Hans von Spakovsky wrote a piece on PJMedia yesterday detailing politically motivated perjury, three times no less, during an Inspector General's investigation of leaked confidential voting documents concerning the 2003 Texas Congressional Redistricting Plan, by an employee of the Voting Section of Justice's Civil Rights Division.
See here: The-justice-department-condones-perjury
When the DOJ, supposedly the protector and arbiter of the Laws of the United States, acts in a partisan manner to support one party over another, or a progressive agenda over a conservative one, or vice-versa, then all citizens should feel very scared that the rule of law is breaking down.
More here: More-on-perjury-confessions-inside-doj
By the way, did the above employee get fired, disciplined or disbarred? No.
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Fast & Furious: Holder Pulls Out the Race Card
Attorney General Eric Holder said this, quoted from DailyCaller:
"In a front page New York Times story on Sunday, Holder alleged that some of his critics — a group he referred to as the “more extreme segment” — are motivated by racism. “This is a way to get at the president because of the way I can be identified with him,” Holder said of criticism he has received for the Fast and Furious scandal, among other things. “Both due to the nature of our relationship and, you know, the fact that we’re both African-American.”
The comment drew instant and heated responses. Rep. Allen West, Republican of Florida, called Holder’s playing of the race card “reprehensible” and the “most insidious thing I ever heard.” Republican Rep. Joe Walsh of Illinois also denounced Holder’s comments, saying he believes President Obama “orchestrated” them."
"In a front page New York Times story on Sunday, Holder alleged that some of his critics — a group he referred to as the “more extreme segment” — are motivated by racism. “This is a way to get at the president because of the way I can be identified with him,” Holder said of criticism he has received for the Fast and Furious scandal, among other things. “Both due to the nature of our relationship and, you know, the fact that we’re both African-American.”
The comment drew instant and heated responses. Rep. Allen West, Republican of Florida, called Holder’s playing of the race card “reprehensible” and the “most insidious thing I ever heard.” Republican Rep. Joe Walsh of Illinois also denounced Holder’s comments, saying he believes President Obama “orchestrated” them."
Sunday, December 11, 2011
Fast & Furious: If you Read the New York Times...
Do you have any idea about the breadth or depoth of the seriousness of F&F? Do you even know about F&F.
The answers are most likely No and No. Because, the NYT doesn't cover things that might embarrass the Administration. On Thursday, Eric Holder twisted furiously trying to avoid answering questions from the House Judicial Committee about F&F. About 5 hours worth of tough questions. And the NYT mentioned nary a word about it.
The answers are most likely No and No. Because, the NYT doesn't cover things that might embarrass the Administration. On Thursday, Eric Holder twisted furiously trying to avoid answering questions from the House Judicial Committee about F&F. About 5 hours worth of tough questions. And the NYT mentioned nary a word about it.
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Fast & Furious: Senator Grassley Demands Lanny Brueur Resignation
Today, Senator Charles Grassley demanded in the Senate that DOJ Head of Criminal Division Lanny Brueur resign. Grassley has resisted expressing a strong condemnation of Holder and Brueur until now. This means that Grassley is finally convinced that the evidence has has is now of sufficient importance to call for the resignation.
This call comes one week before the first anniversary of the Dec. 14 2010 murder of Border Patrol Agent Brian Terry by Mexican drug smugglers. Two F&F guns were found at that scene.
Tomorrow at 9:00 Am ET the House Committee will again interview Eric Holder about F&F. I expect to see more prevarication and outright lying about what he knew and when. The count of people asking for Holder's resignation is now over 50 Congressmen, a handful of senators, three governors and many others.
This call comes one week before the first anniversary of the Dec. 14 2010 murder of Border Patrol Agent Brian Terry by Mexican drug smugglers. Two F&F guns were found at that scene.
Tomorrow at 9:00 Am ET the House Committee will again interview Eric Holder about F&F. I expect to see more prevarication and outright lying about what he knew and when. The count of people asking for Holder's resignation is now over 50 Congressmen, a handful of senators, three governors and many others.
Fast & Furious: Real Intent to Destroy 2nd Amendment Rights?
I have not really discussed this much, awaiting evidence. Now is the time.
For a long time, many people have speculated that a key reason for the creation of F&F was to provide evidence that the gun laws of the USA are inadequate and thus give cover for imposing more onerous gun control and to undermine the 2nd Amendment. Until now there has been no hard evidence of this intent. Now, Sharyl Attkisson at CBS News has found email evidence that this intent has at least been discussed within ATF and DOJ. This evidence is contained in the Friday Night document dump form last weekend. Attkisson is very good at finding smoking guns within these document dumps.
The real impact so far of this sort of discussion was "Demand Letter 3" which was designed "to be much more sweeping, affecting 8,500 firearms dealers in four southwest border states: Arizona, California, New Mexico and Texas." This new regulatory requirements imposed by ATF only on border state dealers meant that dealers had to report multiple sales of semi-auto center-fire rifles. This reporting requirement is not legal because Congress specifically told ATF years ago that it cannot collect information that effectively register long gun sales.
See here: Documents-atf-used-fast-and-furious-to-make-the-case-for-gun-regulations
CBS also offers this picture timeline to F&F: CBS Fast & Furious Timeline
For a long time, many people have speculated that a key reason for the creation of F&F was to provide evidence that the gun laws of the USA are inadequate and thus give cover for imposing more onerous gun control and to undermine the 2nd Amendment. Until now there has been no hard evidence of this intent. Now, Sharyl Attkisson at CBS News has found email evidence that this intent has at least been discussed within ATF and DOJ. This evidence is contained in the Friday Night document dump form last weekend. Attkisson is very good at finding smoking guns within these document dumps.
The real impact so far of this sort of discussion was "Demand Letter 3" which was designed "to be much more sweeping, affecting 8,500 firearms dealers in four southwest border states: Arizona, California, New Mexico and Texas." This new regulatory requirements imposed by ATF only on border state dealers meant that dealers had to report multiple sales of semi-auto center-fire rifles. This reporting requirement is not legal because Congress specifically told ATF years ago that it cannot collect information that effectively register long gun sales.
See here: Documents-atf-used-fast-and-furious-to-make-the-case-for-gun-regulations
CBS also offers this picture timeline to F&F: CBS Fast & Furious Timeline
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Fast & Furious: Real Violations of Law...
James K. Stinebower, writing at PJ Media, today has an article discussing the King Pin Act that he was instrumental in writing. The Act clearly lays out the need to have certain operations approved by DOJ and other Departments. An Operation like F&F is clearly included in this. So, either Eric Holder's DOJ is incompetent and did not get approval for letting guns walk to Mexico, or a law has been broken on purpose. The implications are very serious for Holder and ATF personnel who designed and supposedly approved F&F.
See here: Gunwalker-justice-dept-violated-us-laws
Stinebower writes: "I refer to the apparent violation of at least one (probably two) major U.S. laws by the Holder Justice Department. A few years ago, the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701, the follow-on to the Trading with the Enemy Act) was expanded in order to criminalize any transactions between U.S. entities — to include departments and agencies of the U.S. government — and all foreign drug cartels.
I am familiar with these prohibitive statues because several years ago, while serving as the senior drug analyst for the Senate Intelligence Committee, I was tasked to initiate and became the principal drafter of legislation which became known as the Kingpin Act (21 U.S.C. §§ 1901-08). The Kingpin Act is an extension of the highly successful IEEPA sanctioning program specifically targeting Colombian drug cartels...
A violation of any of the IEEPA sanctioning programs or the Kingpin Act carries stiff penalties, both criminal and civil, and potentially totaling decades in prison and tens of millions of dollars in fines. It is not necessary that an individual or governmental entity be shown to have “knowingly” violated any of these programs: it is illegal for any U.S. entity or individual to aid, abet, or materially assist — or in the case of Operation Fast and Furious, to facilitate others to aid, abet, or materially assist — designated drug traffickers. There are no exceptions within IEEPA programs for unlicensed U.S. law enforcement or intelligence agency operations."
See here: Gunwalker-justice-dept-violated-us-laws
Stinebower writes: "I refer to the apparent violation of at least one (probably two) major U.S. laws by the Holder Justice Department. A few years ago, the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701, the follow-on to the Trading with the Enemy Act) was expanded in order to criminalize any transactions between U.S. entities — to include departments and agencies of the U.S. government — and all foreign drug cartels.
I am familiar with these prohibitive statues because several years ago, while serving as the senior drug analyst for the Senate Intelligence Committee, I was tasked to initiate and became the principal drafter of legislation which became known as the Kingpin Act (21 U.S.C. §§ 1901-08). The Kingpin Act is an extension of the highly successful IEEPA sanctioning program specifically targeting Colombian drug cartels...
A violation of any of the IEEPA sanctioning programs or the Kingpin Act carries stiff penalties, both criminal and civil, and potentially totaling decades in prison and tens of millions of dollars in fines. It is not necessary that an individual or governmental entity be shown to have “knowingly” violated any of these programs: it is illegal for any U.S. entity or individual to aid, abet, or materially assist — or in the case of Operation Fast and Furious, to facilitate others to aid, abet, or materially assist — designated drug traffickers. There are no exceptions within IEEPA programs for unlicensed U.S. law enforcement or intelligence agency operations."
Saturday, December 3, 2011
Fast & Furious: Dennis Burke Thrown Under the Bus
In classic Obama Administration practice, Dennis Burke, the former US Attorney in Phoenix who was responsible for directing F&F, and who was allowed to resign with accolades from DOJ, seems to have been thrown beneath the wheels of the DOJ bus. Another iteration of the "Friday Night Document Dump" occurred last night. In it, DOJ seems to be setting Burke up as a fall guy for F&F, with accusations that he mislead his superiors about F&F.
Meanwhile, Eric Holder has sent a letter to the House Committee protesting that he only mis-spoke when he gave testimony last month. He is asking to retract what he said because, while it wasn't correct, it really wasn't lying.
Meanwhile, Eric Holder has sent a letter to the House Committee protesting that he only mis-spoke when he gave testimony last month. He is asking to retract what he said because, while it wasn't correct, it really wasn't lying.
Thursday, November 17, 2011
Fast & Furious: Mexico Requests Extraditions
The Mexican Attorney General Marisela Morales has asked for the extradition of six U.S. citizens considered responsible for the "gun walking" of over 2000 forearms to Mexico. Three of these folks appear to be weapons traffickers from Arizona. Another three are from Texas, which implies further proof of a Fast & Furious type of operation has occurred in Texas, something DOJ has not admitted. Notably, Mexico has not requested extradition of any ATF personnel. Yet.
Of course Eric Holder's DOJ and ATF doesn't seem to know that anyone did anything wrong. The families of, perhaps, several hundred dead Mexicans may differ on that point. F&F weapons were found at about 100 crime scenes in Mexico.
See here: Mexico Requests Extradition
Of course Eric Holder's DOJ and ATF doesn't seem to know that anyone did anything wrong. The families of, perhaps, several hundred dead Mexicans may differ on that point. F&F weapons were found at about 100 crime scenes in Mexico.
See here: Mexico Requests Extradition
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Main Stream Media: Why don't I watch them?
People often comment that it is terrble that I watch Fox News a lot. They think I should watch the alphabet soup networks because they are more "fair and balanced." Well, here is a simple example of why:
Two weeks ago, MF Global Finance declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy. Now MF is a relatively small financial company compared to Goldman Sachs or Citigroup. However, MF represents a $40 Billion set of mistakes by Jon Corzine and his management staff, and the 11th biggest U.S. bankruptcy. And worse, the auditors can't find about $600 Million worth of deposits. Two lawsuits filed so far.
So back to the big networks. How many stories did they do on MF Global in prime time in the past two weeks?
NBC: 4 stories, morning/evening
CBS: 2 Stories, morning/evening
ABC: 0 stories evening, 1 morning mention
And Fox? Almost every day.
Two weeks ago, MF Global Finance declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy. Now MF is a relatively small financial company compared to Goldman Sachs or Citigroup. However, MF represents a $40 Billion set of mistakes by Jon Corzine and his management staff, and the 11th biggest U.S. bankruptcy. And worse, the auditors can't find about $600 Million worth of deposits. Two lawsuits filed so far.
So back to the big networks. How many stories did they do on MF Global in prime time in the past two weeks?
NBC: 4 stories, morning/evening
CBS: 2 Stories, morning/evening
ABC: 0 stories evening, 1 morning mention
And Fox? Almost every day.
Scandals: Maybe Not a Scandal, but Pretty Scandalous
Six of the top executives at Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac will receive about $35 Million in bonuses for the year. One, Freddie's Handleman, will get $5.5 Million. Given that these two GSEs control 90% of the countries mortgages and have received $170 Billion in taxpayer bailout money (and now asking for $15B more), and the housing market is still severely slumped, what exactly are these guys doing to earn all this money?
Sure, these numbers are similar to a lot of private companies, but with private companies the shareholders get to approve bonuses. At Fannie and Freddie, no one seems to approve the scandalous spending of "other people's money." And they they don't seem to have any downside to whatever they do, because they are essentially guaranteed that Washington will cover any losses. At House Oversight Committee today, the presidents seemed proud that they have rented about 1 Million of the homes they have in foreclosure. Gee shucks, isn't that nice? Now how about figuring how to stop the taxpayer bleeding by actually fixing the market?
Sure, these numbers are similar to a lot of private companies, but with private companies the shareholders get to approve bonuses. At Fannie and Freddie, no one seems to approve the scandalous spending of "other people's money." And they they don't seem to have any downside to whatever they do, because they are essentially guaranteed that Washington will cover any losses. At House Oversight Committee today, the presidents seemed proud that they have rented about 1 Million of the homes they have in foreclosure. Gee shucks, isn't that nice? Now how about figuring how to stop the taxpayer bleeding by actually fixing the market?
Sunday, November 13, 2011
Scandals: Let's Have Some More
On the national scene: The Obama Administration once again proves it is a master at crony capitalism. HHS has made a deal for $435 Million for 1.7 million doses of a drug that can't be proven efficacious in humans, because smallpox has been eradicated worldwide. Besides, the U.S. already has a full stockpile of smallpox vaccine. According to the LA Times: "Over the last year, the Obama administration has aggressively pushed a $433-million plan to buy an experimental smallpox drug, despite uncertainty over whether it is needed or will work. Senior officials have taken unusual steps to secure the contract for New York-based Siga Technologies Inc., whose controlling shareholder is billionaire Ronald O. Perelman, one of the world's richest men and a longtime Democratic Party donor." Perelman and associates gave over $400,000 to Obama and Democrats in 2008 and 2010. See here: Smallpox Scandal?
On the California scene: The Sacramento Bee has a brave expose article today about the new Bay Bridge. They discuss questionable testing of the foundation piles by a Caltrans testing technician. In addition, kudos to the Bee for a nice detail listing of the cost increase history of the Bay Bridge, which is an edifice to the Browns (Jerry and Willie), and the MTC all of whom wanted a "signature" bridge to prove how big their cajones are.
Also on the California scene: The new report about the High Speed Rail system was released two weeks ago. As I expected the cost has gone from $35 Billion to $98 Billion, the miles of track are less, the ridership estimates have been significantly reduced, and the timeline for completion has been kicked out 10 years. The possibility of it ever paying for itself are now non-existent.
On the California scene: The Sacramento Bee has a brave expose article today about the new Bay Bridge. They discuss questionable testing of the foundation piles by a Caltrans testing technician. In addition, kudos to the Bee for a nice detail listing of the cost increase history of the Bay Bridge, which is an edifice to the Browns (Jerry and Willie), and the MTC all of whom wanted a "signature" bridge to prove how big their cajones are.
Also on the California scene: The new report about the High Speed Rail system was released two weeks ago. As I expected the cost has gone from $35 Billion to $98 Billion, the miles of track are less, the ridership estimates have been significantly reduced, and the timeline for completion has been kicked out 10 years. The possibility of it ever paying for itself are now non-existent.
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Carmel Still a Place for Romance
FastKitty and I spent a few days last week in the quaint town of Carmel. She found several art galleries that held her attention for more than the usual quick zoom-through. We walked the beach. We swooned over two beautiful sunsets. The food was varied and excellent. The Coachman hotel was cozy and freshly renovated. 17-Mile Drive remains invigorating. Best foodery: Baja Cantina in Carmel Valley.
Fast & Furious: Holder Finally Testifies
Today, Attorney General Eric Holder finally testified before the House Oversight Committee about what he knew about F&F. He used classic deflect and blame tactics. Given a cue by Dianne Feinstein's antics last week (replaying the Lie of 90%), he even tried to suggest that we need more gun laws, thereby displaying his contempt for the 2nd Amendment. He also deflected a chance to apologize for the death of Border Patrol Agent Brian Terry, with a fatuous response and an air of indifference. It appears there is little honor at the top of the DOJ.
When asked about when he first knew of F&F, Holder re-used the excuse that because DOJ has 115,000 employees and many programs and he can't read all the memos on his desk, that he didn't know about F&F until May 2011. Many people are suggesting this displays either incompetence or direct lying. In addition, he refused to accept responsibility for the scandal, or to say who he would hold accountable.
When asked by Senator Cornyn: "Have you apologized to the family of Brian Terry?"
Holder: "I have not apologized, but I certainly regret what happened."
Cornyn: "Did you talk to them?"
Holder: "I have not."
It shocks me that this man is still working for the people of the U.S. His disdain for the Constitution, for his employees and their families, for his office as chief law enforcer, is stupefying. In my opinion, it is a symptom of the Obama Administration and its hubris.
Later on Cam & Company on www.nranews.com, Lana Domino, a freind of the Terry Family, stated pointedly, "The blood of Brian Terry is on Eric Holder's hands."
When asked about when he first knew of F&F, Holder re-used the excuse that because DOJ has 115,000 employees and many programs and he can't read all the memos on his desk, that he didn't know about F&F until May 2011. Many people are suggesting this displays either incompetence or direct lying. In addition, he refused to accept responsibility for the scandal, or to say who he would hold accountable.
When asked by Senator Cornyn: "Have you apologized to the family of Brian Terry?"
Holder: "I have not apologized, but I certainly regret what happened."
Cornyn: "Did you talk to them?"
Holder: "I have not."
It shocks me that this man is still working for the people of the U.S. His disdain for the Constitution, for his employees and their families, for his office as chief law enforcer, is stupefying. In my opinion, it is a symptom of the Obama Administration and its hubris.
Later on Cam & Company on www.nranews.com, Lana Domino, a freind of the Terry Family, stated pointedly, "The blood of Brian Terry is on Eric Holder's hands."
Stealing the Public Purse: Assembly Plays Games with Specified Funds
The California Assembly, whose principle job is to provide the State with a balanced budget, has failed to do so for many years. They consistently play games with the public's money. One way they game the budget system is by "borrowing" money from special funds that were set up to accomplish specific purposes. Several examples:
Green Sticker Program: The off road recreation industry relies on a program and fund where the revenues come from an earmarked portion of the vehicle registration of motorcycles, ATVs and other off road vehicles. The fund is used to build and maintain recreational facilities. The collected monies are not supposed to be spent on anything else. The Assembly has stolen these funds.
Dept. Of Boating and Waterways: Similarly to the Green Sticker Program, boaters pay a fuel tax to fund grants by DBW to marinas to build and maintain marinas, boat launch ramps and other waterway facilities used by California's boaters and waterway users, including campers near boating facilities. The Assembly has stolen some of these funds. It has tried to roll DBW into the Parks Department, where the emphasis would not be on waterways at all and the money would not be spent as legislated.
The Gas Tax: Just like the DBW funds, gasoline taxes are collected to build and maintain highways. These funds are consistently spent on subsidizing commuter rail, bus systems and many other non-highway items.
Green Sticker Program: The off road recreation industry relies on a program and fund where the revenues come from an earmarked portion of the vehicle registration of motorcycles, ATVs and other off road vehicles. The fund is used to build and maintain recreational facilities. The collected monies are not supposed to be spent on anything else. The Assembly has stolen these funds.
Dept. Of Boating and Waterways: Similarly to the Green Sticker Program, boaters pay a fuel tax to fund grants by DBW to marinas to build and maintain marinas, boat launch ramps and other waterway facilities used by California's boaters and waterway users, including campers near boating facilities. The Assembly has stolen some of these funds. It has tried to roll DBW into the Parks Department, where the emphasis would not be on waterways at all and the money would not be spent as legislated.
The Gas Tax: Just like the DBW funds, gasoline taxes are collected to build and maintain highways. These funds are consistently spent on subsidizing commuter rail, bus systems and many other non-highway items.
Stealing the Public Purse: AB32 Costs All Californians Real Dollars
California's AB32 CO2 law is aimed at reducing CO2 emissions from all sources in the state. It also sets up a "cap and trade" system of granting and selling carbon credits to emitters. The credits start out free but the amount ratchets down over time. Emitters are forced to buy credits from other businesses if they can't meet the newest standards. The enforcer of AB32 is the California Air Resources Board (CARB). They have already forced truckers, hospitals, farmers and businesses to replace or retrofit diesel engines with newer designs over the past several years, in initial compliance with AB32. This has cost California voters almost $1 Billion for grants for truck engine replacements.
One of the industries that AB32 impacts especially is food processing, one of California's most significant. Processors use natural gas to dehydrate and cook food. One example of the impact is at Land O'Lakes Butter, which was forced to spend million of dollars on a new boiler to comply with CARB's newest exhaust emissions regulations. The new standards are so stringent that even a brand new boiler could not meet them. Thus Land O'Lakes is being fined and/or will have to buy carbon credits to make up the difference.
Thus, unelected bureaucrats are forcing businesses to reduce production, reduce employment, and maybe to make them move out of state. Steven Greenhut reported on a October 20 meeting with food processors in this article: California-global-warming-law-choking-food-processors. "(CARB Board member) D’Adamo agreed that CARB does not believe that AB32 will reduce global warming, but rather was passed to encourage other states and countries to follow California’s lead."
CARB always purports the estimated benefits of reducing pollution. But Assemblywoman Linda Halderman, R-Fresno, "a physician, focused on public health issues. Regulators and environmentalists talk about public health in a general sense — potential problems from an overall warming trend that humanity has limited ability to change. Meanwhile, Halderman focused on the real-world health problems caused by unemployment and poverty."
By the way, at CARB their euphemistic term for lost jobs is "leakage." How sweet. How head-in-the-sand. How sad.
One of the industries that AB32 impacts especially is food processing, one of California's most significant. Processors use natural gas to dehydrate and cook food. One example of the impact is at Land O'Lakes Butter, which was forced to spend million of dollars on a new boiler to comply with CARB's newest exhaust emissions regulations. The new standards are so stringent that even a brand new boiler could not meet them. Thus Land O'Lakes is being fined and/or will have to buy carbon credits to make up the difference.
Thus, unelected bureaucrats are forcing businesses to reduce production, reduce employment, and maybe to make them move out of state. Steven Greenhut reported on a October 20 meeting with food processors in this article: California-global-warming-law-choking-food-processors. "(CARB Board member) D’Adamo agreed that CARB does not believe that AB32 will reduce global warming, but rather was passed to encourage other states and countries to follow California’s lead."
CARB always purports the estimated benefits of reducing pollution. But Assemblywoman Linda Halderman, R-Fresno, "a physician, focused on public health issues. Regulators and environmentalists talk about public health in a general sense — potential problems from an overall warming trend that humanity has limited ability to change. Meanwhile, Halderman focused on the real-world health problems caused by unemployment and poverty."
By the way, at CARB their euphemistic term for lost jobs is "leakage." How sweet. How head-in-the-sand. How sad.
Friday, November 4, 2011
Fast & Furious: Now its 35 Congressmen asking for Holder's Head
As of Monday Oct 31, and this is not a Halloween spoof, but maybe a witches nightmare, there were now 17 members of Congress asking for Holder to resign. Larry Breuer, the assistant AG, was lately shown to have lied about how much he knew about F&F, so how did Holder not know? It is clear this week that the DOJ and the Administration are now fighting a rear guard action. They must continue their charade of "not knowing" to the bitter end because their jobs, via election or appointment, are on the line. So expect to see Lanny Breuer become the sacrificial lamb pretty soon.
See here: Congressional-calls-for-holders-resignation-more-than-double-to-17
And a little more browsing brings the total to 35 Congressmen as of Thursday, Nov 3.
See here: Montana-rep-rehberg-becomes-35th-congressman-to-call-for-holder%E2%80%99s-resignation
See here: Congressional-calls-for-holders-resignation-more-than-double-to-17
And a little more browsing brings the total to 35 Congressmen as of Thursday, Nov 3.
See here: Montana-rep-rehberg-becomes-35th-congressman-to-call-for-holder%E2%80%99s-resignation
Sunday, October 30, 2011
Fast & Furious: 8 Congressmen Call for Holder to Resign
Not since Watergate have so many Congressmen called for the resignation of a senior administration official like Attorney General Eric Holder. The power and importance of F&F is finally being recognized by more and more people who are experienced in the ways of government enough to know a true scandal when they see it.
Matthew Boyle at Daily Caller lists the eight: "Republican Reps. Vicky Hartzler of Missouri, John Mica of Florida, Quico Canseco of Texas and Gus Bilirakis of Florida each told The Daily Caller on Thursday that they believe Holder should step down now. The number of members of Congress calling for Holder to end his career in government because of Fast and Furious is now eight, a number which has doubled in one day. Previously, Republican Reps. Joe Walsh of Illinois, Raul Labrador of Idaho, Blake Farenthold of Texas and Paul Gosar of Arizona called on Holder to resign."
Matthew Boyle at Daily Caller lists the eight: "Republican Reps. Vicky Hartzler of Missouri, John Mica of Florida, Quico Canseco of Texas and Gus Bilirakis of Florida each told The Daily Caller on Thursday that they believe Holder should step down now. The number of members of Congress calling for Holder to end his career in government because of Fast and Furious is now eight, a number which has doubled in one day. Previously, Republican Reps. Joe Walsh of Illinois, Raul Labrador of Idaho, Blake Farenthold of Texas and Paul Gosar of Arizona called on Holder to resign."
Scandals: No Scandal in Obama's Camp says Partisan Reporter
You gotta be kidding me! That's my response to this article by Jonathan Alter, who wrote "The Promise, President Obama, Year One" which of course would make him impartial.
Alter's piece is titled: Obama Miracle: A White House Free of Scandal." In it he claims Obama has the most honest administration for a long time: obama-miracle-is-white-house-free-of-scandal-commentary-by-jonathan-alter
I guess he hasn't heard of Fast & Furious and 2 dead agents and 2500 guns gone to Mexico; Acorn/Project Vote ballot rigging; Black Panthers let off the hook by DOJ for voter intimidation; Solyndra loan insider influence; LightSquared spectrum selling with insider influence at FCC; questionable FLOTUS trips on public money; White House insider influence by union bosses; Non-cooperation with many, many FOIA requests by many groups; White House visitor logs non-compliance; Obama telling DOJ to stop enforcing DOMA without Congress' approval; Obama using edict to change the enforcement of immigration laws; ATF creating an illegal mandate to report long gun sales in border states; etc.
Alter's piece is titled: Obama Miracle: A White House Free of Scandal." In it he claims Obama has the most honest administration for a long time: obama-miracle-is-white-house-free-of-scandal-commentary-by-jonathan-alter
I guess he hasn't heard of Fast & Furious and 2 dead agents and 2500 guns gone to Mexico; Acorn/Project Vote ballot rigging; Black Panthers let off the hook by DOJ for voter intimidation; Solyndra loan insider influence; LightSquared spectrum selling with insider influence at FCC; questionable FLOTUS trips on public money; White House insider influence by union bosses; Non-cooperation with many, many FOIA requests by many groups; White House visitor logs non-compliance; Obama telling DOJ to stop enforcing DOMA without Congress' approval; Obama using edict to change the enforcement of immigration laws; ATF creating an illegal mandate to report long gun sales in border states; etc.
Fast & Furious: Napolitano May Not be Lying, but...
she sure doesn't inspire confidence that she is competant at her job. How can you not know how many of your agents have died? How can you act so oblivious, so unconcerned? Again, I ask were is the outrage that these department heads should be honestly showing as they try their damnedest to get to the truth?
Watch this video questioning by Rep. Jason Chaffetz of Homeland Security Boss Janet Napolitano.
Chaffetz questions Napolitano
Watch this video questioning by Rep. Jason Chaffetz of Homeland Security Boss Janet Napolitano.
Chaffetz questions Napolitano
Sunday, October 23, 2011
RedBear Rides on Switchbacks in Four States
Everyone knows about the famous switchbacks in the European Alps and a few other places like Chile, China, Bolivia. But there are great switchback roads closer to home in the Western United States.
RedBear and FastKitty did a road trip to Colorado in the past two weeks to visit my sister and look for possible towns to live in where we can escape the California taxes. On the way we treated ourselves to some wonderful roads. First up was the dips and switches on Hwy 120 near Benton and then there was the descent on Interstate 70 down off the San Rafael Swell heading to Grand Junction.
Second was the Rimrock Trail just south of Grand Junction, CO. This leads from town along the rim of the upthrust mesa in the predominantly red rocks. It has great views, smooth pavement and if taken early in the morning, light traffic and the sun at your back. There are some pretty good switchbacks at each end.
We went over East to Colorado Springs and then west by south to Taos and we continued to drive some great roads. Monarch Pass at 11312 feet had some snaky bits. One beautiful and unexpected road was Highway 161 in New Mexico with a 10,000 foot pass on the way to Farmington.
The next day was west toward a hotel at Bullfrog on Lake Powell. We did the twisty 17 mile drive in Monument Valley after a side trip to Four Corners. I had missed it before, but FastKitty insisted and it was worth every penny.
On the way through Hite, UT, we took Hwy. 261 and I received my gift of the trip - the Moki Dugway! I had seen pictures of it on many ADV Rider ride reports, but I was not expecting to actually drive it on this trip. Spectacular road building!
Then we negotiated lots of corners on Hwy. 95 following the canyons down into Glen Canyon and Lake Powell. We stayed at the Defiance House Inn at Bullfrog on the edge of the lake.
The next day brought the road section I had surreptitiously planned the whole trip around. Ten years ago I rode RedBear on the Burr Trail and I wanted FastKitty to have the experience. This road is paved in the National Forrest but is dirt through Capital Reef National Park and brings gorgeous scenery and amazing geology. Great for Bikes and cars. Forget it for trailers due to tight corners and the ford at Bullfrog Creek.
The road switches its way up a steep escarpment, similar to the Moki Dugway. The views of the southern section of Capital Reef are better than one gets on the well traveled tourist section at the north end of the park. Someday I will have to do the northern section (1670) up to Caineville.
The switches here came as a surprise to FastKitty. She squealed a little but loved the landscape.
Later in the day we passed through the small towns of Boulder, Escalante, and Cannonville and on to Bryce Canyon National Park. I had never been to the look-off at Bryce, so that was a treat.
The next switchbacks were on the way to Cedar City. We took the northern Route 20 to avoid the slow Hwy. 14 through Cedar Breaks Park, and ended up on another high pass road that was pretty neat. Good thing too, because the south route was closed due to a massive landslide.
So there you have it. The trip ended with one long day of high speed straight roads and curvy mountain passes in Nevada, followed by a beautiful trip over Hwy. 108 Sonora Pass. More switches and stitches! I had to pity the two guys with big toyhauler trailers who made the mistake of trying to use Sonora Pass to get to Nevada. Last we saw they were still trying to turn one of the rigs around and head back west to find a more sane route.
RedBear and FastKitty did a road trip to Colorado in the past two weeks to visit my sister and look for possible towns to live in where we can escape the California taxes. On the way we treated ourselves to some wonderful roads. First up was the dips and switches on Hwy 120 near Benton and then there was the descent on Interstate 70 down off the San Rafael Swell heading to Grand Junction.
Second was the Rimrock Trail just south of Grand Junction, CO. This leads from town along the rim of the upthrust mesa in the predominantly red rocks. It has great views, smooth pavement and if taken early in the morning, light traffic and the sun at your back. There are some pretty good switchbacks at each end.
We went over East to Colorado Springs and then west by south to Taos and we continued to drive some great roads. Monarch Pass at 11312 feet had some snaky bits. One beautiful and unexpected road was Highway 161 in New Mexico with a 10,000 foot pass on the way to Farmington.
The next day was west toward a hotel at Bullfrog on Lake Powell. We did the twisty 17 mile drive in Monument Valley after a side trip to Four Corners. I had missed it before, but FastKitty insisted and it was worth every penny.
On the way through Hite, UT, we took Hwy. 261 and I received my gift of the trip - the Moki Dugway! I had seen pictures of it on many ADV Rider ride reports, but I was not expecting to actually drive it on this trip. Spectacular road building!
Then we negotiated lots of corners on Hwy. 95 following the canyons down into Glen Canyon and Lake Powell. We stayed at the Defiance House Inn at Bullfrog on the edge of the lake.
The switches here came as a surprise to FastKitty. She squealed a little but loved the landscape.
Later in the day we passed through the small towns of Boulder, Escalante, and Cannonville and on to Bryce Canyon National Park. I had never been to the look-off at Bryce, so that was a treat.
The next switchbacks were on the way to Cedar City. We took the northern Route 20 to avoid the slow Hwy. 14 through Cedar Breaks Park, and ended up on another high pass road that was pretty neat. Good thing too, because the south route was closed due to a massive landslide.
So there you have it. The trip ended with one long day of high speed straight roads and curvy mountain passes in Nevada, followed by a beautiful trip over Hwy. 108 Sonora Pass. More switches and stitches! I had to pity the two guys with big toyhauler trailers who made the mistake of trying to use Sonora Pass to get to Nevada. Last we saw they were still trying to turn one of the rigs around and head back west to find a more sane route.
Saturday, October 22, 2011
Fast & Furious - Tidbits
So much has happened in the past week and continues to happen so quickly that I can't keep up. But the hole gets deeper as the mud is removed. Here are a few tidbits:
Senator Grassley at Judicial Watch: Judicial Watch Presentaion by Grassley
Obama Science Czar covers up emails, proving openness in Obama Administration is a joke: Obama-science-czar-led-un-effort-hide-proceedings-subvert-foia-records-indicate
Senator Grassley at Judicial Watch: Judicial Watch Presentaion by Grassley
Obama Science Czar covers up emails, proving openness in Obama Administration is a joke: Obama-science-czar-led-un-effort-hide-proceedings-subvert-foia-records-indicate
Friday, October 21, 2011
Fast & Furious - Eric Holder Subpeonaed
The House Oversight Committee on October 12 SUBPOENAED Attorney General Eric Holder and many, many other administration and political office holders in connection with Fast & Furious. The last time this happened was in the Richard Nixon era.
The F&F scandal is now about 8 months old. More and more information keep coming to the surface, each piece more heinous than the last. The big question for me is: Why isn't The President hot and bothered about this scandal? Why hasn't The President come down hard looking for the answers to why people have died and guns have been lost in Mexico? All I can think is that he also is trying to make it all go away. I am waiting for the Nixonian moment when he proclaims "I did not know about Fast and Furious." Oh, wait, he did say that.
RedBear prediction: Even if Holder gets indicted, or convicted for this scandal, he will get off. Obama will almost certainly pardon him. It's the Chicago and Washington way. Sigh.
The F&F scandal is now about 8 months old. More and more information keep coming to the surface, each piece more heinous than the last. The big question for me is: Why isn't The President hot and bothered about this scandal? Why hasn't The President come down hard looking for the answers to why people have died and guns have been lost in Mexico? All I can think is that he also is trying to make it all go away. I am waiting for the Nixonian moment when he proclaims "I did not know about Fast and Furious." Oh, wait, he did say that.
RedBear prediction: Even if Holder gets indicted, or convicted for this scandal, he will get off. Obama will almost certainly pardon him. It's the Chicago and Washington way. Sigh.
Fast & Furious - ATF Internal Punishment of Agents
I've been away for a week roamimg around Colorado, Utah and Nevada. Great trip. But I find on return that F&F is still generating amzing stories of scandal and wrong-doing within the Administration, DOJ and ATF.
Today, Katie Pavlich has a Townhall.com article about a very brave ATF agent who has been basically dumped and screwed over by the same ATF managers who were responsible for F&F.
See here: atf_ignored_death_threats,_tried_to_frame_whistleblower_agent_to_cover_corruption
Jay Dobyns, highlighted on the TV show Gangland, infiltrated the Hells Angels gang for several years, at great risk to his life, and made significant busts of bad guys. Now that the operation is over, he is getting severe threats on himself and his family from the gangs. Someone burned down his house. They threatened to kidnap and then rape his wife on videotape.
And what did Bill Newell, his boss, do? He ignored Dobyns requests for protection and then finally accused Dobyns of setting the fire. It is time for some serious changes in DOJ and ATF.
Today, Katie Pavlich has a Townhall.com article about a very brave ATF agent who has been basically dumped and screwed over by the same ATF managers who were responsible for F&F.
See here: atf_ignored_death_threats,_tried_to_frame_whistleblower_agent_to_cover_corruption
Jay Dobyns, highlighted on the TV show Gangland, infiltrated the Hells Angels gang for several years, at great risk to his life, and made significant busts of bad guys. Now that the operation is over, he is getting severe threats on himself and his family from the gangs. Someone burned down his house. They threatened to kidnap and then rape his wife on videotape.
And what did Bill Newell, his boss, do? He ignored Dobyns requests for protection and then finally accused Dobyns of setting the fire. It is time for some serious changes in DOJ and ATF.
Monday, October 10, 2011
Jobs Bill: Who is telling the truth?
The Houston Chronicle had a good summary of all the disingenuousness being displayed by President Obama and both Democrats and Republicans around the so-called jobs bill.
See here: SPIN-METER-Obama-disconnects-rhetoric-reality
See here: SPIN-METER-Obama-disconnects-rhetoric-reality
Fast & Furious: New Subpenas This Week for Holder
Darrell Issa on Fox News Sunday said his House Oversight Committee will issue new subpenas this week for DOJ and Eric Holder. See post below for letters.
More and more it appears Holder, Asst Atty General Lanny Brueur and other knew about F&F much before they admitted that they knew.
More and more it appears Holder, Asst Atty General Lanny Brueur and other knew about F&F much before they admitted that they knew.
Friday, October 7, 2011
Fast & Furious: Letters, Letters, Letters
Issa To Holder, Oct 9: From Fox News: Issa-responds-to-holder-letter-with-matching-gusto
Read the letter: Issa-responds-to-holder-letter-to-house-oversight-panel
Holder Complains to Darrell Issa, Oct 7: Eric Holder has written today to Darrell Issa to complaining about the bad press he has been getting. How can he explain away the apparent fact that the top cop was not kept informed of, or could not recall, an operation where a Border Patrol agent was killed? Holder to Issa
10 AZ Sheriffs Demand Independent Investigator: In a letter to Attorney General Eric Holder, ten sheriffs from Arizona have demanded an independent investigator be appointed to get to the bottom of the F&F scandal.
On the documents front (those released last Friday) Sharyl Attkisson of CBS is saying that there are many more documents in that release that have yet to be reviewed. And that she expects further important revelations to come from them.
Read the letter: Issa-responds-to-holder-letter-to-house-oversight-panel
Issa & Grassley to Holder, Sept 27: Issa asks numerous sticky questions of the Attorney General about guns and drugs financed by DOJ. Letter-from-issa-and-grassley-to-holder
On the documents front (those released last Friday) Sharyl Attkisson of CBS is saying that there are many more documents in that release that have yet to be reviewed. And that she expects further important revelations to come from them.
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Pass this Bill! - Oh, Maybe Not...
The President has been campaigning hard for a month to Pass This Bill! for his new jobs bill. But most Democrats don't like parts of it, not to mention many Republicans. So Harry Reid has refused to vote on it.
Harry Reid changed the Senate rules today so that Democrats don't have to vote on President Obama's jobs bill. Harry Reid blocked all amendments and then abolished the Minority right to suspend the rules and offer an amendment after debate is finished. Reid has basically blocked all Republican bills for the past four years by "filling the tree" with nonsense amendments to use up time. He is forcing the Republican Senators to filibuster everything, creating even more gridlock than we have now.
Not quite the nuclear option, but close. The nuclear option would mean Reid would try to get rid of the filibuster and the 60 votes needed to pass things.
Harry Reid changed the Senate rules today so that Democrats don't have to vote on President Obama's jobs bill. Harry Reid blocked all amendments and then abolished the Minority right to suspend the rules and offer an amendment after debate is finished. Reid has basically blocked all Republican bills for the past four years by "filling the tree" with nonsense amendments to use up time. He is forcing the Republican Senators to filibuster everything, creating even more gridlock than we have now.
Not quite the nuclear option, but close. The nuclear option would mean Reid would try to get rid of the filibuster and the 60 votes needed to pass things.
Fast & Furious: President Still Likes Holder; Others Troubled
President Obama today maintained that he has "complete confidence" in Eric Holder. "Obama said Holder has “indicated that he was not aware of what was happening in Fast and Furious. Certainly, I [Obama] was not [aware].”"
DOJ continues to obfuscate, claiming again that Holder didn't know about F&F, didn't know that Brian Terry had been killed, didn't know that gun were allowed to walk. Pick your poison at this point: 1) Holder is so disconnected from his job that he shouldn't be doing it, or 2) Holder is lying.
Today, more documents were released that show Holder received detailed briefings in 2010 about F&F and 1500 guns in the straw purchase pipeline. From Daily Caller: "In summer 2010, Holder received briefing memos from National Drug Intelligence Center Director Michael Walther on July 5, July 12, July 19, July 26 and August 9. Each briefing memo contains the name “Operation Fast and Furious.” Each memo also contains a description of what appears to be how Operation Fast and Furious was conducted." Fast-and-furious-docs-reveal-holder-was-given-multiple-detailed-accounts-of-gun-program
Meanwhile Congressmen Blake Farrenhold and Raul Labrador (ID) have called for Holder's resignation. And Congressman Paul Gosar (AZ) is saying that the DOJ is no longer representing the rule of law in the U.S. Many are calling for a Special Prosecutor to be appointed, as long as DOJ doesn't do the appointing.
And the Mexican Attorney General has announced that Mexico feels "betrayed" by F&F.
DOJ continues to obfuscate, claiming again that Holder didn't know about F&F, didn't know that Brian Terry had been killed, didn't know that gun were allowed to walk. Pick your poison at this point: 1) Holder is so disconnected from his job that he shouldn't be doing it, or 2) Holder is lying.
Today, more documents were released that show Holder received detailed briefings in 2010 about F&F and 1500 guns in the straw purchase pipeline. From Daily Caller: "In summer 2010, Holder received briefing memos from National Drug Intelligence Center Director Michael Walther on July 5, July 12, July 19, July 26 and August 9. Each briefing memo contains the name “Operation Fast and Furious.” Each memo also contains a description of what appears to be how Operation Fast and Furious was conducted." Fast-and-furious-docs-reveal-holder-was-given-multiple-detailed-accounts-of-gun-program
Meanwhile Congressmen Blake Farrenhold and Raul Labrador (ID) have called for Holder's resignation. And Congressman Paul Gosar (AZ) is saying that the DOJ is no longer representing the rule of law in the U.S. Many are calling for a Special Prosecutor to be appointed, as long as DOJ doesn't do the appointing.
And the Mexican Attorney General has announced that Mexico feels "betrayed" by F&F.
Occupy Wall Street: Humor by Mistake
For some rather hilarious reading try some of the lists of demands by the Occupy Wall Street groups. There is really no one group, or much consensus on demands, or much consistency on demands, or much understanding on economics, history or government affairs. But there is lots of flame and motion and discord and general mayhem. And there is lots of Big Mac eating, iPhone using, Twitter tweeting, etc.. Seems to me these things are products of good capitalism. Also available for public consumption are lots of garbage creating, gratuitous arresting, bad singing of stupid songs, etc. It all reminds me of the one and only student strike at my university in 1971. A few made classes unavailable for all, and most of the protestors didn't really understand the issues. The background puppet string pullers used the "useful idiots" just like is happening now in New York with strings now being pulled by the big unions, the American Socialist Party, and other radical groups.
For New York: Proposed-list-of-demands-for-occupy-wall-st-moveme
Another for Wall Street: Good-lord-the-occupy-wall-street-imbeciles-release-their-idiotic-demands-20-minimum-wage-and-across-the-board-debt-forgiveness-for-all
For Washington: Specific-demand-and-action-list-for-washington-dc
For New York: Proposed-list-of-demands-for-occupy-wall-st-moveme
Another for Wall Street: Good-lord-the-occupy-wall-street-imbeciles-release-their-idiotic-demands-20-minimum-wage-and-across-the-board-debt-forgiveness-for-all
For Washington: Specific-demand-and-action-list-for-washington-dc
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Fast & Furious: WashPo Reports on F&F - It Must be Real Now
Yesterday I said the Washington Post was ignoring F&F as a story. Well, shucks, they proved me wrong and released a document dump story late in the day. Except that it is merely a link to the CBS report from Monday.
But, true to the Post's mission to protect the White House, they ran an AP story on Tuesday about how a Bush-era gun sting project called Operation Wide Receiver that targeted straw purchasers in a similar manner to F&F. However, there was a key difference. Guns in Wide Receiver were not allowed to vanish. The article states no charges were filed, but other sources have said the criminals with the illegally purchased guns were prosecuted. 2-law-enforcement-officials-bush-era-atf-probe-permitted-gun-transfers-to-traffickers
And today the Post ran two stories. One by AP and one by their own Sari Horwitz. Of course both kind of made Eric Holder out to be the injured party. And to use a quote of "Calm down" from ATF Director B. Todd Jones is hilarious, as he scrambles to rearrange the deck chairs with a major re-org in ATF.
Horwitz: Calm-down-about-fast-and-furious-gun-sting-atf-acting-director-says
AP: ATF-head-makes-11-personnel-changes-in-trying-to-move-agency-past-gun-smuggling-controversy
I do give kudos for the nice hold no punches graphic though. Evolution-of-a-scandal
And, of course, neither story asked the question that some reporter must inevitably ask: Why hasn't anyone been fired yet?
So maybe the Post has awoken from their slumber and will now declare F&F to be a legitimate story. Or not.
But, true to the Post's mission to protect the White House, they ran an AP story on Tuesday about how a Bush-era gun sting project called Operation Wide Receiver that targeted straw purchasers in a similar manner to F&F. However, there was a key difference. Guns in Wide Receiver were not allowed to vanish. The article states no charges were filed, but other sources have said the criminals with the illegally purchased guns were prosecuted. 2-law-enforcement-officials-bush-era-atf-probe-permitted-gun-transfers-to-traffickers
And today the Post ran two stories. One by AP and one by their own Sari Horwitz. Of course both kind of made Eric Holder out to be the injured party. And to use a quote of "Calm down" from ATF Director B. Todd Jones is hilarious, as he scrambles to rearrange the deck chairs with a major re-org in ATF.
Horwitz: Calm-down-about-fast-and-furious-gun-sting-atf-acting-director-says
AP: ATF-head-makes-11-personnel-changes-in-trying-to-move-agency-past-gun-smuggling-controversy
I do give kudos for the nice hold no punches graphic though. Evolution-of-a-scandal
And, of course, neither story asked the question that some reporter must inevitably ask: Why hasn't anyone been fired yet?
So maybe the Post has awoken from their slumber and will now declare F&F to be a legitimate story. Or not.
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Fast & Furious: DOJ and White House Say F&F is Not a Story!
Sharyl Attkisson was on Laura Ingram's show today, talking about F&F and her revelations on CBS yesterday that Eric Holder is firmly implicated to have perjured himself. Sharyl Attkisson on CBS
For background, the Main Stream Media (MSM) has been doing its best to hide F&F and cover up the scandal to protect the White House and DOJ. The last time ABC even mentioned F&F was June 15, with a two sentence blurb. For NBC it was April 17. See: Media Research Bias Alert The Washington Post today had nothing on Friday's document release or the CBS revelations. The New York Times has been doing its best to turn the whole thing into a way to campaign for more gun control. Only the alternate press and Sharyl Attkisson at CBS and Roger Serano at LA Times have been consistently investigating and well reporting on this story.
So, today Attkisson described how press officials at DOJ and the White House reacted to her questions yesterday. At DOJ, the woman yelled at Attkisson, maintaining there really was not story to be concerned about. At the White House, a male press secretary screamed at her to write it their way - that she was not following their script of how to write about the story. He maintained that because the Post, NYT, and other MSM were not covering it there was no story.
Obviously, when press people say "there is no story, just move along now," then you know there is something important to be found.
Senator Chuck Grassley yesterday also told Cam on NRA News that on January 31 he had Eric Holder in his office and gave him a letter of complaint about F&F. So it becomes increasingly hard to believe that DOJ isn't lying about Holder's knowledge of F&F.
For background, the Main Stream Media (MSM) has been doing its best to hide F&F and cover up the scandal to protect the White House and DOJ. The last time ABC even mentioned F&F was June 15, with a two sentence blurb. For NBC it was April 17. See: Media Research Bias Alert The Washington Post today had nothing on Friday's document release or the CBS revelations. The New York Times has been doing its best to turn the whole thing into a way to campaign for more gun control. Only the alternate press and Sharyl Attkisson at CBS and Roger Serano at LA Times have been consistently investigating and well reporting on this story.
So, today Attkisson described how press officials at DOJ and the White House reacted to her questions yesterday. At DOJ, the woman yelled at Attkisson, maintaining there really was not story to be concerned about. At the White House, a male press secretary screamed at her to write it their way - that she was not following their script of how to write about the story. He maintained that because the Post, NYT, and other MSM were not covering it there was no story.
Obviously, when press people say "there is no story, just move along now," then you know there is something important to be found.
Senator Chuck Grassley yesterday also told Cam on NRA News that on January 31 he had Eric Holder in his office and gave him a letter of complaint about F&F. So it becomes increasingly hard to believe that DOJ isn't lying about Holder's knowledge of F&F.
Monday, October 3, 2011
Fast & Furious: Eric Holder Now Implicated by Emails
Last Friday, Sharyl Attkisson of CBS watched as the White House and DOJ released a big pile of F&F documents under shadow of Friday night. (See last post.) She has now had a chance to review the documents and her news report on CBS evening News tonight shows emails that indicate Eric Holder was briefed on F&F in 2010, with at least 7 memos between July and December. This April, when asked by Darryl Issa, Holder maintained that he didn't know about F&F until February or March of 2011. Of course, DOJ is saying that Holder is a busy guy and just because he was sent memos, it doesn't mean he actually read them. Can you say weaseling or incompetence? Or is he just plain lying?
Attkisson Report on Holder Memos
In addition, Atkinson reported on emails between officials who were worrying about "guns walking" even in October of 2010. They hoped in those emails that F&F would be wrapped up by December 2010. Too bad that didn't happen. Brian Terry might still be alive. Not to mention hundreds of Mexican citizens.
CBS, Washington Times and the LA Times are the principal mainstream media outlets reporting on F&F. Most of the rest are studiously ignoring the whole scandal. I wonder if an upcoming election might be involved?
F&F summary: Forbes Magazine asked Frank Miniter to look into F&F and write what he found: Fast-and-furious-just-might-be-president-obamas-watergate
Attkisson Report on Holder Memos
In addition, Atkinson reported on emails between officials who were worrying about "guns walking" even in October of 2010. They hoped in those emails that F&F would be wrapped up by December 2010. Too bad that didn't happen. Brian Terry might still be alive. Not to mention hundreds of Mexican citizens.
CBS, Washington Times and the LA Times are the principal mainstream media outlets reporting on F&F. Most of the rest are studiously ignoring the whole scandal. I wonder if an upcoming election might be involved?
F&F summary: Forbes Magazine asked Frank Miniter to look into F&F and write what he found: Fast-and-furious-just-might-be-president-obamas-watergate
Friday, September 30, 2011
Fast & Furious: New Documents - New Operations
Sharyl Atkinson of CBS has been paying close attention to the things that the DOJ and the White House release late on Friday nights. It is a favorite time to release embarrassing stuff so that the press can ignore it by Monday morning. Tonight, she found that DOJ has released more communications, requested by the House Oversight Committee, between ATF's Bill Newell and Kevin O'Reilly of the White House Staff. There are extensive emails discussing gun operations. And there is a reference to an operation the year previously in Texas. There is another reference to an operation out of Tuscon, NM. The smoking gun has turned into a blackpowder gun,with lots of smoke and flame.
Thursday, September 29, 2011
People: Christie on Earned American Exceptionalism - One of Best Speeches of the Year
How do you relate to the words: "American Exceptionalism"? They are hard to define for a lot of us. They are hard to express for those who feel them in their hearts.
New Jersey Governor Chris Christie spoke at the Reagan Library two nights ago. He has some answers to what we should mean and understand by the words "American Exceptionalism." I liked what he had to say.
Read the speech here: Chris-christies-ronald-reagan-library-speech
Read and view here: Christie_addresses_reagan_library_obama_a_bystander_in_the_oval_office
See also here: Christie-at-reagan-library-calling-for-unity
New Jersey Governor Chris Christie spoke at the Reagan Library two nights ago. He has some answers to what we should mean and understand by the words "American Exceptionalism." I liked what he had to say.
Read the speech here: Chris-christies-ronald-reagan-library-speech
Read and view here: Christie_addresses_reagan_library_obama_a_bystander_in_the_oval_office
See also here: Christie-at-reagan-library-calling-for-unity
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Big Givernment 2: Gallup Says Most of Us are Disatisfied with Government
I have my own definitions for big government, see big-government-type-2
Here is Gallup's latest poll, which has been done annually since 1936. The dissatisfaction numbers are huge now. Americans-Express-Historic-Negativity-Toward-Government
Here is Gallup's latest poll, which has been done annually since 1936. The dissatisfaction numbers are huge now. Americans-Express-Historic-Negativity-Toward-Government
- 82% of Americans disapprove of the way Congress is handling its job.
- 69% say they have little or no confidence in the legislative branch of government, an all-time high and up from 63% in 2010.
- 57% have little or no confidence in the federal government to solve domestic problems, exceeding the previous high of 53% recorded in 2010 and well exceeding the 43% who have little or no confidence in the government to solve international problems.
- 53% have little or no confidence in the men and women who seek or hold elected office.
- Americans believe, on average, that the federal government wastes 51 cents of every tax dollar, similar to a year ago, but up significantly from 46 cents a decade ago and from an average 43 cents three decades ago.
- 49% of Americans believe the federal government has become so large and powerful that it poses an immediate threat to the rights and freedoms of ordinary citizens. In 2003, less than a third (30%) believed this.
Not So Random: Leonsis to Obama - Class Warfare is Yucky
Ted Leonsis, owner of the Washington Wizards, among other things, recently wrote on his blog that our President is not fulfilling his expectations, and that he should stop with the class warfare rhetoric. And Ted is (was?) a huge Obama supporter. It is an interesting read, and jives rather nicely with Sarah's letter in my post below.
class-warfare-yuck
class-warfare-yuck
Random Search: Maybe We Should Have Elected Sarah
I was searching for something else and came across this letter to Senator Obama from February 2008. The young woman asks a lot of good questions and proposes a lot of good actions by soon-to-president Obama. I find it ironic that many of the same questions are still relevant today. How sad.
Sarah's Letter to Obama
Sarah's Letter to Obama
Monday, September 26, 2011
Fast & Furious: Tuscon Townhall - 200 Mexicans Dead
At a TeaParty townhall meeting tonight in Tuscon, AZ, over 500 people listened to Rep. Paul Gosar and ATF Agent Vince Cefalu talk about the scandalous ATF Operation Fast & Furious. Katie Pavlich of Townhall.com reported on the event, where people were extremely interested and concerned about the entire details of F&F.
In a later interview with Cam Edwards of NRA News, Sheriff Paul Babeau of Pinal County said at least 200 Mexicans have been killed by these F&F guns. He said one of his Sheriffs was in ashootout yesterday with a cartel person, but it is still unclear if an F&F gun was used.
Sheriff Babeau directly accused Attorney General Eric Holder and President Obama of knowingly being complicit in F&F operation, and thus endangering US citizens. He said they have "literally betrayed our trust...I am tired of the president...apoligizing for our country...
Cam also interviewed Congressman Paul Gosar who talked about the story below where taxpayers funds were used to buy guns. He said the House Oversight Committee Staff says that is probably not true. He said this story appears to be a DOJ attempt to discredit Paul Dodson and other agents. Stay tuned - this little side-story will be fun to watch.
In a later interview with Cam Edwards of NRA News, Sheriff Paul Babeau of Pinal County said at least 200 Mexicans have been killed by these F&F guns. He said one of his Sheriffs was in ashootout yesterday with a cartel person, but it is still unclear if an F&F gun was used.
Sheriff Babeau directly accused Attorney General Eric Holder and President Obama of knowingly being complicit in F&F operation, and thus endangering US citizens. He said they have "literally betrayed our trust...I am tired of the president...apoligizing for our country...
Cam also interviewed Congressman Paul Gosar who talked about the story below where taxpayers funds were used to buy guns. He said the House Oversight Committee Staff says that is probably not true. He said this story appears to be a DOJ attempt to discredit Paul Dodson and other agents. Stay tuned - this little side-story will be fun to watch.
Fast & Furious: ATF Actually Bought Guns and Sold Them to Traffickers
(Update 1: This story may not be true, but may be part of a DOJ cover-up. See next post.)
(Update 2: This story seems true but it was about another case not connected to F&F. The cover-up part may still be in play.)
Further F&F amazing facts. You couldn't make this disaster up even if you were Steven King:
(Update 2: This story seems true but it was about another case not connected to F&F. The cover-up part may still be in play.)
Further F&F amazing facts. You couldn't make this disaster up even if you were Steven King:
From Fox News: "Not only did U.S. officials approve, allow and assist in the sale of more than 2,000 guns to the Sinaloa cartel -- the federal government used taxpayer money to buy semi-automatic weapons, sold them to criminals and then watched as the guns disappeared.
This disclosure, revealed in documents obtained by Fox News, could undermine the Department of Justice's previous defense that Operation Fast and Furious was a "botched" operation where agents simply "lost track" of weapons as they were transferred from one illegal buyer to another. Instead, it heightens the culpability of the federal government as Mexico, according to sources, has opened two criminal investigations into the operation that flooded their country with illegal weapons."
Obama Gets Personal
"You've got a governor whose state is on fire, denying climate change."
This from a president who hasn't even bothered to ask if Texas required an emergency declaration for all the fires that burned 1500 houses last month, or the fires in the last year, or for the one year drought. What planet is he on? Oh, right, the political planet.
From Fox News today after I wrote the above: perry-camp-obama-playing-politics-tx-fires
This from a president who hasn't even bothered to ask if Texas required an emergency declaration for all the fires that burned 1500 houses last month, or the fires in the last year, or for the one year drought. What planet is he on? Oh, right, the political planet.
From Fox News today after I wrote the above: perry-camp-obama-playing-politics-tx-fires
Friday, September 23, 2011
Scandals: LightSquared Cubed
It looks increasingly like the approval of LightSquared's spectrum was done because of political favoritism in the White House. Jed Babbin, a former undersecretary of defense, said tonight on NRANews that this "bunch in the White House is the most corrupt" we've seen in a long time.
And LightSquared continues to insist that the problem of interference can be fixed by simply retrofitting GPS units with a little gizmo. Trouble is, the gizmo doesn't exist. 2nd trouble is, think of how many models of GPS units are owned by the general driving public, the military, the general aviation community, the boating community, back country hikers, etc. 3rd trouble is, LightSquared assumes users would buy these gizmos themselves - NOT!
And LightSquared continues to insist that the problem of interference can be fixed by simply retrofitting GPS units with a little gizmo. Trouble is, the gizmo doesn't exist. 2nd trouble is, think of how many models of GPS units are owned by the general driving public, the military, the general aviation community, the boating community, back country hikers, etc. 3rd trouble is, LightSquared assumes users would buy these gizmos themselves - NOT!
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Economics: Who Actually Pays the Taxes?
President Obama of late has been making a lot of the phrase, "They must pay their fair share." His inference is that the rich (supposedly those making more than $250,000) are somehow not paying enough in taxes and that the millionaires are paying even less. Well, is that really true? According to the IRS that is a very poor assumption. See here: top10-percent-income-earners
Be sure to click on the colored dots and notice how the share of the Top 1% has gone from about 20% to about 40% since 1980. And how the share of the bottom 50% of taxpayers has gone from 7% to about 2.7%.
So, if you listened to Peter Schiff in the previous posting, you can see that the people who create the jobs are being asked to both support the economy with their hard earned tax money and to create more jobs at the same time. But these things are mutually exclusive to a great extent.
The chart above is from the 2011 Budget Chart Book, prepared by the Heritage Foundation. Budget Chart Book It makes simple and interesting reading.
Be sure to click on the colored dots and notice how the share of the Top 1% has gone from about 20% to about 40% since 1980. And how the share of the bottom 50% of taxpayers has gone from 7% to about 2.7%.
So, if you listened to Peter Schiff in the previous posting, you can see that the people who create the jobs are being asked to both support the economy with their hard earned tax money and to create more jobs at the same time. But these things are mutually exclusive to a great extent.
The chart above is from the 2011 Budget Chart Book, prepared by the Heritage Foundation. Budget Chart Book It makes simple and interesting reading.
Economics: Peter Schiff Testifies on Why Only Private Sector Produces Wealth
The current Administration has been practicing what is popularly known as Keynesian economics for three years now, and the economy is not responding or recovering as expected from the 2009 recession. The infusion of Government money has done little to create lasting jobs or increase economic activity enough to produce the tax revenue necessary to reduce deficits. Those who practice conservative style of economics say this is because only the private sector can produce long-term, wealth creating jobs.
On Sept 13, Mr. Peter Schiff, CEO of Euro Pacific Capital, testified before Congress on how "he has been fined thousands of dollars by regulators for hiring too many people" and how "regulators have required him to stop hiring all together." He "followed up these shocking revelations with straight talk on how exactly big government policies choke free markets. He also went on to explain in detail exactly why a number of liberal ideas are disastrous in reality."
His comments are some of the best presented that I’ve heard on how government spending in general and stimulus spending in particular fails to deliver jobs and wealth. The interplay with Dr. Boushay shows the essential disconnect in the way our current Administration understands the way an economy works and how actual business people understand commerce and economy. Mr. Schiff has it exactly right.
Be sure to watch the second video, especially at about the 13 minute point. See Mr. Schiff here: ceo-congress-i-was-fined-because-i-hired-too-many-people
Fast & Furious: Abolish ATF? Rumors of a White Paper
Katie Pavlich at Townhall.com is reporting that a white paper is circulating within DOJ advising that shutting down ATF would be a good approach to the F&F scandal. Imagine, how better to cover up the F&F scandal? They would fire 450 agents; explosives would become part of the FBI; other ATF responsiblities would go to other agencies.
So if you shutdown an agency (usually an anathema in Washington), what happens to all of the records of operations? Do they just disappear? How convenient would that be? And if everyone who was anyway involved with F&F went to other places, then how does an investigation proceed?
Holder's DOJ and the Administration have no shame at all.
Link of the day: Slightly dated history of Fast & Furious: gun-running-timeline-how-doj-s-operation-fast-and-furious-unfolded
So if you shutdown an agency (usually an anathema in Washington), what happens to all of the records of operations? Do they just disappear? How convenient would that be? And if everyone who was anyway involved with F&F went to other places, then how does an investigation proceed?
Holder's DOJ and the Administration have no shame at all.
Link of the day: Slightly dated history of Fast & Furious: gun-running-timeline-how-doj-s-operation-fast-and-furious-unfolded
Sunday, September 18, 2011
26th Beemer BASH: Once Again a Great Rally in Quincy
The Central California BMW Riders held their annual rally this past weekend. FastKitty and I were there at the last minute, overcoming some illness to attend and help out. Despite the economy there were about 330 riders and guests in attendance from many states. The weather was again flawless, the beer was cold, the food was hot and fresh and the conversation flowed like fine wine. I was fortunate to spend some time with David Hough, a renowned writer of motorcycle how-to books on safety and proficiency. Here's a few pictures:
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| GS Ride guys ready to head into the wilds of Sierra National Forest |
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| David expounds on Sidecar dynamics |
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| Our Gals are happy and hard working! |
Scandals: More to Pick From
LightSquared: A company called LightSquared is trying to develop a broad area wireless system using spectrum close to the GPS frequencies. Severe interference has been found in testing. DOD is concerned for their weapons systems. Of course, the FCC is saying this will be great. This week, a general was pressured to change his testimony to make it appear the problems were less severe. President Obama was an investor in a previous incarnation of LightSquared.
Gibson Guitars: Why is the US Fish and Game raiding a guitar company over wood? And why do they need a SWAT team to do it? And why are they enforcing Indian laws?
Solyndra: It just keeps getting more embarrassing for the Administration. The White House pressured DOE officials to hurry up the loan. And now, on Sept 22, we learn that Solyndra's officials will plead the 5th before the investigative committee.
Gibson Guitars: Why is the US Fish and Game raiding a guitar company over wood? And why do they need a SWAT team to do it? And why are they enforcing Indian laws?
Solyndra: It just keeps getting more embarrassing for the Administration. The White House pressured DOE officials to hurry up the loan. And now, on Sept 22, we learn that Solyndra's officials will plead the 5th before the investigative committee.
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Who's on the Ball? Rep Gohmert Files "American Jobs Act" before President
Last week President Obama spoke to all of Congress to announce his new American Jobs Act. Too bad John Boehner didn't ask to sign it right then...of course it wasn't finished yet. The President unveiled his bill this week.
BUT, too late, Rep. Louis Gohmert (R) already stole away the name for a bill of his own. His American Jobs Act is HR 2911.
Gohmert's Act is only two pages long and would end all current federal taxes on income earners and corporations by setting the tax rates to zero. "The amount of the tax imposed by subsection (a) shall be zero percent of taxable income" In contrast, President Obama’s “American Jobs Act” raises taxes on individuals and corporations, and gives tax credits for preferred groups.
See here for a good laugh: conservative-nabs-naming-rights-to-american-jobs-act-after-obama-delay
BUT, too late, Rep. Louis Gohmert (R) already stole away the name for a bill of his own. His American Jobs Act is HR 2911.
Gohmert's Act is only two pages long and would end all current federal taxes on income earners and corporations by setting the tax rates to zero. "The amount of the tax imposed by subsection (a) shall be zero percent of taxable income" In contrast, President Obama’s “American Jobs Act” raises taxes on individuals and corporations, and gives tax credits for preferred groups.
See here for a good laugh: conservative-nabs-naming-rights-to-american-jobs-act-after-obama-delay
Fast & Furious: More crimes confirmed
Robert Reich, DOJ attorney, in a letter to Daryl Issa say that 8 crimes have been conformed where F&F guns have turned up.
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Fast & Furious: Why Isn't Anybody at DOJ Angry?
The liberal press uniformly calls F&F a "botched" operation, implying that it failed in execution. Eric Holder says that maybe some mistakes were made, but we tried our best.
The truth is the only "botching" is because they got caught running an imbecilic operation in an imbecilic manner. Two agents are dead, maybe hundreds of Mexicans are dead, and 2000 guns have disappeared.
So that leaves some logical questions: Why isn't anyone at DOJ absolutely livid about all the mistakes, about men dying, about guns disappearing, about obvious ill-handling of the whole thing? Why isn't Eric Holder out looking for scalps? One would think that a good leader would be outraged that his department had devised such a debacle of a plan, had poorly executed it and is now covering it up. One would think that he would want to root out the bad apples and fix the agencies (DOJ, ATF, FBI, DHS, and CIA) that are all involved. Curiously, one would be totally wrong.
Equally good questions are: Why are Democrat members of Congress angling for more power for ATF and more gun laws? Why is the NYT and Washington Post blaming the NRA and gun owners? Simple - deflection. For the left guns are always bad and the ends justify the means, even if it means burying your head in the sand. As well, they can take a chance on making Mr. Obama look bad for 2012.
All of the above begs the ultimate question: What did Eric Holder and President Obama know, and when did they know it? Hmmm, sounds familiar....
The truth is the only "botching" is because they got caught running an imbecilic operation in an imbecilic manner. Two agents are dead, maybe hundreds of Mexicans are dead, and 2000 guns have disappeared.
So that leaves some logical questions: Why isn't anyone at DOJ absolutely livid about all the mistakes, about men dying, about guns disappearing, about obvious ill-handling of the whole thing? Why isn't Eric Holder out looking for scalps? One would think that a good leader would be outraged that his department had devised such a debacle of a plan, had poorly executed it and is now covering it up. One would think that he would want to root out the bad apples and fix the agencies (DOJ, ATF, FBI, DHS, and CIA) that are all involved. Curiously, one would be totally wrong.
Equally good questions are: Why are Democrat members of Congress angling for more power for ATF and more gun laws? Why is the NYT and Washington Post blaming the NRA and gun owners? Simple - deflection. For the left guns are always bad and the ends justify the means, even if it means burying your head in the sand. As well, they can take a chance on making Mr. Obama look bad for 2012.
All of the above begs the ultimate question: What did Eric Holder and President Obama know, and when did they know it? Hmmm, sounds familiar....
Monday, September 12, 2011
9/11: Thought of the Day
George W. Bush spoke Saturday afternoon at the Flight 93 Memorial in Shanksville, Pennsylvania. It is a moving speech. A significant line from the speech was,
“One of the lessons of 9-11 is that evil is real and so is courage.” The past ten years have proven beyond a doubt that courage will out over evil. The price may be high, but the cause and necessity are true.
In counterpoint, he also said, "We have a duty to remain engaged in the world...The temptation of isolation is deadly wrong. A world of oppression and anger and resentment will be a source of never-ending violence and threats. A world of dignity and liberty and hope will be safer and better for all. The surest way to move toward that vision is for the United States of America to lead the cause of freedom."
Bush's 9/10/2011 speech: President Bush's Speech at Memorial Ceremony
Bush's 9/11/2001 speech: Looking-back-10-years-president-bushs-address-to-the-nation
“One of the lessons of 9-11 is that evil is real and so is courage.” The past ten years have proven beyond a doubt that courage will out over evil. The price may be high, but the cause and necessity are true.
In counterpoint, he also said, "We have a duty to remain engaged in the world...The temptation of isolation is deadly wrong. A world of oppression and anger and resentment will be a source of never-ending violence and threats. A world of dignity and liberty and hope will be safer and better for all. The surest way to move toward that vision is for the United States of America to lead the cause of freedom."
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| Former U.S. president George W. Bush and former first lady Laura Bush bow their heads during ceremonies marking the 10th anniversary of the 9/11 attack in Shanksville, Pennsylvania September 10, 2011. |
Bush's 9/11/2001 speech: Looking-back-10-years-president-bushs-address-to-the-nation
Other Ways to Give
Pass it on - Outdoor Mentors: Experienced outdoorsmen take kids on camping and hunting trips. www.outdoormentors.org
Catch a Dream Foundation: Provide the last dream for terminally ill kids who dream of an outdoor experience. www.catchadream.org
Farmers and Hunters Feeding The Hungry: They have provided 11,000,000 meals of venison in 14 years. www.fhfh.org
Farmers and Hunters Feeding The Hungry: They have provided 11,000,000 meals of venison in 14 years. www.fhfh.org
Friday, September 9, 2011
9/11: Ways to Give Back
On NRA News each night they interview many amazing people who run charities to help our troops and police and firefighters who were impacted by 9/11 and the current wars. Here are some amazing people who had a good idea and followed through:
Honor Flight: Dedicated to transporting WW2 veterans to Washington to visit the new WW2 Memorial. They are dying quickly and are usually too shy to ask. No cost to the veteran. Hooray for Southwest for sponsoring. http://www.honorflight.org/
Picture A Hero: Family photos for deploying troops. http://www.pictureahero.org/
Homes for Our Troops: Building homes for handicapped troops. Started by a builder who saw a need and had a skill. Built 97 homes in 7 years. Impressive. http://www.homesforourtroops.org/site/PageServer
Homes for Heroes: Other home building organizations exist. Watch for the .org sites to make sure they are non-profit. http://www.buildinghomesforheroes.org/about.htm.
Snowball Express: A Christmas Gala for families of fallen heroes. http://www.snowballexpress.org/
Blue Star Families: Support for military families. http://www.bluestarfam.org/
Special Operations Warrior Foundation: Started after the 1980 Beirut debacle, provides college educations for children in SpecOps surviving families. http://www.specialops.org/
Honor Flight: Dedicated to transporting WW2 veterans to Washington to visit the new WW2 Memorial. They are dying quickly and are usually too shy to ask. No cost to the veteran. Hooray for Southwest for sponsoring. http://www.honorflight.org/
Picture A Hero: Family photos for deploying troops. http://www.pictureahero.org/
Homes for Our Troops: Building homes for handicapped troops. Started by a builder who saw a need and had a skill. Built 97 homes in 7 years. Impressive. http://www.homesforourtroops.org/site/PageServer
Homes for Heroes: Other home building organizations exist. Watch for the .org sites to make sure they are non-profit. http://www.buildinghomesforheroes.org/about.htm.
Snowball Express: A Christmas Gala for families of fallen heroes. http://www.snowballexpress.org/
Blue Star Families: Support for military families. http://www.bluestarfam.org/
Special Operations Warrior Foundation: Started after the 1980 Beirut debacle, provides college educations for children in SpecOps surviving families. http://www.specialops.org/
Scandals: Pick one to your liking...
Currently there is Fast & Furious. Likely as big as Watergate eventually. But there are other scandals that the "most open administration" in history is involved in.
Yesterday saw the start of a potential Solyndra scandal. Notice how green, solar, or Solyndra was not mentioned last night? Well, the FBI invaded Solyndra looking for items in a sealed search warrant. Sealed warrants are wrong, but it is pretty obvious they are looking for favoritism in awarding the $535 Million loan guarantees (and subsequent re-negotiation) for Solyndra. From Mar 2009 to April 2011 at least 20 visits to the White House were made by Solyndra executives and influencers like George Kaiser, a campaign funds bundler and large donor for Obama and a backer of Solyndra. In the week before the loan was made about 5 visits were made.
Then there is PigFord. If you are black and claim to just want to be a farmer, or your daddy was a farmer, you can claim $75,000 in reparations for injustice done to you by the Department of Agriculture over many years. As much as 80% of claims by 94,000 farmers could be fraudulent in this case where Congress appropriated $1.5 Billion to make amends. Of course lawyers will see most of the money.
And how about Black Panther Voter Intimidation? Big mean looking guys with bats standing around voting places to keep out the wrong kind of voters. Eric Holder's DOJ simply let the charges drop. Amazing.
And let's not forget voter fraud, with ACORN convictions, stuffed ballot boxes and rigged voting machines. ACORN may be dead, but its children live on in most states under different names. It is still dangerous.
Yesterday saw the start of a potential Solyndra scandal. Notice how green, solar, or Solyndra was not mentioned last night? Well, the FBI invaded Solyndra looking for items in a sealed search warrant. Sealed warrants are wrong, but it is pretty obvious they are looking for favoritism in awarding the $535 Million loan guarantees (and subsequent re-negotiation) for Solyndra. From Mar 2009 to April 2011 at least 20 visits to the White House were made by Solyndra executives and influencers like George Kaiser, a campaign funds bundler and large donor for Obama and a backer of Solyndra. In the week before the loan was made about 5 visits were made.
Then there is PigFord. If you are black and claim to just want to be a farmer, or your daddy was a farmer, you can claim $75,000 in reparations for injustice done to you by the Department of Agriculture over many years. As much as 80% of claims by 94,000 farmers could be fraudulent in this case where Congress appropriated $1.5 Billion to make amends. Of course lawyers will see most of the money.
And how about Black Panther Voter Intimidation? Big mean looking guys with bats standing around voting places to keep out the wrong kind of voters. Eric Holder's DOJ simply let the charges drop. Amazing.
And let's not forget voter fraud, with ACORN convictions, stuffed ballot boxes and rigged voting machines. ACORN may be dead, but its children live on in most states under different names. It is still dangerous.
Agenda 21: The Ultimate Land Grab
If you don't know what Agenda 21 is, you owe it to yourself to do some research. There is lots of information available on the web. For scary reading, look at the United Nations web sites.
Private property rights in California are being subjected to Agenda 21, a United Nation's declaration on the collective society's right to control private property. Agenda 21 is being worked into all phases of land planning by zealous planners. If you value your private property rights (land, possessions, thoughts, money) start with this simple video:
Youtube: Agenda 21 in California
Youtube: Agenda 21 in California
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