Short Bio: I started blogging about politics in 2006, as a populist, skeptical left of center type, with a blog called simply, "The Populist."I suspect, but cannot prove; that my blog might have been hacked by some evil neoconservatives. I cannot prove that at all and also too, around the same time. Hackers from China where attacking wordpress blogs. I believe either the Neocons or the Chinese got my site. I don't know honestly know which.Either way, by 2007, I began to see that I really did not fit within the Democrat Party and liberal circles and after my blog was hacked; I created a blog called "Political Byline" and I kept writing; first as a Centrist and then as a Conservative PopulistFor my long bio, see the "About Me" section on this blog.
One down, many, many more to go… Neocons that is. Hopefully they get the rest of them.
The video: (Via the AP, which has all sort of updates to this story.)
(video removed, it was an autoplay video and there was no code to change to prevent the autoplay for starting, so I removed it)
The story:
WASHINGTON — The Justice Department has indicted former House Speaker Dennis Hastert on reporting evasion charges and lying to the FBI as part of an effort to conceal paying off the victim of “prior bad acts.”In an indictment handed down in the District Court of Northern Illinois, the Department of Justice and IRS charged Hastert, 73, with illegally transferring funds in an effort to avoid detection by the IRS, a scheme known as “structuring.”In the indictment, Hastert is accused of agreeing to pay one individual $3.5 million.Although the indictment does not specify the “bad acts,” sources said they could be from before Hastert, who is now a lobbyist in Washington, entered politics in 1980. The indictment does, however, claim that Hastert agreed to make the payments “[d]uring … 2010 meetings and subsequent discussions.” In at least one of those meetings, according to the indictment, Hastert and the individual “discussed past misconduct by [Hastert against the individual] that had occurred years earlier.”According to the indictment, the FBI began, in 2013, investigating cash withdrawals allegedly made by Hastert “as possible structuring of currency transactions to evade the reporting requirements.”When the FBI interviewed Hastert on Dec. 8, 2014, he was asked whether the purpose of the withdrawals was related to his lack of trust in the banking system, which he confirmed. According to the indictment, Hastert said, “Yeah … I kept the cash. That’s what I’m doing.” The indictment counters that Hastert “then well knew, this statement was false,” because he had agreed to provide the individual with $3.5 million “to compensate for and conceal his prior misconduct against” the person.
Could not have happened to a better guy. This was one of Bush 43’s cronies in the House. He basically allowed the Republicans to spend like drunken sailors under Bush’s term. That was until the Democrats tossed him and the neocons out. Furthermore, this turkey basically was responsible for giving Bush a blank check for Iraq; and it is believed that he was larging responsible for pressuring the House into approving Bush authorization for war.
For this, he deserves what he gets. May he spend the rest of his miserable life in prison.
Once again, Fox News forgot to include Sen. Rand Paul in their coverage of a new 2016 presidential poll, even though the senator outperformed other candidates mentioned and the survey cited made Paul a significant part of their original headline.Quinnipiac released a poll today featuring the headline “Five Leaders In 2016 Republican White House Race, Quinnipiac University National Poll Finds; Rubio, Paul Are Only Republicans Even Close To Clinton.” Yet in Fox News’ coverage, Paul apparently didn’t register enough to justify being shown on the broadcast of the poll.
If you think that Bill Kristol and John Podhoretz are not behind that, you are crazy. Why? Because they are these sort of people:
They are cyst on the ass of politics; and they should be ran out of the Republican Party and out of politics and as far as I am concerned, out of Country on a rail. 😡
Just a little housekeeping. There was a video on this blog for a long time. The blog posting was called “Video: The real Martin Luther King Jr.”
Well, I removed it.
It is not that I do not believe the content that was in the video. It is how it was presented and who produced the video.
I am sure that there are facts about Martin Luther King Jr. that are being suppressed by the King Center. It is widely known that King was not a perfect man. However, the terms used into that video were very much bigoted and I simply did not want to be perceived as someone who supports such things.
Many accounts will praise the sacrifices and deeds of those who fought in the American wars. Some versions will emotionally express their thanks and respect, while others will list their heroic actions. There is another viewpoint that seldom gets the attention that it deserves. Simply put, what is the true reason that all this blood was shed and the meaning of continued torment that follows, when the guns are silenced? Some will say, we just need to revere those who served. Others may dare to ask, why and what for?
The most positive decision coming out of the last thirty years has significance that affects all of us. It honors those who served and those who supported each conflict. Not all may agree with this conclusion, but how many have ever thought it through? The draft is now abolished. Involuntary servitude is gone and forced indentured service has now become voluntary. That is a victory that we ALL should celebrate.
Before you tune out and shut your mind, consider a process that is rarely practiced today. Thinking . . . The purpose of the State, and yes this applies to America, as well; is to protect and serve citizens. Did you ever hear these words?
” We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. That to secure these rights, governments are instituted among men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed. That whenever any form of government becomes destructive to these ends, it is the right of the people to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their safety and happiness. ”
In today’s world these are politically incorrect words. Who would dare seek to resist the American Government? It’s it un-American NOT to serve in her defense!
The next phrase that maybe some have seen before starts off with:
” WE THE PEOPLE . . . ” and goes on to enumerate the articles that form the Constitution for that government. Note that the individual is the sovereign, not the government. This is very basic, but so essential. If you do not understand this distinction, you are among the confused. You listen to a different tune today. ‘Service OF Country’ is a term you will hear, over and over. Intentions may be well placed by those who speak such words, but their comprehension is lacking. It is all about the Country serving “We the People”.
Efforts to compel community service into the schools and the general culture plays into the hands of those who worship the State. The notion that to be a ‘good citizen’ requires service to the nation, BY serving that government, is patently absurd and insane. It is a total renunciation of the reasons why America was founded. When the individual is viewed as a ward of the state, an not its master, you have lost the only war that veterans should fight.
During our short years upon this earth, we cherish and love many different ideas and people. Our family should head this list, even above ourselves. Likewise, our respect for our neighbor, community and country deserve our deference. But is the State superior, when it claims that it occupies a rightful place that supersedes the source in its own existence? I think not! And so should you . . .
Why is it considered to be noble that the United States is a continuous government since Thomas Jefferson uttered those most veritable words? America was born at the moment that he spoke these truths, not when a government was formed. Then why do so many of you continue to defend a government, who has long ago abandoned those principles, and has become eminently worse than that of King George?
The call to service needs to be in the defense of what is meant in the Idea of America. The country that we all now live in, so often has lost sight of that truth. We have much to celebrate, but an American empire is not one. The sacrifices made deserve respect, but not consent. The flag that waves deserves thirteen stars. The one that now flies, needs to be turned upside down.
We can all show dedication to our country, but does our country bestow respect back on us? ‘Love for Country’ means that country serves under the will of her people. For all those who served to preserve that goal, we honor your trust. For those who only followed a false master, my sympathy goes to your family. Our country already has paid a heavy price, for that blunder.
UPDATE:Some of you might not understand why I am taking such a hardcore stance against this man. Allow me to explain. When I was 9 years old, not long after I accepted Jesus Christ as my personal saviour; I had a young man, by the name of Mark Bloom, who lives in Melvindale, Michigan attempt to sexually molest me in the bathroom of Open Door Baptist Church, which used to be in the Delray district of Detroit. So, yes, this one is very personal to me.
This is sick as heck and it totally cheeses me off!
This is a perfect example of the issues that I have with the Church world and the Independent Baptists….
Jim Bob Duggar waited more than a year after his son, Josh, confessed tosexually molesting several female minors before contacting police, In Touch Magazine is reporting exclusively, based on information contained in the official police report.
What’s more, Jim Bob informed the elders of his church about Joshua’s actions and they waited three months before contacting authorities. The explosive new information is contained in a Springdale, Ark., police report obtained by In Touch magazine.
The report has been hidden since 2006 and was just obtained by the mag through a Freedom of information Act request. Jim Bob also refused to allow police to interview Josh when they opened a felony investigation in 2006. The Duggars star on TLC’s hit show 19 Kids and Counting.
In Touch magazine first broke the news of the Duggars’ underage sexual molestation scandal in this week’s magazine. (Note: Josh’s name is redacted from the police report but In Touch has confirmed the passages that refer to him.)
Other bombshells in the police report are: Josh Duggar was investigated for multiple sex offenses — including forcible fondling — against five minors. Some of the alleged offenses investigated were felonies. Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar were interview by the Springdale Police department on Dec. 12, 2006. The report says that James told police he was alerted in March, 2002 by a female minor that Josh — who turned 14-years-old that month — had been touching her breasts and genitals while she slept. This allegedly happened on multiple occasions. In 2006, Jim Bob told police that in July, 2002 Josh admitted to fondling a minor’s breasts while she slept. “James said that they disciplined (redacted, Josh) after this incident.” The family did not alert authorities.
Other bombshells in the police report are: Josh Duggar was investigated for multiple sex offenses — including forcible fondling — against five minors. Some of the alleged offenses investigated were felonies. Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar were interview by the Springdale Police department on Dec. 12, 2006. The report says that James told police he was alerted in March, 2002 by a female minor that Josh — who turned 14-years-old that month — had been touching her breasts and genitals while she slept. This allegedly happened on multiple occasions. In 2006, Jim Bob told police that in July, 2002 Josh admitted to fondling a minor’s breasts while she slept. “James said that they disciplined (redacted, Josh) after this incident.” The family did not alert authorities.
Now he reason for my anger is not what you might think. My biggest reason is this right here…. Via Wikipedia:
The Duggars are devout Independent Baptists[9] and are adherents of the Christian patriarchy movement.[10] In accordance with their beliefs, they watch only what they consider to be wholesome family television on DVD and various historical events. Their Internet service is filtered.
They adhere to certain standards of modesty in clothing in accordance with their religious beliefs. Shorts and tank tops are prohibited, and the women do not wear skirts with a length above the knee. According to Michelle, the Duggars feel that exposure of the thighs amounts to “nakedness and shame,” and runs the risk of “defrauding” others by encouraging lustful thoughts. They avoid beaches and swimming in public to negate the possibility of exposure to other women and “lustful thoughts” by their men.[11] Female family members do not cut their hair short, and males are clean-shaven and short-haired. They practice chaperonedcourtship, instead of typical dating, which includes rules against such things as any physical contact. The suitor must ask permission from the young woman’s father before approaching her for a courtship and before proposing to her.
They are of the same doctrinal stance as me; this is horrible. It makes all of we independent Baptists look like crazy people. People say, “don’t judge.” To which I say, “Like hell!” These people are supposed to shining examples of what “true Christianity” is supposed to be about. …and like most Christians, especially Fundy Christians, they got the bully pulpit, and made some good money off the show, only to find out, they are a bunch of flipping fakes! Just like the Duck Dynasty people!
Back 12 years ago our family went through one of the most difficult times of our lives. When Josh was a young teenager, he made some very bad mistakes and we were shocked. We had tried to teach him right from wrong. That dark and difficult time caused us to seek God like never before. Even though we would never choose to go through something so terrible, each one of our family members drew closer to God. We pray that as people watch our lives they see that we are not a perfect family. We have challenges and struggles everyday. It is one of the reasons we treasure our faith so much because God’s kindness and goodness and forgiveness are extended to us — even though we are so undeserving. We hope somehow the story of our journey — the good times and the difficult times — cause you to see the kindness of God and learn that He can bring you through anything.
From Josh:
Twelve years ago, as a young teenager I acted inexcusably for which I am extremely sorry and deeply regret. I hurt others, including my family and close friends. I confessed this to my parents who took several steps to help me address the situation. We spoke with the authorities where I confessed my wrongdoing and my parents arranged for me and those affected by my actions to receive counseling. I understood that if I continued down this wrong road that I would end up ruining my life. I sought forgiveness from those I had wronged and asked Christ to forgive me and come into my life. I would do anything to go back to those teen years and take different actions. In my life today, I am so very thankful for God’s grace, mercy and redemption.
From Anna:
I can imagine the shock many of you are going through reading this. I remember feeling that same shock. It was not at the point of engagement, or after we were married – it was two years before Josh asked me to marry him. When my family and I first visited the Duggar Home, Josh shared his past teenage mistakes. I was surprised at his openness and humility and at the same time didn’t know why he was sharing it. For Josh he wanted not just me but my parents to know who he really was — even every difficult past mistakes. At that point and over the next two years, Josh shared how the counseling he received changed his life as he continued to do what he was taught. And when you, our sweet fans, first met me when Josh asked me to marry him… I was able to say, “Yes” knowing who Josh really is – someone who had gone down a wrong path and had humbled himself before God and those whom he had offended. Someone who had received the help needed to change the direction of his life and do what is right. I want to say thank you to those who took time over a decade ago to help Josh in a time of crisis. Your investment changed his life from going down the wrong path to doing what is right. If it weren’t for your help I would not be here as his wife — celebrating 6 1/2 years of marriage to a man who knows how to be a gentleman and treat a girl right. Thank you to all of you who tirelessly work with children in crisis, you are changing lives and I am forever grateful for all of you.
Sorry, but that has to be the lamest excuse for a reason for what this kid did. He should be in prison and is not. Now, here’s another fun fact the sheriff that talked to this kid? He ended up getting 53 years in prison for child porn charges. Oh, there is something seriously wrong in Tontitown, Arkansas, something awfully wrong and it isn’t “oh, those meanie liberals picking on those wonderful Christian/Baptist people” either!
Prof. Robert George’s group, American Principles in Action, has released an “immigration reform” plan calling for enforcement followed by amnesty and increased guestworker admissions. The plan (really more of a brief outline) shows the power of the demand for Enforcement First and the importance of rejecting compromise on core principles. Perhaps the most important sentence in the outline is this (the emphasis is mine): “After we have secured the border and toughened up interior enforcement, we should then provide undocumented immigrants a path to legal status, short of citizenship.” This is a fundamental concession by at least part of the pro-amnesty Right. During the immigration debate in the last Congress, immigration hawks were vilified for rejecting the Schumer-Rubio bill’s amnesty-first approach and insisting instead that enforcement be fully implemented before anything else happened. Alfonso Aguilar, who runs Prof. George’s “Latino Partnership for Conservative Principles” project and who released this plan, was an aggressive proponent of the Schumer-Rubio bill and was one of those vilifying conservatives who insisted on Enforcement First. Now, it seems, he’s joined our ranks. In other words, they blinked.
My whole argument has been, since day one, has been secure the border and then go from there. Personally, I would like to see ALL of the illegals deported back to their home countries.
This one takes me back to simpler time in my life, in the 1980’s. When I was stronger, when I was hardcore for the Lord. This was my feelings about the Church World, at the time. Still is, to a degree. Maybe even more so now.
Fun Fact: Steve Camp was a Baptist, He is now a hardcore Calvinist.
Lyrics:
I feel sick when I look at the sin in my life
I can’t take it any longer
All along I’ve known what to do–what is right
But my heart wasn’t stronger
Why do I do the things I don’t want to do ?
Do you ever feel the same way?
Like sin has got it’s hold over you
You try to stop but you just can’t walk away
Why do I listen to the teaching that tickles my ears?
How they play on my emotions
How can they laugh at the truth in tears (?)
There’s no call for my devotion
Am I man enough to face the truth?
Do you ever feel the same way?
Like the world has got its hold on you
You try to stop but you just can’t walk away
Cheap grace
We’ve watered down the blood he shed
We say we’ve given all
But we have hardly bled
Cheap grace
You know it cost him everything
It’s easy to abuse
What you think is for free
In these last days men’s hearts will turn hard
They become lovers of pleasure
Oh how they run away from their God
To seek other treasures
Why do I do the things I don’t want to do?
Do you ever feel the same way?
Like the world has got its hold on you
You try to stop but you just can’t walk away
Repeat chorus
Am I man enough to face the truth?
Do you ever feel the same way?
Like the world has got its hold on you
You try to stop but you just can’t walk away
Repeat chorus
Repeat chorus
Do you think it’s for free?
I feel sick when I look at the sin in my life (x2)
Here’s what I think about activist Pamela Geller’s recent “Draw the Prophet” contest in Garland, Texas, where two wannabe jihadists were killed trying to carry out a terror attack: Geller had every right to organize that contest, and she should not be chided for supposedly abusing that right. When extremists use deadly violence against speech that offends them, tut-tutting “just because you can do it doesn’t mean it’s a good idea” is unseemly and misguided.JihadWatchI also believe that, as I argued recently in The Daily Beast, Geller and her associate Robert Spencer are terrible poster children not only for free speech, but for combating Islamist extremism—because they routinely blur the lines not only between “anti-jihadism” and a war on Islam, but between criticism of Islam and Muslim-bashing. I don’t believe Mohammed cartoons are an attack on Muslims, and I actually thought the contest winner made an excellent point. However, as I documented, Geller and Spencer have spent years stoking anti-Muslim hysteria. I’m not fond of the term “Islamophobia,” which lumps together criticism of a religion and hatred toward its adherents; but “bigotry,” in this case, is not too strong a term
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