming” they go to the old “If it’s getting warmer how come there’s so much damn snow” routine.

Lidane Tue, Mar 15, 2011 12:42:48pm

re: #13 Targetpractice, Worst of Both Worlds

How can there be global warming when it’s so frakin’ cold outside? What kinda idiot believes that the planet is getting hotter when there’s been so much snow this year?!

///

Sadly, I have wingnut friends who believe that. A few of them are even teachers. It makes me incredibly sad.

Kragar (Antichrist ) Tue, Mar 15, 2011 12:44:15pm

Recogninzing Global Warming runs counter to the GOPs plan to defund the EPA.

Fozzie Bear Tue, Mar 15, 2011 12:44:33pm

I really don’t think the political climate of the country can or will turn around until we are driven to a complete economic collapse and mass famine by insane policies. There isn’t an institutional path back to sanity, I don’t think. There isn’t enough money for the bottom 95%, which has 45% of the wealth, to fight back against the top 5%, who control 55%.

This is all the endgame of our republic, I am afraid.

darthstar Tue, Mar 15, 2011 12:44:57pm

It’s all about the black guy.

Last month, Tennessee state Sen. Mae Beavers introduced SB 1091, a bill that would require presidential candidates to present a long-form birth certificate in order to qualify for the ballot in the Volunteer State. Beavers, a Republican, is in good company: Nearly a dozen states have now introduced similar legislation—part of national campaign mounted by the birthers, those conservatives who believe that President Barack Obama was not born in the United States.

How can you expect them to take the climate seriously? And this woman doesn’t even know what her bill does.

Fozzie Bear Tue, Mar 15, 2011 12:45:01pm

re: #17 researchok

That truth is what drives mobs and mob behaviors.

Belief is what drives mobs. the truth may or may not have anything to do with it.

Targetpractice Tue, Mar 15, 2011 12:45:22pm

re: #18 Dreggas

the biggest mistake was labelling it “global warming”. Sure that’s what it is but climate change is a more apt description. Each year my folks say they’ve seen more snow than the year before (they’re in NY). That to me says the climate is changing, but since it’s been called “global warming” they go to the old “If it’s getting warmer how come there’s so much damn snow” routine.

And, of course, when you try to explain to them that “climate” and “weather” are two different things, and that a rising global temp can cause the weather to get colder, they give you that look like you’re a dumbass. Or, if they’re “true believers,” they start telling you about how it’s been “proven” that the whole global warming deal is an “international plot” or something along those lines.

Vicious Babushka Tue, Mar 15, 2011 12:46:00pm

re: #18 Dreggas

the biggest mistake was labelling it “global warming”. Sure that’s what it is but climate change is a more apt description. Each year my folks say they’ve seen more snow than the year before (they’re in NY). That to me says the climate is changing, but since it’s been called “global warming” they go to the old “If it’s getting warmer how come there’s so much damn snow” routine.

Simple to explain. The melting polar ice raises the level of the oceans, more moisture evaporates into the atmosphere, and more moisture comes back down to earth in the form of precipitation, which is SNOW during the winter, and torrential rain during the summer.

Brother Holy Cruise Missile of Mild Acceptance Tue, Mar 15, 2011 12:46:17pm

re: #24 Targetpractice, Worst of Both Worlds

And, of course, when you try to explain to them that “climate” and “weather” are two different things, and that a rising global temp can cause the weather to get colder, they give you that look like you’re a dumbass. Or, if they’re “true believers,” they start telling you about how it’s been “proven” that the whole global warming deal is an “international plot” or something along those lines.

yep that is about right. Followed up with a quote from glen beck or bill o’reilly.

Kronocide Tue, Mar 15, 2011 12:46:18pm

re: #11 Obdicut

This is the result, I think, mostly of the power of propaganda, of how much money can influence debate, married to the problem of the anti-science attitudes of some religions.

I think it’s a head in the sand ‘Jesus will save us, Rapture is coming’ mindset. I hate to be that cynical but that seems to be the rationale.

Targetpractice Tue, Mar 15, 2011 12:46:35pm

re: #22 darthstar

It’s all about the black guy.

How can you expect them to take the climate seriously? And this woman doesn’t even know what her bill does.

I say let these states do it. Why? Because I’m going to laugh my ass off when the GOP candidates begin making excuses for why they don’t have their “long form” handy.

jaunte Tue, Mar 15, 2011 12:47:06pm

Carboncorp contributions cool conservative concerns for Creation.

researchok Tue, Mar 15, 2011 12:47:12pm

re: #23 Fozzie Bear

Belief is what drives mobs. the truth may or may not have anything to do with it.

That was my point- mobs are rarel;y driven by truth, per se.

They are agenda and ideology driven.

My reference to ‘truth’ was to point out the clarity of your remark.

Fozzie Bear Tue, Mar 15, 2011 12:47:18pm

re: #28 Targetpractice, Worst of Both Worlds

I say let these states do it. Why? Because I’m going to laugh my ass off when the GOP candidates begin making excuses for why they don’t have their “long form” handy.

Or when they have to explain that it isn’t possible to obtain their “long form”, because there isn’t any such thing.

Kragar (Antichrist ) Tue, Mar 15, 2011 12:47:24pm

re: #27 BigPapa

I think it’s a head in the sand ‘Jesus will save us, Rapture is coming’ mindset. I hate to be that cynical but that seems to be the rationale.

I hope the Rapture does happen May 21. It gives us a chance to be rid of these assholes.

Brother Holy Cruise Missile of Mild Acceptance Tue, Mar 15, 2011 12:47:26pm

re: #25 Alouette

Simple to explain. The melting polar ice raises the level of the oceans, more moisture evaporates into the atmosphere, and more moisture comes back down to earth in the form of precipitation, which is SNOW during the winter, and torrential rain during the summer.

Yeah, simple when you have the ability to think analytically, not so simple to explain to people who look you square in the eye and defend glen beck because he “made a big difference in their lives”.

Fozzie Bear Tue, Mar 15, 2011 12:48:31pm

re: #30 researchok

That was my point- mobs are rarel;y driven by truth, per se.

They are agenda and ideology driven.

My reference to ‘truth’ was to point out the clarity of your remark.

Ahh ok, I see what you were saying. What is perceived as truth.

darthstar Tue, Mar 15, 2011 12:49:21pm

re: #32 Kragar (Proud to be Kafir)

I hope the Rapture does happen May 21. It gives us a chance to be rid of these assholes.

Someone needs to spread the rumor that all the good clouds will get taken quickly, and you don’t want to spend eternity in heaven sharing a cloud with an asshole, so people should preemptively punch their own tickets.

Fozzie Bear Tue, Mar 15, 2011 12:49:38pm

re: #32 Kragar (Proud to be Kafir)

I hope the Rapture does happen May 21. It gives us a chance to be rid of these assholes.

If their asshole God comes and takes them away, so much the better for the rest of us. I sure as hell wouldn’t want to spend eternity with an all-powerful dick that is defined by who he hates.

Brother Holy Cruise Missile of Mild Acceptance Tue, Mar 15, 2011 12:51:01pm

re: #36 Fozzie Bear

If their asshole God comes and takes them away, so much the better for the rest of us. I sure as hell wouldn’t want to spend eternity with an all-powerful dick that is defined by who he hates.

I regret that I have but one upding for that comment.

darthstar Tue, Mar 15, 2011 12:51:58pm

re: #36 Fozzie Bear

If their asshole God comes and takes them away, so much the better for the rest of us. I sure as hell wouldn’t want to spend eternity with an all-powerful dick that is defined by who he hates.

Hear hear! Quoted for truth. I always tell people who talk about eternal damnation that god must be awfully insecure to want to punish me like that for not kissing his kid’s ass.

Killgore Trout Tue, Mar 15, 2011 12:52:01pm

Fox: Japan’s Radiation Leak Not As Dangerous As You Fear

Reality: Japan radiation leaking “directly” into air: IAEA

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), citing information it had received from Japanese authorities at 0350 GMT, said on Tuesday dose rates of up to 400 millisievert per hour have been reported at the Fukushima power plant site.

It did not give details or comparisons on the radiation level but exposure to over 100 millisieverts a year is a level which can lead to cancer, according to the World Nuclear Association. The Vienna-based IAEA uses the unit to measure doses of radiation received by people.

Targetpractice Tue, Mar 15, 2011 12:52:02pm

I think there are those for whom its a religious matter. But I think there are just as many who have been scared by the energy companies telling them that if they have to implement measures to control their carbon emissions and pursue clean energy, that it’s going to cause energy costs to go up. In which case, denial of global warming isn’t religious or ideology, it’s simple greed.

Brother Holy Cruise Missile of Mild Acceptance Tue, Mar 15, 2011 12:52:54pm

re: #39 Killgore Trout

Fox: Japan’s Radiation Leak Not As Dangerous As You Fear

Reality: Japan radiation leaking “directly” into air: IAEA

and the wind will blow that straight at us.

Sol Berdinowitz Tue, Mar 15, 2011 12:53:57pm

re: #40 Targetpractice, Worst of Both Worlds

They couple it with the ideology that AGW is a lever to gain more government control of private enterprise.

Which in real terms means that it could weaken the energy cartel’s grip on the US economy.

SanFranciscoZionist Tue, Mar 15, 2011 12:54:02pm

re: #32 Kragar (Proud to be Kafir)

I hope the Rapture does happen May 21. It gives us a chance to be rid of these assholes.

Problem is, if the Rapture does happen, we’re going to lose a lot of really nice people, and probably be LEFT with these assholes.

Do you really think they’re gonna be saved?

Also, the Rapture is un-American. We’re going to suffer more losses than any other industrialized nation.

Kragar (Antichrist ) Tue, Mar 15, 2011 12:54:22pm

re: #36 Fozzie Bear

If their asshole God comes and takes them away, so much the better for the rest of us. I sure as hell wouldn’t want to spend eternity with an all-powerful dick that is defined by who he hates.

“Guys, you keep telling us you’re leaving, so get the fuck out of the way for those of us who plan to stick around.”

SanFranciscoZionist Tue, Mar 15, 2011 12:54:37pm

re: #33 Dreggas

Yeah, simple when you have the ability to think analytically, not so simple to explain to people who look you square in the eye and defend glen beck because he “made a big difference in their lives”.

I have never had that experience. Which is good, because if I did, I would probably weep. How can Glenn Beck have made a difference to someone’s life?

Fozzie Bear Tue, Mar 15, 2011 12:54:40pm

re: #40 Targetpractice, Worst of Both Worlds

The thinking goes something like this: “If only I suck that corporate knob a little harder, my job might be spared. Fuck everybody else, this is about survival.”

SanFranciscoZionist Tue, Mar 15, 2011 12:55:01pm

re: #35 darthstar

Someone needs to spread the rumor that all the good clouds will get taken quickly, and you don’t want to spend eternity in heaven sharing a cloud with an asshole, so people should preemptively punch their own tickets.

Er…reconsider that statement.

Brother Holy Cruise Missile of Mild Acceptance Tue, Mar 15, 2011 12:55:23pm

re: #45 SanFranciscoZionist

I have never had that experience. Which is good, because if I did, I would probably weep. How can Glenn Beck have made a difference to someone’s life?

According to my mother he’s had a positive impact on her and my father. How that can be I have no idea but I keep asking if they’ve bought nike’s and sweat suits.

Killgore Trout Tue, Mar 15, 2011 12:56:08pm

re: #41 Dreggas

and the wind will blow that straight at us.

The wingnuts have decided on the talking point that the earthquake is being exploited by socialists. Sad.

recusancy Tue, Mar 15, 2011 12:56:30pm

re: #25 Alouette

Simple to explain. The melting polar ice raises the level of the oceans, more moisture evaporates into the atmosphere, and more moisture comes back down to earth in the form of precipitation, which is SNOW during the winter, and torrential rain during the summer.

Sort of. Warmer air can hold more moisture. Therefore many spots will get drier because the clouds will hold the moisture longer. Then when it does fall it will fall in more extreme amounts in the form or snow or rain.

Targetpractice Tue, Mar 15, 2011 12:56:34pm

re: #46 Fozzie Bear

The thinking goes something like this: “If only I suck that corporate knob a little harder, my job might be spared. Fuck everybody else, this is about survival.”

It’s not just their job, but also “I don’t wanna have to pay high electricity bills!” or “I don’t wanna have to pay more at the pump!” So when those energy companies tell them that the government enforcing controls and regulations to limit CO2 emissions could lead to higher costs, people put an iron death grip on their wallets and scream for somebody to “stop the government!”

Stanley Sea Tue, Mar 15, 2011 12:59:04pm

thedeadhandbook David E. Hoffman

RT @DoDSpokesman: Operation #TOMODACHI - USS Essex, USS Harpers Ferry and USS Germantown w/31st MEU en route to west coast of Japan #nuclear

Randall Gross Tue, Mar 15, 2011 1:02:30pm

This is all pushing, shoving, and jockeying to get the real showdown a week or so before April 15th when the anti-Gov’t, eat the internat’l bankers, end the Fed crowd is frothing at the mouth the most because it’s tax time. They all agree that taxes are just commooonizm and against Gaaaaawd’s! will.

Lidane Tue, Mar 15, 2011 1:05:40pm

re: #53 Thanos

I saw some girl with an End The Fed shirt on yesterday. I wondered if she was serious, then I remembered that this is Austin and there are a lot of Luap Nor and Alex Jones fans around here.

Sol Berdinowitz Tue, Mar 15, 2011 1:05:42pm

re: #53 Thanos

I remember back those halcyon days when the Clinton administration was running a budget surplus. Rush was complaining that it just demonstrated that the government was taking more money from us than it needed to operate, which was unfair and un-American…

Targetpractice Tue, Mar 15, 2011 1:05:54pm

re: #53 Thanos

This is all pushing, shoving, and jockeying to get the real showdown a week or so before April 15th when the anti-Gov’t, eat the internat’l bankers, end the Fed crowd is frothing at the mouth the most because it’s tax time. They all agree that taxes are just commooonizm and against Gaaawd’s! will.

I’d pay a year’s salary just to see one Republican stand up before those same nutters and declare that, one year from 4/15, Medicare will be closed down and Social Security will be totally privatized.

jc717 Tue, Mar 15, 2011 1:06:28pm

Well, I just wish that politics and politicians stayed out of science, period.
I can get behind a bill that says ‘we will respect the findings of scientific consensus once one emerges.’ Trying to legislate reality if pretty pointless.

Lidane Tue, Mar 15, 2011 1:07:03pm

re: #55 ralphieboy

I remember back those halcyon days when the Clinton administration was running a budget surplus. Rush was complaining that it just demonstrated that the government was taking more money from us than it needed to operate, which was unfair and un-American…

Which only shows they don’t give a shit about deficits or surpluses. It’s all about scoring political points and nothing more.

recusancy Tue, Mar 15, 2011 1:07:05pm

re: #57 jc717

Well, I just wish that politics and politicians stayed out of science, period.
I can get behind a bill that says ‘we will respect the findings of scientific consensus once one emerges.’ Trying to legislate reality if pretty pointless.

One already has emerged.

S'latch Tue, Mar 15, 2011 1:09:47pm

There real test would be a vote on an amendment that said:

“Congress rejects the scientific finding of the Environmental Protection Agency that ‘warming of the climate system is unequivocal ….’”

I doubt the those 31 Republicans would vote in favor of that one, but some of them might.

Randall Gross Tue, Mar 15, 2011 1:10:42pm

I was honestly hoping for a bit better from the House dems - with this move Waxman is just gotcha grandstanding like the GOP wingnuts are. It doesn’t accomplish anything. The Dems need better strategy to derail that train, and that strategy starts with “divide and conquer”….

Lidane Tue, Mar 15, 2011 1:11:55pm

re: #49 Killgore Trout

The wingnuts have decided on the talking point that the earthquake is being exploited by socialists. Sad.

What’s even funnier is their definition of socialist. I saw this quote about Huntsman in the NYT:

“On a good day, he’s a socialist,” said Darcy Van Orden, a co-founder of Utah Rising, a clearinghouse group, referring to Mr. Huntsman. “On a bad day, he’s a communist.”

If Huntsman’s considered a socialist, where does that leave the rest of us?

Eclectic Cyborg (formerly dragonfire1981) Tue, Mar 15, 2011 1:12:59pm

Three points:

1. Ignorance is bliss (for now…)

2. Nero fiddled while Rome burned…maybe he was a secret Republican

3. Stupidity like this really makes me miss being in Canada

MrSilverDragon Tue, Mar 15, 2011 1:14:34pm

re: #60 Lawrence Schmerel

There real test would be a vote on an amendment that said:

“Congress rejects the scientific finding of the Environmental Protection Agency that ‘warming of the climate system is unequivocal ….’”

I doubt the those 31 Republicans would vote in favor of that one, but some of them might.

I can only imagine that a number of them might actually agree with that statement… and if I had my way, and they did, that should be grounds for dismissal.

Remember, you don’t need to pass an I.Q. test to be a congressman.

Randall Gross Tue, Mar 15, 2011 1:15:09pm

There are things those GOP congresscritters need, state by state, district by district. If the dems start to really counter by taking some of those off the table with amendments then they might get somewhere. They need to play hardball back.

Sol Berdinowitz Tue, Mar 15, 2011 1:15:29pm

re: #61 Thanos

I was honestly hoping for a bit better from the House dems - with this move Waxman is just gotcha grandstanding like the GOP wingnuts are. It doesn’t accomplish anything. The Dems need better strategy to derail that train, and that strategy starts with “divide and conquer”…

Problem is, the Democrats are already divided and conquered themselves…

Fozzie Bear Tue, Mar 15, 2011 1:19:29pm

re: #66 ralphieboy

Problem is, the Democrats are already divided and conquered themselves…

We basically have two parties here:
1. The party of batshit insane oligarchs and theocrats.
2. The mostly-reasonable party of institutionalized cowardice.

The Mountain That Blogs Tue, Mar 15, 2011 1:19:36pm

Climate change could not be reached for comment, but an insider with knowledge of the situation has stated, “he [climate change] couldn’t care less what the GOP thinks”

Fozzie Bear Tue, Mar 15, 2011 1:25:43pm

Possibly the cutest thing I have ever seen.

Lord Baron Viscount Duke Earl Count Planckton Tue, Mar 15, 2011 1:26:57pm

re: #11 Obdicut

I just don’t get this. We were actually making headway. Bush admitting that AGW was occurring.

It’s scary when Bush is a reasonable politician.

RadicalModerate Tue, Mar 15, 2011 1:27:08pm

re: #62 Lidane

What’s even funnier is their definition of socialist. I saw this quote about Huntsman in the NYT:

If Huntsman’s considered a socialist, where does that leave the rest of us?

Great source there, NYT. If you look at Van Orden’s Tea Party group “Utah Rising” webpage, you’ll see a TON of nativist-based anti-immigration stuff, and the links go to a few places that could be considered bonafide white nationalist. And a link to convicted murderer Shawna Forde’s “Minuteman Civil Defense” group too.

rwdflynavy Tue, Mar 15, 2011 1:28:29pm

re: #70 Sergey Romanov

It’s scary when Bush is a reasonable politician.

Thanks to the GOP’s most recent efforts, he looks more reasonable by the day.

Lord Baron Viscount Duke Earl Count Planckton Tue, Mar 15, 2011 1:29:40pm

re: #72 rwdflynavy

Thanks to the GOP’s most recent efforts, he looks more reasonable by the day.

I never thought I’d “miss” him. (Not as a President, mind you.)

Lord Baron Viscount Duke Earl Count Planckton Tue, Mar 15, 2011 1:30:58pm

re: #69 Fozzie Bear

Possibly the cutest thing I have ever seen.

I’ve seen comments elsewhere this is an old pic that was miscaptioned.

Fozzie Bear Tue, Mar 15, 2011 1:32:00pm

re: #74 Sergey Romanov

I’ve seen comments elsewhere this is an old pic that was miscaptioned.

Yeah, I searched for it on tineye, after reading the comments. It’s from 2006, but still… absolutely adorable.

Lord Baron Viscount Duke Earl Count Planckton Tue, Mar 15, 2011 1:33:29pm

re: #75 Fozzie Bear

Yeah, I searched for it on tineye, after reading the comments. It’s from 2006, but still… absolutely adorable.

A panda trying to eat a human leg? I’ve seen things more adorable than that ////

Sol Berdinowitz Tue, Mar 15, 2011 1:33:36pm

re: #75 Fozzie Bear

Yeah, I searched for it on tineye, after reading the comments. It’s from 2006, but still… absolutely adorable.

Amazing that animals can sense earthquakes that far in advance…

Fozzie Bear Tue, Mar 15, 2011 1:34:37pm

re: #77 ralphieboy

Amazing that animals can sense earthquakes that far in advance…

Obviously a very smart panda. /

The original source (chinadaily) says he’s begging for food. Still awfully cute.

jc717 Tue, Mar 15, 2011 1:34:55pm

re: #59 recusancy

One already has emerged.

I agree. There’s an overwhelming consensus withing the scientific community regarding climate change. I still don’t like politicians legislating these things.
Waste of time or worse.

Sol Berdinowitz Tue, Mar 15, 2011 1:37:02pm

re: #79 jc717

I agree. There’s an overwhelming consensus withing the scientific community regarding climate change. I still don’t like politicians legislating these things.
Waste of time or worse.

Look these representatives just want to maintain the Constitutionally mandated Separation of Science and State…

recusancy Tue, Mar 15, 2011 1:41:03pm

re: #79 jc717

I agree. There’s an overwhelming consensus withing the scientific community regarding climate change. I still don’t like politicians legislating these things.
Waste of time or worse.

What entity is big enough to tackle a problem as big as climate change other than the government? The free market isn’t going to do anything unless there’s a price on carbon.

Sol Berdinowitz Tue, Mar 15, 2011 1:42:42pm

re: #81 recusancy

What entity is big enough to tackle a problem as big as climate change other than the government? The free market isn’t going to do anything unless there’s a price on carbon.

Climate Change is just a red herring so that the World Government and seize control of our beloved freedoms

Fozzie Bear Tue, Mar 15, 2011 1:43:17pm

re: #79 jc717

I agree. There’s an overwhelming consensus withing the scientific community regarding climate change. I still don’t like politicians legislating these things.
Waste of time or worse.

If there isn’t legislation to mandate that we wean ourselves off fossil fuels, then we have to let the market decide. The market will probably end up deciding by allowing most of us to starve to death.

I prefer legislation.

Kragar (Antichrist ) Tue, Mar 15, 2011 1:47:04pm

re: #82 ralphieboy

Climate Change is just a red herring so that the World Government and seize control of our beloved freedoms

/

Think of the light bulbs!

Sol Berdinowitz Tue, Mar 15, 2011 1:48:18pm

re: #83 Fozzie Bear

If there isn’t legislation to mandate that we wean ourselves off fossil fuels, then we have to let the market decide. The market will probably end up deciding by allowing most of us to starve to death.

I prefer legislation.

We still believe that the price of foosil fuels is set by the mechanics of a free market.

Representatives of the energy companies meet every year at the White House to discuss “national energy strategy”.

And because these matters are so vital to national security, they are kept secret.

What do we call it when representatives of industry meet in secret to divvy up the market?

-Starts with “car” and ends with (don’t) “tel”…

MinisterO Tue, Mar 15, 2011 1:53:00pm

Of course they’re voting against it. What do you think their constituents would say if they voted for this?

Sol Berdinowitz Tue, Mar 15, 2011 1:54:31pm

re: #86 MinisterO

“Duh!”

watching you tiny alien kittens are Tue, Mar 15, 2011 2:06:26pm

Well, after all reality can at times be somewhat fluid depending on the quantity and quality of the drugs you are taking…

One can only assume that the Republican leadership is currently taking massive amounts of drugs, well, either that or their religious mania has rendered them clinically insane…

Actually it is kinda the same thing either way when you stop and think about it. ;)

makeitstop Tue, Mar 15, 2011 2:15:06pm

Rick Santorum calls JFK a’radical’ for believing in separation of church and state

We are surrounded by idiots.

Lord Baron Viscount Duke Earl Count Planckton Tue, Mar 15, 2011 2:18:09pm

re: #89 makeitstop

Rick S******m calls JFK a’radical’ for believing in separation of church and state

We are surrounded by idiots.

Please! Children may be reading! /

Lord Baron Viscount Duke Earl Count Planckton Tue, Mar 15, 2011 2:19:44pm

re: #90 Sergey Romanov

To avoid obscene words like s——-m I propose to call him Rick S&m.

Lidane Tue, Mar 15, 2011 2:20:23pm

re: #89 makeitstop

Rick Santorum calls JFK a’radical’ for believing in separation of church and state

We are surrounded by idiots.

Someone go get the wetnaps. The Santorum is frothing up again. =P

Lord Baron Viscount Duke Earl Count Planckton Tue, Mar 15, 2011 2:22:19pm

re: #92 Lidane

Someone go get the wetnaps. The Santorum is frothing up again. =P

S——m frothing at the mouth… ewww

quiet reader Tue, Mar 15, 2011 2:41:16pm

re: #89 makeitstop

Rick Santorum calls JFK a’radical’ for believing in separation of church and state

We are surrounded by idiots.

Here is a hilarious comment from the article you linked at TPM.

mans best friend:
The Republican party was founded by the remnants of the Whigs, anti-slavery Democrats and the Know-Nothing Party. Apparently, the Know-Nothings are the only part that survive in the Republican Party today.

CarolJ Tue, Mar 15, 2011 2:47:44pm

re: #57 jc717

Sigh. I remember when science was non-partisan and dry as dust when it came to politics. Now? We’ll have to elect scientists to get scientific policy right.

We need to remind some folks that not doing something will mean we’re left behind. When oil is 10 bucks a gallon, Europe and China will have thriving economies because they will need little of it to get along. We’ll be the ones stuck in suburban houses we can’t escape because we can’t afford to go anywhere, not even as commuters.

Achilles Tang Tue, Mar 15, 2011 3:11:20pm

re: #94 quiet reader

Here is a hilarious comment from the article you linked at TPM.

mans best friend:
The Republican party was founded by the remnants of the Whigs, anti-slavery Democrats and the Know-Nothing Party. Apparently, the Know-Nothings are the only part that survive in the Republican Party today.

There was a really funny lambast of Bachman on MSNBC last night, along the lines of we know she is stupid, but how can her staff be so stupid along with the 52% of voters who cast their votes for her?

Wozza Matter? Tue, Mar 15, 2011 4:02:54pm

To the GOP……in the language of my generation……..

Science …..OGTFO

Mongo only pawn... in game of life. Tue, Mar 15, 2011 7:47:49pm

Questions on Jeopardy in 2099.
Science for $20000000, Alexi.
“Main cause of the fall of scientific advancement in 21st century United States.”
Answer…”Bible used as main evidence of scientific facts.”
BBBUUUZZZ!!!
Oh, I’m sorry John, you were wrong first in the answer,but not entirely, but you did not answer in the form of a question. The answer is “Theological creationism used the Bible as the thesis for all scientific fact and denied use of empirical evidence despite every other nation on the face of the earth moving forward and kicking our asses back to 1912.”
“Now a word from our sponsors, China Wheat Chips.”

boxhead Wed, Mar 16, 2011 12:58:59am

no words….. but knowing quite a few Fox believers, it is does not surprise me…. only makes me very discouraged for the future that my son will face in USA.

Science!!!!! It Works!

100

wvng Wed, Mar 16, 2011 10:44:43am

re: #7 Lidane

Because SHUT UP THAT’S WHY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

101

acacia Wed, Mar 16, 2011 10:50:47am

This doesn’t surprise me but I suspect that this was not simply an up or down vote on “science.” If it were, then what was the point of the vote? My guess is that the measure was designed to expand regulatory authority of the EPA. That’s a whole different issue altogether.

102

wrenchwench Wed, Mar 16, 2011 10:57:22am

re: #101 acacia

This doesn’t surprise me but I suspect that this was not simply an up or down vote on “science.” If it were, then what was the point of the vote? My guess is that the measure was designed to expand regulatory authority of the EPA. That’s a whole different issue altogether.

You don’t have to guess. You could read the article.

See whether that changes your mind.

103

wrenchwench Wed, Mar 16, 2011 10:57:41am

re: #100 wvng

Because SHUT UP THAT’S WHY!!!

Welcome, hatchling.

104

acacia Wed, Mar 16, 2011 12:35:21pm

re: #102 wrenchwench

It actually confirms what I thought. The real debate is whether to get the EPA more involved in climate change regulation. The Republicans say no, the Dems say yes. The Democrats want the Republicans on record as saying there is no climate change so they can push for more regulation by pointing to the anti science position. The Republicans don’t want to vote for anything that can be remotely construed as warranting further intervention into the climate change regulation business even though the vote - apparently - doesn’t expressly say so. I’m not saying many Republicans aren’t anti science but this is purely political grandstanding from both sides with the real issue being regulation.

105

Charles Johnson Thu, Mar 17, 2011 10:55:35am

re: #104 acacia

Not even close. The real issue absolutely IS the anti-science craziness of the GOP. If Republicans were to admit that climate change is actually happening, they’d be put in the uncomfortable position of having to do something about it, and doing something would involve the EPA.

This isn’t about the EPA’s role in climate legislation — it’s about a Republican Party so in thrall to energy special interests that they’re in craven denial of the worst problem facing humanity today.

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