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 Will Bush Be the Last Hawk Standing?Posted on Jul 20, 2007One hopes the leader of the free world hasn’t really, truly lost touch with objective reality. But one does have to wonder. Last week, George W. Bush invited nine conservative pundits to the White House for what amounted to a pep talk, with the president providing all the pep. Somehow I was left off the list—must have been an oversight. Some of the columnists who attended have been writing about the meeting or describing it to colleagues, and their accounts are downright scary. National Review’s Kate O’Beirne, who joined the presidential chat in the Roosevelt Room, told me that the most striking thing was the president’s incongruously sunny demeanor. Bush’s approval ratings are well below freezing, the nation is sooooo finished with his foolish and tragic war, many of his remaining allies in Congress have given notice that come September they plan to leave the Decider alone in his private Alamo—and the president remains optimistic and upbeat. Bush was “not at all weary or anguished” and in fact “very energized,” wrote Michael Barone of U.S. News and World Report. He was “as confident and upbeat as ever,” observed Rich Lowry of National Review. “Far from being beleaguered, Bush was assertive and good-humored,” according to David Brooks of The New York Times. Excuse me? I guess now he must be in an even better mood, since the feckless Iraqi government announced its decision to take the whole month of August off while U.S. troops continue fighting and dying in Baghdad’s 130-degree summer heat. It’s almost as if Bush were trying to apply the principles of cognitive therapy, the system developed by psychiatrist Aaron T. Beck in the 1960s. Beck found that getting patients to banish negative thoughts and develop patterns of positive thinking was helpful in pulling them out of depression. However, Beck was trying to get the patients to see themselves and the world realistically, whereas Bush has left realism far behind. “He says the most useful argument to make in support of his policy is to show what failure would mean,” Barone wrote of the president and Iraq. “It would mean an ascendant radicalism, among both Shia and Sunni Muslims, and it would embolden sponsors of terrorism such as Iran. Al-Qaeda would be emboldened and would be able to recruit forces.” Excuse me again? This is what Bush believes would happen? Hasn’t he noticed that these catastrophes have already befallen us? And that they are the direct consequence of his decision to invade and occupy Iraq? At a news conference last week, someone tried to point this out. Bush replied with such a bizarre version of history that I hope he was being cynical and doesn’t really believe what he said: “Actually, I was hoping to solve the Iraqi issue diplomatically. That’s why I went to the United Nations and worked with the United Nations Security Council, which unanimously passed a resolution that said disclose, disarm or face serious consequences. That was the message, the clear message to Saddam Hussein. He chose the course. ... It was his decision to make.” Let’s see, we have learned that Iraq had no weapons of mass destruction. That means Bush is claiming that Saddam Hussein “chose” the invasion—and, ultimately, his own death—by not showing us what he didn’t have. “Bush gives the impression that he is more steadfast on the war than many in his own administration and that, if need be, he’ll be the last hawk standing,” wrote Lowry. The president says the results of his recent troop escalation will be evaluated by Gen. David Petraeus, wrote Barone, and not by “the polls.” Translation: Everybody’s out of step but me. One of the more unnerving reports out of the president’s seminar with the pundits came from Brooks, who quoted Bush as saying: “It’s more of a theological perspective. I do believe there is an Almighty, and I believe a gift of that Almighty to all is freedom. And I will tell you that is a principle that no one can convince me that doesn’t exist.” It’s bad enough that Osama bin Laden is still out there plotting bloody new acts of terrorism, convinced that God wants him to slay the infidels. Now we know that the president of the United States believes God has chosen him to bring freedom to the world, that he refuses to acknowledge setbacks in his crusade and that he flat-out doesn’t care what “the polls”—meaning the American people—might think. I’m having trouble seeing the bright side. I think I need cognitive therapy. Eugene Robinson’s e-mail address is eugenerobinson(at symbol)washpost.com.
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Jump to Comments
By nomorebombs, July 26, 2007 at 12:37 am #
(Unregistered commenter)
Probably cocaine…
Report thisBy cyrena, July 26, 2007 at 12:14 am #
#89419 by purplewolf on 7/25 at 10:30 am
Purplewolf, you wrote:
....“It would make the perfect medical instrument. We could still use the hoses to tie him up too.”...
You’re right about the chainsaw of course, though I admit they give me the creeps. Still, I’m game, as long as we can still use the hoses.
.
Cowboys-Guns-Chainsaws-Texas….
I’m telling you, I’m just so glad to have escaped.
Report thisBy Louise, July 25, 2007 at 11:22 pm #
Will Bush Be the Last Hawk Standing?
No.
But if we’re lucky, he’ll be the last CHICKEN running around naked in the oval office!
[In case you hadn’t noticed, this guy is no HAWK ... cluck, cluck ...]
Report thisBy purplewolf, July 25, 2007 at 2:30 pm #
(Unregistered commenter)
#88444: Anambrose
War hawk? Chicken hawk is the correct discriptive. I think Chicken Shit is better since he skipped out of really serving this country in the military.
Did they find his brain when he under went his medical exam July 22 ?
#88453 Cyrena
I laughed so hard about your offer to do Bushit’s medical procedure,however, might I suggest perhaps a more effective and appropiate piece of equipment? A chainsaw. Remember how much the cowboy loves that chainsaw? He is so fond of it, always flaunting it off as a trademark of his authority? So much so that he uses it as a prop everytime he is on vacation at his ranch in Crawford, Texas. He is always clearing brush(bush?) on his ranch that it should be totally barren of any type of vegatation by now. In fact he was using his tool in Texas when he could have been doing so in New Orleans after Katrina swept thru.It would make the perfect medical instrument. We could still use the hoses to tie him up too.
One time he didn’t have a good grip on his tool and it kicked back thus causing a total brainectomy(explains alot) when hitting him in the head, but being the tough cowboy that he thinks he is,this didn’t stop the Bush from going on to become the biggest embarassment to America since the blanket fever. Another goverment atrocity which it should be proud of.Not.
Report thisBy purplewolf, July 25, 2007 at 2:03 pm #
(Unregistered commenter)
So G.W.Bushit believes in the Almighty, and that the gift from the Almighty is freedom to all. Then how come he has taken away over 60% of the Bill of Rights from the American people? Investigated what your library selections are, what books you buy,(Oh and by the way, goverment spies, just because you check out a book or buy one does not mean you have read it, or ever will read it, FYI ),trying to take away your right to free speech,i.e protesting Iraq war. You are under constant surveillence from the things you buy at the stores, to where you go, your emails are read, your phones are bugged. Is this the FREEDOM G.W. claims the Almighty wants for all people.Always being under their thumb? Sounds as if this person is a control freak, like the ones as seen on TV,like Maury, Oprah,etc. G.W. has used the Constitution as if it were toilet paper.
Report thisAs for the fear factor which this administration has used every time things are not going their way and they want to try to bring us back into the fold of sheeple that so many are, you don’t scare me with this fear crap.I live in the most violent city in America today, Flint, Michigan,and just last year we were only number 3.If I need to leave the house and not get shot or killed it is a good day. I wrote in the local paper in 2001 that if G.W. really wanted to fight terrorism all over the world he needs to start in the streets and cities of this country first.Well how about it G.W.?
By Inherit The Wind, July 24, 2007 at 10:50 pm #
(Unregistered commenter)
Wouldnt it be funny if we found out hes been drinking since he got elected in 2000?
——
No. But it wouldn’t be a surprise either.
Now I KNOW the straits are dire—every post Cyrena made up through number 89235 I agree with completely.
Bush is dangerously delusional and he and his administration must be removed from office. Congress needs to grow a lot of backbones and a lot of ethics and finally pull the plug on these bastards. If 71% of Americans disapprove of Bush’s rule, and we KNOW he’s a criminal, how come we aren’t impeaching him????
About the only true thing George W. Bush said was he thought it would be easier if he was a dictator. I’m sure he does think that.
But wise men and women know that dictators rarely get as much done as democracy-respecting leaders. If FDR wanted to get something done, he couldn’t just give an order—he had to CONVINCE people. Stalin just gave orders. Who was more effective? FDR.
A few months ago I thought Bush ranked with the other two worst Presidents, Buchanan and Tyler. Now I have come to the conclusion that he is far worse—messing up things that didn’t have to be messed up, hurting Americans by the millions and hurting people abroad by the millions.
Some ask, How did we elect him, twice. I don’t believe we did. I believe that RFK Jr. documented how he stole both elections brilliantly.
We will be many years recovering from Bush, and will only do so if we have the will to do so.
Report thisBy johnofportland, July 24, 2007 at 10:35 pm #
HIGHEST PRIORITY - TIME DATED STUFF.
The Executive Order described in the urls attached was posted on July 17 - we have to Aug 17 to get congress to nullify it, as I read this.
http://www.smirkingchimp.com/thread/8916
Why can’t the Congress see the same flaws as we?
“Thirty days after publication, executive orders become as binding upon all affected parties as a law passed by Congress. Congress can overturn an executive order in the same way it can repeal a law, but by far the most common Congressional action is to approve retroactively the actions taken under executive orders. Federal courts also can overturn executive orders but rarely do.”
Why can’t the Congress see the same outrageousness of the Decider’s Executive Orders as we? Truth is, they do! Writeto your representatives and DEMAND that they take action
http://www.thehollywoodliberal.com/2007/07/23/time- for-all-of-us-to-take-action/
“2. Last Week Bush came out with an Executive Order to ban all Iraq War Protests. According to this order he can have your assets and property seized for protesting the Iraq War. This is outrageous. An executive order only becomes law if Congress doesn’t overturn it within thirty days after it is published in the Federal Register. Tell your congress person that you want them to step up and put a stop to this. As above you can reach your representative at 202-224-3121. After you get off the phone call both of your Senators. In California you can reach Senator Dianne Feinstein at 202-224-3841. You can reach Senator Barbara Boxer at 202-224-3553. Outside of California call The U.S. Capitol Switchboard at (202) 224-3121 and ask for your Senators office.”
Doesn’t seem like we have much time to fend this off, but we’d best move it, eh? Or, we’ll all be sitting in a Halliburton internment camp wondering “where the yellow went.”
Report thisKeep on keepin’ on, keep up the good fight. All the best, j
By farmertx, July 24, 2007 at 10:03 pm #
Cyrena
Report thisAs usual, you have taken my over simplification of an issue and made sense of it. Thanks.
Although I was not for sending the troops into Iraq, my government, such as it is, did so and I have to bear a communal responsibility for that action. Dammit.
But, as you stated, getting the troops out of Iraq is the key.
Then, restoring the rule of our Constitution is next.
Then, and only then, can we start to deal with the myriad problems that the Shrub so cluelessly left in his passing through.
By cyrena, July 24, 2007 at 9:50 pm #
#89207 by farmertx on 7/24 at 3:55 pm
“And yes, the people of Iraq got screwed when Shrub pointed his fickle finger of fate their way. But I am more concerned about our troops than the Iraqi people.”...
Herein lies a major dialectical concept which means that we cant really think in terms of either/or, in respect to who we have the most concern for, because one creates the other. More importantly, this war was no fickle finger of fate for the Iraqis, as determined by the Shrub. This fate of theirs (as well as the fate of our troops) was determined long ago, by far more treacherous minds than the Shrubs. This was a long ago plan, at least a decade in the making.
To be more concerned about our troops than the Iraqi people is probably a perfectly human reaction, but at the same time, we cannot put aside that WE ALL sent them into harms way, and that it is their very presence on the sovereign soil of another nation, that has put them in danger, AND has resulted in the deaths of the Iraqi population, (not soldiers here, but civilians) at the ratio of about 1/1000 (1 of us, for 1000 of them) so that for every troop weve lost, there are 1000 dead Iraqis, including women and children. So, while its normal for us to set priorities on who we might most be concerned about, theres really no way to separate them. Our troops are being killed and maimed because they are there.
The Iraqis have had there society and infrastructure destroyed for the same reason because we are there.
AND .our troops would NOT be there, if we still had a mandatory draft in place, making ALL Americans equally responsible for this horrific disaster, with equal prices to pay. Matter of fact, if there were a draft to go along with this war-mongering, there would be NO WAR- The masses of Americans would NOT accept sending THEIR OWN children/spouses/siblings into this horror.
“But, even if I were concerned about them, what could be done? Pay them settlements to attempt to make them whole again? Only if it comes out of Shrubs pocket. Send the Peace Corp to teach them how to sing Kumbaya?”
For now, this is the same as the above. The Iraqis dont need to learn how to sing Kumbaya, and theres little that the Peace Corps could do either. The only real thing that we can do, is to leave them the hell alone. IE .they want us OUT of their house. Theyve been wanting that since we got there, though they were admittedly patient at first, waiting to see if the Americans were going to stick to their original lies, and .LEAVE.
Instead, theyve seen nothing but all of the signs of permanent occupancy, by the US. (which might be enough to rile them up more than a little).
And now, it just continues. Our surge of troops has been mostly dispatched to continue the take-over. Theyve been building large cement, razor-wire topped enclosures around many of their communities, leaving them confined, isolated, and easy targets for the increased raids and air attacks.
In short, the U.S. hasnt even made any pretense of following the rules of law, such as the rules that are set-down, even for circumstances of occupation. The laws require the occupying force to provide security and basic human services to the civilian population. And yet, the Congress is just now getting around to considering the restoration of electricity, (to the Iraqi population) as a good idea or a less ambitious goal toward the overall goal of gaining political security. Well, nearly 5 years later, Im just so glad they figured that out.
But, its too late. The Iraqis have in fact been working toward saving their nation, and the one thing we can do for them, to help that process along, is to LEAVE. So, by protecting our troops, and bringing them HOME, we will also be doing the best thing that we can do for the Iraqi population as well. One depends on the other.
Report thisBy farmertx, July 24, 2007 at 7:55 pm #
Doug Chalmers
Report thisNo, Shrub’s acceptance of the blame made no difference nor was it intended to. I was commenting on the fact that he has steadfastedly avoided such things prior to that.
And yes, the people of Iraq got screwed when Shrub pointed his fickle finger of fate their way.
But I am more concerned about our troops than the Iraqi people.
But, even if I were concerned about them, what could be done? Pay them settlements to attempt to make them whole again? Only if it comes out of Shrubs’ pocket. Send the Peace Corp to teach them how to sing Kumbaya?
To me, the main thing is getting this clown out of office before he or the Shootist do any more harm, and then focus on returning this country to a place that we can all be proud of.
By Zero, July 24, 2007 at 5:32 pm #
(Unregistered commenter)
Let’s all face the truth about what’s going on since 2001: This administration promotes terrorism which therfore makes coporations billions (oil, malitary suppliers, etc.). At the same time, the Republican party has adapted itself to “quietly” support it’s own (this is why prosocuters were fired - see as an example the details Black’s termination in Guam, and how the Abramoff money was being funneled through a lawyer’s office in Southern California - examine the public donation records in Luguna Beach, CA, just prior to the re-elction). 99% of our country (and the political leaders outside of this coruption circle) Have no clue as to what has been happening here. Stop reading the press, do some serious research, you will be amazed as to what’s really going on…
Report thisBy Douglas Chalmers, July 24, 2007 at 4:43 pm #
#89127 by OCPatriot on 7/24 at 9:37 am: “...Bin Laden had something to do with Iraq….”
Oh, did he really…...amazing???
#89078 by farmertx on 7/24 at 6:34 am: “...He was actually amazed that the world didn’t come to an end when they convinced him to accept responsibility for the lack of preparedness after Katrina….”
But did it make any difference to the people in New Orleans???
“...impeachment will be a challenge ....all the congress critter’s who blindly followed him….. would have to admit that they placed politics above the lives of our soldiers….”
Not that it’ll make any difference to the people in Iraq anyway, but there could be a lot of dead critters….... anyway, aren’t Turkey and Iran going to divide the place up between them when the uS finally moves?
Report thisBy Douglas Chalmers, July 24, 2007 at 4:37 pm #
#89127 by OCPatriot on 7/24 at 9:37 am: “...Bin Laden had something to do with Iraq….”
Oh, did he really…...amazing???
Report thisBy impeachy keen, July 24, 2007 at 2:55 pm #
(Unregistered commenter)
Wouldnt it be funny if we found out hes been drinking since he got elected in 2000?
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
I don’t know if he’s been drinking constantly, but I do know one person who went to meet with him in person at the White House and smelled alcohol on him (this was years ago). The meeting took place in the AM.
I also know someone who supervised a party of the Bush twins and said they drink like fish.
All hearsay on a chatboard, and of course one degree removed since I could technically be making this up, but I wouldn’t be surprised if other people have similar stories.
Report thisBy OCPatriot, July 24, 2007 at 1:37 pm #
(Unregistered commenter)
Why can’t people just come out and say it? Bush is deluded. He’s crazy. He ignores reality. He lies, and whether he realizes it or not doesn’t matter. If more people and the MSM said it, people wouldn’t be believing that Bin Laden had something to do with Iraq.
Report thisBy farmertx, July 24, 2007 at 10:34 am #
Shrub has made a career out of finding someone else to be responsible for his mistakes.
Report thisHe was actually amazed that the world didn’t come to an end when they convinced him to accept responsibility for the lack of preparedness after Katrina.
But he ain’t about to press his luck by admitting that Iraq was a huge mistake.
And that is why impeachment will be a challenge; because all the congress critter’s who blindly followed him, even after reports to the contrary were common knowledge, would have to admit that they placed politics above the lives of our soldiers.
By Douglas Chalmers, July 24, 2007 at 9:28 am #
#89067 by Roy Eidelson on 7/24 at 4:45 am: “...Warmongers often appeal to five core concerns—about issues of vulnerability, injustice, distrust, superiority, and helplessness—in order to galvanize public support for their agenda…..”
No, there’s just ONE at our collective core, Roy - its called FEAR! If you want to think of another reason, try IGNORANCE!
#88933 by a on 7/23 at 4:32 pm: “...Why can’t George Bush just apologize? Admit he was all wrong about Iraq. Blame it on the neoconservative whackos…..”
Why should he apologise to people he already thinks are stupid (more stupid than him, that is…)???
Report thisBy Roy Eidelson, July 24, 2007 at 8:45 am #
Warmongers often appeal to five core concernsabout issues of vulnerability, injustice, distrust, superiority, and helplessnessin order to galvanize public support for their agenda. I examine how Bush/Cheney used these particular appeals to promote the misguided and destructive Iraq war in a 10-minute online video entitled Resisting the Drums of War available for viewing on YouTube HERE. Looking ahead, the continuing occupation of Iraq—or an attack on Iran—will likely be sold to us in much the same way.
Report thisBy August West, July 23, 2007 at 9:19 pm #
Actually, I was hoping to solve the Iraqi issue diplomatically. Thats why I went to the United Nations and worked with the United Nations Security Council, which unanimously passed a resolution that said disclose, disarm or face serious consequences. That was the message, the clear message to Saddam Hussein. He chose the course. ... It was his decision to make.
I guess he left out the part where he ordered the U.N. weapons inspectors out of Iraq just before the invasion. Despite what the inspectors were saying about there being no WMD’s and no evidence of WMD programs, Bush knew in his gut that they were there. And when they didn’t show up, he knew in his gut that he had still done the right thing. It’s much easier for him to Decide with his gut than to analyze facts. Besides, facts are often based on fuzzy science or fuzzy math. Intestines are much more reliable.
Report thisBy a, July 23, 2007 at 8:32 pm #
(Unregistered commenter)
Why can’t George Bush just apologize? Admit he was all wrong about Iraq. Blame it on the neoconservative
Report thiswhackos who took over his administration, but just
apologize. This messaianic vision of Bush as a latter
day Woodrow Wilson, transforming the Arab world into
his idea of ‘democracy’ will be no more successful
then Wilson was in re-making Europe in 1919.
By GW=MCHammered, July 23, 2007 at 1:04 pm #
(Unregistered commenter)
re: #88770 by cyrena on 7/22 at 10:25 pm
We’ve discovered much recently concerning brain chemistry in bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and addiction. I’m just a ‘people’ fortunate / misfortunate enough to be adopted young into a family that suffers much with all three. Yet I’ve been found psychologically fit to care for friends in full-blown psychosis for months at a time.
I understand the value in recognizing symptoms early to stem far bigger woes for the sufferer, friends and family, and if problems progress, the public. And looky republic, here we are! It’s obvious, cyrena, that you understand the chasm betwixt ‘personality quirks’ and ‘personality disorders’ and that they often are symptom of even greater disorder. Particularly when family history, medical history and police record add up.
But should the republic allow exploitation of such malady for a group’s political gain? A position with such world power, responsibility and thus accountability, should offer full disclosure beyond the ‘medical privacy’ issue/excuse. Even if such disclosure is only an honest list of current meds. Or should the republic wait for a full breakdown and possibly suffer unimaginable consequences? Frankly, I find this system and situation far too ‘enabling’ for comfort.
Report thisBy JEP, July 23, 2007 at 12:42 pm #
(Unregistered commenter)
“the most striking thing was the presidents incongruously sunny demeanor.”
Probably the same stuff Rush is taking…
And I don’t mean that figuratively.
Bush is getting a boost from something, and it isn’t from “reality.”
Report thisBy carlito paquito, July 23, 2007 at 10:50 am #
did someone just say the Emperors New Clothes?
Report thisBy cyrena, July 23, 2007 at 5:45 am #
George made this comment in what appears to be the same interview that Eugene Robinson wrote about a few days ago, which was a meeting with several conservative journalists, trying to get a bead on how hes feeling these days. This is only one of the scary things that he said. Kind of gives you the feeling that hes not quite connected eh?
“There is such a thing as the universality of freedom. I strongly believe that Muslims desire to be free just like Methodists desire to be free.”
So, there you have it. Its all about Muslims and Methodists, wanting to be free.
http://www.truthout.org/docs_2006/072207D.shtml
Report thisBy cyrena, July 23, 2007 at 2:25 am #
#88657 by GW=MCHammered on 7/22 at 8:24 am
Dear GW=MCHam..
Thanks for this list of the behavioral characteristics of addicts. People tend to think of addicts as being addicted to a substance, but it can be so many things. (substances included of course). Still, I think much of the general population might miss these as addict symptoms, when there is no evidence of a substance abuse, and dismiss them as personality quirks without the realization of just exactly how dangerous this can be for everyone the addicted, their loved ones, their co-workers, and yes..even their nation.
So, thanks for putting that reminder out there.
Meantime, the below message is from an activists list that I subscribe to the first of us to attempt the legal remedy (impeachment) for our common problem, (george bush). The local Interventionist Specialist probably cant help with him. Matter of fact, Im sure of it. There have been multiple attempts. So, impeachment is the only possible remedy at this point. Truly an emergency of the highest level. We need Congress to take a crash course in Intervention, or call in the outside experts.
please send to largest lists and ask others to do the same
feel free to modify or add to
Call Congress Today for Impeachment
We’ve reached the impeachment moment for Vice President Dick Cheney. We’ve pushed the cosponsor list for H. Res. 333 up to 14. Chairman John Conyers says that if we get 3 more he’ll begin the impeachment proceedings.
And many Congress Members must be recognizing that there is no other path available. Cheney and Bush have repeatedly refused to comply with subpoenas, ordered former staffers not to comply, and announced that the Justice Department will not enforce contempt citations from Congress. When a special prosecutor attempted to hold this administration accountable, Cheney’s chief of staff obstructed justice, and Cheney persuaded Bush to commute his sentence. There is no course left for Congress but Impeachment.
On Monday, July 23rd, the fifth anniversary of the meeting that produced the Downing Street Minutes, Cindy Sheehan, Ray McGovern, Rev. Lennox Yearwood, Ann Wright, Debra Sweet, Dave Lindorff, David Swanson, Jodie Evans, Medea Benjamin, Kevin Zeese, and Tina Richards will lead a march to Chairman Conyers office and not leave until he agrees to begin impeachment proceedings.
If you cannot be there, you can take two minutes on Monday and do two things: phone Chairman Conyers at 202-225-5126 and ask him to start the impeachment of Dick Cheney; and phone your own Congress Member at 202-224-3121 and ask them to immediately call Conyers’ office to express their support for impeachment. Your Congress Member might be one of the three needed, not just to keep impeachment activists out of jail but to keep this nation from devolving into dictatorship.
Also email your Representatives:
http://www.democrats.com/peoplesemailnetwork/73
This is from David Swanson’s activist list, if you want to check it out. I don’t have a link handy.
Report thisBy GW=MCHammered, July 23, 2007 at 12:23 am #
(Unregistered commenter)
Executive Order: Blocking Property of Certain Persons Who Threaten Stabilization Efforts in Iraq
http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2007/07/200 70717-3.html
Report thisBy Patrick S Pattillo, July 22, 2007 at 9:44 pm #
(Unregistered commenter)
I agree Dale. Someone should let Bush know that God either has mixed feelings or he is ineffective because Iraq was not the slam-dunk that it was predicted to be.
Bush is always giddily optimistic with a controlled audience despite the fact that it in no way representative of public opinion, something with which Bush evidently does not bother himself.
As for anyone with remaining concern about damage that can still be inflicted I’d cite the concern of many longtime conservatives such as John Dean and most recently Paul Craig Roberts, Assistant Secreatry of the Treasury under Reagan and considered by many to be the father of Reagonomics:
http://onlinejournal.com/artman/publish/article_2214.shtml
Too scary to be true? Perhaps. But I’d have considered flirtation with police state in the same way several years back.
These guys play for keeps.
Recall the hysterical brinksmanship of Cheney:
Even if theres just a 1 percent chance of the unimaginable coming due, act as if it is a certainty. Its not about our analysis, Its about our response.
Ive adopted my own adaptation of this one percent doctrine”:
Even if there’s just a 1 percent chance of Bush using or abusing the absolute powers he has claimed then none of us are safe.
Report thisBy Dale Headley, July 22, 2007 at 4:05 pm #
(Unregistered commenter)
Why should Bush give a damn about what we Americans think? God is on his side. God is leading the war, apparently, much as He (according to The Bible) did when he led the Israelites to slaughter all the men. women, and children they came in contact with after leaving Egypt. Hey, If God can commit rampant genocide, why can’t Bush? Bush is at least as powerful as God, isn’t he? at least he thinks so.
Report thisBy Hammo, July 22, 2007 at 1:26 pm #
The American people seem to be on a very different page from Bush.
The shift in public opinion against the invasion and occupation of Iraq (and against Bush, Cheney and their cronies) has clearly occurred at this point in time.
The similarities to the change in Americans’ views about the Vietnam War are obvious to many.
Thoughts on this in the article ...
“Americans felt turning points on Vietnam, Iraq wars in ‘70, ‘07”
American Chronicle
July 11, 2007
http://www.americanchronicle.com/articles/viewArtic le.asp?articleID=31984
Report thisBy keepyourheaddown, July 22, 2007 at 1:05 pm #
(Unregistered commenter)
It’s over, the damage is already done, Bu$hCo has fucked up the whole world, add in lobal warming and I will bet there isn’t 5 years to go…
The End Of Civilization As We Know It
It was nice while it lasted but now it’s time to move on.
Report thisBy GW=MCHammered, July 22, 2007 at 12:24 pm #
(Unregistered commenter)
Symptoms of an addict:
* Impatience
* Projection (it’s your/their problem, not mine)
* Overreaction
* Childish behavior
* Grandiose behavior
* Either/Or reasoning
* Irresponsible behavior
* A rigid, judgmental outlook
* Irrational rationalization
* Exaggerated self-importance and pomposity
For many addicts, excitement equals importance. So they appear to be ‘the man on the move.’ But their seeming busyness often equals avoidance; they’ve an addiction to feed.
Addiction governs their mind, not reason. Hence an addict’s motives are wholly self-serving. Avoiding withdrawal is the reason you cannot reason with them. They will sacrifice the health, wealth and well-being of their closest friends and family… yes, even their nation. They may not want to but they’re driven to.
If someone you know exhibits these symptoms, help expose their ‘Barrier of Denial’ and break the cycle of addiction. Contact your local Behavioral Health Center for more information. Ask how a ‘Professional Interventionist’ can help you, a loved one, or even your nation.
Report thisBy cyrena, July 22, 2007 at 5:08 am #
#88606 by THOMAS BILLIS on 7/21 at 11:46 pm
Thomas, I was being facitious. I know exactly what you meant, and I’ve long ago decided that Ms. Pelosi’s ass is the only thing that needs to be “off the table”.
The founders put impeachment in the Constitution, just for circumstances such as these. If she refuses to use or consider it, then she can be impeached as well. One form does it all. We just change the names on the paperwork.
I’m ready….got a team standing by, with not much better to do. (no income producing jobs any more).
Report thisBy republicansscareme, July 22, 2007 at 3:53 am #
(Unregistered commenter)
Last man standing? I’m afraid he may be the last man alive, considering the way he is running things.
When I see a unrealistically confident, even beyond over-confident, I think we are dealing with a nut-job who is actually welcoming a world holocaust, a nuclear war with everyone invited, because he is a Christain Crack-Pot who, if the End Times don’t appear to be happening by themselves, they will MAKE them happen. Armageddon. These sick jerks advocate mass murder and call it prophecy. They’re excited that the world is going to blow itself up, because it says so, right there in the Book of Revelations, which I call The Book of Good Hashish. A Magical Mystery Tour with The Dragons.
The Zionists are so psychotic that they are going along with it.
The Bibles are full of good stuff. They’re also full of some drivel. Maybe we can start to separate the good stuff from the dumb stuff, especially if the dumb stuff is suicidal in nature or gives people excuses to kill other people.
Biblical drivel is being used to justify the most expreme of positions in Christains, Jews, and Muslims.
Report thisBy THOMAS BILLIS, July 22, 2007 at 3:46 am #
(Unregistered commenter)
Dear Cyrena my point is that we have the solutions to our problems in our Constitution and that the Speaker has the brass to declare the cure to our crisis is"off the table” infuriates me.It is analogous to having operable cancer and have the doctor say surgery “is off the table.“I was hoping it would infuriate more commenters.The impeachment of a President was trivialized by the Republicans but our current situation is why the Founders put it in Constitution.
Report thisBy cyrena, July 21, 2007 at 9:44 pm #
#88357 by THOMAS BILLIS on 7/20 at 4:27 pm
Thomas Bills,
Just so you don’t waste any more time, trying to give the Speaker an out….that clause is NOT there, (taking ANYTHING ‘off the table”) and unless Ms. Pelosi cleans up her act, and gets in line with the real policy, (our Constitution)she’s gonna be the only thing “off the table”.
Report thisBy dick, July 21, 2007 at 8:56 pm #
(Unregistered commenter)
Bush appears to have some increasingly serious mental problems. The republic is in great danger if indeed he is deranged.
Report thisBy farmertx, July 21, 2007 at 8:49 pm #
GW=Mchammered
Damn good ideas. Keep the good thoughts coming.
Report thisBy Douglas Chalmers, July 21, 2007 at 6:58 pm #
#88487 by Enemy of State on 7/21 at 8:42 am: “...Hey wonder of wonders, Cheney had two hours of power, and we didn’t bomb Iran…!”
I guess Cheney couldn’t find his BattleStar Galactica in time, ‘Enemy of State’.
Quote LaTimes: “Bush reclaims powers after colonoscopy” Sounds like Superman getting over his dose of kryptonite. So a 6-foot endoscopy tube was shoved up his ass to find out what was wrong with him? Maybe the cleanout did him a “power” of good???
Report thisBy farmertx, July 21, 2007 at 6:22 pm #
Emily Ann
Don’t know what you are ingesting, but sure wish I had some. :D
Obviously you were speaking of what will be in his Library. Strange isn’t it, having a library for a man who has only had two books in his life and the second hasn’t been fully colored in yet?
Report thisShrub wanted a design (of the library) to reflect his Presidency. I suggested draping just any old building in thick fabric to reflect the veil of secrecy that he holds so dear.
By Neoconned, July 21, 2007 at 6:09 pm #
(Unregistered commenter)
I don’t think George has been communing with GOD so much as consulting Jack Daniels.
The guy is back on the SAUCE.
Report thisWouldn’t it be funny if we found out he’s been drinking since he got elected in 2000?
By GW=MCHammered, July 21, 2007 at 4:48 pm #
(Unregistered commenter)
NEW 10 COMMANDMENTS FOR GOVERNMENT @ WORK
1. Thou shalt not have no other Gods before We The People
2. Thou shalt not offer yourself an idol for gain
3. Thou shalt not use the words ‘Freedom’ or ‘Democracy’ for evil purposes
4. Remember the sabbath, for it is your only day off and you shall be held accountable for your work
5. Honor your parents, but do not Cost-Shift responsibility to our children
6. Do not commit murder, nor character assisination, nor voter fraud for political purposes
7. Do not commit adultery with Maddams of DC or White House Aids or K-Street Whores
8. THOU SHALT NOT STEAL FROM THE PEOPLE’S COFFERS
9. Thou shall not bear false witness against We The People, an opposing political party or other world leaders
10. Thou shall not covet thy neighbors’ border, their economy, military strength, oil or cheap labor
(from God the People)
Report thisBy jerryd, July 21, 2007 at 3:20 pm #
(Unregistered commenter)
Emily Anne is a nasty woman…she has not shared her happy pills with me.
Report thisBy DennisD, July 21, 2007 at 2:51 pm #
(Unregistered commenter)
The GOP insisted that Bu$h have his colon scoped to prove definitively that he does have a brain. As expected, the results were negative. Dick pardoned Scooter Libby and approved several more no-bid contracts while Bu$h was under keeping the administrations record of unchecked corruption and favoritism intact.
Report thisBu$h is now resting comfortably and learning the words to “Don’t worry, be happy” for the next karaoke session in D.C. otherwise known the State of the Union.
By Douglas Chalmers, July 21, 2007 at 2:18 pm #
Quote; “...Bush was “not at all weary or anguished” and in fact “very energized,” wrote Michael Barone .....He was “as confident and upbeat as ever,” observed Rich Lowry ......“Far from being beleaguered, Bush was assertive and good-humored,”.....”!
Oh, “very energized” eh, ha ha, I always knew that they gave him some magic stuff before he ever made a public appearance of any significance….....
Report thisBy Enemy of State, July 21, 2007 at 12:42 pm #
Cyrene, right prescription, you’re just a bit too pesimistic. Please tell yourself before bedtime “we have better than a 50-50 chance”. Then you might be able to sleep a little better.
Hey wonder of wonders, Cheney had two hours of power, and we didn’t bomb Iran!
Report thisBy Emily Anne, July 21, 2007 at 11:52 am #
Of course, Bush will be the last hawk standing. By the time the summer of 2008 rolls around, I suspect our troops will be on their way home, ben Laden will have been captured or killed, Bush will have put billions into health care, education and the poor, our borders will be secure, we will be much safer than were were in 2000, and the Democrats will still be thinking about actions they might take someday. You see, the history of the Bush administration is already being written, and it clearly shows that he is the most glorious president we’ve ever had. By the time he leaves office, buildings will bear his name, colossal statues of him will grace our parks, hymns of praise will be sung in our classrooms, and we will be pressing rubies into the man’s ear. We may even be arguing that we should keep the man in office.
Report thisBy Chaseme, July 21, 2007 at 11:27 am #
(Unregistered commenter)
Actually, bush is in such good spirits because of his scheduled colonoscopy. Performed by none other than the now doctor Ted Haggard.
Ted will begin surgery by first anesthetizing bush with a dose of Methamphetamines. Dr. Haggards team, formerly known, as the Village People will assist him by lulling the president with a more calmer and slightly different version of YMCA; this song titled Y Its My Turn.
The procedure is expected to last approximately two days, with a recovery time for the president lasting two months. The president will be required to attend some physical therapy, however most of his recovery will simply require a seat cushion, and some fiber for regularity. An alternate form of therapy is that the president merely be the last hawk standing.
In the meantime, president cheney has been seeking an appointment with Dr. Haggard by sending a memo to the doctor and naming another of his aide as the principal point of contact.
Report thisBy Emily Anne, July 21, 2007 at 9:50 am #
(Unregistered commenter)
Bush will rebound, of course, just in time for the 2008 elections. Ben Laden will have been eliminated as predicted. Troops will be withdrawn beginning next summer and the war will be taken off the table. A health care program will be announced. Billions will be given to education. We will be safer and more secure than ever. The Democrats will be left holding an empty bag. History, written by Cheney, Rove and other scholars on the staff, will prove Bush the most brilliant president in recorded times. Airports will be named, coins will bear his profile, and colossal statues of him will grace the parks of our cities. His legacy is assured.
Report thisBy SamSnedegar, July 21, 2007 at 9:18 am #
Sorry to come late to your party, but the only “pundits” mentioned in this piece were Barone, Brooks, and O’Beano, all of whom are dedicated to the proposition that the moron is an actual preznit and not a puppet. Maybe Robinson is included in that group of whores or pimps for the whores, (who can say?), but as long as Robinson won’t talk about oil either, he fits right in with the rest of the Alice in Wonderland crowd who think the idiot boy actually makes decisions and sets policy.
On the other hand, if all of them are correct, and I am wrong, maybe the doctors will be able to tell us in the post-op news conference what other ideas the brilliant Bush has up there.
Report thisBy Marjorie L. Swanson, July 21, 2007 at 8:33 am #
There will still be a few Neo-cons standing with Bush no matter what happens. And they will still see the “bright, shiny” side of death and destruction. Just can’t wait for the next edition of Lunatics in the White House.
Report thisBy cyrena, July 21, 2007 at 5:09 am #
#88361 by farmertx on 7/20 at 4:36 pm
Farmertx:
....“I dont understand why Shrub isnt going to Walter Reed, to be among the troops he supports so much, rather than to Camp David for this procedure.”...
You do too know why. If the shrub turned up at Walter Reed, they would prune his ass to the nub. All of those career medical professionals are civil service folks, and whomever might still be left over from THAT purge/outsourcing (there are SO many)would surely be delighted to perform this procedure for him, without the anesthesia. (save the taxpayers a few bucks.)
Even I could do it. (not well, but who cares)I have several garden hoses that I had to leave back in Texas, along with my other worldly possessions, so I could just stop and pick up all of my “equipment” on the way to Camp David. Now THAT would make my day.I wouldn’t let him die or anything, but I wouldn’t mind leaving all of those hoses in all of his orfices for several hours, and turning the water on full blast, especially since he still isn’t sure that waterboarding is torture.
See how bright and cheery his ass feels then.
Report thisBy cyrena, July 21, 2007 at 5:09 am #
#88361 by farmertx on 7/20 at 4:36 pm
Farmertx:
....“I dont understand why Shrub isnt going to Walter Reed, to be among the troops he supports so much, rather than to Camp David for this procedure.”...
You do too know why. If the shrub turned up at Walter Reed, they would prune his ass to the nub. All of those career medical professionals are civil service folks, and whomever might still be left over from THAT purge/outsourcing (there are SO many)would surely be delighted to perform this procedure for him, without the anesthesia. (save the taxpayers a few bucks.)
Even I could do it. (not well, but who cares)I have several garden hoses that I had to leave back in Texas, along with my other worldly possessions, so I could just stop and pick up all of my “equipment” on the way to Camp David. Now THAT would make my day.I wouldn’t let him die or anything, but I wouldn’t mind leaving all of those hoses in all of his orfices for several hours, and turning the water on full blast, especially since he still isn’t sure that waterboarding is torture.
See how bright and cheery his ass feels then.
Report thisBy anambrose, July 21, 2007 at 4:08 am #
(Unregistered commenter)
A War Hawk?! A ChickenHawk is the correct discriptive.
Report thisBy cyrena, July 21, 2007 at 2:16 am #
#88393 by rylly on 7/20 at 6:47 pm
rylly: I apologize if I appear too lighthearted in the face of all of this, because in reality, I simply have to laugh to keep from crying sometimes.
Because you see, we’ve been in a CONSTITUTIONAL crisis, for nearly 7 years, ever since we elected one guy for president, and this socio-psychopath combo moved in instead. There has been a constitutional crises ever since. And, I’ve lost a whole bunch of sleep over it.
And, probably the reason theyre still “wondering” about the shrub, is because HE IS THE CRISES!!!
And ya know what rylly, there’s a remedy for him, and it’s in the Constitution. We call it impeachment, and if there’s a crises about USING it, let’s not blame it on the Constitution, lets blame in on the Congress that refuses to INVOKE that remedy. Because…it is NOT complicated.
Until we can muster the force to do that, then I think we should be “wondering” about George, because he DOES, after all, know - The NUKE code. That crazy SOB could decide at any given moment, that he’ll just blow up Iran, Pakistan, Turkey, Syria, or simply finish off Iraq from the air. Or, maybe do them all at the same time.
And, oh yes he WOULD give the order to fire away, especially if they left him alone with Cheney. He’s got 9 war ships (including 3 aircraft carriers) in the Persian Gulf right now, with all cannons and nukes pointed at Iran. And Cheney is thoroughly pissed, because he’s way behind schedule. He had planned on having both Iraq and Iran leveled by now, with another year or so to wipe out Syria. So, he’s anxious.
George PROMISED us that he would deliver WWIII, (whether we wanted it or not) and he has. So yeah, I’m worried about this Constitutional crisis, because it means we have no government. Nations with failed governments and no leadership, (note Iraq, its a puppet government, just like the puppet government that we have here, run by the same cheney.) are particularly vulnerable to any and all attacks. It doesnt help that weve managed to attack multiple countries, kidnap and torture various folks from all over the globe, and basically just engage in global terror. All of those are clearly Constitutional emergencies, because if wed actually followed the laws of the Constitution and the International community, NONE of this shit would be happening.
Meantime, I agree with Enemy of the State IF we survive, there actually could be a silver lining to all of this, even if it means we just go back to the basics, as in that nice blueprint we have, called the Constitution, and the rule of law. The problem is, I just dont think we can survive until 2009. (and thats figuring theres actually an election able to take place.)
So, if we want to fix this before its COMPLETELY too late, then get your petitioning shoes on, because what you have to do before anything, is impeach cheney. And, the groundwork is already done. Really, the paperwork is already done. Somebody just needs to get the votes. It could be over in 6 weeks. Get Waxman and a team of his specialists on it, and he could probably do it in 4. With cheney out of the way, the rest is easy. The whole house will fall down, and then we just have to rebuild it. I dont know what well use for money, since cheney has already moved most of our treasury to Dubai, and georgie has stashed the rest in South America. But well figure something out. IF we survive.
Report thisBy CitizenDefender, July 21, 2007 at 1:03 am #
George flew over the cuckoo nest!
Report thisBy eric swan, July 20, 2007 at 11:57 pm #
(Unregistered commenter)
bush is not out of touch, though he would like those of us who don’t like his administration to think so. think machiavelian. “Sensible” germans thought hitler a fool and look where got them.
Report thisBy farmertx, July 20, 2007 at 11:36 pm #
cyrena
Despite rylly not understanding the need for some light hearted comment in times such as these, I was grining. Thanks.
rylly, we are all aware that things are worse and going down hill from there. But short of acts of violence, we can only writeour Congress Critters, urging them to do the right thing and wait for the next election.
Report thisUnless a national security event requires them to be postponed so whichever of the two, Duhbya or the Shooter survives, can keep the country safe from its citizens…er terrorist’s.
By Patrick S Pattillo, July 20, 2007 at 11:30 pm #
(Unregistered commenter)
Go cyrena and weather. Finally, at least a few are speaking freely about the all too evident dysfunction emanating from Bush. Others have written about it, most notably psychiatrist Justin Frank, but the reality which most in their hearts would like to deny is finally breaking into the mainstream.
What does this say about those like Brooks who would turn around and propagate the curiously inappropriate optimism after an audience with el supremo? Bush can only withstand the most carefully screened forums and now the most narrowly ideological pundits.
Do they feel lucky or perhaps enlisted as co-dependents? I know I’d feel dirty, sort of like I needed to take a shower.
Report thisBy Enemy of State, July 20, 2007 at 11:24 pm #
cyrena beat me to “The Secret”, which seems to be part of the Sbrubs psychology.
Actually, (assuming we get through this administration relatively intact), I see a potentially large silver lining. The people of this country have been in clear need of an innoculation against faith based decision making. Eight years of the Shrub & the Shootist ought to do the trick. Then perhaps for a generation we can avoid electing such foolish leaders.
Report thisBy rylly, July 20, 2007 at 10:47 pm #
After reading your fluffy post, I agree, I think you need cognitive therapy.
Report thisThis is not all that amusing, or even that mysterious.
We have a Constitution crisis on hand and you are still wondering about George Bush?
By QuyTran, July 20, 2007 at 10:31 pm #
The “DECIDER” becomes “CIDER” easily !
Report thisBy weather, July 20, 2007 at 10:04 pm #
rx:clinical detachment
Bush’s most effective lie?
The one he tells himself.
Do we have an active Surgeon General? There’s pathology in the oval office and this patient George Bush is not fit to be in office.
Report thisBy cyrena, July 20, 2007 at 9:01 pm #
No Mr. Robinson…it’s NOT cognitive therapy that you need, (the newer version of Beck’s is now “The Secret”, as advertised by Oprah…same thing, new version…you can “think” yourself into anything you want. Oprah says it works wonders, but the folks in Darfur haven’t heard about it yet.
Meantime, it’s still not even the “The Secret” that has the shrub in such good spirits. As your colleagues have described him….
....“Bush was not at all weary or anguished and in fact very energized, wrote Michael Barone of U.S. News and World Report. He was as confident and upbeat as ever, observed Rich Lowry of National Review. Far from being beleaguered, Bush was assertive and good-humored, according to David Brooks of The New York Times.”....
Reason #1 they got him on the right day at the right time, at the height of a bi-polar manic stage, enhanced by a steady supply of that powdery stuff.
Reason #2 it wasnt really him. (he could have run off with bin Laden years ago, and we wouldnt know the difference between him and a well-programmed dummy robot even up close).
Reason #3 even your colleagues have been Stepfordized? (I hope not, but you did say they were formally conservatives).
Im sure you can think of others, but none of that cognitive stuff is gonna help you figure this out. Because, if you start finding a bright side in all of this, we would have to pack you up and ship you off to that parallel universe and alternative reality with the rest of them. You can bring Lewis Carroll and Stephen King along with you for reading material, just to get you used to your new facilities.
Hopefully though, youll stay here in the reality with the rest of us. We need all the help we can get.
Report thisBy farmertx, July 20, 2007 at 8:36 pm #
Shrub being the last hawk left standing will depend entirely on what plans the Shootist is making or has made.
Report thisSaturday, when the Shrub is knocked out for his exam will be as scary as Halloween for a 6yo for most of us, with the Shootist left in charge, officially.
I don’t understand why Shrub isn’t going to Walter Reed, to be among the troops he supports so much, rather than to Camp David for this procedure.
By THOMAS BILLIS, July 20, 2007 at 8:27 pm #
(Unregistered commenter)
Mr Robinson the word you are looking for is delusional.His positions are not based on reality.This is a very sick man in need of immediate psychiatric counseling.If the lovely and brainless Speaker of the House who arbitrarily dismisses parts of Constitution.“Impeachment is off the table"she said.Getting him out of office and allowing him to get the psychiatric help he so desparately needs is an act of cruelty by Speaker Pelosi.I wonder what other parts of the Constitution Speaker Pelosi will take off the table in the next election cycle.I have been thumbing through my copy of the Constitution and I cannot seem to find the"off the table clause”.If subsequent commenters can help me with the"off the table"clause in our Constitution I would be most appreciative.
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