Far Right Political Stunt of the Day: Rand Paul Sues Obama Over NSA Surveillance

Shameless grandstanding from the libertarian right, co-starring Ken Cuccinelli
Politics • Views: 29,411

Get ready for another round of “I Stand With Rand” proclamations from the libertarians on the left, as Rand Paul Sues Obama Over NSA Surveillance.

WASHINGTON (AP) — Republican Sen. Rand Paul and a tea-party backed group are suing the Obama administration over the National Security Agency’s phone record collection policies. Paul says the suit is filed for themselves and on behalf of all Americans who are or have been customers of phone service in the United States since 2006.

The Kentucky senator and Freedomworks are represented by former Virginia Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli, who unsuccessfully ran for Virginia governor last year.

Yes, that’s the same Ken Cuccinelli who promoted a medieval anti-sodomy law, and carried out an anti-science witch hunt against climate scientist Michael Mann.

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225 comments
1 FemNaziBitch  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 12:52:27pm

And, what does this have to do with jobs?

2 Ian G.  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 12:54:42pm

I’ve often said to myself that, without his daddy, Bill Kristol would probably be a high school social studies teacher or a middle manager at an accounting firm.

I’d say the same about Rand Paul, but he’s too fuckin’ dumb to teach high schoolers or understand accounting. He’d probably be the janitor at Ernst and Young.

3 Targetpractice  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 12:54:48pm

re: #1 FemNaziBitch

And, what does this have to do with jobs?

Protecting his, as well as helping him expand his resume in order to get the job he really wants in the Oval Office.

4 b.d.  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 12:57:22pm

re: #1 FemNaziBitch

And, what does this have to do with jobs?

This is all about creating high paying jobs for the elite wingnuts. Tiliting at Obama’s windmills has been a lucrative scam for them for a long time.

5 Lidane  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 12:57:27pm

re: #1 FemNaziBitch

And, what does this have to do with jobs?

He’s providing work for all the idiot dudebro bloggers who think he’s on their side.

6 Dr. Matt  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 12:58:22pm
Paul says the suit is filed for themselves and on behalf of all Americans who are or have been customers of phone service in the United States since 2006.

Please remove me from this class action bullshit suit

7 Targetpractice  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 12:58:31pm
Yes, that’s the same Ken Cuccinelli who promoted a medieval anti-sodomy law, and carried out an anti-science witch hunt against climate scientist Michael Mann.

8 HappyWarrior  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:02:03pm

re: #7 Targetpractice

[Embedded image]

Hey at least he’s not our governor.

9 Targetpractice  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:03:07pm

re: #8 HappyWarrior

Hey at least he’s not our governor.

Thank God for small favors.

10 b.d.  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:07:04pm

re: #1 FemNaziBitch

And, what does this have to do with jobs?

STEP ONE IN BEING A WINGNUT WELFARE JOB CREATOR, GET THE MARKS CONTACT INFO

FreedomWorks, Rand Paul, and Ken Cuccinelli are suing the NSA.

Yes, you read that right!

We’ve heard reports about NSA data collection from Glenn Beck, Mark Levin and Fox News. And that’s why we’re taking the NSA to court.

Will you support our class action lawsuit?

Sign up and let us know you have our back as we take on the NSA!

nsa.act.freedomworks.org

11 chadu  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:09:30pm

re: #1 FemNaziBitch

And, what does this have to do with jobs?

It has everything to do with jobs because shut up.

12 Lidane  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:11:58pm

re: #7 Targetpractice

That’s my general reaction to Rand Paul. And the GOP.

Watching the Freepers and teabaggers flip their shit, however, is hilarious.

13 BusyMonster  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:12:23pm

I got to vote against this stupid ass in 2010. I guess there’s still time for me to move back to vote against him again in 2016.

He’s a huge embarrassment to my former state of residence, a near-textbook example of an overprivileged Good Ole Boy. His phony medical board, his literal jack-booted thugs keeping dissent quiet … .he’s a real piece of garbage, Rand Paul is.

14 Kragar  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:16:27pm

The part I love is when Rand and all the other libertarians pull up to the courthouse in one tiny car and they all come tumbling out.

I love a good clown show.

15 BongCrodny  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:18:53pm

No-class action.

16 b.d.  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:22:08pm

I didn’t think that you could sue a sitting president?

17 darthstar  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:25:43pm

HA!

18 Kragar  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:25:58pm
19 Testy Toad T  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:28:02pm

re: #18 Kragar

Who would ever think that a university [sic] named after its founder might be slightly prone to putting the needs of the boss ahead of the needs of the masses…

20 Justanotherhuman  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:29:00pm

Haha, this happened in Charlotte today.

twitpic.com

21 Kragar  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:30:49pm

re: #19 Testy Toad T

Who would ever think that a university [sic] named after its founder might be slightly prone to putting the needs of the boss ahead of the needs of the masses…

Stories like this makes me think the Romans had the right idea with the whole lions thing.

Bastards.

22 Lidane  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:31:22pm
23 Sophist, D.D., DDS, DFH  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:31:46pm

He could run a late-night ad trolling for participants, in between all the ones from ambulance chasers looking for people who think they have mesothelioma because they were within 50 feet of some asbestos once and they cough sometimes. It’d fit right in.

24 EPR-radar  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:32:59pm

re: #21 Kragar

Stories like this makes me think the Romans had the right idea with the whole lions thing.

Bastards.

There might be a technical issue here.

Does feeding hard-right US culture war leaders to lions really count as feeding Christians to Lions?

25 A Mom Anon  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:33:32pm

re: #20 Justanotherhuman

It seems that almost everyone in Atlanta got smart and stayed home today. Last I checked, the interstates were nearly empty and around here it’s been eerily quiet, I don’t think even a dozen cars have passed the house. Our street is a pretty heavily travelled secondary road, it’s usually packed around this time of day. I guess people actually learned from the last time a couple weeks ago.

26 Sophist, D.D., DDS, DFH  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:33:57pm

re: #16 b.d.

I didn’t think that you could sue a sitting president?

Legally, no, but you can certainly hold a press conference telling everyone that you are in order to drum up support from the pig people (and do a little grifting on the side).

27 Justanotherhuman  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:34:19pm

So Rand Paul is jumping the gun on GG & Co, or is this a collaboration?

28 Charles Johnson  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:34:59pm
29 Bulworth  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:35:40pm

Who cares about where Rand Stands on gay rights or healthcare access or the minimum wage or consumer safety or a worker’s right to unionize because Rand is Standing on the really important issue of NSA ASSAULT and by Standing up to NSA Rand is accomplishing….something.

30 Justanotherhuman  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:36:08pm

re: #25 A Mom Anon

It seems that almost everyone in Atlanta got smart and stayed home today. Last I checked, the interstates were nearly empty and around here it’s been eerily quiet, I don’t think even a dozen cars have passed the house. Our street is a pretty heavily travelled secondary road, it’s usually packed around this time of day. I guess people actually learned from the last time a couple weeks ago.

Well, that’s good! The NC Triad didn’t learn, though. : ) Why people even bothered going in to work today is beyond me.

31 EPR-radar  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:37:24pm

re: #30 Justanotherhuman

Nasty. This is precisely why I live in the SF bay area. I will never be forced to drive through crap like that.

32 Varek Raith  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:37:56pm

7-12 inches expected in my area tonight and tomorrow.
Whee!

33 Bulworth  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:38:15pm

re: #27 Justanotherhuman

Don’t worry about Rand’s email collecting because NSA ASSAULT!!!1111

34 Feline Fearless Leader  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:39:00pm

re: #30 Justanotherhuman

Well, that’s good! The NC Triad didn’t learn, though. : ) Why people even bothered going in to work today is beyond me.

CNN was just covering that about how Charlotte and surrounding area has a monster traffic jam due to snow/ice.

35 jaunte  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:39:11pm

re: #27 Justanotherhuman

Sen. Rand Paul will on Wednesday announce a class action suit against the NSA for scooping up Americans’ telephone call data. Want to join in? Just give Paul your email address.

Hilarious.

36 A Mom Anon  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:39:34pm

re: #31 EPR-radar

I wish I had the choice to move out West, I’d go in a minute. Hell, I moved South from Ohio (in part) to escape this crap.

37 Bulworth  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:39:58pm

OK, I know Rand doesn’t stand on any of the issues I say I care about and I only agree with him on the NSA SPYING issue but until we destroy the NSA and CIA we won’t have any freedom or any rights anyway.

38 Kragar  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:39:59pm
39 EPR-radar  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:40:54pm

re: #36 A Mom Anon

I wish I had the choice to move out West, I’d go in a minute. Hell, I moved South from Ohio (in part) to escape this crap.

Being out here also has its minuses. For example, I’ll most likely be renting until I retire.

40 Backwoods_Sleuth  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:42:48pm

re: #20 Justanotherhuman

Haha, this happened in Charlotte today.

twitpic.com

MrBWS is on his way to Wilmington on I-40. He just sent me this picture:

Heading to the Beach!

41 b.d.  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:42:59pm

UNDER A PRESIDENT RAND PAUL WE WOULDN’T HAVE THE EPA, DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION, EQUAL PROTECTION, VOTING RIGHTS, THE RIGHT TO CHOOSE AND MANY OTHER THINGS BUT AT LEAST WE WOULDN’T HAVE THE NSA. THAT’S GOOD ENOUGH FOR ME!!!!!

42 Kragar  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:44:46pm

“911, I need help. I just got beat up by a bunch of guys outside a club. They said i deserved it for being gay.”

“Oh a gay boy, huh? Well, get your ass off of 911, we don’t serve your kind here.”

“Please, I need an ambulance.”

“Thats too bad. They don’t serve your kind either. If you keep calling, we’ll have to send a car to place you under arrest.”

Fuck you GOP.

43 BongCrodny  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:44:47pm

re: #27 Justanotherhuman

Just give Paul your email address

Swell. Noble Rand Paul suing on behalf of internet scammers everywhere.

44 Targetpractice  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:45:07pm

re: #32 Varek Raith

7-12 inches expected in my area tonight and tomorrow.
Whee!

Enjoy. We might get 1-2”, but it’s expected to shift over to rain overnight.

45 Backwoods_Sleuth  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:45:16pm

re: #30 Justanotherhuman

Well, that’s good! The NC Triad didn’t learn, though. : ) Why people even bothered going in to work today is beyond me.

[Embedded content]

Yep, MrBWS managed to get through that parking lot, but it took him hours.

46 Dr Lizardo  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:45:53pm

re: #30 Justanotherhuman

Well, that’s good! The NC Triad didn’t learn, though. : ) Why people even bothered going in to work today is beyond me.

[Embedded content]

That photo with the folks walking and abandoned cars (and a nice big traffic jam as well) looks almost apocalyptic. Like something out of a disaster film.

47 dog philosopher  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:46:50pm

re: #18 Kragar

Bob Jones Univ. told sexual assault victims not to report crime as it would “damage Jesus Christ”

this is the kind of thing that “what the fuck??” was invented for

48 Varek Raith  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:47:15pm

re: #30 Justanotherhuman

Well, that’s good! The NC Triad didn’t learn, though. : ) Why people even bothered going in to work today is beyond me.

[Embedded content]

Really, people?
Really?

49 Bulworth  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:47:28pm

re: #41 b.d.

OK, under President Rand Paul we wouldn’t have any of those things but we would have a NSA but President Rand’s NSA would be better. Because.

50 Dr Lizardo  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:47:45pm

re: #42 Kragar

“911, I need help. I just got beat up by a bunch of guys outside a club. They said i deserved it for being gay.”

“Oh a gay boy, huh? Well, get your ass off of 911, we don’t serve your kind here.”

“Please, I need an ambulance.”

“Thats too bad. They don’t serve your kind either. If you keep calling, we’ll have to send a car to place you under arrest.”

Fuck you GOP.

Yeah…….Idaho is definitely wingnut central. Lots of white supremacists/white nationalists in that neck of the woods.

51 Kragar  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:48:14pm

re: #44 Targetpractice

Enjoy. We >might get 1-2”, but it’s expected to shift over to rain overnight.

Our 3 day forecast: Sunny, 80 during the day, 50s at night

52 Varek Raith  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:48:21pm

re: #44 Targetpractice

Enjoy. We >might get 1-2”, but it’s expected to shift over to rain overnight.

You suck.

53 Varek Raith  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:48:51pm

re: #51 Kragar

Our 3 day forecast: Sunny, 80 during the day, 50s at night

You suck too.

54 EPR-radar  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:49:07pm

re: #47 dog philosopher

this is the kind of thing that “what the fuck??” was invented for

I think we can get a little bit more pointed here than WTF.

Religious fundamentalism as at BJU enables rape and rapists to such an extent that rape may as well be an 11th commandment of their twisted religion.

55 freetoken  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:49:55pm

It’ sunny and 78F right now. Maybe I’ll go for a walk later, after it cools down a bit.

56 wrenchwench  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:50:41pm

re: #45 Backwoods_Sleuth

Yep, MrBWS managed to get through that parking lot, but it took him hours.

I just talked with my stepmom. She’s made a reservation at a hotel in case the power goes out. “I’m not staying home with no power. I’m too old for that shit.” (She’s 67.) My dad assured her a cab could always get through to deliver them.

57 jaunte  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:51:43pm

re: #55 freetoken

We’re all coming over.

58 dog philosopher  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:53:19pm

re: #32 Varek Raith

7-12 inches expected in my area tonight and tomorrow.
Whee!

that’s what i told her but she slapped me

59 b_sharp  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:53:36pm

re: #55 freetoken

It’ sunny and 78F right now. Maybe I’ll go for a walk later, after it cools down a bit.

Asshole.

60 Kragar  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:53:49pm

re: #58 dog philosopher

that’s what i told her but she slapped me

HIGH FIVE!

61 Justanotherhuman  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:54:02pm

re: #38 Kragar

[Embedded content]

The right to practice your religion doesn’t cover discrimination against people when they’re protected by laws.

62 Lidane  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:55:28pm

re: #38 Kragar

Meanwhile, a Dallas sportscaster had a shocking reaction to Michael Sam coming out:

Youtube Video

63 Feline Fearless Leader  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:55:36pm

re: #40 Backwoods_Sleuth

MrBWS is on his way to Wilmington on I-40. He just sent me this picture:

Heading to the Beach!

I think Wilmington itself switched back over to rain already. And not expected to get any more snow, just more rain.

64 Targetpractice  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:55:39pm

re: #52 Varek Raith

You suck.

Hey, we already got our blizzard for this year. By the time it was over, I couldn’t feel my frakin’ toes!

65 Kragar  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:57:14pm

re: #62 Lidane

Meanwhile, a Dallas sportscaster had a shocking reaction to Michael Sam coming out:

[Embedded content]

That guy is awesome.

66 Charles Johnson  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:57:16pm
67 Kragar  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 1:58:33pm

re: #64 Targetpractice

Hey, we already got our blizzard for this year. By the time it was over, I couldn’t feel my frakin’ toes!

What about your non frakin’ toes?

68 Backwoods_Sleuth  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:00:00pm

re: #63 Feline Fearless Leader

I think Wilmington itself switched back over to rain already. And not expected to get any more snow, just more rain.

That’s good, it will make repairs relatively easier if the guys don’t have to work in really bad weather conditions. Progress Energy’s outage map says 46,693 outages (40.27% of the customers) for New Hanover County.

69 wrenchwench  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:00:13pm

re: #62 Lidane

Meanwhile, a Dallas sportscaster had a shocking reaction to Michael Sam coming out:

[Embedded content]

Awesome.

70 Testy Toad T  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:00:48pm

re: #19 Testy Toad T

Who would ever think that a university [sic] named after its founder might be slightly prone to putting the needs of the boss ahead of the needs of the masses…

Thank God Stanford is actually named after the founder’s son, or I would have looked like a real moron.

71 Targetpractice  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:01:13pm

re: #67 Kragar

What about your non frakin’ toes?

Frostbite.

72 Justanotherhuman  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:02:50pm

re: #63 Feline Fearless Leader

I think Wilmington itself switched back over to rain already. And not expected to get any more snow, just more rain.

Yeah, but it’s frozen solid!

73 freetoken  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:05:25pm

re: #57 jaunte

We’re all coming over.

Food/drink donations required.

I’m especially fond of freshly made corn tortilla fish tacos.

74 Backwoods_Sleuth  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:10:09pm

McConnell’s tea party challenger in the primary just tweeted this:

75 Justanotherhuman  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:10:20pm

It’s 34 deg right now in Wilmington, and probably falling. Story here about a person being killed by a falling tree branch in Pender County, adjacent to NHanover.

wect.com

76 Lidane  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:10:56pm
77 freetoken  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:11:48pm

Looking at the poor reporting over that publication of the DNA of the Native American boy from thousands of years ago, I lament the poor state of not only ‘journalism’ but of our collective understanding of the past and the all-to-frequent desire to grasp onto fantasies.

Speaking of which:

S.C. creationist lawmaker blocks school evolution standards ‘to teach both sides

South Carolina state Sen. Mike Fair (R) said this week that he insisted that the state’s Education Oversight Committee not approve new standards for teaching evolution to give students a chance to “draw their own conclusions” about creationism.

There are the occasional small victories for modernity:

Charter School Pulls Creationism Workbook After Slate Investigation

78 Targetpractice  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:12:12pm

re: #76 Lidane

[Embedded content]

Apparently The Day After Tomorrow was a prophecy. Guess it’s time to pack up and move to Mexico.

79 Lidane  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:12:17pm

re: #74 Backwoods_Sleuth

If McConnell loses the primary, the national GOP is going to have a fit.

80 freetoken  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:13:26pm

re: #79 Lidane

If McConnell loses the primary, the national GOP is going to have a fit.

But what will happen if the victor tea partier then wins the general election?

Remember, this is the state that gave us Rand Paul, and to which Ken Ham moved to set up his creation museum.

81 Justanotherhuman  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:13:29pm

re: #76 Lidane

[Embedded content]

I read elsewhere that it’s the most severe flooding since the 1700s in the UK. And Wales was getting 100 mph winds today as well.

82 Targetpractice  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:13:42pm

re: #74 Backwoods_Sleuth

McConnell’s tea party challenger in the primary just tweeted this:

[Embedded content]

While I wouldn’t might seeing McConnell taking a hike, I’d like to see the Democrat have that honor. We already have enough loons in Congress as is.

83 Feline Fearless Leader  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:13:58pm

re: #75 Justanotherhuman

It’s 34 deg right now in Wilmington, and probably falling. Story here about a person being killed by a falling tree branch in Pender County, adjacent to NHanover.

wect.com

Yahoo Weather projects Wilmington as 34F currently, but on a warming trend and into the 40s by tonight and staying there through tomorrow.

84 jaunte  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:15:03pm

re: #74 Backwoods_Sleuth

Set. 10, 2013: Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell’s (R-KY) conservative challenger on Monday accused Republican leaders of “surrender” on Obamacare for refusing to risk a government shutdown over defunding the law.
talkingpointsmemo.com

He wasn’t too worried about wasting $24 Billion for nothing in the govt. shutdown.

85 jc717  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:15:29pm

I really wish that all these ‘libertarians’ would tackle an issue that has eroded the 4th amendment much further than anything the NSA has done: the search and seizure drug enforcement laws. There is so much incentive in some states for corruption and abuse that police are simply robbing people who don’t have the resources to properly fight in court.
In several states, a portion of the assets seized by the police goes towards their budget and bonuses. Suing the NSA is silly theatrics.

86 Iwouldprefernotto  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:15:36pm

re: #74 Backwoods_Sleuth

McConnell’s tea party challenger in the primary just tweeted this:

[Embedded content]

I want a check worth infinity!

87 Dr Lizardo  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:16:17pm

re: #76 Lidane

[Embedded content]

I’m not seeing England; is it under that enormous storm system somewhere?

88 Lidane  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:16:23pm

re: #80 freetoken

But what will happen if the victor tea partier then wins the general election?

It’s another lunatic in office, but one without any of McConnell’s seniority or influence.

89 Lidane  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:17:14pm

re: #87 Dr Lizardo

I’m not seeing England; is it under that enormous storm system somewhere?

It’s buried under all the flooding that’s just under that storm system.

90 Dr Lizardo  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:17:15pm

re: #78 Targetpractice

Apparently The Day After Tomorrow was a prophecy. Guess it’s time to pack up and move to Mexico.

To heck with that; I’m going to Africa, specifically, to Uganda. Remember the end of 2012? Africa was the only thing left!

91 HappyWarrior  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:17:16pm

re: #18 Kragar

[Embedded content]

Fuckers.

92 Dr Lizardo  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:17:43pm

re: #89 Lidane

It’s buried under all the flooding that’s just under that storm system.

Ah, OK. I was wondering where it’d had gone to.

93 piratedan  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:18:05pm

re: #35 jaunte

i wonder if he’ll launch the same investigation into the companies that sold your e-mail address to other organizations? /////

94 dog philosopher  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:18:37pm

re: #79 Lidane

If McConnell loses the primary, the national GOP is going to have a fit.

they’ll run mcconnell as an ‘independant’, and make sure he wins the general

95 HappyWarrior  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:19:57pm

re: #38 Kragar

[Embedded content]

Uh no sorry if you think your religious beliefs should forbid you from helping people you know your whole oath as a cop or doctor, then you shouldn’t fucking be a cop or doctor. People shouldn’t have to die or suffer because some religious fanatic thinks it’s okay to deny assistance to a gay person because of their “religious beliefs.” So much for love thy neighbor.

96 Targetpractice  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:21:30pm

re: #90 Dr Lizardo

To heck with that; I’m going to Africa, specifically, to Uganda. Remember the end of 2012? Africa was the only thing left!

I notice that Roland Emmerich films always seem to have the same ending: Billions die, but there’s some light at the end of the tunnel.

97 Testy Toad T  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:21:34pm

re: #88 Lidane

It’s another lunatic in office, but one without any of McConnell’s seniority or influence.

On the other hand: less turtle jokes.

98 BongCrodny  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:22:59pm

re: #62 Lidane

Meanwhile, a Dallas sportscaster had a shocking reaction to Michael Sam coming out:

[Embedded content]

Fuck, yeah. 10+.

That’s worth paging, if you haven’t yet.

99 jaunte  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:23:29pm

Feds: Mexican Tycoon Exploited Super PACs to Influence U.S. Elections

In a first of its kind case, federal prosecutors say a Mexican businessman funnelled more than $500,000 into U.S. political races through Super PACs and various shell companies. The alleged financial scheme is the first known instance of a foreign national exploiting the Supreme Court’s Citizens United decision in order to influence U.S. elections. If proven, the campaign finance scandal could reshape the public debate over the high court’s landmark decision.

100 jaunte  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:24:20pm
” The controversy dates back to 2010, when President Obama used his State of the Union address to lament that Citizens United would “open the floodgates” for foreigners and special interest groups to “spend without limit in our elections.”

The remark famously prompted Justice Samuel Alito to shake his head and mouth the words “not true” during the address.”

101 freetoken  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:25:36pm

Uh oh, looks like another fundamentalist meme is going to bite the dust:

The Emperor Has No Clothes: A Review of the ‘Pornography Addiction’ Model

The addiction model is rarely used to describe high-frequency use of visual sexual stimuli (VSS) in research, yet common in media and clinical practice. The theory and research behind ‘pornography addiction’ is hindered by poor experimental designs, limited methodological rigor, and lack of model specification. The history and limitations of addiction models are reviewed, including how VSS fails to meet standards of addiction. These include how VSS use can reduce health-risk behaviors. Proposed negative effects, including erectile problems, difficulty regulating sexual feelings, and neuroadaptations are discussed as non-pathological evidence of learning. Individuals reporting ‘addictive’ use of VSS could be better conceptualized by considering issues such as gender, sexual orientation, libido, desire for sensation, with internal and external conflicts influenced by religiosity and desire discrepancy. Since a large, lucrative industry has promised treatments for pornography addiction despite this poor evidence, scientific psychologists are called to declare the emperor (treatment industry) has no clothes (supporting evidence). When faced with such complaints, clinicians are encouraged to address behaviors without conjuring addiction labels.

102 HappyWarrior  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:26:16pm

re: #62 Lidane

Meanwhile, a Dallas sportscaster had a shocking reaction to Michael Sam coming out:

[Embedded content]

Very good reaction. Great calling out the hypocrisy on the right too.

103 HappyWarrior  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:27:06pm

re: #100 jaunte

Well how does Alito like em apples.

104 Dr Lizardo  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:28:20pm

re: #96 Targetpractice

I notice that Roland Emmerich films always seem to have the same ending: Billions die, but there’s some light at the end of the tunnel.

Classic disaster movie formula; the point of a disaster film isn’t the disaster itself, it’s how those caught up in the disastrous events react.

I actually enjoyed 2012 - it was a good disaster film. Wholly ridiculous, but entertaining.

105 jaunte  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:28:56pm

re: #103 HappyWarrior

Step One: Ignore it until it gets much much bigger.

106 Targetpractice  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:29:50pm

re: #104 Dr Lizardo

Classic disaster movie formula; the point of a disaster film isn’t the disaster itself, it’s how those caught up in the disastrous events react.

I actually enjoyed 2012 - it was a good disaster film. Wholly ridiculous, but entertaining.

I find Emmerich’s films are good as character pieces, watching how their reaction to the disaster, because if I actually try to begin to explain how science doesn’t work that way, I get a migraine.

107 Targetpractice  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:35:46pm

*taps mic* Is this thing on?

108 Dr Lizardo  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:36:28pm

re: #106 Targetpractice

I find Emmerich’s films are good as character pieces, watching how they reaction to the disaster, because if I actually try to begin to explain how science doesn’t work that way, I get a migraine.

The science in Emmerich’s films is about as credible as the science of Erich von Däniken…..it’s 100% pure, unadulterated woo.

I grew up in the 70s, when “Chariots Of The Gods” was a big thing - TV specials, of course the book, many derivative works in both print and TV, films, etc. Fortunately, I had my parents around to explain to me that it was a bunch of BS, the result of von Däniken and his fellow-travelers misinterpreting evidence and making the evidence fit their preconceived notions.

109 freetoken  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:38:10pm

re: #107 Targetpractice

*taps mic* Is this thing on?

Researching what the researchers meant by “VSS”…

110 darthstar  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:38:38pm
111 Backwoods_Sleuth  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:39:25pm
112 Ian G.  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:41:54pm

re: #74 Backwoods_Sleuth

I never knew that Medicare, Social Security, and the military were “pet projects”.

113 wrenchwench  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:45:19pm

re: #99 jaunte

Feds: Mexican Tycoon Exploited Super PACs to Influence U.S. Elections

I can’t get in. Was it Carlos Slim?

114 jaunte  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:46:08pm

“This cycle’s [GOP] lieutenant governor primary has been a tipping point of sorts. All four candidates stood up late last month at a debate and could barely contain their nativism. Dan Patrick was the loudest-mouthed of them, and his campaign is largely centered around warning of “alien” “invasions” of Texas. Villareal says Hispanic Republicans have taken note of Patrick’s views, which have become representative of Republicans’ rejection of Hispanic people.

“I don’t know of one Hispanic Republican who isn’t appalled by Dan Patrick,” he said. “If Dan Patrick wins, he will be the Pete Wilson of Texas…When Dan Patrick talks about illegals, he’s talking about my father”

115 The Ghost of a Flea  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:47:01pm

re: #113 wrenchwench

I can’t get in. Was it Carlos Slim?

Jose Susumo Azano Matsura

116 jaunte  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:47:13pm

re: #113 wrenchwench

It was Jose Susumo Azano Matsura:
standard.net

117 wrenchwench  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:48:07pm

re: #115 The Ghost of a Flea

Jose Susumo Azano Matsura

re: #116 jaunte

It was Jose Susumo Azano Matsura:
standard.net

Thanks.

118 jaunte  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:48:11pm
“According to the complaint, Azano’s money traveled through a U.S.-based shell company before arriving at the Super PAC. Because the Super PAC was only required to disclose the name of the U.S. shell company, the contributions appeared to be U.S.-based.”
standard.net
119 freetoken  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:48:13pm

re: #114 jaunte

But… but… but… Ted Cruz!

120 wrenchwench  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:49:05pm

re: #114 jaunte

[Embedded content]

That’s great.

“I have made the Kool-Aid for many years for other Hispanics to come into the party - I made the Kool-Aid and people drank it,” Villarreal told the Houston Chronicle. “And I refuse to make that kind of Kool-Aid anymore. Not for this party. Not for these leaders.”

121 wrenchwench  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:50:30pm

re: #118 jaunte

Jaunte, what have you done?!?

Until now, allegations surrounding Jose Susumo Azano Matsura, the owner of multiple construction companies in Mexico, have not spread beyond local news outlets in San Diego, where he’s accused of bankrolling a handful of southern California candidates.

122 Killgore Trout  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:50:31pm

re: #99 jaunte

Feds: Mexican Tycoon Exploited Super PACs to Influence U.S. Elections

Shhh! Money in politics is only bad when Republican do it.
/

123 jaunte  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:51:17pm

re: #122 Killgore Trout

I think it’ll catch on everywhere.

124 Killgore Trout  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:55:17pm

re: #123 jaunte

I think it’ll catch on everywhere.

I would like to see a real scientific study of political campaign finances. Do they really need that much money? Do all the ad buys really change public opinion any? Do yard signs and flyers really do anything. I strongly suspect the vast majority of campaign spending is wasted money.

125 freetoken  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:55:18pm

Is Rand Paul plagiarizing again?

Rand Paul and Ken Cuccinelli accused of stealing NSA lawsuit

126 Justanotherhuman  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:56:49pm

Due to the high volume of accidents, police will only respond to serious ones.

Snow arrives in the Triangle, causing gridlock on the roads

Read more here: newsobserver.com

And in failing journalism standards, someone put Feb 11 on that photo with the trooper.

127 wrenchwench  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:57:13pm

re: #124 Killgore Trout

I would like to see a real scientific study of political campaign finances. Do they really need that much money? Do all the ad buys really change public opinion any? Do yard signs and flyers really do anything. I strongly suspect the vast majority of campaign spending is wasted money.

Rule of thumb in advertising is that half your money is wasted. You just never know which half.

Science on it would be great. We need more money for that!

128 Pie-onist Overlord  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:57:16pm

Bryan Fischer has been visiting Ted Cruz’s ancestral homeland.

I guess they have no Twitters there.

129 Killgore Trout  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 2:58:28pm

Really?

The Obama administration is looking to exchange Guantanamo Bay detainees for Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl as part of a broader effort to reconcile with the Taliban.

….according to interviews with current U.S., Afghan, and Pakistani senior officials, the potential new U.S.-Taliban prisoner swap talks, which have not yet begun, are linked to a broader U.S. government effort to lay the groundwork for a potential reconciliation between the Afghan government led by Hamid Karzai and the Taliban, who he has been fighting since the beginning of the decade-long U.S. occupation. As part of the outreach effort, American officials have repeatedly asked the Pakistani government to release a captured Taliban leader. Meanwhile, semi-official talks are ongoing in Doha, Qatar, where the Taliban maintains an office that officially never opened.

“The Doha channel is still being used for contacts between the U.S. and the Taliban,” a senior Pakistani official told The Daily Beast.

130 Killgore Trout  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 3:00:55pm

Really?

Back in Washington, the Obama administration worked late last year to pave the way for a potential prisoner swap. Obama’s aides pushed to relax a law that previously required the Defense Secretary to certify that any prisoners released from Guantanamo would not pose an ongoing national security threat to the United States.

A small change in the Fiscal Year 2014 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which passed last December, now makes it only a requirement that the Defense Secretary notify Congress when releasing Guantanamo prisoners. That would make it easier to effect the Taliban prisoner swap, if the negotiations ever got that far.

131 freetoken  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 3:02:06pm

Yet another paper about “VSS”:


Strong religious beliefs may drive self-perception of addiction to online pornography

People who consider themselves very religious and view Internet porn even once may perceive they are addicted, according to a new Case Western Reserve University’s psychology study.

“This is one of the first studies to examine the link between perceptions of addiction to online pornography and religious beliefs,” said Joshua Grubbs, a doctoral student in psychology and lead author of the study.

The research, “Transgression as Addiction: Religiosity and Moral Disapproval as Predictors of Perceived Addiction to Pornography,” will be published today in the journal, Archives of Sexual Behavior.

“We were surprised that the amount of viewing did not impact the perception of addiction, but strong moral beliefs did,” Grubbs said. He defined Internet pornography as viewing online sexually explicit pictures and videos.

The study is part of a $1.4 million project funded by the John Templeton Foundation to study spiritual struggles and stress. […]

Grubbs, who attended a conservative university as an undergraduate, became interested in the topic after observing fellow students in distress because they thought something was terribly wrong with them after watching online pornography.

Grubbs also discovered that half of the more than 1,200 books about pornography addiction on Amazon.com were listed in the religious and spirituality sections. And many of the books were personal testimonials about the struggles with this addiction, he said.

To find out why people have self-perceptions of addiction, Grubbs conducted three studies in which he surveyed people about their strength of faith, religious practices and online viewing habits. Respondents also completed a survey to measure their perception of addiction.

Two studies involved a general student population of men and women (with an average age of 19) from non-secular (331 participants) and religious (97 participants) higher education institutions. A third study captured the views of an online adult population of individuals 18 and older (208 participants), with an average age of 32.

Across the three studies, Grubbs said, more than half of the participants reported being Christian or Catholic, heterosexual and Caucasian. About a third reported no religious affiliation.

Men generally reported having greater moral disapproval than women for viewing online pornography. Overall, the three studies showed no significant gender differences in being religious.

The respondents acknowledged viewing online pornography at least once in the past six months, Grubbs said. But the findings revealed no connection between hours viewed and how religious a person was.

The number of hours spent viewing were similar for each study: about 25 percent viewed pornography one to three times in six months; 13 percent, four to six times; about 8 percent, seven to nine times; and the remaining participants about 10 or more times.

The information may help therapists understand that the perception of addiction is more about religious beliefs than actual viewing, researchers concluded.

“We can help the individual understand what is driving this perception,” Grubbs said, “and help individuals better enjoy their faith.”

132 Justanotherhuman  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 3:02:24pm

re: #125 freetoken

Is Rand Paul plagiarizing again?

Rand Paul and Ken Cuccinelli accused of stealing NSA lawsuit

“Paul’s aides didn’t answer my questions about Fein, but behind the scenes they reacted angrily to his accusations.”

When you’re caught and called out, react aggressively and angrily and deny everything.

133 Targetpractice  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 3:04:03pm

re: #131 freetoken

Yet another paper about “VSS”:

Strong religious beliefs may drive self-perception of addiction to online pornography

So in other words the people most convinced that pornography is addictive are those who preach against it in the name of “morality”?

134 wrenchwench  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 3:04:36pm

re: #116 jaunte

It was Jose Susumo Azano Matsura:
standard.net

When Republicans find out he helped Democrats, maybe then they’ll take a critical look at Citizens United.

135 freetoken  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 3:04:47pm

re: #133 Targetpractice

So in other words the people most convinced that pornography is addictive are those who preach against it in the name of “morality”?

Shockingly (not), Yes.

136 Varek Raith  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 3:05:04pm

re: #122 Killgore Trout

Shhh! Money in politics is only bad when Republican do it.
/

It all depends on what the money is for.
Like denying basic science.
Or basic rights to certain groups of people.
That sort of thing.

138 klys  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 3:06:42pm

re: #136 Varek Raith

It all depends on what the money is for.
Like denying basic science.
Or basic rights to certain groups of people.
That sort of thing.

Democrats have totally not cared about campaign finance. That’s why the only pushback against Citizens United has come from the Republicans.

//

139 A Mom Anon  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 3:07:35pm

re: #133 Targetpractice

Or we could sum it up in two words: Guilt, Shame.

140 Dr Lizardo  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 3:09:23pm

re: #137 Varek Raith

South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley is supporting a bill that would remove the permit and training requirements for carrying a concealed weapon.

What could possibly go wrong, etc.

*headdesk*

141 Killgore Trout  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 3:09:38pm

re: #138 klys

Democrats have totally not cared about campaign finance. That’s why the only pushback against Citizens United has come from the Republicans.

//

Rand Paul! Rand Paul repeats: It’s still not constitutional

142 Varek Raith  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 3:10:45pm

re: #141 Killgore Trout

Rand Paul! Rand Paul repeats: It’s still not constitutional

So, you like this Rand Paul feller?
:P

143 jaunte  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 3:11:29pm

re: #141 Killgore Trout

“Just because a couple people on the Supreme Court declare something to be ‘constitutional’ does not make it so.”

Every man a judge-king!

144 Targetpractice  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 3:12:44pm

re: #137 Varek Raith

South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley is supporting a bill that would remove the permit and training requirements for carrying a concealed weapon.

Because what we need out there are even more ginned up yahoos with absolutely no idea how to operate a gun.

145 EPR-radar  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 3:12:45pm

re: #65 Kragar

That guy is awesome.

Agreed 100%. TX liberals may be outnumbered, but they are still fighting the good fight.

146 Lidane  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 3:12:56pm

re: #98 BongCrodny

Fuck, yeah. 10+.

That’s worth paging, if you haven’t yet.

Done.

148 Justanotherhuman  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 3:16:46pm

re: #131 freetoken

Yet another paper about “VSS”:

Strong religious beliefs may drive self-perception of addiction to online pornography

It appears to be an open topic about which there are many positions (no pun intended).

theatlantic.com

149 darthstar  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 3:17:02pm
150 darthstar  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 3:18:11pm

re: #149 darthstar

My guess is it’s Satty drawing dicks on cars.

ATLANTA, GA-Still reeling from the aftermath of Snow Jam 2014, Atlanta Police put aside winter weather preparation this morning, shifting gears to what is now being referred to as “Snowcockalypse,” or “Dong Jam 2014.” The APD put out an all call for a criminal they are calling “The Penis Bandit,” whose alleged activities have put him on the top of their priority list.
Known in the Spanish-speaking areas of town as El Peno Bandidto, the vandal trawled our white-laced city drawing what APD Major Richard Wrankle described as “large, phallic images on snow-covered cars.”

One man whose car was vandalized described the images as “big ole dicks on my car, yo!”

151 Justanotherhuman  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 3:18:43pm

re: #149 darthstar

[Embedded content]

That doesn’t look like any penis I ever saw. : )

152 darthstar  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 3:20:56pm

re: #151 Justanotherhuman

That doesn’t look like any penis I ever saw. : )

Nobody said the unsub was good at drawing penises. I suspect that’s a satire site anyway…but still got a chuckle out of it.

153 abolitionist  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 3:21:08pm

re: #151 Justanotherhuman

That doesn’t look like any penis I ever saw. : )

That was cold. /

154 RadicalModerate  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 3:21:40pm

re: #62 Lidane

Meanwhile, a Dallas sportscaster had a shocking reaction to Michael Sam coming out:

[Embedded content]

Dammit. I’m actually having to agree with Dale Hansen on something. For those of you not in the Dallas TV market, he’s been around this area for what seems to be forever, and usually comes off as a grandstanding buffoon, with exceeded only by his inflated ego. However, this was a great editorial segment done by him.

155 b_sharp  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 3:23:28pm

re: #151 Justanotherhuman

That doesn’t look like any penis I ever saw. : )

I used to have one just like it but I traded it in for a trained cockatoo.

156 Charles Johnson  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 3:24:58pm
157 Killgore Trout  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 3:25:35pm

re: #143 jaunte

Every man a judge-king!

The libertarians are especially guilty of believing the Constitution says whatever they imagine.

158 RadicalModerate  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 3:26:48pm

Normally, I’m not a fan of click-grabbing headlines done by news websites, but I have to say this one actually made me laugh.

From CNN

159 Pie-onist Overlord  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 3:28:22pm

What right-wing racism? (not embedding, click at own risk)

HURR HURRR!!!!! DEMOCRATZ IS TEH REAL RACISTS!!!!!!! ROBERT BYRD!!!!! GEORGE WALLACE1!!!!!!! HURR HURR!!!!!!

160 Justanotherhuman  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 3:29:02pm

And they finally postponed the UNC-Duke game, too.

161 Killgore Trout  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 3:29:16pm

I guess the prisoner swap story checks out. Again another “leak” from white house insiders as a trial balloon to judge public opinion. I initial reaction is it’s a very very bad idea, I’m not sure I can be convinced on this one.

162 Justanotherhuman  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 3:30:13pm

re: #158 RadicalModerate

Normally, I’m not a fan of click-grabbing headlines done by news websites, but I have to say this one actually made me laugh.

From CNN

Drone goes inside sinkhole.

Youtube Video

163 Varek Raith  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 3:35:03pm

re: #157 Killgore Trout

The libertarians are especially guilty of believing the Constitution says whatever they imagine.

Says so right in the Constitution.

164 lawhawk  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 3:36:41pm

re: #160 Justanotherhuman

NWS just updated their storm predictions for NYC metro.

It’s worse.


Most of NYC is now in the 10-14 band, a significant increase from a few hours where 6-8 was most likely.

I’m still in the 10-14 band, though the 14+ isn’t that far away. Oy

165 dog philosopher  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 3:42:05pm

re: #158 RadicalModerate

Earth Eats Corvettes

nos habebit humus

166 klys  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 3:54:40pm

Another 1.5 hours of lecture on assembly code and then I can play fun games. Bravely Default is waiting for today’s to do list to be done.

167 EPR-radar  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 3:56:34pm

OT, but entertaining.

rawstory.com

Lou Dobbs at Fox apparently rakes Louie Gohmert (the platonic essence of stupidity) over the coals in relation to the recent bit of political theater in the House over the debt ceiling.

168 Backwoods_Sleuth  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 3:58:56pm
169 goddamnedfrank  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 3:59:42pm

re: #161 Killgore Trout

I guess the prisoner swap story checks out. Again another “leak” from white house insiders as a trial balloon to judge public opinion. I initial reaction is it’s a very very bad idea, I’m not sure I can be convinced on this one.

It’s traditional to exchange prisoners at the cessation of hostilities. Once we leave Afghanistan it is conceivably far more dangerous in the long term for us to violate that principal by stubbornly refusing to negotiate.

I think the people against a swap want to view this conflict as if it’s somehow unique, when it really isn’t. The lopsided numbers of their prisoners to ours doesn’t really change a lot except to reinforce the disparate military power, and how far we have stooped in engaging such an enemy in a ground war. Even still the physical environment, culture and tenacity of our enemy combines with our own public opinion to make unilateral victory impossible. So other than the fact that they only have one prisoner I’m not sure I can find any meaningful difference between this potential swap and our exit from Viet-Nam or the Korean armistice.

170 TedStriker  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 4:02:43pm

re: #167 EPR-radar

OT, but entertaining.

rawstory.com

Lou Dobbs at Fox apparently rakes Louie Gohmert (the platonic essence of stupidity) in relation to the recent bit of political theater in the House over the debt ceiling.

When a TPGOPer such as GOHMERT! has lost Lou Dobbs, you know something’s wrong in TPGOP paradise.

171 A Mom Anon  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 4:03:47pm

re: #168 Backwoods_Sleuth

People simply don’t learn do they? You’d think after all the shit everyone gave Atlanta 2 weeks ago it would have had an impact.

I fear for the nation some days.

172 CuriousLurker  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 4:04:37pm

re: #164 lawhawk

NWS just updated their storm predictions for NYC metro.

It’s worse.

[Embedded content]


Most of NYC is now in the 10-14 band, a significant increase from a few hours where 6-8 was most likely.

I’m still in the 10-14 band, though the 14+ isn’t that far away. Oy

*groan* I’m safely within the 10-14 band, but… ugh.

173 b_sharp  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 4:06:55pm

re: #172 CuriousLurker

*groan* I’m safely within the 10-14 band, but… ugh.

We’ve had bugger all for snow this year. I have about 18” of snow in the back yard right now. By this time last year I had 3 times that.

174 EPR-radar  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 4:07:05pm

re: #170 TedStriker

When a TPGOPer such as GOHMERT! has lost Lou Dobbs, you know something’s wrong in TPGOP paradise.

It is strange. One hypothesis I’ve seen is that this is a part of a fake GOP civil war between nuts and ‘moderates’ that is scripted to be won by the ‘moderates’ in time for 2014 and 2016 elections.

It is an entertaining notion, but I’m skeptical. The nuts are sincere about wanting to take over, and the ‘moderates’ will have no choice but to fight back for real in a situation where the outcome isn’t certain.

175 Killgore Trout  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 4:07:27pm

re: #169 goddamnedfrank

It’s traditional to exchange prisoners at the cessation of hostilities. Once we leave Afghanistan it is conceivably far more dangerous in the long term for us to violate that principal by stubbornly refusing to negotiate.

I think the people against a swap want to view this conflict as if it’s somehow unique, when it really isn’t. The lopsided numbers of their prisoners to ours doesn’t really change a lot except to reinforce the disparate military power, and how far we have stooped in engaging such an enemy in a ground war. Even still the physical environment, culture and tenacity of our enemy combines with our own public opinion to make unilateral victory impossible. So other than the fact that they only have one prisoner I’m not sure I can find any meaningful difference between this potential swap and our exit from Viet-Nam or the Korean armistice.

If it was a pow swap then I’d be inclined to agreed. There is no cessation of hostilities with al qaeda. This is more of a ransom payment.

176 CuriousLurker  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 4:07:49pm

re: #166 klys

Hey, klys! FWIW, I’m totally loving Lightroom so far. It’s faster and much less clunkier than Bridge, and Photoshop is always there if I need it.

177 CuriousLurker  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 4:08:15pm

re: #173 b_sharp

We’ve had bugger all for snow this year. I have about 18” of snow in the back yard right now. By this time last year I had 3 times that.

You sound disappointed. O_o

178 Decatur Deb  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 4:08:58pm

re: #124 Killgore Trout

I would like to see a real scientific study of political campaign finances. Do they really need that much money? Do all the ad buys really change public opinion any? Do yard signs and flyers really do anything. I strongly suspect the vast majority of campaign spending is wasted money.

“Flo, from Progressive Insurance, for KT on line 3.”

179 klys  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 4:09:01pm

re: #176 CuriousLurker

Hey, klys! FWIW, I’m totally loving Lightroom so far. It’s faster and much less clunkier than Bridge, and Photoshop is always there if I need it.

There are reasons I adore it for photo processing. The difference it can make is amazing.

I’m still learning things every time I open it up, but the basics aren’t too hard, either.

180 klys  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 4:13:01pm

Fishing in WoW definitely improves a lecture on assembly.

181 b_sharp  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 4:14:48pm

re: #177 CuriousLurker

You sound disappointed. O_o

Last year I got to use my new snowblower a dozen times. This year only twice.
I actually like driving in the snow, as long as people get out of my way. I hate getting stuck though, which is why I always buy 4x4s.

182 darthstar  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 4:14:48pm

ROFLMAO!

183 goddamnedfrank  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 4:15:06pm

re: #175 Killgore Trout

If it was a pow swap then I’d be inclined to agreed. There is no cessation of hostilities with al qaeda. This is more of a ransom payment.

The story says we’re negotiating with the Taliban, not al-quaeda. Your lazy conflation is exactly the kind of disingenuous presentation that got us locked into a decade long unwinnable quagmire to begin with. You don’t have to like either of them to understand that they’re not synonymous, that they have their own self interests that overlap less and less as time goes on. They’re only allied inasmuch as our policies make allying advantageous, or necessary.

184 Decatur Deb  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 4:17:58pm

See Deb.
See Deb shill.
Deb is shilling for Obamacare.
Shill, Deb, shill!

(Spent the day lining up navigator referrals our team will sign up in the next 6 weeks.)

The numbers creep relentlessly to the good. ACA is only about 25% delayed by the roll-out nightmare:

nytimes.com

185 klys  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 4:18:09pm

re: #183 goddamnedfrank

The story says we’re negotiating with the Taliban, not al-quaeda. Your lazy conflation is exactly the kind of disingenuous presentation that got us locked into a decade long unwinnable quagmire to begin with. You dont’ have to like either of them to understand that they’re not synonymous, that they have their own self interests that overlap less and less as time goes on. They’re only allied inasmuch as our policies make allying advantageous, or necessary.

Man, what’s this logic doing here?

186 darthstar  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 4:18:30pm

re: #168 Backwoods_Sleuth

Hi honey…traffic’s really bad right now so I lit the car on fire and I’m walking back to the office.

187 EPR-radar  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 4:22:50pm

OT, but the best summary of birtherism I’ve seen:

Obama had just reached the pinnacle of his career, becoming the president, and years after his election a bunch of people - other elected officials no less - are running around asking him for his papers like he’s a damn runaway slave.

188 Decatur Deb  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 4:25:37pm

re: #187 EPR-radar

OT, but the best summary of birtherism I’ve seen:
Obama had just reached the pinnacle of his career, becoming the president, and years after his election a bunch of people - other elected officials no less - are running around asking him for his papers like he’s a damn runaway slave.

Orly and The Paddyrollers would be a good name for a dentist shop quartet.

189 Romantic Heretic  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 4:25:49pm

re: #50 Dr Lizardo

Yeah…….Idaho is definitely wingnut central. Lots of white supremacists/white nationalists in that neck of the woods.

Oh good. Now I know where to set my next vampire story.

I’m going to throw my Alsatian vampire and his vampire lady love in amongst some wingnuts.

I almost feel sorry for the wingnuts. Almost.

190 EPR-radar  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 4:27:50pm

re: #189 Romantic Heretic

Oh good. Now I know where to set my next vampire story.

I’m going to throw my Alsatian vampire and his vampire lady love in amongst some wingnuts.

I almost feel sorry for the wingnuts. Almost.

For an Idaho setting, I’d enjoy the Hellsing model of vampire mayhem, but then I’m not really a very nice person…

191 Killgore Trout  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 4:28:02pm

re: #183 goddamnedfrank

The story says we’re negotiating with the Taliban, not al-quaeda. Your lazy conflation is exactly the kind of disingenuous presentation that got us locked into a decade long unwinnable quagmire to begin with. You dont’ have to like either of them to understand that they’re not synonymous, that they have their own self interests that overlap less and less as time goes on. They’re only allied inasmuch as our policies make allying advantageous, or necessary.

The American is being held by Haqqani network which is affiliated with both the Taliban and Al Qaeda. The Haqqani network is a terrorist organization in every sense of the word.

192 darthstar  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 4:29:57pm
193 dog philosopher  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 4:30:36pm

McClatchy-Marist Poll. Feb. 4-9, 2014. N=approx. 485 registered voters nationwide. Margin of error ± 4.5.

“If the 2016 presidential election were held today and Hillary Clinton were the Democratic nominee, exactly how fucked would the Republican Party be?”

194 freetoken  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 4:30:44pm

re: #191 Killgore Trout

For years we’ve been told this is a “war”.

Well, in wars, do not sides on occasion do prisoner trades?

195 blueraven  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 4:31:39pm

re: #183 goddamnedfrank

The story says we’re negotiating with the Taliban, not al-quaeda. Your lazy conflation is exactly the kind of disingenuous presentation that got us locked into a decade long unwinnable quagmire to begin with. You don’t have to like either of them to understand that they’re not synonymous, that they have their own self interests that overlap less and less as time goes on. They’re only allied inasmuch as our policies make allying advantageous, or necessary.

In addition to that excellent point…the whole article is highly specualtive

But according to interviews with current U.S., Afghan, and Pakistani senior officials, the potential new U.S.-Taliban prisoner swap talks, which have not yet begun, are linked to a broader U.S. government effort to lay the groundwork for a potential reconciliation between the Afghan government led by Hamid Karzai and the Taliban, who he has been fighting since the beginning of the decade-long U.S. occupation.

Good Luck with that.

196 Decatur Deb  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 4:31:52pm

re: #193 dog philosopher

McClatchy-Marist Poll. Feb. 4-9, 2014. N=approx. 485 registered voters nationwide. Margin of error ± 4.5.

“If the 2016 presidential election were held today and Hillary Clinton were the Democratic nominee, exactly how fucked would the Republican Party be?”

Love to see it.

197 freetoken  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 4:32:03pm

re: #193 dog philosopher

Looks like Paul Ryan is surging.

198 Killgore Trout  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 4:32:09pm

re: #185 klys

Man, what’s this logic doing here?

more information here….

Its the Haqqani Network’s use of the Saudi Arabian financiers and other Arab investors in his mission that clearly highlights the groups understand of Global Jihad. A major difference between the Haqqani Network and Al-Qaeda is the spheres of influence they both seek to control.[14][15] Al-Qaeda’s is global, Haqqani’s is regional. The success of the Haqqani Network and the mentorship it provides to Al-Qaeda and Associated Movements.


According to US military commanders, it is “the most resilient enemy network” and one of the biggest threats to the U.S.-led NATO forces and the Afghan government in the current war in Afghanistan.[19][24] It is also the most lethal network in Afghanistan.[25] Presently, the United States is offering a reward for information leading to the capture of their leader, Sirajuddin Haqqani, in the amount of $5,000,000.00.[26]

Obama administration[edit]

In September 2012, the Obama administration labeled the network as a foreign terrorist organization.[27] After this announcement, Taliban issued a statement arguing that there is “no separate entity or network in Afghanistan by the name of Haqqani” and that Jalaluddin Haqqani is a member of the Quetta Shura, Taliban’s top leadership council.[28]

….

199 Killgore Trout  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 4:34:29pm

re: #194 freetoken

For years we’ve been told this is a “war”.

Well, in wars, do not sides on occasion do prisoner trades?

Yes, they do. There are some differences in this case since we are dealing with terrorist groups and not state governments.

200 Decatur Deb  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 4:34:53pm

re: #197 freetoken

Looks like Paul Ryan is surging.

If Mitt takes the lead, he’ll never give it up.

201 Decatur Deb  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 4:35:41pm

re: #199 Killgore Trout

Yes, they do. There are some differences in this case since we are dealing with terrorist groups and not state governments.

You go to war with the enemy you’ve got, not the enemy you would prefer.

202 Amory Blaine  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 4:35:46pm

re: #188 Decatur Deb

Orly and The Paddyrollers would be a good name for a dentist shop quartet.

Pulling teeth sounds more fun.

203 RealityBasedSteve  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 4:37:16pm

re: #179 klys

There are reasons I adore it for photo processing. The difference it can make is amazing.

I’m still learning things every time I open it up, but the basics aren’t too hard, either.

I’m a big Lightroom fan too. I love doing non-destructive edits, and for 90% of my people and places type photographs it provides all the functionality I need. If I need more, then I fire up Adobe Elements. (photoshop lite)

RBS

204 EPR-radar  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 4:37:25pm

re: #202 Amory Blaine

Pulling teeth sounds more fun.

If Orly practices dentistry as ineptly as she practices law, you really wouldn’t want her to pull your teeth. She probably thinks a hammer and chisel are the right tools for the job.

205 Romantic Heretic  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 4:37:46pm

re: #137 Varek Raith

South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley is supporting a bill that would remove the permit and training requirements for carrying a concealed weapon.

I read that earlier. Good…fucking…Christ. Does this stupid woman (almost used the c-word) have any idea how dangerous idea this is?

206 CuriousLurker  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 4:38:14pm

In his #183 goddamnedfrank said:

The story says we’re negotiating with the Taliban, not al-quaeda. Your lazy conflation is exactly the kind of disingenuous presentation that got us locked into a decade long unwinnable quagmire to begin with. You don’t have to like either of them to understand that they’re not synonymous, that they have their own self interests that overlap less and less as time goes on. They’re only allied inasmuch as our policies make allying advantageous, or necessary.

From the Wiki page:

Al-Qaeda affiliation

The Haqqani Network’s relationship with Al-Qaeda dates back to the founding of the AQ. The significant difference between the two organizations is that Al-Qaeda’s goals are global and use global means; whereas Haqqani is solely interested in Afghanistan and the Pashtun Tribal regions. To Jalaluddin Haqqani he is more interested in the influence of Islamic Law over Afghanistan than the global Jihad. Nonetheless the Haqqani Network has always been fully aware of Al-Qaeda’s intentions and goals.

Seems to me like gdf was right on the money. But, hey, why should I believe my lying eyes?

207 Decatur Deb  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 4:38:19pm

re: #204 EPR-radar

If Orly practices dentistry as ineptly as she practices law, you really wouldn’t want her to pull your teeth. She probably thinks a hammer and chisel are the right tools for the job.

After 5 minutes listening in the chair, you’ll want the hammer.

208 Targetpractice  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 4:38:39pm

re: #205 Romantic Heretic

I read that earlier. Good��ucking��hrist. Does this stupid woman *almost used the c-word) have any idea how dangerous and idea this is?

She’s never struck me as particularly bright.

209 Pie-onist Overlord  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 4:39:02pm

re: #204 EPR-radar

If Orly practices dentistry as ineptly as she practices law, you really wouldn’t want her to pull your teeth. She probably thinks a hammer and chisel are the right tools for the job.

Considering she’s from the former USSR, a hammer & sickle would be appropriate dental tools.

In Soviet Russia, tooth pulls you!

210 klys  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 4:39:27pm

So if it’s a concept we’re at war with and not a government, does that mean indefinite incarceration for the unlawful combatants, then?

I see no unintended consequences to decisions like that at all. Nope.

//

211 goddamnedfrank  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 4:39:30pm

I’m sure at the end of our involvement in Viet Nam there were people who thought we shouldn’t / couldn’t possibly negotiate with a nebulous, worldwide, communist conspiracy (to sap and impurify our precious bodily fluids.) Instead we had the North Vietnamese, who’d committed plenty of atrocities of their own. You’re never going to have an ideal negotiating partner for peace, if you did you probably wouldn’t be fighting each other in the first place.

re: #206 CuriousLurker

In his #183 goddamnedfrank said:

From the Wiki page:

Seems to me like gdf was right on the money. But, hey, why should I believe my lying eyes?

Reading comprehension is for terrorist sympathizers.

212 Killgore Trout  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 4:41:35pm

re: #206 CuriousLurker

You seem to have left out this part…

“Al-Qa’ida and the Haqqani network, in other words, evolved together, and they have remained intertwined throughout their history. They remain so to this day.[13]

213 EPR-radar  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 4:45:12pm

re: #210 klys

So if it’s a concept we’re at war with and not a government, does that mean indefinite incarceration for the unlawful combatants, then?

I see no unintended consequences to decisions like that at all. Nope.

//

The consequences were mostly intentional, IMO. A free-floating perpetual ‘war on terror’ would be very profitable for certain players in the economy.

214 CuriousLurker  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 4:46:44pm

re: #212 Killgore Trout

You seem to have left out this part…

Yep, I left it out because it has no bearing on the fact that their goals are different. They can live next door to each other, train together, go to the mosque together on Fridays, whatever—it doesn’t mean their goals are the same, which is exactly the point gdf was making.

215 Romantic Heretic  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 4:47:53pm

re: #190 EPR-radar

For an Idaho setting, I’d enjoy the Hellsing model of vampire mayhem, but then I’m not really a very nice person…

My vampires, when pissed off, aren’t quite that bad. Still, you don’t want to be on the receiving end of them though. They can hit you with a car.

Now thinking of a scene with a coroner going, “The state of the body indicates someone hit the victim with a car, as in picked it up and used the car as a club. I quit. I’ve obviously been in this business too long.”

216 Romantic Heretic  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 4:54:20pm

re: #199 Killgore Trout

Yes, they do. There are some differences in this case since we are dealing with terrorist groups and not state governments.

Then why are we at war with them? Wars are between nations. This is a criminal organization.

Also, our idea of warfare is due to the common misinterpretation of Clausewitz, that war cannot and should not be restrained. That a war only ends when the other side is completely destroyed.

It’s one of the main reasons, in my opinion, that wars since Clausewitz have been so brutal.

217 goddamnedfrank  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 4:55:20pm

re: #212 Killgore Trout

You seem to have left out this part…

Okay, but why would anybody pass up an opportunity to drive a wedge between the two? Neither group grew up in a vacuum, nobody’s pretending they did. The Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, our clandestine support of the opposition and total abandonment in the aftermath created the seeds and environment for both groups to flourish, and here we can potentially mitigate some of the damage from that historical blunder. Despite your rather pedantic insistence to the contrary the two groups very much do have different goals, only an idiot would stubbornly refuse a chance to exploit those differences while simultaneously regaining a captured soldier.

218 gwangung  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 4:55:36pm

re: #212 Killgore Trout

You seem to have left out this part…

This seems to be binary thinking, and not particularly useful in a 21st Century world.

219 Killgore Trout  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 5:02:30pm

re: #214 CuriousLurker

Yep, I left it out because it has no bearing on the fact that their >goals are different. They can live next door to each other, train together, go to the mosque together on Fridays, whatever—it doesn’t mean their goals are the same, which is exactly the point gdf was making.

Yes, I understand the distinction between the two groups and I also understand the case in favor of the swap. However, you should be able to understand that not everybody is going to agree with this. The case against making payments or prisoner releases with terrorist groups (Yes, Obama agrees they are a terrorist group) is that encourages hostage taking with rewards. I think most nations have official policies against paying ransoms and releasing prisoners in exchange for hostages but it does happen. Not everybody is going to agree about this.

220 Killgore Trout  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 5:03:28pm

re: #218 gwangung

This seems to be binary thinking, and not particularly useful in a 21st Century world.

Maybe you could talk to Obama about this and have him take them off the list of terror groups.

221 CuriousLurker  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 5:24:25pm

re: #219 Killgore Trout

Yes, I understand the distinction between the two groups and I also understand the case in favor of the swap. However, you should be able to understand that not everybody is going to agree with this. The case against making payments or prisoner releases with terrorist groups (Yes, Obama agrees they are a terrorist group) is that encourages hostage taking with rewards. I think most nations have official policies against paying ransoms and releasing prisoners in exchange for hostages but it does happen. Not everybody is going to agree about this.

Yes, I understand not everyone is going to agree—some will see it as a prisoner swap while others will see it as paying ransom. Thankfully, neither you nor I have to make those kinds of decisions.

I think most everyone agrees Hamas is a terrorist group, yet Israel does prisoner swaps with them, which is “paying ransom” according to the way you view things, is it not?

The case of Gilad Shalit’s abduction and eventual release in a “prisoner swap” comes immediately to mind. A deal was made because both sides saw some benefit in it. You might not like it, but you guys here at LGF were the first ones to hammer the whole realpolitik thing home for me so… *shrug* I guess I’m a quick study.

222 goddamnedfrank  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 5:27:08pm

re: #219 Killgore Trout

However, you should be able to understand that not everybody is going to agree with this.

Holy shit, really?

Well that changes things, thanks for mansplaining.

223 CuriousLurker  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 5:28:07pm

re: #220 Killgore Trout

Maybe you could talk to Obama about this and have him take them off the list of terror groups.

LOLWUT?

re: #211 goddamnedfrank

Reading comprehension is for terrorist sympathizers.

Indeed. Time to go back upstairs. *SMH*

224 Killgore Trout  Wed, Feb 12, 2014 5:43:52pm

re: #221 CuriousLurker

I think most everyone agrees Hamas is a terrorist group, yet Israel does prisoner swaps with them, which is “paying ransom” according to the way you view things, is it not?

I don’t think that’s a good idea either.

225 pyite  Thu, Feb 13, 2014 11:52:46am

I am not a fan of the far right, but I have to give Rand Paul some props for doing more than just demagoguing — he is trying to take some legitimate action to raise awareness about this issue in a reasonable way. First with a proper filibuster (unlike Cruz) and then with the proper way to solve disagreements between branches of government — the courts.

As just one example, compare this to another Senate candidate from the same election cycle who talked about “second amentment” solutions — just asinine.


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