Democratic Candidate: Lincoln Chaffee

Lincoln Davenport Chafee is an American politician from Rhode Island who has served as the Mayor of Warwick, a U.S. Senator and as the 74th Governor of Rhode Island. Lincoln is married with three children, and seeking the nomination for the Democratic Candidate of the 2016 Presidential election.

On The Issues:

Progressive

Abortion:

• Support right to woman's personal reproductive decisions. (Jun 2015)
• A woman should make her own reproductive decisions. (Sep 2012)
• Emotional & divisive abortion debate takes over other issues. (Apr 2008)
• Opposed Alito because he didn't respect right to privacy. (Apr 2008)
• Embryonic stem cell research could help with many diseases. (Sep 2006)
• Leaving abortion to states means only wealthy have choice. (Sep 2006)
• The real potential for cures is in the embryonic stem cells. (Aug 2006)
• Opposed the Alito nomination on 3 issues, not litmus test. (Aug 2006)
• Strongly supports “Abortion is a woman’s right”. (Sep 2000)
• Voted NO on notifying parents of minors who get out-of-state abortions. (Jul 2006)
• Voted YES on $100M to reduce teen pregnancy by education & contraceptives. (Mar 2005)
• Voted NO on criminal penalty for harming unborn fetus during other crime. (Mar 2004)
• Voted NO on banning partial birth abortions except for maternal life. (Mar 2003)
• Voted NO on maintaining ban on Military Base Abortions. (Jun 2000)
• Rated 90% by NARAL, indicating a pro-choice voting record. (Dec 2003)
• Expand embryonic stem cell research. (Jun 2004)
• Sponsored bill for emergency contraception for rape victims. (Sep 2006)

On The Economy:

• Widening disparity of wealth hurts the middle class. (Apr 2015)
• 100-Day, 10-Point Economic Plan for RI development. (Nov 2010)
• Reinstitute pay-as-you-go: match tax cuts & spending cuts. (Sep 2006)
• Pork barrel accounts for 1% of the budget, and is requested. (Aug 2006)
• Voted NO on $40B in reduced federal overall spending. (Dec 2005)
• Voted NO on prioritizing national debt reduction below tax cuts. (Apr 2000)
• Maintain & enforce existing spending caps in the future. (Sep 1998) 

On Social Security:

• Don’t put Soc. Sec. benefits at risk. (Sep 2006)
• Supports privatizing Social Security. (Sep 2000)
• Rated 30% by the ARA, indicating an anti-senior voting record. (Dec 2003)
• Supports individual savings accounts and work incentives. (Sep 1998) 

On Civil Rights:

• People of color are the future of Rhode Island. (Jan 2014)
• Long-time supporter of the LGBT community. (Nov 2010)
• 1964: Opposing Civil Rights Act was wrong side of history. (Apr 2008)
• 2006: Marriage Amendment ignores states' rights. (Apr 2008)
• Gay marriage is a state issue, not for federal constitution. (Sep 2006)
• Supports “Sexual orientation protected by civil rights laws”. (Sep 2000)
• Continue affirmative action programs. (Jan 2000)
• Voted NO on recommending Constitutional ban on flag desecration. (Jun 2006)
• Voted NO on constitutional ban of same-sex marriage. (Jun 2006)
• Voted YES on adding sexual orientation to definition of hate crimes. (Jun 2002)
• Voted YES on loosening restrictions on cell phone wiretapping. (Oct 2001)
• Voted YES on expanding hate crimes to include sexual orientation. (Jun 2000)
• Require 90 day delay for compliance before ADA lawsuits. (May 2002)
• Limit interstate class-action lawsuits to federal courts . (May 2002)
• Rated 60% by the ACLU, indicating a mixed civil rights voting record. (Dec 2002) 

On Gun Control:

• Common sense adherence to the Second Amendment. (Jun 2015)
• Voted NO on prohibiting lawsuits against gun manufacturers. (Jul 2005)
• Voted NO on banning lawsuits against gun manufacturers for gun violence. (Mar 2004) 

On Drugs:

• Decriminalized small amounts of marijuana as governor. (Jun 2015)
• I doubt our culture would allow legalizing hard drugs. (Apr 2008)
• Discuss implementation of "Plan Colombia". (Sep 2000) 

On Education:

$6 million for RI higher education: make tuition affordable. (Jun 2015) Supports NCLB’s standardized testing, if federally funded. (Sep 2006) Fund special education before tax cuts for the wealthy. (Aug 2006) Supports parents choosing schools via vouchers. (Sep 2000) Supports vouchers & charters, plus more public funding. (Jan 2000) Voted NO on $52M for "21st century community learning centers". (Oct 2005) Voted NO on $5B for grants to local educational agencies. (Oct 2005) Voted YES on shifting $11B from corporate tax loopholes to education. (Mar 2005) Voted NO on funding smaller classes instead of private tutors. (May 2001) Voted NO on funding student testing instead of private tutors. (May 2001) Voted YES on spending $448B of tax cut on education & debt reduction. (Apr 2001) Voted NO on Educational Savings Accounts. (Mar 2000) Focus educational resources to help those with greatest need. (Jul 2001) Require state standards, regular assessments, and sanctions. (Jul 2001) Support Ed-Flex: more flexibility if more accountable. (Jul 2001) Rated 55% by the NEA, indicating a mixed record on public education. (Dec 2003)

On Energy and Oil:

• Close the SUV loophole and raise mileage standards overall. (Apr 2008)
• ANWR: Let's leave just one place off limits. (Apr 2008)
• Supports spending resources to stop Global Warming. (Sep 2000)
• Voted YES on disallowing an oil leasing program in Alaska's ANWR. (Nov 2005)
• Voted YES on $3.1B for emergency oil assistance for hurricane-hit areas. (Oct 2005)
• Voted YES on reducing oil usage by 40% by 2025 (instead of 5%). (Jun 2005)
• Voted YES on banning drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. (Mar 2005)
• Voted YES on Bush Administration Energy Policy. (Jul 2003)
• Voted YES on targeting 100,000 hydrogen-powered vehicles by 2010. (Jun 2003)
• Voted YES on removing consideration of drilling ANWR from budget bill. (Mar 2003)
• Voted NO on drilling ANWR on national security grounds. (Apr 2002)
• Voted NO on terminating CAFE standards within 15 months. (Mar 2002)
• Voted NO on preserving budget for ANWR oil drilling. (Apr 2000)
• Keep efficient air conditioner rule to conserve energy. (Mar 2004)
• Establish greenhouse gas tradeable allowances. (Feb 2005)
• Letter to Congress supporting renewable energy tax credit. (Nov 2011)
• Supports immediate reductions in greenhouse gases. (Sep 1998)

On The Environment:

• Proper respect for our natural world & vulnerable species. (Jun 2015)
• We believe in environmental stewardship. (Sep 2012)
• Committee vote killed Bush's "Clear Skies" initiative. (Feb 2012)
• 2000: Cleanup abandoned urban brownfields. (Apr 2008)
• Voted YES on including oil & gas smokestacks in mercury regulations. (Sep 2005)
• Voted YES on confirming Gale Norton as Secretary of Interior. (Jan 2001)
• Reduce liability for hazardous waste cleanup. (May 2001)
• Supports grants for brownfields remediation. (May 2002)
• Make EPA into a Cabinet department. (May 2002)
• Rated 79% by the LCV, indicating pro-environment votes. (Dec 2003)
• EPA must do better on mercury clean-up. (Apr 2004)
• Focus on results, not regulation. (Sep 1998) 

On Families and Children:

Rated 50% by the Christian Coalition: mixed voting record on Family Values. (Dec 2003)

On Foreign Policy:

• End prevailing attitude of arrogant reckless war. (Sep 2012)
• Hugo Chavez does not fit into all-good-or-all-bad rhetoric. (Apr 2008)
• War against Islamic extremism hinges on Pakistan. (Apr 2008)
• Castro doesn't want end to Cuban embargo. (Apr 2008)
• Strong supporter of Palestinian-Israeli land-for-peace deal. (Apr 2008)
• Opposes linking Human Rights to trade with China. (Sep 2000)
• Supports continuing Foreign Aid to Russia, Israel, & others. (Sep 2000)
• Voted YES on enlarging NATO to include Eastern Europe. (May 2002)
• Voted YES on killing a bill for trade sanctions if China sells weapons. (Sep 2000) 

On Free-Trade:

• Supports Trans-Pacific Partnership. (Jun 2015)
• Voted YES on implementing CAFTA for Central America free-trade. (Jul 2005)
• Voted YES on establishing free trade between US & Singapore. (Jul 2003)
• Voted YES on establishing free trade between the US and Chile. (Jul 2003)
• Voted YES on extending free trade to Andean nations. (May 2002)
• Voted YES on granting normal trade relations status to Vietnam. (Oct 2001)
• Voted YES on removing common goods from national security export rules. (Sep 2001)
• Voted YES on permanent normal trade relations with China. (Sep 2000)
• Voted YES on expanding trade to the third world. (May 2000)
• Promote the Andean Free Trade Agreement. (May 2002)
• Rated 92% by CATO, indicating a pro-free trade voting record. (Dec 2002)
• Reauthorize the Ex-Im Bank. (Jul 2014) 

On Government Reform:

• Vindicated for opposing Alito, by Alito's bad votes. (Aug 2006)
• Has concerns about Bush's expansion of executive power. (Aug 2006)
• Voted YES on allowing some lobbyist gifts to Congress. (Mar 2006)
• Voted YES on establishing the Senate Office of Public Integrity. (Mar 2006)
• Voted YES on banning "soft money" contributions and restricting issue ads. (Mar 2002)
• Voted YES on require photo ID (not just signature) for voter registration. (Feb 2002)
• Voted YES on banning campaign donations from unions & corporations. (Apr 2001)
• Restrict lobbyist gifts & disclose lobbyist info on Internet. (Dec 2005)
• Reduce federal government size & scope, including military. (Sep 1998) 

On Healthcare:

• Individual mandate ok; universal coverage better. (Jun 2015)
• Watch Mass’ individual mandates as possible national model. (Sep 2006)
• Bipartisanship is the key to reform Medicare. (Aug 2006)
• Support Canadian drug importation that Laffey opposes. (Aug 2006)
• Supports More Federal Funding for Health Coverage. (Sep 2000)
• Voted YES on limiting medical liability lawsuits to $250,000. (May 2006)
• Voted YES on expanding enrollment period for Medicare Part D. (Feb 2006)
• Voted NO on increasing Medicaid rebate for producing generics. (Nov 2005)
• Voted YES on negotiating bulk purchases for Medicare prescription drug. (Mar 2005)
• Voted YES on $40 billion per year for limited Medicare prescription drug benefit. (Jun 2003)
• Voted YES on allowing reimportation of Rx drugs from Canada. (Jul 2002)
• Voted YES on allowing patients to sue HMOs & collect punitive damages. (Jun 2001)
• Voted NO on funding GOP version of Medicare prescription drug benefit. (Apr 2001)
• Voted YES on including prescription drugs under Medicare. (Jun 2000)
• Invest funds to alleviate the nursing shortage. (Apr 2001)
• Tax credits for those without employee health insurance. (May 2002)
• Tax deduction for long-term care insurance. (May 2002)
• Support telemedicine for underserved areas. (May 2002)
• $350 billion for prescriptions for poor seniors. (May 2002)
• Rated 75% by APHA, indicating a pro-public health record. (Dec 2003) 

On Homeland Security:

• Limit government surveillance; no bulk data collection. (Jun 2015)
• Rebuild alliances abroad to fight ISIS. (Jun 2015)
• Know your enemy: Al Qaeda wants US troops away from Mecca. (Apr 2008)
• False WMD fear hurt efforts at nuclear nonproliferation. (Apr 2008)
• Replace unilateral pre-emption with Mideast alliances. (Sep 2006)
• Keep Rhode Island's military installations thriving. (Aug 2006)
• Supports more spending on Armed Forces personnel. (Sep 2000)
• Decrease funding for missile defense. (Jan 2000)
• Voted YES on preserving habeas corpus for Guantanamo detainees. (Sep 2006)
• Voted YES on requiring CIA reports on detainees & interrogation methods. (Sep 2006)
• Voted YES on reauthorizing the PATRIOT Act. (Mar 2006)
• Voted YES on extending the PATRIOT Act's wiretap provision. (Dec 2005)
• Voted NO on restricting business with entities linked to terrorism. (Jul 2005)
• Voted YES on restoring $565M for states' and ports' first responders. (Mar 2005)
• Rated 40% by SANE, indicating a mixed record on military issues. (Dec 2003)
• Prohibit torture of terrorists in US custody. (Jul 2005) 

On Immigration:

• n-state tuition for undocumented immigrants. (Jun 2015)
• Supports legalization path & guest worker programs. (Nov 2010)
• Co-sponsored McCain-Kennedy immigration bill. (Aug 2006)
• Laffey supported then opposed ID cards for illegal aliens. (Aug 2006)
• More programs for legal immigrants. (Jan 2000)
• Voted NO on building a fence along the Mexican border. (Sep 2006)
• Voted YES on establishing a Guest Worker program. (May 2006)
• Voted YES on allowing illegal aliens to participate in Social Security. (May 2006)
• Voted YES on giving Guest Workers a path to citizenship. (May 2006)
• English immersion over bilingual education. (Jul 2001)
• Comprehensive immigration reform without amnesty. (May 2005)
• Sponsored bill covering child resident aliens under Medicaid. (May 2005) 

On Jobs:

• Increase the minimum wage. (Jan 2000)
• Voted YES on raising the minimum wage to $7.25 rather than $6.25. (Mar 2005)
• Voted YES on repealing Clinton's ergonomic rules on repetitive stress. (Mar 2001)
• Rated 31% by the AFL-CIO, indicating an anti-union voting record. (Dec 2003) 

On War and Peace:

• Averse to foreign entanglements, including Iraq. (Jun 2015)
• Until Iraq War, there was lasting peace ahead of us. (Apr 2015)
• Only Republican vote against Iraq War. (Apr 2008)
• Deny future Bin Ladens recruitment propaganda tools. (Apr 2008)
• 2002: War authorization just ratchets up the hatred. (Apr 2008)
• Support a timetable if diplomacy does not work. (Aug 2006)
• Only Republican to vote against Iraq war?but keep Rumsfeld. (Aug 2006)
• Pressure Israel firmly, even when it looks like non-support. (Apr 2006)
• Voted NO on redeploying troops out of Iraq by July 2007. (Jun 2006)
• Voted YES on investigating contract awards in Iraq & Afghanistan. (Nov 2005)
• Voted YES on requiring on-budget funding for Iraq, not emergency funding. (Apr 2005)
• Voted YES on $86 billion for military operations in Iraq & Afghanistan. (Oct 2003)
• Voted NO on authorizing use of military force against Iraq. (Oct 2002)
• Supports $48 billion in new spending for anti-terrorism. (Jan 2002) 

So there you have it!

Last up-
Republican Candidate: John Kasich 

 And no...to pre-empt the question...I will NOT be profiling Joe Biden because:

1.  He hasn't even formally announced he is running.

2. He has been your Vice President for going on 8 years now...so if you don't know where he stands by now...nothing I write here is going to register with you either. Okay?

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 


 
 
 

Rhinovirus...

What they actually look like...

And what feels like has crawled in my nose and is sitting on my chest today...

Yeah...yeah...seven years fighting Cancer...and here I am bitching about a garden variety cold.

Go figure.

I've come to realize that the Rhinovirus is like that mean kid that follows the high-school bully around. So, after he beats the crap out of you, the rhinovirus can kick you while you are laying there in a heap on the ground and echo the last few words the bully said...you know...just to make sure you heard them.  

So Saturday night...when FRED helped me hit-the-wall in a bad way...a great deal self-inflicted since I had not taken my Antivert...for a while...which leads to horrible nausea and vomiting....which led to me not taking my pain medication...which means at 2:00 in the morning my HEAD feels like it is exploding...and causes the added benefit of more nausea and vomiting exacerbating the by now dehydration.

Yeah, I was a mess.

 Saved by Chris and Tina who came (...after a 2:30 AM call...something I swore I would never put my kids through...) But thank goodness they were home and were really wonderful about it. Any girl who can hold your hair/a bag while you are throwing up everything...even the crackers and Sprite they are trying to get down you to stabilize the situation...is beyond daughter-in-law status.  Christopher was quick thinking and realized what had happened and got Antivert down me...went out and got Saltines and Sprite at omigod: hundred hours. Got my pain meds down me. And both of them stayed until the entire ordeal had stabilized. I was pretty much beyond embarrassment at that point, and so very grateful. And they were funny and chatty and even by the end were discussing politics and Boehner's resignation. The Congressman and "Pope Water" and musing if I had just had a sip of said water it would have "probably cured my cancer, anyway".

They really are amazing kids. 

Anyway...there...on that bathroom floor...while laying in an exhausted trembling heap. I know the local Rhinovirus had to be creeping ever closer to kick me in the ribs (or maybe the nose) while I was down.

I know this because Sunday morning, I had survived the prior night, which felt iffy at the time, and was washed out but good. Baked more apple butter and made chicken and dumplings.  Noticed a slight soreness in the back of my throat but attributed it to the evening's heaving. And I had myself pretty convinced until evening when the sneezes came. Then the eyes and the sinus pain...and Monday's congestion.

Finally acknowledged it for what it was...an opportunistic cold virus.

"Couldn't help but notice you were already feeling horrible, mate. Thought I'd hang around a bit."

Bah...

 So here we are, then. Forcing fluids, sleeping, steamy baths and feeding my face.  The brakes put on the Rattlesnake Chili Supper until I can smell/taste again. Avoiding others until I am no longer a seething bag of germs. Alcohol gelling everything.

Stupid rhinovirus. 

I YIELD, okay?

                      More anon....






 

Delivery Time...Rattlesnake...and other Fall Foods

So my last delivery of French Cheeses arrived right on schedule.

However, apparently, the wines are being lovingly SWAM across the Atlantic Ocean one bottle at a time by a geriatric Frenchman. The projected delivery dates being around mid-October.  ~sigh~  Not even taking the cheeses out of the case. Nobody has that much will-power, and I definitely want to sample them with authentic French wine.

Yeah yeah...as my Middle Son would say

"Such a First World Problem, Mom" 

Anyway...this morning like an early Christmas around here with parcel post.

Remember when you were younger...and you saw something you just HAD to have...but it was not to be. Such were Avon's Solar Magic Earrings in the 90's for me. A pair of golden Maple leaf earrings that touted that when worn in the sunlight would change to Autumnal Hues before your very eyes...

oooohhh....ahhhhh

Okay- maybe it was just me.

They also carried a broach that did much the same.

So imagine my surprise on eBay when I was perusing earrings for Fall to find a pair of these

of course there was that momentary twinge when I noted that my coveted earrings (...which I had honestly forgotten all about...) were classified as Vintage.  

VINTAGE?

(Okay, I am not OLD...I'm definitely Vintage...)

So a couple of mouse-clicks and voila...

And, of course, the day is decidedly overcast...but the next time the sun is shining I will be sitting in it watching for Fall Colours! A wonderful bit of kitsch.


About the Rattlesnake. 

It arrived today, as well.

Background:

This is one of those crazy Bucket (Life) List things.   Just nod and smile. It's okay. The eldest son and I have kind of made a lifetime culinary sport of this.

Son:  "Yeah Mom...but have you tried Octopus?"  (as he was having some he phoned me from a restaurant...honestly)


Me:   "With or without Marinara?"

So anyway...one of the things I have always wanted to try was Rattlesnake. I even have this great recipe from Texas for Rattlesnake Chili.  But first, I just want to taste the real deal. Au Naturale.  Since James is my partner in culinary crime, and because Nicole is fearless and will try anything...well today THIS arrived:

Admittedly, taken aback for a moment when I read the sticker.

Noting an earlier in the month conversation with my friend, Hector, who has indeed eaten Rattlesnake and advised me that there are about 10 million little bones and it

"...tastes a lot like chicken.."

To which James quipped when I shared this news,

"Doesn't EVERYTHING?"

Hey...what if we are wrong. What if chicken tastes just like Rattlesnake?

Anyway...there is a tin of Rattlesnake in the cabinet.

Be afraid. 
Be very afraid.

Yes, I am aware that a true adventurer would have hunted down a side-winder...killed it with one shot and roasted it over an open camp-fire (probably built of mesquite brush) on the wide prairie. Then hung the rattle on a braided leather cord around his/her neck. Those days are behind me.  I found it killed, beheaded, cleaned, cooked and tinned on Amazon...M'kay?

And for the record...eBay actually does sell leather corded rattlesnake rattler necklaces.  Who knew?

When the kids are over for the actual tasting and subsequent chili making I'll do a pictorial. 

Focusing on Fall Foods today.

 A friend of mine brought me a bag of apples from the Orchard and have been busy paring and buttering and adding raw sugar and spices and the whole batch is slow baking in the oven for home-made Baked Apple Butter. Thanks to Marti, and her Mother's Roaster story; I ditched the crock-pot approach to try baking mine, too.

The house smells incredible. 

Fall...my very favourite season!


More anon...

Nicole and Aiden

Republican Candidate: Carly Fiorina

Carly Fiorina is an American Republican politician and former business executive who currently chairs the non-profit philanthropic organization Good360.She is married and currently seeking the primary nomination for President of the United States in 2016.

On The Issues:

Conservative

On Abortion:

• Ban abortions 20 weeks after fertilization. (May 2015)
• Liberals believe in protecting flies, but not human life. (Jan 2015)
• Endorsed as pro-life, fiscal conservative "Mama Grizzly". (Nov 2010)
• Exceptions for rape, incest, and maternal endangerment. (Oct 2010)
• Overturn the Supreme Court ruling that legalized abortion. (Sep 2010)
• Embryonic stem cell research ok if not created for purpose. (Sep 2010)
• Sanctity of life, except in the case of rape and incest. (Jun 2010)
• Opposes both federal abortion funding & judicial activism. (Aug 2010)
• Opposes prohibiting human embryonic stem cell research. (Aug 2010)
• Supports giving legal protection to unborn children. (Sep 2010) 

On The Economy:

• Stimulus package is a failure; more tax cuts instead. (Oct 2010)
• Key to recovery is less government, taxation, & regulation. (Sep 2010)
• Opposes the stimulus bill. (Sep 2010) 

On Social Security:

No issue stance yet recorded by OnTheIssues.org.

On Civil Rights:

• Supreme Court overstepped by legalizing same-sex marriage. (May 2015)
• I don't just Tweet about equal pay; I lead on pay standards. (Feb 2015)
• Women professionals are not treated the same as men. (May 2014)
• Marriage is between a man and a woman; but civil unions ok. (Sep 2010)
• No same-sex marriage; yes civil unions; repeal DADT. (Sep 2010)
• Proud conservative vote for Proposition 8. (Nov 2009)
• 1976: Worked with monogamous gay couples in college. (Sep 2007)
• Hired by AT&T after court ordered them to promote more women. (Sep 2007)
• Supports Amendment to prevent same sex marriage. (Aug 2010)
• Opposes Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA). (Sep 2010) 

On Gun Control:

• Strong supporter of Second Amendment gun rights. (May 2015)
• Opposed 1994 assault weapon ban; opposes no-fly list gun ban. (Oct 2010)
• Let people on no-fly list purchase guns; it's poorly managed. (Oct 2010)
• Assault weapon ban is arbitrary about which weapons qualify. (Sep 2010)
• No-fly list is mismanaged; don't bar gun sales based on it. (Jun 2010)
• Opposes restrictions on the right to bear arms. (Aug 2010)
• Rated AQ by the NRA, indicating a pro-gun rights voting record. (Aug 2010) 

On Drugs:

Drug addiction is an epidemic that takes our young people. (Sep 2015)  
 
 On Education:

• Supports No Child Left Behind & Race to the Top. (May 2015)
• Make sure that every parent has a choice. (Mar 2015)
• Synthesis of public school system and competitive vouchers. (Mar 2015)
• Education crisis:we're behind on teaching skills & character. (Mar 2015)
• Dropped out of UCLA Law School at age 22. (Sep 2007)
• To truly understand something, explain it to someone else. (Sep 2007)
• Supports less federal & more local control of education. (Sep 2010) 

On Energy and Oil:

• No gas tax increase; lower gas prices good for recovery. (May 2015)
• Pass the Keystone Pipeline even if Obama vetoes it. (Nov 2014)
• Examine the science; US can't act alone on global warming. (Sep 2010)
• Use every source, including nuclear and clean coal. (Dec 2009)
• Supports renewable energy tax credits. (Aug 2010)
• Opposes passage of Cap-and-Trade energy legislation. (Sep 2010) 

On The Environment:

• OpEd: Weaken the EPA. (Aug 2010)
• Endorsed Targeted as "Dirty Dozen" for anti-environmentalism. (Aug 2010) 

On Families and Children:

Marriage no longer worked after she became husband's peer. (Sep 2007)  
 
On Foreign Policy:

• Rebuild 6th fleet instead of talking to Putin. (Sep 2015)
• No Iran nuke deal unless we can inspect. (Sep 2015)
• I know more world leaders than any candidate except Hillary. (Aug 2015)
• Our allies need specific help to defeat ISIS. (Jun 2015)
• I know the leaders of the Mideast; Obama & Hillary do not. (Feb 2015)
• Advised CIA on Russian affairs after 2007. (Feb 2015)
• I've accomplished something by traveling around the world. (Jan 2015)
• Lack of American leadership causes world trouble. (Jul 2014)
• No deal with Russia nor Iran on nuclear cooperation. (Jun 2010)
• Attended grade school in U.S., England, and Africa. (Sep 2007)
• In Africa, experienced being only white person in the room. (Sep 2007)
• 1977: Taught English to Italian businessmen in Bologna. (Sep 2007)
• Traveled extensively to learn international opportunities. (Sep 2007) 

On Free-Trade:

Change rules about outsourcing; current climate forces it. (Nov 2009)  

On Government Reform:

• Zero-based budgeting, and civil service pay-for-performance. (Mar 2015)
• Hillary shouldn't accept foreign money in her PAC. (Feb 2015)
• Abolish earmarks; limit federal salaries. (Sep 2010)
• American dream is perishable, if government keeps growing. (Mar 2010)
• In a complex organization, change takes time. (Sep 2007)
• Change is not bad; change is necessary. (Sep 2007) 

On Healthcare:

• We get warnings about terrorism, but we must connect dots. (Aug 2015)
• Arm the Kurds against ISIS. (May 2015)
• Don't pull punches on Benghazi: a tragedy and a scandal. (Mar 2015)
• On Benghazi: I'm familiar with America's allies and enemies. (Jan 2015)
• Keep Gitmo; don't try foreign terrorists in civilian court. (Sep 2010)
• Campaign donations from jihadists should be returned. (Mar 2010)
• Guantanamo Bay isn't broken, so don't fix it. (Mar 2010)
• Opposes banning homosexuals in the military. (Aug 2010) 

On Homeland Security:

• We get warnings about terrorism, but we must connect dots. (Aug 2015)
• Arm the Kurds against ISIS. (May 2015)
• Don't pull punches on Benghazi: a tragedy and a scandal. (Mar 2015)
• On Benghazi: I'm familiar with America's allies and enemies. (Jan 2015)
• Keep Gitmo; don't try foreign terrorists in civilian court. (Sep 2010)
• Campaign donations from jihadists should be returned. (Mar 2010)
• Guantanamo Bay isn't broken, so don't fix it. (Mar 2010)
• Opposes banning homosexuals in the military. (Aug 2010) 

On Immigration:

• People tired of just talking about immigration for 25 years. (Sep 2015)
• Pass immigration reform in a series of bills. (Nov 2014)
• No comprehensive reform; but yes to DREAM Act. (Sep 2010)
• Support the Arizona law because feds are not doing their job. (Jun 2010)
• Opposes continued funding of sanctuary cities. (Sep 2010)
• Opposes granting amnesty to illegal immigrants. (Sep 2010) 

On Jobs:

Layoffs in recession ensure company's overall health. (Mar 2015)

On War and Peace:

• Ok to deal with Iran, but with anytime/anywhere inspections. (Aug 2015)
• Provide materiel to Jordan, & intel to Egypt, to fight ISIL. (Aug 2015)
• Break off Iran nuclear negotiations; keep sanctions. (May 2015)
• Impose crippling sanctions on Iran. (Jun 2010)
• Impose crippling sanctions against Iran. (Mar 2010)
• Impose sanctions on Iran: no refined petroleum imports. (Mar 2010)
• Two-state solution with Jerusalem as undivided capital. (Mar 2010)
• Opposes timetable for troop withdrawal from Afghanistan. (Sep 2010) 

So that is it, then.

Next up:  Democratic Candidate: Lincoln Chaffee 

 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Republican Candidate: Ben Carson

Benjamin Solomon "Ben" Carson, Sr. is an American author, politician, and retired Johns Hopkins neurosurgeon. Ben is married and currently seeking the nomination for 2016 President of the United States.

On the Issues:

Conservative

On Abortion:

• Ban abortion more than 20 weeks after fertilization. (May 2015)
• No abortion for convenience. (Jan 2014)
• The thought of abortion for convenience is repugnant. (Jan 2014)
• Persuaded mother of hydrocephalic baby to cancel abortion. (Jan 2012) 

On The Economy:

• Let the economy work the way it's supposed to. (Jan 2014)
• The free market works. (Jan 2014)
• 1990s deregulation paved way for 2008 economic meltdown. (Jan 2012)
• Cut every agency spending by 10%, with no exceptions. (Jan 2012) 

On Social Security:

No issue stance yet recorded by OnTheIssues.org.

On Civil Rights:

Homosexuality is a choice, but same-sex marriage is the law. (May 2015) Give gays rights, but not marriage, because it's a choice. (Mar 2015) Don't let the PC police label conservatives as extremists. (Feb 2015) Underdog status is not determined any longer by race. (Feb 2014) Underdog status is no longer determined by race. (Feb 2014) Apologized for likening homosexuality to pedophilia. (Mar 2013) Marriage should not be extended to same-sex couples. (Mar 2013) 1960s: experienced racism in inner-city Boston and Detroit. (Jan 2012) Reparations for WWII Japanese ok, but not for slavery. (Jan 2012) Not all black candidates share Obama's left-wing politics. (Jan 2012) Redefining marriage is slippery slope with disastrous ending. (Jan 2012) Legal binding relationship for gays to enjoy property rights. (Jan 2012) Free speech is wonderful, but hate speech causes actual harm. (Jan 2012)  On Gun Control: Law-abiding citizens have right to guns without registration. (Mar 2014) Extremely pro-2nd Amendment; never let anyone tamper with it. (Feb 2014) Semi-automatic weapons ok in countryside, but not cities. (Mar 2013)  On Drugs: Marijuana for medical use, but not for recreational use. (Jan 2014) Religion kept me away from 1960s sex and drugs. (Jan 2012) Reducing blood alcohol limit to .02 reduces drunk driving. (Jan 2012)  On Education: Our public education system has become a propaganda system. (May 2015) Private schooling better than Common Core public schooling. (Feb 2015) When you educate a man, you liberate a man. (May 2014) College grads today fail a 6th-grade test from the 1800s. (May 2014) School choice increases competitive nature of education. (Apr 2013) Education worked for me; don't throw young people away. (Mar 2013) Evolution and creationism both require faith. (May 2012) Creationists have God's ethics; evolutionists must find them. (May 2012) As child, mother required written book reports. (Jan 2012) Southern slaveowners knew education would empower slaves. (Jan 2012) Maintaining American pinnacle requires math, not athletics. (Jan 2012) Carson Scholars Fund: for humanitarian & superior academics. (Jan 2012) THINK BIG: Talent, Honesty, Insight, Nice, Knowledge.God. (Jan 2012) Carson Reading Rooms: 4,800 scholarships totaling $2 million. (Jan 2012)  On Energy and Oil: Climate debate is distracting and irrelevant. (May 2015) Petroleum independence would deprive terrorists of funding. (Jan 2012) Intelligently tap our own resources offshore & in Alaska. (Jan 2012)  On The Environment: Native Americans casinos are justified, but not beneficial. (Jan 2012) Protecting environment logical for capitalists & socialists. (Jan 2012)  On Families and Children: No issue stance yet recorded by OnTheIssues.org. On Foreign Policy: Back Israel and follow what Netanyahu wants on Iran. (May 2015) Don't just sit around waiting to see what other people do. (Feb 2015) America on same bad path as ancient Rome, but we can fix it. (May 2014) US is exceptional, with different values than rest of world. (May 2014) Rome's decline began with immoral lifestyle; like in America. (Jan 2012) Freedom is why people come from Cuba to US, not vice versa. (Jan 2012) US poverty pales compared to billions in India & Africa. (Jan 2012) On Free Trade: Stop severe trade imbalance via stiff tariffs. (Jan 2012) Stop severe trade imbalance. (Jan 2012)  On Government Reform: Covertly spy on government workers to make them work harder. (Jun 2015) 5-year federal hiring freeze, to decrease size of government. (Jan 2015) Human nature makes giving up power difficult. (Jan 2012) Too many lawyers in government; get more doctors in. (Jan 2012) Lengthen House term to 6-10 years, with no re-election. (Jan 2012) Bloated government keeps itself busy to justify existence. (Jan 2012)  On Healthcare: Obamacare is about restriction and control. (Feb 2015) Vaccines are extremely important, despite individual rights. (Feb 2015) Spokesperson for Mannatech nutrition supplement for 10 years. (Jan 2015) ObamaCare robs you of your ability to control your own life. (May 2014) ObamaCare is the worst thing since slavery. (Oct 2013) Health savings account from birth; teach poor responsibility. (Feb 2013) Fund HSAs for indigent from collected HSAs of the rest of us. (Feb 2013) Two-tiered system ok as long as care is adequate. (Jan 2012) Saudi Arabian solution: stiff penalties for medical fraud. (Jan 2012) Regulate insurance companies as non-profit services. (Jan 2012) Government responsibility for catastrophic coverage. (Jan 2012) Let paralyzed quadriplegics choose to die if they wish it. (Jan 2012) Suffered research cancer injection and prostate cancer. (Dec 2007)  On Homeland Security: Don't tie military's hands in terrorism fight, even torture. (Aug 2015) Our armed forces are at smallest size in decades. (Aug 2015) ISIL is clear threat; aggressively commit to its destruction. (Jun 2015) Shia-led Iran is more dangerous than ISIL. (May 2015) Give the military the tools they need to meet our needs. (Feb 2014) Roman Empire fell because military was stretched too thin. (Jan 2012) Ethical world leadership stops bullies with brutal force. (Jan 2012) Confront radical violent elements of all religions. (Jan 2012)  On Immigration: Moral low road to use cheap labor if no path to citizenship. (Feb 2015) Pathway to citizenship unfair to past & current immigrants. (Feb 2015) Use Canadian model for guest worker program. (Jan 2015) Common-sense solutions: guest workers plus harsher penalties. (Jan 2015) Overwhelming majority want the southern border secured. (Jan 2012) Deportation is moral low road; create guest worker program. (Jan 2012)  On Jobs: College job: supervised highway clean-up crews. (Jan 2012) Unions bad when they focus on power & not future generations. (Jan 2012)  On War and Peace: Untie the military's hands; let them destroy ISIS. (May 2015) Tyranny follows if we disarm nukes & madmen get them. (Jan 2012) No right to assume that our way was right for 1960s Vietnam. (Jan 2012) Morality of war in Iraq was highly debatable. (Jan 2012) Better response than post-9-11 invasions: oil independence. (Jan 2012)  There you have it. Next up: Republican Candidate: Carly Fiorina

  

And for those of you who are sighing 

 "Dear God...it it over yet...just how MANY candidates are there???" 


Trust me...I am THERE.

Just a few more.

And recently in...both (R) Rick Perry and (R) Scott Walker have withdrawl from the race. 

Bear with me...we will get through this. 

 

 
 

A Cup of "Are You Effing Kidding Me????" - Reflections on Life

They have been having trouble recently in my little town with our water mains. For several days we have been under a Water Boil Alert.

For the record...this is not the reason for my rant.

Water Boil is (at best) one of those inconveniences that us First World Denizens only notice when it becomes one.

Which was the catalyst for this rant....and several to follow, unfortunately.

You see, on one of the same days we were advised that we needed to take the boil precaution I overheard a couple talking about the "damned guv'mint" in their lives...and how much BETTER OFF we would all be if they dismantled the FDA and EPA.

(...here it goes, people...)

"Are you EFFING kidding me?????????????"

As a Nation a lot of us have become such spoiled, pathetic, entitled, brats that we take for granted WHY we can turn on the tap and have an endless supply of safe, clear, drinking water. And we take for granted the agencies that watchdog this for us as well. So that WHEN chlorine levels drop or contaminates are noted or water lines are open...we are alerted to Boil Orders.  And make no mistake...you STILL have the constitutionally protected right to be as stupid as you want to be. You can ignore the Boil Order. Nobody is jack-booting inside your house and making sure you actually do take these precautions. Feel free to spend as much time in the bathroom or ER as you like.

I, for one, am extremely happy that we have agencies in place to make sure our water is potable. That our food isn't contaminated...and if/when it is...that it is pulled from our shelves and we are told about it. That our prescription and OTC drugs are tested and safe.

(sarcasm font)   Yes...those EPA and FDA are a scheming lot, aren't they?


But wait...there is more...

Two men discussing Presidential Candidate Bernie Sanders exclaiming

"Yeah...the man is crazy. Damned Socialist. Telling people that they can have FREE STUFF. That is all "those people" care about. Getting stuff for free and not having to work for it. That doesn't work."

"ARE YOU EFFING KIDDING ME?"

First of all- those people?

SERIOUSLY???

You mean like the REST of us tax-paying citizens? Those of us who would rather our taxes be spent on frivolous shit like OUR healthcare and OUR infrastructure and generally the betterment of OUR lives?

Instead of another Congressional Junket where several members are snorting cocaine off a Brazilian Hooker's Ass.

 Those people?  

And you only have to look at the amount they take from your check in taxes every week to see that NOBODY is asking for FREE STUFF, okay?

And the whole- That Doesn't Work

When applied to Healthcare or College and such.

Well...let's not share that news with the UK, or Canada or Sweden, or Finland, or Norway...France or Germany...or any of the other Countries around the Globe that have been living this way happily and successfully for a long long time.

We will keep it your little secret, m'kay? 

And "The Stupid" isn't limited to political situations either...in fact some of it has been precariously close-to-home. 

I give you the Ultimate Catch 22.

MOM: "I am NEVER going to let him see his kids again"

SAME MOM LATER:  "You Piece of SHIT...You NEVER spent time with your kids! "


"ARE YOU EFFING KIDDING ME?" 

And this works well alongside


Unemployed Dad (through no fault of his own) =  Goddamned Deadbeat Dad.

Same Employed Dad Who Gets His Child Support Caught Up  (who has to work on the day of a school function)= You Piece of Shit...You just don't CARE.

(and making sure to tell her children how much their father doesn't care)

WTF? 

Sensing that "can't win...draw...or break even" groove here?

Woman parsing their small children out as though they are tiny little packages they own. Destroying their children's mental health and feelings of love and security because of their own overwhelming anger, immaturity, or sense of entitlement.

Good luck with that by the time they are teenagers, okay? 
Miz Cleo predicts it will bite you in the ass in a big way. 

And it should. 

 So anyway, it seems "the stupid" has been unusually strong this week.
Going to meditate and find Center again.

 I seem to have lost my Zen momentarily. 

 

Ah...there it is...

Chateaux de la Loire...or ABC (...another bloody castle...)

What to do while you are waiting for the REAL wine and cheese to arrive on  a Virtual Tour of Loire.

A Mini-Tour of the Castles of course.

And you can, too..

https://youtu.be/EDfWLui5Xhg

Some of the finest castles along the banks of the Loire River. The longest river in France. 

Or as the English might say 

"ABC...another bloody castle..."

A wonderful way to spend an afternoon...and the video tour above is from the air and spectacular!

The wine and cheese...promised to arrive before the coming weekend!

Until then...

Republican Candidate: Marco Rubio

Marco Antonio Rubio is the junior United States Senator from Florida, serving since January 2011. He is married with four children, and currently a candidate for President of the United States.

On The Issues:

Conservative

On Abortion:

• Consensus that life begins at conception; so no abortion. (May 2014)
• I believe in protecting life but I'm not a chauvinist. (Mar 2013)
• Pro-life, but understands that woman's right is the law. (Jun 2012)
• Expand birth control exemption for faith-based organizations. (Jun 2012)
• Opposed Sotomayor nomination based on her Roe support. (Jun 2012)
• No right to privacy, that resulted in the Roe v. Wade. (Feb 2010)
• Require ultrasounds before performing abortions. (Feb 2010)
• Voted against funding stem cell research. (Apr 2006)
• Opposes both federal abortion funding & judicial activism. (Aug 2010)
• Supports prohibiting human embryonic stem cell research. (Aug 2010)
• Supports giving legal protection to unborn children. (Sep 2010)
• Prohibit federal funding for abortion. (May 2011) 

On The Economy:

• Tax, borrow, & spend is not the way out of the recession. (Feb 2013)
• Real problem is $1T deficit each year since 2009. (Feb 2013)
• Oppose Obama stimulus package; it's bad for America. (Mar 2010)
• Support balanced budget amendment and line-item veto. (Feb 2010)
• Demand a Balanced Budget amendment. (Jul 2010)
• Limit federal spending growth to per-capita inflation rate. (Jul 2010)
• Supports the Cut-Cap-and-Balance Pledge. (Jan 2012)
• Disapprove of increasing the debt limit. (Jan 2012)
• Audit the Federal Reserve & its actions on mortgage loans. (Feb 2013) 

On Social Security:

• Benefits have to be less generous to save Social Security. (Jun 2012)
• Raise retirement age for those now under 55. (Apr 2010)
• Tough choices include raising retirement age & reducing COLA. (Mar 2010)
• Hard choices for people under 40, to avoid runaway growth. (Mar 2010)
• Keep raising the retirement age on the table. (Mar 2010)
• Keep cost-of-living adjustment on the table. (Mar 2010)
• Rated 7% by ARA, indicating a pro-privatization stance. (Jan 2013) 

On Civil Rights:

• Opposes Paycheck Fairness: don't require equal pay for women. (Apr 2014)
• Balance gay anti-discrimination with religious rights. (Mar 2014)
• Defining marriage does not demean a class of people. (Jun 2013)
• I believe in historical marriage, but ok if states redefine. (Jun 2013)
• Leave gay marriage to states, but keep DOMA. (Mar 2013)
• Voted NO on reauthorizing the Violence Against Women Act. (Feb 2013)
• Supports Amendment to prevent same sex marriage. (Aug 2010)
• Opposes Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA). (Sep 2010) 

On Gun Control:

• New gun laws are ineffective, so don't pass them. (Apr 2013)
• Has a concealed weapon permit, but does not carry a weapon. (Apr 2013)
• Deal with gun violence, but do it constitutionally. (Feb 2013)
• As Speaker, failed to push law allowing guns at work. (Jun 2012)
• 2nd Amendment is a cornerstone of our democracy. (Feb 2010)
• Voted NO on banning high-capacity magazines of over 10 bullets. (Apr 2013)
• Opposes restrictions on the right to bear arms. (Aug 2010)
• Rated B+ by the NRA, indicating a pro-gun rights voting record. (Aug 2010)
• Oppose the United Nations' Arms Trade Treaty. (Sep 2013) 

On Drugs:

• There is no responsible way to recreationally use marijuana. (May 2014)
• Enforce federal laws even where states have legalized pot. (May 2014)
• No responsible way to recreationally use marijuana. (May 2014)
• Enforce federal law even in states with legal pot. (May 2014)
• 1987: Brother-in-law imprisoned for drug conviction. (Jun 2012)
• 1986 brother-in-law's drug bust unexamined until 2011. (Jun 2012)
• Brother-in-law's trial prosecuted by House member's spouse. (Jun 2012)
• Teach students skills to avoid gangs, violence, & drugs. (Nov 2006) 

On Education:

• Private lenders get percentage of student's income. (Feb 2015)
• Professor of political science at Florida International U. (Feb 2015)
• Outdated educational systems must be updated to meet needs. (Jan 2015)
• The poor benefit most from parental choice in education. (Jan 2015)
• Turn over Head Start to states. (Jan 2014)
• Give parents chance to send kids to school of their choice. (Feb 2013)
• Give info to students on costs & benefits of student loans. (Feb 2013)
• Became serious college student after football injury. (Jun 2012)
• 1999: Pushed for early education for at-risk children. (Jun 2012)
• Silent on voluntary school prayer. (Jun 2012)
• Presided over $2.3B cut to Florida public education. (Jun 2012)
• Supports No-Child-Left-Behind Opportunity Scholarships. (Nov 2010)
• Voted for more scholarships for private schools. (Apr 2007)
• Incentivize foreign language curriculum in elementary school. (Nov 2006)
• Prepare students for the Global Marketplace. (Nov 2006)
• More options for student and parent choice in education. (Nov 2006)
• Integrate competition principles into education marketplace. (Nov 2006)
• A+ Plan for Education: charters and choice. (Nov 2006)
• 2+2 System: AA degree guarantees admission to university. (Nov 2006)
• $4,500 voucher saves state $10,000 in per-student cost. (Nov 2006)
• Private partnerships for provision of school services. (Nov 2006)
• Supports less federal & more local control of education. (Sep 2010) 

On Energy and Oil:

• Climate is always changing; it's not from human activity. (May 2014)
• Human activity is not causing climate change. (May 2014)
• Our government can't control the weather. (Feb 2013)
• Grow our energy industry, not "clean energy" like Solyndra. (Feb 2013)
• I dislike cap-&-trade, but it is inevitable as national law. (Jun 2012)
• Cap-and-trade scheme destroys jobs. (Feb 2010)
• Explore ANWR & outer continental shelf. (Feb 2010)
• Tax incentives for energy-efficient appliances. (Nov 2006)
• Loans to public institutions for energy efficiency. (Nov 2006)
• Florida has obvious advantages in solar energy. (Nov 2006)
• Let hybrid drivers use HOV lanes & discount parking. (Nov 2006)
• Voted YES on barring EPA from regulating greenhouse gases. (Apr 2011)
• Signed the No Climate Tax Pledge by AFP. (Nov 2010)
• Cap-and-trade has no impact on global temperatures. (Jul 2010)
• Explore proven energy reserves & keep energy prices low. (Jul 2010)
• Opposes passage of Cap-and-Trade energy legislation. (Sep 2010)
• Let states lease energy rights on federal lands. (Jun 2013) 

On The Environment:

• Fix environment with free market, not government mandates. (Feb 2014)
• State-run insurance carriers mean more taxpayer subsidies. (Jun 2012)
• Partner with private companies for transportation system. (Nov 2006)
• Hurricane Savings Accounts for homeowners' insurance. (Nov 2006)
• Utilize toll revenues to widen & improve expressways. (Nov 2006)
• Increase funding for making homes hurricane-resistant. (Nov 2006)
• Voted NO on protecting ocean, coastal, and Great Lakes ecosystems. (May 2013)
• Rated 20% by HSLF, indicating an anti-animal welfare voting record. (Jan 2012)
• No EPA permits required for forest road runoff. (Jul 2013) 

On Families and Children:

• The "success sequence"--education and kids after marriage. (Jan 2015)
• Answers lie with family and our faith, not politicians. (Feb 2013)
• Better life means your kids accomplish what you never could. (Aug 2012)
• Elian Gonzalez should stay in US & father should join him. (Jun 2012)
• Even single mothers see their hopes & dreams in firstborn. (Jun 2012)
• Improve state-provided services for kids with disabilities. (Jun 2012)
• Hip-hop fan; "Ignore their politics & just enjoy the music". (Jun 2012)
• No gay couples as foster parents; no social experimentation. (Jun 2012)
• We need a long-term commitment to Afghanistan. (Apr 2012)
• Parental notification for social networking website use. (Nov 2006)
• Halt illegal activities at strip clubs & porn websites. (Nov 2006)
• Increase $20M in tax credits for G-rated and PG-rated films. (Nov 2006) 

On Foreign Policy:

• We've neglected Latin American democracies & our alliances. (Apr 2015)
• I have a clear strategic vision of America's role in world. (Feb 2015)
• Obama has no ISIS policy to avoid upsetting Iran. (Feb 2015)
• North Korea is a criminal syndicate, not a government. (Dec 2014)
• Our policy should lead to more liberty for the Cuban people. (Dec 2014)
• Cuba must improve on human rights for engagement to continue. (Dec 2014)
• Engagement with Vietnam & China has not led to freedom. (Dec 2014)
• Cuba embargo was designed to protect American companies. (Dec 2014)
• Provide more assistance to Jordan, to prepare against ISIS. (Jun 2014)
• Stay involved against ISIS or Iran becomes regional hegemon. (Jun 2014)
• Press freedom is a universal human right, especially in Cuba. (May 2014)
• Tough sanctions against Russia for Ukraine aggression. (May 2014)
• Only America can stand up to world totalitarianism. (Mar 2014)
• Putin wants to reconstitute Russian power & Russian prestige. (Mar 2014)
• The Russian government is a government of liars. (Mar 2014)
• The China Dream is to surpass America as world leader. (Mar 2013)
• Build relations with Mexico for trade & oil, not just border. (Nov 2012)
• Che Guevara reviled by Cuban exiles; I want no association. (Jun 2012)
• America is exceptional: nation blessed by God with resources. (Jun 2012)
• Prefer coalitions but don't over-rely on global institutions. (Apr 2012)
• America needs a foreign policy of engaging abroad. (Apr 2012)
• Military action should be on the table in Iran & Syria. (Apr 2012)
• Promote democracy via engagement abroad. (Sep 2011)
• Foreign aid spreads positive influence around the world. (Sep 2011)
• Rated -2 by AAI, indicating a anti-Arab anti-Palestine voting record. (May 2012)
• Vigorous support for State of Israel against Hamas in Gaza. (Nov 2012)
• Sponsored funding and supplying the Syrian rebels. (Mar 2013) 

On Free-Trade:

• Develop policies that embrace reality of globalization. (Jan 2015)
• Trade with Cuba won't translate into political freedom. (Dec 2014)
• Continue reducing barriers to free and fair trade. (Aug 2010) 

On Government Reform:

• Conservatives must show they have real solutions to poverty. (Jan 2015)
• Government has a role, but it is not giving poor money. (Jan 2015)
• More government breeds complicated rules & holds us back. (Feb 2013)
• Choose more freedom instead of more government. (Aug 2012)
• Accused of using campaign funds for personal expenses. (Jun 2012)
• Used earmarks early in legislative career, then stopped cold. (Jun 2012)
• 2003: Anonymous contributors; 2004: backed down & disclosed. (Jun 2012)
• $400,000 for Members-only House lunchroom kept out lobbyists. (Jun 2012)
• Constitutional term limit amendment for Members of Congress. (Feb 2012)
• America is greatest country; but not our government. (Jan 2012)
• Reduce paid petition business in citizen initiative process. (Nov 2006)
• Texas Sunset Review abolished 47 agencies; do same in FL. (Nov 2006)
• Early FL primary forces diversity into presidential process. (Nov 2006)
• Closer regulation of petition verification process. (Nov 2006)
• Allow transferring surplus campaign funds to other campaigns. (May 2006)
• Identify constitutionality in every new congressional bill. (Jul 2010)
• Audit federal agencies, to reform or eliminate them. (Jul 2010)
• Moratorium on all earmarks until budget is balanced. (Jul 2010)
• Ban stock trading based on Congressional insider knowledge. (Nov 2011)
• Prohibit IRS audits targeting Tea Party political groups. (Feb 2014) 

On Healthcare:

• All kids should get vaccinated, with medical exceptions. (Feb 2015)
• ObamaCare stifles entrepreneurship with regulation. (Jan 2015)
• World Health Organization can't combat Ebola; only US can. (Oct 2014)
• Ban visas from Ebola-stricken countries; target the source. (Oct 2014)
• Medicaid expansion fails because funded only for a few years. (Jan 2014)
• FactCheck: ObamaCare is not now forcing loss of insurance. (Feb 2013)
• Expand mental health centers; address violence at its source. (Feb 2013)
• Backed out of Race for the Cure over abortion funding fight. (Sep 2012)
• Medicare's hospice care let my father die with dignity. (Jun 2012)
• Expand prescription benefits to low-income seniors. (Jun 2012)
• Provide alternatives to employer-based insurance system. (Mar 2010)
• Launch a marketplace of affordable health insurance. (Nov 2006)
• Capitated managed-care systems achieve better value. (Nov 2006)
• Voted YES on the Ryan Budget: Medicare choice, tax & spending cuts. (May 2011)
• Opposes government-run healthcare. (Aug 2010)
• Defund, repeal, & replace federal care with free market. (Jul 2010)
• Repeal any federal health care takeover. (Jul 2010) 

On Homeland Secuity:

• Defense spending is most important federal obligation. (Mar 2015)
• Modernize military to be used 10 years in the future. (Mar 2015)
• We need coherent interrogation policy, & keep it classified. (Dec 2014)
• We need NSA intel to fight emerging terrorist threats. (Nov 2014)
• Increased military investment demonstrates leadership. (Sep 2014)
• ISIL's goal is to drive us out of the region. (Sep 2014)
• ISIL is a threat because many members have US passports. (Sep 2014)
• ISIS is a more serious threat than al Qaeda. (Jun 2014)
• No one has been held accountable for Benghazi. (May 2014)
• World is a better place when America is the strongest nation. (Feb 2013)
• 9/11 about people who hate what America stands for. (Sep 2012)
• Safer place when America is strongest country in the world. (Aug 2010)
• No greater risk than radical Islamic terrorists. (Aug 2010)
• Islamic terrorists want to impose their view of the world. (Feb 2010)
• No evidence to change policy of don't ask, don't tell. (Feb 2010)
• Voted YES on extending the PATRIOT Act's roving wiretaps. (Feb 2011)
• Supports banning homosexuals in the military. (Aug 2010)
• Sponsored opposing the United Nations Arms Trade Treaty. (Mar 2013) 

On Immigration:

• Deal with border & future immigrants BEFORE any amnesty. (Feb 2015)
• Modernize immigration to win global competition for talent. (Sep 2014)
• Human trafficking law & deferred action caused border crisis. (Aug 2014)
• FactCheck: No MarcoPhones, and no executive DREAMers either. (Apr 2014)
• Give kids of illegal immigrants in-state tuition rates. (Jan 2014)
• Border control: 90% apprehension and 100% surveillance. (Apr 2013)
• Not amnesty: 15-year wait, plus fee, minus federal benefits. (Apr 2013)
• Green cards after 10 years; secure border; & e-Verify. (Apr 2013)
• Compare reform to existing situation of 11 million illegals. (Apr 2013)
• Immigration is a human issue AND a law & order issue. (Mar 2013)
• Leave immigration to feds; 50 sets of laws is worse. (Jun 2012)
• English is de facto official language; let's recognize that. (Jun 2012)
• AZ anti-immigrant law demands papers like "police state". (Jun 2012)
• OpEd: Claimed falsely that parents fled Castro in 1959. (Jun 2012)
• Legal status, but not citizenship, to migrant's children. (Jun 2012)
• GOP DREAM Act: visas for going to college or military. (Apr 2012)
• AZ law may unreasonably single out some citizens. (Apr 2010)
• Don't count illegal immigrants in the 2010 census. (Apr 2010)
• Allow children of illegals to pay in-state college tuition. (Mar 2010)
• No amnesty in any form, not even back-of-the-line. (Mar 2010)
• Oppose amnesty in any reform. (Feb 2010)
• Opposes granting amnesty to illegal immigrants. (Sep 2010)
• Supports full implementation of current border security laws. (Sep 2010) 

On Jobs:

• Give wage subsidies rather than raise minimum wage. (Jan 2015)
• Ok to extend unemployment if it's paid for. (Jan 2014)
• Grow the middle class; don't grow the government. (Feb 2013)
• 1984: Enthusiastic union activist during dad's strike. (Jun 2012)
• Oppose card check & Employee Free Choice Act. (Feb 2010) 

On War and Peace:
 
 

• ISIS plan: US air support for Sunni forces on the ground. (Feb 2015)
• Confront and defeat ISIL now, or we will have to do so later. (Sep 2014)
• Airstrikes in Syria and Iraq to target ISIL. (Sep 2014)
• Airstrikes to topple Syrian government are counterproductive. (Sep 2014)
• Stay involved in Iraq to fight ISIS, not for nation-building. (Jun 2014)
• Timetable in Afghanistan emboldened Taliban to wait us out. (Jan 2014)
• Lack of long-term US status in Iraq opens it for al Qaeda. (Jan 2014)
• Assist Iraqi government in fighting ISIL. (Jan 2014)
• Equip and train non-jihadist Syrians to topple Assad. (Aug 2013)
• Syria: arm rebels last year; now just work with some. (Jun 2013)
• New Iranian leader is more moderate but still supports nukes. (Jun 2013)
• Goal for Korea: denuclearize the peninsula and to unify it. (Apr 2013)
• Supports intervention in Libya & tougher sanctions on Syria. (Sep 2011)
• 2007 troop surge was the right thing to do. (Aug 2010)
• Opposes timetable for troop withdrawal from Afghanistan. (Sep 2010)
• Iranian nuclear weapons: prevention instead of containment. (May 2012)
• Sponsored shutting down Iranian foreign reserves. (May 2013) 

And there we are...

Next up:   Republican Candidate: Ben Carson 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   

Soccer...Why Answering the Door Can Lead to Obesity...and Sunday Zen

Celebrated "Talk Like A Pirate Day" yesterday...and realized it was Chris and Tina's 2nd Anniversary (as an exclusive couple).
How appropriate is that, eh? 

So began my Saturday with Nicole and Brenden and Emma who are both playing soccer this season.

And Aiden, of course.

Emma has really improved, and in addition to being an awesome goalie, can hold her own on the field as well! And those long legs come in handy...she can really move down the field when she needs to.

 Brenden...only 5...is fearless. Fierce. So happy that Nicki was able to get his very first goal on video!  He ended up scoring two for his team!

                                       (screen shot...his very first goal!)


He was so happy with himself he literally skipped all the way back to his coach for a big high five!

After the game we ended up at McDonalds  (his team sponsor)

It was a great morning!

Later Saturday night, both James and Nicole showed up- a knock on the door with chicken and bacon from their butcher. Meat for my freezer.

Then this morning, Chris knocked early to bring Cheesecake Factory Chocolate Cheesecake to go with my morning coffee.

Apparently answering the door can make you FAT.  Who knew?

~laughing~

Best Kids EVER!

 So...just a relaxing Zen Sunday. Read a bit. Sat out with the Tucker-Cat...North Patio Beach being closed for the Season. Enjoying the crispness of Fall's approach in the air and several of the trees beginning to turn orange, yellows and reds. Painted a little and played in the plants. The basil is just starting to set seeds and my Morning Glories are going to have enough to share with everyone this year. Need to lift and divide my yellow day-lilies soon, too.

Back inside tonight for some Cajun Cooking. thanks to Paula and Deanna. Dirty Rice with Cajun spices, Black beans and thin strips of both red and green Peppers.

The house smells just like New Orleans!

                                          (...where I left my heart...)

More anon...


And dinner is plated!