Think Progress

VIDEO: Reid Closes Down the Senate

By Nico Pitney on Nov 1st, 2005 at 5:26 pm

VIDEO: Reid Closes Down the Senate»

Minority Leader Harry Reid today forced the Senate into a rare, secret closed door session, threatening to delay legislative action until the Intelligence Committee followed through on its planned investigation of prewar Iraq intelligence failures.

Watch in Quicktime

Transcript below:

SEN. HARRY REID: America deserves better than this. They also deserve a searching and comprehensive investigation into how the Bush administration brought this country to war. Key questions that need to be answered include:

– How did the Bush administration assemble its case for war against Iraq? We heard what Colonel Wilkerson said.
– Who did the Bush administration officials listen to and who did they ignore?
– How did the senior administration officials manipulate or manufacture intelligence presented to the Congress and the American people?
– What was the role of the White House Iraq Group, or WHIG, a group of senior White House officials tasked with marketing the war and taking down its critics? We know what Colonel Wilkerson says.
– How did the administration coordinate its efforts to attack individuals who dared to challenge the administration’s assertions? We know what happened to them — I listed a few.
– Why has this administration failed to provide Congress with the documents that would shed light on their misconduct and the misstatements?

Unfortunately, the Senate committee that should be taking the lead in providing these answers is not. Despite the fact that the chairman of Senate Intelligence Committee publicly committed to examine these questions more than a year and a half ago, he has chosen not to keep that commitment. Despite the fact that he restated the commitment earlier this year on national television, he has still done nothing. …

Mr. President, enough time has gone by. I demand on behalf of the American people that we understand why these investigations aren’t being conducted, and in accordance with Rule 21, I now move that Senate go into closed session.

SEN. DICK DURBIN: Mr. President, I second the motion.

PRESIDING OFFICER: The motion has been made to go into closed session, and it has been seconded. The motion having been made and seconded, the Senate will go into closed session. The chair, pursuant to Rule 21, now directs the sergeant at arms to clear all galleries, close all doors of the Senate chamber, and exclude from the chamber and its immediate corridors all employees and officials of this Senate who under the rule are not eligible to attend this closed session and are not sworn to secrecy. The question is nondebatable.

UPDATE: Crooks and Liars has video of Reid’s press conference.




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198 Responses to “VIDEO: Reid Closes Down the Senate”

  1. Average TV Viewer Says:

    Do you know how ridiculous it’s going to sound when the next yahoo says “no indictment on the primary charge is a victory”????????????????????????

    I swear to god the dems planned this knowing a Rove indictment was coming!!!


  2. Zookeeper Says:

    So much for Georgie trying to distract the people from the coming Rove indictment with the bird flu speech this morning. Bird flu — BOO!
    I (heart) Harry Reid!


  3. Blue State Red Says:

    What a dumb, meaningless stunt. It sure didn’t take the Dems long to go into panic mode. Let’s review their recent bad news, shall we?

    Successful constitutional negotiations in Iraq.

    Increasing competence of Iraqi army and security forces.

    Panic letter from Zawahiri to Zarqawi.

    Successful constitutional elections in Iraq.

    U.S. economy perking right along at 3 percent or more for 30 straight months (better than Clinton’s record).

    Gas prices falling.

    Miers nomination withdrawn.

    No finding of crime or criminal conspiracy to leak Plame’s name (and Joe Wilson still a proven liar, according to the Senate Intelligence Committee).

    Libby hit with meaningless “Martha Stewart” indictment (meaningless, that is, to everyone except Libby).

    Alito nominated, unifying GOP base.

    Gang of 14 senators already saying “no filibuster.”

    It’s tough to be a Dem these days. No wonder they are reduced to throwing temper tantrums in public.


  4. Average TV Viewer Says:

    Whatever you say, BSR!


  5. Blake Says:

    Well done, Mr. Reid. This was fantastically played on the heels of the Libby indictment. Not only does it make clear the connection between the Plame leak and the Bush administration’s use of bogus intelligence in pushing Iraq on the American public, it also pulls the media away from Bush’s playing to fundamentalists on Alito.

    Thanks for uploading the video.


  6. john Says:

    Your videos never work for me, I always get this message: “-3285: Disconnected”


  7. Swingly Says:

    I’m glad the dems have finally shown some gutts!! Keeping (mostly) silent because the others have the majority has not been of any help to democracy or to a debate that is most necessary.


  8. Admin Says:

    #7 John - Sounds like it could be a firewall issue on your end. Video is working fine.



  9. WaltTheMan Says:

    #4-
    Sure sounds like a victory statement by Jeff Davis.


  10. Ryan Neat Says:

    “It’s tough to be a Dem these days. No wonder they are reduced to throwing temper tantrums in public.
    Comment by Blue State Red”

    Ironic coming from you. You and your childish friends throw temper tantrums daily here. You’d think having all branches of the federal government would be enough for republicans, but you guys are so psychotic you can’t even allow disent. You’re all such a pathetic mess. No wonder so many of you are serial killers, sex offenders and terrorists.


  11. Ryan Neat Says:

    Harry is demanding accountability for the failures of the NeoCons! But accountability and responsibility are the two traits that virtually every republican is devoid of.


  12. Levi T. Says:

    Bull Shit eR, That dopey list is so damn backwards I would not even know where to start to respond.
    Talk about panic and desperation.


  13. Marie Says:

    Have we screamed loudly enough? Have the Democrats grown a spine?
    Better late than never — I hope it’s not too late, but this is a beginning to (I hope) the end of the Bush reign.


  14. Swingly Says:

    Blue State Red is a nut case!!! Iraq is a complete disaster and you must be blind not to realize it. The US really does not deserve this… or such short-minded persons!!


  15. Ryan Neat Says:

    BSR,

    Your rant is not only littered with falsehoods, it’s just laughably stupid - just like you. You’re a propagandists dream - too stupid and lazy to do your own homework, and too desperate to believe a lie to change your own bad habits.


  16. Average TV Viewer Says:

    History will show how silly it was for someone only qualified in whisper campaigns and politics of personal destruction being put in control of our NATIONAL SECURITY.


  17. Zookeeper Says:

    What the trolls here will never understand is that we would demand accountability on an issue this important from the Democrats as well as the Republicans. They cannot say the same.


  18. Oliver Willis » Section 21 Says:

    […] >> VIDEO: Reid Closes Down the Senate >> Video of CNN’s Cafferty: We have a right to know. >> Reid’s assault on Senate GOP >> Senate Meets in Closed Door Session >> Professional smear artist Michelle Malkin calls it a temper tantrum and tries to give Democrats “advice”. Again, I say, shut the eff up. >> Glenn Reynolds compares dead soldiers in Iraq to Bill Clinton’s marital infidelity. Does the RNC pay in cash or checks, Glenn? >> Senate Democratic Leader Harry Reid’s Stock Moves Strongly Up >> According to the increasingly incoherent Jeff Goldstein, Democrats are destroying America by insisting that the Senate… do it’s job. The bastards! […]


  19. Ryan Neat Says:

    Swingly,

    BSR has consistently demostrated that he’s retarded, today is no different.


  20. Average TV Viewer Says:

    How did a powerless failure governor of TEXAS become president?????????????????????????
    The goddamn dog catcher is more powerful than the f*cking governor in Texas! AAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!


  21. Jeanne Says:

    Thank you Harry Reid. Thank you! BRAVO!


  22. Ryan Neat Says:

    The Economy Grew 4.2 Percent in 1999 — amd ot was the Fourth Consecutive Year of 4+ Percent Growth.

    This is the longest period of 4+ percent growth since the early 1960s. At the same time, America created more than 20 million new jobs since President Clinton came into office, enjoyed the lowest unemployment rate in 30 years, and the lowest underlying core rate of inflation in over 35 years.


  23. Geoff Green Says:

    Who was presiding over the Senate when Reid made his motion? My ability to recognize senators on sight is limited.


  24. Jeanne Says:

    #22
    Two words. Abortion and taxes. He led these stupid Republicans down the garden path and screwed them. The problem is, he screws us all at the same time. BSR thank you for your undying support. What a patriot.


  25. kindness Says:

    I don’t know Ryan, when bsr first showed up, he wasn’t such a putz. He was just a little “out of the republican closet”. But I will agree that our growing trollbase seems to set them all to panic mode for any given topic.

    Give ‘em hell Harry! Now, what ARE the proper etiquitte rules for filibustering anyhow? Does he have to make tea & cucumber sandwiches?


  26. thutmosis Says:

    to blue state red. Listen to your pathetic Senator Frist. All he needed were the tears. Republicans like you like to dish it out but can’t take it.

    you are just another cry baby BSR


  27. Archie's Grandson Says:

    I hereby move that Sen. Reid be henceforth known by the same name as the wife of Dances With Wolves:

    Call him Senator Harry “Stands With Fist” Reid!

    Give ‘em hell, Harry!!!


  28. Magnum DB Says:

    They’ve threatened and have been tring to do this for a year and a half. Any Republican who says this is a surprise to them is a Republican who clearly hasn’t been listening to the other side and was too busy, wrapped in his own agenda. That, or the Republican is just simply evil.


  29. Art d'Arrigo Says:

    Iraq is Great! Black is White!! George Orwell’s Animal Farm becomes reality!!

    & more soldiers killed in Iraq today…meanhile GWB calles for yet another big budget give away…this time $7 billion that will no doubt go to pharmy corps…Conservatives should be as concerned about Bush as progressives…by my estimation the current budget deficit will mean that ordinaryu middle class americans can be expected to pay an additional $187,000 in taxes over the next 25 years…and we don’t even know what the cost of the Iraqi war will be…


  30. Swingly Says:

    Ryan Neat: thanks for ellucidating - I’m new in this board.


  31. #27 Says:

    What were those guys doing there sitting on the floor? At the very end of the video you can see them stand up and walk off. Were they smoking some bud?


  32. ReidFan Says:

    If you want to thank Reid, go to GiveEmHellHarry.com


  33. Average TV Viewer Says:

    Despite what the trolls say, GOP are glad for this. It’s like going to the doctor finally.


  34. Archie's Grandson Says:

    And another thing.. If I hear one more time there’s no evidence that there was a conspiracy, that Rove did anything, the Cheney did anything wrong, etc., I’m going to go nuts! After 2 years of investigating, there is no doubt that there’s TONS of evidence of SOMETHING, but since the Special Counsel statute isn’t as gratuitous in its disclosure of findings as was the Independent Counsel statute, we don’t get to hear all of the evidence Special Prosecutor Fitzgerald found.

    We must find out the story here. This story must not be buried as yesterday’s news!


  35. Ryan Neat Says:

    Swingly,

    Welcome!

    Just so you know, the troll aliases always start by pretending to be ‘reasonable’, but they all end up spewing the same propaganda and lies eventually. The ‘pretense’ quickly disappears into the same set of crap that Hannity, Limbaugh and the rest of the professional liars spew.


  36. Blue State Red Says:

    “No wonder so many of you are serial killers, sex offenders and terrorists.”

    Typical lefty - all slime and no substance.


  37. Average TV Viewer Says:

    I didn’t see a denial there, BSR.


  38. Average TV Viewer Says:

    #37

    Like a slow motion funny car wipeout.


  39. mia Says:

    Bravo, Harry! Bravo!


  40. mighty aphrodite Says:

    Blue State Red - Have you ever noticed how Ryan throws like a girl - the poor thing “argues” like a 6 yr. old. The Democrat plan for Iraq:
    a.) tell the anti-democratic Islamofascists our timetable for leaving (they can plan REAL mayhem then).
    b.) patiently explain that the NEXT time a “leader” of a country plans the assasination of a former US President, they’ll get VERY, VERY, upset. (They won’t do anything, in the same model as Bill Clinton - but they’ll get MAD!)
    c.) explain to our closest ally in the Middle East(Israel) that they are now on their own - after all, in an effort to be “fair” many Dems now support political “freedom fighters” like Hamas.
    d.) dismantle our military - think of the savings for more welfare programs!!!!!! (Deadbeat voters support more government dole.)


  41. Average TV Viewer Says:

    ma,

    A. Check
    B. If it’s Bush
    C. Check
    D. Check


  42. Clyde the Ripper Says:

    BSR reminds me of the fellow who continuously hit himself in the head with a hammer. When asked why he responded “Because it feels so good when I stop.” And the fellow who dropped a quarter from his pocket into the porta-potty hole when he stood up. He pulled out a twenty dollar bill from has wallet and dropped it in also. When asked why he responded “Do you think I would go down there for just a quarter?” The Repugs create their own concept of reality and when faced with an obvious contradiction invent some hair-brained non-sequitor to explain their original mis-conceptions. The time has come bushco: fess up and get out or clam up and be thrown out via Leavenworth.


  43. Average TV Viewer Says:

    I’ll bet Israel has more Dem support than Neocon support, Mighty.


  44. The Northeast Dilemma Says:

    #3 - you are absolutely right. This is another act of desperation a la the Democratic Party. They have no agenda, but to make sure we lose the War on Terror and it will not stand with the American people.

    As conditions improve, troops come home, GOP witch-hunt targets are acquitted and gas falls on low demand the left will have to answer to the American people next year. What have you been up to since 2004 - peddling smear and hate. What a great agenda.


  45. Martin Ostrye Says:

    Good man, Harry.


  46. Average TV Viewer Says:

    “Atilla does not have race quotas. Hurrah”

    “I like race quota exceptions for Condi”

    “Judges should think like me”

    -Direct quotes from Mr. Northeast Dilemma.

    Did I get it right, NED?


  47. Spudge_Boy Says:

    #46

    “As conditions improve, troops come home, GOP witch-hunt targets are acquitted and gas falls on low demand the left will have to answer to the American people next year. What have you been up to since 2004 - peddling smear and hate.”

    Good one. Conditions are not improving, no matter how many times you say it.

    Troops coming home? That is what our side wants duffus.

    Your criminals will go to jail.

    Gas falls on low demand? Yeah because all you NeoCons are going to sell your big ass SUVs?

    Oh and we learned how to smear from your side of the aisle.


  48. The Northeast Dilemma Says:

    #48 - STFU. You represent everything that is wrong with liberalism today. When this blows up in your face, I fully intend to come back here and gloat.

    When Democrats burn another election because of their hate, we will point and laugh like we always do.


  49. Average TV Viewer Says:

    Wait, I got the wording wrong:

    “Alito is against race based preferences like affirmative action - like most of America is. That is a good thing.”

    “Bush can appoint Condi to VP and try to “heal” the country. The first female and black VP - major achievement”

    “he will pack the Court with judges that think like me!

    -Northeast Dilemma


  50. The Northeast Dilemma Says:

    #49 - the left-wing witch hunt is over. You will people will be exposed as the frauds you are and this will all backfire. By then, it will be too late. America will have already tuned you out.


  51. Average TV Viewer Says:

    I’m on you like stink on s*it, NED.


  52. Darth Filibustrous Says:

    Holy shit, the Dems have balls …


  53. TheOtherBear Says:

    “Increasing competence of Iraqi army and security forces.”

    Cool - since you seem to be an expert on the subject, how long before they can protect our kids from getting blown to bits?


  54. Average TV Viewer Says:

    For the record? I am:
    -Politically conservative
    -Socially liberal
    -Pro-life

    We’ll get you out of the GOP, NED.


  55. 3rdman Says:

    #50, How about addressing the facts and not simply repeating talk points over and over. Those ARE your quotes aren’t they? Getting angry when people make you look like an idiot with your own words?

    And I’m not quite sure how Democrats are more hateful than Republicans…um, I’ve yet to hear any Democrats in the past few years talk about turning large portions of the world to glass, killing minorities, killing homosexuals, advocating torture, etc.

    I guess its annoying when facts get in the way of your talking points, eh?



  56. Marie Says:

    Even more than usual, the trolls on this site are making me laugh today.


  57. The Northeast Dilemma Says:

    Marie - why would you be laughing at us? We just won a huge victory on the Supreme Court and Rove has not been indicted. Why would you be happy watching your own party implode? Why?

    #57 - You are spewing lies - Republicans do not stand for what you say you slanderous pig.



  58. mr. fireplaces Says:

    Harry Reid in 2008! I just called his office at (202) 224-3542 to thank this great senator from Nevada.


  59. Lefty Says:

    God bless the Democratic Party! Evil will not triumph, it never has. Thanks to all those (to the left of center) who post thier thoughts on this site. Go Team Blue!


  60. Average TV Viewer Says:

    THERE IT IS!!!!!!!

    The “Rove wasn’t indicted so it’s a victory” celebration of the OTHER indictment defense!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    HILARIOUS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!



  61. Average TV Viewer Says:

    YOU ARE A F*CKING MONKEY NED!!!!!!!!!!!!!
    OH MY GOD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


  62. Spudge_Boy Says:

    #52

    As I said in the other thread:

    Bring it on bitch! I will be looking for you. You won’t “crush me” you won’t do anything to me. Your words are empty threats. You are a scared little baby that is too afraid to serve in the military. As soon as you are ready let me know.


  63. NocturN Says:

    Easy on the cool-aid NED


  64. Clyde the Ripper Says:

    NED,

    Did you ever get your $20.25 back? See #44. I apologize, you and BSR all smell the same to me.


  65. WaltTheMan Says:

    Of course Repugs do not stand for anything. They just leave a trail of slime. I love pouring salt on them and watching them writhe and shrink - better yet, put a bowl of beer in the garden and let them drink themselves into oblivion.


  66. Shawn Says:

    Regardless of the outcome of legal proceedings – these senior administration officials, Mr. Rove and Mr. Libby lied to the American people personally and through the President’s official spokesperson. Now that I. Lewis Libby has been indicted for several felony crimes and Karl Rove is in legal jeopardy. What are the top ten things we learn about the issues and people at the core of President Bush’s administration?

    1. Bringing integrity back to the white house means replacing a man who embarrassed himself and his supporters with very his poor personal judgment; with a man who’s closest circle of advisers include opportunistic liars.

    2. Un-indicted liars are still worthy of important positions and trust in today’s Presidential administration.

    3. Liars are encouraged – when that behavior supports Presidential goals.

    4. Self seeking is defensible even when innocent lives are at stake.

    5. Presidential allegiance justifies duplicity and public fraud.

    6. Leadership isn’t about being right – it’s about appearing right.

    7. Our president must employ a liar on his staff; otherwise his administration will apparently collapse.

    8. The strength of the arguments for the Iraq war were so weak that the criticism posed by a single man forced a Presidential campaign to malign and discredit his conscientious dissent.

    9. Mustering all the senior advisors into the oval office; turning off the lights – and telling the leaker to leave his badge on the way out – wasn’t tried.

    10. It is hard to imagine the President calling Mr. Wilson and apologizing on behalf of his administration.


  67. FuzzFinger Says:

    Give ‘em Hell Harry.

    My only gripe would be the title of this post. Reid “closing down the Seante” is overly negative. Try “Reid Calls Secret Session, Demands GOP Accountability”. You get the idea. Don’t get me wrong, I Thinkprogress has become invaluable. Keep up the chops…


  68. Sharon Cox Says:

    Bravo to Reid, that’s 1 for the good side. Now let’s hope they all get some common sence and balls enough to finish the job. Dig up all the lies and expose them to all the public. Demand impeachment and or indict, jail and punish all the liers and thieves on any side. Clean the Senate, House and white house starting now. If not,shut everything down and go home. Frit’s the wind bag had lot’s to say, what crap he can spew when his is caught in the wringer. Any one know how the investigation against him is going.? The worst bunch in our countries history are now in office. I never thought I would see such a mess. Hope they get these guys…..Blessings


  69. Ryan Neat Says:

    Reid is a real patriot, not like the trolls and republican traitors and terrorists who prefer to murder in the name of ‘good’, and who start wars instead of actually caring to stop terrorism. Bush has no incentive to reduce terrorism, because the fear of terrorism is the only thing that got him elected. That’s also why terrorism around the world has radically increased under the bush administration.

    The morons of the right always talk about ‘fighting them there so we won’t have to fight them here’, but clearly this didn’t work in Spain or England. These retarded little irresponsible children who follow republicans off the cliff are so sad and symbolic of rightwing values. They prefer to live in delusion instead of being a responsible citizen individually or internationally. They’re truly the product of a ’spoiled’ generation.


  70. nittacci Says:

    I’m thrilled that the Democratic leadership is finally growing some balls. Harry Reid, you are a great American. It’ll be great to see some patriots finally get together to put this corrupt administration out of business.

    39%!!!!! and falling fast…


  71. themissingPproject Says:

    The Dems have grown cojones! Way to go! About time and keep it up. The emperor has no clothes…

    Vote for Resident Bush

    http://www.geocities.com/themissingPproject


  72. Average TV Viewer Says:

    The GOP staged this. They want out.


  73. jparker Says:

    The Democrat plan for Iraq:
    a.) tell the anti-democratic Islamofascists our timetable for leaving (they can plan REAL mayhem then).”

    —-Like the timetable Bush requested for Kosovo? http://www.issues2000.org/George_W__Bush_Kosovo.htm

    b.) patiently explain that the NEXT time a “leader” of a country plans the assasination of a former US President, they’ll get VERY, VERY, upset. (They won’t do anything, in the same model as Bill Clinton - but they’ll get MAD!)

    —-Let’s see- sending 23 Tomahawks into the Iraqi Intelligence Sevice in June of 1993 might be considered “nothing” compared to the wholesale invasion of a country and the loss of over 2000 troops and counting, but at $3 million a missle it seems like a bargain now.
    http://www.geocities.com/ tom_slouck/ iraq/ bush_assass_attempt_allegation.html

    “c.) explain to our closest ally in the Middle East(Israel) that they are now on their own - after all, in an effort to be “fair” many Dems now support political “freedom fighters” like Hamas.”
    —-There is absolutely no proof to either of these statements, other than the fact that Israeli hardline groups generally support Bush b/c he’s having our troops kill Arabs in the Middle East. The only “Freedom Fighter” statement made by any official was made by someone in the EU, not in the Democratic Party.

    d.) dismantle our military - think of the savings for more welfare programs!!!!!! (Deadbeat voters support more government dole.)
    —-Instead, we’ll go into debt farming out the “rebuilding” of a nation (no nation building promise of Bush?) while scaling back Veterans benefits just as thousands of soldiers need that support the most?
    http://veterans.house.gov/ democratic/ press/ 109th/ 3-17-05budget.htm

    Comments by mighty aphrodite — November 1, 2005 @ 6:22 pm

    Nice try, though….your handlers would be pleased. Too bad facts stand in the way….


  74. jbos Says:

    Alito’s in. The GOP will pull out the nuclear option. The democrats know it. What is this about? The cynic in me says positioning for the ‘06 and ‘08 elections. The optimist in me says they are fed up.


  75. Ringo Says:

    The Republicans are going to regret that huge stink they made over Clinton’s stain on Lewinsky’s dress. It’s they’re turn now, the only difference being, the Republican stain is on the entire world. They’re finally getting what’s coming to them. And to quote our fearless leader, George W. Bush, “bring it on.”


  76. Joe Sixpack Says:

    Hey, Blue State Red, how’s it hanging? Boy, we are sure lucky to have NED and aphrodite to give us a hand here. I notice it didn’t take you long to throw up all the smoke and mirrors in #3 with the half-baked facts for junior and co. And that crack about lefties being “all slime and no substance” in #38 was too much. And NED using the “slanderous pig” on 3rdman in #61 just shows how lowdown and vile us rightwingers will stoop to attack, attack, attact. Good job to both of you.

    Correct me if I’m wrong, and I hate to critize another conservative, but you and NED both sound desperate—–kinda like Dr. Frist crying on CNN about how the democrats came right out and bitch-slapped him. I mean, it really is pretty funny if you think about it, watching the silly-assed Frist and that Mississippi racist, Trent Lott, both feining outrage and indignation. I mean, the lefties here are laughing, not me, of course. BTY, what’s you take on the national polls showing they agree with the actions of the Senate democrats over showing up the repubicans on this issue?

    By the way, if you talk with aphrodite, tell her I still want to get into her pants—-I mean have a beer with her. But she better hurry, I’m thinking about putting the moves on on that bitch, NED.


  77. RunningDogLackey Says:

    …AND the Pubbies caved, AND Frist whined like a little gitl, AND Trent Lott agreed with Chris Mathews that Bush should consider retiring Rove and some of his other tainted staffmembers, AND the MSM question tonight is how badly this will affect Alito’s chances for approval.

    Not a bad afternoon’s work, Harry!


  78. JIMBO Says:

    Mighty Aphrodite, on the subject of choice D, the Bush Administration have closed down more military bases in America than any other administration in history.

    And you say that you fear that a Democratic-controlled Congress would do that? Lay off the crack pipe and wake up to reality, sister. Bush, who was too chickenhawk, like Henery Hawk, to serve his country,
    destroyed what we need in this country: military security against incoming terrorism.

    How hypocritical is your Bush Administration? How about 100,000%?


  79. JIMBO Says:

    OH, AND GIVE EM’ HELL, HARRY!


  80. Average TV Viewer Says:

    Andrea Mitchell is a whore!


  81. John Says:

    #44 Clyde, That was damn funny!


  82. JIMBO Says:

    Average TV Viewer,

    What did the whore just say moments ago?
    Don’t tell me she’s asskissing Frist again.


  83. Average TV Viewer Says:

    Mitchell

    Paraphrase: Dems weren’t concerned about legalities and reports prior to war.
    She’s correct. But that’s not why today was significant.


  84. RunningDogLackey Says:

    Mighty Aphrodite:

    You’re right! Republicans will BUILD our military might:

    “After completing 20 planes for which we have begun procurement, we will shut down further production of the B-2 bomber. We will cancel the small ICBM program. We will cease production of new warheads for our sea-based ballistic missiles. We will stop all new production of the Peacekeeper [MX] missile. And we will not purchase any more advanced cruise missiles. The reductions I have approved will save us an additional $50 billion over the next five years. By 1997 we will have cut defense by 30 percent since I took office.”

    — GHW Bush, 1992 SOTU Address

    “Overall, since I’ve been Secretary, we will have taken the five-year defense program down by well over $300 billion. That’s the peace dividend. And now we’re adding to that another $50 billion of so-called peace dividend.”

    — SECDEF Dick Cheney, 3 days later in testimony before the Senate Armed Services Committee Committee

    Cheney, in fact, pushed for the majority of military programs cuts that he later accused Kerry of voting for. Most notably, Cheney opposed the purchase of M-1 Abrams tanks, and F-14 and F-16 jet fighters.

    Feel safer, honey?


  85. Ryan Neat Says:

    Global terrorism experts say US is losing the war. Considering the republicans are in charge, of course we’re losing. The republicans have always sucked at foreign policy, this is just the latest example of their complete ineptitude.

    http://news.yahoo.com/ s/ nm/ 20051101/ pl_nm/ security_terrorism_dc


  86. Roxie Says:

    Great job, Senator Reid. Do it again tomorrow.


  87. Average TV Viewer Says:

    Yeah, Ryan.

    At the Rumsfeld press meeting today they acknowledged the INCREASE in number and severity of IEDs, while simultaneoulsy reporting decrease in injuries due to precautions….


  88. Marie Says:

    #92, In the aftermath of the Senate news today I forgot that I also saw part of Rummy’s press briefing and it was the part you mentioned. How do they do get away with that? Between Rummy and Pace, they danced around so many questions, all they lacked was the top hat and tails.


  89. Ryan Neat Says:

    ATV,

    And yet October was one of the deadliest months on history, making this conclusion from rumsfeld seem completely propagandist huh?

    Also, Iraq isn’t just the only issue. The fact is there are more folks around the world who’d like to take a pop shot at us than there was even 5 years ago thanks to the arrogant and inept policies of this administration. Bravado only works when the other guy has something to lose and can be bluffed. When the other guy feels backed in a corner, bravado only causes him to act.

    It’s always a good question whether they are just truly this stupid, or if they simply like having terrorism as an excuse to execute their destructive policies. The whole PNAC/NeoCon treatise basically says that an attack and threat on american soil would be necessary to execute their agenda - so ending that threat seems counter to their interests. It’s why a part of me believes that they want the middle east riled up at us and for them to attack us to create fervent nationalism and facism.


  90. Sharon Cox Says:

    Sadly, Ryan, I believe you are right. This bunch will create or do anything to get what they want. Total power…..Blessings


  91. Andrew G. Says:

    #3

    “Successful constitutional negotiations in Iraq…”

    Successful for whom???

    Have you read it? I tried to but couldn’t make myself go on after reading that it officially created an Islamic Republic and declared islamic law the basis for its legal code.

    The BannaRepublicans want us to think that we fought for some kind of democratic ideal in Iraq.

    How would you like to live under the new Iraqui constitution?


  92. Swingly Says:

    Yeah, Ryan, the world really loves Bush… Maybe that’s because while all the other heads-of-state at the Summit of the Americas on Friday at Argentina will have 3 bodyguards each, Bush is having 420 of them, just for starts!!! And guess who’s paying for that… Oh, yeah!! The world is a safer place….


  93. Limp Frist Says:

    Get me some smelling salts! I feel faint! That Harry Reid is such a brute!


  94. Ryan Neat Says:

    Andrew,

    Great point.

    I guess he didn’t catch the part where the Iranian supreme mullah called the iraqi constitution a divinely inspired document. Clearly reichwingers live delusionally.


  95. Limp Frist Says:

    Ms. Aphrodite,

    May I please borrow your fvck me pumps? I peed in mine today when that brute Harry Reid took me over his knee and gave me the spanking I so richly deserved. And since you are on defense and wearing your dancing shoes all the time, I thought you wouldn’t mind.


  96. Limp Frist Says:

    #48 - STFU. You represent everything that is wrong with liberalism today. When this blows up in your face, I fully intend to come back here and gloat.

    When Democrats burn another election because of their hate, we will point and laugh like we always do.

    Comment by The Northeast Dilemma

    That’s the trouble with trolls. Even after it blows up IN THEIR FACES, they still come back here and gloat. Delusional fVcks.


  97. Ryan Neat Says:

    And to remind everyone. Terrorism is WORSE because of Bush, not better.

    Global terrorism experts say US is losing the war. Considering the republicans are in charge, of course we’re losing. The republicans have always sucked at foreign policy, this is just the latest example of their complete ineptitude.

    http://news.yahoo.com/ s/ nm/ 20051101/ pl_nm/ security_terrorism_dc


  98. Average TV Viewer Says:

    You need your own blog, Ryan. Have you considered?


  99. Ryan's Agent Says:

    I am Ryan’s Agent. Talk to me. He gets a full bene package and a 6 figure salary. I get 10%.


  100. Ryan's Agent Says:

    #49 - the left-wing witch hunt is over. You will people will be exposed as the frauds you are and this will all backfire. By then, it will be too late. America will have already tuned you out.

    Comment by The Northeast Dilemma

    …. Shouted the delusional, raving lunatic as the busy progressive city dwellers tuned out his incoherent gibberish dropping coins in his cold, stale coffee as they passed him by .


  101. cynicon implant Says:

    Ryan’s Agent — hope you’re not planning on feeding your kids with the commission off Ryan’s blog… 10% of zero is zero.

    Of course, with zero income you can still suck money off those of us who actually work for a living.


  102. Rico Says:

    This is my first time here, but do you always let the trolls run the site the way they are tonight?

    You know, if you ignore the weasels, they will leave - every response feeds them. YOU are keeping them here.

    Stop acting like Democrats - ignore the trolls and take back your blog.


  103. mcd Says:

    glenn reynolds posts a reader email about what harry reid may or may not have forgotten about a certain senate intelligence committee report. i’m not sure exactly what he’s talking about.

    of course, i remember when the republican party was about smaller government, about putting individuals before government and about putting states before the federal government.

    apparently, all that has changed


  104. Ryan's Agent Says:

    Ryan’s Agent — hope you’re not planning on feeding your kids with the commission off Ryan’s blog… 10% of zero is zero.

    Of course, with zero income you can still suck money off those of us who actually work for a living.

    Comment by cynicon implant

    Listen recticon implant,

    Just because the right wing blogs suck shit out of yer mama’s ass, don’t mean the lefty blogs ain’t rolling in ad revenue. But you wouldn’t know that being a wingnut, would you?

    Liberal Blogosphere Surpasses Cable News

    Dailykos Is As Large As The Entire Conservative Blogosphere


  105. Ryan's Agent Says:

    Stop acting like Democrats - ignore the trolls and take back your blog.

    Comment by Rico

    You are a troll. You we will ignore.


  106. Ryan Neat Says:

    ATV,

    I like contributing to other blogs, but thanks for the compliment. It suits me to add my voice to the many blogs that are already thriving. I don’t feel the need to have my own monument to ego - that’s more of a republican/drudge sort of characteristic.

    And the ‘cynicon implant’ argument is really amusing. See I work because I wish to, not because I have to. Unlike republican theives, hypocrites and villains, I practice what I preach.


  107. Ryan Neat Says:

    Rico,

    Thanks for the advice, but unless you can actually assist in the matter, you are as distracting as the trolls. Either help, or shut up and get out of the way.

    And yet October was one of the deadliest months on history, making this conclusion from rumsfeld seem completely propagandist huh?

    Also, Iraq isn’t just the only issue. The fact is there are more folks around the world who’d like to take a pop shot at us than there was even 5 years ago thanks to the arrogant and inept policies of this administration. Bravado only works when the other guy has something to lose and can be bluffed. When the other guy feels backed in a corner, bravado only causes him to act.

    It’s always a good question whether they are just truly this stupid, or if they simply like having terrorism as an excuse to execute their destructive policies. The whole PNAC/NeoCon treatise basically says that an attack and threat on american soil would be necessary to execute their agenda - so ending that threat seems counter to their interests. It’s why a part of me believes that they want the middle east riled up at us and for them to attack us to create fervent nationalism and facism.


  108. Andrew G. Says:

    As Frist made his comments, Santorum stood behind him.

    Santorum will be toast in ‘06, as well as Frist and DeWine. If Texans wise up about KBHutch, who supported the failed TSA, No child left behind and the Administration’s Iraq policy, the opportunity to defeat two Repubs with seats on appropriations will be at hand.

    Unfortunately, the Dems. are defending more seats.

    In ‘08 I cannot see how Ohio, New Mexico and Florida will be maintained in the GOP Column. Repubs have seats in competitive states of Oregon, Colorado, New Hampshire and Virginia.

    But Democrat Mary Landrieu of Louisiana will fall.


  109. Ryan Neat Says:

    Andrew,

    MyDD had a nice analysis of this. The democratic seats are less vulnerable than the republican ones according to polling. There’s a chance republicans could lose up to 5 to 6 seats based on the current candidates.

    Go have a peak at their stuff if you’re interested - its on their main page.


  110. Ryan Neat Says:

    And to remind everyone why this meeting happened? A war based on lies. An occupation based on ineptitude. And what did we get for it?

    Global terrorism experts say US is losing the global war on terror. Considering the republicans are in charge, of course we’re losing. The republicans have always sucked at foreign policy, this is just the latest example of their complete ineptitude.

    http://news.yahoo.com/ s/ nm/ 20051101/ pl_nm/ security_terrorism_dc


  111. Average TV Viewer Says:

    Don’t worry, Andrew. I’ll have my anti-Hutchison campaign running in Dallas. Delay’s crap will also bring her down.


  112. The Fool Says:

    Don’y buy into the GOP/Media frame. Reid did not shut down or close the Senate, he shut the doors to the Senate chamber. Shutting down the government is what the Republicnas did in 1994. That was a much different, much more radical, and extremely unpopular move. If the public thinks Reid shut down the Senate there could be backlash.


  113. Nick Caine Says:

    So Blue State Red, you believe everything is just fine in Iraq? Nothing to worry about, and the Iraqis have never had it so good.

    Well I want you to watch this report from Channel 4 news BSR, and then tell us that everything in Iraq is just peachy. It’s a pity that it takes a British news broadcaster, to show the misery that the Iraqis citizens have to endure. Please everybody take a look at this news report, it’s heartbreaking.

    We were supposed to liberate these people, not put them through a personal hell.

    Here’s the link:

    http://www.channel4.com/ news/ special-reports/ special-reports-storypage.jsp?id=1042

    Then click on, watch the report


  114. Navy Vet Says:

    You can fool some of the people some of the time and you can fool all the people some of the time but you can’t fool all the people all the time Give the republican party enought rope and they will hang them selves.


  115. Transparent Grid » A Grand Day for Democrats Says:

    […] See Mark Shmitt’s take at TPMCafe suggesting that today amounted to a massive shift in Senate power. See the transcript and video at Think Progess. Crooks and Liars has video of Reid’s press conference, as well. Filed under: Current Affairs Comments: […]


  116. AckSyn JAckSyn Says:

    #107 is correct.
    A RAND think tank Fellow leaked a Bit of Information, the Journalist stopped him for being off topic but it was to late. It was Caught.
    RAND is planning to limit the Freedom of Speech on the Internet, his theory was that too many Concpiracy theories were abound on the Internet and that People were Buying into them.
    Alert Citizens Take note of the Little Details, we should as progressives see this coming and prepare the proper defense for the Think Tank assault on Internet Freedom of Speech. Also note the Importance of the Plame gate and “The right to every mans evidence”

    Okay heres how we must Frame our Minds, This is known as Pure Natural Logic. In numbers the answer is right or wrong, Positive or Negative, even or odd.
    This does not apply to Humanity and confuses our Normal Logic.

    Chicken or Egg?

    Which does both need and use to continue life yet both discard?

    The Shell.
    That third answer we didnt see before.
    Do you see?

    We Must also practice to remove Bias. Bias keeps us from forming proper solutions.

    Use This to your Advantage.


  117. WaltTheMan Says:

    Neocon cowards have no concept of what it is like to have a bullet pass through one’s shoulder. Still hurts after 40 years.


  118. Paul Pastrano Says:

    “If you live long enough, you’ll get to be old.” All that means is that power is a pendulum that ALWAYS swings back and forth. It’s easy to forget how long the Democrats were in power and how corrupt they became. Basically, under Gingrich power began to flow back to the Republican party. And under DeLay and Rove the swing of the pendulum has reached it’s apogee on the right side. Hopefully, under Reid, the swing back towards center, and left, will not lend itself to the intellectual bankrupty and corporate cronyism that has festered under the current majority. Even if Alito is defeated, and even if the current majority party loses power in 2006, 2008 and beyond, the bills that are currently being run up will still be due. Will the Democrats have the guts to ask the American public to pay them? And more importantly, will the citizens of an American Empire in decline, even have the ability to pay? What happens if we won’t pay, or can’t?


  119. Marc Valdez Says:

    I love you, Harry! Kick the Republican stonewallers in the teeth!


  120. WaltTheMan Says:

    The gov pays what it owes; unfortunately, it pays out of our pockets. A law stating that each administration pay its contribution to the national debt come from party funds would help to throttle the largesse of the current administration.


  121. True Blue Says:

    Just got finished emailing my Senators - telling them to help Harry Reid. (Grow balls,etc…)
    If the Dem’s finally stand up for themselves,… and of course we fellow AMERICANS… then we have a chance.

    ]Tried to call Reid’s #, but his mailbox was full.
    Everyone on this blog - regular contributor or “lurker” as I would be called because I’ve only read….(well, before now…) Google your Senators. Then email them. It doesn’t take long. Let them know you support Reid, and that they need to stand up behind him. Enough people, and it will mean the difference.
    PLEASE.
    email your Senators’. It’s quick and painless… for you.
    But the rewards will be worth it, I bet!
    Take back AMERICA!


  122. AckSyn JAckSyn Says:

    #122
    Good points.

    You can see here the Problem that faces us;
    http://budget.senate.gov/ democratic/ charts_taxcuts.html

    Bushes backloaded Tax breaks loom large when Bush has safely left Office. We should Move the tax cuts Forward and start paying it down now, or just get rid of those cuts Period.
    It was a Self -Serving tax cut anyway. In this Posters View.

    The Ecomomists here may offer better insight into the Solution.


  123. Amazed Says:

    I don’t understand all the trolls and right wing zealots that come on here and try to defend the Bush White House all the time. I mean, if they’re not oil company CEOs, and Bush cronies, what on earth do they possibly get in their continual desparation to defend Bush? Do they think that they will one day get a special medal for going on message boards and saying things like “we’re winning in Iraq” or “gas prices are falling, soon we’ll be back to .35 cents a gallon!”? Or is it just because they have no friends and delusions of power through posting insipid, delusional, factually incorrect comments on message boards, where the only people on earth will pretend to listen to them?

    I mean, come on, this is what the AOL message boards are for, for all the delusional losers on “Team Bush”.


  124. Mimi Schaeffer Says:

    Sorry guys, Rico is right.

    As I read all the frigging posts responding to #1 I could feel my temperature rising and nearly blowing a casket.

    And of course, he had to be the first post on the thread.

    He kinna reminded me of the old losers who’d run into the middle of the football field to get a shot at live TV. Or short of that, moon the spectators.

    Number One is just a blogger mooner. Looking for the attention he obviously isn’t getting from his brethren.

    Gotta say though, that guy who jumped in the middle of the field and nabbed the football, now that took “pelotas.”


  125. M. Duchamp Says:

    #107 Rico
    “…do you always let the trolls run the site the way they are tonight? You know, if you ignore the weasels, they will leave - every response feeds them. YOU are keeping them here. Stop acting like Democrats - ignore the trolls and take back your blog.”

    Here are some positive arguments for allowing “trolls” to post:

    1) By allowing the posting of divergent points of view, people get to practice and hone their arguments and debating skills.

    2) Common misconceptions and talking points can be debunked and disproved in a transparent manner. This can be a great tool for learning.

    3) By allowing anyone to post, this site proves in no uncertain terms that Progressives value open and frank discussion.

    FYI, by allowing “trolls” to post, this site is not allowing them to run things. If anything, the number of thoughtful retorts (ignoring some of the obvious and expected flames) proves otherwise.


  126. AckSyn JAckSyn Says:

    Remember you Catch more Flies with Honey!!

    When Writing Senators do not let anger affect your words, keep it calm, short, to the point, courteous and based on Information or Reports that come from legitimate sources and can be backed up.

    Canvass the Think Tank Web sites, often we have a portal to the future plans by these societies.
    Here is the List of American think Tanks;
    http://www.nira.go.jp/ ice/ nwdtt/ 2002/ idx1/ idxc1.html#United3

    Think Ahead and Leave the Republicans Behind.


  127. Rico Says:

    FYI, by allowing “trolls” to post, this site is not allowing them to run things. If anything, the number of thoughtful retorts (ignoring some of the obvious and expected flames) proves otherwise.

    Comment by M. Duchamp — November 2, 2005 @ 12:51 am

    You don’t get it, or are trying not to get it…

    I’m not talking about not letting trolls post - I’m talking about not ENGAGING them. It doesn’t matter how articulate you are - once you respond, THEY have won. You are on their playing field, and they have you talking about them, instead of using a post for something constructive and useful.

    It takes discipline, and I don’t think many of you have that - that’s fine, but just admit that you engage the trolls for YOUR own ego, and at the disregard for others on this blog.


  128. mighty aphrodite Says:

    “It’s why a part of me believes that they want the middle east riled up at us and for them to attack us to create fervent nationalism and facism.” Ryan Putz
    ****Brilliant, Putz!!! I knew you could explain all of the terrorists activities BEFORE Sept.11. As Mr. Aphrodite and I were discussing all of the terrorism, hijackings, bombings and murders during the 70’s and 80’s, I told him YOU would be able to come up with the most delusional explanation. You didn’t let me down!

    #100 - Limp Wrist - Sorry, you can’t borrow my sexy stillettos - check with Ryanne, he/she might have them.


  129. mighty aphrodite Says:

    “Feel safer, honey?
    Comment by DogLackey — November 1, 2005 @ 7:55 pm”
    ***** As long as you have Dems willing to concede and unwilling to defend our country, I feel safer knowing a Repub is ready, willing and ABLE to kick ass! But getting out to the shooting range and practicing for a while sure makes me feel better, too. Ahhhh, the smell of gun powder is almost as good as the smell of fresh coffee.


  130. SpudgeBoy Says:

    #132

    This stuff started happening long before 1970. And when I say stuff, I mean the right wing trying to stir up the Middle East. You must be very young and uneducated to think otherwise.

    It is interesting to find out that Mr. Aphrodite is just and dumb as his dumb ass wife.


  131. LeeNich Says:

    Bravo Sen. Reid. Republicans feeling the heat of a real leader who is forcing them to deal with their constitutional responsbilities and to be accountable for thier actions. Selling out our national security is unacceptable, selling out our financial stability is criminal, bowing to the fanatical religious right is unAmerican. Keep giving them HELL Harry.


  132. M. Duchamp Says:

    #131

    I’m not talking about not letting trolls post - I’m talking about not ENGAGING them. It doesn’t matter how articulate you are - once you respond, THEY have won. You are on their playing field, and they have you talking about them, instead of using a post for something constructive and useful.

    I think it’s too simplistic to state that “once you respond, THEY have won.” I will concede that this is probably the case when one responds or engages in personal attacks, but your statement does not fit every instance found here. Unfortunately, the reality of mass media is that unanswered lies get repeated and accepted as truth.

    In regards to this blog, the trolls are already on the progressives’ playing field when they come here. Debunking lies and misinformation is a constructive process and lots of people here participate in doing so. Lot’s has been learned from what started out as an apparent turd posting.

    I appreciate your sentiments, because I too would like to reduce the noise level here. But that’s the trade-off in an open forum. Democracy is a loud and often messy business.


  133. SpudgeBoy Says:

    #136

    “Unfortunately, the reality of mass media is that unanswered lies get repeated and accepted as truth.”

    “Debunking lies and misinformation is a constructive process and lots of people here participate in doing so.”

    “Democracy is a loud and often messy business.”

    Exactly.


  134. Rico Says:

    I’ll just say this, and them I’m gone - Democracy is a loud and often messy business often because we MAKE IT SO.

    And just like I don’t have to get into a discussion with anyone who is babbling in my face in public, I certainly don’t need to do it in cyberspace. And just like the whiny little brats they are, if you ignore their rants, sooner or later they get tired.

    It has worked in other blogs, but it probably asks for more thought and coordiation than those that post here are capable of.

    I’ll go back to other blogs, where they don’t leave a red carpet out for those who want to disrupt.


  135. SpudgeBoy Says:

    #133

    Anybody else notice that Mighty Aphrodite’s postings have completely changed? They sound a lot like old I-Right-I. Unless drugs are involved.

    What is with this:

    ******

    MA never did that before.

    Weird.


  136. M. Duchamp Says:

    #132
    “I knew you could explain all of the terrorists activities BEFORE Sept.11. As Mr. Aphrodite and I were discussing all of the terrorism, hijackings, bombings and murders during the 70’s and 80’s, I told him YOU would be able to come up with the most delusional explanation. You didn’t let me down!”

    I hope that you and Mr. Aphrodite, in your discussion, also talked about the fact that the number of terrorist attacks across the globe tripled in 2004


  137. SpudgeBoy Says:

    #138

    Are you serious?

    You want us to be quiet?

    Wrong site.

    “We’re mad as hell and we’re not going to take it anymore!”


  138. M. Duchamp Says:

    #138
    Before you leave forever, would you care to list a couple of those blogs? I have an interest in seeing how a clean and orderly democracy works (seriously).


  139. FruitcakeLiberals Says:

    Nothing the Liberals and Far-Left loons can do… Well, maybe they CAN cry and whine, and temporarily shut down the Senate for a few hours — but the Republicans still control the House and the Senate, the Executive Branch and soon our Supreme Court will be Conservative :O) Try pulling that ACLU liberal cr*p, when the HIGHEST COURT IN THE LAND IS CONSERVATIVE FOR THE NEXT 30 years!!! :O)

    Can’t wait to see the nuclear option invoked, after the Dem’s fillibuster Alito… Then you’re REALLY hear some whining and crying!!!

    Then you’ll start hearing all the fantasies about the ‘06 mid-term elections… Bottom line is though, the Dem’s don’t know HOW to win elections, and with a moron like Howard Dean at the helm, the Repubs will remain in power of the Congress — MARK IT DOWN!!!

    And wait until we start kicking Syria’s butt and then soon after Iran’s… Then you’ll really hear em whine and cry some more!!!

    God bless America!! THE GREATEST COUNTRY ON THE PLANET!!! Don’t like it?? Leave…


  140. SpudgeBoy Says:

    #143

    “Can’t wait to see the nuclear option invoked”

    You are not up to date on your NeoCOn talking points, so let me help you out.

    Currently the republican party has changed the term “nuclear option” to “Constitutional option.”

    This has been a helpful hand from your local talking point distributor.


  141. Rico Says:

    Comment by M. Duchamp — November 2, 2005 @ 2:15 am

    I think Daily Kos is a great example - yes, they can ban trolls, but (believe it or not) one of the most creative ways of shutting up a troll I’ve seen there is to post recipies as replies!

    It helps put their blabbering in perspective, they don’t like to be made fun of or dismissed, and the recipies are usually pretty good!

    I apologize if I came off brusk, but I was really dissapointed in how many replies to the troll there were on this thread - do you realize that in the 138 comments tonight, over 40 were responding to trolls? and do you know how many troll posts you had? 7. That’s almost six of you responding to each troll post that is the intellectual equivalent of farting in your face.

    Believe me - just let them post into cyberspace one thread, and you’ll be amazed how quickly they quit. Or take their original post, and attach a Progressive website, blog, or call to action - make them realize that each post they make is making you focus on what YOU need to do to initiate YOUR own agenda.


  142. M. Duchamp Says:

    #145
    Yeah, Kos has some good threads, as do Brad’s Blog, the Huffington Post and Hullabaloo.

    I imagine it could be somewhat of a let down coming here, expecting The Center for American Progress’ blog to be filled with well reasoned arguments, only to find a verbal mosh pit. Most people who post comments here, do so to vent rather than discuss. Think Progress is definately a different animal. I usually only read the parent posts (which are pretty good) and ignore the comment threads. Every now and then I dive in for the hell of it.

    As for good recipes, my girlfriend swears by this site. ;)


  143. SpudgeBoy Says:

    Sorry guys, ranting here is how I keep from strangling republicans on the street at random. You could say that blowing off some willing trolls is a way for me to keep my sanity in RL.

    And as Ryan points out, to both of you guys that are new here, if we do not shed light on their lies and let them continue to post false information, without addressing it, the false information remains with no truth shed onit..


  144. M. Duchamp Says:

    #150
    No need to apologize. I’m sure there are some folks here who would encourage you to cut loose on your next stroll… .

    You and Ryan Neat do some serious smack downs at times, but you both tend to stick to the facts when you make your points. I respect that. As my mom (a print journalist) told me growing up, “the truth can never be rude.” Besides, no one really has a right to tell anyone else what they can and can’t talk about. While I’d like less noise here (because there are some people who do make good points), I would never sacrifice free speech for it.

    I tend to agree with Ryan in that the whole point of this site is to have an uncensored (and independent) venue for discussion. The fact that most threads contain a hefty number of flames and digressions actually mirrors the real world: kind of scary, when you think about it.


  145. thot's Says:

    Keep giving them hell ,damn I hope they do it every day and shut down the government! umm the quasi government that is….

    bill frist that was funny …….


  146. tomaig Says:

    “You could say that blowing off some willing trolls is a way for me to keep my sanity in RL.”

    “…blowing off some willing trolls…”

    Let’s leave your bathhouse adventures out of this, OK?


  147. Andrew Says:

    Just look at RedState.org! They ban anyone who they determine is a “Moby” which I guess is a code word for anyone who’s not an ultra rightwing fascist gun toating hate monger. They call them “purges” and “sweeps”. It sounds EXACTLY LIKE NAZI GERMANY.

    Thank you TP for letting the trolls post there fetid diatribes here and not forming squads of storm troopers to weed out the herd. If the progressive community were to resort to such tactics we would be sinking to their level. (P.S. It stinks at their level)


  148. AckSyn JAckSyn Says:

    After A little further reading and some thoughtful thunk by others, here, I am still new, I tend to agree with Ryan and Duchamp about allowing the trolls to post, Rico had a point that we should put forth more Ideas.
    As we can see Debate Works, but only if those admit to accepting others Ideas as well.

    I stand Corrected in this Regard and accept “trolls” not only for amusement, but for Freeper ‘thunk’ and of course the ritual abuse we get to inflict. =)

    Please Stick Around NED, I think I love Yewww!!


  149. AckSyn JAckSyn Says:

    Up Early today heard the Rants…

    Was it a Political Stunt?. Yes it was.
    Did it work?. Yes it did.

    Are the Republicans Angry, of course!
    Being the Blatant Hypocrites they are.


  150. Alex Dorph Says:

    Well I am glad they are doing this, but I have to wonder if it is just a power grab. If the dems (the ones on my side, or so they say) had any guts, or any honor, they would never have voted for Iraq in the first place and would have done all this right away. They are so spineless, always worried about their own and not about the nation.

    High Power Rocketry
    Bathroom Review


  151. Average TV Viewer Says:

    I have actually had the webmaster for redstate email me with threats. They did this in retaliation for an email I sent to one of their guest writers.


  152. Average TV Viewer Says:

    redstate operates the same way a bush town hall meeting does. Arm twisting and gags and abuse of police power.